KR102442974B1 - Washing machine and its operating method - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed are a washing machine and a washing method thereof. A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a washing tub; a touch screen that outputs a graphic object corresponding to a laundry-related function that can be executed by the washing tub; a communication unit communicating with a server providing weather information; and a controller for requesting updated weather information from the server in response to an input of a laundry start command, and calculating a laundry index indicating washing suitability based on the updated weather information. The controller sets the washing course of the washing tub based on the calculated washing index, updated weather information, and the user's washing pattern, and controls the touch screen to output an option screen for performing washing in the set washing course.

Description

Washing machine and operation method of washing machine {WASHING MACHINE AND ITS OPERATING METHOD}

The present invention relates to a washing machine having a touch screen capable of displaying visual information and a method of operating the washing machine.

A washing machine includes a device for washing clothes and a device for washing and drying clothes together. Washing clothes is a process of removing contaminants attached to the laundry through the action of water and detergent, and drying clothes is a process of removing moisture contained in clothes through, for example, a hot air supply device.

A general washing machine includes a main body having a clothes inlet, a clothes accommodating part provided inside the main body, a driving unit rotating a drum constituting the clothes accommodating part, a door configured to open and close the clothes inlet, and visual information related to an operation processed by the washing machine. and a control unit that displays and receives a user's operation.

In such a general washing machine, the door is designed to open and close the clothes inlet and perform the original function of looking into the clothes accommodating part. In addition, the control unit is generally provided in the main body, and a plurality of buttons or knobs for briefly displaying only a predetermined stroke in an on/off method, etc. and manipulating it are provided. This dichotomy between the door and the control unit hindered the simple appearance of the washing machine, and the input and output interface between the washing machine and the user had no choice but to remain in a low-dimensional manner.

Accordingly, recently, research on locating the control unit on the door and implementing the control unit as a touch screen has been actively conducted. However, even when implemented with a touch screen, only functions corresponding to a predetermined washing course are provided, so that the user has to manually manipulate individual washing processes according to the user's taste or weather conditions.

Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine and an operating method of the washing machine that can perform washing with an optimal washing course in consideration of current weather conditions and usual washing patterns, even if a user does not operate individual operations.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine and a method of operating the washing machine by a user in which interaction between the washing machine and the user is further improved by providing a user interface environment using a touch.

Accordingly, a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention for solving the above problems, a washing tub; a touch screen that outputs a graphic object corresponding to a laundry-related function that can be executed by the washing tub; a communication unit communicating with a server providing weather information; and a controller for requesting updated weather information from the server in response to an input of a laundry start command, and calculating a laundry index indicating washing suitability based on the updated weather information. In addition, the control unit sets the washing course of the washing tub based on the washing index, the updated weather information, and a user's washing pattern, and outputs an option screen for performing washing in the set washing course. characterized in that it controls.

Further, in an embodiment, a first graphic object informing of detailed administrative information of a set laundry course and a second graphic object corresponding to the laundry index are displayed on the option screen.

Also, in one embodiment, a memory for storing user's laundry pattern information is included, and the control unit calls the laundry pattern information stored in the memory in response to the laundry start command, and includes the updated weather information and the laundry It is characterized in that the detailed operation included in the washing pattern information is adjusted based on the index.

Further, in an embodiment, visual information informing of an adjusted detailed operation among the detailed operations of the washing pattern information is displayed on the option screen.

Also, in an embodiment, the controller collects the weather information and the washing pattern, and controls the display unit to output a predetermined image during a waiting time for setting a washing course.

Further, in one embodiment, in response to a touch input applied to the second graphic object of the option screen, the option screen is characterized in that the screen information informing the updated weather information and the laundry index.

In addition, in one embodiment, an indicator for confirming the history of laundry index and weather information for a predetermined period is displayed on the screen information, and the laundry index and weather information of a selected date based on a touch input applied to the indicator are displayed. It is characterized in that provided on the touch screen.

In addition, in one embodiment, when a touch input is applied to the image of the laundry index of the selected date, it is characterized in that the detailed operation of the laundry course set on the corresponding date is displayed around the image.

Also, in one embodiment, a function icon for receiving the input of the washing start command is output on the touch screen, and while a touch is applied to the function icon, calculated based on the updated weather information or the server The laundry index information received from the is popped up on one area of the touch screen, and when the touch applied to the function icon is released, the pop-up information on the laundry index disappears.

In addition, in one embodiment, the information indicating the washing index is characterized in that it is continuously displayed in a predetermined area while the touch screen is in an active state.

In addition, in one embodiment, a door configured to open and close the clothes inlet of the washing tub; and a sensor for detecting opening and closing of the door, wherein the control unit receives weather information updated through the communication unit according to the input of the washing start command, and in response to detecting the opening and closing of the door, the reception It is characterized in that the touch screen is controlled so that the laundry index corresponding to the weather information is displayed.

In addition, in one embodiment, when the laundry suitability of the displayed laundry index is less than a threshold level, it characterized in that it further comprises a sound output unit for outputting a predetermined notification sound.

In addition, in one embodiment, when the washing is completed in the set washing course, the control unit requests updated weather information from the server to recalculate the washing index, and to set a drying cycle based on the recalculated washing index characterized in that

Further, in one embodiment, the washing machine includes a door configured to open and close the clothes inlet of the washing tub; and a sensor detecting opening and closing of the door, wherein the control unit activates the touch screen in response to detecting the opening of the door after washing is completed, and performs the set drying cycle on the touch screen It is characterized in that it controls to output the drying option screen.

Further, in an embodiment, the controller requests the updated weather information from the server at a reference time interval after washing is complete until the door is detected to recalculate the laundry index.

Further, in one embodiment, detailed administrative information of a set washing course is displayed on the option screen, and the controller is configured to maintain the option screen based on a touch input applied to the detailed administrative information while maintaining the set washing course information. It is characterized by changing individual administrative courses.

Also, in one embodiment, the control unit updates the washing pattern of the user based on the washing course changed according to the operation of the individual administrative course, and stores the changed washing course as the optimum washing course corresponding to the washing index. characterized.

In addition, a washing method of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is an operating method of a washing machine including a touch screen, comprising: requesting an update of weather information from a connected server when a washing start command is input; calculating a laundry index indicating washing suitability based on the updated weather information; setting a laundry course based on the calculated laundry index, the updated weather information, and a user's laundry pattern; and displaying an option screen for performing washing in the set washing course on the touch screen.

According to the washing machine and the operating method of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, when only a washing start command is input, current weather information and usage patterns are collected and analyzed to automatically set an optimal washing course. Accordingly, the user's need to add or change individual strokes of the laundry course according to the current weather conditions, respectively, is eliminated.

In addition, since the optimal washing course is made based on the analysis of the existing user's washing pattern, the user's taste can be satisfied at the same time.

In addition, by providing visual information that can intuit the laundry index, it helps the user to decide whether to proceed with the laundry and whether to change the administration. In addition, even after washing is completed, more reliable washing is performed by providing a screen so that an optimal drying cycle can be performed based on the latest weather information.

In addition, even after the optimal washing course is set, desired individual steps can be changed easily and quickly with convenient touch operation, and information can be intuitively recognized through color expression on the touch screen, providing user convenience.

1A is a perspective view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
1B and 1C are conceptual views illustrating a state in which a door of a washing machine is rotated according to an embodiment of the present invention.
1D is another exemplary perspective view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the door shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C ;
3 is an exemplary block diagram for explaining the configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
4 is a representative flowchart for explaining the operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
5 is an exemplary conceptual diagram for describing the operation of FIG. 4 in detail.
6A, 6B, and 6C are conceptual views illustrating examples of various screen changes related to the washing index in a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
7 is an exemplary flowchart for explaining another operation of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
8 is an exemplary conceptual diagram for describing the operation of FIG. 7 in detail.
9A, 9B, and 9C are conceptual views illustrating various examples related to a time point of providing a laundry index on a screen in a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
10 is an exemplary flowchart for explaining another operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, a washing machine according to the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various elements, but the elements are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

Even in different embodiments, the same or similar reference numerals are assigned to the same or similar components as in the previous embodiment, and overlapping descriptions thereof will be omitted.

In describing the embodiments disclosed in the present specification, if it is determined that detailed descriptions of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in the present specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The accompanying drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in the present specification, and the technical spirit disclosed in the present specification is not limited by the accompanying drawings, and all changes and equivalents included in the spirit and scope of the present invention It should be understood to include water or substitutes.

1A is a perspective view showing a washing machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 1B and 1C are the first and second rotations of the door 120 shown in FIG. 1A, respectively, so that the clothes inlet 165 is opened. These are conceptual diagrams showing an open state.

Referring to the drawings, the washing machine 100 includes a body 110 and a door 120 .

The main body 110 forms the outer shape of the washing machine 100 and includes a clothes inlet 165 into which clothes are put. In this embodiment, it is shown that the clothes inlet 165 is formed in the front part of the body 110 having a hexahedron shape.

Inside the main body 110 , a clothes receiving part for receiving laundry is provided through the clothes inlet 165 . The clothes receiving unit may be referred to as a 'washing tub'.

For example, when the washing machine 100 of the present invention is configured as a device for drying laundry, the clothes receiving unit may be configured as a drum 150 rotatably provided inside the main body 110 .

As another example, when the washing machine 100 of the present invention is configured as a device capable of both washing and drying laundry, the clothes receiving unit includes a tub (not shown) that is provided inside the main body 110 to store washing water, and the The drum 150 is rotatably provided inside the tub to accommodate laundry.

The main body 110 is provided with a driving unit (not shown) configured to rotate the drum 150 . The driving unit may include a motor generating a driving force and a belt rotating the drum 150 using the driving force.

A detergent supply unit (not shown) may be installed in the main body 110 to be drawn out and drawn in in a drawer type. The cover 112 covering the detergent supply unit may be configured to be rotatable in the vertical direction.

The main body 110 may be provided with a power button 170 to turn on/off the power of the washing machine 100 . When the touch screen 122 to be described later is configured as a touch screen, it may be configured to turn on/off the power of the washing machine 100 through a touch input to the touch screen 122 . In this case, since the power button 170 is not provided, a simpler appearance can be realized.

The door 120 is rotatably installed with respect to the main body 110 by the hinge unit 140 to open and close the clothes inlet 165 . As illustrated, the main body 110 may include a door receiving unit 160 that is recessed inward from the outer surface and has a clothing inlet 165 therein. In a state in which the door 120 is closed, the door 120 is accommodated in the door accommodating part 160, and the outer edge portion of the door 120 is disposed to be flush with the outer surface of the main body 110 adjacent thereto. can

As such, in order to prevent the door 120 from being caught in the body 110 when the door 120 is opened due to the structure in which the door 120 is accommodated in the door accommodating part 160 , the hinge unit 140 includes two different hinge units. It may have a double hinge structure having a rotation axis. In this case, as shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C , after the door 120 is spaced apart from the door accommodating part 160 by the first rotation about one of the rotation shafts, the second rotation about the other rotation shaft is performed. The door 120 may be configured to be rotated by

In the structure in which the hinge unit 140 is mounted on one side of the door 120 , a locking device for fixing or releasing the door 120 to the body 110 is provided on the other side of the door 120 . The locking device is configured in a pressing type, so that the door 120 is locked when the other side of the door 120 is pressed once, and the door 120 is unlocked when the other side of the door 120 is pressed once again.

The door 120 is provided with a window 121 and a touch screen 122 .

In a state in which the door 120 is closed, the window 121 is disposed to correspond to the clothes inlet 165 so as to be able to see into the clothes accommodating part. Accordingly, the user may check the state of the clothes accommodated in the clothes accommodating unit through the window 121 .

The touch screen 122 displays (outputs) information processed by the washing machine 100 . For example, the touch screen 122 may display information on execution screens of operations (washing, spin-drying, drying, etc.) driven by the washing machine 100, or a UI (User Interface) or GUI (Graphic User) corresponding to the execution screen information. Interface) information can be displayed.

Although the touch screen 122 is illustrated as being provided on the door 120 , the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the touch screen 122 may be provided in any position on the upper part, the side surface, or the lower part of the body, and may be provided in a plurality of positions.

Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 1D , the washing machine 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention may have a structure including an auxiliary washing machine at a lower portion or one side of the main body 110 . The washing machine 100 of FIG. 1D may include a first cabinet 110 forming an outer shape of the main washing machine and a second cabinet 310 forming an outer shape of the auxiliary washing machine. In this case, the first cabinet 110 and the second cabinet 310 may be integrally formed.

In addition, the auxiliary washing machine may exist in various forms. For example, it may be formed as a top-loading type washing machine or may have the same structure as the main washing machine or have a different structure. In addition, the auxiliary washing machine may be configured such that at least one of washing capacity, volume, and height is smaller than that of the main washing machine. Accordingly, the user can selectively use at least one of the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine appropriately according to the amount of laundry. In addition, the user may select at least one of the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine according to the type of laundry.

In addition, the auxiliary washing machine is provided with a second cabinet 310 forming an exterior, a drawer housing that can be drawn into or drawn out from the second cabinet 310 , and the inside of the drawer housing. A second washing tub may be provided. In this case, the drawer housing may be drawn into or drawn out from the second cabinet 310 through an opening formed in the second cabinet 310 toward the front of the auxiliary washing machine.

In addition, a cover panel 331 may be installed in front of the drawer housing. The cover panel 331 may be integrally formed with the drawer housing. In addition, the cover panel 331 may be formed with a handle for drawing in and taking out the drawer housing. In addition, a control panel for operating the auxiliary washing machine may be provided on the upper surface of the cover panel 331 .

Hereinafter, a detailed structure of the door 120 will be described. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the door 120 shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C .

Referring to FIG. 2 , the door 120 includes a door frame 130 , a door window 136 , a display module 128 , and a door cover 190 . As described above, the hinge unit 140 for coupling with the body 110 is mounted on the door 120 , but the hinge unit 140 is omitted in this figure.

In this embodiment, it is shown that the door 120 is formed in a circular shape (including a garden shape and an oval shape). However, the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto. The door 120 may be formed in a polygon (square, hexagon, etc.).

The door frame 130 is rotatably coupled to the body 110 , and for this, the hinge unit 140 is coupled to the door frame 130 and the body 110 , respectively.

As illustrated, the door frame 130 may include an outer frame 131 and an inner frame 132 . The outer frame 131 and the inner frame 132 may be formed of a synthetic resin material (eg, ABS material, PC material, etc.).

For reference, the reason that the above components are referred to as the outer frame 131 and the inner frame 132 is that when only the door frame 130 itself is viewed while the door 120 is closed, the outer frame 131 is the main body ( This is because the inner frame 132 faces the inside of the body 110 while facing the outside of the 110 . Without this distinction, the outer frame 131 and the inner frame 132 may be referred to as first and second frames, respectively.

The door frame 130 has a first opening 130a facing the clothes inlet 165 when the door 120 is closed and a second opening 131b corresponding to the display module 128 mounted therein. do. Since the door window 136 is installed in the first opening 130a, the first opening 130a may also be referred to as a door window hole, and the display module 128 is mounted in the second opening 131b. The second opening 131b may also be referred to as a display hole. The second opening 131b may be located on the first opening 130a.

The first opening 130a may include a front opening 131a formed in the outer frame 131 and a rear opening 132a formed in the inner frame 132 . The second opening 131b is formed in the outer frame 131 . A communication portion 132b may be formed on the rear opening 132a of the inner frame 132 , and the display module 128 may be mounted inside the door frame 130 through the communication portion 132b.

The door window 136 is installed in the door frame 130 to correspond to the first opening 130a. The door window 136 is formed of a light-transmitting material (glass, synthetic resin, etc.), and is disposed to correspond to the clothes inlet 160a when the door 120 is closed.

The display module 128 is installed inside the door frame 130 . The display module 128 is disposed to correspond to the second opening 131b , and the touch screen 122 provided in the display module 128 is configured to output visual information related to information processed by the washing machine 100 .

A door cover 190 forming an exterior of the door 120 is coupled to the door frame 130 . The door cover 190 may be formed of a light-transmitting glass material or a synthetic resin material.

The door cover 190 includes a non-transmissive area 193 and a first light-transmitting area 191 corresponding to the first opening 130a and a second corresponding to the second opening 131b in the non-transmissive area 193 . and a light-transmitting area 192 . The first and second light-transmitting areas 191 and 192 are partitioned from each other by the non-transmissive area 193 . In this embodiment, the door frame 130 and the door cover 190 are formed in a circular shape to correspond to the circular door 120, and the first and second light-transmitting areas 191, 192) is shown to be formed in a circle.

According to the present invention, a non-transmissive area and first and second light-transmitting areas separated from each other in the non-transmissive area are formed on the door cover, and a window and a display (or a touch screen) are formed in the first and second light-transmitting areas, respectively. ), a simple door appearance can be implemented. In particular, when the first and second light-transmitting areas are formed in a circular shape to correspond to the circular door, a unified aesthetic feeling can be provided to the user.

The door cover 190 may be formed in a curved shape in at least one portion. For example, the first cover part and the second cover part on both sides of the bending part may be formed to be inclined with respect to each other by the bent bending part. Here, the first cover part and the second cover part are formed in a flat shape. To correspond to the door cover 190 , the door frame 130 may also be formed in a curved shape at least partially.

In this embodiment, it is shown that the first light-transmitting area 191 is formed over the first cover part and the bending part, and the second light-transmitting area 192 is formed on the second cover part.

Meanwhile, the second light-transmitting area 192 is formed to have a smaller size than the second opening 131b , and is disposed to overlap within the second opening 131b when the door cover 190 is coupled to the door frame 130 .

As illustrated, the second opening 131b is formed in a rectangular shape corresponding to the rectangular display module 128 , and the second light-transmitting area 192 has a circular shape disposed to overlap within the second opening 131b. can be formed. With the above configuration, visual information is output only to a portion corresponding to the circular second light-transmitting area 192 , and the circular touch screen 122 can be provided to the user.

A circular display is generally more expensive than a widely used rectangular display, and it is difficult to obtain an accurate installation position due to its shape, so assembly defects may occur frequently. However, according to the structure, the user can be provided with the touch screen 122 having a circular appearance while using a rectangular display that has a lower cost and can be assembled at an accurate position.

Since the second light-transmitting area 192 is surrounded by the non-transmissive area 193 , visual information output from a portion of the touch screen 122 that does not correspond to the second light-transmitting area 192 is not visible to the user. In consideration of this, visual information may not be output to a portion of the touch screen 122 that does not correspond to the second light-transmitting area 192 .

For example, in a state in which visual information related to information processed in the washing machine 100 is output to a portion of the touch screen 122 corresponding to the second light-transmitting area 192 , the second light-transmitting area 192 is not An outer image surrounding the visual information may be output to the portion. The outer image is a portion that does not correspond to the second light-transmitting area 192 and may be filled with a color (eg, black) of a specific series.

As another example, in a state in which visual information related to information processed by the washing machine 100 is output to a portion of the touch screen 122 corresponding to the second light-transmitting area 192 , it does not correspond to the second light-transmitting area 192 . The part to be turned off may be configured to be off. That is, in the portion of the display module 128 that does not correspond to the second light-transmitting area 192 , neither visual information nor an outer image is output. In this example, since only a part of the touch screen 122 is driven, compared to the previous example in which the entire touch screen 122 is driven, the touch screen 122 can be efficiently driven, thereby obtaining a power saving effect.

The touch screen 122 formed on the door cover 190 may form a mutual layer structure with a touch sensor (not shown) or be integrally formed, thereby implementing the touch screen 122 . The touch screen 122 may function as a user input unit providing an input interface between the washing machine 100 and a user, and may provide an output interface between the washing machine 100 and a user. For example, selection and change of an operation mode for performing washing, spin-drying, etc. may be implemented by a user's touch input (or touch) on the touch screen 122 .

The touch screen 122 is provided with a touch sensor in order to sense a touch input.

The touch sensor senses a touch input applied to the touch screen 122 by using at least one of various touch methods such as a resistive method, a capacitive method, an infrared method, an ultrasonic method, and a magnetic field method.

As an example, the touch sensor may be configured to convert a change in pressure applied to a specific part of the touch screen 122 or a change in capacitance occurring in a specific part of the touch screen 122 into an electrical input signal. The touch sensor may be configured to detect a position, an area, and a pressure at the time of a touch where a touch object applying a touch on the touch screen 122 is touched on the touch screen 122 . Here, the touch object is an object that applies a touch to the touch screen 122 , and may be, for example, a finger, a touch pen, a stylus pen, a pointer, or the like.

As such, when there is a touch input to the touch screen 122 , a signal(s) corresponding thereto is sent to the controller. The controller processes the signal(s) and then transmits the corresponding data to the controller 180 (FIG. 3). Accordingly, the controller 180 can know which area of the touch screen 122 has been touched, and the like. Here, the controller may be configured separately from the controller 180 , or the controller 180 may be itself.

Meanwhile, the controller 180 may perform different controls or may perform the same control according to the type of the touch object that touches the touch screen 122 . Whether to perform different control or the same control according to the type of the touch object may be determined according to an operating state of the washing machine 100 or a running application program.

Touch screen 122 is a short (or tap) touch (short touch), long touch (long touch), multi touch (multi touch), drag touch (drag touch), flick touch (flick touch), pinch-in touch Various types of touch, such as a pinch-in touch, a pinch-out touch, a swype touch, and a hovering touch, may be sensed.

The touch screen 122 is configured to sense a touch input to the sensing area including the second light-transmitting area 192 .

In this embodiment, the touch screen 122 is attached to the rear surface of the door cover 190 to cover the second light-transmitting area 192 and a part of the non-transmissive area 193 surrounding the second light-transmitting area 192 . is foreshadowing According to the above configuration, the touch sensing area of the touch screen 122 includes not only the second light-transmitting area 192 but also a part of the non-transmissive area 193 surrounding the second light-transmitting area 192 . Accordingly, various UIs or GUIs using a portion of the non-transmissive area 193 surrounding the second light-transmitting area 192 may be provided.

In the above structure, the touch sensor may be formed in the form of a touch film having a touch pattern and disposed between the door cover 190 and the display module 128 . The touch film is composed of a transparent conductive film, and a known ITO film (Indium-Tin Oxide film), CNT film (Carbon Nano Tube film), etc. may be used as the touch film.

The touch film may consist of one or two layers. For example, in the case of a method in which the touch film is composed of two layers [GFF (Glass-Film-Film)], the touch film may be attached to the rear surface of the door cover 190 or attached to the display module 128. . As another example, in the case of a method in which the touch film is composed of one layer [G1F (Glass-Film)], the touch film is attached to the rear surface of the door cover 190 to be integrally formed with the door cover 190. .

The touch sensor may be formed in a form in which a metal wire is directly patterned on the rear surface of the door cover 190 without a separate touch film.

Alternatively, the touch sensor may be integrally formed with the display provided in the display module 128 . For example, the touch sensor may be disposed on a substrate of the display (on-cell) or provided inside the display (in-cell).

Meanwhile, the present invention can be applied not only to the case where the touch screen 122 is provided in the door 120 , but also to the case where the touch screen 122 is disposed at a location other than the door 120 . For example, the touch screen 122 may be provided on one surface of the main body 110 , and the one surface may correspond to a surface on which the power button 170 is disposed on the main body 110 . However, for convenience of explanation, a case in which the touch screen 122 is provided on the door 120 will be described as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

3 is an exemplary block diagram for explaining the detailed configuration of the washing machine 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention described above.

As shown in FIG. 3 , the washing machine 100 includes a control unit 180 , a communication unit 155 , a sound output unit 125 , a sensor unit 145 , and a memory 195 in addition to the touch screen 122 described above. may include more. In addition, the washing machine 100 may perform wireless communication with the server 200 through the communication unit 155 , and may receive weather information transmitted from the server 200 according to a request of the washing machine 100 .

Specifically, the communication unit 155 is a wireless LAN (WLAN), Wireless-Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) Direct, Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA), Wireless Broadband (WiBro), World Interoperability (WiMAX) for Microwave Access), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A), etc. 200) and data transmission/reception is possible. For example, the washing machine 100 may request transmission of weather information to the server 200 connected through Wi-Fi, and the server 200 may transmit the updated weather information to the washing machine 100 in response thereto. can

Here, the server 200 may be a smart server that collects big data including weather information, or an electronic device capable of providing weather information, for example, a user terminal. In addition, the user terminal may include, for example, a smart phone, a tablet, a notebook computer, an ultrabook, a wearable device, a watch type terminal, and the like.

In addition, the communication unit 155 is Bluetooth (Bluetooth™), RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), infrared communication (Infrared Data Association; IrDA), UWB (Ultra Wideband), ZigBee, NFC (Near Field Communication), Wi-Fi (Wireless) -Fidelity), Wi-Fi Direct, and at least one of Wireless USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus) technologies may be used to support short-distance communication. For example, in response to the proximity of the user terminal registered to the washing machine 100, the washing machine 100 and the user terminal may perform wireless data communication using Bluetooth communication.

The controller 180 controls overall operations related to driving of the washing machine 100 . In addition, it is possible to control the operation of each component provided in the washing machine 100, and to process signals generated therefrom.

The sound output unit 125 may be configured to output a predetermined notification sound or voice when an event related to washing occurs. Here, the event related to washing may mean connection with an external device, power on/off, washing course setting, setting/change of individual steps such as rinsing, spin-drying, and drying, washing start, washing completion, etc. .

The sensor unit 145 may include one or more sensors for sensing at least one of information in the washing machine 100 , surrounding environment information surrounding the washing machine 100 , and user information. For example, the sensor unit 145 may include a sensor configured to detect opening and closing of the door 120 , and such a sensor may be disposed at one side of the door 120 or the hinge unit 140 . Also, the sensor unit 145 may sense that the user approaches the washing machine 100 through a proximity sensor.

The memory 195 may store laundry related programs and information related to operations. The memory 195 is, for example, a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a solid state disk type (SSD), a silicon disk drive type (SDD), and a multimedia card micro type. (multimedia card micro type), card type memory (such as SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), EEPROM The storage medium may include at least one type of (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk.

The washing machine 100 according to the present invention may be connected to a server that provides weather information through wireless communication, which may hereinafter be referred to as a 'smart server'. In addition, when an input of a washing start command is received, it may request to transmit updated weather information from the connected server 200 .

When the updated weather information is received, the washing machine 100 according to the present invention determines the washing suitability based on this, and based on the determined washing suitability, the received weather information, and the user's washing pattern stored in the memory 195 . You can set the optimal washing course. Then, an option screen for performing washing in the optimal washing course set as described above is displayed on the touch screen 122 . Then, the user can perform washing in the optimal washing course by simply touching the option screen without having to input individual steps (eg, rinsing, spin-drying, drying, etc.) of the washing course. In addition, since the optimal washing course considers not only the current weather condition but also the user's personal taste, user satisfaction may be further improved.

Hereinafter, FIG. 4 is a representative flowchart for explaining the operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 4 , the washing machine 100 according to the present invention receives an input of a washing start command ( S10 ).

Here, the input of the washing start command is an intentional input for starting washing, and may mean, for example, that a push input is applied to the power button 170 of the washing machine 100 . Alternatively, the input of the washing start command is when the touch screen 122 is switched from an inactive state to an active state (on), a home screen is output on the touch screen 122, or a touch is applied to a specific function icon on the home screen. can mean Alternatively, when it is detected that the user approaches the washing machine 100 through a proximity sensor or the like, or when paired with the smart server 200 or the user terminal, it may be considered that the input of the washing start command has occurred. Alternatively, it may mean a case in which the closing of the door 120 is sensed after the laundry is put into the washing tub.

When the washing start command is input as described above, the washing machine 100 may request the connected server to update the weather information (S20). Here, the weather information may include data such as temperature, wind speed, humidity, precipitation, solar radiation, fine dust, ozone level, and the like.

In addition, the request for weather information may be transmitted to the server 200 at predetermined time intervals, and the latest weather information may be received from the server 200 to the washing machine 100 each time. Also, the washing machine 100 and the server 200 may be wirelessly connected at a time when a washing start command is first inputted. In this case, a notification sound indicating wireless connection may be output through the sound output unit 125 .

Next, the control unit 180 of the washing machine 100 performs a step of calculating a washing index indicating washing suitability based on the updated weather information (S30). Here, the 'laundry index' refers to an index expressing how well laundry will be dried in consideration of weather conditions, that is, solar radiation, wind speed, temperature, humidity, and the like. Also called 'washing index'. In general, if the washing index is 80 or higher, it is 'Very good (most suitable)', if the washing index is in the range of 60 to 79, it is 'Good (moderate)', if the washing index is in the range of 31 to 59, it is 'Normal (possible)', and the washing index is in the range of 31 to 59. If is less than 30, it can be said to be 'bad (inappropriate)'.

On the other hand, for example, if the laundry index is provided together with the updated weather information from the 'smart server', the step (S30) of calculating the laundry index may be omitted. In this case, it is sufficient to perform only the operation related to displaying the received laundry index on the screen.

Subsequently, the controller 180 of the washing machine 100 sets a washing course based on the calculated washing index, the updated weather information, and the user's washing pattern (S40). Here, the user's washing pattern may be analyzed or read from the memory 195 based on washing history information for a predetermined previous period.

Here, the washing pattern may be generated based on information on washing courses performed for each season, month, and day of the week based on washing history information.

In one example, the user's washing pattern may be updated at a preset cycle or whenever a specific event occurs. In addition, the update cycle may be changed according to the number and interval of use of the washing machine. Also, in another example, a plurality of users may be stored to have different washing patterns. In this case, when a washing start command is input, a process of recognizing a user through voice recognition or the like may be preceded, and a washing pattern corresponding to the recognized user may be read from the memory 195 .

In addition, the washing course includes information about at least one of intensity, time, and number of individual cycles of each cycle such as a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, a dehydration cycle, and a drying cycle, and information about the temperature of water. The laundry course set according to an embodiment of the present invention means an optimal laundry course that satisfies both the current weather situation and the user's usual laundry pattern, and may be hereinafter referred to as a “smart laundry course”.

Since the weather conditions and the user's washing pattern vary with the passage of time, the intensity, time, and number of individual strokes of the smart laundry course may also vary each time it is set.

Specifically, the smart laundry course has a very diverse number of cases according to a combination of updated weather information, a user's laundry pattern, and a laundry index. For example, even if the washing index is the same, the washing course may be set differently according to the user's washing pattern (eg, the 'strongest' pattern for dehydration). In addition, even if the washing index and washing pattern are the same, a rinsing cycle may be added 1 or 2 more times in the existing washing pattern when the amount of fine dust is high.

Next, an option screen for performing laundry in the smart laundry course set as described above is displayed on the touch screen 122 (S50). The user checks the individual steps of the set washing course through the option screen, and then simply selects a washing driving button included in the option screen to perform washing with the set optimal washing course.

5 is an exemplary conceptual diagram for describing the operation of FIG. 4 in detail. As shown in FIG. 5 , when the touch screen 122 provided in the washing machine 100 is activated, a home screen 501 including a graphic object corresponding to a laundry related function that can be executed by the washing machine is displayed on the touch screen 122 . ) can be printed. Here, the graphic object may include an icon, a menu, an item, a guide message, and the like.

For example, a plurality of icons for executing a predetermined laundry related function may be displayed on the home screen 501 . Here, the plurality of icons may mean menus for executing different washing methods according to washing time, type of laundry, and the like. For example, a plurality of icons indicated as standard laundry, speed wash, synthetic fiber, blend laundry, knit/wool, and smart care 510 may be displayed along the outer peripheral surface of the circular touch screen.

There is no particular limitation on the arrangement method of the plurality of icons. Although not shown, when implemented as a rectangular touch screen, the plurality of icons may be arranged in columns/rows. Alternatively, when a specific icon is selected on the home screen, sub-icons corresponding thereto appear, or a single search window for searching for a desired function may be displayed instead of a plurality of icons.

An indicator area 520 indicating a wireless connection with the server 200 is displayed on one area of the home screen 501 , for example, at the top. The user may visually recognize the connection/disconnection between the washing machine 100 and the server 200 through the indicator area 520 .

Meanwhile, although not shown, in an example, when the connection between the washing machine 100 and the server 200 is released through the indicator area 520 , the registered user terminal (not shown) is brought closer to the indicator area 520 . By doing so, the registered user terminal and the washing machine 100 may be paired. In this case, the washing machine 100 may receive weather information from the registered user terminal through short-distance communication.

While the home screen 501 is displayed as described above, when a touch object, for example, a user's finger is used to approach or touch the smart care 510, the smart care 510 is selected and the operation according to the present invention is performed. can be executed In other words, here, it is recognized that the washing start command is input at the time when the touch is applied to the smart care 510 .

As such, as a touch input is applied to the smart care 510 , the washing machine 100 receives updated weather information through wireless communication with the server 200 , for example, Wi-Fi communication. At the same time, the controller 180 calls and reads washing pattern information based on the history of washing operation information of the washing machine 100 from the memory 195 . Also, the controller 180 may calculate a laundry index indicating washing suitability based on the received weather information or receive the laundry index calculated by the server 200 together with the weather information.

Then, the controller 180 sets the smart laundry course by adjusting detailed processes included in the read laundry pattern information based on the weather information and the laundry index.

For example, based on weather information such as humidity, rainfall/insolation, wind speed, and the like, and a laundry index indicating washing suitability, one or more of the intensity, time, and frequency of the spin-drying cycle may be differently adjusted in the user's usual washing pattern. In addition, when the amount of fine dust is large, the number of rinsing cycles may be added one more time in the user's usual washing pattern. As described above, since the adjustment of detailed administration suitable for the weather and washing index is performed based on the user's usual washing pattern, it is set according to whether the user uses the usual number of rinsing twice or three times, even if the amount of fine dust is the same. The number of rinsing times may vary.

For example, while the washing machine 100 collects and analyzes updated weather information and a user's washing pattern, image information 502 such as a predetermined image, text, video, animation, etc. may be output to the touch screen 122 . .

If the weather information collection fails due to disconnection from the server 200 while the image information 502 is being output, this state may be notified through the image information 502 . At this time, when the user terminal approaches the indicator area 520 , weather information may be received from the paired user terminal and the corresponding operation may be continuously performed without interruption. Meanwhile, even when the disconnection state with the server 200 and the user terminal continues, the smart laundry course may be set based on only the user's laundry pattern without stopping the operation.

The smart laundry course information set in this way is output to the touch screen 122 . As shown in FIG. 5 , a first graphic object informing of detailed administrative information of a set washing course and a second graphic object 511 corresponding to the calculated washing index are displayed on the option screen 502 .

Here, in the first graphic object, individual administrative information of smart laundry course information is, for example, in the form of texts such as rinsing 3 times, strong dehydration, water temperature, severe pollution, etc. in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction depending on the flow of the washing order. It can be displayed in a clockwise direction.

In addition, the second graphic object may be displayed as an image through which the user can intuit the laundry index. The second graphic object may be displayed in different images according to the fitness level of the calculated laundry index. Here, the different images mean different shapes, colors, highlighting effects, and expressions/shapes of emoticons.

For example, the second graphic object may be formed to have different colors according to the suitability level of the laundry index. For example, as the suitability level of the laundry index is higher, a blue color may be applied to the laundry index icon, and as the suitability level of the laundry index is lower, a red color may be applied to the laundry index icon. For example, if the laundry index is 80 or higher (very good or most suitable), it is blue; possible), it may be displayed in yellow, and if the laundry index is 30 or less (bad or inadequate), it may be displayed in red.

Referring to FIG. 5 , a color indicating the fitness level of the laundry index may be displayed along the border of the circular image on which the text 'washing index' is displayed. The user can visually intuit whether the washing index is high or low through the graphic object on the option screen. This intuitively helps the user to decide whether to perform washing or not to perform additional manipulations of individual strokes.

Also, on the option screen 502 , an execution button 512 for executing laundry in the smart laundry course corresponding to the first graphic object is provided. When the user touches the execution button 512, the washing operation is immediately driven to the smart washing course.

On the other hand, even after the user touches the execution button 512 to start washing, if the user touches the button once more, the washing execution is stopped and detailed operations of the smart laundry course corresponding to the first graphic object may be displayed again. Accordingly, even after washing is started, the washing course can be changed by touching the displayed detailed processes. In addition, the total washing time is displayed in the center of the option screen 502 , and when the washing operation is driven, a count operation is performed.

In addition, a third graphic object may be displayed in the detailed process adjusted to the washing pattern among the detailed processes of washing pattern information on the option screen 503 . Specifically, in FIG. 5, the existing washing pattern was a cycle of 'rinse twice' and 'intermediate dehydration'. Based on the laundry index and weather information, if the smart washing course is set to add 1 rinse and strong spin, the changed cycle In the information, that is, the 'strong dehydration' display area and the 'rinse 3 times' display area, the rectangular frame images 511a and 511b may be displayed as a highlighting effect, respectively.

In one example, a guide voice informing of the changed administrative information may be output through the sound output unit 125 . For example, when the option screen 503 is output, voice information such as 'The washing is performed with 3 rinses and strong dehydration' along with 'Smart washing course has been set' may be output through the sound output unit 125. have. If the washing machine 100 is equipped with a microphone (not shown), in response to such voice information, a washing start command or a rinsing or spin-drying reset command may be input through a user's voice.

As described above, according to an embodiment of the present invention, when a user inputs a washing start command, current weather information and usage patterns are collected and analyzed to automatically set an optimal washing course. Accordingly, the hassle of the user having to add or change individual strokes according to the current weather condition is eliminated. In addition, since the optimal washing course is made based on the analysis of the existing user's washing pattern, the user's taste can be satisfied at the same time. Furthermore, by providing visual information that can intuit the laundry index, it helps the user to decide whether to proceed with the laundry and whether to change the administration.

Hereinafter, various operations related to directly checking the washing index and weather information on the touch screen 122 of the washing machine 100 will be described in detail. First, FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C show examples of various screen changes related to the provision of laundry index information.

In FIG. 6A , an option screen 603 for executing a smart laundry course set based on a laundry index, weather information, and a user's laundry pattern is displayed on the touch screen 122 of the washing machine 100 .

In one area of the option screen 603, for example, a laundry index icon 611 displaying the text 'washing index' is displayed in the center, and the suitability level of the current laundry index (very good, A color (eg, most suitable -> blue) corresponding to good, normal, and bad) may be displayed.

At this time, as shown in FIG. 6A, when a tap or a single touch is applied to the laundry index icon 611, the option screen 603 displays weather information and the index of the laundry index. It is switched to screen information 604 .

The converted screen information 604 displays detailed information related to the weather (eg, temperature, humidity, fine dust, probability of precipitation, etc.) along with index (eg, 85) information of the laundry index as shown in FIG. 6A . A color corresponding to the suitability level ('very good') of the laundry index may be displayed on the outer peripheral edge of the screen information 604 . Accordingly, the user can directly check the updated weather information and the index information of the laundry index through the touch screen 122 provided in the washing machine 100 .

While the screen information 604 is displayed, the washing machine 100 may continuously request weather information updated at a predetermined time interval (eg, 10 seconds) from the server 200 . That is, even if there is no separate update input, the latest weather information and laundry index can be checked through the screen.

In one example, the screen information 604 may be output in the form of a pop-up window. In this case, the screen information 604 pops up on the top of the option screen 603 only while a touch is applied to the laundry index icon 611 , and when the touch is released, the screen information 604 is immediately removed to the option screen 603 . can be The screen information 604 is converted back to the option screen 603 when the confirmation button 614 is touched or a predetermined time elapses.

Meanwhile, the laundry index information may be provided only as an image, not as a specific index. For example, FIG. 6B (a) shows a face image 605 (smiling expression) when washing suitability is high, and FIG. 6b (b) shows a face image 606 (grimacing) when washing suitability is low. expression) was shown. Accordingly, the user with poor eyesight can easily recognize the washing suitability through the expression of the face image provided on the touch screen 122 .

In addition, in one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6c , a first indicator 615 for confirming the washing index history, for example, the left An arrow image may be displayed.

The user may apply a touch to the first indicator 615 to check index information of the last laundry index and weather information (not shown). To this end, in the memory 195 of the washing machine 100, index information of the laundry index, weather information, and information related to a smart laundry course generated based on the index information for a predetermined period may be accumulated and stored. The accumulated information is removed in the order of the oldest when new weather information is received.

The user may return to a past time point in proportion to the number of touches or the touch time applied to the first indicator 615 and check the laundry index and weather information (not shown). For example, when the first indicator 615 is touched once, as shown in FIG. 6c , it can be switched to the second screen information 606 indicating index information (eg, 'good, 65') of yesterday's laundry index. . In this case, a first indicator 616 for returning to the first screen information 605, for example, a right arrow image, is displayed on the upper right side of the second screen information 606 .

In this case, if the laundry was performed several times a day, the laundry index would have been calculated several times, so only the laundry index and weather information (not shown) calculated when the last or first laundry operation was performed may be provided. Alternatively, it may be provided in the form of an average value of a plurality of laundry indices and weather information. It should be noted here that the difference from the currently set smart laundry course is based on the actual execution of the past smart laundry course.

In addition, in one example, detailed operations of the smart laundry course executed in the past may be immediately checked and executed at the present time. Specifically, in FIG. 6C , when a touch is applied to the area where the index information is displayed, for example, the central area in the second screen information 606 that informs the index information of yesterday's laundry index in FIG. 6C , the detailed administration of the smart laundry course executed yesterday is The index information is displayed along the periphery of the displayed area, that is, along the outer peripheral surface of the touch screen 122 . For convenience of explanation, the changed screen will be referred to as third screen information 607 . The user can visually check the detailed administration of the smart laundry course executed yesterday through the third screen information 607 .

In this case, the controller 180 of the washing machine 100 controls the currently set smart laundry course (hereinafter, referred to as 'first smart laundry course') and the smart laundry course executed in the past (hereinafter referred to as "second smart laundry course"). )), and then, a highlighting effect may be output on individual administrative information (eg, 'rinsing 5 times') different from the first smart laundry course (617a).

When the user touches the execution button 512 displayed on the third screen information 607, washing is performed in the second smart laundry course. Alternatively, by touching the back button 621 in the third screen information 607 , washing may be performed in the first smart washing course. Alternatively, washing may be performed in the changed second smart washing course by touching an individual process displayed on the third screen information 607 .

Next, FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C show various examples associated with the time of providing laundry index information.

First, FIG. 9A is an example related to providing laundry index information on the home screen of the touch screen 122 . When the touch screen 122 of the washing machine 100 is activated, a plurality of icons corresponding to washing-related functions that can be executed by the washing machine are output on the home screen 901 .

When a first touch is applied to a specific icon among the plurality of icons, for example, the smart care 910 , the controller 180 recognizes that an input of a washing start command has been received. Accordingly, the above-described updated weather information request and calculation of the laundry index are made.

In addition, while the touch is applied to the smart care 910 , the controller 180 displays the index information of the laundry index calculated based on the updated weather information or received from the server 200 on the touch screen 122 as a pop-up message. It can be output in the form For example, as shown in FIG. 9A , as the area other than the smart care 910 is deactivated, a speech bubble message 912 indicating the laundry index '80' may pop up.

The speech bubble message 912 is displayed only while a touch is applied to the smart care 910 , and disappears when the touch is released. In this case, the execution screen corresponding to the smart care 910 , that is, the aforementioned option screen, may be executed when, for example, a touch applied to the smart care 910 is dragged toward the center of the home screen 901 .

As another example, FIG. 9B shows an example in which the index information of the laundry index is continuously displayed in a predetermined area while the touch screen 122 of the washing machine is in an active state. In this case, the activation state includes not only a case in which the entire touch screen 122 is in an on state, but also a case in which only a specific region, for example, only the upper indicator region 920a as shown in FIG. 9B is in an on state. . In the indicator area 920a, the index information 912b of the laundry index may be always displayed together with an icon indicating the connection state with the server 200. When a touch is applied to the index information 912b of the laundry index in the indicator area 920a, detailed information of the weather information may be checked.

As another example, in FIG. 9C , when the door is closed after the laundry is put into the washing machine 100, index information of the laundry index is provided on the screen. This is because the laundry index has a high probability that useful information is used at the time of starting washing, and the time at which washing is started is generally performed within a predetermined time after loading the laundry and closing the door. In the case of FIG. 9A, although it is simple, a user's input is required, and in the case of FIG. 9B, power consumption is increased in that at least a part of the touch screen must be maintained in an activated state.

Accordingly, in the example of FIG. 9C , when the door 120 is opened, the touch screen 122 maintains an inactive state ( 900 ). When the closing of the door 120 is sensed after the laundry is put into the washing tub, it is recognized that the input of the washing start command is received. Accordingly, the server 200 requests updated weather information through the communication unit 155 of the washing machine 100 . To this end, a sensor for detecting the opening and closing of the washing machine door 120 may be provided on one side of the door 120 or the hinge unit 140 . Thereafter, even if the user does not push or touch the power button 170 or the touch screen 122 , the index information of the laundry index is automatically provided on the touch screen 122 ( 940 ).

Accordingly, there is no need to perform an additional input on the home screen as shown in FIG. 9A or keep a part of the touch screen in an activated state as shown in FIG. 9B in order to check the washing index.

On the other hand, in one example, when the washing suitability of the washing index displayed on the touch screen 122 is less than the threshold level, the control unit 180 determines a notification sound or a guide voice (eg, 'washing index is too low'). Accordingly, it helps the user to decide whether to defer washing to a later time or add a drying stroke.

Hereinafter, FIG. 7 is an exemplary flowchart for explaining another operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 7 , when washing is completed in the smart laundry course or the changed laundry course ( S710 ), the washing machine 100 may request the connected server 200 to update the weather information again ( S720 ).

Then, the controller 180 of the washing machine 100 calculates again the laundry index indicating the washing suitability based on the updated weather information (S730). The reason for calculating the washing index once more after the washing is completed is that, if the washing time is prolonged, the weather conditions may be changed differently from the time at which washing is started. In addition, since the time when the laundry is actually dried is closer to the time when the washing is completed than the time when the washing is started, the usability of the laundry index can be further improved.

When the laundry index is recalculated as described above, the controller 180 of the washing machine 100 sets a drying cycle course based on the calculated laundry index (S740).

In this case, a process of comparing and analyzing the first laundry index calculated when the input of the laundry start command is received and the second laundry index calculated after washing is completed may be further performed. In addition, one of the strength, time, and number of drying cycles may be set to correspond to the comparison and analysis results. In order to distinguish the drying stroke course set based on the washing index as described above from the case of user input, it may be referred to as a 'smart drying stroke course' hereinafter.

On the other hand, if a drying cycle has already been added to the smart washing course, the controller 180 controls the intensity, time, and number of drying cycles of the smart washing course according to the comparison and analysis results of the first washing index and the second washing index. A smart drying stroke course can be set by appropriately adjusting one or more. For example, when the second washing index increases than the first washing index, the smart drying cycle may be set by reducing the drying cycle time compared to the previous time. On the other hand, if the second washing index is lower than the first washing index, the smart drying cycle can be set by increasing the time of the drying cycle or increasing the number of times compared to the previous one.

Next, the smart drying stroke course information may be output to the touch screen 122 in response to an open signal of the door 120 of the washing machine 100 (S750). To this end, as described above, a sensor for detecting the opening and closing of the door 120 may be provided on one side of the door 120 or the hinge unit 140 .

Specifically, when the opening of the door 120 is sensed after washing is completed, the touch screen 122 is activated and a drying option screen for executing the smart drying process is displayed on the touch screen 122 . After that, if the user just touches the execution button on the drying option screen, drying is immediately executed with the drying stroke optimal for the current weather situation. As such, the reason for providing the drying option screen in response to the open signal of the door 120 after washing is complete is to provide useful information in consideration of the case where laundry is collected long after washing is completed.

8 shows a specific screen change according to the operation of FIG. 7 . When washing is completed in the set or changed smart washing course, screen information 801 indicating that washing is complete is output on the touch screen 122 . In the indicator area 820 of the screen information 801, an icon informing of connection/disconnection with the server 200 is displayed.

Then, the controller 180 requests the updated weather information from the connected server 200 and recalculates the laundry index based on the received weather information. As described above, during the collection of weather information and calculation of the laundry index, a predetermined standby screen 802 is output on the touch screen 122 .

The controller 180 recalculates the laundry index by requesting the updated weather information from the server 200 at a reference time interval after washing is complete until the door is opened. However, the standby screen 802 is output only for a predetermined time after washing is completed in consideration of power consumption, and after that, the touch screen 122 may be switched to an inactive state.

The controller 180 may set a drying cycle course based on the latest weather information and the recalculated laundry index. For example, when the humidity is low at the start of washing, but the humidity is high or it rains after washing is completed, one or more of the intensity, number, and time of the drying cycle may be increased. Meanwhile, in one example, a smart drying cycle may be set based on a user's washing pattern in addition to the washing index and weather information. For example, if the user usually performs a drying cycle for 30 minutes after washing is completed, but the washing index is low, the drying cycle time may be set to 1 hour.

When the opening of the door 120 is detected, the touch screen 122 is activated and a drying option screen 803 capable of immediately executing the set smart drying process is output. A graphic object 811 indicating the washing index is displayed in the center of the drying option screen 803 , and the set drying time is displayed in the visit area 802 . If the user selects the execution button 812 after confirming that the door 120 is closed, drying is executed by the set smart drying stroke.

Hereinafter, FIG. 10 is an exemplary flowchart for explaining another operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. A specific example of the operation method of the washing machine is shown when the set smart administration course is changed through the touch screen.

In response to the input of the washing start command, an option screen for performing washing in a smart washing course set based on the washing index, weather information, and the user's washing pattern is displayed on the touch screen 122 provided in the washing machine 100 (S50).

The washing machine 100 may detect that an input for adjusting at least one individual stroke, ie, a touch input, is received on the displayed option screen (S60).

To this end, detailed administrative information of the set smart laundry course is displayed on the option screen. In addition, the user can adjust the intensity, time, and number of individual strokes, for example, a rinsing stroke, a dehydration stroke, a water temperature, and a drying stroke, as desired by using a touch input. That is, it is possible to quickly perform individual stroke adjustments on the option screen without changing the screen.

Next, the controller 180 of the washing machine 100 may update the user's washing pattern based on the received input (S70). Specifically, when washing is performed with the changed washing course, the controller 180 may learn the user's washing pattern based on the changed washing course. And, it can be used to calculate the next washing index based on the updated washing pattern.

Also, the controller 180 may store the changed laundry course as an optimal laundry course corresponding to the corresponding laundry index. However, even if the laundry index is the same, if the specific weather information is different (eg, high fine dust, insufficient insolation, etc.), the smart laundry course can be set by correspondingly adjusting the individual strokes of the stored optimal laundry course.

As described above, according to the washing machine and washing method according to the embodiment of the present invention, when only a washing start command is input, current weather information and usage patterns are collected and analyzed to automatically set an optimal washing course. Accordingly, the user's need to add or change individual strokes of the laundry course according to the current weather conditions, respectively, is eliminated. In addition, since the optimal washing course is made based on the analysis of the existing user's washing pattern, the user's taste can be satisfied at the same time. In addition, by providing visual information that can intuit the laundry index, it helps the user to decide whether to proceed with the laundry and whether to change the administration. In addition, even after the optimal washing course has been set, the desired individual operation can be changed easily and quickly with a convenient touch operation. In addition, even after washing is completed, a screen is provided so that an optimal drying cycle can be performed based on the latest weather information, so that the interface is convenient and more reliable washing is performed.

The present invention described above can be implemented as computer-readable code on a medium in which a program is recorded. The computer-readable medium includes all kinds of recording devices in which data readable by a computer system is stored. Examples of computer-readable media include Hard Disk Drive (HDD), Solid State Disk (SSD), Silicon Disk Drive (SDD), ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, optical data storage device, etc. There is also a carrier wave (eg, transmission over the Internet) that includes implementation in the form of. In addition, the computer may include the control unit 180 of the terminal. Accordingly, the above detailed description should not be construed as restrictive in all respects but as exemplary. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims (18)

laundry tub;
a door configured to open and close the clothes inlet of the washing tub;
a sensor for detecting opening and closing of the door;
a touch screen for outputting a graphic object corresponding to a laundry-related function that can be executed by the washing tub;
a communication unit communicating with a server providing weather information; and
a control unit for requesting updated weather information from the server in response to an input of a laundry start command, and calculating a laundry index indicating washing suitability based on the updated weather information;
The control unit is
Control to maintain the touch screen in an inactive state while the opening of the door is detected by the sensor,
When the closing of the door is sensed by the sensor, the touch screen is switched to an activated state,
Recognizing that the washing start command has been received, requesting and receiving updated weather information through the communication unit, and setting a washing course of the washing tub based on the washing index, the updated weather information, and a user's washing pattern, controlling the touch screen to output an option screen for performing washing in the set washing course,
When a certain period of time has elapsed after the start of washing, the touch screen is deactivated,
When washing is completed with the set washing course, the touch screen is activated to output first screen information informing that washing is complete,
After washing is completed, the laundry index is recalculated by re-requesting the updated weather information to the server at a reference time interval until the door is opened.
and outputting second screen information for executing a drying cycle based on the recalculated washing index on the touch screen in response to the door opening being detected. According to claim 1,
A washing machine characterized in that a first graphic object informing of detailed administrative information of a set washing course and a second graphic object corresponding to the washing index are displayed on the option screen. According to claim 1,
Including a memory in which the user's laundry pattern information is stored,
The control unit is
and calling the laundry pattern information stored in the memory in response to the washing start command, and adjusting a detailed operation included in the washing pattern information based on the updated weather information and the washing index. 4. The method of claim 3,
The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein visual information informing of an adjusted detailed operation among the detailed operations of the washing pattern information is displayed on the option screen. According to claim 1,
The control unit is
and controlling the touch screen to collect the weather information and the washing pattern and output a predetermined image during a waiting time for setting a washing course. 3. The method of claim 2,
In response to a touch input applied to the second graphic object of the option screen, the option screen is converted into screen information informing the updated weather information and the laundry index. 7. The method of claim 6,
In the screen information, an indicator for checking the history of washing index and weather information for a predetermined period is displayed,
The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the laundry index and weather information for a selected date are provided on the touch screen based on the touch input applied to the indicator. 8. The method of claim 7,
When a touch input is applied to the image of the laundry index for the selected date, the detailed operation of the laundry course set for the corresponding date is displayed around the image. According to claim 1,
A function icon for receiving the input of the washing start command is output on the touch screen,
While a touch is applied to the function icon, the laundry index information calculated based on the updated weather information or received from the server is popped up on an area of the touch screen,
The washing machine, characterized in that when the touch applied to the function icon is released, the information on the laundry index that pops up disappears. According to claim 1,
The information indicating the washing index is continuously displayed in a predetermined area while the touch screen is in an active state. delete According to claim 1,
The washing machine further comprises a sound output unit for outputting a predetermined notification sound when the washing suitability of the washing index is less than a threshold level. delete delete delete According to claim 1,
Detailed administrative information of the set laundry course is displayed on the option screen,
The control unit is
The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the individual administration course of the set washing course is changed based on a touch input applied to the detailed administrative information while maintaining the option screen. 17. The method of claim 16,
The control unit is
The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the washing pattern of the user is updated based on the changed washing course according to the manipulation of the individual administrative course, and the changed washing course is stored as an optimal washing course corresponding to the corresponding washing index. A method of operating a washing machine including a touch screen, comprising:
maintaining the touch screen in an inactive state while an opening of the door is detected by a sensor for detecting opening and closing of the door of the washing machine;
when the door is closed by the sensor, switching the touch screen to an activated state, recognizing that a washing start command has been received, and requesting and receiving updated weather information from a connected server;
calculating a laundry index indicating washing suitability based on the updated weather information;
setting a laundry course based on the calculated laundry index, the updated weather information, and a user's laundry pattern;
displaying an option screen for performing washing in the set washing course on the touch screen;
disabling the touch screen when a predetermined time has elapsed after starting washing, and activating the touch screen when washing is completed in a set washing course to output first screen information informing that washing is complete;
re-calculating the laundry index by re-requesting the updated weather information to the server at a reference time interval after washing is completed until the door is opened; and
and outputting second screen information for executing a drying cycle based on the recalculated laundry index on the touch screen in response to detecting the opening of the door.

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