KR102643351B1 - Laundry treating apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a clothing processing device having a touch screen that displays visual information. The laundry treatment apparatus includes first and second cabinets forming an external shape; a first washing tub provided in the first cabinet; a first door configured to open and close the clothes input port of the first washing tub; a drawer housing that can be introduced into or withdrawn from the second cabinet through an opening formed in front of the second cabinet; a second washing tub provided within the drawer housing; a second door configured to open and close the clothes input port of the second washing tank; A touch screen 251 provided in the first cabinet; and a control unit that controls the touch screen to output a first graphic object configured to select the first washing tub and a second graphic object configured to select the second washing tub.

Description

Clothing processing equipment {LAUNDRY TREATING APPARATUS}

The present invention relates to a clothing processing device having a touch screen that displays visual information.

Clothing processing devices include devices that wash clothes, devices that dry clothes, and devices that can both wash and dry clothes. In a clothing treatment device, washing clothes is a process of removing contaminants from the laundry through the action of water and detergent, and drying clothes is a process of removing moisture contained in clothes through a hot air supply device provided in the clothing treatment device. It is an administration that removes.

A general clothing processing device includes a main body that has an external appearance and includes a clothing input port, a clothing receiving portion provided inside the main body, a driving unit that rotates a drum constituting the clothing receiving portion, a door configured to open and close the clothing input port, and a clothing receiving portion provided inside the main body. It includes a control unit that displays visual information related to administration processed by the processing device and receives user operations.

In this general clothing processing device, the door is designed to perform its original function of opening and closing the clothing input port and looking into the clothing receiving section. In addition, the control unit is usually provided in the main body, and only predetermined strokes are briefly displayed in an on/off manner, and a number of buttons or knobs are provided to operate them.

This division of the door and the control unit hindered the simple appearance of the clothing processing device, and the input and output interface between the clothing processing device and the user had no choice but to remain in a low-dimensional manner.

Accordingly, research is being conducted to locate the control unit on the door and implement the control unit as a touch screen. However, research is being conducted on a door structure that can bring about an integrated aesthetic of the door and the touch screen and a high-quality sensibility at a low cost. is still underdeveloped.

In addition, as the variety of washing functions implemented in clothing processing devices increases, there is a growing desire for separate laundry to separate laundry according to type. For example, there is a user desire to separate laundry into underwear and socks, or to separate laundry by color and wash them separately. However, since a typical clothing treatment device has only one clothing receiving portion that accommodates clothing, there is the inconvenience of having to wash the laundry several times separately to solve the above need.

To solve this inconvenience, research is being conducted on a single clothing treatment device equipped with multiple washing tubs, but research on a user interface that can control multiple washing tubs is still unknown. Since there is a separate control unit for each washing machine, the user has the inconvenience of having to check each control unit one by one and input a control command. Therefore, a new type of user interface for controlling multiple washing tubs can be said to be an important issue in terms of increasing user convenience.

Furthermore, considering cost, there is a need for a clothing processing system that allows separate washing while still using the clothing processing device the user already has. A user can create a clothing processing system that includes multiple clothing processing devices by adding a new clothing processing device to the existing clothing processing device. Even in this case, since a separate control unit exists for each clothing treatment device, a new type of user interface is needed to control a plurality of clothing processing devices.

One object of the present invention is to provide a door structure for a clothing processing device that can provide an integrated aesthetic to the user when constructing a window on the door through which a clothing receiving portion can be viewed and a display displaying information processed in the clothing processing device. It's about doing it.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a door structure for a clothing treatment device that can provide a circular display to the user using a square display.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a laundry treatment device that can control at least one of a plurality of washing machines or a plurality of laundry treatment devices using one display.

Another object of the present invention is to enable the user to accurately and intuitively recognize any one of a plurality of washing machines or a plurality of laundry treatment devices using a single display. The goal is to provide a new type of user interface.

Another object of the present invention is to artificially determine which washing machine (or which laundry treatment device) the user wants to use based on the user's behavior, and immediately turn on the washing machine without the user having to input any additional input. The goal is to provide a user interface that makes it usable.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a laundry treatment device that can use a new washing function developed by a third party in addition to the washing function preset in the laundry treatment device.

In order to achieve the problem of the present invention, the laundry treatment apparatus of the present invention includes first and second cabinets forming an external shape; a first washing tub provided in the first cabinet; a first door configured to open and close the clothes input port of the first washing tub; a drawer housing that can be introduced into or withdrawn from the second cabinet through an opening formed in front of the second cabinet; a second washing tub provided within the drawer housing; a second door configured to open and close the clothes input port of the second washing tank; A touch screen 251 provided in the first cabinet; and a control unit that controls the touch screen to output a first graphic object configured to select the first washing tub and a second graphic object configured to select the second washing tub.

The first door includes a door frame rotatably coupled to the first cabinet; and a door cover coupled to the door frame to form an exterior of the first door and having a light-transmitting area, wherein the touch screen is mounted on the door frame and provides visual information through the light-transmitting area of the door cover. can be output.

When a touch is applied to any one of the first and second graphic objects, the control unit selects one of the first and second washing machines, and outputs icons related to functions that the selected washing machine can execute. The touch screen can be controlled as much as possible.

The control unit controls the touch screen to output icons included in the first group when the first washing tub is selected, and controls the touch screen to output icons included in the second group when the second washing tub is selected. can do.

When icons included in one of the first and second groups are output, the control unit may limit output of icons included in the other group.

The control unit is configured to, when a touch is applied to the second graphic object while the icons included in the first group are displayed on the touch screen, the icons included in the first group disappear and the icons included in the second group are displayed. The touch screen can be controlled so that these are output.

When icons included in the first group are output, the second graphic object may be output together, and when icons included in the second group are output, the first graphic object may be output together.

When the first washing tub is selected, a first image is output on the touch screen, icons included in the first group are displayed on the first image, and when the second washing tub is selected, the touch screen displays the first image. A second image different from the first image is output, and icons included in the second group may be displayed on the second image.

The first washing tub may rotate around a first rotation axis, and the second washing tub may rotate around a second rotation axis intersecting the first rotation axis.

Each of the icons included in the first group is linked to a function that the first washing tub can execute according to the characteristics of the first rotation axis, and each of the icons included in the second group is linked to the characteristics of the second rotation axis. Accordingly, it may be linked to functions that the second washing machine can perform.

When a touch is applied to the first icon while outputting icons included in the first group, the control unit executes a function associated with the first icon using the first washing machine, and If a touch is applied to the second icon while outputting the included icons, the function linked to the second icon can be executed using the second washing machine.

When a function using one of the first and second washing machines is being executed, the control unit may control the touch screen to output guidance information guiding the progress of the function using one of the washing machines.

The controller may control the touch screen to output the first and second graphic objects when a touch input that satisfies a preset condition is applied to the touch screen while outputting the guide information.

The first and second graphic objects are made of transparent images, the guide information overlaps the first and second graphic objects, and a touch input to any one of the first and second graphic objects is applied to any one of the first and second graphic objects. You can create control commands for .

When the first function using the first washing tub and the second function using the second washing tub are being executed, the control unit provides a first guide to guide the progress of the first function in the first area of the touch screen. Information may be output, and second guidance information guiding the progress of the second function may be output in a second area different from the first area.

A first virtual button for stopping or resuming the first function may be displayed in the first area, and a second virtual button for stopping or resuming the second function may be displayed in the second area.

The touch screen is formed in a circular shape, and the control unit counts the expected completion time of the function using one of the functions when the function using one of the above is executed, and the edge of the touch screen based on the counted time. The touch screen can be controlled to output an image whose size gradually changes along the lines.

The control unit may control the touch screen so that icons included in the first group are output when the first door is switched from the first state to the second state by an external force.

The first state may be an open state in which the door is open at the clothing input port, and the second state may be a closed state in which the door is closing the clothing input port.

The control unit may control the touch screen to output icons included in the second group when the second door is switched from the first state to the second state by an external force.

The effects of the clothing treatment device according to the present invention will be described as follows.

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

In addition, when the second light transmitting area is formed in a circular shape arranged to overlap within a rectangular display, visual information is output only to the portion corresponding to the circular second light transmitting area, and a circular display unit can be provided to the user. . At this time, the control unit can save power by controlling the output of visual information for a portion of the display that does not correspond to the second light transmitting area.

The effects that can be obtained from the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. will be.

Figure 1A is a perspective view showing a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 1B is a conceptual diagram showing a state in which the first door shown in FIG. 1A is rotated in the first order and the clothing input port is opened.
FIG. 1C is a conceptual diagram showing a state in which the first door is rotated in a secondary state in the state shown in FIG. 1B.
Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the first door shown in Figure 1A.
FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a second washing tank in the laundry treatment device shown in FIG. 1A.
Figure 4 is a flowchart representatively showing the control method of the present invention.
Figures 5, 6a, 6b, and 6c are illustrations showing examples of the control method of Figure 4 being applied.
Figure 7 is a conceptual diagram showing a clothing processing device that displays first and second graphic objects in response to user input that satisfies preset conditions.
Figure 8 is a flow chart showing the operation of the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine in the laundry treatment machine including the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine.
FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, and 9D are conceptual diagrams showing a method of outputting related information on a touch screen as a cycle is executed in at least one of the main washing machine and the auxiliary laundry machine.
FIGS. 10A and 10B are conceptual diagrams showing a method of controlling the sound output of each laundry treatment device.
FIGS. 11A and 11B are conceptual diagrams showing a method of controlling information output to the touch screen based on user behavior.
12 is a conceptual diagram for explaining operations related to the child lock function.
Figure 13 is a conceptual diagram showing a method of connecting or disconnecting the main washing machine with the auxiliary washing machine based on user input.
Figure 14 is a conceptual diagram showing a clothing processing device that allows use of a new washing function developed by a third party in addition to the preset washing function.

Hereinafter, the clothing treatment device related to the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

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

Even if the embodiments are different from each other, the same or similar reference numerals will be assigned to components that are the same or similar to those of the previous embodiment, and overlapping descriptions thereof will be omitted.

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

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

FIG. 1A is a perspective view showing a clothing treatment apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 1B and 1C show the first door 120 shown in FIG. 1A being rotated first and second, respectively, to open the first door 100. These are conceptual diagrams showing the clothing input port 160a in an open state.

Referring to these drawings, the laundry treatment device 100 includes a first cabinet 110 and a first door 120.

The first cabinet 110 has the external appearance of the clothing processing device 100 and is provided with a first clothing input port 160a through which clothing is input. In this embodiment, it is shown that the first clothing input port 160a is formed in the front part of the first cabinet 110 having a hexahedral shape.

The interior of the first cabinet 110 is provided with a clothing receiving portion that accommodates laundry through the first clothing input port 160a. The clothing receiving unit may be referred to as a 'washing tank'.

For example, when the clothing treatment device 100 of the present invention is configured as a device for drying laundry, the clothing receiving portion may be comprised of a first drum 150 rotatably provided inside the first cabinet 110. You can.

As another example, when the clothing treatment device 100 of the present invention is configured as a device that can perform both washing and drying of laundry, the clothing receiving portion is provided inside the first cabinet 110 and is a tub (not shown) in which washing water is stored. and a first drum 150 rotatably provided inside the tub to accommodate laundry.

The first cabinet 110 is provided with a drive unit (not shown) configured to rotate the first drum 150. The drive unit may include a motor that generates driving force and a belt that rotates the drum 150 using the driving force.

A detergent supply unit (not shown) may be installed in the first cabinet 110 in a drawer manner so that it can be withdrawn and retracted. The cover 112 covering the detergent supply unit may be configured to rotate in the up and down directions.

The first cabinet 110 may be provided with a power button 170 to turn on/off the power of the laundry treatment device 100. When the display 122, which will be described later, is configured as a touch screen, it may be configured to turn on/off the power of the laundry treatment device 100 through a touch input on the touch screen 122. In this case, the power button 170 is not provided, so a simpler appearance can be implemented.

The first door 120 is rotatably installed with respect to the first cabinet 110 by the hinge unit 140 and is configured to open and close the first clothing input port 160a. As shown, the first cabinet 110 may be recessed from the outer surface inward and may be provided with a door receiving portion 160b having a first clothing input port 160a therein. When the first door 120 is closed, the first door 120 is received in the first door receiving portion 160b, and the outer surface edge portion of the first door 120 is adjacent to the first cabinet 110. It can be arranged to form the same plane as the outer surface of .

Due to the structure in which the first door 120 is accommodated in the first door receiving portion 160b, in order to prevent the first door 120 from being caught in the first cabinet 110 when the first door 120 is opened, The hinge unit 140 may have a double hinge structure with two different rotation axes. In this case, as shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C, after the first door 120 is separated from the first door receiving portion 160b by primary rotation about one rotation axis, it is rotated about another rotation axis. The first door 120 may be configured to rotate by secondary rotation.

In a structure in which the hinge unit 140 is mounted on one side of the first door 120, a locking device is provided on the other side of the first door 120 to secure or unfasten the first door 120 to the first cabinet 110. is provided. The locking device is configured as a push type, so that when the other side of the first door 120 is pressed once, the first door 120 is locked, and when the other side of the first door 120 is pressed again, the first door 120 is unlocked.

The first door 120 is provided with a window 121 and a display 122.

When the first door 120 is closed, the window 121 is disposed to correspond to the first clothing input port 160a, so that the clothing receiving portion can be viewed. Accordingly, the user can check the status of the clothing accommodated in the clothing storage unit through the window 121.

The display 122 displays (outputs) information processed by the clothing processing device 100. For example, the display 122 displays execution screen information of the steps (washing, spin-drying, drying steps, etc.) run in the clothing processing device 100, or a UI (User Interface) or GUI (Graphic Interface) corresponding to this execution screen information. User Interface) information can be displayed.

Below, the detailed structure of the first door 120 will be described.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the first door 120 shown in FIG. 1A.

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

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

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

As shown, 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 made of synthetic resin material (eg, ABS material, PC material, etc.).

For reference, the reason why the above components are referred to as the outer frame 131 and the inner frame 132 is that when the first door 120 is closed and the door frame 130 itself is viewed, the outer frame 131 is This is because it faces the outside of the first cabinet 110, and the inner frame 132 faces the inside of the first cabinet 110. Without such 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 first clothing input port 160a when the first door 120 is closed, and a second opening corresponding to the display module 128 mounted therein. 131b) is provided. The first opening 130a may also be referred to as a door window hole in that the door window 136 is installed in the first opening 130a, 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 part 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 part 132b.

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

A display module 128 is installed inside the door frame 130. The display module 128 is arranged to correspond to the second opening 131b, and the display 122 provided in the display module 128 is configured to output visual information related to information processed by the clothing processing device 100. .

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

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

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

The door cover 190 may be formed in a curved shape at least in one part. 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 due to the curved 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 at least in a curved shape.

In this embodiment, the first light transmitting area 191 is formed across the first cover part and the bending part, and the second light transmitting area 192 is formed over the second cover part.

Meanwhile, the second light transmitting area 192 is formed to be smaller than the second opening 131b, and is arranged to overlap within the second opening 131b when the door cover 190 is coupled to the door frame 130.

As shown, the second opening 131b is formed in a square shape corresponding to the square display module 128, and the second light transmitting area 192 is formed in a circular shape arranged to overlap within the second opening 131b. can be formed. With the above configuration, visual information is output only to the portion corresponding to the circular second light transmitting area 192, so that the circular display 122 can be provided to the user.

Circular displays are more expensive than the widely used square displays, and due to their shape, it is difficult to determine the exact installation location, which can lead to frequent assembly defects. However, according to the above structure, a touch screen 122 that appears circular to the user can be provided while using a square display that has a lower cost and can be assembled in an accurate position.

Since the second transmissive 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 transmissive area 192 is not visible to the user. Considering this, visual information may not be output on a portion of the touch screen 122 that does not correspond to the second light transmitting area 192.

For example, in a state where visual information related to information processed by the clothing treatment device 100 is output on the portion corresponding to the second light-transmissive area 192 of the touch screen 122, the second light-transmissive area 192 does not display any visual information. An outline image surrounding the visual information may be output in the corresponding portion. The outer image is a portion that does not correspond to the second light transmitting area 192 and may be filled with a specific color series (for example, black).

As another example, in a state where visual information related to information processed by the clothing treatment device 100 is output to the portion corresponding to the second light transmitting area 192 of the display 122, the second light transmitting area 192 does not display any visual information. The corresponding part may be configured to be turned off. That is, not only visual information but also outer images are not output to the portion of the display module 128 that does not correspond to the second light transmitting area 192. In this example, since only a portion of the display 122 is driven, compared to the previous example in which the entire display 122 is driven, the display 122 can be driven more efficiently, thereby achieving a power saving effect.

The display 122 formed on the door cover 190 may be formed in a layered structure or integrated with a touch sensor (not shown), thereby implementing the touch screen 122. The touch screen 122 functions as a user input unit that provides an input interface between the clothing processing device 100 and the user, and can simultaneously provide an output interface between the clothing processing device 100 and the user. For example, selection and change of the operation mode for performing washing, dehydration and drying processes, etc. may be implemented with a user's touch input (or touch) on the display 122.

The touch screen 122 is equipped with a touch sensor to sense touch input.

The touch sensor detects a touch input applied to the touch screen 122 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 changes in pressure applied to a specific part of the touch screen 122 or capacitance occurring in a specific part into an electrical input signal. The touch sensor may be configured to detect the location, area, and pressure of a touch object that touches the touch screen 122, etc. 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 or stylus pen, or a pointer.

As such, when there is a touch input to the touch screen 122, the corresponding signal(s) are sent to the controller. The controller processes the signal(s) and then transmits the corresponding data to the control unit (not shown). As a result, the control unit can determine which area of the touch screen 122 has been touched. Here, the controller may be a separate component from the control unit or may be the control unit itself.

Meanwhile, the control unit may perform different controls or the same control depending on the type of touch object that touches the touch screen 122. Whether to perform different controls or the same controls depending on the type of touch object may be determined depending on the operating state of the clothing handling device 100 or the application program being executed.

The touch screen 122 includes short (or tap) touch, long touch, multi touch, drag touch, flick touch, and pinch-in touch. Various types of touch can be sensed, such as pinch-in touch, pinch-out touch, swipe touch, and hovering touch.

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 of the door cover 190 to cover the second translucent area 192 and a portion of the non-transmissive area 193 surrounding the second translucent area 192. It is illustrating. According to the above configuration, the touch sensing area of the touch screen 122 includes not only the second transmissive area 192 but also a portion of the non-transmissive area 193 surrounding the second transmissive area 192. Accordingly, various UIs or GUIs can be provided using a portion of the non-transmissive area 193 surrounding the second transmissive area 192.

In the above structure, the touch sensor may be formed in the form of a touch film having a touch pattern and placed between the door cover 190 and the display module 128. The touch film is composed of a transparent conductive film, and previously 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 of the door cover 190 or on 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 may be attached to the rear of the door cover 190 and formed integrally with the door cover 190. .

The touch sensor may be formed by patterning a metal wire directly on the back of the door cover 190 without a separate touch film.

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

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

Meanwhile, the laundry treatment apparatus 100 includes a plurality of washing tubs, and can perform input/output related to at least one of the plurality of washing tubs using the touch screen 122.

FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the second washing tank in the laundry treatment device shown in FIG. 1A.

The laundry treatment device 100 according to the present invention may include a main laundry device 200 and an auxiliary laundry device 300. Additionally, the auxiliary washing machine 300 may be installed on one side or below the main washing machine 200. In addition, the main washing machine 200 has a first cabinet 210 that forms the outline of the main washing machine 200, and the auxiliary washing machine 300 has a second cabinet 210 that forms the outline of the auxiliary washing machine 300. A cabinet 310 may be provided. At this time, the first cabinet 210 and the second cabinet 310 may be formed integrally.

The main washing machine 200 includes a first body 210 forming an external shape, a first washing tub 260 provided in the first body, a first door 220 that opens and closes the first washing tub, and the first washing tub 220. It may include a touch screen 222 provided on the door 220, a window 221, a first output unit 240, a first communication unit 250, a power button 270, and a first control unit 280. there is. The components shown in FIG. 3 are not essential for implementing the main washing machine 200, so the mobile terminal described herein may have more or fewer components than those listed above. .

Meanwhile, the auxiliary washing machine 300 includes a second washing tank 360 that is different from the first washing tank 260.

The auxiliary washing device 300 may exist in various forms. For example, referring to FIG. 3, the auxiliary washing machine 200 may be formed as a top-loading type laundry machine. If the main washing machine 200 is a washing machine in which the first washing tank 260 rotates around a first rotation axis, the auxiliary washing machine 300 is a washing machine in which the second washing tank 360 intersects the first rotation axis. It may be a washing machine that rotates around a second rotation axis. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the auxiliary washing machine 300 may have the same structure as the main washing machine 200, or may be modified into various structures not shown in the drawings.

The auxiliary washing machine 300 may be configured to have at least one of washing capacity, volume, and height smaller than the main washing machine 200. As a result, the user can selectively use at least one of the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine (200, 300) according to the amount of laundry. Additionally, the user can select at least one of the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine (200, 300) depending on the type of laundry. For example, laundry that needs to be washed separately, such as baby clothes and underwear, or a small amount of laundry, can be washed using the auxiliary washing machine 300, and other laundry can be washed using the main laundry machine 200. It can be washed.

The auxiliary washing device 300 includes a second main body 310 forming an exterior, a drawer housing 330 that can be inserted into or extracted from the second main body 310, and a drawer housing. (330) It is provided with a second washing tank 360 provided inside.

The drawer housing 330 may be introduced into the second main body 310 or withdrawn from the second main body 310 through the opening 312 formed in the second main body 310 in the front direction of the auxiliary washing machine 300. You can.

The second washing tub 360 may be rotated within the drawer housing 330 by a second motor provided on the outside of the second washing tub 360.

Additionally, a cover panel 331 may be installed in front of the drawer housing 330. This cover panel 331 may be formed integrally with the drawer housing 330. In addition, a handle 332 for inserting and withdrawing the drawer housing 330 may be formed on the cover panel 331, and a control for operating the auxiliary washing device 300 may be provided on the upper surface of the cover panel 331. A panel 370 may be provided.

In addition, at the top of the drawer housing 330, there is a supply hole 365 for supplying wash water into the second washing tub 360 and a second door 363 through which laundry can be placed or removed into the second washing tub 360. Can be installed. A handle 364 may be provided on one side of the second door 363 to pull and open the second door 363.

Meanwhile, each output unit (240,340) included in the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine (200,300) is for generating output related to vision, hearing, or tactile sense, and includes a display, an audio output unit, a haptip module, and an optical output unit. It may include at least one of: For example, when the first cycle ends in the main washing machine 200, a notification sound notifying the end of the first cycle is output through the first output unit 240, and the auxiliary laundry machine 300 When the second stroke is ended, a notification sound notifying the end of the second stroke may be output through the second output unit 340.

The first and second communication units 250 and 350 serve as a passageway that connects the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine 200 and 300 to each other wired/wireless. In response to being connected to the auxiliary washing machine 300, the main washing machine 200 may perform appropriate control related to the connected auxiliary laundry machine 300.

The first and second control units 280 and 380 perform operations related to a plurality of application programs (application programs or applications) running in each washing machine. For example, the first control unit 280 performs operations related to the main washing machine 200, and the second control unit 380 performs operations related to the auxiliary washing machine 300.

Meanwhile, in the laundry processing device 100 according to the present invention, the first and second control units 280 and 380 are formed integrally, and in addition to the operations related to the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine 200 and 300, the laundry processing device 100 ) controls the overall operation. The control unit can provide or process appropriate information or functions to the user by processing signals, data, information, etc. input or output through the components discussed above, or by running an application program stored in memory.

Hereinafter, an example in which the first and second control units 280 and 380 perform operations related to the laundry treatment device 100 while communicating with each other will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to this and can be applied when one control unit performs the operations of the first and second control units.

Meanwhile, the auxiliary washing machine 300 is located within a predetermined distance from the main washing machine 200. The predetermined distance refers to a distance at which the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine (200, 300) can perform mutual wired/wireless communication, and the predetermined distance may vary depending on the communication method.

For example, for the convenience of users using the main washing machine 200, the auxiliary washing machine 300 may be provided below the main washing machine 200. In other words, the auxiliary washing machine 300 can provide convenience to users who use the main washing machine 200 by raising the installation position of the main washing machine 200.

Meanwhile, when the auxiliary washing machine 300 is located below the main washing machine 200, the user must bend or squat while standing to operate the control panel 370. To solve this inconvenience, the laundry treatment device 100 according to the present invention uses the touch screen 222 provided in the main laundry device 200 to operate at least one of the main laundry device and the auxiliary laundry device 200 and 300. Provides a user interface to control. In other words, the main washing machine 200 can output a graphic interface for controlling the auxiliary washing machine 300 on the touch screen 222 depending on whether it is connected to the auxiliary washing machine 300.

Below, we will look at specific operations of the laundry treatment device 100.

Figure 4 is a flowchart representatively showing the control method of the present invention.

First, the first control unit 280 provided in the main washing machine 200 determines whether it is connected to the auxiliary washing machine 300 (S410).

The main washing machine 200 and the auxiliary washing machine 300 may be connected to or disconnected from each other according to the user's request. When the connection is made, the laundry treatment device 100 is controlled by the first control unit 280. When the connection is released, the main washing machine 200 is controlled by the first control unit 280 and the auxiliary washing machine 300 is individually controlled by the second control unit 380.

Meanwhile, the auxiliary washing machine 300 may be wiredly connected to the main washing machine 200 through a cable, or may be wirelessly connected to the main laundry machine 200 through wireless communication technology such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Specifically, the main washing machine 200 is provided with a first communication unit 250, and the auxiliary washing machine 300 is provided with a second communication unit 350, and the main washing machine 200 is provided by the first and second communication units 250 and 350. The washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine (200,300) can be connected. Also, each of the first and second control units 280 and 380 can determine whether or not they are interconnected.

The first control unit 280 controls the touch screen 222 to output visual information, and controls the touch screen 222 to output different information depending on whether it is connected to the auxiliary laundry device 300.

The first control unit 280 can determine whether to connect to the auxiliary washing machine 300 on a regular or irregular basis so that different information is output depending on whether it is connected. For example, connectivity may be determined periodically when the touch screen 222 is turned on. For another example, when the connection to the auxiliary washing machine 300 is disconnected and then connected, when the main laundry machine 200 is activated from standby, the power of the main laundry machine 200 is turned off and then turned on. If a preset event occurs, such as in the case of , connection may be determined irregularly.

Different information displayed on the touch screen 222 depending on whether it is connected or not is related to a user interface that enables input and output between at least one of the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine 200 and 300 and the user.

When the connection with the auxiliary washing device 300 is not established (or disconnected), the main washing device 200 provides a first user interface that enables input and output between the main washing device 200 and the user. do.

The first user interface includes icons (or icons included in the first group) associated with washing, spin-drying, and drying processes operated by the main washing machine 200.

In other words, if the connection with the auxiliary washing machine 300 is not established, the first control unit 280 outputs icons associated with functions that can be executed using the first washing machine 260 on the touch screen 222. (S430). While the touch screen 222 is turned on, icons included in the first group are displayed.

If a touch is applied while icons included in the first group are being output, the first control unit 280 executes the function associated with the touched icon using the first washing tub 260.

Meanwhile, when the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine 200 and 300 are connected, the main laundry machine 200 may provide a second user interface that enables input and output between the auxiliary laundry machine 300 and the user. The second user interface includes icons (or icons included in the second group) associated with washing, spin-drying, and drying processes operated by the auxiliary laundry device 300.

The first control unit 280 may selectively output one of the first and second user interfaces. This can selectively output either the first or second user interface. The size of the touch screen 222 is limited to display both the first and second user interfaces, and if both the first and second user interfaces are displayed, it may be difficult to find the icon you want to use among the many icons displayed on the touch screen. Because it does.

To this end, when connected to the auxiliary washing machine 300, the first control unit 280 uses a first graphic object to select the first washing tub 260 and a second graphic object to select the second washing tub 360. It is output on the touch screen 222 (S450).

Next, the first control unit 280 detects a touch applied to one of the first and second graphic objects (S470), and one of the first and second washing tubs 260 and 360 is activated based on the detected touch. Icons associated with executable functions can be output (S490).

More specifically, when a touch is applied to any one of the first and second graphic objects, the first control unit 280 selects one of the first and second washing tanks, and performs operations that the selected washing tank can execute. The touch screen 222 is controlled so that icons associated with functions are displayed. That is, one of the first and second user interfaces may be selectively output based on user input. In this way, since any one of a plurality of user interfaces for controlling different clothing processing devices is output selectively, the touch screen on the small screen is used efficiently, and the user can conveniently select the interface he or she wants to use. .

For example, when a touch is applied to a first graphic object, icons included in the first group are output, and when a touch is applied to a second graphic object, icons included in the second group are output. Based on the detected touch, icons included in the first group or icons included in the second group are selectively output.

If a touch is applied while icons included in the first group are being output, the first control unit 280 executes the function associated with the touched icon using the first washing tub 260.

In contrast, when a touch is applied while icons included in the second group are being output, the first control unit 280 transmits a control command so that the function associated with the touched icon is executed in the auxiliary laundry device 300.

More specifically, when a touch is applied to any icon included in the second group, the first control unit 280 executes a function associated with the touched icon to perform an auxiliary washing machine having a second washing tub 360 ( A washing command corresponding to the above function is transmitted to the auxiliary washing device 300 to be executed in 300). In this case, the auxiliary washing machine 300 uses the second washing tub 360 to execute a function corresponding to the transmitted control command.

Although not shown in the drawing, the connection between the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine 200 and 300 may be disconnected while the first and second graphic objects are displayed. In this case, the first control unit 280 controls the touch screen 222 so that the first and second graphic objects disappear and icons included in the first group are displayed.

According to this example, since the user can control a plurality of laundry treatment devices using the interface provided by a specific laundry treatment device, the problem of having to use the control unit provided in each laundry treatment device one by one can be solved. there is.

The control method related to the present invention described above may be embodied in various forms as shown in FIGS. 5 to 11. Hereinafter, in the detailed embodiments described, the same or similar reference numbers are assigned to the same or similar components as the previous example, and the description is replaced with the first description.

FIGS. 5, 6A, 6B, and 6C are exemplary diagrams showing an example in which the control method of FIG. 4 is applied.

As an example of such control, referring to FIG. 5, when the display of the touch screen 222 is turned off and then turned on, different information is output to the touch screen 222 depending on whether it is connected to the auxiliary laundry device 300. do.

For example, when the display of the touch screen 222 is turned on while not connected to the auxiliary washing machine 300, the main laundry machine control screen 510 is displayed on the touch screen 222. The main washing machine control screen 510 includes icons associated with functions that can be executed using the first washing tub 260, and includes icons included in the first group. Each icon included in the first group is linked to a function of executing washing, spin-drying, drying, etc. using the first washing machine.

When one of the icons is selected by touch, the selected icon 512 is highlighted so that it is distinguished from the remaining icons that are not selected.

This drawing shows an example in which icons included in the first group are arranged in a circle along the outer peripheral surface of the touch screen 222. At the center of the touch screen 222, information 514 explaining functions associated with the selected icon 512 may be displayed in the form of images, text, and videos. For example, when a first icon is selected, a description related to the first icon may be displayed in the central area of the touch screen 222. Thereafter, when a second icon is selected, the description related to the first icon is converted to a description related to the second icon.

According to this example, the icons arranged in a circle along the outer circumference of the circular display allow the user to check various icons at a glance. In addition, since the display of the icons remains the same and different icon descriptions are displayed in the central area of the touch screen 222 depending on the touch, the information desired by the user can be effectively conveyed without the displayed information significantly changing. In other words, a new type of user interface optimized for circular displays can be provided.

The main washing machine control screen 510 may include a virtual operation button 516 that causes the first washing tub 260 to operate with a function linked to the selected icon 512. When a second touch is applied to the virtual operation button 516 while an icon is selected by a first touch, a function associated with the selected icon is executed.

If the number of icons included in the first group exceeds a predetermined number, the main washing machine control screen 510 consists of a plurality of pages, and each page may include different icons.

If a touch input to continuously move from a first point to a second point is applied while one of the pages is being output, the first control unit 280 switches one page to another based on the touch input. You can switch to the page. The other page may vary depending on the direction of movement of the touch input.

The user can use the information included in the main washing machine control screen 510 to check the output related to the main washing machine and input a control command related to the main laundry machine.

Meanwhile, when the display of the touch screen 222 is turned on while connected to the auxiliary laundry device 300, the first graphic object 520 and the second graphic object 522 are displayed on the touch screen 222.

The display positions of the first and second graphic objects 520 and 522 may vary depending on the arrangement status of the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine 200 and 300. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, when the auxiliary washing machine 300 is placed below the main washing machine 200, the first graphic object 520 is relatively larger than the second graphic object 522. It is displayed above. Through this, the user can intuitively recognize which clothing processing device each graphic object is related to.

As another example of control, referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, as a touch is applied to any one of the first and second graphic objects 520 and 522, a group of icons corresponding to one of the first and second graphic objects 520 and 522 is displayed on the touch screen 222. can be output to .

For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, when a touch is applied to the first graphic object 520, the main washing machine control screen 510 is displayed on the touch screen 222, and accordingly, the first group Included icons are displayed.

Here, each icon included in the first group is linked to a function executed by the first washing tub 260 provided in the main washing machine 200.

Depending on the characteristics of the first washing tub 260, different icons may be included in the first group. For example, the functions that can be performed in the first washing tub vary depending on the size of the washing tub, the rotation axis of the washing tub, and the presence or absence of a heater that can heat the water input into the washing tub to a certain temperature, so the functions included in the first group accordingly. The icon will also change. That is, the icons included in the first group vary depending on the type of the main washing machine 200.

In contrast, as shown in FIG. 6B, when a touch is applied to the second graphic object 522, the auxiliary washing machine control screen 610 is displayed on the touch screen 222, and accordingly, it is included in the second group. icons are displayed.

Here, each icon included in the second group is linked to a function executed by the second washing tub 360 provided in the auxiliary washing machine 300. Icons included in the second group also vary depending on the characteristics of the second washing machine (or type of auxiliary washing machine). If the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine (200, 300) are the same product, the first and second groups include the same icons.

The first control unit 280 may receive icons included in the second group from the auxiliary laundry device 300 and create an auxiliary laundry device control screen 610 using the received icons. Alternatively, one group corresponding to the auxiliary laundry device 300 among the plurality of groups stored in the memory is determined as the second group, or icons corresponding to the auxiliary laundry device 300 are downloaded from a preset server. You can set the second group using icons saved and downloaded in memory.

In conclusion, icons included in the first group or icons included in the second group are selectively output according to user input, and when icons included in either the first or second group are output, the other icon is output. The output of icons included is limited.

Meanwhile, the main washing machine control screen 510 and the auxiliary washing machine control screen 610 may include the same icon.

As an example, a virtual operation button 516 may be commonly included. However, the virtual button included in the main washing machine control screen 510 operates or pauses the operation of the first washing machine 260, and the virtual button included in the auxiliary washing machine control screen 610 operates the second washing machine (260). 360) operates or pauses the operation. In other words, even if icons have the same shape, the functions associated with them may be related to different washing machines.

As another example, a virtual settings button 630 may be commonly included. Whether the main washing machine control screen 510 or the auxiliary washing machine control screen 610 is displayed, the virtual settings button 630 may be displayed on the touch screen 222 together, and the virtual settings button 630 may be touched. When is applied, a settings screen (not shown) is displayed on the touch screen 222.

Meanwhile, when icons included in the first group are output, a first background image is displayed on the touch screen 222, and icons included in the first group are displayed on the first background image.

In contrast, when icons included in the second group are output, a second background image different from the first background image is displayed on the touch screen 222, and the icon included in the second group is displayed on the second background image. are displayed. The second background image refers to an image that is different in shape, color, etc. from the first background image.

For example, the first background image may be an image filled with black, and the second background image may be an image filled with white.

Likewise, the background of the first graphic object 520 may be made of an image filled with black, and the background of the second graphic object 522 may be made of an image filled with white. Because the background image of the graphic object and the control screen are made up of the same or similar colors, the user can intuitively recognize which group of icons are displayed on the touch screen 222 or which washing machine has been selected.

In order to more clearly convey the selected washing machine, the first and second background images may further include text, video, symbols, etc. corresponding to each washing machine. As an example, the first image may include the name of the main laundry device 200, and the second image may include the name of the auxiliary laundry device 300.

Meanwhile, the first and second graphic objects may be transformed into various forms depending on the embodiment. The first graphic object is defined as the function of displaying icons included in the first group (or main washing machine control screen), and the second graphic object is defined as the function of displaying icons included in the second group (or auxiliary washing machine control screen). It can be defined as a function that displays a screen). If it satisfies the above definition, it may correspond to a first graphic object or a second graphic object regardless of its form.

Referring to FIG. 6C, when the main washing machine control screen 510 is output, a second graphic object 620 may be displayed together. In other words, the main washing machine control screen 510 may include the second graphic object 620.

In this case, the second graphic object 620 informs that the screen currently being displayed is the main washing machine control screen 510, and the first control unit controls the main washing machine when a touch is applied to the second graphic object 620. The control screen 510 is converted to the auxiliary washing machine control screen 610. That is, icons included in the first group may disappear and icons included in the second group may appear.

Alternatively, the auxiliary washing machine control screen 610 may include a first graphic object 622. The first graphic object 622 informs that the screen currently being displayed is the auxiliary washing machine control screen 610, and when a touch is applied to the first graphic object 622, the auxiliary washing machine control screen 610 is displayed on the main washing machine. It switches to the control screen (510).

Meanwhile, the first and second graphics objects may be displayed on the touch screen 222 by user input that satisfies preset conditions.

Figure 7 is a conceptual diagram showing a clothing processing device that displays first and second graphic objects in response to user input that satisfies preset conditions.

The first control unit 180 can output the first and second graphic objects as long as a user input that satisfies a preset condition is input, regardless of the information being displayed on the touch screen 222.

For example, a user input that satisfies a preset condition may be a touch input that starts from a predetermined area of the touch screen 222 and moves in a preset direction.

For example, as shown in FIG. 7, as a touch input starting from the 12 o'clock point of the touch screen 222 and moving to the 6 o'clock point is input, the curtain window 710 that covers the existing output screen is opened. An animation effect moving from the top of the touch screen 222 down to the bottom may occur.

The curtain window 710 includes first and second graphic objects 720 and 722. The first and second graphic objects 720 and 722 are made of transparent images, so that the previously displayed screen and the first and second graphic objects 720 and 722 may overlap. In this case, even if at least part of the existing output screen is visible, the touch input to the curtain window 710 may be defined as a control command to the curtain window 710.

When a touch is applied to the X mark included in the curtain window 710, the curtain window 710 disappears and the previously displayed screen is displayed. According to this driving method, the user can display or disappear the first and second graphic objects 720 and 722 as needed, thereby implementing a simple user interface. In addition, since the first and second graphic objects 720 and 722 do not always have to be displayed on the touch screen 222, it is possible to secure more areas where information can be displayed.

Furthermore, the curtain window 710 may further include status information of the clothing treatment device. The status information may include at least one of wireless communication on/off information, sound on/off information, child lock on/off information, information about set functions, and remote control on/off information. The user can not only easily check whether a function related to the settings of the clothing processing device is turned on or off, but can also simply turn a specific function on or off using the on/off information.

Meanwhile, user input that satisfies preset conditions may be modified in various ways depending on the embodiment. For example, when a touch input is applied to an empty space where a graphic object associated with a control function is not displayed on a turned-on touch screen multiple times in succession, the first and second graphic objects may be displayed. As another example, when a touch input of tapping a predetermined area of the touch screen that is turned off multiple times is applied continuously, the touch screen may be turned on and the first and second graphic objects may be displayed. To this end, the touch sensor of the touch screen may be turned on to detect a touch even while the display of the touch screen is turned off.

Hereinafter, the operations of each of the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine in the laundry treatment machine 100 including the main washing machine and the auxiliary laundry machine will be looked at in more detail.

Figure 8 is a flow showing the operation of the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine in the laundry treatment machine including the main washing machine and the auxiliary laundry machine.

The clothes processing device 100 includes a main laundry device and an auxiliary laundry device 200 and 300. The main laundry device 200 outputs at least one of a first user interface that performs input and output of the main laundry device 200 and a second user interface that performs input and output of the auxiliary laundry device 300 through the touch screen 222. do. Accordingly, the main washing device 200 operates as a master device that generates control commands according to user input, and the auxiliary washing device 300 operates as a slave ( It can operate as a slave) device. Hereinafter, it is assumed that the main washing machine 200 is operated by the first control unit 280 and the auxiliary washing machine 300 is operated by the second control unit 380.

First, the first control unit 280 controls the touch screen 222 to output icons included in the second group (S810). Since the method of outputting icons included in the second group has been described above, detailed description will be omitted.

Next, a touch applied to one of the icons included in the second group is detected (S820), and a washing command corresponding to the function associated with the touched icon is transmitted to the auxiliary washing device 300 (S830) ). For example, when a touch is applied to a first icon associated with a first function, a washing command corresponding to the first function is transmitted, and when a touch is applied to a second icon associated with a second function, the second icon is transmitted. A washing command corresponding to the function may be transmitted. In other words, the washing command varies depending on the icon touched.

The washing command may include a wakeup signal that turns on the auxiliary washing device 300 so that the function corresponding to the washing command can be executed even when the auxiliary washing device 300 is turned off. You can. That is, the auxiliary washing machine 300 can be turned on in response to the washing command.

Meanwhile, the second control unit 380 determines whether the function corresponding to the washing command can be executed in response to the transmitted washing command (S840). For example, the second control unit 380 may determine that washing is not possible when the clothing input port through which clothing can be inserted or removed is not closed by the second door 363. In addition, if the function corresponding to the washing command cannot be executed because another process is already being executed, or if the function corresponding to the washing command is a function that cannot be executed because it does not match the characteristics of the auxiliary washing device 300, the washing command is responded to. If the second washing tub 360 does not contain as much clothing as required by the function, washing may be in an impossible state.

If it is determined that the washing is not possible, the second control unit 380 transmits a washing not possible message to the main washing machine 200 (S850). The unwashable message may include the reason why the state was judged to be unwashable.

The first control unit 280 outputs notification information indicating that washing is not possible in response to the washing impossible message (S852). More specifically, notification information warning that the function associated with the touched icon cannot be performed in the auxiliary laundry device 300 may be output in at least one of visual, auditory, and tactile ways.

The notification information may include the reason why the state is determined to be unwashable. For example, if washing is not possible because the second door 363 is open, the notification information may include a message such as “Please close the door of the auxiliary washing machine.”

On the other hand, when it is determined that washing is possible, the second control unit 380 executes a function corresponding to the washing command and transmits a progress message informing the progress of the process to the main washing machine 200 (S860).

For example, when a first function consisting of a plurality of processes is executed, which of the plurality of processes is being performed, what is the progress of the process being performed, and how is the amount of energy, water, detergent, etc. used? Information regarding whether the process is successful may be included in the progress message.

The first control unit 280 outputs guidance information guiding the progress process in response to the progress message (S862). Specifically, the first control unit 280 receives a progress message informing the progress of the function as the function is executed in the auxiliary laundry device 300 by user input, and performs the function based on the received progress message. Prints guidance information to guide the process. The guidance information may be output in at least one of visual, auditory, and tactile ways.

Although not shown in the drawing, the first control unit 280 can output icons included in the first group, and when a touch is applied to any icon included in the first group, the function associated with the icon is applied to the first washing machine ( 260) can be used to run it. In this case, first guidance information guiding the washing progress of the first washing tank 260 may be output.

Hereinafter, the information guiding the washing process of the first washing tank 260 is referred to as 'first guidance information', and the information guiding the washing process of the second washing tank 360 is referred to as 'second guidance information'. It is called.

FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, and 9D are conceptual diagrams showing a method of outputting related information on a touch screen as a cycle is executed in at least one of the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine. Specifically, FIG. 9A is a conceptual diagram of first guidance information being output, FIG. 9B is a conceptual diagram of second guidance information being output, and FIGS. 9C and 9D are conceptual diagrams of first and second guidance information being output simultaneously.

When a function (or administration) is being executed in at least one of the first and second washing tubs 260 and 360, the first control unit 280 provides guidance information guiding the progress of the function being executed in the at least one. It is output on the touch screen (222).

For example, when a function is being executed in the first washing tub 260 and a function is not being executed in the second washing tub 360, first guidance information is output.

Referring to FIG. 9A, the first control unit 280 may output the main washing machine control screen 510 including icons included in the first group on the touch screen 222. When the first icon 900 is touched while outputting the icons included in the first group, the function associated with the first icon is selected, and when the virtual operation button 516 is touched, the first icon 900 is touched. The function linked to the icon is executed using the first washing tub 260. As the function linked to the first icon is executed, first guidance information 910 is displayed on the touch screen 222.

The first guide information 910 may include information about the process in progress in the first washing tank 260. Additionally, a virtual pause button 914 may be included to pause the operation being performed.

Meanwhile, the first control unit 180 counts the expected completion time of the function using at least one of the first and second washing tubs 260 and 360, and gradually increases the size along the edge of the touch screen 222 based on the counted time. A progress image 912 that changes to can be output.

Accordingly, the first guidance information 910 may further include a progress image 912 whose size gradually changes along the outer circumferential surface at one point of the touch screen 222 as the expected completion time changes.

The first point corresponds to the 12 o'clock point of the touch screen 222, and the progress image 912 may gradually unfold clockwise as time passes. In this way, through a user interface tailored to the characteristics of the circular display, the clothing processing device can inform the user of the remaining time in a new form.

Meanwhile, as the function progresses, the information included in the first guide information 910 changes. Specifically, while the function is in progress, the first guidance information 910 includes information guiding the progress of the function, but when the function is terminated, the first guidance information 910 includes information guiding the end of the function. . For example, when the function is terminated, the first guide information 910 may include information about the amount of energy, water, detergent, etc. used.

The first background image described above in FIG. 6A may be displayed below the first guide information 910. For example, since an image filled with black is displayed as the background image of the first guidance information 910, the user can intuitively recognize that the first guidance information 910 is for the first washing tub 260. It becomes possible.

Meanwhile, if the function is not being executed in the first washing tub 260 and the function is being executed in the second washing tub 360, second guide information is output.

Referring to FIG. 9B, the first control unit 280 may output an auxiliary washing machine control screen 610 including icons included in the second group on the touch screen 222. When a touch is applied to the second icon 902 while outputting icons included in the second group, the first control unit 280 selects a function associated with the second icon. Thereafter, when a touch is applied to the virtual operation button 516, the first control unit 280 sends a washing command to the auxiliary washing device 300 so that the function linked to the second icon is executed in the second external processing device 300. ) and send it to

As a function is executed in the auxiliary washing machine 300, the first control unit 280 receives a progress message informing the progress of the function, and guides the progress of the function based on the received progress message. 2 The guidance information 920 is output on the touch screen 222.

Like the first guidance information 910, the second guidance information 920 may include information about the process in progress in the second washing tank 260 and information about the time remaining until the function is terminated. Additionally, a virtual pause button 914 that pauses the currently running operation and a progress image 922 that guides the remaining time may be included.

As the function progresses, the information included in the second guide information 910 also changes.

The second background image described above in FIG. 6A may be displayed below the second guide information 920. For example, an image filled with white may be displayed as a background image of the second guide information 920.

Meanwhile, when a function is executed in one of the first and second washing tanks, guidance information corresponding to one of the washing tanks is displayed on the touch screen. Afterwards, the user can select another washing tub using a graphic object and execute a function for the other washing tub. The first guidance information 910 includes a second graphic object 620 so that the other washing tub can be selected while the guidance information for one of the washing tubs is displayed, and the second guidance information 920 A first graphic object 610 may be displayed. As a result, while a function is being executed in one washing machine, different functions can be executed simultaneously in each machine.

For example, as shown in FIG. 9C, when a touch is applied to the first graphic object 622 while the second guide information 920 is displayed, the first control unit 280 displays the second guide information 920. Switch to the main washing machine control screen (510). That is, as a touch is applied to the first graphic object 622, the second guide information 920 disappears and the main washing machine control screen 510 may appear.

Subsequently, the function for the first washing tub can be executed by a touch applied to the main washing machine control screen 510. As a result, the functions for the first washing tub and the functions for the second washing tub can be performed simultaneously. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the function executed in the first washing tub will be referred to as the 'first function', and the function executed in the second washing tub will be referred to as the 'second function'.

As the first and second functions are executed, the first control unit 280 displays first guide information 930 for the first function in the first area of the touch screen 222, and the touch screen 222 ) Displays second guide information 930 for the second function in the second area.

The positions of the first and second areas may vary depending on the arrangement of the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine (200,300). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, when the auxiliary washing machine 300 is disposed below the main washing machine 200, the first area is displayed relatively above the second area. Through this, the user can intuitively recognize which clothing processing device each piece of guidance information is related to.

Furthermore, the first background image described above in FIG. 6A may be displayed in the first area, and the second background image may be displayed in the second area. Since the first guidance information 930 is displayed on the first background image and the second guidance information 940 is displayed on the second background image, the first and second guidance information 930 and 940 can be easily distinguished.

The first guidance information 930 includes a first virtual operation/pause button 932 to pause or resume the first function, and the second guidance information 940 includes a first virtual operation/pause button 932 to pause or resume the second function. A second virtual action/pause button 942 may be included. The user can individually control the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine (200, 300) using the first and second virtual operation/pause buttons (940, 942).

Meanwhile, since the first and second functions proceed separately, one ends first.

When one of the first and second functions is terminated, the first control unit 280 stops outputting the first and second guidance information so that one of the first and second functions is terminated, and provides completion information. It can be output on the touch screen 222.

Here, the completion information includes at least one of the following: the name of the completed function, the start time when the function started, the end time when it ended, the total time the function was executed, the amount of energy, water, detergent, etc. used, and information about the clothing processing device that executed the function. It can be included.

One piece of completion information is output for a predetermined time, and when the predetermined time elapses, another piece of guidance information is output on the touch screen 222. Since one of the above is terminated, the output of the one of the guide information is also terminated, and the other guide information is displayed by expanding to an area including the first and second areas.

For example, as shown in FIG. 9D, first guidance information 932 for the first function is displayed in the first area and second guidance information 942 for the second function is displayed in the second area. The second function, which has a relatively fast completion time, is completed earlier than the first function.

When the second function is terminated, the first and second guide information 930 and 940 disappear from the touch screen 222 and the completion information 950 of the second function is displayed in the area including the first and second areas for a predetermined time. . For example, completion information 950 of the second function may be displayed on the entire area of the touch screen 222.

After a predetermined time, the completion information 950 of the second function disappears from the touch screen 222 and the first guidance information 930' is displayed. Since the display of the second guidance information 940 is terminated upon termination of the second function, the first and second areas are integrated, and the first guidance information 930' is displayed in the area including the first and second areas. will be displayed.

Thereafter, when the first function is terminated, the first guidance information 930' disappears and completion information 960 of the first function is displayed on the touch screen 222 for a predetermined period of time. After a predetermined time, the touch screen 222 may be turned off or turned on and display the first and second graphic objects 520 and 522 shown in FIG. 5 .

FIGS. 10A and 10B are conceptual diagrams showing a method of controlling the sound output of each laundry treatment device.

Information output from the clothing processing device 100 may not only be output in a visual manner, but may also be output in a mixed visual and auditory manner. Since the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine 200 and 300 each have separate output units 240 and 340, there is a risk that their outputs may overlap. In particular, there is a problem that the output of the auditory method overlaps.

For example, while the first function is terminated and the first completion information is output audibly through the first output unit 240, the second function is terminated and the second completion information is output to the second output unit 340. It can be output through . Because the first and second completion information are output simultaneously from different output units, an overlap problem occurs.

In order to solve this problem, the first control unit 280 of the main washing machine 200 corresponding to the master device, when the auxiliary washing machine 300 corresponding to the slave device is connected, the second output unit 340 The second control unit 380 and/or the second output unit 340 may be restricted so that no output is generated.

More specifically, the first control unit 280 may detect a situation in which output should be generated from the second output unit 380 while communicating with the second control unit 380. In this case, the first control unit 280 may output information to be output from the second output unit 340 using the first output unit 240. The second output unit 340 is controlled by the first control unit 280 and/or the second control unit 380 so that the corresponding information is not output.

Meanwhile, the first control unit 280 outputs the output related to the first washing tub 260 using the first output unit 240, and outputs related to the second washing tub 360 using the second output unit 340. You can print it using .

For example, as shown in FIG. 10A, when a touch is applied to the first graphic object 520, the first washing machine 260 is selected and the main washing machine control screen 510 is displayed on the touch screen 222. , a notification sound indicating that the first washing tank 260 has been selected may be output from the first output unit 240. When an event occurs due to a touch applied to the main washing machine control screen 510, auditory information according to the generated event is output through the first output unit 240.

For another example, when a touch is applied to the second graphic object 522, the second washing tub 360 is selected and the auxiliary washing machine control screen 610 is output on the touch screen 222. A notification sound indicating that has been selected may be output from the second output unit 340. Afterwards, when an event occurs in the auxiliary washing machine 300, auditory information according to the generated event is output through the second output unit 340.

Meanwhile, if an event that requires outputting the second information to the second output unit 340 occurs while the first information is being output to the first output unit 240, the first control unit 280 outputs the first information. After completion, an output limit command is transmitted to the auxiliary washing machine 300 so that the second information is output. According to the output limit command, the second output unit 340 outputs the second information after the output of the first information is completed.

For example, if the second function is terminated while the first complete information is output in an auditory manner through the first output unit 240, the second complete information is output after the output of the first complete information is terminated. The second control unit 380 and/or the second output unit 340 may be controlled.

Conversely, if an event that requires outputting the first information to the first output unit 240 occurs while the second information is being output to the second output unit 340, the first control unit 280 may output the second information. The output of the first output unit 240 is limited until the end, and after the output of the second information is finished, the first information is output using the first output unit 240.

Meanwhile, the first and second functions are performed separately, but may be terminated simultaneously, or one may be terminated while completion information of one is being output. In this case, there is a problem because the first and second completion information may be output overlapping.

When the first and second functions are terminated at the same time, the first control unit 280 outputs the completion information that started first for a predetermined time, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, outputs the other completion information for a predetermined time. do. As a result, the information output to the touch screen 222 does not overlap.

Because different information is prevented from being simultaneously output through each output unit, the user can use the laundry treatment device including a plurality of washing devices without confusion.

Meanwhile, even if there is no touch applied to any one of the first and second graphic objects, one of the first and second user interfaces may be selectively output by artificial intelligence. We will look in detail at how to selectively output one interface using artificial intelligence based on user behavior.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are conceptual diagrams showing a method of controlling information output to the touch screen based on user behavior.

Referring to FIG. 11A, the first control unit 280 uses a touch screen to output the main washing machine control screen 510 when the state of the first door 220 provided in the main laundry machine 200 changes due to an external force. Control 222. Specifically, when the first door 220 is switched from the first state to the second state by an external force, icons included in the first group are displayed on the touch screen 222.

Here, the first state may mean an open state in which the first door 220 is open at the clothing input port, and the second state may mean a closed state in which the first door 220 is closing the clothing input port. The reason the user switches the first door 220 to the closed state is because he or she intends to use the first washing tub 260.

Regardless of the type of information being output, the main washing machine control screen 510 is output on the touch screen 222 according to a change in the state of the first door 220.

Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 11b, when a preset state change is detected while the touch screen 222 is turned off, the first control unit 280 turns on the touch screen 222 and displays information corresponding to the state change. Control the touch screen 222 as much as possible.

For example, when the drawer housing 330 is pulled out from the second body 310 and then inserted into the second body 310, the first control unit 280 displays icons included in the second group. Controls the touch screen 222. If the touch screen 222 is turned off, the first control unit 280 turns on the turned off touch screen 222 so that icons included in the second group are displayed. This is because the user has the intention to use the second washing tub 360.

Although not shown in the drawing, when the second door 363 provided in the auxiliary washing machine 300 changes from the open state to the closed state, the first control unit 280 uses a touch screen to output icons included in the second group. (222) can be controlled. That is, the auxiliary laundry device control screen 610 may be output on the touch screen 222 according to a change in the status of the second door 63.

To enable such control, the second control unit 380 detects changes in the status of components provided in the auxiliary washing machine 300, and when the detected status change satisfies a preset condition, it sends a status change message to the first control unit. Send to (280). The first control unit 280 controls the touch screen 222 to display the auxiliary washing machine control screen 610 in response to the received status change message.

Figure 12 is a conceptual diagram for explaining operations related to the child lock function.

The first control unit may execute a child lock function based on user input.

Here, the child lock function refers to a function that prevents malfunctions and accidents caused by children by controlling hardware buttons or software buttons to not operate. When the child lock function is executed, execution of functions by touch is restricted even if a touch is applied to the touch screen. Only the touch input that disables the child lock function is valid, and other touch inputs are ignored.

According to the figure, when the child lock function is executed while the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine (200, 300) are connected, the first control unit 280 assists the locking command so that the child lock function is also executed in the auxiliary washing machine (300). Transmitted to the washing machine 300. The second control unit 380 executes the child lock function in response to the received lock command.

The user can execute the child lock function on the main laundry machine and the auxiliary laundry machine (200, 300) using the touch screen 222 provided in the main laundry machine (200).

As the child lock function is executed in the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine (200, 300), an indicator 1210 indicating that the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine (200, 300) are locked may be output. Through this, the user can recognize that both the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine (200, 300) are locked.

Figure 13 is a conceptual diagram showing a method of connecting or disconnecting the main washing machine with the auxiliary washing machine based on user input.

According to FIG. 13, the first control unit 280 controls the first communication unit 350 to connect to the auxiliary washing machine 300 or disconnect it based on user input.

When connected to the auxiliary laundry device 300, the first control unit 280 may output connection status information 1310 that guides the connection status with the auxiliary laundry device 300 on the touch screen 222.

Here, the connection status information 1310 is information related to the auxiliary washing machine 300 and may include at least one of the name, manufacturer, and product number, and visually shows the arrangement positions of the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine 200 and 300. It may further include placement status information 1312.

When a release command to disconnect from the auxiliary laundry device 300 is received from the user, the first control unit 280 can disconnect the connection. Thereafter, the display of icons included in the second group is restricted on the touch screen 222, and icons included in the first group are displayed.

According to this example, depending on the usage style, the user can manage the clothing processing system integratedly using the main laundry device 200 or use it as an individual device rather than the clothing processing system.

Figure 14 is a conceptual diagram showing a clothing treatment device that allows use of a new washing function developed by a third party in addition to the preset washing function.

The main washing machine 200 can easily install not only the washing functions preset in memory but also new washing functions developed by a third party upon user request.

More specifically, the first control unit 280 selects one of the main washing machine and the auxiliary washing machine 200 and 300 included in the laundry processing device 100 based on user input and performs You can download functions by connecting to a preset server.

For example, based on a user request, functions that can be executed in the auxiliary laundry device 300 can be downloaded from a preset server. The first control unit 280 may set the downloaded icons to icons included in the second group. Icons corresponding to the auxiliary laundry device 300 can be downloaded from a preset server and stored in memory, and a second group can be set using the downloaded icons.

Furthermore, the first control unit 280 may set at least one of the type, output order, and output location of the icons included in the second group based on user input, or reset the existing settings to another setting.

For example, as shown in the first drawing of FIG. 14, for an auxiliary laundry device called 'LG Tongdori', when functions A to F are preset to the second group, functions A to F are respectively The corresponding icon is displayed at the preset output position.

When a download request for 'LG Tongdori' is received, the first control unit 280 can download the G function or M function, which are new functions that can be executed in 'LG Tongdori', from a preset server. When the download is completed, as shown in the second diagram of FIG. 14, icons corresponding to the pre-stored A to F functions and the newly downloaded G to M functions are displayed on the touch screen 222. It is displayed at (222).

Thereafter, the first control unit 280 may add a new icon to the second group, delete a preset icon, or change the display position of the preset icon based on the user input. For example, as shown in the third drawing of FIG. 14, when a user input of dragging and dropping the L icon corresponding to the L function to the position where the C icon corresponding to the C function is displayed is detected, the first control unit ( 280) can delete the C icon from the second group and add the L icon. The L icon is output at the location where the C icon was output.

As a result, users can build an interface optimized for themselves and use new functions developed by third parties by installing them in their clothing processing device.

The above-described present invention can be implemented as computer-readable code on a program-recorded medium. Computer-readable media includes all types of recording devices that store data that can be read by a computer system. Examples of computer-readable media include ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, and optical data storage devices, and are also implemented in the form of a carrier wave (e.g., transmitted via the Internet). It also includes Additionally, the computer may include a terminal control unit 180.

Accordingly, the above detailed description should not be construed as restrictive in all respects and should be considered illustrative. The scope of the present invention should be determined by reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all changes within the equivalent scope of the present invention are included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims (23)

first and second cabinets forming an outline;
a first washing tub provided in the first cabinet;
a second washing tub provided in the second cabinet;
a touch screen provided in the first cabinet or the second cabinet; and
It includes a control unit that controls the touch screen,
The control unit,
When a touch input that satisfies a preset condition is applied to the touch screen, a first graphic for selecting the first washing tub is displayed on an existing screen displayed on the touch screen before a touch input that satisfies the preset condition is applied. A laundry treatment device that controls the touch screen to output an object and a second graphic object for selecting the second washing machine. According to claim 1,
It further includes a first door configured to open and close the clothes input port of the first washing tank,
The first door is,
a door frame rotatably coupled to the first cabinet; and
It is coupled to the door frame to form an exterior of the first door, and includes a door cover having a light transmitting area,
The touch screen is mounted on the door frame and outputs visual information through a light-transmitting area of the door cover. According to claim 1,
The control unit,
When a touch is applied to any one of the first graphic object and the second graphic object, the touch screen is controlled to output icons associated with functions that can be executed by the washing machine selected by one of the washing machines. Clothing processing equipment. According to clause 3,
The control unit,
When the first graphic object is selected, the touch screen is controlled to output icons included in a first group among the icons, and when the first graphic object is selected, icons included in a second group among the icons are output. A clothing processing device characterized in that it controls the touch screen as much as possible. According to clause 4,
The control unit,
When icons included in one of the first group and the second group are output, output of icons included in the other group is limited. According to clause 4,
The control unit,
When a touch input that satisfies the preset condition is applied to the touch screen while icons included in any one of the first group and the second group are output, the first graphic object and the second graphic object A clothing processing device that controls the touch screen to output graphic objects. According to clause 6,
The control unit
When a touch is applied to the second graphic object output while the icons included in the first group are displayed on the touch screen, the icons included in the first group disappear, and the icons included in the second group are output. A clothing processing device characterized in that it controls the touch screen as much as possible. According to clause 4,
When the first washing tub is selected, a first image is output on the touch screen, and icons included in the first group are displayed on the first image,
When the second washing tub is selected, a second image different from the first image is output on the touch screen, and icons included in the second group are displayed on the second image. According to clause 4,
It further includes a drawer housing that can be introduced into or withdrawn from the second cabinet through an opening formed in the front of the second cabinet,
The second washing tub is provided in the drawer housing,
The first washing tub rotates around a first rotation axis,
The second washing tub is a laundry treatment device, characterized in that the second washing tub rotates about a second rotation axis that intersects the first rotation axis. According to clause 9,
Each of the icons included in the first group is linked to a function that the first washing machine can execute according to the characteristics of the first rotation axis,
Each of the icons included in the second group is linked to a function that can be performed by the second washing machine according to the characteristics of the second rotation axis. According to clause 4,
The control unit,
When a touch is applied to a first icon while outputting icons included in the first group, a function linked to the first icon is executed using the first washing machine,
When a second icon is touched while outputting icons included in the second group, a function associated with the second icon is executed using the second washing tub. According to claim 1,
The control unit
A laundry treatment device, wherein when a function using one of the first and second washing tubs is being executed, the touch screen is controlled to output guidance information guiding the progress of the function using one of the washing tubs. first and second cabinets forming an outline;
a first washing tub provided in the first cabinet;
a second washing tub provided in the second cabinet;
a touch screen provided in the first cabinet or the second cabinet; and
It includes a control unit that controls the touch screen,
The control unit
When a function using either the first washing machine or the second washing machine is being executed, controlling the touch screen to output guidance information guiding the progress of the function using one of the washing machines,
When a touch input that satisfies a preset condition is applied to the touch screen while outputting the guide information, a first graphic object for selecting the first washing tub and a second graphic object for selecting the second washing tub are output. A clothing processing device characterized in that it controls the touch screen as much as possible. According to claim 13,
When the first and second graphic objects are output while outputting the guide information, the first and second graphic objects are made of transparent images, and the guide information overlaps the first and second graphic objects,
A clothing processing device, characterized in that a touch input to any one of the first and second graphic objects generates a control command for one of the first and second graphic objects. According to claim 1,
The control unit,
When the first function using the first washing tub and the second function using the second washing tub are being executed, first guidance information guiding the progress of the first function is displayed in the first area of the touch screen. , A laundry treatment device that controls the touch screen to output second guidance information guiding the progress of the second function in a second area different from the first area. According to claim 15,
A first virtual button for stopping or resuming the first function is displayed in the first area, and a second virtual button for stopping or resuming the second function is displayed in the second area. Device. According to claim 11,
The touch screen is formed in a circular shape,
The control unit,
When a function using one of the above is executed, the expected completion time of the function using one of the above is counted, and an image whose size gradually changes along the edge of the touch screen is output based on the counted time. A clothing processing device characterized in that it controls. According to clause 4,
It further includes a first door configured to open and close the clothes input port of the first washing tank,
The control unit,
A laundry treatment device, characterized in that when the first door is switched from the first state to the second state by an external force, the touch screen is controlled to output icons included in the first group. According to clause 18,
The first state is an open state in which the door is open at the clothing input port, and the second state is a closed state in which the door is closing the clothing input port. According to clause 19,
It further includes a second door provided to open and close the clothes input port of the second washing tank,
The control unit,
When the second door is switched from the first state to the second state by an external force, the touch screen is controlled to output icons included in the second group. According to claim 1,
The control unit,
A clothing treatment device that controls the touch screen so that the first graphic object and the second graphic object are output or disappear when a touch input that satisfies the preset condition is applied to the touch screen. According to claim 1,
The control unit,
A clothing treatment device that controls the touch screen to output a window displaying the first graphic object and the second graphic object when a touch input that satisfies the preset condition is applied to the touch screen. According to clause 22,
The control unit,
A clothing processing device that controls the touch screen so that the window is displayed on the existing screen in an overlap manner.

Images