KR20100122275A - Washing machine and control method the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: A washing machine and a control method thereof are provided to drastically reduce the water consumption since the water can be used for following washing stroke, rinsing stroke, drying stroke or the washing stroke or rinsing stroke for other tub. CONSTITUTION: A control method of a washing machine is as follows. It is determined whether there is a tub in operation. If yes, the water used for the operation is circulated to a non-operating tub. Whether there is a tub in operation is determined based on whether there is a tub, which performs any one of a washing stroke, a rinsing stroke, a spin-drying stroke and a drying stroke.

Description

Washing machine and its control method {WASHING MACHINE AND CONTROL METHOD THE SAME}

The present invention relates to a washing machine having a plurality of washing tanks and a control method thereof.

In general, a washing machine (typically, a drum washing machine) is a device that includes a washing tub for washing contaminated laundry using water and detergent. The washing machine proceeds with a series of operations such as washing stroke, rinsing stroke and dehydration stroke.

When washing, depending on the type and material of the laundry may not be able to put together in one washing tank, the washing machine with one washing tank had to be put together to separate the laundry that can not be put separately and washed separately. In this case, the inconvenience of separate washing and the washing machine must be operated several times (for example, two times), which causes a great waste of time and energy. In addition, even when a small amount of laundry is to be washed, if the washing tank is a large capacity, the large capacity of the washing tank has to be driven, resulting in unnecessary waste of power.

In addition, the washing machine performs the entire washing process by separating the washing stroke, the rinsing stroke, and the dehydrating stroke, and a considerable amount of water is consumed because the washing water is directly discharged to the outside without reusing the washing water. Moreover, the rinsing stroke is performed at least three times depending on the amount of laundry or the user's choice, and in many cases, even larger amounts of water are consumed since it is also performed five or six times. In particular, the water used for the last rinsing during the rinsing stroke is a relatively clean water is not recycled, but is discarded to the outside as it is, there is a problem that the water consumption of the washing machine increases.

On the other hand, recently, such a washing machine is provided with a drying function to perform a drying stroke for drying the laundry dehydrated. The washing machine having a drying function is provided with a drying apparatus for drying the laundry by blowing heat by the drying heater into the accommodation space containing the laundry. Such a washing machine performs a drying function alone using this drying apparatus, or performs a drying function after completion of dehydration in connection with a washing function.

During operation of the washing machine, when the drying stroke is started, the blower fan is operated, and the drying heater is turned on so that the heat from the drying heater is blown into the rotating tank. The laundry is dried while the laundry in the rotating tub rotates along the rotating tub and falls to the bottom. The hot air blown into the rotating tub is sucked into the blowing fan side by riding on the wall of the tub while absorbing moisture contained in the laundry. At this time, the moisture contained in the air circulated inside the rotating tank and sucked back into the blowing fan is condensed on the wall of the washing tank by cold water supplied to the wall of the washing tank from the condensing hose connected to the external water source, and flows downward. A small amount of condensed water that is collected is discharged to the outside along the discharge hole.

However, in order to proceed with the drying process, water must be supplied from the outside. In addition, although the water thus supplied is relatively clean water, it cannot be recycled and is discarded as it is, so that the water consumption of the washing machine is increased.

One aspect of the present invention provides a washing machine and a control method thereof capable of reducing the amount of water used in a washing machine having a plurality of washing tanks as much as possible.

To this end, the control method of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is a control method of a washing machine having a plurality of washing tanks, it is determined whether there is a washing tank in operation, and if there is a washing tank in operation, the water used for the operation is Moving to a non-operating wash tub.

Determining whether there is a washing tank in operation includes determining whether there is a washing tank performing any one of a washing stroke, a rinsing stroke, a dehydrating stroke, and a drying stroke.

Determining whether there is a washing tank in operation includes determining whether there is a washing tank in the last rinsing.

Determining whether there is a washing tank in operation includes determining whether there is a washing tank under drying.

Detecting the water level of the water generated in the drying process of the operation of the washing tank, and if the detected water level is more than a predetermined value, comprising moving the water generated in the drying process to the non-operating washing tank.

And storing the water transferred to the non-operating washing tank until the operation of the working washing tank is finished.

Water transferred to the non-operating washing tank is provided when the working washing tank performs either the next washing stroke or rinsing stroke.

In addition, the control method of the washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention is a control method of a washing machine having a plurality of washing tanks, it is determined whether there is a washing tank in operation, and if there is a washing tank in operation, the water used for the operation Determining if movement is necessary, and if movement of water used for the operation is necessary, moving the water used for the operation to a non-operating washing tank.

Determining whether the movement of the water used for the operation is necessary includes determining whether the washing tank in operation has completed the last rinsing, and determining whether the water level generated in the drying process reaches a preset value.

In addition, the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of washing tanks, a water moving device for moving water between the plurality of washing tanks, and the water moving device to control the water used to move the water used in the operating washing tank to another washing tank. It includes a control unit.

The controller includes moving the water used for the last rinsing or drying operation to the non-operation.

The control unit may include moving the water used in the washing tank performing any one of the washing stroke, the rinsing stroke, the dehydrating stroke, or the drying stroke to the non-operating washing tank.

The control unit includes storing the water moved to the other washing tank until the operation of the working washing tank is finished.

The control unit provides the water moved to the other washing tank when the working washing tank performs either the next washing stroke or the rinsing stroke.

The water moving device includes at least one connecting pipe connecting two washing tanks, and an opening / closing valve and a pump provided in the connecting pipe.

The connecting pipe may include one end connected to at least one of a drain pipe of the first washing tank or a condensation duct of the first washing tank, and the other end of the connecting pipe may be connected to at least one of the drain pipe of the second washing tank or the condensation duct of the second washing tank. .

As described above, according to an embodiment of the present invention, dozens of liters of water is stored in the next washing stroke or rinsing stroke or other by moving to a non-operating washing tank without draining the rinsing water at the last rinsing or the condensate at the time of drying. It can be used for washing or rinsing cycle of the washing tank can greatly reduce the water consumption of the washing machine.

In addition, according to another embodiment of the present invention, by moving the water used in the washing machine in operation to the non-operating washing tank or storing new water received by the water in the non-operating washing tank serves as the balance weight of the overall washing machine The overall vibration and noise of the washing machine can be reduced.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 shows an appearance of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in Figure 1, the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided with a plurality of (11, for example) doors 11, 12 into which the laundry is put into the upper and lower parts of the main body 10 forming the appearance. Between the plurality of doors 11 and 12, an input unit 400 for inputting a user command related to the operation of the washing course and the washing machine and a display unit 410 for displaying the operating states of the washing course and the washing machine are provided. .

The input unit 400 simultaneously washes / drys or performs independent washing using a power button, an operation / stop button for starting an operation of a washing machine, and a plurality of washing tanks capable of washing laundry separately. It includes a washing tank selection button for selecting a washing tank to be used to proceed the operation, such as / drying, and a course and a function button for selecting a washing course and a washing function for each washing tank. The shape of the input unit 400 is not necessarily limited thereto and may be configured in various forms.

In addition, detergent supply parts 21 and 22 for supplying detergents to a plurality of washing tanks are provided at the upper left and left centers of the main body 10, respectively.

In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the detergent supply units 21 and 22 are respectively provided for supplying detergents to the plurality of washing tanks, but the detergents are supplied to each of the washing tanks by separating the flow paths of the detergents supplied to the plurality of washing tanks. It is also possible to implement the detergent supply unit 21 or 22 as one. In addition, the position of the detergent supply unit 21, 22 is not necessarily limited to this can be installed in any position where the user is easy to put detergent.

2 shows a configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 2, a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of washing tanks (eg, two) that can separate and wash laundry according to the capacity or type of laundry in the body 10. The first and second washing tanks 31 for washing a large capacity (for example, 13 Kg) are installed on the lower side, and the second washing tank 32 for washing a small capacity (for example, 3 Kg) is provided on the upper side. Is installed.

Although the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32 may be configured as washing tanks having the same capacity as necessary, the washing tanks having a plurality of washing tanks 31 and 32 may be separately installed in a large capacity and a small capacity. desirable. As mentioned above, this is to prevent unnecessary waste of power by driving only a small amount of the second washing tank 32 when washing a small amount of laundry (particularly, boiled washing).

The basic configuration of the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32 is the same, and the first and second drums 41 and 42 of the cylindrical shape having a plurality of holes formed therein are rotatably installed, respectively. A drive device for rotating the first and second rotary shafts 51 and 52 connected to the first and second drums 41 and 42 to perform washing, rinsing and dehydration strokes outside the rear side of the second washing tanks 31 and 32. The first and second motors 61 and 62 are respectively installed. The first and second motors 61 and 62 are not necessarily limited thereto, and the first and second motors 61 and 62 may be implemented to simultaneously or independently drive each washing tank by a driving method using one motor, a driving belt and a clutch.

First and second laundry heaters 71 and 72 for heating water in the first and second laundry tanks 31 and 32 are respectively installed in the lower side of the first and second laundry tanks 31 and 32, respectively. First and second water supply devices 101 and 102 for supplying water (washing water or rinsing water) to the respective washing tanks are installed at the upper portions of the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32. The first and second water supply devices 101 and 102 are provided with external water supply pipes 110 and first and second water supplies for supplying water (washing water or rinsing water) into the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32. First and second water supply valves installed in the middle of the first and second water supply pipes 121 and 122 and the first and second water supply pipes 121 and 122 connecting the detergent supply units 21 and 22 to control water supply. 131, 132. This configuration allows the water supplied into the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32 to pass through the first and second detergent supply units 21 and 22 so that the first and second detergent supply units 21 and 22 are internal. Detergent is to be supplied to the first and second washing tanks (31, 32) with water.

In addition, the embodiment of the present invention is provided with the first and second drying apparatus (201, 202) for drying the laundry in the first and second washing tank (31, 32). The first and second drying apparatuses 201 and 202 are installed on top of the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32 to introduce hot air into the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32. And second drying ducts 211 and 212 and first and second condensation ducts 221 and 222 installed at rear portions of the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32 to remove wet steam generated during the drying process. First and second drying heaters 231 and 232 and first and second drying fans 241 and 242 installed in the first and second drying ducts 211 and 212 to supply hot air; Condensation means is installed in the first and second condensation duct (221, 222). The condensing means is provided inside the first and second condensation ducts 221 and 222 to first and second injection nozzles 281 and 282 for injecting cold water, and the first and second injection nozzles 281 and 282. The first and second cold water supply hoses 251 and 252 for supplying cold water to the first and second cold water supply hoses 251 and 252, and are opened and closed to supply cold water. 2 cold water valve (261, 262) is provided. One side and the first and second drain pipes 311 and 312 having a discharge port for discharging water condensed at the bottom of the first and second condensation ducts 221 and 222 may include the first and second drain hoses 271 and 272. Are connected by

This configuration is characterized in that the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32 after the air blown by the operation of the first and second drying fans 241 and 242 are heated through the first and second drying heaters 231 and 232. It is to be supplied to the inside of the) it is possible to heat dry the laundry inside, the wet steam generated during the drying process of the laundry through the first and second condensation ducts (221, 222) the first and second drying fan ( 241, 242) in the process of being sucked to the air to remove the water.

The first and second condensation ducts 221 and 222 may include the first and second air outlets 291 and 292 and the first and second washing tanks formed at the lower rear of the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32. 31, 32 to form a flow path that connects between the suction ports of the first and second drying fans 241, 242, which is formed to bend to a predetermined curvature, the open one surface of the first and second washing tank The rear surfaces 31 and 32 are closely coupled to the suction ports of the first and second drying fans 241 and 242. Accordingly, when circulating air such as a drying stroke, the first and second air outlets 291 of the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32 are operated by the first and second drying fans 241 and 242. 292, first and second condensation ducts 221 and 222, first and second drying fans 241 and 242, first and second drying ducts 211 and 212, and first and second washing tanks 31, 32) to circulate through the air inlet. Water supplied to the first and second condensation ducts 221 and 222 passes through the first and second condensation ducts 221 and 222 and is collected into the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32. The water is periodically pumped by the first and second drainage devices 301 and 302 described later to be drained to the outside, or is inactive by the water transfer device 500 described later (first or second washing tank). Is moved to) and saved. Here, the non-operating washing tank refers to a washing tank which is not controlled, such as a washing tank which is stopped or a washing tank before a washing administration. As will be described later, the reason for moving the water to the non-operating washing tank is that the non-operating washing tank has fewer factors that can affect the existing control, such as whether the laundry is wet or the amount of water is increased. Reference numerals 81 and 82 denote first and second water level detection units, and detect the water level generated during the drying process.

In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first and second drying apparatuses 201 and 202 are provided to dry the laundry in the first and the second washing tanks 31 and 32, respectively. It is also possible to install the drying apparatuses 211 and 212 only in any one of the washing tanks 31 or 32 among the washing tanks 31 and 32. FIG. That is, the first drying apparatus 211 may be installed only in the first washing tank 31. At this time, the pump 503 can be omitted. In addition, the second drying apparatus 212 may be provided only in the second washing tank 32.

In addition, the embodiment of the present invention provides first and second drains 301 and 302 for draining the water in the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32. The first and second drainage devices 301 and 302 may include first and second drain pipes 311 and 312 connected to the lower parts of the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32 to guide water to the outside, and the first and second drainage pipes 311 and 312. And first and second drain pumps 321 and 322 installed in the second drain pipes 311 and 312 and communicate with the external drain pipe 330, respectively.

In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first and second drain pumps 321 and 322 are respectively installed to drain the water of the first and the second washing tanks 31 and 32, but the second is located in the upper part of the washing machine. In the case of the washing tank 32, it is possible to implement the drainage valve to drain the water inside the second washing tank 32 in a natural dropping manner.

In addition, the embodiment of the present invention is to move the water in the first washing tank 31 to the second washing tank 32 or to move the water of the second washing tank 32 to the first washing tank 31, such as in the operating washing tank. And a water moving device 500 for moving the used water to the non-operating washing tank. At this time, the water generated in the drying process includes water condensed by water supplied from the external water supply source, and water supplied with water contained in the air discharged from the washing tank. The water moving device 500 includes a connecting pipe 501 connecting the first drain pipe 311 of the first washing tank 31 and the second drain pipe 312 of the second washing tank 32, and the connecting pipe 501. It includes an on-off valve 502 and the pump 503 installed in. The connection pipe 501 may include a front end of the first drain pump 321 provided in the first drain pipe 311 of the first washing tank 31 and a second drain pump provided in the second drain pipe 312 of the second washing tank 32 ( 322) Connect the shear. At this time, the connecting pipe 501 is connected to the first drain hose 271 and the second drain hose 272 of the first condensation duct 221 and the second washing tank 32 of the first washing tank 31. The second condensation duct 222 may be connected.

In addition, one end of the connection pipe 501 may be connected to any one or both of the first drain pipe 311 and the first condensation duct 221, and the other end of the connection pipe 501 and the second condensation duct 222. ) Can be linked to either or both. That is, the connection pipe 501 is connected to the drain pipe of the operating tank and the drain pipe of the non-operating washing tank, or to connect the condensation duct of the washing tank in operation and the drain pipe of the non-operating washing tank, The condensation duct of the washing tank may be connected, or the condensation duct of the washing tank in operation and the condensation duct of the non-operating washing tank may be connected.

The connection pipe 501 is provided with an on-off valve 502 and a pump 503. For example, the opening and closing valve 502 may be located near the connection portion with the second drain pipe 312 of the connection pipe 501. In this case, when it is not necessary to send the water in the first washing tank 31 to the second washing tank 32 through the connecting pipe 501, the difference in the portion communicating with the first drain pipe 311 of the connecting pipe 501 Reduce the amount of water present In addition, the pump 503 may be located near the connection with the first drain pipe 311. In this case, when it is necessary to send the water in the second washing tank 32 into the first washing tank 31 through the connecting pipe 501, the pumping efficiency can be improved and the water stored in the second washing tank 32 later When the pump is sent to the first washing tank 31, the pumping efficiency can be improved.

3 shows a schematic control configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 3, the washing machine according to the embodiment of the present invention includes an input unit 400, a control unit 402, and a driving unit 404.

The input unit 400 controls the washing course (for example, simultaneous washing / drying or independent washing / drying) of the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32 selected for simultaneous or independent use, and operation information regarding a washing function. Enter at 402. When an input command by a user is input through the input unit 400, each device is controlled by the controller 402. That is, the first and second motors 61 and 62, the first and second laundry heaters 71 and 72, the first and second water feed valves 131 and 132, and the first and second motors necessary for washing / dehydrating / drying strokes. Second drying heaters 231 and 232, first and second drying fans 241 and 242, first and second cold water valves 261 and 262, first and second drain pumps 321 and 322 and on / off valves 502 , And the pump 503 is controlled by the control unit 402, respectively, washing / dehydration / drying administration proceeds, each step of the first and the second washing tank (31, 32) and each device in the control method described later Is determined by the control unit 402.

The first and second water level detectors 81 and 82 are installed in the vicinity of the first and second air outlets 291 and 292 formed at the lower rear of the first and second washing tanks 31 and 32 to dry. Detect the level of water generated.

The control unit 402 determines the operation of the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32 to determine whether one washing tank is in operation and the other washing tank is inoperative, for example, water used for the operation, for example, Transfer the water used in the working bath to a non-working wash basin. At this time, the control unit 402 determines whether there is a washing tank in operation, and if there is a washing tank in operation, determines whether the movement of the water used in the operating washing tank is necessary, and if the movement of the water used in the working washing tank is necessary, the operating washing tank is required. The water used for the transfer is stored in a non-operating washing tank.

For example, the control unit 402 determines the operation of the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32 to use in the last rinsing process when one washing tank is in the last rinsing and the other washing tank is inactive. The stored water is transferred to a non-operating washing tank for storage. The rinsing water used for the last rinse is relatively clean water, so that it can be recycled later as washing water or rinsing water, which can drastically reduce the water consumption of the washing machine. That is, when the first washing tank 31 is the last rinsing and the second washing tank 32 is inoperative, the water used in the last rinsing process is transferred to the second washing tank 32 and stored. At this time, when the second washing tank 32 is in operation, the water in the first washing tank 31 is discharged to the outside. On the other hand, when the second washing tank 32 is the last rinsing and the first washing tank 31 is inoperative, the water used for the last rinsing process is transferred to the first washing tank 31 and stored. At this time, when the first washing tank 31 is in operation, water in the second washing tank 32 is discharged to the outside.

In addition, the control unit 402 determines the operation of the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32, when one of the washing tank is drying and the other washing tank is inactive, the water generated in the drying process is inoperative Transfer it to the washing tank in storage and store it. Like the above rinsing water, the water generated during the drying process is relatively clean water, so that it can be recycled later as washing water or rinsing water, which can drastically reduce the water consumption of the washing machine. That is, when the first washing tank 31 is drying and the second washing tank 32 is inoperative, water generated in the drying process is transferred to the second washing tank 32 and stored. At this time, when the second washing tank 32 is in operation, the water in the first washing tank 31 is discharged to the outside. On the other hand, when the second washing tank 32 is drying and the first washing tank 31 is inoperative, water generated in the drying process is transferred to the first washing tank 31 and stored. At this time, when the first washing tank 31 is in operation, water in the second washing tank 32 is discharged to the outside. The control unit 402 detects the water level generated during the drying process, and moves the water generated during the drying process to a non-operating washing tank when the detected water level is greater than or equal to a preset value.

In addition, the control unit 402 is to move the water used for the operation of the operating washing tank to the non-operating washing tank to store and then determine the operation of the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32, the newly operated washing tank is If present, the water stored in the non-operating washing tank is transferred to a new washing tank for use in washing or rinsing. At this time, the water stored in the non-operating washing tank is moved to the newly operating washing tank before or when the newly operating washing tank performs either the washing stroke or the rinsing stroke. At this time, if the newly operated washing tank is a previous non-operating washing tank and is already storing water, if the washing tank is filled with water, the user may try to open the door. After moving to the washing tank, the user puts the laundry and closes the door, and when the loading of the laundry is completed, it is moved back to the original washing tank.

The driving unit 404 may include the first and second motors 61 and 62, the first and second laundry heaters 71 and 72, and the first and second feed water valves 131 and 131 according to the driving control signal of the controller 402. 132, first and second drying heaters 231 and 232, first and second drying fans 241 and 242, first and second cold water valves 261 and 262, and first and second drain pumps 321 and 322. The on / off valve 502, the pump 503, etc. are driven.

Hereinafter, a control method of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 4.

If both wash tanks are performing the last rinse, or if one wash tank is in operation while one wash tank is performing the last rinse, it proceeds by normal control. However, when one washing tank is performing the last rinsing and the other is not in operation, the control method of the washing machine according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied.

4 illustrates a control operation of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 4, first, the controller 402 determines the operations of the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32. At this time, the control unit 402 determines whether the first washing tank 31 is the last rinsing or the second washing tank 32 is the last rinsing (600).

After determining the operation of the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32, the control unit 402 determines whether there is a washing tank being rinsed last among the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32 according to the determination result. 610.

After determining whether there is a washing tank being rinsed last among the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32, the controller 402 determines whether the first washing tank 31 is in the last rinsing (620). If it is determined that the first washing tank 31 is being rinsed last, it is determined whether the second washing tank 32 is inoperable (630).

When the second washing tank 32 is not in operation, the control unit 402 opens the on / off valve 502 of the water moving device 500 and rotates the pump 503 forward so that the first washing tank used in the final rinsing process ( The rinsing water is stored in the second washing tank 32 by moving the rinsing water of 31) to the second washing tank 32 (see FIG. 5). This water may be recycled when the second washing tank 32 later performs a washing stroke or a rinsing stroke. In addition, the water may be returned to the first washing tank 31 through the water moving device 500 to be recycled when the first washing tank 31 performs the next washing stroke or rinsing stroke. Therefore, the water consumption of the washing machine can be reduced.

On the other hand, when it is determined in the operation mode 630 that the second washing tank 32 is in operation, the control unit 402 turns on the first drain pump 321 so as not to affect the operation of the second washing tank 32. The rinsing water of the washing tank 31 is discharged to the outside (650).

On the other hand, when the determination result of the operation mode 620, when the first washing tank 31 is not the last rinsing, the control unit 402 determines that the second washing tank 32 is the last rinsing to determine whether the first washing tank 31 is inoperative. (660).

As a result of the determination of the operation mode 660, when the first washing tank 31 is not in operation, the control unit 402 opens the opening / closing valve 502 of the water moving device 500 and rotates the pump 503 in a reverse direction to the second washing tank 32. The rinsing water is stored in the first washing tank 31 by moving the rinsing water of) to the first washing tank 31 (670). This water can be recycled when the first washing tank 31 performs the next washing stroke or rinsing stroke. In addition, the water may be provided to the second washing tank 32 through the water moving device 500 to be recycled when the second washing tank 32 performs the next washing stroke or rinsing stroke. Therefore, the water consumption of the washing machine can be reduced.

Meanwhile, as a result of the determination of the operation mode 660, when the first washing tank 31 is in operation, the control unit 402 turns on the second drain pump 322 so as not to affect the operation of the first washing tank 31. The rinsing water of the washing tank 32 is discharged to the outside (650).

Meanwhile, when the first washing tank is in the last rinsing or drying process as described above, when the water used in the last rinsing process or drying process is moved to and stored in a non-operating second washing tank, as shown in FIG. 2 The water stored in the wash basin acts as a balance weight, reducing the overall vibration and noise of the washing machine. The same applies to the case where the water used in the last rinsing or drying process is transferred to a non-operating first washing tank and stored. Water transferred to the non-operating washing tank is stored until the operation of the working washing tank is finished.

Hereinafter, a control method of a washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 7.

If both washing tanks are carrying out a drying stroke, or if the other washing tank is in operation while one washing tank is performing a drying stroke, it proceeds by normal control. However, when one washing tank is performing a drying stroke and the other is inoperative, the control method of the washing machine according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied.

Hereinafter, for convenience, the drying apparatuses 201 and 202 are installed in both the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32 will be described based on an example in which the control method of the present invention is applied. However, the control method of the present invention is similarly applied to the case where the drying apparatus is installed alone in the first washing tank 31 or the second washing tank 32.

7 illustrates a control operation of the washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 7, first, the controller 402 determines the operations of the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32. In this case, the controller 402 determines whether the first washing tank 31 is drying or the second washing tank 32 is drying (700).

After determining the operation of the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32, the controller 402 determines whether there is a drying tank among the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32 according to the determination result ( 710).

After determining whether there is a drying tank among the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32, the controller 402 determines whether the first washing tank 31 is drying (720). If it is determined that the first washing tank 31 is drying, it is determined whether the second washing tank 32 is inoperative (730).

When the second washing tank 32 is not in operation, the control unit 402 opens the on / off valve 502 of the water moving device 500 and rotates the pump 503 forward to condensed water (drying) of the first washing tank 31. The condensed water is stored in the second washing tank 32 by moving the water generated in the process to the second washing tank 32 (see FIG. 8). This water can be utilized when the second washing tank 32 performs the next washing stroke or rinsing stroke. In addition, the water may be provided to the first washing tank 31 through the water transfer device 500 to be recycled when the first washing tank 31 performs the next washing stroke or rinsing stroke. Therefore, the water consumption of the washing machine can be reduced.

Meanwhile, as a result of the determination of the operation mode 730, when the second washing tank 32 is in operation, the controller 402 turns on the first drain pump 321 so as not to affect the operation of the second washing tank 32. The condensed water in the washing tank 31 is discharged to the outside (750).

On the other hand, when the determination result of the operation mode 720, when the first washing tank 31 is not drying, the control unit 402 determines that the second washing tank 32 is drying to determine whether the first washing tank 31 is inoperative ( 760).

As a result of the determination of the operation mode 760, when the first washing tank 31 is inoperative, the control unit 402 opens the opening / closing valve 502 of the water moving device 500 and reversely rotates the pump 503 to perform the second washing tank 32. The condensate is stored in the first washing tank 31 by moving the condensed water) to the first washing tank 31 (770). This water can be utilized when the first washing tank 31 performs the next washing stroke or rinsing stroke. In addition, the water may be returned to the first washing tank 31 through the water moving device 500 to be recycled when the first washing tank 31 performs the next washing stroke or rinsing stroke. Therefore, the water consumption of the washing machine can be reduced.

Meanwhile, as a result of the determination of the operation mode 760, when the first washing tank 31 is in operation, the control unit 402 turns on the second drain pump 322 so as not to affect the operation of the first washing tank 31. The condensed water in the washing tank 32 is discharged to the outside (750).

On the other hand, when the first washing tank is the last rinsing or drying as described above, when the water used in the last rinsing process or drying process is moved to the second washing tank in a non-operation and stored, as shown in Figure 9, Since the water stored in the second washing tank serves as a balance weight, overall vibration and noise of the washing machine can be reduced. The same applies to the case where the water used in the last rinsing or drying process is transferred to a non-operating first washing tank and stored. Water transferred to the non-operating washing tank is stored until the operation of the working washing tank is finished.

In addition, the above-described embodiment describes that the water stored in the non-operating washing tank serves as the balance weight by moving and storing the water used in the last rinsing or drying washing tank in the non-operating washing tank, but the present invention is not limited thereto. . For the balance weight role alone, even if the new water is supplied to the non-operating washing tank when one of the washing tanks is in operation, the same effect as moving and storing water between the washing tanks can be obtained. In this case, the operating washing tank includes washing, rinsing (initial rinsing or intermediate rinsing), or dehydrating washing tank in addition to the last rinsing or drying rinsing tank. In addition, the washing tank in operation also includes a washing tank that performs any one of a washing stroke, a rinsing stroke, a dehydrating stroke, or a drying stroke.

On the other hand, the above embodiment has been described for moving the water used in the washing tank in operation to the non-operating washing tank, but is not limited to this, it is possible to move the water used in the working washing tank to the working washing tank. For example, when water is required for washing or rinsing the second washing tank at the time when the first washing tank performs the last rinsing, water used in the first washing tank may be moved to the second washing tank.

Hereinafter, a method of recycling water moved to a non-operating washing tank will be described in detail. For convenience of description, two washing tanks are provided, and water is stored in only one washing tank, and both washing tanks will be described initially.

FIG. 10 illustrates an operation of moving water stored in another washing tank to a newly operated washing tank in the washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 10, the controller 402 determines whether there is a washing tank in which water is stored among the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32 (800).

When there is a washing tank in which water is stored, the control unit 402 determines the operations of the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32.

After determining the operation of the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32, the control unit 402 determines whether there is a newly operating washing tank among the first washing tank 31 and the second washing tank 32 according to the determination result. (802). Here, the newly operated washing tank is a washing tank newly performing a washing stroke or a rinsing stroke.

When there is a newly operated washing tub, the controller 402 determines whether the newly operated washing tub is the first washing tub 31 (803).

When the newly operated washing tank is the first washing tank 31, the controller 402 determines whether the washing tank in which water is stored is the first washing tank 31 (804).

When the washing tank in which water is stored is the first washing tank 31, the controller 402 moves the water stored in the first washing tank 31 to the second washing tank 32 (805). This is because the new wash tank is the same as the wash tank that holds the water, so if the user opens the door for washing, it will prevent the water from overflowing, or the door will be locked by the stored water and the door will not open before the user loads the laundry. This is to prevent opening.

After moving the water from the first washing tank 31 to the second washing tank 32, the controller 402 determines whether the laundry is finished (806). When the input of the laundry is completed, the controller 402 moves the water transferred to the second washing tank 32 back to the first washing tank 31 (807). The water thus moved is recycled to the operation of the first washing tank (31).

On the other hand, when the washing tank in which the water is stored is the second washing tank 32, the control unit 402 determines whether the loading of the laundry is completed (806), and when the loading of the laundry is completed, the control unit 402 is the second washing tank ( The water stored in the 32) is transferred to the first washing tank 31 (807). Therefore, the water stored in the operation of the first washing tank 31 is recycled.

On the other hand, when the newly operated washing tank is the second washing tank, the control unit 402 determines whether the washing tank in which water is stored is the second washing tank 32 (808).

When the washing tank in which the water is stored is the second washing tank 32, the controller 402 moves the water stored in the second washing tank 32 to the first washing tank 31 (808). This is because the new wash tank is the same as the wash tank that holds the water, so if the user opens the door for washing, the water will not spill out, or the door will be locked by the stored water and the door will not open before the user loads the laundry. This is to prevent it from opening.

After moving the water from the second washing tank 32 to the first washing tank 31, the controller 402 determines whether the laundry is finished (810). When the input of the laundry is completed, the control unit 402 moves the water transferred to the first washing tank 31 back to the second washing tank 32 (811). The water thus moved is recycled to the operation of the second washing tank (32).

On the other hand, when the washing tank in which the water is stored is the first washing tank 31, the control unit 402 determines whether the loading of the laundry is completed (810), and when the loading of the laundry is completed, the control unit 402 is the first washing tank ( The water stored in the 31) is transferred to the second washing tank 32 (811). Therefore, the water stored in the operation of the second washing tank 32 is recycled.

1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

2 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

3 is a schematic control block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

4 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

5 is a view showing the movement of the rinsing water used for the last rinsing when the second washing tank is the last rinsing, the first washing tank is inactive in the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

6 is a view showing that the rinsing water used during the last rinsing in the second washing tank in the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

7 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation of a washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention.

8 is a view showing the movement of water generated in the drying process when the second washing tank is drying and the first washing tank is inactive in the washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention.

9 is a view showing that the water generated during the drying process is stored in the second washing tank in the washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention.

10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of moving water stored in another washing tank to a newly operated washing tank in a washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention.

 [Description of the Reference Numerals]

31,32: 1st and 2nd washing tank 41,42: 1st and 2nd drum

61,62: first and second motor 71,72: first and second laundry heater

101,102: first and second water supply device 201,202: first and second drying device

301,302: first and second drain device 400: input unit

402: control unit 404: driving unit

500: water transfer device 501: connector

502: on-off valve 503: pump

Claims (16)

In the control method of the washing machine provided with a plurality of washing tanks, Determine whether there is a working wash tub; If there is a washing tank in operation, the control method of the washing machine comprising moving the water used in the operation to the non-operating washing tank. The method of claim 1, Determining whether there is a washing tank in operation, the control method of the washing machine comprising determining whether there is a washing tank performing any one of the washing stroke, rinsing stroke, dehydration stroke or drying stroke. The method of claim 2, Determining whether there is a washing tank in operation, the control method of the washing machine comprising determining whether there is a washing tank in the last rinsing. The method of claim 2, Determining whether there is a washing tank in operation, the control method of the washing machine comprising determining whether there is a washing tank being dried. The method of claim 4, wherein Detects the water level generated during the drying process of the working washing tank, If the detected water level is more than a predetermined value, the control method of the washing machine comprising moving the water generated in the drying process to the non-operating washing tank. The method of claim 1, The control method of the washing machine comprising storing the water moved to the non-operating washing tank until the operation of the operating washing tank is finished. The method of claim 5, The control method of the washing machine to provide the water moved to the non-operating washing tank when the operating washing tank performs any one of the next washing stroke or rinsing stroke. In the control method of the washing machine provided with a plurality of washing tanks, Determine whether there is a working wash tub; If there is a washing tank in operation, determining whether movement of the water used for the operation is necessary; If the movement of the water used for the operation is necessary, the control method of the washing machine comprising moving the water used for the operation to a non-operating washing tank. The method of claim 8, Determining whether the movement of the water used for the operation is necessary includes determining whether the washing tank in operation has completed the last rinsing, and determining whether the water level generated in the drying process reaches a preset value. Control method. A plurality of washing tanks; A water moving device for moving water between the plurality of washing tanks; And a control unit for controlling the water moving device to move the water used in the washing tank in operation to another washing tank. The method of claim 10, The control unit includes moving the water used for the last rinsing or drying operation in the washing tank to the non-operating washing tank. The method of claim 10, The control unit is a washing machine comprising moving the water used in the washing tank performing any one of the washing stroke, rinsing stroke, dehydration stroke or drying stroke to the non-operating washing tank. The method of claim 10, The control unit washing machine comprising storing the water moved to the other washing tank until the operation of the operating washing tank is finished. The method of claim 13, The control unit is to provide the water moved to the other washing tank when the operating washing tank performs any one of the next washing stroke or rinsing stroke. The method of claim 10, The water moving device includes a washing machine including at least one connecting pipe connecting two washing tanks, and an opening and closing valve and a pump provided in the connecting pipe. The method of claim 15, The connecting pipe may include one end of which is connected to at least one of a drain pipe of the first washing tank or a condensation duct of the first washing tank, and the other end of which is connected to at least one of a drain pipe of the second washing tank or a condensation duct of the second washing tank. washer.

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