KR20130143474A - Washing machine and control method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

Proposed are a washing machine having a structure capable of draining and circulating by using a single pump and capable of enhancing washing performance by using a circulation of water and a rotation of a drum, and a control method thereof. The structure of the washing machine is simplified through the change of a flow path that enables the draining and the circulation of water by using an existing pump while decreasing the number of the components of the washing machine and reducing the cost of the washing machine. Also, the washing machine accelerates the dissolution of detergent by generating large amount of bubbles by using the circulation of water and the rotation of the drum, without additional components, such that the washing performance can be enhanced, and by maintaining the generated bubbles, the non-tangible quality that a user feels in the course of washing can be enhanced. [Reference numerals] (100) Select a washing course;(102) Detect the weight of laundry;(104) Set a target RPM, a driving factor, and washing time according to the weight of laundry;(106) Determine the number of proceedings(Ns) of a bubble generating cycle by considering the washing time of each washing course;(108) Supply washing water;(110) Proceed with the bubble generating cycle by using a circulation and rotation of the washing water;(112) Is a fifth period of time expired?;(114) Count the number of proceedings(N) of the bubble generating cycle;(116) Proceed with washing by alternately rotating a drum at the target RPM and driving factor;(118) Is a sixth period of time expired?;(AA) Start;(BB,DD,FF) No;(CC,EE,GG) Yes

Description

[0001] WASHING MACHINE AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF [0002]

The present invention relates to a washing machine for improving the washing performance by using the circulation of water and the rotation of the drum and a control method thereof.

In general, a washing machine (usually a drum washing machine) includes a water tank for fresh water of washing water (washing water or rinsing water), a drum rotatably installed inside the water tank to accommodate laundry, and a driving force for rotating the drum. When the cylindrical drum is rotated, including a motor for generating the laundry inside the device is to rise along the inner wall of the drum and the laundry is made through the operation of falling.

Such a washing machine includes a washing process for separating the contamination of the laundry with detergent dissolved in water (specifically, washing water), a rinsing process for rinsing the laundry with foam or residual detergent with water not containing detergent (specifically, rinsing water) The washing operation is carried out by a series of operations such as the administration, the dehydration process for dehydrating the laundry at high speed, and the like.

Among the above-mentioned strokes, the washing stroke is a flow of water for delivering detergent water (water + detergent) to laundry by putting detergent together with water (specifically, washing water) and then stirring the drum left and right according to the driving of the motor. To remove contaminants from the laundry.

However, the conventional washing machine has to fill the space between the water tank and the drum for washing, so the water consumption is high and a large amount of detergent must be used, and in the case of heat washing, a large amount of energy is required to raise the temperature of the injected water. Do.

In addition, in order to improve the washing performance, the detergent water must be effectively delivered to the laundry located in the center of the washing machine.However, due to the structure of the washing machine, it is difficult to raise the water height of the detergent water without using additional water, and the detergent introduced with the washing water cannot be dissolved. Discarded portion may occur and the concentration of detergent water may be lowered, and thus there is a limitation in implementing high-concentration laundry.

In order to solve this problem, a method of improving washing performance by promoting detergent dissolution while minimizing the use of water by using a device for circulating water or generating bubbles in the prior art has been proposed.

However, in order to circulate the water in the tank or generate bubbles, additional components (pumps, hoses, other injection moldings, etc.) must be added, and thus, a washing machine manufacturing procedure is added and material costs are increased.

The present invention has a structure that enables drainage and circulation by using a single pump, and proposes a washing machine and a control method thereof which can improve washing performance by using water circulation and rotation of a drum.

To this end, an aspect of the present invention provides a control method of a washing machine including a water tank, a drum rotatably installed inside the water tank, and a pump for circulating water in the water tank, the method comprising: (a) removing the drum after washing and supplying water to the water tank; Rotate in one direction for one hour; (b) after rotating the drum in one direction, stopping the drum for a second time; (c) when the second time has elapsed, rotating the drum in the opposite direction for a third time; (d) after the drum rotates in the opposite direction, stopping the drum for a fourth time period, and during the left and right stirring operations of the drum consisting of the steps (a) to (d), the pump is operated to rotate and circulate the drum. It is to proceed with the bubble generation stroke that generates bubbles by friction of water.

The bubble generation stroke is made after a water supply stroke that supplies water and detergent to the tank for washing.

In addition, the control method of the washing machine according to an aspect of the present invention further includes a motor for rotating the drum, while rotating the drum in one direction, while driving the motor at a constant RPM while driving in the forward direction for a first time It includes more.

In addition, the control method of the washing machine according to an aspect of the present invention further includes driving in the reverse direction for a third time while maintaining the motor at a constant RPM while rotating the drum in the opposite direction.

The first time and the third time are the same time, and the second time and the fourth time are the same time.

The second time is a time set shorter than the first time, the first time is 14 seconds, and the second time is 6 seconds.

In addition, the first time and the third time are different times, and the second time and the fourth time are different times.

When stirring the drum left and right, the constant RPM is at least 80 RPM.

In addition, the control method of the washing machine according to an aspect of the present invention further includes changing the motor RPM during left and right stirring of the drum.

In addition, the method of controlling a washing machine according to an aspect of the present invention further includes changing a motor driving time or a motor stopping time when stirring the drum left and right.

The schedule is 1-2 minutes.

In addition, the control method of the washing machine according to an aspect of the present invention further includes counting the number of times the bubble is generated, and further comprising terminating the bubble generation stroke when the counted number of times reaches the predetermined reference number of times. do.

The standard number of times is determined in consideration of the washing time of each washing course.

And, a washing machine according to an aspect of the present invention, the water tank for receiving water; A drum rotatably installed in the tank; Washing motor for rotating the drum; A flow path switching device for switching the flow path to drain or circulate the water in the tank; And a control unit for controlling the flow path switching device after supplying water and detergent to the water tank to circulate the water in the water tank, and at the same time, controlling the washing motor to perform a bubble generation step of stirring the drum left and right.

The controller drives the motor at a constant RPM and an operation rate when the drum is stirred left and right.

The control unit also stirs and rotates the drum with the motor RPM of at least 80 RPM.

In addition, the control unit changes the motor RPM or the motor running rate during the stirring rotation of the drum.

In addition, the control unit counts the left and right stirring time of the drum and reaches a predetermined time to stop the left and right stirring operation of the drum.

The flow path switching device includes a pump for pumping water in the water tank and a flow path switching valve for switching the flow path to drain the water discharged from the water tank by the pump to the outside or circulate the water to the water tank.

In addition, an aspect of the present invention provides a control method of a washing machine including a water tank, a drum rotatably installed in the water tank, a washing motor for rotating the drum, and a pump for circulating water in the water tank. Supply detergent; Driving a pump to circulate the water discharged from the water tank into the water tank, and simultaneously driving the washing motor at a predetermined RPM and an operation rate to perform a bubble generation step of stirring the drum left and right; Driving the washing motor at a target RPM and an operation rate to proceed with a washing stroke for stirring the drum left and right, and counting the advancing time of the bubble generating stroke and the advancing time of the washing stroke, and passing the predetermined time, the bubble generating stroke and washing It is to take turns in administration.

The bubble generation stroke rotates the drum in one direction for a first time; After one direction of rotation of the drum, the drum is stopped for a second time; When the second time has elapsed, the drum is rotated in the opposite direction for the first time; After the opposite direction of rotation of the drum, stopping the drum for a second time.

In addition, in the bubble generation step, the pump is driven while the drum is left and right stirred to generate bubbles by the rotation of the drum and the friction of the water circulated.

Further, the bubble generation stroke further includes driving the motor in the forward or reverse direction for the first time while maintaining the motor at a constant RPM while stirring the drum left and right.

The motor RPM of the bubble generation stroke is set higher than the motor RPM of the washing stroke.

The advancing time of the bubble generation stroke is set shorter than the advancing time of the washing stroke.

In addition, the control method of the washing machine according to an aspect of the present invention further includes counting the number of times the bubble generation stroke progresses, and ending the bubble generation stroke when the counted number of times reaches the predetermined reference number of times.

In addition, the control method of the washing machine according to an aspect of the present invention further includes, after the completion of the bubble generating stroke, proceeding only the washing stroke for the remaining washing time.

The reference number of times is at least two times.

In addition, an aspect of the present invention provides a washing machine including a water tank, a drum rotatably installed in the water tank, a pump for pumping water in the water tank, and a flow path switching valve for switching a flow path to drain or circulate the water in the water tank. A control method comprising: determining a washing stroke; If the washing stroke, the flow path switching valve is operated to switch the flow path such that water discharged from the water tank flows into the water tank; Operating the pump to introduce water discharged from the tank into the tank; Rotating the drum to proceed with the bubble generating stroke for generating bubbles by friction between the drum and the water flowing into the water tank.

According to the proposed washing machine and its control method, the structure of the washing machine can be simplified, the number of parts can be reduced, and the cost can be reduced by switching the flow path to enable the circulation of water as well as the drainage using the existing drainage pump.

In addition, by generating a large amount of bubbles using the rotation of the drum along with the circulation of water to promote the dissolution of detergent without additional configuration, and to improve the washing performance, and to maintain the generated bubbles to improve the user's emotional quality during washing Can be.

1 is a perspective view showing an outer appearance of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
2 is a sectional view showing a configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
3 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
4A and 4B are flowcharts illustrating a control method of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
5 is a graph showing a driving profile of the washing motor in the bubble generation stroke of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
6 is a flowchart illustrating a bubble generation stroke operation of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a sectional view showing the construction of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

1 and 2, the washing machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention has a substantially box shape and forms an appearance, and is installed inside the main body 10, and water (washing water or rinsing). A drum-shaped water tank 11 provided for fresh water of the water) and a cylindrical drum 12 rotatably installed in the water tank 11 and having a plurality of holes 13 formed therein.

The washing motor 15 is installed outside the rear part of the water tank 11 as a driving device for rotating the rotating shaft 15a connected to the drum 12 to perform a washing stroke, a rinsing stroke and a dehydration stroke.

In general, the washing motor 15 uses a universal motor composed of a field coil and an armature, a BLDC motor composed of a permanent magnet and an electric magnet, and the like. Any motor may be used as long as it is a motor applicable to the small and medium drum 12.

In the lower side of the water tank 11, the water level sensor 16 which detects the frequency which changes according to the water level in order to detect the quantity (water level) of the water in the water tank 11, and the washing which heats the water in the water tank 11, The heater 17 and the temperature sensor 18 which detects the temperature of the water (washing water or rinsing water) in the water tank 11 are provided.

In addition, a door 19 is installed at the front portion of the main body 10 so that laundry can be put into the drum 12 or the laundry can be taken out of the drum 12.

A detergent supply device 20 for supplying detergent and a water supply device 30 for supplying water (washing water or rinsing water) are provided on the upper part of the water tank 11. [

The detergent supply device 20 is partitioned into a plurality of spaces, and is installed on the front side of the main body 10 so that the user can easily input detergent and rinsing agent into the respective spaces.

In addition, the water supply device 30 and the cold water and hot water supply pipes (31, 32) connecting between the external water supply pipe and the detergent supply device 20 to supply water (washing water or rinsing water) into the water tank (11); And cold water and hot water valves 31 and 32 installed in the middle of the cold and hot water supply pipes 31 and 32 to control the water supply, and a water supply pipe 35 connecting the detergent supply device 20 and the water tank 11 to each other. do. This configuration is to allow the water supplied to the inside of the water tank 11 via the detergent supply device 20 so that the detergent in the detergent supply device 20 can be supplied to the water tank 11 together with the water.

A control panel 40 on which various buttons and a display for controlling the washing machine 1 are disposed is provided on the front of the main body 10 and a detergent supply device 20 is connected to one side of the control panel 40 And a detergent input unit 21 for inputting detergent for washing machine is provided.

In addition, the washing machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided with a flow path switching device 50 for draining or circulating the water in the water tank 11, the flow path switching device 50 of the water tank (11) A pump 51 installed at the lower part to pump water in the water tank 11, and a flow path switching valve 52 for switching a flow path of water discharged from the water tank 11 by the pump 51 in a drainage direction or a circulation direction. ).

The pump 51 is connected to the pump case 53 to drain the water discharged from the water tank 11 to the outside or circulate to the water tank 11, and the water tank 11 between the water tank 11 and the pump case 53. The first connecting pipe 54 for guiding the water to the pump case 53 is installed.

The flow path switching valve 52 is provided on the outlet side of the pump 51 so that its inlet is connected to the pump 51 and its outlet is connected to the drain flow path 55a or the circulation flow path 56a. A drain pipe 55 is connected to the drain flow path 55a provided at the outlet side of the flow path switching valve 52 so as to drain water guided to the pump case 53 to the outside, and is provided at the other outlet side of the flow path switching valve 52. A circulation pipe 56 is connected to the circulation flow path 56a so that the water guided to the pump case 53 flows into the water tank 11.

That is, during drainage, the flow path direction of the flow path switching valve 52 is switched to the drain flow path 55a so that the water discharged from the water tank 11 is drained to the outside through the drain pipe 55 without entering the water tank 11. At the time of washing, the flow path direction of the flow path switching valve 52 is switched to the circulation flow path 56a so that the water discharged from the water tank 11 is not drained to the outside and flows back to the water tank 11 through the circulation pipe 56. Allow inflow.

In this way, the water discharged from the water tank 11 is drained to the outside through the drain pipe 55 at the time of drainage according to the flow path switching of the flow path switching valve 52, and the water discharged from the water tank 11 is circulated at the time of washing. It is flowing back to the water tank (11) through the pipe (56).

On the other hand, the flow path direction of the flow path switching valve 52 is normally connected to the drain flow path 55a.

The circulation pipe 56 has one side connected to the flow path switching valve 52 and the other side connected to the water tank 11 so that the water in the water tank 11 is connected to the first connection pipe 54 when the pump 51 operates. Guided to the pump case 53 through the water, guided to the pump case 53 is guided to the flow path switching valve 52 through the second connecting pipe 57, the water guided to the flow path switching valve 52 The circulation pipe 56 is supplied back to the water tank 11 to have a structure that is circulated. At this time, the position of the circulation pipe 52 connected to the water tank 11 is set as low as possible so that circulated water can be smoothly supplied to the lower part of the water tank 11.

In addition, a second connecting pipe 57 is provided between the pump 51 and the flow path switching valve 52 to guide the water accumulated in the pump case 53 to the flow path switching valve 52.

In addition, the washing machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is a suspension spring 60 for elastically supporting the water tank 11 at the top of the water tank 11 in order to prevent vibration generated in the process of operating the washing machine 1. ) And a damper 62 for reducing vibration in the lower part of the water tank 11.

The suspension spring 60 and the damper 62 support the water tank 11 so as to flow in the upper and lower portions of the water tank 11, respectively. That is, the water tank 11 is excited by the vibration excitation force generated when the drum 12 rotates, and vibration occurs in all directions, such as front, rear, right, left, up and down, and the vibration of the water tank 11 includes a suspension spring 60 and a damper ( 62).

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

3, the washing machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an input unit 70, a control unit 72, a memory 73, a driving unit 74, and a display unit 76.

The input unit 70 inputs a command for performing the washing, rinsing, and dewatering operations of the washing machine 1 by the user's operation, and may be constituted by a key, a button, a switch, a touch pad, , And all devices that generate predetermined input data by operations such as contact, pressure, rotation, and the like.

The input unit 70 is provided in the control panel 40 and includes a plurality of buttons for inputting a user command related to the operation of the washing machine 1 (power source, reservation, washing water temperature, calling, washing, rinsing, Type, etc.). Among the plurality of buttons, there are a laundry course (a standard course, a wool course, a delicate course, etc. for a plurality of laundry courses, depending on the type of laundry to be introduced into the washing machine 1, ) For selecting a course.

The control unit 72 is a microcomputer for controlling the overall operation of the washing machine 1 such as washing, rinsing and dehydration according to the operation information inputted from the input unit 70. The control unit 72 controls the overall operation of the washing machine 1 according to the weight of the laundry Target rinsing water level, target RPM and operation rate (motor on-off time), washing and rinsing time, etc. are set.

In addition, the controller 72 supplies the water set according to the weight (loading amount) of the laundry during washing, and generates a large amount of bubbles by using the rotation of the drum 12 together with the circulation of the water to maintain the generated bubbles Proceed with the bubble generation process to proceed with the washing.

The bubble generating stroke circulates water (specifically, detergent water) inside the water tank 11 by driving the pump 51 after water supply of the washing water, and simultaneously rubs the washing motor 15 with a predetermined RPM (between the drum and the water tank). While generating a bubble to generate a bubble (about 80-89 RPM), while maintaining the driving rate of 14 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off by stirring the drum 12 left and right. Accordingly, when water between the drum 12 and the water tank 11 is circulated and flows back into the water tank 11, when the drum is rotated at a predetermined RPM (about 80 to 89 RPM), the water flows into the water tank 11. The friction between the water and the drum 12 generates bubbles. Simultaneously drive the pump 51 and drive the washing motor 15 at a constant RPM (about 80-89 RPM) and operation rate (14 seconds on / 6 seconds off) to generate a bubble-generating stroke that stirs the drum 12 left and right. If a certain amount of time (about 1 to 2 minutes, a time when a large amount of bubbles can be generated through friction of water between the drum and the water tank), a large amount of bubbles are generated inside the drum 12. The large amount of bubbles generated through the bubble generating stroke promotes dissolution of the detergent injected with water (washing water) into the water tank 11, thereby improving washing performance. Overflowing into the diaphragm of 19) also improves the quality of the user's sensitivity to washing performance.

However, since a large amount of bubbles generated in accordance with the progress of the bubble generation stroke is extinguished after about 5 to 6 minutes elapses, a predetermined time (time for proceeding the bubble generation stroke before the large amount of bubbles disappears, up to 5 minutes). By repeating the bubble generation process within a few minutes to maintain a large amount of bubbles inside the drum 12 it is also possible to increase the visibility of the bubble that the user feels.

In addition, the controller 72 determines the number of times Ns of the bubble generation stroke in consideration of the washing time for each selected washing course.

The memory 73 stores control data for controlling the operation of the washing machine 1, reference data used during operation control of the washing machine 1, operation data generated while the washing machine 1 performs a predetermined operation, Setting information such as setting data and the like input by the input unit 70 so that the washing machine 1 performs a predetermined operation, use information including the number of times the washing machine 1 performs a specific operation, model information of the washing machine 1, Fault information including the cause of the malfunction or the malfunction position at the time of malfunction of the washing machine 1 can be stored.

The driving unit 74 includes a washing motor 15, a washing heater 17, cold water and hot water valves 33 and 34, a pump 51, and the like, which are related to the operation of the washing machine 1 according to a driving control signal of the control unit 72. The flow path switching valve 52 or the like is driven.

The display unit 76 is provided on the control panel 40 and displays the operation state of the washing machine 1 and the operation state of the user according to the display control signal of the control unit 72. [

Hereinafter, the operation and effect of the control method of the washing machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described.

4a and 4b is an operation flowchart showing a control method of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, and relates to an algorithm capable of improving washing performance and emotional quality by generating bubbles in addition to the basic washing stroke.

4A and 4B, the user puts laundry into the drum 12 and puts detergent into the detergent supply device 20. In addition, a washing course (a plurality of washing courses includes a standard course, a wool course, a delicate course, etc.) according to the type of laundry by operating a button of the input unit 70 arranged on the control panel 40. For example, the type of laundry In step 100, the user selects a standard course selected by the user. At this time, the driving information of the washing course selected by the user is input to the controller 72 through the input unit 70.

Therefore, the control unit 72 detects the weight (load amount) of the laundry put into the drum 12 for the progress of the washing stroke (102). At this time, the method of detecting the weight of the laundry, the method of detecting the weight by using the time to reach a constant speed (or a certain number of revolutions) using the instantaneous acceleration of the washing motor 15, and Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-336593 , As disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-267334 and Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 07-90077, by applying a torque to the washing motor 15 for a predetermined time and measuring the inertia amount of the drum 12 directly or indirectly, Any method can be applied, such as the method of detecting weight using the 2 law (torque = inertia ㅧ acceleration).

In addition, it is a matter of course that the weight (load) of the laundry can be detected by using a load cell among known methods.

When the weight (load amount) of the laundry is detected, the control unit 72 determines the target washing level and the target rinsing level, the target RPM and the operation rate (motor on-off time), and the washing and rinsing time according to the detected weight of the laundry (load amount). And so on (104).

Setting the target RPM and operation rate (motor on-off time), the target washing level and the target rinsing level, the washing and rinsing time, etc. according to the weight of the laundry (loading amount) are separate from the user's operation of the washing machine 1. This is the case when no additional command is entered. If the user additionally inputs a separate command regarding the operation of the washing machine 1, the target RPM and operation rate (motor on-off time) set according to the weight of the laundry (load amount), the target washing level and the target rinsing level, Of course, the washing and rinsing time is changed according to a user command.

Subsequently, the controller 72 determines the reference number of times Ns of the bubble generation stroke in consideration of the washing time for each washing course (106).

The reference number of times Ns of the bubble generation stroke is set to at least two times, and the reference number of times Ns of the bubble generation stroke is changed according to the washing time for each washing course. For example, the longer the washing time, the more the number of standard progresses Ns of the bubble generating stroke is increased, thereby improving washing performance and increasing visibility of the bubble felt by the user.

Thereafter, the control unit 72 operates the cold water or hot water valves 33 and 34 to supply the water (washing water) required for the washing stroke according to the weight of the laundry (loading amount) or a user command.

When the cold water or hot water valves 33 and 34 are operated, the cold water or hot water valves 33 and 34 are opened, and the water (washing water) supplied through the external water pipe is cold or hot water supply pipes 31 and 32 and a detergent supply device. Water is supplied to the water tank 11 via the 20. At this time, the detergent in the detergent supply device 20 is dissolved in the water (washing water) while being supplied to the water tank 11 through the connection pipe 35 together with the water (washing water) to the lower portion of the water tank 11 ( Specifically, detergent water (water + detergent) is supplied 108 between the water tank and the drum (108).

Therefore, the control unit 72 detects the water level supplied to the water tank 11 through the water level sensor 16 to determine whether it is a target washing water level (water level determined according to the set washing quantity), and the water level supplied to the water tank 11. The water supply continues until the target washing level is reached.

When the water level supplied to the water tank 11 reaches the target washing water level through the water supply operation, the controller 72 stops the cold water or hot water valves 33 and 34 to stop the water supply operation.

When the washing water (specifically, detergent water) water supply to the target washing level is completed, the control unit 72 generates a large amount of bubbles by using the circulation of the washing water (specifically, detergent water) and the rotation of the drum 12. The bubble generation process proceeds (110).

Basic washing operation is to drive the drum 12 by driving the washing motor 15 at the target RPM and operation rate (motor on-off time) set according to the weight of the laundry (loading amount) after supplying detergent water (washing water + detergent). Stirring the left and right, the washing proceeds for a set washing time by using the flow and the water flow of the laundry generated by the left and right stirring of the drum (12).

On the other hand, the bubble generating stroke drives the pump 51 after supplying the detergent water (washing water + detergent) to circulate the water (specifically, the detergent water) inside the water tank 11 and simultaneously washes the washing motor 15. The drum 12 is rotated left and right by driving at a constant RPM (about 80-89 RPM) and an operation rate (14 seconds on / 6 seconds off). Accordingly, when water between the drum 12 and the water tank 11 is circulated and flowed back into the water tank 11, a large amount of bubbles are generated due to friction caused by the rotation of the drum 12 to promote detergent dissolution. In addition, the generated bubbles overflow toward the diaphragm of the door 19 in front of the drum 12, thereby improving the quality of sensitivity to the washing performance felt by the user. When washing, the flow path direction of the flow path switching valve 52 is switched to the circulation flow path 56a so that the water pumped from the water tank 11 is not drained to the outside through the circulation pipe 56 as the pump 51 is driven. Let it flow back into (11).

The algorithm progress of the bubble generation stroke will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.

In this case, the controller 72 counts the progress time of the bubble generation stroke and determines whether a predetermined time (about 1 to 2 minutes; hereinafter referred to as a fifth time) has elapsed (112).

As a result of the determination in step 112, if the fifth time (about 1 to 2 minutes) does not pass, the control unit 72 feeds back to step 110 and proceeds to the bubble generation stroke until the fifth time elapses.

On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step 112, when the fifth time has elapsed, the control unit 72 stops the bubble generation stroke, and the number of progresses of the bubble generation stroke (N; drives the pump and the washing motor to circulate water and rotates the drum). Count) (114).

As such, after generating a large amount of bubbles through the bubble generation stroke, the control unit 72 is the washing motor (at a target RPM (about, 40 ~ 50 RPM) and the operation rate (motor on-off time) set for the washing stroke) 15) by driving the drum 12 to the left and right stirring to generate a water flow for delivering the detergent water (washing water + detergent) to the laundry to proceed to the basic washing stroke (116).

When the basic washing stroke is performed, since a large amount of bubbles generated through the bubble generating stroke is already applied to the laundry, the washing performance can be improved and the visibility of the bubble felt by the user is improved. It becomes possible.

At this time, the controller 72 counts the stop time of the bubble generation stroke and determines whether a predetermined time (time for proceeding the bubble generation stroke, about 5 minutes before the bubble disappears) has elapsed (118).

Since a large amount of bubbles generated in accordance with the progress of the bubble generation stroke is extinguished after about 5 to 6 minutes, the drum (only 5 minutes; hereinafter referred to as the sixth time) has to be repeated in the bubble generating stroke again. The bubble applied to the inside of 12) can be maintained.

As a result of the determination in step 118, if the sixth time (about 5 minutes) has not elapsed, the control unit 72 feeds back to step 116 and proceeds with the basic washing process until the sixth time elapses.

On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step 118, when the sixth time elapses, the control unit 72 stops the basic washing stroke, and the reference number of times Ns for which the number of bubble generation strokes is counted is determined. Determining whether or not the optimal number of times, about 2 to 4 times, to promote detergent dissolution and increase the visibility of the bubble felt by the user has been reached (120).

As a result of the determination in step 120, if the number of times N of the bubble generating strokes does not reach the reference number of times Ns, the controller 72 feeds back to step 110 and the reference number of times Ns determined according to the washing time of each washing course. The pump 51 is driven to circulate the water until the pump reaches the c), and at the same time, the washing motor 15 is driven in the forward and reverse directions to continue the bubble generating step of stirring the drum 12 left and right.

On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step 120, when the number of times of the bubble generating stroke N reaches the reference number of times Ns, the control unit 72 ends the bubble generating stroke and the target set to continue the washing for the remaining washing time. The washing motor 15 is driven at an RPM (about 40-50 RPM) and an operation rate (motor on-off time). In accordance with the operation of the washing motor 15, the drum 12 is left and right stirred to generate a stream of water for delivering detergent water (washing water + detergent) to the laundry, thereby performing a basic washing process (122).

Subsequently, the controller 72 determines whether the set washing time has elapsed according to the weight of the laundry (124).

As a result of the determination in step 124, if the washing time has not elapsed, the control unit 72 feeds back to step 122 and performs the basic washing process until the remaining washing time elapses.

On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step 124, when the washing time elapses, the control unit 72 stops the washing motor 15, drains the detergent water (washing water + detergent) (126), and proceeds to intermediate dehydration (128). . When draining, the flow path direction of the flow path switching valve 52 is switched to the drain flow path 55a so that the water discharged from the water tank 11 does not flow into the water tank 11 as the pump 51 drives the drain pipe 55. Through the outside. If the flow path direction of the flow path switching valve 51 is normally switched to the drain flow path 55a (except when washing), the flow path direction of the flow path switching valve 51 may not be switched. In this case, the driving unit 74 It is not necessary to operate the flow path switching valve 51 via.

Subsequently, the control unit 72 operates the cold water or hot water valves 33 and 34 to supply water (rinsing water) necessary for the rinsing stroke.

When the cold water or hot water valves 33 and 34 are operated, the cold water or hot water valves 33 and 34 are opened and water (rinsing water) passes through the cold water or hot water supply pipes 31 and 32 to supply water to the water tank 11 ( 130). At this time, the control unit 72 controls the water supply operation with the stirred water supplying the rinsing water while stirring the drum 12 left and right to improve the rinsing performance. This is because the laundry adhering to the drum 12 due to the intermediate dehydration after the washing stroke falls well mixed with water, thereby improving the rinsing performance.

Therefore, the controller 72 detects the water level supplied to the water tank 11 through the water level sensor 16, and determines whether it is a target rinsing water level (water level determined according to the set amount of rinsing water), and the water level supplied to the water tank 11. The water supply operation continues until the target rinse level is reached.

When the rinsing water supply to the target rinsing water level is completed, the control unit 72 drives the washing motor 15 at the target RPM and the operation rate (motor on-off time) set for the rinsing stroke to stir the drum 12 left and right. The water (rinse water) generates a stream of water in contact with the laundry to proceed with the rinse stroke (132).

When rinsing is completed for a set rinsing time, the controller 72 stops the washing motor 15 and drains water (rinsing water) (134). The progress of this rinse stroke is repeated for a fixed number of times.

When the rinsing stroke is performed for a predetermined number of times and the last rinsing is completed, the controller 72 determines whether the dehydration stroke is performed (136).

As a result of the determination in step 136, if it is not the dehydration stroke, the controller 72 feeds back to step 128 to proceed with intermediate dehydration, and then proceeds to the subsequent operation.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step 136 that the dehydration stroke, the control unit 72 proceeds to the dehydration RPM (about 700 ~ 1000 RPM or more) set the final dehydration stroke (138).

The driving profile of the washing motor 15 which stirs the drum 12 left and right in the bubble generation stroke is shown in FIG. 5.

5 is a graph showing a driving profile of the washing motor in the bubble generation stroke of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 5, the bubble generation stroke is performed by supplying water (washing water) into the drum 12, and then rotating the washing motor 15 at a predetermined RPM (RPM which generates friction by generating friction between the drum and the water tank); , While driving at the operation rate of 14 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off while maintaining at 80 ~ 89 RPM) by rotating the drum 12 left and right stirring (specifically, the water between the drum 12 and the water tank 11, Friction in detergent water). A large amount of bubbles are generated by friction of water (specifically, detergent water) between the drum 12 and the water tank 11 to promote detergent dissolution, and the generated bubbles are provided on the door 19 in front of the drum 12. The diaphragm overflows to improve the user's emotional quality of washing performance.

This bubble generation stroke starts after the wash water supply is terminated. When the diameter of the drum 12 is about 500 mm 50 mm in order to generate bubbles, the washing motor 15 is driven for at least one minute (about 1 to 2 minutes) at 80 to 89 RPM, wherein the washing motor 15 is The drive is not continuous, and the on time and off time are repeated, as shown in FIG. The reason for the off time is that in addition to the turbulence caused by the left and right stirring rotation of the drum 12, the drum 12 stops and operates to induce further turbulence, and the generated bubbles are generated in the door 19 at the front of the washing machine 1. This is to give time to the diaphragm of.

On the other hand, a predetermined RPM (about, 80 ~ 89 RPM) for generating bubbles is set higher than the washing RPM (about, 40-50 RPM), lower than the dehydration RPM (about, 700 RPM or more).

In addition, since the bubbles generated through the bubble generating stroke are extinguished after about 5 to 6 minutes, the left and right stirring of the additional drum 12 is performed within a maximum of 5 minutes to generate a large amount of bubbles to maintain the visibility of the bubbles. do.

Next, the algorithm progress of the bubble generation stroke will be described with reference to FIG. 6.

6 is a flowchart illustrating a bubble generation stroke operation of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 6, when the supply of water (specifically, detergent water) between the drum 12 and the water tank 11 is completed, the control unit 72 operates the flow path switching valve 51 through the driving unit 74 to The flow path direction is switched to the circulation flow path 56a (200). When the flow path direction of the flow path switching valve 52 is switched to the circulation flow path 56a, the circulation structure in which water discharged from the water tank 11 flows back into the water tank 11 through the circulation pipe 56 without being drained to the outside Has

In a state where the flow path direction of the flow path switching valve 52 is switched to the circulation flow path 56a, the control unit 72 drives the pump 51 through the driving unit 74 and drives the washing motor 15 at a constant RPM (about, 80 to 89 RPM; hereinafter referred to as bubble generation RPM) to forward driving (201).

Subsequently, the controller 72 counts the time for driving the pump 51 and forward driving the washing motor 15 at the bubble generating RPM to determine whether a predetermined first time (about 14 seconds) has elapsed (202). .

As a result of the determination in step 202, if the first time has not elapsed, the control unit 72 feeds back to step 201 to drive the pump 51 until the first time elapses, and the washing motor 15 is driven forward with the bubble generating RPM. Let's do it.

As such, when the pump 51 is driven, water (specifically, detergent water) between the drum 12 and the water tank 11 is circulated through the circulation pipe 56 to be introduced into the lower side of the water tank 11. When the washing motor 15 is driven forward with the bubble generating RPM for the first time (14 seconds), the drum 12 is strongly rotated in one direction. As the drum 12 rotates strongly, turbulence occurs because friction occurs in water introduced into the water tank 11 through the circulation pipe 56. Bubbles are generated by the generation of turbulence due to the circulation of water and the rotation of the drum 12 to promote detergent dissolution.

On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step 202, when the first time elapses, the control unit 72 stops the pump 51 and the washing motor 15 through the driving unit 74 (204), and then the pump 51 and the washing motor. The time to stop (15) is counted to determine whether the predetermined second time (about 6 seconds) has elapsed (206).

If it is determined in step 206 that the second time has not elapsed, the controller 72 feeds back to step 204 to stop the pump 51 and the washing motor 15 until the second time elapses.

As such, when the washing motor 15 is stopped for the second time (6 seconds) after the driving of the washing motor 15 in the forward direction, in addition to the turbulence caused by the rotation of the drum 12, the drum 12 stops and operates. Induces generation, and the generated bubbles come out toward the diaphragm of the door 19 in the front of the washing machine 1 to improve the quality of sensitivity to the washing performance felt by the user.

On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step 206, when the second time elapses, the controller 72 drives the pump 51 through the driving unit 74 and drives the washing motor 15 in the reverse direction to the bubble generation RPM (208).

Subsequently, the controller 72 counts the time for driving the pump 51 and driving the washing motor 15 backward with the bubble generating RPM to determine whether the first time has elapsed (210).

As a result of the determination in step 210, if the first time has not elapsed, the control unit 72 feeds back to step 208 to drive the pump 51 until the first time elapses, and to drive the washing motor 15 backward with the bubble generating RPM. Let's do it.

As such, when the pump 51 is driven, water (specifically, detergent water) between the drum 12 and the water tank 11 is circulated through the circulation pipe 56 to be introduced into the water tank 11, and the washing is performed. When the motor 15 is driven in the reverse direction for the first time (14 seconds) at the bubble generating RPM, the drum 12 is strongly rotated in the opposite direction. At this time, a strong friction against water (specifically, detergent water) flowing into the water tank 11 through the circulation pipe 56 according to the reaction force of the drum 12 strongly rotating in the opposite direction in the state of inducing additional turbulence is generated. More turbulent. Strong generation of turbulence due to rotation in the opposite direction of the drum 12 generates a large amount of bubbles to promote detergent dissolution.

On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step 210, when the first time elapses, the controller 72 stops the pump 51 and the washing motor 14 through the driving unit 74 (212), and then the pump 51 and the washing motor. The time to stop (14) is counted to determine whether the second time has elapsed (214).

If it is determined in step 214 that the second time has not elapsed, the controller 72 feeds back to step 212 to stop the pump 51 and the washing motor 15 until the second time elapses.

As such, when the washing motor 15 is stopped for the second time (6 seconds) after the reverse driving of the washing motor 15, the drum 12 stops in addition to the strong turbulence due to rotation in the opposite direction of the drum 12. In operation, further turbulence is generated, and the generated bubbles overflow into the diaphragm of the door 19 in the front of the washing machine 1, thereby further increasing the visibility of the bubble felt by the user.

On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step 214, when the second time elapses, the control unit 72 counts the progress time of the bubble generation stroke according to the driving of the pump 51 and the forward and reverse driving of the washing motor 15 (216). ).

Subsequently, the control unit 72 proceeds to step 112 and determines whether the progress time of the counting bubble generation stroke has elapsed for the fifth time (about 1 to 2 minutes). As a result of the determination, if the fifth time (about 1 to 2 minutes) does not pass, the control unit 72 continues the bubble generation stroke until the fifth time elapses.

On the other hand, when the fifth time elapses, the controller 72 determines that a large amount of bubbles have been generated in the drum 12, and ends the bubble generation process.

Meanwhile, in an embodiment of the present invention, the motor RPM of the bubble generation stroke has been described as an example of maintaining 80 to 89 RPM, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The motor RPM of the bubble generation stroke is not limited thereto. Of course, the same object and effect as the present invention can be achieved by maintaining at any RPM between 50 RPM) and dehydration RPM (about 700 RPM or more).

In addition, in one embodiment of the present invention while maintaining the motor RPM of the bubble generating stroke to 80 ~ 89 RPM while driving at the operation rate of 14 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off to stir the drum 12 left and right for the fifth time In this case, the motor RPM and the operation rate are maintained to be the same regardless of the number of left and right stirrings, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the present invention is not limited thereto. Of course, the same purpose and effect can be achieved.

For example, during the first (one time) left and right stirring, the drum 12 is strongly stirred left and right by driving at an operation rate of 14 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off while maintaining the motor RPM at 80 to 89 RPM. In the case of the second (twice) left and right stirring, the drum 12 is strongly stirred left and right by driving at an operation rate of 12 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off while maintaining the motor RPM at 80 to 89 RPM. As the left and right stirring proceeds, the on time of the motor operation rate is changed so that a large amount of bubbles can be generated.

In addition, during the first (one time) left and right stirring, the drum 12 is strongly left and right stirred by driving at an operation rate of 14 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off while maintaining the motor RPM at 80 to 89 RPM. Twice) When the left and right stirring, while maintaining the motor RPM at 80 ~ 89 RPM to drive at the operation rate of 14 seconds motor on / 4 seconds motor off to strongly stir the drum 12, the left and right of the drum 12 As the stirring proceeds, the off time of the motor operation rate is changed so that a large amount of bubbles can be generated.

In addition, during the first (one time) left and right stirring, the drum 12 is strongly stirred left and right by driving at an operation rate of 14 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off while maintaining the motor RPM at 80 to 89 RPM. Twice) When the left and right stirring, while maintaining the motor RPM at 80 ~ 89 RPM while driving at the operation rate of 12 seconds motor on / 4 seconds motor off to strongly stir the drum 12, the left and right of the drum 12 As the stirring progresses, both the on time and the off time of the motor operation rate are changed so that a large amount of bubbles can be generated.

On the other hand, in one embodiment of the present invention, when the bubble generation stroke is driven at the operation rate of 14 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off while maintaining the motor RPM of the bubble generation stroke at 80 ~ 89 RPM, the progress of the bubble generation stroke Although the present invention has been described with an example of maintaining the motor RPM and the operation rate the same regardless of the number of times, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the present invention is not limited thereto. Of course, the same purpose and effect can be achieved.

For example, during the first (once) bubble generation stroke, the drum 12 is strongly stirred left and right by driving at an operation rate of 14 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off while maintaining the motor RPM at 80 to 89 RPM. When the second (twice) bubble generation stroke is performed, the drum 12 is strongly stirred left and right by driving at a driving rate of 12 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off while maintaining the motor RPM at 80 to 89 RPM. As a result, a large amount of bubbles may be generated by changing the on time of the motor operation rate according to the number of times of the bubble generating stroke.

In addition, during the progress of the first (once) bubble generation stroke, the drum 12 is strongly stirred left and right by driving at an operation rate of 14 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off while maintaining the motor RPM at 80 to 89 RPM. In the second (twice) bubble generation process, while maintaining the motor RPM of 80 ~ 89 RPM while driving at the operation rate of 14 seconds motor on / 4 seconds motor off by strongly stirring the drum 12, The off time of the motor operation rate is changed according to the number of times the bubble generation stroke is performed so that a large amount of bubbles can be generated.

In addition, during the progress of the first (once) bubble generation stroke, while maintaining the motor RPM at 80 ~ 89 RPM to drive at the operation rate of 14 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off to strongly stir the drum 12, During the second (twice) bubble generation process, while maintaining the motor RPM of 80 ~ 89 RPM while driving at the operation rate of 12 seconds motor on / 4 seconds motor off by strongly stirring the drum 12, The on-off time and the off-time of the motor operation rate are changed according to the number of times of the bubble generation stroke so that a large amount of bubbles can be generated.

On the other hand, in one embodiment of the present invention, when the bubble generation stroke is driven at the operation rate of 14 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off while maintaining the motor RPM of the bubble generation stroke at 80 ~ 89 RPM, the progress of the bubble generation stroke Although the motor RPM and the operation rate are maintained to be the same regardless of the number, the present invention has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the same purpose and effect as the present invention can be achieved even if the motor RPM is changed according to the number of times the bubble is generated. Of course you can.

On the other hand, in one embodiment of the present invention while maintaining the motor RPM of the bubble generation stroke of 80 ~ 89 RPM while driving at the operation rate of 14 seconds motor on / 6 seconds motor off by stirring the drum 12 left and right for the fifth time In this case, the motor RPM and the operation rate are maintained to be the same regardless of the number of left and right stirring, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the present invention is not limited thereto. Of course it can be achieved.

1: washing machine 11: water tank
12: drum 15: washing motor
40: control panel 50: flow path switching device
51 pump 52 flow path switching valve
53 pump case 55 drain pipe
56: circulation tube 70: input unit
72: control unit 74:
76: display unit

Claims (34)

In a control method of a washing machine comprising a water tank, a drum rotatably installed in the water tank, and a pump for circulating water in the water tank,
(a) after washing water to the bath, rotating the drum in one direction for a first time;
(b) after rotating the drum in one direction, stopping the drum for a second time;
(c) when the second time has elapsed, rotating the drum in the opposite direction for a third time;
(d) after the drum rotates in the opposite direction, stopping the drum for a fourth time;
When the left and right stirring operation of the drum consisting of the steps (a) to (d), the control method of the washing machine to proceed with the bubble generating stroke to generate bubbles by the rotation of the drum and the friction of the circulating water. The method of claim 1,
The bubble generating step is a control method of the washing machine made after the water supply stroke for supplying water and detergent to the water tank for washing. The method of claim 1,
Further comprising a washing motor for rotating the drum,
During the rotation of the drum in one direction, while maintaining the washing motor at a constant RPM control method of the washing machine to drive in the forward direction for the first time. The method of claim 3,
While rotating the drum in the opposite direction, the control method of the washing machine for driving the washing machine in the reverse direction for the third time while maintaining the washing motor at a constant RPM. 5. The method of claim 4,
Wherein the first time and the third time are the same time. The method of claim 5,
And the second time and the fourth time are the same time. The method according to claim 6,
The second time is a control method of the washing machine is set to be shorter than the first time. The method of claim 7, wherein
The first time is 14 seconds control method of the washing machine. The method of claim 7, wherein
The second time is 6 seconds control method of the washing machine. 5. The method of claim 4,
The first time and the third time is a different time control method of the washing machine. 5. The method of claim 4,
And the second time and the fourth time are different times. 5. The method of claim 4,
When the left and right stirring of the drum, the predetermined RPM is at least 80 RPM or more control method of the washing machine. 5. The method of claim 4,
When the left and right stirring of the drum, the control method of the washing machine further comprising changing the motor RPM. The method of claim 1,
Further comprising changing the motor driving time or the motor stopping time at the time of left-right stirring of the drum. The method of claim 1,
Control method of the washing machine to perform the left and right stirring operation of the drum consisting of the steps (a) ~ (d) for a predetermined time. The method of claim 1,
Counting the number of times the bubble generating stroke is performed;
The control method of the washing machine to terminate the bubble generation stroke when the counted number of progresses reaches the predetermined reference number of times. 17. The method of claim 16,
The control method of the washing machine to determine the reference number of times considering the washing time for each washing course. A water tank containing water;
A drum rotatably installed in the tank;
A washing motor rotating the drum;
A flow path switching device for switching a flow path to drain or circulate the water in the tank;
A washing machine including a controller for controlling the flow path switching device after supplying water and detergent to the water tank to circulate the water in the water tank and controlling the washing motor to perform a bubble generating stroke for stirring the drum left and right . 19. The method of claim 18,
The control unit is a washing machine for driving the motor at a constant RPM and operation rate when stirring the left and right of the drum. 20. The method of claim 19,
The control unit is a washing machine for rotating the drum stirring the motor RPM to at least 80 RPM or more. 21. The method of claim 20,
The control unit is a washing machine for changing the motor RPM during the stirring rotation of the drum. 21. The method of claim 20,
The control unit is a washing machine for changing the motor operation rate during the stirring rotation of the drum. 19. The method of claim 18,
The control unit counts the left and right stirring time of the drum and reaches a predetermined time to stop the left and right stirring operation of the drum. 19. The method of claim 18,
The flow path switching device includes a pump for pumping water in the water tank, and a flow path switching valve for switching the flow path to drain water discharged from the water tank by the pump to the outside or to circulate the water tank. A control method of a washing machine comprising a water tank, a drum rotatably installed in the water tank, a washing motor for rotating the drum, and a pump for circulating water in the water tank,
Supplying water and detergent to the tank;
Driving the pump to circulate the water discharged from the water tank into the water tank, and simultaneously driving the washing motor at a predetermined RPM and an operation rate to perform a bubble generation step of stirring the drum left and right;
Driving the washing motor at a target RPM and an operation rate to proceed with a washing stroke of stirring the drum left and right;
And counting the advancing time of the bubble generating stroke and the advancing time of the washing stroke and then passing the bubble generating stroke and the washing stroke alternately. 26. The method of claim 25,
The bubble generation stroke,
Rotating the drum in one direction for a first time;
After one direction of rotation of the drum, the drum is stopped for a second time;
When the second time has elapsed, rotating the drum in the opposite direction for the first time;
And after the drum rotates in the opposite direction, stopping the drum for a second time. The method of claim 26,
The bubble generation stroke,
During the left and right stirring the drum, the control method of the washing machine to generate a bubble by the rotation of the drum and the friction of the water circulating by driving the pump. The method of claim 26,
The bubble generation stroke,
During the left and right stirring the drum, while maintaining the washing motor at a constant RPM control method of the washing machine to drive in the forward or reverse direction for the first time. 26. The method of claim 25,
The motor RPM of the bubble generation stroke is set higher than the motor RPM of the washing stroke. 26. The method of claim 25,
The control method of the washing machine, wherein the advancing time of the bubble generating stroke is set shorter than the advancing time of the washing stroke. 26. The method of claim 25,
Counting the number of times of the bubble generation stroke,
The control method of the washing machine further comprising the step of ending the bubble generating stroke, when the counted number of progresses reaches a predetermined reference number of times. 32. The method of claim 31,
The control method of the washing machine to proceed only the washing stroke for the remaining washing time after the end of the bubble generating stroke. 32. The method of claim 31,
The reference number of times is at least two times the control method of the washing machine. A control method of a washing machine comprising a water tank, a drum rotatably installed in the water tank, a pump for pumping water in the water tank, and a flow path switching valve for switching a flow path to drain or circulate water in the water tank.
Determine whether it is a laundry administration;
If the washing stroke, operating the flow path switching valve to switch the flow path such that water discharged from the water tank flows into the water tank;
Operating the pump to introduce water discharged from the tank into the tank;
The control method of the washing machine to proceed with the bubble generating stroke to generate a bubble by the friction of the drum and the water flowing into the tank by rotating the drum.

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