KR20220108938A - Control method of dishwasher - Google Patents

Abstract

A dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a tub forming a washing chamber in which a washing object is accommodated; a sump disposed at the lower part of the tub and storing washing water; a filter disposed in the sump and filtering washing water introduced from the tub; at least one spray nozzle provided in the washing chamber to be able to rotate and spray the washing water into the washing chamber; and a washing pump connected to the sump and the spray nozzle and supplying the washing water stored in the sump to the spray nozzle. A method for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises the steps of: measuring a clogging level of a filter; determining whether the clogging level of a filter is out of a set range; washing the filter by operating the washing pump; and washing the filter and then measuring the clogging level of the filter again. A filter-washing effect can be enhanced.

Description

CONTROL METHOD OF DISHWASHER

The present invention relates to a method for controlling a dishwasher, and more particularly, to a method for controlling a dishwasher for washing a filter provided in the dishwasher.

The content described in this section merely provides background information on the present invention and does not constitute the prior art.

BACKGROUND ART In general, a dishwasher is a device that sprays washing water at a high pressure to stored dishes, washes them, and then dries them. Specifically, the dishwasher operates so that washing water is sprayed at high pressure into the tub in which the dishes are accommodated, and the sprayed washing water comes into contact with the dishes to wash foreign substances such as food residues on the surface of the dishes.

A dishwasher generally includes a tub forming a washing chamber and a sump mounted on the bottom of the tub to store washing water.

Then, the washing water is moved to the jet arm by the pumping action of the washing pump mounted inside the sump, and the washing water moved to the jet arm is injected at high pressure through the jet port formed in the jet arm.

Then, the washing water sprayed at high pressure collides with the surface of the washing target, and the dirt on the washing target falls to the bottom of the tub.

The dishwasher may circulate washing water for washing dishes to be washed during the washing process and spray it onto the dishes using the spray nozzle. In the washing process, the washing water may flow sequentially through, for example, a sump, a washing pump, a switching valve, a pipe connected to the switching valve, a spray nozzle, and a filter disposed at the bottom of the tub, and then flow back into the sump, You can cycle through these paths.

In this process, the dirt contained in the washing water is filtered by the filter, and the washing water from which the dirt has been filtered is circulated again and is sprayed through the spray nozzle, thereby suppressing clogging of the spray hole of the spray nozzle by the dirt.

However, if the dishwasher is used repeatedly, the filter may become clogged with dirt. For example, dirt may adhere to a filter formed of a mesh, and the flow of washing water may be obstructed.

Therefore, it is necessary to periodically clean the filter in order to maintain the normal function of the dishwasher in case of repeated use.

The cleaning of the filter may be performed by a user manually cleaning the filter. However, in consideration of the user's convenience, it is necessary to control the dishwasher so that the dishwasher determines whether to wash the filter by itself and washes the filter.

Korean Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-2007-0105054 (Prior Art 1) discloses a dishwasher equipped with a foreign material discharge structure that allows fine foreign substances hanging on the filter assembly to completely escape during the draining process to keep the sanitary condition inside the sump clean. is initiated.

Korean Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-2017-0010551 (Prior Art 2) discloses a dishwasher and a control method of the dishwasher that can predict the cleaning time of a filter that filters washing water.

However, prior art 1 and prior art 2 do not disclose a series of processes of determining whether the filter is clogged and automatically washing the filter when the filter is clogged.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a dishwasher in which the dishwasher determines whether a filter needs to be washed by itself, and the dishwasher automatically cleans the filter.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a control method of a dishwasher for washing a filter by controlling an operation of a washing motor in the dishwasher.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a method of controlling a dishwasher for washing a filter by repeatedly changing the level of washing water for the filter.

The objects of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned objects, and other objects and advantages of the present invention not mentioned may be understood by the following description, and will be more clearly understood by the examples of the present invention. It will also be readily apparent that the objects and advantages of the present invention may be realized by the means and combinations thereof indicated in the appended claims.

An embodiment of the control method of the dishwasher may be configured by each of the following processes.

The control unit may measure the clogging level of the filter. Based on the result of measuring the clogging level, the control unit may determine whether the clogging level of the filter is out of a set range.

As an embodiment, in measuring the clogging level of the filter, the controller may measure the number of clogging of the filter that occurs during a cycle in which the dishwasher cleans the object to be washed.

By summing the number of times the filter is clogged during one stroke, it can be the number of times the filter is clogged during one stroke.

The number of clogging of the filter may be measured during a plurality of cycles in which the dishwasher washes the object to be washed. In this case, a plurality of processes for measuring the number of clogging of the filter may be performed at a time interval from each other.

On the first day, the number of clogging of the filter can be measured in Stroke 1, which is the entire process of washing dishes once, and on the second day, the number of clogging of the filter can be measured in Admin. 2, which is the entire process of washing dishes once on the second day.

In addition, the number of clogging of the filter can be measured in Stroke 3, which is the entire process of washing dishes once on the third day, and the number of clogging of the filter can be measured in Admin. 4, which is the entire process of washing dishes once on the fourth day.

When the number of times of clogging is out of a set range, the dishwasher may wash the filter. In this case, when the number of times of clogging of the filters measured in Steps 1 to 4 is sequentially increased, it is determined that the number of times of clogging is out of a set range, and the controller may wash the filter.

When the number of clogging measured in strokes 1 to 4 increases from stroke 1 to stroke 4, filter cleaning, that is, washing the filter may be performed. This is because dirt is adsorbed to the filter and this adsorption is continuously accumulated, and in this case, it can be determined that the filter is actually clogged by the dirt.

As another embodiment, in measuring the clogging level of the filter, the controller may measure the total of clogging holding times of the filter that occur during one cycle in which the dishwasher cleans the object to be washed.

In this case, when the total of the clogging holding time is out of the set range, it is determined that the filter is clogged by dirt, and the control unit may perform cleaning of the filter.

The total of the clogging holding time of the filter may be measured during a plurality of cycles in which the dishwasher washes the object to be washed. In this case, a plurality of processes for measuring the total of the clogging holding time of the filter may be performed at a time interval from each other.

At this time, when the average value of the total of the measured clogging holding times of the filters is out of the set range, it is determined that the filter is clogged by dirt, and the control unit may wash the filter.

When the clogging level of the filter is out of the set range and cleaning of the filter is required, the control unit may operate the cleaning pump to wash the filter.

In washing the filter, the control unit may repeatedly change the level of washing water for the filter in the sump by repeatedly operating and stopping the washing pump.

The washing of the filter by the washing motor of the control unit may be performed at an appropriate time before the dish washing process starts, after the dish washing process ends, or while the dish washing process is performed.

The control unit may clean the filter by opening the pipe connected to all the injection nozzles. In washing the filter, the control unit may control the switching valve to open the pipe connected to the lower part spray nozzle, the upper part spray nozzle, and the top spray nozzle. The control unit may control the washing motor to repeat the operation and stop of the washing pump, thereby performing filter washing.

The control unit may heat the washing water stored in the sump. The heating of the washing water may be performed while the washing motor is stopped.

The control unit may clean the filter by opening a pipe connected to the top injection nozzle. In washing the filter, the controller may control the switching valve to close the pipe connected to the lower part spray nozzle and the upper part spray nozzle, and open the pipe connected to the top spray nozzle. The control unit may control the washing motor to repeat the operation and stop of the washing pump, thereby performing filter washing.

A dishwasher according to an embodiment includes a tub forming a washing chamber in which an object to be washed is accommodated, a sump disposed below the tub, a sump in which washing water is stored, a filter for filtering washing water flowing from the tub, and washing It may include at least one jet nozzle rotatably provided in the chamber and spraying washing water into the washing chamber, and a washing pump connected to the sump and the jet nozzle, and supplying the washing water stored in the sump to the jet nozzle.

A method of controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment includes measuring a clogging level of a filter, determining whether the clogging level of the filter is out of a set range, operating a washing pump to wash the filter, and the filter After washing the filter, it may include the step of measuring the clogging level of the filter again.

In the control method of the dishwasher according to the present invention, since the dishwasher cleans the clogged filter itself without the user by repeating the operation and stopping of the washing motor, the user's convenience can be improved.

Also, in the control method of the dishwasher according to the present invention, in the washing process of the filter, the washing process using all the jet nozzles and pipes connected to them, the washing process by heating washing water, and some jet nozzles and the pipe connected thereto are used By repeating the process, it is possible to increase the cleaning effect of the filter.

In addition, in the control method of the dishwasher according to the present invention, it is possible to increase the hygiene level inside the dishwasher by performing the sterilization of the filter together with the washing of the filter.

In addition to the above-described effects, the specific effects of the present invention will be described together while describing specific details for carrying out the invention below.

1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.
2 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling a dishwasher according to an exemplary embodiment.
3 is a view for explaining a method of measuring a clogging level of a filter according to an embodiment.
4 is a graph for explaining a method of determining whether to wash a filter according to an embodiment.
5 is a view for explaining a method of measuring a clogging level of a filter according to another embodiment.
6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of washing a filter according to an exemplary embodiment.
7 is a diagram illustrating a structure of a filter according to an embodiment.
8 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a dishwasher according to another exemplary embodiment.

The above-described objects, features and advantages will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and accordingly, those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will be able to easily implement the technical idea of the present invention. In describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a known technology related to the present invention may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar components.

Although the first, second, etc. are used to describe various elements, these elements are not limited by these terms, of course. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from other components, and unless otherwise stated, the first component may be the second component, of course.

Throughout the specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

As used herein, the singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In the present application, terms such as "consisting of" or "comprising" should not be construed as necessarily including all of the various components or various steps described in the specification, some of which components or some steps are It should be construed that it may not include, or may further include additional components or steps.

Throughout the specification, when “A and/or B” is used, it means A, B or A and B, unless specifically stated to the contrary, and when “C to D” is used, it means that there is no specific contrary description. Unless otherwise specified, it means that it is greater than or equal to C and less than or equal to D.

1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

The dishwasher according to this embodiment includes a case 12 forming an exterior, a tub 16 provided inside the case 12 to form a washing chamber 16a in which a washing object is accommodated, and a front surface of the tub 16 . It includes a door 14 for opening and closing the washing chamber 16a and a sump 40 disposed below the tub 16 and storing washing water.

A filter 42 for filtering the washing water flowing in from the tub 16 may be disposed in the sump 40 according to the present embodiment.

The dishwasher according to the present embodiment is provided rotatably in the washing chamber 16a and includes at least one spray nozzle 20, 22, 24, and the sump for spraying washing water into the washing chamber 16a in the tub 16. 40) and the washing pump 60 connected to the jet nozzles 20, 22, 24 and supplying the washing water stored in the sump 40 to the jet nozzles 20, 22, 24, and the washing pump 60 supplied from It includes a switching valve 59 for connecting the washing water to at least one of the spray nozzles, and the racks 30a and 30b accommodated in the washing chamber 16a and on which the washing object is mounted.

The racks 30a and 30b according to this embodiment have a structure for mounting the object to be washed so as to wash the object to be washed with the washing water sprayed by the plurality of spray nozzles 20, 22, and 24, and the inside of the washing chamber 16a It may include an upper rack (30a) disposed on the upper side and a lower rack (30b) disposed on the lower side based on the position disposed in the .

The plurality of injection nozzles 20 , 22 , and 24 may be disposed in the vertical direction. The plurality of spray nozzles 20, 22, and 24 according to the present embodiment are disposed in the lower portion of the washing chamber 16a and spray the washing water from the lower side toward the lower rack 30b from the lower side to the upper side. The upper part spray nozzle 22 disposed between the rack 30a and the lower rack 30b and spraying washing water to the lower rack 30b and the upper rack 30a, and the washing chamber 16a located above the upper rack 30a ) is disposed on the top and includes a top spray nozzle 24 for spraying washing water into the space of the washing chamber 16a.

The upper partial spray nozzle 22 may be disposed above the lower partial spray nozzle 20 in the washing chamber, and the top spray nozzle 24 may be disposed above the upper partial spray nozzle 22 in the washing chamber. The plurality of injection nozzles 20 , 22 , and 24 may receive washing water from the washing pump 60 through the plurality of injection nozzle connecting pipes 20a , 22a , 24a .

The switching valve 59 may selectively supply the washing water pumped by the washing pump 60 to at least one of the lower spray nozzle 20 , the upper spray nozzle 22 , and the top spray nozzle 24 . The switching valve 59 may selectively connect at least one of the washing water supply pipe 100 through which the washing water discharged from the washing pump 60 flows and the plurality of injection nozzle connecting pipes 20a, 22a, and 24a.

The washing pump 60 may be connected to the sump 40 through a water collecting pipe 54 having a water collecting passage. A valve for opening and closing between the sump 40 and the washing pump 60 may be disposed at the inlet of the water collecting pipe 54 or the washing pump 60 .

The dishwasher according to the present embodiment may include a water supply assembly for supplying washing water into the dishwasher and a drainage assembly for draining water stored in the dishwasher.

The water supply assembly according to the present embodiment includes a water supply pipe 44 forming a water supply passage through which washing water is supplied from an external water source, a water supply valve 46 for opening and closing the water supply passage formed in the water supply pipe 44, and a sump through the water supply passage. It may include a flow meter 48 for measuring the flow rate of the washing water flowing to (40).

The drain assembly according to the present embodiment is disposed on the drain pipe 50 having a drain passage guiding the water stored in the sump 40 to the outside, and the drain passage formed in the drain pipe 50, to drain the washing water in the sump 40 . A drain pump 52 for draining to the outside may be provided. The drain pump 52 may include a drain motor that generates a rotational force.

The washing pump 60 according to the present embodiment may be coupled to the sump 40 , and may be connected to the jet nozzles 20 , 22 , 24 and the steam nozzle 32 .

The washing pump 60 according to the present embodiment may supply water stored in the sump 40 to the plurality of spray nozzles 20 , 22 , and 24 , or generate steam and send it to the steam nozzle 32 . The steam nozzle 32 may supply steam to the washing chamber 16a.

The dishwasher may further include a water collecting pipe 54 and a washing water supply pipe 100 . The water collecting pipe 54 may connect the sump 40 and the washing pump 60 . The washing water supply pipe 100 may connect the washing pump 60 and the spray nozzles 20 , 22 , and 24 .

The washing pump 60 according to the present embodiment is connected to the sump 40 through the water collecting pipe 54 . The washing pump 60 according to the present embodiment may be connected to the switching valve 59 and the injection nozzle through the washing water supply pipe 100 , and may be connected to the steam nozzle 32 through the steam supply pipe 88 .

The washing pump 60 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a housing 62 coupled to a sump 40 and forming an outer shape of the washing pump 60 , and a housing 62 disposed inside the housing 62 . ) an impeller 64 forming a flow of washing water stored therein, a washing motor 65 rotating the impeller 64, and a heater 70 mounted outside the housing 62 of the washing pump and heating the washing water to generate steam ) may be included.

The washing pump 60 may be connected to the jet nozzles 20 , 22 , and 24 , and may supply washing water to the jet nozzles 20 , 22 , and 24 . The washing motor 65 may be connected to the washing pump 60 through a rotation shaft to provide rotational force to the washing pump 60 .

When the drain pump 52 and the washing motor 65 are stopped, that is, when not operating, the washing pump 60 may store washing water in the housing 62 . At this time, the heater may generate steam by heating the stored washing water.

Washing water flowing inside the dishwasher according to the present embodiment flows through the sump 40 and the tub 16, and can wash the object to be washed. In addition, the washing water stored in the sump 40 may be supplied from an external water source through the water supply assembly and may be discharged to the outside through the drain assembly.

The washing water stored in the sump 40 may flow into the tub 16 as the washing motor 65 of the washing pump 60 rotates the impeller 64 . That is, by the operation of the washing motor 65 , the washing water inside the sump 40 flows into the washing pump 60 , and is pressurized from the washing pump 60 to the switching valve 59 , and the plurality of injection nozzles 20 , 22, 24) may flow.

The washing water stored in the sump 40 is introduced into the housing 62 through a water collecting pipe connected to the washing pump 60 . In addition, the washing water may flow to the switching valve 59 through the washing water supply pipe 100 connected to the washing pump 60 .

The sump 40 and the washing pump 60 are connected through the water collecting pipe 54 , and the washing pump 60 and the switching valve 59 are connected through the washing water supply pipe 100 . The selector valve 59 may be connected to the plurality of injection nozzles 20 , 22 , 24 through each of the connecting pipes 20a , 22a , 24a , and the selector valve 59 includes the washing water pumped by pressure from the washing pump 60 . is supplied to at least one spray nozzle.

The washing water injected into the tub 16 through the injection nozzle may be introduced into the sump 40 through a hole formed in the bottom portion 16b of the tub 16 .

Steam flowing inside the dishwasher according to the present embodiment is generated by the washing pump 60 . By operating the heater 70 , the washing water present in the housing 62 of the washing pump 60 may be generated as steam. In this case, it is preferable to minimize the flow of washing water inside the washing pump 60 .

Therefore, when generating steam in the housing 62 of the washing pump 60 , it is appropriate to stop the washing motor 65 and the impeller 64 from operating. Alternatively, even when the washing motor 65 is operated, it is appropriate to rotate the impeller 64 at a set rotation speed or less.

The steam generated by the washing pump 60 may flow into the steam supply pipe 88 connected to the washing pump 60 and may be introduced into the washing chamber 16a.

The dishwasher may circulate washing water for washing dishes to be washed during the washing process and spray it onto the dishes using the spray nozzle. In the washing process, the washing water is disposed at the bottom of, for example, the sump 40 , the washing pump 60 , the switching valve 59 , the pipe connected to the switching valve 59 , the injection nozzle, and the tub 16 . After sequentially flowing the filter, it may be introduced into the sump 40 again, and this path may be circulated.

At this time, the washing water sprayed with the spray nozzle and collided with the dishes falls to the bottom of the tub 16 , and the washing water that falls on the bottom of the tub 16 may include dirt separated from the dishes.

Washing water containing dirt may be formed at the bottom of the tub 16 and may be stored in the sump 40 through a passage through which the filter is disposed. In this process, the dirt contained in the washing water is filtered by the filter, and the washing water from which the dirt has been filtered is circulated again and is sprayed through the spray nozzle, thereby suppressing clogging of the spray hole of the spray nozzle by the dirt.

However, if the dishwasher is used repeatedly, the filter may become clogged with dirt. For example, dirt may be attached to the filter formed in a mesh structure, and the flow of washing water may be disturbed.

Therefore, it is necessary to periodically clean the filter in order to maintain the normal function of the dishwasher in case of repeated use.

The cleaning of the filter may be performed by a user manually cleaning the filter. However, in consideration of the user's convenience, it is necessary to control the dishwasher so that the dishwasher determines whether to wash the filter by itself and washes the filter.

Accordingly, the embodiment proposes a control method of the dishwasher in which the dishwasher determines whether the filter needs to be washed by itself, and the dishwasher automatically cleans the filter.

2 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling a dishwasher according to an exemplary embodiment. 3 is a view for explaining a method of measuring a clogging level of a filter according to an embodiment. 4 is a graph for explaining a method of determining whether to wash a filter according to an embodiment.

Control of each process to be described below may be controlled by a controller provided in the dishwasher. Control of the operation of the washing pump 60 may be implemented by the control unit controlling the operation of the washing motor connected to the washing pump 60 by a rotating shaft.

The control unit may measure the clogging level of the filter (S110). Based on the result of measuring the clogging level, the control unit may determine whether the clogging level of the filter is out of a set range (S120).

Hereinafter, the process of measuring the clogging level of the filter (S110) and the process of determining whether the clogging level of the filter is out of a set range (S120) will be described in detail.

In measuring the clogging level of the filter, the controller may measure the number of clogging of the filter that occurs during a cycle in which the dishwasher washes the object to be washed. Here, the process of washing the object to be washed refers to all processes from the beginning to the end of the dishwasher in which the object to be washed is stored in the washing room and the washing is started and completed.

For example, the controller may determine whether the filter is clogged by reading a change in current in electric power applied to the washing motor while the washing water is sprayed. That is, if the amount of current applied to the washing motor while spraying the washing water exceeds the set range, this means that the load on the washing motor increases because the filter is clogged and the washing water does not flow smoothly, so the control unit counts the filter as clogged. can do.

By summing the number of times the filter is clogged during one stroke, it may be the number of times the filter is clogged during the one stroke.

The number of clogging of the filter may be measured during a plurality of cycles in which the dishwasher washes the object to be washed. In this case, a plurality of processes for measuring the number of clogging of the filter may be performed at a time interval from each other.

The time interval for measuring the number of blockages may be, for example, about one day, but is not limited thereto, and may be further reduced or increased. Also, the respective time intervals may not be equal to each other.

If more than a day passes after using the dishwasher, watery dirt such as food scraps and internal components, including filters, may be completely dry. When the dish washing course is performed after complete drying, dirt that has become smaller during the drying process may pass through the filter and be drained. Therefore, if you measure the filter clogging in the course that starts after more than one day, you will get more accurate results.

Referring to FIG. 3 , the number of clogging of the filter is measured in step 1, which is the entire process of washing dishes once on the first day, and the number of clogging of the filter is measured in step 2, which is the overall process of washing dishes once on the second day. can do.

In addition, the number of clogging of the filter can be measured in Stroke 3, which is the entire process of washing dishes once on the third day, and the number of clogging of the filter can be measured in Admin. 4, which is the entire process of washing dishes once on the fourth day.

In the embodiment, although the number of clogging of the filter was measured for 4 cycles of washing dishes, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the clogging of the filter may be measured for more than 4 cycles.

When the number of times of clogging is out of a set range, the dishwasher may wash the filter. In this case, when the number of times of clogging of the filter measured in Steps 1 to 4 is sequentially increased, it is determined that the number of times of clogging is outside the set range, and the control unit may wash the filter.

Referring to FIG. 4 , if the number of times of clogging measured in steps 1 to 4 increases and decreases, but is constant without any significant change, it is determined that the filter is not clogged and the filter may not be washed.

If the number of clogging of the filter is constant without any major change, this is because the number of clogs increases or decreases due to differences in the flow rate of washing water flowing during dishwashing and the amount of dishes to be washed, and not the case where the filter is actually clogged by dirt. to be.

On the other hand, when the number of clogging measured in Stroke 1 to Stroke 4 increases from Stroke 1 to Stroke 4, filter cleaning, that is, washing the filter may be performed. This is because dirt is adsorbed to the filter and this adsorption is continuously accumulated, and in this case, it can be determined that the filter is actually clogged by the dirt.

5 is a view for explaining a method of measuring a clogging level of a filter according to another embodiment.

In measuring the clogging level of the filter, the controller may measure the total of clogging holding times of the filter that occur during one cycle in which the dishwasher washes the object to be washed.

Similar to the above-described case, for example, the controller may determine whether the filter is clogged by reading a change amount of current in the electric power applied to the washing motor while spraying the washing water.

That is, if the amount of current applied to the washing motor while spraying the washing water exceeds the set range, this means that the load on the washing motor increases because the filter is clogged and the flow of washing water is not smooth, so the controller determines that the filter is clogged. And, it is possible to measure the total of the clogging holding time of the filter that occurs during one stroke.

At this time, when the total of the clogging holding time is out of a set range, it is determined that the filter is clogged by dirt, and the control unit may perform cleaning of the filter. In this case, the set range may be appropriately selected as a time range.

The total of the clogging time of the filter may be measured during a plurality of cycles in which the dishwasher washes the object to be washed. In this case, a plurality of processes for measuring the total of the clogging holding time of the filter may be performed at a time interval from each other.

The time interval for measuring the total clogging time may be, for example, about one day, but is not limited thereto, and may be further reduced or increased. Also, the respective time intervals may not be equal to each other.

Referring to FIG. 5 , the total clogging time of the filter is measured in Admin. 1, which is the entire process of washing dishes once on the first day, and the clogging holding time in Admin. 2, which is the overall process of washing dishes once on the second day. can measure the sum of

In addition, on the third day, the total clogging time of the filter is measured in Stroke 3, which is the entire process of washing dishes once, and on the fourth day, the total clogging holding time is measured in Admin 4, which is the entire process of washing dishes once on the fourth day. can do.

In the embodiment, the total of the clogging holding time of the filter was measured for 4 cycles of washing dishes, but it is not limited thereto, and the total of the clogging holding time of the filter for more than 4 cycles may be measured. .

In this case, when the average value of the total of the measured clogging holding times of the filters is out of a set range, it is determined that the filter is clogged by dirt, and the control unit may perform cleaning of the filter. The set range may be appropriately selected as a time range.

When the clogging level of the filter is out of the set range and cleaning of the filter is required, the control unit may operate the washing pump 60 to wash the filter (S130).

6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of washing a filter according to an exemplary embodiment. 7 is a diagram illustrating a structure of a filter according to an embodiment.

In washing the filter, the controller may repeatedly change the level of washing water for the filter in the sump 40 by repeating the operation and stopping of the washing pump 60 .

That is, if the water level of the washing water is repeatedly changed, the flow direction of the washing water is repeatedly changed from the tub 16 to the sump 40 and, conversely, from the sump 40 to the tub 16, and the flow direction of the washing water is repeated. It is possible to remove the dirt attached to the filter as it is changed.

As shown in FIG. 7 , the filter may include, for example, a first filter 42b, a second fill, and a plate filter 42a. In this case, the filter may be disposed in the passage of the washing water formed in the tub 16 and the sump 40 .

The first filter 42b may be disposed at the center of the filter, and the second filter 42c may be disposed below the first filter 42b and have a predetermined length in the vertical direction of the sump 40. have. The plate filter 42a is provided to surround the first filter 42b and may be provided in a plate shape. In this case, the plate-shaped filter 42a and the second filter 42c may have a mesh structure.

Washing water is sprayed from the spray nozzle and dropped to the bottom of the tub 16 during the washing process. The washing water passes through the plate-shaped filter 42a and again passes through the second filter 42c to flow into the sump 40. . Alternatively, the washing water may be introduced into the sump 40 through the first filter 42b and again through the second filter 42c.

During the flow of the washing water, the dirt contained in the washing water may adhere to the first filter 42b, the second filter 42c, and the plate filter 42a. This can be disturbed.

Referring back to FIG. 7, when the level of washing water for the filter is repeatedly changed as shown in FIG. 7 during the washing process of the filter, the washing water flows from the tub 16 to the sump 40 as opposed to the normal flow in the sump 40. While repeating the reverse flow from the to the tub 16, the filter may be impacted. By the impact, dirt adhering to the filter is removed, so that the filter can be washed.

In washing the filter, the control unit may repeatedly operate and stop the washing pump 60 to repeatedly change the level of washing water for the filter in the sump 40 .

When the control unit repeats the operation and stop of the control motor, the washing pump 60 may also repeat the operation and stop. When the washing pump 60 operates, the washing water moves to the pipe connected to the jet nozzle and the jet nozzle, and thus the level of the washing water at the bottom of the sump 40 and the tub 16 may be lowered.

When the operation of the washing pump 60 is stopped, the pipe connected to the injection nozzle and the washing water filling the injection nozzle fall by gravity and flow back to the bottom of the sump 40 and the tub 16, and accordingly, the sump 40 ) and the level of the washing water at the bottom of the tub 16 may be increased.

In this way, the control unit can wash the filter by repeatedly changing the level of the washing water by controlling the operation of the washing motor. In this case, the operation time and stop time of the washing motor may be appropriately selected, and the number of repetitions of the operation and stop of the washing motor may be appropriately selected.

For example, the control unit may operate the washing motor for several seconds and then repeat the control of stopping the operation for several seconds to wash the filter. However, the operating time and the stopping time of the washing motor are not limited to the above, and the operating time and the stopping time of the washing motor may be set differently.

As the washing water used for washing the filter, it may be appropriate to discharge the washing water containing dirt to the outside of the dishwasher and use the clean washing water newly introduced into the sump 40 .

In the process of washing the filter, the washing water may contain dirt from the filter. Therefore, as the filter washing is performed, the degree of contamination of the washing water may increase. When the contaminated washing water is sprayed through the jetting port of the jet nozzle, there is a fear that the dirt contained in the washing water may block the jetting port.

In addition, when the washing water is injected through the injection hole of the injection nozzle, the speed of changing the level of the washing water at the bottom of the sump 40 and the tub 16 may be slowed or the width of the water level change may be reduced. Therefore, it may be appropriate that the washing water is not injected into the injection port of the injection nozzle in the filter cleaning process, or that the injection amount is small even if it is injected.

Therefore, it is appropriate to set the amount of washing water used in the filter washing process and the operating time of the washing motor so that the washing water is not injected into the jetting port of the jetting nozzle during the filter washing process, or so that the jetting amount is small even if it is jetted.

Meanwhile, the washing of the filter by the washing motor of the control unit may be performed at an appropriate time before the washing of the dishes starts, after the washing of the dishes is finished, or while the washing of the dishes is performed.

Hereinafter, the filter washing process will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 6 .

The control unit may clean the filter by opening the pipes connected to all the injection nozzles (S131). In cleaning the filter, the control unit may control the switching valve 59 to open the pipe connected to the lower spray nozzle 20 , the upper spray nozzle 22 , and the top spray nozzle 24 . The control unit may control the washing motor to repeat the operation and stop of the washing pump 60 to perform filter washing.

In step S131, washing water may be filled in spaces of all pipes connected to the jet nozzles capable of storing washing water and at least some spaces of the jet nozzles, and the normal flow and reverse flow of the washing water may be repeated.

In step S131, by using a relatively high amount of washing water to significantly change the water level of the washing water filter in the washing process, the flow rate of the washing water can be increased to wash the filter.

The controller may heat the washing water stored in the sump 40 (S132). The heating of the washing water may be performed while the washing motor is stopped.

The dishwasher may further include a heating device disposed on the sump 40 . In washing the filter, the controller may operate a heating device to heat the washing water stored in the sump 40 using the heating device.

In this case, the washing water may be stored in the filter to such an extent that all or part of the filter is submerged in the washing water. By means of a heating device, the washing water may be heated to, for example, about 100° C. until it boils. By heating the washing water in which the filter is submerged, the hot washing water weakens the adhesion of the dirt adhered to the filter, so that it comes off the filter. The heating time of the washing water may be appropriately selected.

Step S132 may be performed prior to step S131 and step S132 to be described later.

The control unit may clean the filter by opening the pipe connected to the top spray nozzle 24 (S133). In cleaning the filter, the controller controls the switching valve 59 to close the pipe connected to the lower part spray nozzle 20 and the upper part spray nozzle 22 , and the pipe connected to the top spray nozzle 24 . can be opened The control unit may control the washing motor to repeat the operation and stop of the washing pump 60 to perform filter washing.

In step S133, only the pipe connected to the top injection nozzle 24 disposed at the top of the injection nozzles is opened, and the space of the piping connected to the top injection nozzle 24 and at least a portion of the top injection nozzle 24 is removed. The space may be filled with washing water and the normal flow and reverse flow of the washing water may be repeated.

In step S133, the flow rate of the washing water colliding with the filter may be increased by using the sump 40, the pipe with the largest drop, and the top spray nozzle 24 to increase the flow rate of the washing water when the washing water flows backward. Since step S133 mainly washes the filter using the flow rate of the washing water, a smaller amount of washing water can be used compared to step S131.

Step S133 may be performed prior to steps S131 and S132.

In steps S131, S132, and S133 described above, the same washing water may be used, but different washing water may be used.

In the case of using other washing water, after each step S131, S132, and S133 is completed, the washing water used for filter washing is drained to the outside and fresh clean washing water is introduced into the sump 40 for use.

In the case of using other washing water, for example, steps 131, S132, and S133 may be performed as follows. In step S131, 1.5 liters of washing water may be used, the operating time of the washing motor may be set to 4 seconds, and the washing motor stopping time may be set to 4 seconds.

In step S132, heating may be performed using 1 liter of washing water. In step S133, 0.6 liters of washing water may be used, the operating time of the washing motor may be set to 6 seconds, and the washing motor's stopping time may be set to 4 seconds. However, the filter cleaning process is not limited to each of the above-described numerical values.

After washing the filter, the clogging level of the filter may be measured again (S140). This is to check whether the clogging of the filter has been resolved after the filter has been cleaned. Since the process of measuring the clogging level of the filter in step S140 is the same as that in step S110, a repeated description will be omitted.

Based on the result measured in step S140, it may be determined whether the clogging level of the filter is out of a set range. If the clogging level of the filter is out of the set range, this can be notified to the user. This process will be described in detail below with reference to FIG. 8 .

In an embodiment, since the dishwasher cleans the clogged filter by itself without the user by repeating the operation and stopping of the washing motor, the user's convenience may be improved.

In addition, in an embodiment, by repeating the process of washing using all the jet nozzles and pipes connected thereto in the washing process of the filter, the process of washing by heating washing water, and the process of using some jet nozzles and pipes connected thereto, the filter can increase the cleaning effect.

8 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a dishwasher according to another exemplary embodiment. Hereinafter, descriptions of parts overlapping with those described above may be omitted.

Steps S110, S120, and S130 described above may be performed by the apparatus provided in the dishwasher including the control unit. Specific details of each step are the same as described above.

The dishwasher according to the embodiment may further include an ultraviolet sterilizer disposed on either the sump 40 or the tub 16 . The ultraviolet sterilizer may be provided to be operated and stopped by the control unit. The ultraviolet sterilizer may be disposed at an appropriate position of the sump 40 or the tub 16 so that the irradiated ultraviolet rays are directed toward all or part of the filter.

In the case of washing the filter, the control unit may operate the ultraviolet sterilizer to sterilize by irradiating ultraviolet rays to the filter through the ultraviolet sterilizer (S150). If the filter is clogged, the sanitary condition of the filter with attached dirt may be poor.

Accordingly, in the control method of the dishwasher according to the embodiment, it is possible to increase the hygiene level inside the dishwasher by sterilizing the filter together with washing the filter.

The ultraviolet sterilization (S150) of the filter may be performed at least one of the time before washing the filter, during the washing of the filter, or after the washing of the filter is completed. In addition, it is appropriate to perform step S150 before performing step S140.

After washing the filter, the clogging level of the filter may be measured again (S140). After measuring the clogging level of the filter again, it may be determined again whether the clogging level of the filter is out of a set range (S160). The contents of S160 may be the same as the above-described step S120.

When the clogging level of the filter is out of the set range, it is possible to notify the user of the clogging of the filter (S170). When the clogging level of the filter is out of the set range, the controller may display a text or emit a voice through a display or a speaker provided in the dishwasher to notify the user of the fact that the filter is clogged.

If the filter clogging is not resolved even after automatic washing of the filter, it may be a situation in which the filter clogging cannot be resolved by automatic washing, so it is appropriate for the control unit to notify the user of the filter clogging.

The user who receives the filter clogging may manually wash and clean the filter to remove the clogged filter.

As described above, the present invention has been described with reference to the illustrated drawings, but the present invention is not limited by the embodiments and drawings disclosed in the present specification. It is obvious that variations can be made. In addition, although the effects according to the configuration of the present invention are not explicitly described and described while describing the embodiments of the present invention, it is natural that the effects predictable by the configuration should also be recognized.

16: tub
40: sump
20, 22, 24: spray nozzle
20: lower part spray nozzle
22: upper part spray nozzle
24: top spray nozzle
42: filter
42a: plate filter
42b: first filter
42c: second filter
59: switching valve
60: washing pump

Claims (16)

In the control method of the dishwasher,
The dishwasher is
a tub forming a washing chamber in which a washing object is accommodated;
a sump disposed below the tub and storing washing water;
a filter disposed on the sump and filtering the washing water flowing from the tub;
at least one jet nozzle provided to be rotatable in the washing chamber and for spraying washing water into the washing chamber; and
A washing pump connected to the sump and the injection nozzle and supplying the washing water stored in the sump to the injection nozzle
including,
measuring the clogging level of the filter;
determining whether the clogging level of the filter is out of a set range;
operating the washing pump to wash the filter; and
After washing the filter, measuring the clogging level of the filter again
containing,
How to control the dishwasher. According to claim 1,
Further comprising an ultraviolet sterilizer disposed on any one of the sump or the tub,
When washing the filter, sterilizing by irradiating ultraviolet rays to the filter through the ultraviolet sterilizer
further comprising,
How to control the dishwasher. 3. The method of claim 2,
UV sterilization for the filter,
Performed at least one of the time before washing the filter, during the washing of the filter, or after the washing of the filter is completed,
How to control the dishwasher. According to claim 1,
In measuring the clogging level of the filter,
Measuring the number of times of clogging of the filter that occurs during a cycle in which the dishwasher washes the object to be washed, and performing washing of the filter when the number of times of clogging is out of a set range,
How to control the dishwasher. 5. The method of claim 4,
The number of clogging of the filter is measured during a plurality of cycles in which the dishwasher washes the object to be washed,
A plurality of steps for measuring the number of clogging of the filter are performed at a time interval from each other,
Performing washing of the filter when the number of times of clogging of the measured filter sequentially increases,
How to control the dishwasher. According to claim 1,
In measuring the clogging level of the filter,
Measuring the total of the clogging holding time of the filter that occurs during one cycle of washing the washing object by the dishwasher, and performing washing of the filter when the total of the clogging holding time is out of a set range,
How to control the dishwasher. 7. The method of claim 6,
The total of the clogging holding time of the filter is measured during a plurality of cycles in which the dishwasher washes the object to be washed,
A plurality of steps for measuring the sum of the clogging holding times of the filter are performed at a time interval from each other,
Performing washing of the filter when the average value of the total of the measured clogging holding times of the filters is out of a set range,
How to control the dishwasher. According to claim 1,
In washing the filter,
repeatedly changing the level of washing water for the filter in the sump by repeatedly operating and stopping the washing pump,
How to control the dishwasher. 9. The method of claim 8,
The spray nozzle is
a lower part spray nozzle disposed in the lower part of the washing chamber;
an upper part spray nozzle disposed above the lower part spray nozzle in the washing chamber; and
Top spray nozzle disposed above the upper part spray nozzle in the washing chamber
including,
In washing the filter,
opening a pipe connected to the lower part spray nozzle, the upper part spray nozzle, and the top spray nozzle, and repeating operation and stopping of the washing pump
to do,
How to control the dishwasher. 10. The method of claim 9,
In washing the filter,
Closing a pipe connected to the lower part spray nozzle and the upper part spray nozzle, opening a pipe connected to the top spray nozzle, and repeating the operation and stop of the washing pump
to perform further including
How to control the dishwasher. 11. The method of claim 10,
The dishwasher further includes a heating device disposed on the sump,
In washing the filter,
heating the washing water stored in the sump by using the heating device
to perform further including
How to control the dishwasher. According to claim 1,
After washing the filter and measuring the clogging level of the filter again,
determining again whether the clogging level of the filter is out of a set range; and
When the clogging level of the filter is out of the set range, notifying the user of the clogging of the filter
further comprising
How to control the dishwasher. 6. The method of claim 5,
characterized in that the time interval is more than one day,
How to control the dishwasher. In the control method of the dishwasher,
The dishwasher is
a tub forming a washing chamber in which a washing object is accommodated;
a sump disposed below the tub and storing washing water;
a filter disposed on the sump and filtering the washing water flowing from the tub;
at least one jet nozzle provided to be rotatable in the washing chamber and for spraying washing water into the washing chamber; and
A washing pump connected to the sump and the injection nozzle and supplying the washing water stored in the sump to the injection nozzle
including,
measuring the number of clogging of the filter;
determining whether the number of times of clogging of the filter is out of a set range;
operating the washing pump to wash the filter; and
After washing the filter, measuring the number of clogging of the filter again
including,
The number of clogging of the filter is measured during a plurality of cycles in which the dishwasher washes the object to be washed, and the plurality of cycles of measuring the clogging frequency of the filter are performed at a time interval from each other, and the number of clogging of the filter measured respectively to perform washing of the filter when is sequentially increased,
How to control the dishwasher. 15. The method of claim 14,
sterilizing by irradiating ultraviolet rays to the filter through an ultraviolet sterilizer disposed on the sump; and
heating the washing water stored in the sump by using a heating device disposed in the sump.
further comprising,
How to control the dishwasher. 15. The method of claim 14,
The spray nozzle is
a lower part spray nozzle disposed in the lower part of the washing chamber;
an upper part spray nozzle disposed above the lower part spray nozzle in the washing chamber; and
Top spray nozzle disposed above the upper part spray nozzle in the washing chamber
including,
In washing the filter,
opening a pipe connected to the lower part spray nozzle, the upper part spray nozzle, and the top spray nozzle, and repeating operation and stopping of the washing pump; and
Closing a pipe connected to the lower part spray nozzle and the upper part spray nozzle, opening a pipe connected to the top spray nozzle, and repeating the operation and stop of the washing pump
containing,
How to control the dishwasher.

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