KR20230039221A - A washing machine and method for determining a washing of a tub of the washing machine, and a server and a program therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a washing machine and a method for determining washing of a tub, and a server and a program therefor. For this, the washing machine of the present disclosure may comprise: the tub located at the interior of the washing machine and storing a laundry; a motor which transmits a power to the tub; a communication unit transmitting and receiving a signal or data; and a processor. The processor may obtain administrative data and environment data for a washing operation of the washing machine, determine whether or not to wash the tub, and output guide information for guiding the washing of the tub. Accordingly, a user can recognize a need for washing the tub.

Description

A washing machine and method for determining washing of a tub, and a server and program therefor

The present disclosure relates to a washing machine and method for determining washing of a tub, and a server and program therefor.

In general, a washing machine is a device that cleans laundry through processes such as washing, rinsing, and spin-drying to remove dirt adsorbed on clothes, bedding, etc. (hereinafter, referred to as laundry) using the action of water and detergent. A tub for accommodating wash water is disposed inside the washing machine, and a drum having a plurality of water holes through which laundry is accommodated and water or detergent passes is rotatably installed inside the tub. A motor for generating rotational power of the drum is mounted on one side of the tub.

In the case of washing using such a washing machine, the tub of the washing machine needs to be cleaned periodically because foreign substances (eg, dirty stains, lint, mold, etc.) are adsorbed in the tub as the number of times the laundry is washed increases.

However, in the prior art, since the need for washing the tub is indicated only once a month or, for example, once every 30 times, the tub of the washing machine is not always kept clean.

Also, since a conventional washing machine washes laundry through a contaminated tub, washing performance may be degraded or contamination may remain in the laundry even after washing.

Accordingly, there is a need to keep the tub of the washing machine in a clean state at all times and improve the washing performance of the washing machine by adaptively notifying the washing of the tub based on the usage pattern of the washing machine and/or weather information.

In the prior art, the washing machine tub was not always kept clean because the washing machine tub was notified only once a month or according to a fixed number of washing cycles.

Also, in the prior art, since laundry is washed through a contaminated tub, washing performance may be deteriorated or contamination may remain in the laundry even after washing.

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a washing machine and method capable of keeping the tub of the washing machine clean at all times by adaptively notifying the user of the need to clean the tub based on the usage pattern and/or environmental data of the washing machine.

In addition, the present disclosure is to provide a washing machine and method for automatically washing a tub of a washing machine based on usage patterns and/or environmental data of the washing machine.

In addition, the present disclosure is to provide a washing machine and a method capable of informing the user of the necessity of washing the tub by transmitting guide information on the necessity of washing the tub to the user's portable terminal when the user is not adjacent to the washing machine.

In addition, the present disclosure provides a washing machine and a method for transmitting stroke data based on the stroke of the washing machine to a server and receiving and outputting guide information on washing of a tub from the server.

In addition, the present disclosure provides a server and method for transmitting guide information on the necessity of washing a tub of a washing machine to a washing machine or a portable terminal through administrative data received from the washing machine and environmental data based on a region where the washing machine is located.

The objects of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned objects, and other objects and advantages of the present disclosure not mentioned above can be understood by the following description and will be more clearly understood by the embodiments of the present disclosure. Further, it will be readily apparent that the objects and advantages of the present disclosure may be realized by means of the instrumentalities and combinations indicated in the claims.

In order to achieve this object, the washing machine of the present disclosure may obtain administrative data and environment data on the washing process of the washing machine.

In addition, the washing machine of the present disclosure may determine whether to wash the tub based on the administrative data and environmental data of the washing machine, and output guide information for guiding washing.

In addition, the washing machine according to the present disclosure may transmit administrative data of the washing machine to the server and receive and output guidance information about washing the tub from the server.

In addition, the washing machine or server of the present disclosure performs laundry in the tub of the washing machine based on at least one of the washing course, the number of washings, the number of spin-drying, the amount of foam generated for the washing course, the tub washing cycle, and the spin-drying RPM (Revolutions Per Minute). can decide whether

In addition, the washing machine or server of the present disclosure may determine whether to wash the tub of the washing machine based on at least one of temperature, humidity, season, yellow dust concentration, fine dust concentration, and location information.

To this end, the washing machine of the present disclosure may include a tub located inside the washing machine and accommodating laundry, a motor that transmits power to the tub, a communication unit that transmits and receives signals or data, and a processor.

In addition, the washing machine according to the present disclosure may obtain administrative data and environmental data for a washing operation of the washing machine, determine whether or not to wash the tub, and output guide information for guiding the washing of the tub.

In addition, the washing machine of the present disclosure may generate stroke data including information on at least one of a washing course, the number of washings, the number of spin-drying, the amount of foam generated for the washing course, the tub washing cycle, and spin-drying RPM (Revolutions Per Minute). can

In addition, the washing machine according to the present disclosure controls the motor to clean the tub when at least one of the first standard number of washing cycles or more, the second standard number of spin cycles or more, and the first standard value or more of the amount of foam generation is satisfied for each washing course. can decide to clean it.

In addition, the washing machine of the present disclosure may set a tub-cleaning cycle based on the administration data, and automatically clean the tub based on the tub-washing cycle.

Also, the washing machine according to the present disclosure may variably adjust a tub washing cycle based on environmental data, and may set different tub washing cycles depending on the season.

Also, the washing machine according to the present disclosure may set different cycles for washing the tub according to the humidity of the region where the washing machine is located.

In addition, the washing machine of the present disclosure may output guide information including information suggesting washing of the tub through at least one of a display unit and a speaker.

Also, the washing machine of the present disclosure may automatically clean the tub when a command to wash the tub is input based on the guidance information.

In addition, when the washing machine of the present disclosure is identified as being capable of communication with the portable terminal, it may transmit guide information to the portable terminal.

In addition, the server of the present disclosure may obtain administrative data and environment data for a washing operation of the washing machine, determine whether or not to wash the tub of the washing machine, and generate guide information for guiding washing of the tub.

The server of the present disclosure may transmit guide information for guiding cleaning of the tub of the washing machine to the washing machine or the portable terminal.

The washing machine of the present disclosure determines whether to wash the tub based on the administrative data and environmental data of the washing machine, and outputs guide information for guiding washing, so that the user can recognize the need for washing the tub.

In addition, the washing machine of the present disclosure transmits administrative data of the washing machine to the server and receives and outputs guidance information on tub washing from the server, so that a washing machine with a slow processing speed or without a tub washing notification function actively needs to wash the tub. can be provided to the user.

In addition, the present disclosure determines whether to wash the tub of the washing machine based on at least one of the washing course, the number of washings, the number of spin-drying, the amount of foam generated for the washing course, the tub washing cycle, and the spin-drying RPM, thereby determining the usage pattern of the washing machine. According to this, the tub can be washed adaptively.

In addition, the present disclosure determines whether to wash the tub of the washing machine based on at least one of temperature, humidity, season, concentration of yellow dust, concentration of fine dust, and location information, thereby adaptively cleaning the tub of the washing machine according to characteristics of the region where the washing machine is located. can be washed.

In addition, according to the present disclosure, the user can recognize the necessity of washing the tub by obtaining administrative data and environmental data for the washing process of the washing machine, determining whether or not to clean the tub, and outputting guide information for guiding the washing of the tub. , washing performance can be improved by washing the tub through this.

In addition, the present disclosure generates administrative data including information on at least one of the washing course, the number of washings, the number of spin-drying, the amount of foam generated for the washing course, the tub washing cycle, and the spin-drying RPM (Revolutions Per Minute), thereby generating a washing machine, You can vary the tub cleaning cycle based on your usage patterns.

In addition, the washing machine according to the present disclosure controls the motor to clean the tub when at least one of the first standard number of washing cycles or more, the second standard number of spin cycles or more, and the first standard value or more of the amount of foam generation is satisfied for each washing course. By deciding to wash the washing machine, the washing machine can automatically clean the tub.

In addition, the washing machine of the present disclosure may automatically clean the tub by setting a cycle for washing the tub based on the administrative data.

In addition, the washing machine of the present disclosure can adaptively wash the tub according to regional characteristics by variably adjusting the tub washing cycle based on environmental data and setting the tub washing cycle differently according to the season. there is.

Also, the washing machine of the present disclosure may output guide information including information suggesting tub washing through at least one of a display unit and a speaker, so that the user recognizes the necessity of washing the tub.

In addition, the washing machine of the present disclosure automatically cleans the tub when a command for washing the tub is input based on the guide information, so that the user can more conveniently manage the washing machine.

In addition, when the washing machine according to the present disclosure is identified as capable of communication with the portable terminal, guide information is transmitted to the portable terminal, so that a remote user can recognize the necessity of washing the tub.

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

1 is a perspective view illustrating an exterior of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
2 is an AA′ cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
3 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a state in which foreign substances are adsorbed to the tub of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
4 is a block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
5 is a flowchart illustrating an operating process of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
6 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a state in which the washing machine displays guide information indicating tub washing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
7 is an exemplary diagram in which a portable terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure displays guide information about cleaning a tub of a washing machine.
8 is a block diagram of a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
9 is a flowchart illustrating a process in which a server determines whether to wash a tub of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
10 is an exemplary view showing the number of washing cycles according to the degree of contamination of a tub based on a drum washing machine having a small capacity according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
11 is an exemplary view showing the number of washing cycles according to the degree of contamination of a tub based on a large-capacity drum washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The foregoing objects, features and advantages will be described later in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and accordingly, those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs will be able to easily implement the technical spirit of the present disclosure. In describing the present disclosure, if it is determined that a detailed description of known technologies related to the present disclosure may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present disclosure, detailed descriptions will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present disclosure 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.

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

Singular expressions used herein include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "consisting of" or "comprising" should not be construed as necessarily including all of the various components or steps described in the specification, and some of the components or some of the steps It should be construed that it may not be included, or may further include additional components or steps.

Throughout the specification, when "A and/or B" is used, this means A, B or A and B unless otherwise specified, and when used as "C to D", this means unless otherwise specified Unless otherwise specified, means greater than or equal to C and less than or equal to D

Hereinafter, a washing machine to which hot water is supplied and a server for identifying hot water supply and a program for the washing machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

1 is a perspective view illustrating an exterior of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 2 is an AA' cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

1 and 2, a washing machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cabinet 110 forming an exterior and a drum rotatably installed inside the cabinet 110 and into which laundry is put. 130, a lifter 231 installed on the inner surface of the drum 130 to lift the laundry so that the laundry falls by gravity from a certain height, and a lifter 231 installed on the rear of the drum 20 to drop the laundry by gravity. It may include a motor 30 that generates rotational power of.

According to an embodiment, the cabinet 110 includes an upper frame 111a constituting the upper surface of the cabinet, a front frame 111b constituting the front surface of the cabinet, a rear frame 111c constituting the rear surface of the cabinet, and the front frame 111b. ) and the rear frame 111c, and is composed of a side frame (not shown) forming the side and bottom of the cabinet, and a bottom frame 111d.

According to one embodiment, a front cover 122 with a laundry entrance 121 formed in the center is mounted on the front of the cabinet 110 . In addition, the front cabinet 111b includes a laundry entrance 121 formed by being opened in the center.

According to one embodiment, the front cover 122 is mounted on the front cabinet 111b. In addition, a door 130 for opening and closing the laundry entrance 121 may be rotatably installed on the front cover 122 . The laundry entrance 121 is opened and closed by a door 130 installed on the front frame of the cabinet 110 . In addition, a control panel 112 may be provided at an upper end of the front cabinet 111b.

According to one embodiment, the control panel 112 may include a plurality of buttons or knobs for manipulating the operation of the washing machine 100, and a display unit 114 for displaying the operating state of the washing machine 100. ) may be included.

An input unit 115 including a button and a touch sensor for receiving an input from a user may be disposed on one side of the display unit 114 to control the operation of the washing machine 100 .

According to one embodiment, the input unit 115 may include the control panel 112 and the display unit 114 .

According to one embodiment, a detergent drawer 113 may be further provided at the top of the front cabinet 111b. The detergent drawer 113 is provided on the side of the control panel 112, and a part where detergent is introduced and stored and a part exposed to the front are formed integrally, or a part forming at least a part of the front is a separate part. It can be formed and formed by bonding.

In addition, a service cover 123 may be further provided at the lower end of the front cabinet 111b. The service cover 123 may be opened while the washing machine 100 is stopped to remove residual water present in the washing machine 100 .

According to one embodiment, the cabinet 110 forms a space inside, and a device for washing laundry, such as a motor 220 and a tub 230 accommodating the drum 130, is directly installed in the space.

According to one embodiment, the motor 220 rotates the driving shaft 221 by the current applied from the power supply. The driving shaft 221 passes through the tub 230 and is fixed to the rear surface of the drum 130 to rotate the drum 130 . And, the drum 130 has a shape opened to the other side to which the driving shaft 221 is fixed, that is, to the door 130 side. In addition, the tub 230 surrounds the drum 130, and airtightness is maintained so that the washing water collected in the tub 230 does not leak.

According to one embodiment, the tub 230 maintains airtightness because wash water must be collected during washing. Here, the drum 130 is rotatably installed inside the tub 230 . In addition, a plurality of through-holes are formed in the drum 130, and the through-holes supply water to a certain portion of the drum 130 when wash water is supplied to the inside of the tub 230 from the water supply pipes 261 and 262. it is for In addition, wash water can be smoothly drained from the rotating drum 130 during spin-drying after the washing cycle by means of the through hole.

According to one embodiment, the detergent drawer 113 is coupled to a water supply pipe 261 through which cold water is supplied and a water supply pipe 262 through which hot water is supplied, and cold water and hot water are introduced from the water supply pipe 51 to provide detergent. and water mixed with the fabric softener to be supplied to the tub 230 . A discharge pipe 210 capable of draining supplied water may be connected to a lower side of the tub 230 .

In addition, a detergent box 240 is disposed inside the detergent drawer 113, and detergents such as laundry detergent, fabric softener, or bleach are accommodated in the detergent box 240. It is preferable that the detergent box 240 is retractably provided on the front side of the front cabinet 111b. When washing water is supplied, the detergent in the detergent box 240 is mixed with the washing water and flows into the tub 230 .

According to an embodiment, a vibration measuring device may be provided on an outer surface of the tub 230 . The vibration measuring device is for measuring the vibration of the tub 230 generated during operation of the washing machine 100, and an acceleration sensor or an optical sensor generally used for measuring vibration may be used.

3 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a state in which foreign substances are adsorbed to the tub of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 3 , foreign substances 310 and 320 are adsorbed to the tub 230 as a washing course, the number of washings, and the number of spin-drying progresses based on various cycles of a washing machine. These foreign substances 310 and 320 are adsorbed into the washing machine as the number of washing cycles increases, and due to these foreign substances 310 and 320, washing performance may deteriorate or laundry may be contaminated even after washing. These foreign substances 310 and 320 provide an environment in which bacteria and mold can grow, and are mainly adsorbed to the lower portion and outer surface of the tub 230 .

4 is a block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 4 , a washing machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a communication unit 410, an input unit 115, a display unit 114, a speaker 420, a memory 430, a tub 230, and a motor. 220, and a processor 440.

The configuration of the washing machine 100 shown in FIG. 4 is according to an embodiment, and components of the washing machine 100 are not limited to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, and some components are added or changed as needed. or can be deleted. Also, components shown in FIG. 4 may be disposed on one side of the washing machine 100.

According to an embodiment, the communication unit 410 may perform wired or wireless communication with at least one component included in the washing machine 100 . The communication unit 410 may transmit/receive at least one signal or information with a router (not shown) or a server (eg, the LG ThinQ server) in the home through wired or wireless communication. At least one circuit may be included.

According to an embodiment, the communication unit 410 is based on short-range communication (eg, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), or Beacon) to at least one other home appliance in the home or an external device. (eg, server 800, a mobile terminal (not shown)) and wireless communication may be performed.

According to an embodiment, the communication unit 410 may transmit administrative data of the washing machine 100 to an external device (eg, the server 800 or a portable terminal (not shown)) under the control of the processor 440 . Also, the communication unit 410 may receive guidance information from an external device (eg, the server 800 or a portable terminal (not shown)). In addition, the communication unit 410 may transfer the guide information to the processor 440 or output the information through the display unit 114 or the speaker 420 under the control of the processor 440 .

According to one embodiment, the input unit 115 may include a control panel 112 and a display unit 114 . The control panel 112 is disposed on top of the front cabinet 111b and may include a plurality of buttons or knobs for manipulating the operation of the washing machine 100 . Also, the control panel 112 may include a display unit 114 for displaying an operating state of the washing machine 100 . In addition, the input unit 115 may include a button 116 receiving an input from a user and a touch sensor to control the operation of the washing machine 100 .

According to one embodiment, the display unit 114 may display the operation of the washing machine 100. The display unit 114 may be disposed outside the washing machine 100, and may include a touch screen that receives a touch or hovering input and displays data.

According to an embodiment, the display unit 114 may display various information about the operation of the washing machine 100 (eg, a completed operation, an operation currently in progress, an operation to be performed, an operation end time, operation status, functions, etc.) can The display unit 114 may display various types of information (eg, multimedia data or text data). The display unit 114 may include a control circuit for controlling a display that visually provides information to a user.

According to an embodiment, the display unit 114 may display guide information received from the server 800 (or a portable terminal (not shown)). The guide information may include guide information for guiding cleaning of the tub 230 (eg, text or image notifying that foreign substances are adsorbed on the tub 230).

According to an embodiment, the speaker 420 may output various audio signals (eg, operation start notification, operation end notification, warning sound, event occurrence sound, etc.) for the operation of the washing machine 100 . The speaker 420 may output a signal obtained by converting text into a voice signal by the processor 440 . The speaker 420 may output guidance information received from the server 800 (or a portable terminal (not shown)) as a voice. The guidance information may include text for guiding cleaning of the tub 230.

According to one embodiment, the memory 430 may include a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory. For example, the memory 430 may store information, data, programs, etc. necessary for the operation of the washing machine 100 . The memory 430 may store various platforms. The memory 430 may be, for example, a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, or a card type memory (eg SD or XD). memory, etc.), RAM (RAM), and ROM (EEPROM, etc.) may include at least one type of storage medium.

According to an embodiment, the memory 430 stores various data acquired or used by at least one component of the washing machine 100 (eg, software, applications, programs, control logic, control signals, acquired through an input/output unit). information (eg, voice message, etc.) and related commands may be stored.

According to an embodiment, the memory 430 may store administration data acquired by the processor 440 . In addition, the memory 430 may store guide information received from the server 800, and such stored guide information may be deleted after a certain period of time.

According to one embodiment, the tub 230 is disposed inside the cabinet 110, and the motor 220 and the drum 130 may be accommodated therein.

According to an embodiment, the motor 220 may be physically coupled to the tub 230 to transmit power to the drum 130 within the tub 230 . Also, the drum 130 may perform processes of washing, rinsing, and spin-drying laundry by rotating by the motor 220 .

According to an embodiment, the processor 440 may drive software to control at least one component connected to the processor 440 based on wired communication or wireless communication. Also, the processor 440 may perform various data processing and calculations based on the wired communication or the wireless communication.

According to an embodiment, the processor 440 may perform overall operations of the communication unit 410, the input unit 115, the display unit 114, the speaker 420, the memory 430, the tub 230, and the motor 220. can control. The processor 440 may have an artificial intelligence algorithm embedded therein. Alternatively, the artificial intelligence algorithm may be implemented by the processor 440 . The artificial intelligence is a program that imitates a human brain neural network and can support a deep learning algorithm that analyzes, recognizes, infers, and judges various data by itself.

5 is a flowchart illustrating an operating process of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 6 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a state in which the washing machine displays guide information indicating tub washing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 7 is an exemplary diagram in which a portable terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure displays guide information about cleaning a tub of a washing machine.

Hereinafter, an operation process of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5, 6, and 7.

According to an embodiment, when the washing machine 100 starts to run, the processor 440 may obtain stroke data (S510). When a command for controlling the operation of the washing machine 100 is received from the user through the input unit 115, the processor 440 may identify that the washing machine 100 starts to run and obtain administration data.

According to an embodiment, the processor 440 determines the course of the washing machine 100 (eg, standard course, wool course, dirty course, steam option, baby course) based on a command input from the user through the input unit 115. Information on clothes course, hygiene course, antibacterial hot water course, blanket washing course, etc.) and information on operation logic (e.g., spin RPM (Revolutions Per Minute), level of foam generation, number and time of washing, number and time of rinsing, Administrative data including washing temperature, rinsing temperature, steam temperature, washing temperature and rinsing temperature set by a user, etc.) may be acquired.

In addition, the processor 440 may acquire the time set for each stroke and the time for performing the planet through the timer 441.

The administrative data may include various information about the operation of the washing machine 100 (eg, information about the type of washing machine 100, capacity of the washing machine 100, and functions applied to the washing machine 100).

According to one embodiment, the processor 440 may obtain environmental data (S512). The processor 440 periodically (eg, hourly, daily, weekly, etc.) receives environmental data (eg, location information of the area where the washing machine 100 is located, temperature) from a weather server (not shown) or a portable terminal (not shown). , information on at least one of humidity, season, concentration of yellow dust, and concentration of fine dust) may be obtained. Such environmental data may be used for cleaning the tub 230 .

According to an embodiment, the processor 440 may determine whether to wash the tub of the washing machine based on the obtained administrative data and environment data (S514). The processor 440 determines the number of times of washing for each washing course of the washing machine 100 (eg, standard course, wool course, dirty course, steam option course, baby clothes course, hygiene course, antibacterial hot water course, duvet washing course, etc.) It may be identified whether the number of dehydration exceeds the first reference number (eg, 30 times) or the number of dehydration exceeds the second reference number (eg, 50 times). For example, if it is identified that the number of washing exceeds a first reference number (eg, 30 times) or the number of spin-drying exceeds a second reference number (eg, 50 times), the processor 440 determines the washing machine (eg, 50 times). It may be determined that the tub 230 of 100 should be cleaned.

Alternatively, the processor 440 may be configured to operate the motor when the number of times that the amount of foam generation (or surfactant concentration) by washing exceeds the first reference value (eg, 0.3%) exceeds the third reference number (eg, 10 times). 220 may be controlled to determine that the tub 230 needs to be cleaned.

Alternatively, the processor 440 controls the motor 220 when the number of fine dust concentrations equal to or greater than the second reference value (eg, 150 μg/m ³ ) exceeds the fourth reference number (eg, 10 times). Thus, it may be determined that the tub 230 needs to be cleaned.

Alternatively, the processor 440 controls the motor 220 when the number of times the concentration of yellow sand is equal to or greater than the third reference value (eg, 800 μg/m ³ ) exceeds the fifth reference number (eg, 10 times). It may be determined that the tub 230 needs to be cleaned.

Alternatively, the processor 440 may determine whether to wash the tub 230 based on the spin-drying RPM of the washing machine 100 . For example, when the number of dehydration RPM of the washing machine 100 is 400 RPM or less exceeds the sixth reference number (eg, 10 times), the processor 440 controls the motor 220 to remove the tub 230. can be determined to be cleaned.

According to an embodiment, the processor 440 may set the washing cycle of the tub 230 based on the administration data. For example, the processor 440 may set a first standard number of washing times (eg, 30 times) or more, a second reference number of spin times (eg, 50 times) or more, and a first reference value of a foam generation amount (eg, 50 times). : 0.3%), the tub 230 may be washed by controlling the motor 220 . Alternatively, the processor 440 may identify a period for which the above conditions are satisfied, and then wash the tub 230 according to the identified period. In this way, the processor 440 may determine that the tub 230 should be cleaned based on the cleaning cycle of the tub 230 .

According to an embodiment, the processor 440 may set a shorter cleaning cycle of the tub 230 in summer (eg, from June to August) than in winter (eg, from December to February). . For example, the processor 440 may differently set the washing cycle of the tub 230 according to the season.

According to an embodiment, the processor 440 may set the washing cycle of the tub 230 to an area below a predetermined value (eg, 60%) when the humidity of an area where the washing machine is located is equal to or higher than a predetermined value (eg, 60%). Can be set shorter. For example, the processor 440 may differently set a cycle for washing the tub 230 according to local humidity.

Alternatively, the processor 440 may adjust the washing cycle shorter when the washing machine 100 is located on the seashore than when it is not located on the seashore.

According to an embodiment, when it is determined that the tub is to be cleaned, the processor 440 may output guide information for inducing the tub to be cleaned (S516 and S518). The processor 440 may display guide information through the display unit 114 . Alternatively, the processor 440 may convert text included in the guidance information into a voice signal and output the converted voice signal through the speaker 420 . For example, the guide information may include text and/or images suggesting cleaning of the tub 230 .

According to an embodiment, the processor 440 may identify whether communication with the portable terminal is possible (S520). The processor 440 may identify whether communication with the communication unit 810 of the server 800 is possible through the communication unit 410 . The processor 440 may identify whether a communication channel is established with the communication unit 810 of the server 800 and/or a portable terminal (not shown) through a router (not shown) in the home.

According to an embodiment, the processor 440 may transmit guidance information for inducing cleaning of the tub to the portable terminal (S522). When it is determined that communication with the mobile terminal (not shown) is possible, the processor 440 may transmit guide information for inducing washing of the tub to the mobile terminal (not shown) through the communication unit 410 . And, the portable terminal may display the guidance information.

Referring to FIG. 6 , the washing machine 100 may display guide information. The guide information 620 may include information for guiding washing of the tub 230 since foreign substances are adsorbed to the tub 230 of the washing machine 100 . In addition, the guide information 620 may include a message 621 guiding to clean the tub 230, an example image 622 in which foreign substances are attached to the tub, and an image 623 in which foreign substances are not attached to the tub. there is.

The guide information 620 may include text or images, and may be output through at least one of the display unit 114 and the speaker 420 . Also, the user 611 may input a command to wash the tub 230 to the washing machine 100 based on the displayed guide information.

In addition, the washing machine 100 may transmit guide information to the portable terminal of the user 611, and the portable terminal may display the guide information received from the washing machine 100 (or the server 800).

Referring to FIG. 7 , guidance information 710 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a diagnosis date 711 of the washing machine 100, an error code 712 of the washing machine 100, and a guidance guide of the washing machine 100. 713 , and image 714 . The guide guide 713 may include text suggesting cleaning of the tub 230 since a lot of contaminants are adsorbed to the tub 230 . This guidance information 710 may be displayed on the display unit 114 of the washing machine 100 or displayed through the portable terminal of the user 611 . In order to display the guidance information 710 on the portable terminal, the washing machine 100 may store an identifier (eg, phone number) for the portable terminal.

The image 714 may include an exemplary image of the tub before cleaning and an exemplary image after cleaning. The guidance information 710 may further include a menu 715 for starting cleaning of the tub 230 and an end menu 716 .

For example, when the user 611 selects the wash start menu 715 to wash the tub 230, the processor 440 of the washing machine 100 controls the motor 220 to clean the tub 230. ) can start washing. Alternatively, when washing of the tub 230 is determined, the processor 440 may automatically wash the tub 230 after receiving hot water through the water supply pipe 262 .

Alternatively, when the guide information 710 is displayed on the portable terminal, the portable terminal may transmit commands to start washing the tub 230 to the washing machine 100 .

8 is a block diagram of a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 8 , a server 800 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a communication unit 810, a memory 820, and a processor 830.

The configuration of the server 800 shown in FIG. 8 is according to an embodiment, and components of the server 800 are not limited to the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, and some components are added or changed as necessary. or can be deleted.

According to an embodiment, the communication unit 810 may perform wired or wireless communication with the washing machine 100 (or a router (not shown) connected to the washing machine 100 wirelessly or wired). Alternatively, the communication unit 810 may perform wireless communication with a portable terminal. The communication unit 810 may include at least one circuit capable of transmitting and receiving at least one signal or information with a router (not shown) in a home or a portable terminal through wired or wireless communication.

According to an embodiment, the communication unit 810 may receive administration data about the washing machine 100 from the washing machine 100 or a portable terminal. The communication unit 810 periodically (eg, hourly, daily, weekly, etc.) receives environmental data (eg, location information of the area where the washing machine 100 is located, temperature) from a weather server (not shown) or a portable terminal (not shown). , information on at least one of humidity, season, concentration of yellow dust, and concentration of fine dust) may be obtained. Such environmental data may be used for cleaning the tub 230 .

According to an embodiment, the memory 820 may store the administration data 821 under the control of the processor 830 . Also, the memory 820 may store the environment data 822 under the control of the processor 830 . For example, the memory 820 may store administrative data from a plurality of washing machines (or portable terminals of users using each of the plurality of washing machines) and environment data of a region where each washing machine is located. In this way, the processor 830 (eg, the ThinQ 831) may identify whether or not the tub is cleaned and the cleaning cycle of the tub based on the usage pattern of the corresponding washing machine through a plurality of stored administrative data and a plurality of environmental data. .

According to an embodiment, the processor 830 may drive software to control at least one component connected to the processor 830 based on wired communication or wireless communication. Also, the processor 830 may perform various data processing and calculations based on the wired communication or the wireless communication.

According to one embodiment, the processor 830 may have an artificial intelligence algorithm embedded therein. Alternatively, the artificial intelligence algorithm may be implemented by the processor 830. The artificial intelligence is a program that imitates a human brain neural network and can support a deep learning algorithm that analyzes, recognizes, infers, and judges various data by itself.

9 is a flowchart illustrating a process in which a server determines whether to wash a tub of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 10 is an exemplary view showing the number of washing cycles according to the degree of contamination of a tub based on a drum washing machine having a small capacity according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 11 is an exemplary view showing the number of washing cycles according to the degree of contamination of a tub based on a large-capacity drum washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11 , a process in which the server determines whether to wash the tub of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail.

According to an embodiment, the server 800 (eg, the processor 830) may identify whether information on the washing machine is received (S910). The server 800 may receive administration data from the washing machine 100 (or a portable terminal of a user who owns the washing machine 100). The server 800 may receive information about a plurality of washing machines other than the washing machine 100 (eg, administration data of each of the plurality of washing machines).

According to an embodiment, the administrative data is for the course of the washing machine 100 (eg, standard course, wool course, dirty course, steam option, baby clothes course, sanitation course, antibacterial hot water course, duvet washing course, etc.) information, and information on operation logic (e.g., spin RPM, level of foam generation, number and time of washing, number and time of rinsing, washing temperature, rinsing temperature, steam temperature, washing temperature set by the user, rinsing temperature, etc.) It may include administrative data including

According to an embodiment, the server 800 (eg, the processor 830) may store administrative data of the washing machine (S912). The server 800 (eg, the processor 830) may store administration data received from the washing machine 100 through the communication unit 810 in the memory 820. The server 800 (eg, the processor 830) classifies the administrative data received from each of the plurality of washing machines based on the identifier of each washing machine (or the identifier (eg, phone number) of the user portable terminal) and stores the memory (eg, the phone number). 820).

According to an embodiment, the server 800 (eg, the processor 830) may acquire environmental data about the washing machine (S914). The server 800 (eg, the processor 830) may obtain environmental data of an area where the washing machine 100 is located from a weather server (not shown) or a portable terminal (not shown). The environmental data may include information on at least one of location information, temperature, humidity, season, concentration of yellow dust, and concentration of fine dust of an area where the washing machine 100 is located. The environmental data may be used for washing the tub 230 of the washing machine 100 .

According to an embodiment, the processor 830 may determine whether to wash the tub of the washing machine 100 based on the administrative data and environmental data of the washing machine 100 (S916). The processor 830 determines the number of times of washing for each washing course of the washing machine 100 (eg, standard course, wool course, dirty course, steam option course, baby clothes course, hygiene course, antibacterial hot water course, duvet washing course, etc.) It is possible to identify whether the first standard number of times (eg, 30 times) is exceeded or whether the number of dehydration exceeds a second standard number of times (eg, 50 times).

In addition, when the processor 830 identifies that the number of washing exceeds the first reference number (eg, 30 times) or the number of spin-drying exceeds the second reference number (eg, 50 times), the washing machine 100 It may be determined that the tub 230 of the should be cleaned.

Alternatively, the processor 830 may operate the motor when the number of times that the amount of foam generation (or surfactant concentration) by washing exceeds the first reference value (eg, 0.3%) exceeds the third reference number (eg, 10 times). It may be determined that the tub 230 should be washed by rotating the drum 130 by controlling the 220 .

Alternatively, the processor 830 controls the motor 220 when the number of fine dust concentrations equal to or greater than the second reference value (eg, 150 μg/m ³ ) exceeds the fourth reference number (eg, 10 times). Thus, it may be determined that the tub 230 needs to be cleaned.

Alternatively, the processor 830 controls the motor 220 when the number of times the concentration of yellow sand is equal to or greater than the third reference value (eg, 800 μg/m ³ ) exceeds the fifth reference number (eg, 10 times). It may be determined that the tub 230 needs to be cleaned.

According to an embodiment, the processor 830 may set or adjust the washing cycle of the tub 230 based on at least some of administrative data and environmental data. For example, the processor 830 may set a first standard number of washing times (eg, 30 times) or more, a second reference number of spin times (eg, 50 times) or more, and a first reference value of a foam generation amount (eg, 50 times). : 0.3%), it may be determined that the tub 230 of the washing machine 100 needs to be washed.

Alternatively, the processor 830 performs the above conditions (ie, the first standard number of washing times (eg, 30 times) or more, the second standard number of spin times (eg, 50 times) or more, and the first standard number of foam generation)). After identifying a period in which the value (eg, 0.3% or more) is satisfied, the tub 230 may be periodically cleaned. In this way, the processor 830 may determine that the tub 230 should be cleaned based on the cleaning cycle of the tub 230 .

According to an embodiment, the processor 830 may set a cycle for cleaning the tub 230 shorter in summer (eg, from June to August) than in winter (eg, from December to February). . For example, the processor 830 may differently set the washing cycle of the tub 230 according to the season.

According to an embodiment, the processor 830 may set the washing cycle of the tub 230 to an area below a predetermined value (eg, 60%) when the humidity of an area where the washing machine is located is equal to or higher than a predetermined value (eg, 60%). Can be set shorter. For example, the processor 830 may differently set a cycle for washing the tub 230 according to local humidity.

According to an embodiment, the processor 830 may learn a usage pattern of the washing machine based on a plurality of stroke data received from the washing machine for a predetermined period of time. The processor 830 may receive a plurality of stroke data received from the washing machine 100 for a certain period of time (eg, one month). The predetermined period can be variably adjusted.

Referring to FIG. 10 , in the case of a drum washing machine having a small capacity (eg, a 17 kg drum washing machine), the degree of contamination due to tub non-washing increases mainly between October and March. Also, as the number of washing machines increases, the number of washing machines contaminated with the tub also increases. For example, the total number of washing machines (1010) increases from the second quarter of 2019 (April to June) to the first quarter of 2020 (January to March), in which case the number of washing machines with contaminated tubs It can be seen that (1020) also increases.

Referring to FIG. 11 , in the case of a large-capacity drum washing machine (eg, a 23 kg drum washing machine), contamination due to tub non-cleaning increases mainly between October and March. Also, as the number of washing machines increases, the number of washing machines contaminated with the tub also increases. For example, the total number of washing machines 1110 increases from the first quarter of 2019 (between January and March) to the first quarter of 2020 (January to March), and in this case, the number of washing machines with contaminated tubs It can be seen that (1120) also increases.

According to an embodiment, when it is determined that the tub of the washing machine is to be washed, the processor 830 may generate guide information for inducing the washing of the tub (S918 and S920). Since foreign substances are adsorbed to the tub 230 of the washing machine 100, the guide information may include information for guiding washing of the tub 230. In addition, the guide information may include a message guiding to clean the tub 230, an example image in which foreign substances are attached to the tub, and an image in which foreign substances are not attached to the tub.

According to an embodiment, the processor 830 may transmit the generated guide information to at least one of a washing machine and a portable terminal (S922). When it is determined that communication with the washing machine 100 is possible, the processor 830 may transmit guide information for inducing washing of the tub to the washing machine 100 through the communication unit 810 . Also, the washing machine 100 may output guide information received from the server 800 .

Alternatively, if it is determined that communication with the portable terminal associated with the washing machine 100 is possible, the processor 830 transmits guide information for inducing washing of the tub to the portable terminal (not shown) through the communication unit 810. may be And, the mobile terminal (not shown) may output the guide information received from the server 800 .

Temperature values, reference values, threshold values, and the like described in the present disclosure are described for ease of explanation, and it is obvious that various values may be applied in the present disclosure without being limited to these numerical values.

Each step in each of the flowcharts described above may be operated regardless of the order shown, or may be performed simultaneously. In addition, at least one component of the present disclosure and at least one operation performed by the at least one component may be implemented by hardware and/or software.

As described above, the present disclosure has been described with reference to the illustrated drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited by the embodiments and drawings disclosed herein, and various modifications are made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of the present disclosure. It is obvious that variations can be made. In addition, even if the operation and effect according to the configuration of the present disclosure have not been explicitly described and described while describing the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is natural that the predictable effect of the configuration should also be recognized.

100: washing machine 114: display unit
115: input unit 220: motor
230: tub 250: temperature sensor
410: communication unit 420: speaker
430: memory 440: processor

Claims (20)

in the washing machine,
a tub located inside the washing machine and accommodating laundry;
a motor that transmits power to the tub;
communications department; and
It includes a processor electrically connected to the motor and the communication unit,
the processor,
Obtaining administration data on a washing cycle of the washing machine;
Obtaining environmental data through the communication unit,
Determine whether to clean the tub based on the obtained administrative data and environmental data;
A washing machine configured to output guide information for guiding washing of the tub when it is determined to wash the tub.
According to claim 1,
The washing machine data includes information on at least one of a washing course, the number of washings, the number of spin-drying, an amount of foam generated for the washing course, a tub washing cycle, and a spin-drying RPM (Revolutions Per Minute).
According to claim 1,
The environmental data includes information on at least one of temperature, humidity, season, yellow dust concentration, fine dust concentration, and location information.
According to claim 2,
the processor,
When at least one of the first standard number of washing times or more, the second reference number of spin times or more, and the first reference value or more of the amount of foam generation is satisfied for each washing course, the motor is controlled to wash the tub. set washing machine.
According to claim 1,
the processor,
A washing machine configured to set a cycle for washing the tub based on the stroke data.
According to claim 2,
the processor,
A washing machine configured to wash the tub based on a cycle of washing the tub.
According to claim 6,
the processor,
Variablely adjusting a cycle of washing the tub based on the environmental data;
A washing machine configured to set a cycle of washing the tub short in summer and long in winter.
According to claim 7,
the processor,
When the humidity of the region where the washing machine is located exceeds a predetermined value, the tub washing cycle is set short, and when the humidity of the region where the washing machine is located does not exceed a predetermined value, the tub washing cycle is set long. .
According to claim 1,
display unit; and
Including more speakers,
the processor,
The washing machine configured to output the guidance information including information suggesting washing of the tub through at least one of the display unit and the speaker.
According to claim 1,
the processor,
Based on the output guide information, it is identified whether a command to wash the tub is input;
When it is identified that the command is input, the washing machine is set to wash the tub by controlling the motor.
According to claim 1,
The processor identifies whether communication with the portable terminal is possible,
The washing machine configured to transmit the guidance information to the portable terminal through a communication unit when it is identified that communication with the portable terminal is possible.
in the washing machine,
a tub located inside the washing machine and accommodating laundry;
a motor that transmits power to the tub;
speaker;
display unit;
communications department; and
A processor electrically connected to the motor, the speaker, the display unit, and the communication unit;
the processor,
Obtaining administration data on a washing cycle of the washing machine;
Transmitting the obtained administrative data to a server through the communication unit;
In response to the transmission of the administrative data, identifying whether guidance information is received from the server through the communication unit;
The washing machine configured to output the received guide information through at least one of the speaker and the display unit when the guide information is received.
in the server,
communications department;
Memory; and
It includes a processor electrically connected to the communication unit and the memory,
the processor,
Obtaining administrative data of the washing machine through the communication unit,
Obtaining environmental data through the communication unit,
Determine whether to wash the tub of the washing machine based on the obtained administrative data and environmental data;
When the cleaning of the tub is determined, guide information for guiding the cleaning of the tub is generated;
A server configured to transmit the generated guide information to at least one of the washing machine and a portable terminal related to the washing machine through the communication unit.
According to claim 13,
The server of claim 1 , wherein the administrative data includes information on at least one of a washing course, the number of washings, the number of spin-drying, an amount of bubbles generated for the washing course, a tub washing cycle, and a spin-drying RPM (Revolutions Per Minute).
According to claim 13,
The environmental data server including information on at least one of temperature, humidity, season, fine dust, and region.
According to claim 14,
the processor,
The server determines to wash the tub when at least one of the first reference number of times of washing, the second reference number of spin times or more, and the first reference value or more of the amount of foam generation are satisfied for each washing course.
According to claim 14,
the processor,
determining to clean the tub based on a cleaning cycle of the tub;
A server configured to variably adjust a cycle of washing the tub based on the environmental data.
According to claim 13,
the processor,
When the humidity of the region where the washing machine is located exceeds a predetermined value, the tub washing cycle is set short, and when the humidity of the region where the washing machine is located does not exceed a predetermined value, the tub washing cycle is set long. .
In a program comprising instructions executed on a computing device,
instructions for acquiring administration data for a washing cycle of the washing machine;
instructions that allow obtaining environmental data; and
A program including instructions for determining whether or not to wash the tub of the washing machine based on the obtained administrative data and environmental data.
According to claim 19,
These commands are
Based on the analysis of the stroke data, if at least one of the first standard number of washing times or more, the second standard number of spin times or more, and the first standard value or more of the amount of foam generation is satisfied for each washing course, the tub is washed. commands to do;
instructions for setting a cycle for cleaning the tub based on the administration data;
instructions for cleaning the tub based on a cycle of cleaning the tub;
instructions for variably adjusting a cycle of washing the tub based on the environment data;
instructions for setting the tub washing cycle to be short in summer and long in winter; and
When the humidity in the area where the washing machine is located is above a certain value, the tub washing cycle is set short, and when the humidity in the area where the washing machine is located is not above a certain value, the tub washing cycle is set long A program containing at least one of the instructions.

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