KR20240021090A - Filter apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

A filter device disposed outside a washing machine and connectable to a drain device of the washing machine, comprising: a housing; a filter case provided inside the housing and having an inlet and an outlet; A filter detachably mounted on the filter case; and a circuitry provided between the housing and the filter case and including a control unit and a communication unit, wherein the communication unit transmits information obtained by the filter device to at least one of the washing machine or the user device. Send.

Description

Filter device{FILTER APPARATUS}

The disclosed invention relates to a filter device connectable to a washing machine.

A washing machine is a device that uses the driving force of a drive motor to agitate the laundry, water, and detergent put into the tub together, thereby allowing washing to occur through mutual friction.

Regardless of the type of washing machine, the processes performed by the washing machine include a washing process in which detergent and water are supplied to the tub containing the laundry and the laundry is rotated while rotating the drum, and a rinsing process is performed in which water is supplied to the tub and the drum is rotated to rinse the laundry. It may include an operation and a spin-drying operation in which water is discharged from the tub and the drum is rotated to remove moisture from the laundry.

The washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water in the tub to the outside of the washing machine when performing a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, and/or a dehydration cycle.

Water discharged from drainage systems contains contaminants (e.g. microplastics), so filtering out contaminants is required to protect the environment.

One aspect of the present disclosure provides a filter device that is easy to manage.

One aspect of the present disclosure provides a filter device capable of communicating with an external device.

One aspect of the present disclosure provides a filter device that allows a user to easily check its status.

One aspect of the present disclosure provides a filter device that can be easily controlled by a user.

The technical problem to be achieved in this document is not limited to the technical problem mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. There will be.

A filter device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a filter device disposed outside a washing machine and connectable to a drain device of the washing machine, comprising: a housing; a filter case provided inside the housing and having an inlet and an outlet; A filter detachably mounted on the filter case; and a circuitry provided between the housing and the filter case and including a control unit and a communication unit, wherein the communication unit transmits information obtained by the filter device to at least one of the washing machine or the user device. Can be sent.

Additionally, the filter device may include at least one sensor connected to an electrical unit, and the control unit may transmit a signal detected by the at least one sensor to at least one of the washing machine or the user device.

In addition, the at least one sensor includes a first sensor that detects the inflow of water through the inlet, and the control unit, in response to detecting the inflow of water through the inlet by the first sensor, The communication unit may be controlled to transmit a drain detection signal to at least one of the washing machine or the user device.

In addition, the control unit may control the communication unit to transmit a drain interruption signal to at least one of the washing machine or the user device in response to detection of an interruption in the inflow of water through the inlet by the first sensor.

In addition, the at least one sensor includes a second sensor that detects blockage of the filter, and the control unit is configured to operate the washing machine or the user in response to detecting blockage of the filter by the second sensor. The communication unit may be controlled to transmit a filter blockage signal to at least one of the devices.

In addition, the filter device further includes a filter cleaning device including a cleaning member provided to be rotatable and in contact with a surface of the filter through which foreign substances are filtered, and a cleaning motor for rotating the cleaning member, wherein the control unit includes, The cleaning motor may be operated in response to detecting the inflow of water through the inlet.

In addition, the control unit determines whether the filter is clogged based on the load of the cleaning motor during operation of the cleaning motor, and sends a filter clogging signal to at least one of the washing machine or the user device in response to the filter being determined to be clogged. The communication unit can be controlled to transmit.

Additionally, the communication unit may receive at least one of a drain start signal or a drain stop signal from the washing machine.

Additionally, the communication unit may transmit at least one of the drain start signal or the drain stop signal to the user device.

In addition, the filter device may further include a user interface device exposed to the outer surface of the housing and connected to the electrical unit.

Additionally, the user interface device may include an output interface that displays visualized information related to the filter device.

Additionally, the control unit may control the output interface to display visual information to notify of blockage of the filter in response to detection of blockage of the filter.

Additionally, the control unit may control the output interface to display visual information for notifying the inflow of water in response to detecting the inflow of water through the inlet.

Additionally, the communication unit may transmit information acquired by the filter device to the washing machine or the user device via a server.

Additionally, the communication unit may transmit information acquired by the filter device to the user device via the washing machine.

Additionally, the communication unit may include a wireless communication module or a wired communication module connectable to the washing machine.

Additionally, the electrical unit may be provided on an upper side of the filter case.

In addition, the filter device may further include a cable connected to an external power source for supplying power to the electrical unit.

In addition, the filter device may further include a battery that supplies power to the electrical unit.

Additionally, the control unit may operate the cleaning motor in response to receiving a filter cleaning command from the washing machine or the user device through the communication unit.

1 shows a clothing processing device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 2 shows a cross section of the washing machine shown in FIG. 1.
Figure 3 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to one embodiment.
4 shows a clothing processing device according to one embodiment.
Figure 5 shows a cross section of the washing machine shown in Figure 4.
Figure 6 shows the interior of the filter device shown in Figures 1 and 3.
Figure 7 is an exploded view of the filter device shown in Figure 6.
Figure 8 shows the filter device shown in Figure 7 from a different direction than Figure 7.
FIG. 9 shows a cross-section of a portion of the filter device shown in FIG. 6.
Figure 10 is an exploded view of the electrical module of the filter device according to one embodiment.
Figure 11 shows an electrical part of a filter device according to one embodiment.
FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, and 12E show examples of various positions of electrical modules according to one embodiment.
FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, and 13E show examples of various positions of the display panel of the filter device according to one embodiment.
Figure 14 is a control block diagram of a filter device according to one embodiment.
Figure 15 is a control block diagram of a washing machine, a filter device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment.
Figure 16 shows an example of communication established between a washing machine, a filter device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment.
Figures 17a and 17b show an example of communication established between a washing machine, a filter device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment.
Figures 18a and 18b show an example of communication established between a washing machine, a filter device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment.
Figure 19 shows a washing machine and a filter device connected by wire, according to one embodiment.
Figure 20 shows a connection formed in a washing machine according to one embodiment.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which a filter device transmits a drain detection signal to a washing machine and/or a user device according to an embodiment.
Figure 22 shows an example of how multiple information is output to a filter device according to an embodiment.
Figure 23 shows an example of how drain information is output to a washing machine according to an embodiment.
Figure 24 shows an example of multiple information being output to a user device according to an embodiment.
FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which a filter device transmits a drain stop signal to a washing machine and/or a user device according to an embodiment.
Figure 26 shows an example of how drainage interruption information is output to a filter device according to an embodiment.
Figure 27 shows an example of drain interruption information being output to a washing machine according to an embodiment.
FIG. 28 illustrates an example of drain interruption information being output to a user device according to an embodiment.
Figure 29 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which a filter device transmits a filter clogging signal to a washing machine and/or a user device according to an embodiment.
Figure 30 shows an example of filter clogging information being output to a filter device according to an embodiment.
Figure 31 shows an example of filter clogging information being output to a washing machine according to an embodiment.
Figure 32 shows an example of filter clogging information being output to a user device according to an embodiment.
Figure 33 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which a washing machine transmits a drain start signal to a filter device and/or a user device according to an embodiment.
Figure 34 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which a washing machine transmits a drain stop signal to a filter device and/or a user device according to an embodiment.
Figure 35 is a flow chart illustrating an example of a method in which a washing machine transmits a filter blockage signal to a filter device and/or a user device according to an embodiment.
Figure 36 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which a filter device (washing machine) transmits a sensor failure signal to the washing machine (filter device) and/or a user device according to an embodiment.
Figure 37 shows an example of sensor failure information being output to a filter device according to an embodiment.
Figure 38 shows an example of sensor failure information being output to a washing machine according to an embodiment.
Figure 39 shows an example of sensor failure information being output to a user device according to an embodiment.
Figure 40 illustrates a user interface for inputting a filter cleaning command provided by a user device according to an embodiment.
Figure 41 shows an example of a process in which a filter cleaning command is transmitted from a user device to a filter device via a server.
Figure 42 shows an example of a process in which a filter cleaning command is transmitted from a user device to a filter device via a washing machine.

The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the drawings are only preferred examples of the disclosed invention, and at the time of filing this application, there may be various modifications that can replace the embodiments and drawings in this specification.

Terms used herein are used to describe embodiments and are not intended to limit and/or limit the disclosed invention.

For example, herein, singular expressions may include plural expressions, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

As used herein, “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “A Each of phrases such as “at least one of , B, or C” may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or any possible combination thereof.

The term “and/or” includes a combination of a plurality of related described elements or any element of a plurality of related described elements.

Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one element from another, and may be used to distinguish such elements in other respects, such as importance or order) is not limited.

One (e.g. first) component is said to be "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g. second) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively". Where mentioned, it means that any of the components can be connected to the other components directly (e.g. wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

Terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to designate the existence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this document, but do not include one or more other features, numbers, or steps. , does not exclude in advance the possibility of the existence or addition of operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact” with another component, this means not only when the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also when a third component This includes cases where it is indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or contacted through.

When a component is said to be located “on” another component, this includes not only cases where a component is in contact with another component, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

Additionally, terms such as "~unit", "~unit", "~block", "~member", and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the terms may mean at least one piece of hardware such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA)/application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), at least one software stored in memory, or at least one process processed by a processor. there is.

Washing machines according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, draining, and dewatering operations. The washing machine may be a dryer-type washing machine capable of performing a drying cycle on laundry that has completed dehydration. A washing machine may be an example of a clothing processing device. Clothing processing equipment is a concept that includes devices that wash clothes (objects to be washed, objects to be dried), devices that dry clothes, and devices that can both wash and dry clothes.

Washing machines according to various embodiments include a top-loading washing machine in which the inlet for putting in or taking out laundry faces upward, or a front-loading machine in which the inlet for putting in or taking out laundry faces forward. Front-loading) may include a washing machine. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines with loading methods other than top loading washing machines and front loading washing machines.

In the case of a top loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and fall the laundry. In the case of a front loading washing machine, it may include a lift to raise the laundry. A front-loading washing machine may include a dryer/drying machine capable of drying laundry stored inside a drum. A dryer/washer may include a heating device for hot air. The dryer combined washing machine may further include a condensing device for dry air. As an example, a dryer/washing machine may include a heat pump. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine using a washing method other than the above-described washing method.

Hereinafter, a washing machine according to various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

1 shows a clothing processing device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 shows a cross section of the washing machine shown in FIG. 1.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the washing machine 10 of the clothing processing device 1 may include a washing machine housing 11 that accommodates various components therein. The washing machine housing 11 may form the exterior of the washing machine 10. The washing machine housing 11 may have a box shape with one portion open.

The washing machine housing 11 may include a housing opening 12 formed to provide access to the interior of the drum 30 . The housing opening 12 may open approximately forward.

The washing machine 10 may include a door 13 for opening and closing the housing opening 12 provided in the washing machine housing 11. The door 13 can be rotatably mounted on the washing machine housing 11 by a hinge 14. At least a portion of the door 13 may be transparent or translucent so that the inside of the washing machine housing 11 is visible.

The washing machine 10 may include a tub 20 provided inside the washing machine housing 11 to store water. The tub 20 may be placed inside the washing machine housing 11. The tub 20 may include a tub opening 22 provided to correspond to the housing opening 12. The tub opening 22 may be open approximately forward. The tub 20 may be supported inside the washing machine housing 11. The tub 20 may have a substantially cylindrical shape with one side open.

The tub 20 may be elastically supported from the washing machine housing 11 by the damper 80. The damper 80 can connect the washing machine housing 11 and the tub 20. The damper 80 absorbs vibration energy between the tub 20 and the washing machine housing 11 when the vibration generated when the drum 30 rotates is transmitted to the tub 20 and/or the washing machine housing 11. It may be arranged to dampen vibration.

The washing machine 10 may include a drum 30 provided to accommodate laundry. The drum 30 may be rotatably provided inside the tub 20 . The drum 30 may perform washing, rinsing, and/or dehydration while rotating inside the tub 20. The drum 30 may include a through hole 34 connecting the inner space of the drum 30 and the inner space of the tub 20. The drum 30 may have a substantially cylindrical shape with one side open. At least one lifter 35 may be installed on the inner peripheral surface of the drum 30 to allow laundry to rise and fall when the drum 30 rotates.

The drum 30 may include a drum opening 32 provided to correspond to the housing opening 12 and the tub opening 22. Laundry may be put into or taken out of the drum 30 through the housing opening 12, the tub opening 22, and the drum opening 32.

The washing machine 10 may include a washing machine driving device 40 configured to rotate the drum 30 . The washing machine driving device 40 may include a driving motor 41 and a rotating shaft 42 for transmitting the driving force generated by the driving motor 41 to the drum 30. The rotating shaft 42 may pass through the tub 20 and be connected to the drum 30.

The washing machine 10 is a direct drive type in which the rotation shaft 42 is directly connected to the drive motor 41 to rotate the drum 30, and a pulley 43 is connected between the drive motor 41 and the rotation shaft 42. Thus, it can be classified into an indirect drive type that drives the drum 30.

The washing machine 10 according to one embodiment may be provided as an indirect drive type, but is not limited thereto and may be provided as a direct drive type.

One end of the rotating shaft 42 may be connected to the drum 30, and the other end may be connected to the pulley 43 to receive power from the drive motor 41. A motor pulley 41a may be formed on the rotation axis of the drive motor 41. A driving belt 44 is provided between the motor pulley 41a and the pulley 43, so that the rotating shaft 42 can be driven by the driving belt 44.

A bearing housing 45 may be installed on a portion of the rear portion of the tub 20 to rotatably support the rotating shaft 42. The bearing housing 45 may be made of aluminum alloy and may be inserted into a portion of the rear of the tub 20 when the tub 20 is injection molded.

The washing machine driving device 40 may be provided to rotate the drum 30 forward or backward to perform washing, rinsing, and/or dehydration, or drying operations.

The washing machine 10 may include a water supply device 50. The water supply device 50 can supply water to the tub 20. The water supply device 50 may be located above the tub 20. The water supply device 50 may include a water supply pipe 51 and a water supply valve 56 provided in the water supply pipe 51. The water supply pipe 51 may be connected to an external water supply source. The water supply pipe 51 may extend from an external water supply source to the detergent supply device 60 and/or the tub 20. Water may be supplied to the tub 20 through the detergent supply device 60. Water can be supplied to the tub 20 without going through the detergent supply device 60.

The water supply valve 56 may open or close the water supply pipe 51 in response to an electrical signal from the control unit 90. The water supply valve 56 may allow or block the supply of water from an external water supply source to the tub 20. The water supply valve 56 may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

The washing machine 10 may include a detergent supply device 60 configured to supply detergent to the tub 20 . The detergent supply device 60 may be configured to supply detergent into the tub 20 during the water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe 51 may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device 60. Water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the interior of the tub 20. Detergents may include not only laundry detergents but also dryer rinses, deodorants, disinfectants, or air fresheners. The detergent supply device 60 may be connected to the tub 20 through a connector 61.

The washing machine 10 may include a drainage device 70. The drainage device 70 may be configured to discharge water contained in the tub 20 to the outside. The drainage device 70 includes a drain pump 73 for discharging water from the tub 20 to the outside of the washing machine housing 11, and a tub for allowing water inside the tub 20 to flow into the drain pump 73. It may include a connecting hose 71 connecting (20) and the drain pump 73, and a drain hose 74 guiding the water pumped by the drain pump 73 to the outside of the washing machine housing 11. . The drainage device 70 may include a drain valve 72 provided on the connection hose 71 to open and close the connection hose 71.

The washing machine 10 may provide a user interface device 15 for interacting between a user and the washing machine 10 .

The washing machine 10 may include at least one user interface device 15. The user interface device 15 may include at least one input interface 16 and at least one output interface 17.

At least one input interface 16 may convert sensory information received from the user into an electrical signal.

At least one input interface 16 may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash/rinse/spin setting button. At least one input interface 16 may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and/or a microphone, etc. may include.

At least one output interface 17 may transmit various information related to the operation of the washing machine 10 to the user by generating sensory information.

For example, at least one output interface 17 may convey information related to the washing course, operation time of the washing machine 10, and wash settings/rinse settings/spin settings to the user. Information about the operation of the washing machine 10 may be output through a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface 17 may include, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) module, a speaker, etc. It can be included.

The clothing treatment device 1 may include a filter device 100 that can be connected to the drain device 70 of the washing machine 10. As an example, the filter device 100 may be provided to be connectable to the drain hose 74.

The filter device 100 may be placed outside the washing machine 10. As an example, the filter device 100 may be provided outside the washing machine housing 11. The filter device 100 may be provided to filter foreign substances from water discharged from the washing machine 10. The filter device 100 may be provided to filter foreign substances smaller than the size of foreign substances that can be filtered by the washing machine 10. As an example, the filter device 100 may be provided to filter foreign substances smaller than those that can be filtered by the drain device 70 of the washing machine 10.

Figure 3 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 includes a user interface device 15, a driving device 40, a water supply device 50, a drainage device 70, a sensor unit 95, and a communication unit 96. , and may include a control unit 90.

The user interface device 15 may provide a user interface for interaction between a user and the washing machine 10.

The user interface device 15 may include at least one input interface 16 and at least one output interface 17.

At least one input interface 16 may convert sensory information received from the user into an electrical signal.

At least one input interface 16 may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash/rinse/spin setting button. At least one input interface 16 may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and/or a microphone, etc. may include.

At least one output interface 17 may transmit various data related to the operation of the washing machine 10 to the user by generating sensory information.

For example, at least one output interface 17 may convey information related to the washing course, operation time of the washing machine 10, and wash settings/rinse settings/spin settings to the user. Information about the operation of the washing machine 10 may be output through a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface 17 may include, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

The driving device 40 may include a driving motor 41 that provides driving force to rotate the drum 30. The driving device 40 may operate based on a control signal from the controller 90.

The water supply device 50 may include a water supply valve 56 that opens and closes the water supply pipe 51 extending from an external water supply source to the detergent supply device 60 and/or the tub 20. The water supply valve 56 may be opened and closed based on a control signal from the controller 90.

The drain device 70 may include a drain pump 73 for discharging water in the tub 20 to the outside of the washing machine housing 11. The drain pump 73 may operate based on a control signal from the controller 90.

The sensor unit 95 may include at least one sensor that obtains information related to the operating state of the washing machine 10.

For example, the sensor unit 95 includes a water level sensor that detects the water level of the tub, a sensor that detects the operating state of the driving device 40, and a sensor that detects the flow rate flowing into the tub 20 through the water supply device 50. It may include at least one of a flow sensor or a sensor that detects the operating state of the drainage device 70.

The sensor that detects the operating state of the driving device 40 may include, for example, a current sensor that measures the driving current applied to the driving motor 41, but is not limited thereto.

The sensor that detects the operating state of the drainage device 70 may include, for example, a current sensor that measures the driving current applied to the drainage pump 73, but is not limited thereto.

The washing machine 10 may include a communication unit 96 for wired and/or wireless communication with an external device (e.g., server, user device, home appliance, and/or filter device 100).

The communication unit 96 may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-distance communication module.

The communication unit 96 can transmit data to or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication unit 96 may establish communication with the filter device 100, a server, a user device, and/or other home appliances, and transmit and receive various data.

To this end, the communication unit 96 may support establishment of a direct (eg, wired) communication channel or wireless communication channel between external devices, and communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication unit 96 is a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN)) may include a communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module is a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a legacy cellular network, 5G network, It can communicate with external devices through a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a telecommunication network such as a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into one component (e.g., a single chip) or may be implemented as a plurality of separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

The short-range wireless communication module includes a Bluetooth communication module, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, Near Field Communication module, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, Zigbee communication module, It may include, but is not limited to, an infrared data association (IrDA) communication module, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication module, an ultrawideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, and a microwave (uWave) communication module. no.

The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals to at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

In one embodiment, the communication unit 96 may communicate with external devices such as servers, user devices, and other home appliances through a nearby access point (AP). The access relay (AP) may connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine 10, the filter device 100, and/or the user device are connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The filter device 100, the washing machine 10, and/or the user device may be connected to the server through a wide area network (WAN).

The control unit 90 can control various components of the washing machine 10 (e.g., driving device 40, water supply device 50, and drainage device 70). The control unit 90 may control various components of the washing machine 10 to perform at least one operation including water supply, washing, rinsing, and/or dehydration according to user input. For example, the control unit 90 controls the drive motor 41 of the drive device 40 to adjust the rotation speed of the drum 30, or the water supply device 50 to supply water to the tub 20. The valve 56 can be controlled, or the drain pump 73 of the drain device 70 can be controlled to discharge water from the tub 20 to the outside.

The control unit 90 may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom, or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit 90 includes an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the washing machine 10, at least one memory 92 that stores data in the form of a program, and data stored in the at least one memory 92. It may include at least one processor 91 that performs the above-described operation and the below-described operation using . The memory 92 and the processor 91 may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor 91 may include one or two or more processor chips, or may include one or two or more processing cores. The memory 92 may include one or two or more memory chips, or may include one or two or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory 92 and processor 91 may be implemented as a single chip.

4 shows a clothing processing device according to one embodiment. Figure 5 shows a cross section of the washing machine shown in Figure 4.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the washing machine 10a of the clothing processing device 1a may include a housing 11a that accommodates various components therein. The housing 11a may form the exterior of the washing machine 10a. The housing 11a may have a box shape with one portion open.

The housing 11a may include a housing opening 12a formed to allow access to the interior of the drum 30a. The housing opening 12a may be open approximately upward.

The washing machine 10a may include a door 13a for opening and closing the housing opening 12a provided in the housing 11a. The door 13a may be rotatably mounted on the housing 11a by a hinge. At least a portion of the door 13a may be transparent or translucent so that the inside of the housing 11a is visible.

The washing machine 10a may include a tub 20a provided inside the housing 11a to store water. The tub 20a may be placed inside the housing 11a. The tub 20a may include a tub opening 22a provided to correspond to the housing opening 12a. The tub opening 22a may be opened approximately upward. The tub 20a may be supported inside the housing 11a. The tub 20a may have a substantially cylindrical shape with one side open.

The tub 20a may be elastically supported from the housing 11a by the damper 80a. The damper 80a can connect the housing 11a and the tub 20a. When the vibration generated when the drum 30a rotates is transmitted to the tub 20a and/or the housing 11a, the damper 80a absorbs the vibration energy between the tub 20a and the housing 11a to prevent vibration. It can be arranged to attenuate.

The washing machine 10a may include a drum 30a provided to accommodate laundry. The drum 30a may be rotatably provided inside the tub 20a. The drum 30a may perform washing, rinsing, and/or dehydration while rotating inside the tub 20a. The drum 30a may include a through hole 34a connecting the inner space of the drum 30a and the inner space of the tub 20a. The drum 30a may have a substantially cylindrical shape with one side open.

A balancing unit 36a may be installed at the top of the drum 30a to resolve load imbalance caused by laundry. The balancing unit 36a includes a housing having an annular channel, and a ball or fluid mass movably provided inside the channel, and the balls or fluid move according to the rotation of the drum 30a and move the drum 30a. Load imbalance can be resolved.

The pulsator 37a is rotatably provided at the bottom of the drum 30a and can generate a washing water stream. Laundry may be washed by the washing water stream generated by the pulsator 37a.

The drum 30a may include a drum opening 32a provided to correspond to the housing opening 12a and the tub opening 22a. Laundry can be put into or taken out from the drum 30a through the housing opening 12a, the tub opening 22a, and the drum opening 32a.

The washing machine 10a may include a washing machine driving device 40a configured to rotate the drum 30a and the pulsator 37a. The washing machine driving device 40a may include a driving motor 41a and a shaft system for transmitting the driving force generated by the driving motor 41a to the drum 30a and the pulsator 37a.

The driving motor 41a may include a fixed stator 48a and a rotor 49a that rotates by electromagnetically interacting with the stator 48a.

The shaft system includes a dehydration shaft 47a provided to transmit the driving force of the drive motor 41a to the drum 30a, a washing shaft 46a provided to transmit the driving force of the drive motor 41a to the pulsator 37a, and , It may include a clutch device (45a) that connects or disconnects the drive motor (41a) and the de-shrinkage (47a).

The deshrinking shaft 47a is formed to have a hollow, and the washing shaft 46a may be provided in the hollow of the deshrinking shaft 47a. The washing shaft 46a is maintained connected to the rotor 49a of the drive motor 41a, and the dehydration shaft 47a is connected to the rotor 49a of the drive motor 41a by the clutch device 45a. The connection may be lost.

When the clutch device 45a disconnects the deshrinking shaft 47a and the drive motor 41a, power is transmitted only to the washing shaft 46a to rotate only the pulsator 37a, and the clutch device 45a rotates the deshrinking shaft (46a). When 47a) and the drive motor 41a are connected, power is transmitted to both the dehydration shaft 47a and the washing shaft 46a, so that the drum 30a and the pulsator 37a can rotate simultaneously.

When only the pulsator (37a) rotates, a wash water stream is generated by the rotation of the pulsator (37a), and the laundry rotates due to the generated wash water stream and rubs against the drum (30a), thereby allowing the laundry to be washed. When the pulsator 37a and the drum 30a rotate simultaneously, the laundry inside the drum 30a rotates and moisture from the laundry is removed by centrifugal force, so that the laundry can be dehydrated.

The washing machine 10a may include a water supply device 50a. The water supply device 50a can supply water to the tub 20a. The water supply device 50a may be located above the tub 20a. The water supply device 50a may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve provided in the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water supply source. The water supply pipe may extend from an external water supply source to the detergent supply device 60a and/or the tub 20a. Water may be supplied to the tub 20a through the detergent supply device 60a. Water can be supplied to the tub 20a without going through the detergent supply device 60a.

The water supply valve may open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the control unit 90a. The water supply valve can allow or block the supply of water from an external water supply source to the tub 20a. The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

The washing machine 10a may include a detergent supply device 60a configured to supply detergent to the tub 20a. The detergent supply device 60a may be configured to supply detergent into the tub 20a during the water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device 60a. Water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub 20a. Detergents may include not only laundry detergents but also dryer rinses, deodorants, disinfectants, or air fresheners.

The washing machine 10a may include a drainage device 70a. The drainage device 70a may be configured to discharge water contained in the tub 20a to the outside. A drain 21a may be formed in the lower part of the tub 20a to drain water stored in the tub 20a to the outside of the tub 20a. A drain hose 74a may be connected to the drain hole 21a, and a drain valve 72a may be provided in the drain hose 74a to open and close the drain hose 74a.

The washing machine 10a may provide a user interface device 15a for interaction between the user and the washing machine 10a.

The washing machine 10a may include at least one user interface device 15a. The user interface device 15a may include at least one input interface 16a and at least one output interface 17b.

At least one input interface 16a may convert sensory information received from the user into an electrical signal.

At least one input interface 16a may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash/rinse/spin setting button. At least one input interface 16a may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and/or a microphone, etc. may include.

At least one output interface 17b can transmit various information related to the operation of the washing machine 10a to the user by generating sensory information.

For example, at least one output interface 17b may convey information related to the washing course, operation time of the washing machine 10a, and wash settings/rinse settings/spin settings to the user. Information about the operation of the washing machine 10a may be output through a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface 17b may include, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

The clothing treatment device 1a may include a filter device 100 that is the same as the filter device 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 . For example, the filter device 100 according to one embodiment may be connected to a front loading washing machine or a top loading washing machine. The filter device 100 may be provided to be connectable to the drain device 70a of the washing machine 10a. The filter device 100 may be placed outside the washing machine 10a. The filter device 100 may be provided to filter foreign substances from water discharged from the washing machine 10a. The filter device 100 may be provided to filter foreign substances smaller than those that can be filtered in the washing machine 10a. For example, the filter device 100 may be provided to filter foreign substances smaller than those that can be filtered by the drain device 70a of the washing machine 10a.

The washing machine 10a of the clothing treatment device 1a shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 may include the configuration of the washing machine 10 shown in FIG. 3 .

Figure 6 shows the interior of the filter device shown in Figures 1 and 4. Figure 7 is an exploded view of the filter device shown in Figure 6. Figure 8 shows the filter device shown in Figure 7 from a different direction than Figure 7. FIG. 9 shows a cross-section of a portion of the filter device shown in FIG. 6.

Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8 , the filter device 100 according to one embodiment may include a filter housing 101 that accommodates various components. The filter housing 101 may include a housing body 102, a housing cover 103, and a housing bracket 104. For example, the housing body 102, the housing cover 103, and the housing bracket 104 may each be provided in separate configurations. As an example, the housing body 102 may be formed integrally with the housing cover 103. As an example, the housing body 102 may be formed integrally with the housing bracket 104. As an example, the housing cover 103 may be formed integrally with the housing bracket 104. As an example, the housing body 102 may be formed integrally with the housing cover 103 and the housing bracket 104.

The housing body 102 may form a space for accommodating various components. The housing body 102 may have a substantially U-shape in cross-section perpendicular to the direction in which the filter 120 accommodated therein extends. The housing body 102 may have a box shape with open front, rear, and top surfaces. The housing body 102 may be detachably coupled to the housing cover 103 and/or the housing bracket 104.

The housing body 102 has a housing inlet 102a for allowing water to flow into the filter device 100, and a housing discharge port for discharging the water inside the filter device 100 to the outside of the filter device 100. It may include a portion 102b. The housing inlet 102a and/or the housing outlet 102b may be located at the bottom of the housing body 102.

The housing inlet 102a may be connected to the drain hoses 74 and 74a of the washing machines 10 and 10a. The housing discharge portion 102b may be connected to the drain line 105.

The housing cover 103 may be provided to cover the open front and top surfaces of the housing body 102. The housing cover 103 may be detachably coupled to the housing body 102 and/or the housing bracket 104. The housing cover 103 may include a cover opening 103a that allows the filter 120 to pass through. The housing cover 103 may include an installation portion 103b on which the user interface device 197 is installed. At least a portion of the user interface device 197 may be exposed to the outside of the filter device 100 through the installation portion 103b.

The housing bracket 104 may be provided to cover the open rear side of the housing body 102. The housing bracket 104 may be detachably coupled to the housing body 102 and/or the housing cover 103. The housing bracket 104 may include a cable opening 104a through which the power cable 109 can pass. The housing bracket 104 may include a connector mounting portion 104b configured to connect a connector 108 for communication with an external device, such as a washing machine 10.

The filter device 100 may include a filter case 110 located inside the filter housing 101. The filter case 110 may form a flow path through which water flowing into the filter device 100 passes. The filter case 110 may be prepared to accommodate the filter 120. The filter case 110 may include a case body 111 and a case cover 112.

The case body 111 may extend along the direction in which the filter 120 accommodated therein extends. The case body 111 may include a case opening 111a through which the filter 120 can pass. The case opening 111a may be provided to correspond to the cover opening 103a. The case opening 111a is located closer to the case outlet 111b than the case inlet 112a, and may be provided to allow the filter 120 to pass through.

The case body 111 may include a case discharge portion 111b for discharging water flowing into the filter case 110 from the filter case 110 . The case discharge portion 111b may be located at the lower part of the case body 111. The case discharge portion 111b may be located adjacent to the case opening 111a. The case discharge portion 111b may be located close to the other end of the filter 120, which is opposite to one end where the filter opening 120a is located. The case discharge unit 111b may be located closer to the second filter unit 122 than the first filter unit 121 of the filter 120.

The case discharge portion 111b may be connected to the housing discharge portion 102b. The filter device 100 may include a discharge guide 107 for connecting the case discharge portion 111b and the housing discharge portion 102b.

The case cover 112 may be detachably coupled to one end of the case body 111 where the case opening 111a is located and the other end opposite to the other end. As an example, the case cover 112 may be formed integrally with the case body 111.

The case cover 112 may include a case inlet 112a through which water flows into the filter case 110. The case inlet 112a may be connected to the housing inlet 102a. The filter device 100 may include an inlet guide 106 for connecting the case inlet 112a and the housing inlet 102a. Case inlet 112a may include an inlet.

The case cover 112 may include a motor mounting portion 112b for mounting the filter cleaning device 130. The motor mounting portion 112b may be located above the case inlet portion 112a. The cleaning motor 136 of the filter cleaning device 130 may be mounted on the motor mounting portion 112b.

The filter device 100 may include a filter 120 that can be detachably coupled to the filter case 110 . The filter 120 may be provided to filter fine-sized foreign substances. The filter 120 may be provided to filter microplastics of approximately 5 mm or less in size. Filter 120 may include a mesh filter. Filter 120 may extend approximately between case inlet 112a and case outlet 111b.

When mounted in the filter case 110, the filter 120 may include a filter opening 120a that opens toward the case inlet 112a. Water flowing into the filter case 110 through the case inlet 112a may move into the interior of the filter 120 through the filter opening 120a.

The filter 120 may include a first filter unit 121 and a second filter unit 122. The first filter unit 121 may be located closer to the case inlet 112a than the second filter unit 122. The water flowing into the filter case 110 may have foreign substances filtered out of the first filter unit 121, or may pass through the first filter unit 121 without being filtered out by the first filter unit 121, and then be filtered through the second filter. Foreign matter may be filtered out in unit 122. The first filter unit 121 and the second filter unit 122 may be sequentially arranged along the direction in which the filter 120 extends. Foreign substances transferred from the first filter unit 121 by the filter cleaning device 130 may be collected in the second filter unit 122 .

The filter device 100 may include a handle 129 whose at least a portion is exposed to the outside of the filter housing 101 when the filter 120 is mounted on the filter case 110. The handle 129 may be detachably coupled to the filter 120. As the handle 129 is detachably coupled to the filter 120, the filter 120 can be easily maintained and/or repaired. The handle 129 may be rotatably coupled to the cover opening 103a and/or the case opening 111a.

The filter device 100 may include a filter cleaning device 130 for cleaning the filter 120. The filter cleaning device 130 may be mounted on the filter case 110. The filter cleaning device 130 may include a cleaning member 131 for cleaning the surface of the filter 120 through which foreign substances are filtered, and a cleaning drive device 135 for driving the cleaning member 131.

The cleaning member 131 may be located inside the filter 120. The cleaning member 131 may be provided to correspond to the first filter unit 121 of the filter 120. The cleaning member 131 may have a blade 131a extending spirally. The blade 131a may extend in the radial direction from the rotation axis of the cleaning member 131. The cleaning member 131 may be provided to contact the surface of the filter 120 through which foreign substances are filtered. The cleaning member 131 may be provided to contact the inner surface of the filter 120. As an example, the cleaning member 131 may include a plurality of brushes.

While the cleaning member 131 is driven by the cleaning drive device 135, foreign substances filtered from a part of the filter 120 close to the case inlet 112a are transferred to the case outlet 111b of the filter 120. It may be arranged to be transferred to a portion of the nearby filter 120. The cleaning member 131 may be provided to transfer foreign substances filtered in the first filter unit 121 to the second filter unit 122. As an example, the cleaning member 131 may be rotatably provided inside the filter 120. The cleaning member 131 may include a flexible material. The cleaning member 131 rotates while in contact with the filter 120 and can clean foreign substances filtered by the filter 120. While the cleaning member 131 is driven in contact with the filter 120, it can scrape and remove foreign substances attached to the filtering surface of the filter 120. As an example, the cleaning member 131 may be provided to be slidable inside the filter 120.

The cleaning member 131 is provided to transfer foreign substances filtered in the first filter unit 121 to the second filter unit 122, and the water flowing into the filter case 110 is removed from the first filter unit 121. As it flows to the second filter unit 122, foreign substances filtered in the first filter unit 121 can be efficiently collected in the second filter unit 122.

The cleaning drive device 135 may include a cleaning motor 136 and a motor shaft 137. The cleaning motor 136 may be configured to generate power to drive the cleaning member 131. The motor shaft 137 may be connected to the cleaning member 131. The cleaning motor 136 may be mounted on the filter case 110. The cleaning motor 136 may be located closer to the case inlet 112a than the case outlet 112b.

The filter device 100 may include a circuitry module 190 located inside the filter housing 101. The electrical module 190 may be located at the upper end of the inside of the filter housing 101. The electrical module 190 may be located on one side of the filter case 110. As an example, the electrical module 190 may be located on the upper side of the filter case 110. As an example, the electrical module 190 may be placed above the filter 120.

As another example, the electrical module 190 may be provided on the lower, left, right, front, and/or rear side of the filter case 110.

The electrical module 190 may be provided with a control unit 191 for controlling the filter device 100 and a communication unit 199 for communicating with the washing machines 10 and 10a.

The filter device 100 may include a user interface device 197 located above the electrical module 190. At least a portion of the user interface device 197 may be exposed to the outside of the filter device 100 through the installation portion 103b of the filter housing 101. The user interface device 197 may be located on the top of the filter device 100. The user interface device 197 may include at least one input interface 197a and at least one output interface 197b. According to various embodiments, the user interface device 197 may be provided on the upper, lower, left, right, front, and/or rear side of the filter housing 101.

At least one input interface 197a may convert sensory information received from the user into an electrical signal.

At least one input interface 197a may include a power button, an operation button, and/or a communication button. At least one input interface 16 may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and/or a microphone, etc. may include.

According to various embodiments, the power button is a button for supplying power to the filter device 100, the operation button is a button for operating the filter cleaning device 130, and the communication button is a button for connecting the filter device 100 to an external device. It may be a button to switch to a state where communication is possible with (e.g., washing machine, user device, home appliance, etc.).

At least one output interface 197b may transmit various information related to the operation and/or state of the filter device 100 to the user by generating sensory information.

For example, the at least one output interface 197b may include the state of water flowing into the filter device 100, the blockage state of the filter 120, the state of at least one sensor provided in the filter device 100, and the state of the filter cleaning device 130. ) can convey information related to the operating status of the device to the user.

Various information related to the operation and/or status of the filter device 100 may be output through a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface 197b includes, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) module, a speaker, etc. It can be included.

The output interface 197b may be located on the top of the filter device 100. However, the location of the output interface 197b is not limited to this, and the output interface 197b may be provided on the front, side, or rear of the filter device 100.

According to various embodiments, at least one input interface 197a and one output interface 197b may be provided on different sides of the filter housing 101. For example, at least one input interface 197a may be provided on the top of the filter housing 101 and the output interface 197b may be provided on the front of the filter housing 101.

According to the present disclosure, the user can check various information related to the operation and/or status of the filter device 100 through the output interface 197b in front of the filter device 100 without the need to approach the filter device 100. there is. Additionally, according to the present disclosure, various commands can be easily input through at least one input interface 197a provided on the upper side of the filter device 100 without the need to lower one's posture.

The filter device 100 may include a filter sensor 181 that obtains information about the state of the filter 120. The filter sensor 181 may be mounted on the filter case 110. The filter sensor 181 may be located outside the filter case 110. The filter sensor 181 may be positioned to correspond to the second filter unit 122 of the filter 120 mounted on the filter case 110. As an example, the filter sensor 181 may include a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor (eg, an infrared sensor), and/or an ultrasonic sensor.

The filter sensor 181 can detect the amount of foreign substances collected in the filter 120.

The filter device 100 may include a water supply sensor 182 to detect water flowing into the filter device 100. The water sensor 182 can detect the inflow of water through the case inlet 112a.

The water supply sensor 182 may be mounted at the bottom of the filter case 110. The water supply sensor 182 may be located close to the case inlet 112a of the filter case 110. According to various embodiments, the water sensor 182 may be provided inside the case inlet 112a. As an example, the water sensor 182 may include a capacitance sensor and/or a flow rate sensor.

Referring to FIG. 9, the filter case 110 may include a residual water guide 119 formed to guide the residual water inside the filter case 110. The residual water guide 119 may be located below the filter 120 in the direction of gravity. As an example, the residual water guide 119 may be formed to slope downward from the case discharge portion 111b toward the case inlet portion 112a. The residual water guide 119 may be formed to be inclined to have a predetermined angle (a) with respect to a direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity. The residual water guide 119 can prevent water inside the filter case 110 from being discharged to the outside of the filter device 100 through the case discharge portion 111b.

The position of the lower end of the inlet of the case discharge unit 111b in the direction of gravity may be formed to be higher than the position of the lower end of the case inlet part 112a in the direction of gravity. When residual water occurs inside the filter case 110, the residual water may move from the periphery of the case discharge portion 111b toward the case inlet 112a by gravity. For example, the bottom surface of the filter case 110 between the inlet of the case discharge part 111b and the case inlet part 112a may be prepared to include a portion having a step.

Case inlet 112a may be located below the filter 120. The uppermost end of the case inlet 112a in the direction of gravity may be located below the uppermost end of the filter 120 in the direction of gravity. The lowest end of the case inlet 112a in the direction of gravity may be located below the lowest end of the filter 120 in the direction of gravity. The inlet of the case discharge unit 111b may be located below the filter 120.

Filter case 110 may include a connector 118. The connector 118 may be located at one end close to the case inlet 112a of the residual water guide 119. The connector 118 may be formed in the filter case 110 to discharge water guided by the residual water guide 119 toward the case inlet 112a.

The filter device 100 may include an opening and closing device 140 for opening and closing the connector 118. The opening and closing device 140 may include a connecting door 141 and a door motor 142 for operating the connecting door 141.

The connection door 141 may be provided to open and close the connector 118. The connection door 141 may be provided in a size and/or shape that can close the connector 118. The connection door 141 may be rotatably coupled to the filter case 110. The connection door 141 may be rotatable in the direction in which water flows from the residual water guide 119 to the case inlet 112a. The connection door 141 may be rotatable in a direction opposite to the direction in which water flowing in through the case inlet 112a flows into the connector 118. The connection door 141 may be provided to prevent the connection port 118 from being opened by the water pressure of water flowing in through the case inlet 112a.

The door motor 142 may be provided to generate power to operate the connecting door 141. The opening and closing device 140 may include a power transmission device 143 for transmitting power generated by the door motor 142 to the connecting door 141. Power generated by the door motor 142 may be transmitted to the connecting door 141 through the power transmission device 142.

A filtering passage 116 that passes through the filter 120 and a bypass passage 117 that bypasses the filter 120 may be formed inside the filter case 110. Water flowing in through the case inlet 112a may move to the case outlet 111b through the filtering passage 116, or may move to the case discharge 111b through the bypass passage 117.

The connector 118 may be located at one end close to the case inlet 112a of the bypass passage 117. While the connection door 141 opens the connection port 118, water flowing in through the case inlet 112a may move directly to the bypass passage 117 without passing through the filtering passage 116. While the connection door 141 opens the connection port 118, water in the bypass passage 117 may move directly to the case inlet 112a without passing through the filtering passage 116. The connector 118 may be formed to allow water in the bypass flow path 117 to move to the case inlet 112a, or to allow water flowing into the case inlet 112a to move to the bypass flow path 117.

Figure 10 is an exploded view of the electrical module of the filter device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 10, the electrical equipment module 190 includes an electrical equipment unit 190a (circuitry), an electrical equipment case 193 that accommodates the electrical equipment unit 190a therein, and at least an electrical equipment module 190 coupled to the electrical equipment unit 190a. One component may include an interface device cover 194 coupled to the electrical equipment case 193 so that it is exposed to the outside of the electrical equipment case 193.

The interface device cover 194 may include at least one opening through which the user interface device 197 electrically connected to the electrical device 190a is exposed to the outside of the electrical device case 193 .

As an example, the input interface 197a is exposed to the outside of the electrical unit case 193 by the interface device cover 194, and is exposed to the outside of the filter device 100 by the installation portion 103b of the filter housing 101. may be exposed.

For example, the output interface 197b may be exposed to the outside of the electrical unit case by the interface device cover 194 and may be exposed to the outside of the filter device 100 by the installation portion 103b of the filter housing 101. there is.

The electrical unit case 193 may be provided on the upper side of the filter case 110. Accordingly, the electrical portion 190a may be provided on the upper side of the filter case 110.

The electrical unit case 193 may include an upper case 193a and a lower case 193b.

As the electrical unit 190a is provided on the upper side of the filter case 110, it is possible to prevent the electrical unit 190a from being damaged by water flowing out of the filter case 110.

The electrical components case 193 (193a, 193b) includes electrical components of the filter device 100 (e.g., cleaning drive device 135, at least one sensor 181, 182, and power cable 109) connected to the electrical component 190a. ) may include an installation part (e.g., an opening) that allows connection.

As an example, the lower case 193b may include at least one opening that allows the electric unit 190a and at least one sensor 181 and 182 to be electrically connected.

As another example, the lower case 193b may include at least one opening that allows the electric unit 190a and the cleaning drive device 135 to be electrically connected.

As another example, the lower case 193b may include at least one opening that allows the electric unit 190a and the power cable 109 to be electrically connected.

According to various embodiments, the upper case 193a may include at least one opening that allows the user interface device 197 to be exposed to the outside of the filter housing 101.

For example, the upper case 193a may include at least one opening that allows the output interface 197b to be exposed to the outside of the filter housing 101.

As another example, the upper case 193a may include at least one opening that allows the input interface 197a to be exposed to the outside of the filter housing 101.

In one embodiment, output interface 197b may be covered by bracket 197c.

Figure 11 shows an electrical part of a filter device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 11, the electrical equipment unit 190a according to one embodiment includes a power supply unit 192 for receiving power, a control unit 191 for controlling the operation of the filter device 100, and at least one sensor 181. , 182), a sensor connector 195 to which the cleaning motor 136 can be coupled, a motor connector 196 to which the cleaning motor 136 can be coupled, an input connector 197ac to which the input interface 197a can be coupled, and an output The interface 197b may include an output connector 197bc that can be coupled and a communication unit 199.

The power unit 192 can be connected to an external power source to supply power to the electrical unit 190a.

In one embodiment, the power supply unit 192 may receive power from an external power source through a power cable 109 (see FIG. 8).

According to various embodiments, the filter device 100 may further include a battery (not shown), and the power supply unit 192 may receive power from the battery.

When the filter device 100 includes a battery, the battery may be provided at the rear of the filter case 110. Additionally, when the filter device 100 includes a battery, the power cable 109 may be omitted, and a port for charging the battery may be exposed to the outside of the filter housing 101. As an example, a port for charging the battery may be provided in the housing bracket 104.

However, the example in which the power supply unit 192 receives power is not limited to the above-described example. For example, when the filter device 100 includes a coil for receiving power, the power supply unit 192 may receive power from the coil for transmitting power through the coil for receiving power.

According to various embodiments, the washing machine 10 according to one embodiment may include a coil for power transmission, and the filter device 100 is installed at a position corresponding to the coil for power transmission included in the washing machine 10. In this case, the filter device 100 may receive power from the power transmission coil of the washing machine 10.

The control unit 191 can control various components of the filter device 100 (e.g., user interface device 197, cleaning motor 136, and communication unit 199). For example, the control unit 191 controls the communication unit 199 to establish communication with an external device, controls the output interface 197b to output predetermined information, or operates the cleaning motor 136 to perform a cleaning operation. You can control it.

The control unit 191 may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom, or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit 191 includes an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the filter device 100, at least one memory 191b (see FIG. 14) that stores data in the form of a program, and at least one memory ( It may include at least one processor 191a (see FIG. 14) that performs the above-described operation and the operation to be described later using the data stored in 191b). The memory 191b and the processor 191a may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor 191a may include one or two or more processor chips or one or two or more processing cores. The memory 191b may include one or two or more memory chips or one or two or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory 191b and the processor 191a may be implemented as a single chip.

The sensor connector 195 may be connected to at least one sensor 181 or 182 of the filter device 100 and receive a sensor signal detected by the at least one sensor 181 or 182.

The sensor signal received through the sensor connector 195 may be transmitted to the control unit 191.

For example, the sensor connector 195 may receive a sensor signal detected by the filter sensor 181. The filter sensor 181 may output a filter clogging signal in response to the fact that the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 is greater than a predetermined amount.

The control unit 191 may receive a filter blockage signal detected by the filter sensor 181 through the sensor connector 195.

According to various embodiments, the filter sensor 181 may transmit data regarding the amount of foreign substances collected in the filter 120 to the control unit 191 through the sensor connector 195.

The control unit 191 receives data on the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 from the filter sensor 181 through the sensor connector 195, and determines the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 based on processing the data. The amount can be determined. The control unit 191 may detect clogging of the filter 120 in response to determining that the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 is greater than a predetermined amount.

As another example, the sensor connector 195 may receive a sensor signal detected by the water sensor 182. The water sensor 182 may output a drain detection signal in response to detecting the inflow of water through the case inlet 112a.

The control unit 191 may receive a drain detection signal from the water supply sensor 182 through the sensor connector 195.

The motor connector 196 is connected to the cleaning motor 136 of the filter cleaning device 130 and can transmit an electrical signal to the cleaning motor 136.

The control unit 191 can control the cleaning motor 136 connected to the motor connector 196.

According to various embodiments, the electrical unit 190a may further include a current sensor 133 (see FIG. 14) that measures the driving current applied to the cleaning motor 136 through the motor connector 196.

The control unit 191 may determine the load of the cleaning motor 136 in response to processing data regarding the driving current applied to the cleaning motor 136.

The control unit 191 may detect clogging of the filter 120 based on the load of the cleaning motor 136. For example, the control unit 191 may detect clogging of the filter 120 in response to the load of the cleaning motor 136 becoming more than a preset load value for a predetermined period of time during the operation of the cleaning motor 136. .

That is, the control unit 191 may detect clogging of the filter 120 in response to the value of the driving current applied to the cleaning motor 136 being greater than or equal to the reference value for a predetermined period of time.

The input connector 197ac is connected to the input interface 197a (eg, button) and can receive an input signal generated by manipulating the input interface 197a.

For example, the input connector 197ac may be electrically connected to a power button, operation button, and/or communication button.

The input signal received through the input connector 197ac may be transmitted to the control unit 191.

As an example, a power signal generated in response to the power button being pressed may be transmitted to the control unit 191. The control unit 191 may supply power supplied by the power unit 192 to various components of the electric unit 190a in response to receiving the power signal.

As an example, an operation signal generated in response to an operation button being pressed may be transmitted to the control unit 191. The control unit 191 may drive the cleaning motor 136 in response to receiving an operation signal.

As an example, a communication signal generated in response to pressing a communication button may be transmitted to the control unit 191. The control unit 191 may activate the communication unit 199 in response to receiving a communication signal.

The output connector 197bc is connected to the output interface 197b and can transmit a control signal to the output interface 197b.

The control unit 191 can control the output interface 197b to output visualized information by sending a control signal to the output interface 197b through the output connector 197bc.

The communication unit 199 may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-distance communication module.

The communication unit 199 may transmit data to an external device (e.g., the washing machine 10, the server 2, the user device 3, and/or other home appliances) or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication unit 199 may establish communication with the washing machine 10, the server 2, the user device 3, and/or other home appliances, and transmit and receive various data.

To this end, the communication unit 199 may support the establishment of a direct (eg, wired) communication channel or wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication unit 199 is a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN)) may include a communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module is a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a legacy cellular network, 5G network, It can communicate with external devices through a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a telecommunication network such as a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into one component (e.g., a single chip) or may be implemented as a plurality of separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

The short-range wireless communication module includes a Bluetooth communication module, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, Near Field Communication module, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, Zigbee communication module, It may include, but is not limited to, an infrared data association (IrDA) communication module, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication module, an ultrawideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, and a microwave (uWave) communication module. no.

The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server 2 on a mobile communication network.

In one embodiment, the communication unit 199 may communicate with external devices such as the server 2, the user device 3, and other home appliances through a nearby access relay (AP: Access point). The access repeater (AP) may connect a local area network (LAN) to which the filter device 100, the washing machine 10, and/or the user device 3 are connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server 2 is connected. The filter device 100, washing machine 10 and/or user device 3 may be connected to the server 2 via a wide area network (WAN).

According to the present disclosure, the filter device 100 provided outside the washing machine housing 11 and connected to the drain device 70 of the washing machine 10 includes an electric unit 190a, so that it can perform various operations. .

Additionally, according to the present disclosure, the filter device 100 can exchange various information with an external device through the communication unit 199.

FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, and 12E show examples of various positions of electrical modules according to one embodiment.

The electrical module 190 according to one embodiment may be provided between the filter housing 101 and the filter case 110.

Referring to FIG. 12A, the electrical module 190 according to one embodiment may be located on the left side of the filter case 110. Accordingly, the electrical module 190 may be placed on the left side of the filter 120.

In one embodiment, as the electrical module 190 is provided on the left side of the filter case 110, the user interface device 197 may be provided on the left side of the filter housing 101.

The left side of the filter housing 101 may include an installation portion (eg, an opening) corresponding to the user interface device 197.

According to the present disclosure, when the right side of the filter device 100 is in contact with the washing machine 10, the user can easily manipulate the user interface device 197 or check information provided from the user interface device 197. .

Referring to FIG. 12B, the electrical module 190 according to one embodiment may be located on the right side of the filter case 110. Accordingly, the electrical module 190 may be placed on the right side of the filter 120.

In one embodiment, as the electrical module 190 is provided on the right side of the filter case 110, the user interface device 197 may be provided on the right side of the filter housing 101.

The right side of the filter housing 101 may include an installation portion corresponding to the user interface device 197.

According to the present disclosure, when the left side of the filter device 100 is in contact with the washing machine 10, the user can easily manipulate the user interface device 197 or check information provided from the user interface device 197. there is.

Referring to FIG. 12C, the electrical module 190 according to one embodiment may be located on the front side of the filter case 110. Accordingly, the electrical module 190 may be placed on the front side of the filter 120.

In one embodiment, as the electrical module 190 is provided on the front side of the filter case 110, the user interface device 197 may be provided on the front side of the filter housing 101.

According to various embodiments, as the electrical module 190 is provided on the front side of the filter case 110, the cover opening 103a formed to allow the filter 120 to pass through is shown in FIGS. 6 to 8. It can be placed below.

The front surface of the filter housing 101 may include an installation portion corresponding to the user interface device 197.

According to the present disclosure, when the left or right side of the filter device 100 is in contact with the washing machine 10, the user can easily manipulate the user interface device 197 or use information provided from the user interface device 197. You can check it.

Referring to FIG. 12D, the electrical module 190 according to one embodiment may be located at the rear of the filter case 110. Accordingly, the electrical module 190 may be placed behind the filter 120.

In one embodiment, as the electrical module 190 is provided at the rear of the filter case 110, the user interface device 197 may be provided at the rear of the filter housing 101.

The rear of the filter housing 101 may include an installation portion corresponding to the user interface device 197.

According to the present disclosure, as the electric module 190 is provided adjacent to the cleaning drive device 135, electrical connection between the electric module 190 and the cleaning drive device 135 is easy.

Referring to FIG. 12E, the electrical module 190 according to one embodiment may be located below the filter case 110. Accordingly, the electrical module 190 may be disposed below the filter 120.

In one embodiment, as the electrical module 190 is provided below the filter case 110, the user interface device 197 may be provided below the filter housing 101.

The lower surface of the filter housing 101 may include an installation portion corresponding to the user interface device 197.

According to the present disclosure, the appearance of the filter device 100 can be made simpler by preventing the appearance of the input interface 197a from entering the user's field of view.

According to various embodiments, the location of the electrical module 190 is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 and 12A to 12E.

Additionally, according to various embodiments, there may be a plurality of electrical modules 190, and each of the plurality of electrical modules may be provided at any one of the positions described in FIGS. 6 to 8 and 12A to 12E. .

For example, the electrical module 190 includes a first electrical module that is electrically connectable to the input interface 197a and/or the output interface 197b, and a second electrical module that is electrically connectable to the output interface 197b. It may include a module, and the first electrical module may be provided on the upper side of the filter case 110 and the second electrical module may be provided in front of the filter case 110.

According to the present disclosure, the degree of freedom in arranging the electrical configuration of the filter device 100 can be improved by arranging the electrical module 190 in various positions.

FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, and 13E show examples of various positions of the display panel of the filter device according to one embodiment.

The output interface 197b may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, and a light emitting diode (LED) module.

In one embodiment, the output interface 197b may include a display panel and/or at least one indicator.

According to various embodiments, the display panel and at least one indicator included in the output interface 197b may be provided on the same side of the filter housing 101, or may be provided on different sides of the filter housing 101. .

Referring to FIG. 13A, in one embodiment, the display panel 197b1 may be provided on the left side of the filter device 100. The display panel 197b1 may be provided on the left side of the filter housing 101.

For this purpose, the electrical module 190 may also be provided on the left side of the filter case 110, but the location of the electrical module 190 is not limited to this, and is a place where electrical connection with the display panel 197b1 is possible. The electrical module 190 can be installed anywhere.

The display panel 197b1 is provided on the left side of the filter device 100 and can output information about the status of the filter device 100.

According to the present disclosure, when the right side of the filter device 100 is in contact with the washing machine 10, the user can recognize various information by checking the left side of the filter device 100.

Referring to FIG. 13B, in one embodiment, the display panel 197b1 may be provided on the right side of the filter device 100. The display panel 197b1 may be provided on the right side of the filter housing 101.

For this purpose, the electrical module 190 may also be provided on the right side of the filter case 110, but the location of the electrical module 190 is not limited to this, and is a place where electrical connection with the display panel 197b1 is possible. The electrical module 190 can be installed anywhere.

The display panel 197b1 is provided on the right side of the filter device 100 and can output information about the status of the filter device 100.

According to the present disclosure, when the left side of the filter device 100 is in contact with the washing machine 10, the user can recognize various information by checking the right side of the filter device 100.

Referring to FIG. 13C, in one embodiment, the display panel 197b1 may be provided on the front of the filter device 100. The display panel 197b1 may be provided on the front of the filter housing 101.

For this purpose, the electrical module 190 may also be provided in front of the filter case 110, but the location of the electrical module 190 is not limited to this, and is a place where electrical connection with the display panel 197b1 is possible. The electrical module 190 can be installed anywhere.

The display panel 197b1 is provided on the front of the filter device 100 and can output information about the status of the filter device 100.

According to the present disclosure, a user can easily perceive various information in front of the filter device 100.

Referring to FIG. 13D, in one embodiment, the display panel 197b1 may be provided on the rear of the filter device 100. The display panel 197b1 may be provided on the rear of the filter housing 101.

For this purpose, the electrical module 190 may also be provided at the rear of the filter case 110, but the location of the electrical module 190 is not limited to this, and is a place where electrical connection with the display panel 197b1 is possible. The electrical module 190 can be installed anywhere.

The display panel 197b1 is provided on the rear of the filter device 100 and can output information about the status of the filter device 100.

According to the present disclosure, the user can easily perceive various information while the rear of the filter device 100 can be easily observed.

Referring to FIG. 13E, in one embodiment, the display panel 197b1 may be provided on the lower surface of the filter device 100. The display panel 197b1 may be provided on the lower surface of the filter housing 101.

For this purpose, the electrical module 190 may also be provided on the lower side of the filter case 110, but the location of the electrical module 190 is not limited to this, and is a place where electrical connection with the display panel 197b1 is possible. The electrical module 190 can be installed anywhere.

The display panel 197b1 is provided on the lower surface of the filter device 100 and can output information about the status of the filter device 100.

According to the present disclosure, a user can easily perceive various information while the lower surface of the filter device 100 can be easily observed.

According to various embodiments, the position of the display panel 197b1 is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 and 13A to 13E.

Additionally, according to various embodiments, there may be a plurality of display panels 197b1, and each of the plurality of display panels 197b1 may be provided at any one of the positions described in FIGS. 6 to 8 and 13A to 13E. there is.

According to the present disclosure, the user's needs according to the installation environment of the filter device 100 can be satisfied by arranging the display panel 197b1 in various positions.

Figure 14 is a control block diagram of a filter device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 14, the filter device 100 includes a user interface device 197, a filter cleaning device 130, an opening and closing device 140, a sensor unit 180, a communication unit 199, and a control unit ( 191) may be included.

Descriptions that overlap with the above description for each component of the filter device 100 will be omitted.

The sensor unit 180 may include a filter sensor 181 and a water supply sensor 182, and data and/or information obtained by the sensor unit 180 may be transmitted to the control unit 191.

The communication unit 199 may transmit information obtained by the filter device 100 to an external device. For example, the communication unit 199 may transmit information obtained by the filter device 100 to at least one of the washing machine 10 or the user device 3.

Transmitting the information acquired by the filter device 100 to at least one of the washing machine 10 or the user device 3 means transmitting the information obtained by the filter device 100 to the In addition to directly transmitting to the washing machine 10 or the user device 3, the information obtained by the filter device 100 is transmitted to at least one of the washing machine 10 or the user device 3 through the server 2. may include

Information acquired by the filter device 100 may include information acquired by the sensor unit 180 and/or information obtained through the communication unit 199.

The information acquired by the filter device 100 is the information obtained by the filter sensor 181, the information obtained by the water sensor 182, the information obtained by the current sensor 133, and/or the communication unit 199. It may include information obtained from an external device.

The control unit 191 may control the communication unit 199 to transmit the information acquired by the filter device 100 to an external device in response to the fact that the information obtained by the filter device 100 satisfies a predetermined condition. .

In one embodiment, the control unit 191 may perform an operation corresponding to the control command in response to receiving a control command from an external device through the communication unit 199.

Figure 15 is a control block diagram of a washing machine, a filter device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 15, the communication system of the filter device 100 according to one embodiment may include the filter device 100 and the washing machine 10.

According to various embodiments, the communication system of the filter device 100 may further include a server 2 and a user device 3.

Descriptions of the configuration of the filter device 100 and the washing machine 10 are omitted because they are redundant.

The server 2 according to one embodiment may include a control unit 210 and a communication unit 220 that control the operation of the server 2. The control unit 210 includes at least one memory 210b that stores various information such as an algorithm for controlling the operation of the components of the server 2, data in the form of a program, and information on the user device 3. It may include at least one processor 210a that performs the above-described operation and the later-described operation using data stored in the memory 210b.

The communication unit 220 may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-distance communication module.

The user device 3 according to an embodiment may include a control unit 310 that controls the operation of the user device 3, a communication unit 320, and a user interface device 330. The control unit 310 includes at least one memory 310b that stores various information such as an algorithm for controlling the operation of the components of the user device 3, data in the form of a program, and information on the user device 3. It may include at least one processor 310a that performs the above-described operation and the later-described operation using data stored in the memory 310b.

The user device 3 may include various electronic devices such as, for example, a smartphone, a notebook, a laptop, or a smart watch.

The communication unit 320 may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-distance communication module.

The user interface device 330 may include an input interface 330a and an output interface 330b.

The input interface 330a can convert sensory information received from the user into an electrical signal.

The output interface 330b can deliver various information to the user by generating sensory information.

The filter device 100, the washing machine 10, the server 2, and/or the user device 3 may send or receive information to each other through the respective communication units 96, 199, 220, and 320.

A detailed method by which the filter device 100, washing machine 10, server 2, and/or user device 3 transmits or receives information to each other through the respective communication units 96, 199, 220, and 320 will be described later.

According to various embodiments, a user may register user account information on the server 2 through the user device 3. User account information may include user identification information and/or information about the user's home appliance.

According to various embodiments, at least one memory 210b of the server 2 may store user account information received from the user device 3.

Information about various devices (e.g., washing machine 10, filter device 100) linked to the user's account may be stored in at least one memory 210b, and the user can use the user device 3 to You can control various devices linked to your account or receive information collected from various devices linked to your account.

As an example, the user runs an application for managing home appliances through the user device 3, then connects to the user's account and sends various control commands to home appliances linked to the account, or sends various control commands to home appliances linked to the account. You can receive various information from.

Figure 16 shows an example of communication established between a washing machine, a filter device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment.

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10, the filter device 100, and the user device 3 may exchange information with each other via the server 2 through a wide area network (WAN).

Referring to FIG. 16, an access point device (Wireless access point apparatus) 4 may be provided with a slot that can be connected to a wired communication cable, and may transmit and receive data to and from the server 2 through a wired communication cable.

The washing machine 10 may establish communication with the access point device 4 through the communication unit 96 (e.g., a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module).

The washing machine 10 may communicate with the server 2 over the wide area network in response to communication being established with the access point device 4 .

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 may transmit identification information to identify the washing machine 10 to the server 2. Identification information for identifying the washing machine 10 may be stored in the memory 92, including the serial number of the washing machine 10, the Internet Protocol address (IP address) of the washing machine 10, and the washing machine 10. ) may include at least one of the MAC addresses.

The filter device 100 may establish communication with the access point device 4 through the communication unit 199 (e.g., WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module).

Filter device 100 may communicate with server 2 over a wide area network in response to communication being established with access point device 4.

In one embodiment, the filter device 100 may transmit identification information for identifying the filter device 100 to the server 2. Identification information for identifying the filter device 100 may be stored in the memory 191b, including the serial number of the filter device 100, the Internet Protocol address (IP address, Internet Protocol address) of the filter device 100, It may include at least one of the MAC addresses of the filter device 100.

The communication unit 320 (e.g., a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module) of the user device 3 may establish communication with the access point device 4 and thereby communicate with the server 2 over the wide area network. .

According to various embodiments, the communication unit 320 (eg, cellular communication module) of the user device 3 may communicate with the server 2 through a wide area network without connection to the access point device 4.

After the user executes a predetermined application through the user device 3, communication between the user device 3 and the server 2 may be established in response to accessing the user account.

According to various embodiments, the server 2 may connect the washing machine 10 and/or the filter device 100 via the access point device 4 in response to establishing communication between the user device 3 and the server 2. You can send a communication request message to.

The washing machine 10 may transmit information to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 through the server 2.

For example, the washing machine 10 can transmit predetermined information to the server 2, and the server 2 can transmit predetermined information to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3.

The filter device 100 may transmit information to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 through the server 2.

For example, the filter device 100 can transmit predetermined information to the server 2, and the server 2 can transmit predetermined information to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3.

The user device 3 may transmit information to the washing machine 10 and/or the filter device 100 through the server 2.

For example, the user device 3 can transmit predetermined information to the server 2, and the server 2 can transmit predetermined information to the washing machine 10 and/or the filter device 100. At this time, the predetermined information may include a control command.

According to the present disclosure, the filter device 100, the washing machine 10, and/or the user device 3 can send or receive various types of information through the server 2.

Figures 17a and 17b show an example of communication established between a washing machine, a filter device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment.

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 and/or the filter device 100 may establish communication with each other through communication units 96 and 199 (e.g., Bluetooth communication module, BLE communication module), and the washing machine 10 and /Or the filter device 100 may establish communication with the server 2 through the access point device 4 by means of a communication unit 96 or 199 (e.g., a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module).

Referring to FIG. 17A, the washing machine 10 and/or the filter device 100 may establish communication with each other through communication units 96 and 199 (e.g., Bluetooth communication module, BLE communication module).

That is, the filter device 100 can be paired with the communication unit 96 (e.g., Bluetooth communication module, BLE communication module) of the washing machine 10 through the communication unit 199 (e.g., Bluetooth communication module, BLE communication module). .

In one embodiment, the communication unit 96 of the washing machine 10 includes a first communication module (e.g., Bluetooth communication module, BLE communication module) and an access point device 4 for communicating with the communication unit 199 of the filter device 100. ) may include a second communication module (e.g., WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module) for communicating with the server 2.

On the other hand, the communication unit 199 of the filter device 100 may include only a first communication module for communicating with the communication unit 96 of the washing machine 10.

The washing machine 10 can transmit information to the user device 3 through the server 2.

For example, the washing machine 10 may transmit predetermined information to the server 2 through a second network (e.g., wide area network), and the server 2 may transmit predetermined information to the user device (2) through the second network. 3) It can be forwarded to. At this time, the predetermined information may be information obtained by the filter device 100.

The filter device 100 can transmit information to the user device 3 through the washing machine 10 and the server 2. That is, the filter device 100 can transmit predetermined information to the user device 3 via the washing machine 10.

For example, the filter device 100 may transmit predetermined information to the washing machine 10 through a first network (e.g., Bluetooth communication network and/or BLE communication network), and the washing machine 10 may communicate with the second network. Predetermined information can be transmitted to the server 2 through the second network, and the server 2 can transmit certain information to the user device 3 through the second network.

The user device 3 can transmit information to the filter device 100 through the server 2 and the washing machine 10. That is, the filter device 100 can receive predetermined information from the user device 3 via the washing machine 10.

For example, the user device 3 may transmit predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network, and the server 2 may transmit predetermined information to the washing machine 10 through the second network. , the washing machine 10 can transmit predetermined information to the filter device 100 through the first network.

According to the present disclosure, even if the filter device 100 is not equipped with a communication module for using the second network, it is possible to exchange information with the user device 3.

Referring to FIG. 17B, the washing machine 10 and/or the filter device 100 may establish communication with each other through communication units 96 and 199 (e.g., Bluetooth communication module, BLE communication module).

That is, the filter device 100 can be paired with the communication unit 96 (e.g., Bluetooth communication module, BLE communication module) of the washing machine 10 through the communication unit 199 (e.g., Bluetooth communication module, BLE communication module). .

In one embodiment, the communication unit 199 of the filter device 100 includes a first communication module (e.g., Bluetooth communication module, BLE communication module) and an access point device 4 for communicating with the communication unit 96 of the washing machine 10. ) may include a second communication module (e.g., WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module) for communicating with the server 2.

On the other hand, the communication unit 96 of the washing machine 10 may include only a first communication module for communicating with the communication unit 199 of the filter device 100.

The filter device 100 can transmit information to the user device 3 through the server 2.

For example, the filter device 100 may transmit predetermined information to the server 2 through a second network (e.g., wide area network), and the server 2 may transmit predetermined information to the user device through the second network. It can be delivered to (3). At this time, the predetermined information may be information obtained by the filter device 100.

The washing machine 10 can transmit information to the user device 3 through the filter device 100 and the server 2. That is, the washing machine 10 can transmit predetermined information to the user device 3 via the filter device 100.

For example, the washing machine 10 may transmit predetermined information to the filter device 100 through a first network (e.g., Bluetooth communication network and/or BLE communication network), and the filter device 100 may transmit predetermined information to the filter device 100 through the second network. Predetermined information can be transmitted to the server 2 through , and the server 2 can transmit certain information to the user device 3 through the second network.

The user device 3 can transmit information to the washing machine 10 through the server 2 and the filter device 100. That is, the washing machine 10 can receive predetermined information from the user device 3 via the filter device 100.

For example, the user device 3 may transmit predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network, and the server 2 may transmit predetermined information to the filter device 100 through the second network. In addition, the filter device 100 can transmit predetermined information to the washing machine 10 through the first network.

According to the present disclosure, even if the washing machine 10 is not equipped with a communication module for using the second network, it can exchange information with the user device 3.

Figures 18a and 18b show an example of communication established between a washing machine, a filter device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment.

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 and/or the filter device 100 may establish wired communication through the communication units 96 and 199 (e.g., a wired communication module), and the washing machine 10 and/or the filter device 100 may establish communication with the server 2 through the access point device 4 by means of a communication unit 96 or 199 (e.g., a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module).

Referring to FIG. 18A, the washing machine 10 and/or the filter device 100 may establish communication with each other through communication units 96 and 199 (eg, wired communication modules).

That is, the filter device 100 and the washing machine 10 can be connected to each other by wires.

In one embodiment, the communication unit 96 of the washing machine 10 includes a third communication module (e.g., a wired communication module) and an access point device 4 for wired communication with the communication unit 199 of the filter device 100. It may include a second communication module (e.g., WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module) for communicating with the server 2.

On the other hand, the communication unit 199 of the filter device 100 may include only a third communication module for wired communication with the communication unit 96 of the washing machine 10.

The washing machine 10 can transmit information to the user device 3 through the server 2.

For example, the washing machine 10 may transmit predetermined information to the server 2 through a second network (e.g., wide area network), and the server 2 may transmit predetermined information to the user device (2) through the second network. 3) It can be forwarded to. At this time, the predetermined information may be information obtained by the filter device 100.

The filter device 100 can transmit information to the user device 3 through the washing machine 10 and the server 2. That is, the filter device 100 can transmit predetermined information to the user device 3 via the washing machine 10.

For example, the filter device 100 can transmit predetermined information to the washing machine 10 through a wired communication network, and the washing machine 10 can transmit predetermined information to the server 2 through a second network. , the server 2 may transmit predetermined information to the user device 3 through the second network.

The user device 3 can transmit information to the filter device 100 through the server 2 and the washing machine 10. That is, the filter device 100 can receive predetermined information from the user device 3 via the washing machine 10.

For example, the user device 3 may transmit predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network, and the server 2 may transmit predetermined information to the washing machine 10 through the second network. , the washing machine 10 can transmit predetermined information to the filter device 100 through a wired communication network.

According to the present disclosure, even if the filter device 100 is not equipped with a communication module for using the second network, it can exchange information with the user device 3 through a wired communication network.

Referring to FIG. 18B, the washing machine 10 and/or the filter device 100 may establish wired communication with each other through communication units 96 and 199 (eg, wired communication modules).

That is, the filter device 100 and the washing machine 10 may be connected to each other by wire.

In one embodiment, the communication unit 199 of the filter device 100 is connected to the server through a third communication module (e.g., a wired communication module) and an access point device 4 for communicating with the communication unit 96 of the washing machine 10. (2) It may include a second communication module (e.g., WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module) for communicating with.

On the other hand, the communication unit 96 of the washing machine 10 may include only a third communication module for communicating with the communication unit 199 of the filter device 100.

The filter device 100 can transmit information to the user device 3 through the server 2.

For example, the filter device 100 may transmit predetermined information to the server 2 through a second network (e.g., wide area network), and the server 2 may transmit predetermined information to the user device through the second network. It can be delivered to (3). At this time, the predetermined information may be information obtained by the filter device 100.

The washing machine 10 can transmit information to the user device 3 through the filter device 100 and the server 2. That is, the washing machine 10 can transmit predetermined information to the user device 3 via the filter device 100.

For example, the washing machine 10 can transmit predetermined information to the filter device 100 through a wired communication network, and the filter device 100 can transmit predetermined information to the server 2 through a second network. And the server 2 can transmit predetermined information to the user device 3 through the second network.

The user device 3 can transmit information to the washing machine 10 through the server 2 and the filter device 100. That is, the washing machine 10 can receive predetermined information from the user device 3 via the filter device 100.

For example, the user device 3 may transmit predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network, and the server 2 may transmit predetermined information to the filter device 100 through the second network. In addition, the filter device 100 can transmit predetermined information to the washing machine 10 through a wired communication network.

According to the present disclosure, even if the washing machine 10 is not equipped with a communication module for using the second network, it can exchange information with the user device 3 through wired communication.

Figure 19 shows a washing machine and a filter device connected by wire, according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 19, the filter device 100 may include a connector 108 for communication with the user device 3 and a power cable 109 for receiving power from an external power source.

According to various embodiments, the connector 108 may be connected to the washing machine 10.

By connecting the connector 108 to the washing machine 10, wired communication between the filter device 100 and the washing machine 10 can be established.

In one embodiment, the communication units 96 and 199 may include a wired communication module to form a wired communication network.

According to various embodiments, the power cable 109 may be connected to an outlet or connected to the washing machine 10.

When the power cable 109 is connected to the washing machine 10, the filter device 100 can receive power from the power supply device of the washing machine 10.

When the power cable 109 is connected to an outlet, the filter device 100 can receive external power.

Figure 20 shows a connection formed in a washing machine according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 20, the washing machine 10 according to one embodiment may include a communication socket 108a and/or a power socket 109a.

The communication socket 108a and/or the power socket 109a may be installed in a hole provided at the rear of the washing machine 10, and the hole may be opened and closed by the cover 109b.

According to various embodiments, the communication socket 108a and/or the power socket 109a may be provided in the washing machine housing 11.

As an example, the communication socket 108a and/or the power socket 109a may be provided at the rear of the washing machine housing 11.

When the connector 108 is inserted into the communication socket 108a, a wired communication network can be formed between the filter device 100 and the washing machine 10.

That is, when the connector 108 is inserted into the communication socket 108a, the communication unit 96 of the washing machine 10 and the communication unit 199 of the filter device 100 can exchange various information with each other by wire.

When the power cable 109 is inserted into the power socket 109a, the filter device 100 can receive power from the washing machine 10.

That is, when the power cable 109 is inserted into the power socket 109a, the power supply device of the washing machine 10 can supply power to the filter device 100.

According to the present disclosure, a separate outlet for supplying power to the filter device 100 is not required, thereby improving user convenience.

Additionally, according to the present disclosure, the filter device 100 and the washing machine 10 can exchange information with each other through wired communication.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which a filter device transmits a drain detection signal to a washing machine and/or a user device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 21, an exemplary process of a method 1100 in which the filter device 100 transmits a drain detection signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 according to an embodiment can be confirmed.

The filter device 100 according to one embodiment can detect the inflow of water (1110).

When the drain device of the washing machine 10 operates, water may flow into the housing inlet 102a and the case inlet 112a through the drain hose 74 of the washing machine 10.

The water sensor 182 can detect the inflow of water through the case inlet 112a.

The water sensor 182 may transmit a detection signal to the control unit 191 based on the detection of the inflow of water through the case inlet 112a.

The filter device 100 may transmit a drain detection signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 in response to the inflow of water being detected by the water supply sensor 182 (1120).

The fact that the filter device 100 transmits a drain detection signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 means that the drain detection signal transmitted from the filter device 100 is ultimately transmitted to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3. Includes those received by (3).

The control unit 191 may control the communication unit 199 to transmit a drain detection signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 in response to receiving a detection signal from the water supply sensor.

The drain detection signal may include information that draining of the washing machine 10 has been detected and/or information that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has been detected.

Referring to FIG. 16, the filter device 100 may transmit a drain detection signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 via the server 2.

For example, the filter device 100 may transmit a drainage detection signal to the server 2 through a second network (e.g., a wide area network), and the server 2 may receive the drainage detection signal from the filter device 100. In response to this, a drain detection signal may be transmitted to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 through the second network.

Referring to FIG. 17A, the filter device 100 can transmit a drain detection signal to the user device 3 via the washing machine 10 and the server 2, and can transmit a D2D (Device to Device) signal without going through the server 2. A drain detection signal can be transmitted directly to the washing machine 10 through device) communication.

In one embodiment, the filter device 100 may transmit a drain detection signal to the washing machine 10 through a first network (eg, a Bluetooth communication network and/or a BLE communication network).

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 may transmit the drain detection signal to the server 2 through the second network in response to receiving the drain detection signal from the filter device 100 through the first network, and the server ( 2) may transmit the drain detection signal to the user device 3 through the second network in response to receiving the drain detection signal from the washing machine 10.

Referring to FIG. 17b, the filter device 100 can transmit a drainage detection signal to the user device 3 via the server 2, and through D2D (Device to Device) communication rather than via the server 2. A drain detection signal can be directly transmitted to the washing machine 10.

In one embodiment, the filter device 100 may transmit a drain detection signal to the washing machine 10 through a first network (eg, a Bluetooth communication network and/or a BLE communication network).

In one embodiment, the filter device 100 may transmit a drain detection signal to the server 2 through a second network, and the server 2 may provide a drain detection signal in response to receiving the drain detection signal from the filter device 100. 2 A drain detection signal can be transmitted to the user device 3 through the network.

Referring to FIG. 18A, the filter device 100 can transmit a drain detection signal to the user device 3 via the washing machine 10 and the server 2, and can transmit a D2D (Device to Device) signal without going through the server 2. A drain detection signal can be transmitted directly to the washing machine 10 through device) communication.

In one embodiment, the filter device 100 may transmit a drain detection signal to the washing machine 10 through a third network (eg, a wired communication network).

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 may transmit the drain detection signal to the server 2 through the second network in response to receiving the drain detection signal from the filter device 100 through the third network, and the server ( 2) may transmit the drain detection signal to the user device 3 through the second network in response to receiving the drain detection signal from the washing machine 10.

According to the present disclosure, even if the filter device 100 is not equipped with a module for Internet network communication, information about the washing machine 10 can be transmitted to the user device 3.

Referring to FIG. 18b, the filter device 100 can transmit a drainage detection signal to the user device 3 via the server 2, and through D2D (Device to Device) communication rather than via the server 2. A drain detection signal can be directly transmitted to the washing machine 10.

In one embodiment, the filter device 100 may transmit a drain detection signal to the washing machine 10 through a third network (eg, a wired communication network).

In one embodiment, the filter device 100 may transmit a drain detection signal to the server 2 through a second network, and the server 2 may provide a drain detection signal in response to receiving the drain detection signal from the filter device 100. 2 A drain detection signal can be transmitted to the user device 3 through the network.

According to various embodiments, the washing machine 10, the filter device 100, and/or the user device 3 may output drainage information (1130).

The drain information may include information that the washing machine 10 is draining and/or information that water is flowing into the filter device 100.

FIG. 22 shows an example of how multiple information is output to the filter device 100 according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 22, the filter device 100 may output drainage information in response to the inflow of water being detected by the water supply sensor 182.

For example, the control unit 191 outputs information that the washing machine 10 is draining and/or information that water is flowing into the filter device 100 in response to receiving a detection signal from the water supply sensor. 197b) can be controlled.

The output interface 197b may include a display, and outputs information that the washing machine 10 is draining and/or information that water is flowing into the filter device 100 by displaying the information that the washing machine 10 is draining. It may include displaying a visual indicator indicating that water is flowing and/or a visual indicator indicating that water is flowing into the filter device 100.

In the present disclosure, the visual indicator may include any means that can convey visualized information such as text, shapes, icons, animations, etc.

That is, in response to receiving a detection signal from the water sensor, the control unit 191 displays a visual indicator indicating that the washing machine 10 is draining and/or a visual indicator indicating that water is flowing into the filter device 100. The output interface 197b can be controlled to do so.

As another example, the output interface 197b may include at least one indicator lamp, and outputs information that the washing machine 10 is draining and/or information that water is flowing into the filter device 100. This may include turning on or blinking an indicator lamp corresponding to a multiple among one indicator lamp.

That is, the control unit 191 may control the output interface 197b to turn on or blink an indicator lamp corresponding to the water drain in response to receiving a detection signal from the water supply sensor.

Figure 23 shows an example of how drain information is output to a washing machine according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 23, the washing machine 10 may output drainage information in response to receiving a drainage detection signal from the filter device 100.

For example, the control unit 90 uses the output interface 17 to output information that water is flowing into the filter device 100 in response to receiving a drain detection signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 96. can be controlled.

The output interface 17 may include a display, and outputting information that water is flowing into the filter device 100 may display a visual indicator on the display indicating that water is flowing into the filter device 100. may include

That is, the control unit 90 outputs the output interface 17 to display a visual indicator indicating that water is flowing into the filter device 100 in response to receiving a drain detection signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 96. ) can be controlled.

As another example, the output interface 17 may include at least one indicator lamp, and outputting information that water is flowing into the filter device 100 is performed by selecting an indicator lamp corresponding to drainage among the at least one indicator lamp. It may include lighting or flashing.

That is, the control unit 90 may control the output interface 17 to turn on or blink an indicator lamp corresponding to the drainage in response to receiving a drainage detection signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 96. .

Figure 24 shows an example of multiple information being output to a user device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 24, the user device 3 may output drainage information in response to receiving a drainage detection signal from the filter device 100.

For example, in response to receiving a drain detection signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 320, the control unit 310 provides information that the washing machine 10 is draining and/or that water is in the filter device 100. The output interface 330b can be controlled to output information indicating inflow.

The output interface 330b may include a display, and outputs information that the washing machine 10 is draining and/or information that water is flowing into the filter device 100 on the display. It may include displaying a visual indicator indicating that water is flowing and/or that water is flowing into the filter device 100.

That is, in response to receiving a drain detection signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 320, the control unit 310 indicates that the washing machine 10 is draining and/or that water is flowing into the filter device 100. The output interface 330b can be controlled to display a visual indicator notifying that there is.

As another example, the output interface 330b may include at least one indicator lamp, and may output information to the filter device 100 that the washing machine 10 is draining and/or that water is flowing in. This may include turning on or blinking an indicator lamp corresponding to a multiple among one indicator lamp.

That is, the control unit 310 may control the output interface 330b to turn on or blink an indicator lamp corresponding to the drainage in response to receiving a drainage detection signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 320. .

According to the present disclosure, the filter device 100 transmits a drain detection signal to an external device (e.g., the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3) in response to detecting the inflow of water, so that the filter device 100 Information about the status of can be easily notified to the user.

Referring again to FIG. 21, the filter device 100 may operate the filter cleaning device 130 in response to detecting the inflow of water (1140).

The control unit 191 may drive the cleaning motor 136 in response to the inflow of water being detected by the water sensor 182.

According to various embodiments, the control unit 191 may control the opening and closing device 140 to close the connector 118 in response to the inflow of water being detected by the water sensor 182.

According to the present disclosure, the filtering effect of the filter device 100 can be improved by operating the filter cleaning device 130 while water flows into the filter device 100.

According to various embodiments, the control unit 191 may drive the cleaning motor 136 after a predetermined time has elapsed in response to the start of the inflow of water being detected by the water supply sensor 182.

According to the present disclosure, energy efficiency can be achieved by operating the filter cleaning device 130 after the inside of the filter device 100 is filled with water to a certain extent.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which a filter device transmits a drain stop signal to a washing machine and/or a user device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 25, an exemplary process of a method 1200 in which the filter device 100 transmits a drain stop signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 according to an embodiment can be confirmed.

The filter device 100 according to one embodiment may detect a cessation of water inflow (1210).

When the drain device of the washing machine 10 stops operating, water no longer flows into the housing inlet 102a and the case inlet 112a through the drain hose 74 of the washing machine 10.

The water sensor 182 can detect interruption of the inflow of water through the case inlet 112a.

The water sensor 182 may transmit an interruption detection signal to the control unit 191 based on the detection of interruption in the inflow of water through the case inlet 112a.

The filter device 100 may transmit a drain interruption signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 in response to the interruption of water inflow being detected by the water supply sensor 182 (1220).

The filter device 100 transmitting a drain stop signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 means that the drain stop signal transmitted from the filter device 100 is ultimately transmitted to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3. Includes those received by (3).

The control unit 191 may control the communication unit 199 to transmit a drain stop signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 in response to receiving a stop detection signal from the water supply sensor.

The drain stop signal may include information that draining of the washing machine 10 has been stopped (or completed) and/or information that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has been stopped (or completed).

The method by which the control unit 191 transmits a drain stop signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 is the same as the method in operation 1120, so detailed description is omitted.

According to various embodiments, the washing machine 10, the filter device 100, and/or the user device 3 may output drain interruption information (1230).

The drain interruption information may include information that draining of the washing machine 10 has been stopped and/or information that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has been stopped.

Figure 26 shows an example of how drainage interruption information is output to a filter device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 26, the filter device 100 may output drainage interruption information in response to the interruption of water inflow being detected by the water supply sensor 182.

For example, in response to receiving a stop detection signal from the water sensor 182, the control unit 191 provides information that draining of the washing machine 10 has stopped and/or information that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has stopped. The output interface 197b can be controlled to output.

The output interface 197b may include a display, and outputting information that draining of the washing machine 10 has stopped and/or information that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has stopped is displayed on the display. It may include displaying a visual indicator indicating that drainage has been completed and/or a visual indicator indicating that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has stopped.

That is, in response to receiving an interruption detection signal from the water sensor, the control unit 191 provides a visual indicator indicating that draining of the washing machine 10 has been completed and/or a visual indicator indicating that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has been stopped. The output interface 197b can be controlled to display.

As another example, the output interface 197b may include at least one indicator lamp, and outputs information that draining of the washing machine 10 has stopped and/or information that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has stopped. This may include turning off an indicator lamp corresponding to a multiple among at least one indicator lamp.

That is, the control unit 191 may control the output interface 197b so that the indicator lamp corresponding to the water drain is turned off in response to receiving a detection signal from the water supply sensor.

Figure 27 shows an example of drain interruption information being output to a washing machine according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 27, the washing machine 10 may output drain interruption information in response to receiving a drain interruption signal from the filter device 100.

For example, the control unit 90 uses the output interface 17 to output information that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has been stopped in response to receiving a drain stop signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 96. can be controlled.

The output interface 17 may include a display, and outputting information that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has stopped displays a visual indicator on the display indicating that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has stopped. It may include:

That is, the control unit 90 provides an output interface ( 17) can be controlled.

As another example, the output interface 17 may include at least one indicator lamp, and outputting information that water is flowing into the filter device 100 is performed by selecting an indicator lamp corresponding to drainage among the at least one indicator lamp. This may include turning it off.

That is, the control unit 90 may control the output interface 17 so that the indicator lamp corresponding to the drainage is turned off in response to receiving a drainage stop signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 96.

FIG. 28 illustrates an example of drain interruption information being output to a user device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 28, the user device 3 may output drainage information in response to receiving a drainage stop signal from the filter device 100.

For example, in response to receiving a drain stop signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 320, the control unit 310 provides information that draining of the washing machine 10 has been stopped and/or the flow of water to the filter device 100. The output interface 330b can be controlled to output information that the inflow has stopped.

The output interface 330b may include a display, and outputting information that draining of the washing machine 10 has stopped and/or information that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has stopped is displayed on the display. It may include displaying a visual indicator indicating that drainage has been completed and/or a visual indicator indicating that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has stopped.

That is, in response to receiving a drain stop signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 320, the control unit 310 provides a visual indicator and/or a visual indicator indicating that draining of the washing machine 10 has been completed and/or a signal to the filter device 100. The output interface 330b can be controlled to display a visual indicator indicating that the inflow of water has stopped.

As another example, the output interface 330b may include at least one indicator lamp, providing information to the filter device 100 that draining of the washing machine 10 has stopped and/or that the inflow of water into the filter device 100 has stopped. Outputting the information that it has been done may include turning off an indicator lamp corresponding to a multiple among at least one indicator lamp.

That is, the control unit 310 may control the output interface 330b so that the indicator lamp corresponding to the drainage is turned off in response to receiving a drainage stop signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 320.

According to the present disclosure, the filter device 100 transmits a drain interruption signal to an external device (e.g., the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3) in response to detecting the cessation of water inflow, thereby providing the filter device ( Information about the status of 100) can be easily notified to the user.

Referring again to FIG. 25, the filter device 100 may stop the operation of the filter cleaning device 130 in response to detecting the inflow of water (1240).

The control unit 191 may stop driving the cleaning motor 136 in response to detection of an interruption in the inflow of water by the water supply sensor 182.

According to various embodiments, the control unit 191 may control the opening/closing device 140 to open the connector 118 in response to detection of an interruption in the inflow of water by the water sensor 182.

According to the present disclosure, energy efficiency can be achieved by stopping the operation of the filter cleaning device 130 when the inflow of water into the filter device 100 is stopped.

Figure 29 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which a filter device transmits a filter clogging signal to a washing machine and/or a user device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 29, an exemplary process of a method 1300 in which the filter device 100 transmits a filter clogging signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 according to an embodiment can be confirmed.

The filter device 100 according to one embodiment may detect blockage of the filter 120 (1310).

When the washing machine 10 performs multiple cycles, a large amount of foreign substances may be collected in the filter 120.

The filter sensor 181 can detect the amount of foreign substances collected in the filter 120.

For example, the filter sensor 181 may output a filter clogging signal in response to the fact that the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 is greater than a predetermined amount.

The control unit 191 may detect blockage of the filter 120 in response to receiving a filter blockage signal from the filter sensor 181.

As another example, the filter sensor 181 may transmit data regarding the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 to the control unit 191, and the control unit 191 may transmit data regarding the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120. In response to processing the data, it may be determined that the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 is greater than a predetermined amount, and in response to determining that the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 is greater than the predetermined amount, the filter Blockage of (120) can be detected.

In one embodiment, the control unit 191 may detect clogging of the filter 120 based on the load of the cleaning motor 136.

For example, the control unit 191 may detect clogging of the filter 120 in response to the fact that the load of the cleaning motor 136 exceeds a preset load value for a predetermined period of time during the operation of the cleaning motor 136. .

The filter device 100 may transmit a filter blockage signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 in response to detecting blockage of the filter 120 (1320).

The control unit 191 may control the communication unit 199 to transmit a filter blockage signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 in response to detecting blockage of the filter 120.

The fact that the filter device 100 transmits a filter blockage signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 means that the filter blockage signal transmitted from the filter device 100 is ultimately transmitted to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3. Includes those received by (3).

The filter clogged signal may include information that the filter 120 is clogged.

The method by which the control unit 191 transmits a filter blockage signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 is the same as the method in operation 1120, so detailed description is omitted.

According to various embodiments, the washing machine 10, the filter device 100, and/or the user device 3 may output filter clogging information (1330).

The filter clogging information may include information that the filter 120 of the filter device 100 is clogged.

Figure 30 shows an example of filter clogging information being output to a filter device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 30, the filter device 100 may output filter clogging information in response to detecting clogging of the filter 120.

For example, the control unit 191 may control the output interface 197b to output information that the filter 120 is clogged in response to receiving a filter clogging signal from the filter sensor 181.

As another example, the control unit 191 determines whether the filter 120 is clogged in response to processing the data received from the filter sensor 181, and determines whether the filter 120 is clogged. The output interface 197b can be controlled to output information that is blocked.

As another example, the control unit 191 detects clogging of the filter 120 in response to the load of the cleaning motor 136 becoming more than a preset load value for a predetermined period of time during operation of the cleaning motor 136, and the filter 191 detects clogging of the filter 120. The output interface 197b may be controlled to output information that the filter 120 is blocked in response to detecting that the filter 120 is blocked.

The output interface 197b may include a display, and outputting information that the filter 120 is clogged may include displaying a visual indicator on the display indicating that the filter 120 is clogged.

As another example, the output interface 197b may include at least one indicator lamp, and outputting information that the filter 120 is blocked includes turning on an indicator lamp corresponding to filter blockage among the at least one indicator lamp, or May include flashing.

Figure 31 shows an example of filter clogging information being output to a washing machine according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 31, the washing machine 10 may output filter clogging information in response to receiving a filter clogging signal from the filter device 100.

For example, the control unit 90 uses the output interface 17 to output information that water is flowing into the filter device 100 in response to receiving a filter blockage signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 96. can be controlled.

The output interface 17 may include a display, and outputting information that the filter device 100 is clogged may include displaying a visual indicator on the display indicating that the filter device 100 is clogged.

That is, the control unit 90 outputs the output interface 17 to display a visual indicator indicating that water is flowing into the filter device 100 in response to receiving a filter clogging signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 96. ) can be controlled.

As another example, the output interface 17 may include at least one indicator lamp, and outputting information that the filter is clogged means turning on or blinking an indicator lamp corresponding to the filter clog among the at least one indicator lamp. It can be included.

That is, the control unit 90 may control the output interface 17 to turn on or flash an indicator lamp corresponding to filter blockage in response to receiving a filter blockage signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 96. there is.

Figure 32 shows an example of filter clogging information being output to a user device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 32, the user device 3 may output filter clogging information in response to receiving a filter clogging signal from the filter device 100.

For example, the control unit 310 may control the output interface 330b to output information that the filter 120 is clogged in response to receiving a filter clogging signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 320. there is.

The output interface 330b may include a display, and outputting information that the filter 120 is clogged by the washing machine 10 may include displaying a visual indicator on the display indicating that the filter 120 is clogged. You can.

That is, the control unit 310 controls the output interface 330b to display a visual indicator indicating that the filter 120 is clogged in response to receiving a filter clogging signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 320. You can.

As another example, the output interface 330b may include at least one indicator lamp, and outputting information that the filter 120 is blocked includes turning on an indicator lamp corresponding to filter blockage among the at least one indicator lamp, or May include flashing.

That is, the control unit 310 may control the output interface 330b to turn on or blink an indicator lamp corresponding to filter blockage in response to receiving a filter blockage signal from the filter device 100 through the communication unit 320. there is.

According to various embodiments, the control unit 310 may control the output interface 330b to display a user interface element EM1 for checking a guide that can solve a blockage of the filter 120.

In response to user interface element EM1 being selected, guidance may be provided to resolve a blockage in filter 120.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to easily notify the user that the filter of the filter device 100 is clogged.

Additionally, according to the present disclosure, a user who recognizes that the filter of the filter device 100 is clogged can easily manage the filter device 100 by replacing the filter.

Additionally, according to the present disclosure, when the filter of the filter device 100 is clogged, a solution can be easily provided to the user.

According to the present disclosure, information obtained by the filter device 100 may be transmitted to an external device (eg, the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3).

Meanwhile, the filter device 100 may also receive necessary information from an external device.

Figure 33 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which a washing machine transmits a drain start signal to a filter device and/or a user device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 33, an exemplary process of a method 2100 in which the washing machine 10 transmits a drain start signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 according to an embodiment can be confirmed.

The washing machine 10 according to one embodiment may start a selected washing course through at least one input interface 16.

The washing course can be broadly classified into a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, and a dehydration cycle, and at least one drain cycle may be performed in each of the washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, and/or a spin-drying cycle.

The washing machine 10 may start the drain stroke in response to the satisfaction of the drain stroke start condition (2110). For example, the washing machine 10 may start a draining cycle in response to the completion of the washing cycle of laundry after water supply.

The washing machine 10 may operate the drain pump 73 based on the start of the drain stroke (2120).

The control unit 90 may operate the drain pump 73 in response to the satisfaction of the start condition of the drain stroke.

The washing machine 10 may transmit a drain start signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 in response to the start of the drain stroke (2130).

The fact that the washing machine 10 transmits a drain start signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 means that the drain start signal transmitted from the filter device 100 is ultimately transmitted to the filter device 100 and/or the user device. Includes what is received by device 3.

The drain start signal may include information that the washing machine 10 has started draining.

In one embodiment, the control unit 90 may control the communication unit 96 to transmit a drain start signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 in response to the start condition of the drain stroke being satisfied. .

According to various embodiments, the control unit 90 may control the communication unit 96 to transmit a drain start signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 in response to operating the drain pump 73. there is.

As another example, the control unit 90 may transmit a drainage start signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 in response to the passage of a predetermined time after operating the drainage pump 73. ) can be controlled.

According to the present disclosure, a drain start signal may be transmitted to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 when water actually flows into the filter device 100.

Referring to FIG. 16, the washing machine 10 may transmit a drain start signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 via the server 2.

For example, the washing machine 10 may transmit a drain start signal to the server 2 through a second network (e.g., a wide area network), and the server 2 may respond to receiving the drain start signal from the washing machine 10. In response, a drain start signal may be transmitted to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 through the second network.

Referring to FIG. 17A, the washing machine 10 can transmit a drain start signal to the user device 3 via the server 2, and directly through D2D (Device to Device) communication without going through the server 2. A drain start signal can be transmitted to the filter device 100.

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 may transmit a drain start signal to the filter device 100 through a first network (eg, a Bluetooth communication network and/or a BLE communication network).

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 may transmit a drain start signal to the server 2 via the second network, and the server 2 may send a drain start signal to the second network in response to receiving the drain start signal from the washing machine 10. A drain detection signal can be transmitted to the user device 3 through .

Referring to FIG. 17b, the washing machine 10 can transmit a drain start signal to the user device 3 via the filter device 100 and the server 2, and can transmit a drain start signal to the user device 3 without going through the server 2. A drain detection signal can be transmitted directly to the washing machine 10 through device) communication.

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 may transmit a drain start signal to the filter device 100 through a first network (eg, a Bluetooth communication network and/or a BLE communication network).

In one embodiment, the filter device 100 may transmit a drain start signal to the server 2 through a second network in response to receiving a drain start signal from the washing machine 10 through the first network, and the server ( 2) may transmit the drain start signal to the user device 3 through the second network in response to receiving the drain start signal from the filter device 100.

Referring to FIG. 18A, the washing machine 10 can transmit a drain start signal to the user device 3 via the server 2, and directly through D2D (Device to Device) communication without going through the server 2. A drain start signal can be transmitted to the filter device 100.

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 may transmit a drain start signal to the filter device 100 through a third network (eg, a wired communication network).

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 may transmit a drain start signal to the server 2 via the second network, and the server 2 may send a drain start signal to the second network in response to receiving the drain start signal from the washing machine 10. A drain start signal can be transmitted to the user device 3 through .

Referring to FIG. 18b, the washing machine 10 can transmit a drain start signal to the user device 3 via the filter device 100 and the server 2, and can transmit a drain start signal to the user device 3 without going through the server 2. A drainage start signal can be transmitted directly to the filter device 100 through (Device) communication.

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 may transmit a drain start signal to the filter device 100 through a third network (eg, a wired communication network).

In one embodiment, the filter device 100 may transmit a drain start signal to the server 2 through the second network in response to receiving the drain start signal from the washing machine 10 through the third network, and the server ( 2) may transmit the drain start signal to the user device 3 through the second network in response to receiving the drain start signal from the filter device 100.

According to the present disclosure, even if the washing machine 10 is not equipped with a module for Internet network communication, information of the washing machine 10 can be transmitted to the user device 3.

According to various embodiments, the washing machine 10, the filter device 100, and/or the user device 3 may output drain start information (2140).

For example, the washing machine 10 may output drain start information in response to the drain pump 73 being operated.

The filter device 100 may output drain start information in response to receiving a drain start signal from the washing machine 10.

The user device 3 may output drain start information in response to receiving a drain start signal from the washing machine 10 .

Draining start information may include information that the washing machine 10 is draining.

An example in which the washing machine 10, the filter device 100, and/or the user device 3 outputs drain start information may correspond to the examples shown in FIGS. 22 to 24, and thus redundant description will be omitted.

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 may determine whether the water supply sensor of the filter device 100 is broken.

For example, in response to the fact that a drainage detection signal is not received from the filter device 100 even though a predetermined time has elapsed since the control unit 90 operates the drainage pump 73, the water supply sensor 182 malfunctions. It can be judged that I

As will be described later, the control unit 90 may control the communication unit 96 to transmit sensor failure information to the user device 3 in response to determining that the water supply sensor 182 is broken.

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 operates the drain hose 74 in response to not receiving a drain detection signal from the filter device 100 even though a predetermined time has elapsed after operating the drain pump 73. It can be judged as blocked.

According to various embodiments, the filter device 100 may determine whether the water supply sensor is broken.

For example, the control unit 191 responds to the fact that the inflow of water is not detected by the water supply sensor 182 even though a predetermined time has elapsed after receiving the drain start signal from the washing machine 10, and ) can be judged to be broken.

As will be described later, the control unit 191 may control the communication unit 199 to transmit sensor failure information to the user device 3 in response to determining that the water supply sensor 182 is broken.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which a washing machine transmits a drain stop signal to the filter device and/or the user device 3 according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 34, an exemplary process of a method 2200 in which the washing machine 10 transmits a drain stop signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 according to an embodiment can be confirmed.

The washing machine 10 may end the drain stroke in response to the satisfaction of the drain stroke termination condition (2210). For example, the washing machine 10 may terminate the drain cycle based on the fact that the water level in the tub 20 falls below a predetermined water level after operating the drain pump 73.

For example, the washing machine 10 may terminate the drain cycle when the water level in the tub 20 reaches a predetermined level after operating the drain pump 73 and a predetermined time elapses.

The washing machine 10 may stop the operation of the drain pump 73 based on the completion of the drain stroke (2220).

The control unit 90 may stop the operation of the drain pump 73 in response to the satisfaction of the end condition of the drain stroke.

The washing machine 10 may transmit a drain stop signal (or drain completion signal) to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 in response to the end of the drain cycle (2230).

The method by which the washing machine 10 transmits the drain stop signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 is the same as the method in operation 2130, so detailed description is omitted.

The drain stop signal may include information that draining of the washing machine 10 is complete.

In one embodiment, the control unit 90 may control the communication unit 96 to transmit a drain interruption signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 in response to the end condition of the drain stroke being satisfied. .

According to various embodiments, the control unit 90 controls the communication unit 96 to transmit a drain interruption signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 in response to stopping the operation of the drain pump 73. can do.

The washing machine 10, filter device 100, and/or user device 3 may output drain interruption information (2140).

For example, the washing machine 10 may output drain interruption information in response to the operation of the drain pump 73 being stopped.

The filter device 100 may output drain interruption information in response to receiving a drain interruption signal from the washing machine 10.

The user device 3 may output drain interruption information in response to receiving a drain interruption signal from the washing machine 10 .

The drain interruption information may include information that draining of the washing machine 10 has been completed.

An example in which the washing machine 10, the filter device 100, and/or the user device 3 outputs drain interruption information may correspond to the examples shown in FIGS. 26 to 28, and thus redundant description will be omitted.

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 may determine whether the water supply sensor of the filter device 100 is broken.

For example, the control unit 90 responds to the fact that a drain stop signal is not received from the filter device 100 even though a predetermined time has elapsed after stopping the operation of the drain pump 73, and the water supply sensor 182 It can be determined that is broken.

As will be described later, the control unit 90 may control the communication unit 96 to transmit sensor failure information to the user device 3 in response to determining that the water supply sensor 182 is broken.

In one embodiment, the washing machine 10 operates the drain hose 74 in response to not receiving a drain detection signal from the filter device 100 even though a predetermined time has elapsed after stopping the operation of the drain pump 73. ) can be judged to be blocked.

According to various embodiments, the filter device 100 may determine whether the water supply sensor is broken.

For example, the control unit 191 responds to the fact that the stoppage of water inflow is not detected by the water supply sensor 182 even though a predetermined time has elapsed after receiving the drain stop signal from the washing machine 10, and (182) can be judged to be broken.

As will be described later, the control unit 191 may control the communication unit 199 to transmit sensor failure information to the user device 3 in response to determining that the water supply sensor 182 is broken.

Figure 35 is a flow chart illustrating an example of a method in which a washing machine transmits a filter blockage signal to a filter device and/or a user device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 35, an exemplary process of a method 2300 in which the washing machine 10 transmits a filter clogging signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 according to an embodiment can be confirmed.

The washing machine 10 according to one embodiment may detect a blockage of the filter 120 (2310).

As an example, the control unit 90 may detect a blockage of the filter 120 in response to the fact that the amount of change in the water level of the tub 20 per hour is less than a predetermined value during the operation of the drain pump 73. To this end, the washing machine 10 may further include a water level sensor to detect the water level in the tub 20.

As another example, the control unit 90 may detect blockage of the filter 120 in response to the load value of the drain pump 73 being more than a predetermined value during operation of the drain pump 73.

For example, the control unit 90 operates the filter 120 in response to the fact that the driving current value (or driving voltage value) applied to the drainage pump 73 during operation of the drainage pump 73 is more than a predetermined value for a predetermined time. Blockage can be detected.

The washing machine 10 may transmit a filter blockage signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 in response to detecting blockage of the filter 120 (2320).

The control unit 90 may control the communication unit 96 to transmit a filter blockage signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 in response to detection of blockage of the filter 120.

The fact that the washing machine 10 transmits a filter blockage signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 means that the filter blockage signal transmitted from the washing machine 10 is ultimately transmitted to the filter device 100 and/or the user device. Includes those received by (3).

The filter clogged signal may include information that the filter 120 is clogged.

The method by which the control unit 90 transmits the filter blockage signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 is the same as the method in operation 2130, so detailed description is omitted.

According to various embodiments, the washing machine 10, the filter device 100, and/or the user device 3 may output filter clogging information (2330).

For example, the washing machine 10 may output filter clogging information in response to detecting clogging of the filter 120.

The filter device 100 may output filter clogging information in response to receiving a filter clogging signal from the washing machine 10.

The user device 3 may output filter clogging information in response to receiving a filter clogging signal from the washing machine 10 .

The filter clogging information may include information that the filter of the filter device 100 is clogged.

An example in which the washing machine 10, the filter device 100, and/or the user device 3 outputs filter clogging information may correspond to the examples shown in FIGS. 30 to 32, and thus redundant description will be omitted.

FIG. 36 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which a filter device (or a washing machine) transmits a sensor failure signal to the washing machine (or a filter device) and/or a user device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 36, an example of a method 1400 in which the filter device 100 transmits a sensor failure signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 according to an embodiment, and the washing machine 10 uses the filter An example of a method 2400 for transmitting a sensor failure signal to the device 100 and/or the user device 3 can be seen.

The filter device 100 according to an embodiment may detect a failure of at least one sensor 181 or 182 of the filter device 100 (1410).

According to various embodiments, the filter device 100 uses information obtained from at least one sensor 181 or 182 and information obtained from an external device (e.g., the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3). Comparison is made, and it is possible to determine whether at least one sensor 181 or 182 is broken based on the comparison result.

For example, the control unit 191 responds to the fact that the stoppage of water inflow is not detected by the water supply sensor 182 even though a predetermined time has elapsed after receiving the drain stop signal from the washing machine 10, and (182) can be judged to be broken.

As another example, the control unit 191 determines that the filter sensor 181 is broken in response to the fact that the filter blockage is not detected by the filter sensor 181 despite receiving a filter blockage signal from the washing machine 10. can do.

The washing machine 10 according to one embodiment may detect a failure of at least one sensor 181 or 182 of the filter device 100 (2410).

According to various embodiments, the washing machine 10 receives information obtained from the configuration of the washing machine 10 (e.g., drain pump 73, sensor unit 95), and external devices (e.g., filter device 100 and/or Alternatively, information obtained from the user device 3 may be compared, and whether at least one sensor 181 or 182 is broken may be determined based on the comparison result.

For example, the control unit 90 responds to the fact that a drain stop signal is not received from the filter device 100 even though a predetermined time has elapsed after stopping the operation of the drain pump 73, and the water supply sensor 182 It can be determined that the is broken.

As another example, the control unit 90 responds to the fact that the filter blockage signal is not received from the filter device 100 despite transmitting the filter blockage signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3, and operates the filter sensor. It can be determined that (181) is broken.

The filter device 100 according to an embodiment sends a sensor failure signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 in response to detecting a failure of at least one sensor 181 or 182 of the filter device 100. can be transmitted (1420).

The method by which the filter device 100 transmits a sensor failure signal to the washing machine 10 and/or the user device 3 is the same as the method in operation 1120, so detailed description is omitted.

The washing machine 10 according to one embodiment sends a sensor failure signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 in response to detecting a failure of at least one sensor 181 or 182 of the filter device 100. can be transmitted (2420).

The sensor failure signal may include information about the type of sensor that has failed among at least one sensor 181 or 182 of the filter device 100.

The method by which the washing machine 10 transmits a sensor failure signal to the filter device 100 and/or the user device 3 is the same as the method in operation 2130, so detailed description is omitted.

According to various embodiments, the washing machine 10, the filter device 100, and/or the user device 3 may output sensor failure information (1430, 2430).

Sensor failure information may include information about a failed sensor.

Figure 37 shows an example of sensor failure information being output to a filter device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 37, the filter device 100 may output sensor failure information in response to detecting a failure of at least one sensor 181 or 182.

As another example, the filter device 100 may output sensor failure information in response to receiving a sensor failure signal from the washing machine 10.

The control unit 191 controls the output interface 197b to output sensor failure information in response to detecting a failure of at least one sensor 181 or 182 and/or receiving a sensor failure signal from the washing machine 10. can do.

The output interface 197b may include a display, and outputting sensor failure information may include displaying a visual indicator on the display notifying the fact that the sensor has failed and the type of the failed sensor.

As another example, the output interface 197b may include at least one indicator lamp, and outputting sensor failure information may include turning on or blinking an indicator lamp corresponding to a sensor failure among the at least one indicator lamp. You can.

Figure 38 shows an example of sensor failure information being output to a washing machine according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 38, the washing machine 10 may output sensor failure information in response to detecting a failure of at least one sensor 181 or 182.

As another example, the washing machine 10 may output sensor failure information in response to receiving a sensor failure signal from the filter device 100.

The control unit 90 controls the output interface 17 to output sensor failure information in response to detecting a failure of at least one sensor 181 or 182 and/or receiving a sensor failure signal from the filter device 100. can do.

The output interface 17 may include a display, and outputting sensor failure information may include displaying a visual indicator on the display notifying the fact that the sensor has failed and the type of the failed sensor.

As another example, the output interface 17 may include at least one indicator lamp, and outputting sensor failure information may include turning on or blinking an indicator lamp corresponding to a sensor failure among the at least one indicator lamp. You can.

Figure 39 shows an example of sensor failure information being output to a user device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 39, the user device 3 may output sensor failure information in response to receiving a sensor failure signal from the washing machine 10 and/or the filter device 100.

For example, the control unit 310 controls the output interface 330b to output sensor failure information in response to receiving a sensor failure signal from the washing machine 10 and/or the filter device 100 through the communication unit 320. can do.

The output interface 330b may include a display, and the washing machine 10 outputting the sensor failure information may include displaying a visual indicator on the display indicating the fact that the sensor has failed and the type of the failed sensor. .

According to various embodiments, the control unit 310 may control the output interface 330b to display a user interface element (EM2) for checking a guide for solving a malfunction of the sensors 181 and 182.

In response to the user interface element EM2 being selected, guidance for resolving a malfunction of the sensors 181 and 182 may be provided.

As another example, the output interface 330b may include at least one indicator lamp, and outputting sensor failure information may include turning on or blinking an indicator lamp corresponding to a sensor failure among the at least one indicator lamp. You can.

According to the present disclosure, the filter device 100 can identify that a sensor of the filter device 100 is broken through communication with an external device.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to easily notify the user that the sensor of the filter device 100 is broken.

Additionally, according to the present disclosure, if the sensor of the filter device 100 breaks down, a solution can be easily provided to the user.

Figure 40 illustrates a user interface for inputting a filter cleaning command provided by a user device according to an embodiment.

The user can remotely transmit a filter cleaning command to the filter device 100 through the user device 3.

After the user executes a predetermined application through the user device 3, communication between the user device 3 and the server 2 may be established in response to accessing the user account.

The filter device 100 may be registered in the user account, and the output interface 330b may provide a user interface for controlling the filter device 100.

The user interface for controlling the filter device 100 may include elements for inputting control commands for operating the filter cleaning device 130.

On the user interface for controlling the filter device 100, the user may input a filter cleaning command through the input interface 330b.

In response to receiving a filter cleaning command through the input interface 330b, the user device 3 may transmit the filter cleaning command to the filter device 100.

The control unit 310 may control the communication unit 320 to transmit a filter cleaning command to the filter device 100.

Figure 41 shows an example of a process in which a filter cleaning command is transmitted from a user device to a filter device via a server.

Referring to FIG. 41, the user device 3 may receive a user input for cleaning the filter 120 (S1). Receiving user input for cleaning filter 120 may include, for example, selecting a “Yes” button in the user interface shown in FIG. 40 .

In response to receiving a filter cleaning command through the input interface 330b, the user device 3 may transmit a filter cleaning command to the server 2 (S2).

The server 2 may transmit a filter cleaning command to the filter device 100 in response to receiving the filter cleaning command from the user device 3 (S3).

The filter device 100 may perform a filter cleaning operation in response to receiving a filter cleaning command from the server 2 (S4).

The control unit 191 may operate the filter cleaning device 130 in response to receiving a filter cleaning command through the communication unit 199.

In summary, the user device 3 can transmit a filter cleaning command to the filter device 100 via the server 2.

Meanwhile, if the filter device 100 cannot use the second network, it cannot communicate directly with the server 2, making it difficult to receive a filter cleaning command.

Figure 42 shows an example of a process in which a filter cleaning command is transmitted from a user device to a filter device via a washing machine.

Referring to FIG. 42, the user device 3 may receive a user input for cleaning the filter 120 (S11).

In response to receiving a filter cleaning command through the input interface 330b, the user device 3 may transmit a filter cleaning command to the server 2 (S12).

The server 2 may transmit a filter cleaning command to the washing machine 10 in response to receiving the filter cleaning command from the user device 3 (S13).

The washing machine 10 may transmit a filter cleaning command to the filter device 100 in response to receiving the filter cleaning command from the server 2 (S14).

According to various embodiments, the filter device 100 and the washing machine 10 may perform D2D communication.

The filter device 100 may perform a filter cleaning operation in response to receiving a filter cleaning command from the washing machine 10 (S15).

The control unit 191 may operate the filter cleaning device 130 in response to receiving a filter cleaning command through the communication unit 199.

In summary, the user device 3 can transmit a filter cleaning command to the filter device 100 via the washing machine 10 and the server 2.

According to the present disclosure, even if the filter device 100 cannot perform Internet communication, it can receive commands from the server 2.

Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. Instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may create program modules to perform operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

Computer-readable recording media include all types of recording media storing instructions that can be decoded by a computer. For example, there may be read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage, etc.

Additionally, computer-readable recording media may be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. Here, 'non-transitory storage medium' simply means that it is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g. electromagnetic waves). This term refers to cases where data is semi-permanently stored in a storage medium and temporary storage media. It does not distinguish between cases where it is stored as . For example, a 'non-transitory storage medium' may include a buffer where data is temporarily stored.

According to one embodiment, methods according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided and included in a computer program product. Computer program products are commodities and can be traded between sellers and buyers. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable recording medium (e.g. compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)) or via an application store (e.g. Play StoreTM) or on two user devices (e.g. It can be distributed (e.g. downloaded or uploaded) directly between smartphones) or online. In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) is stored on a machine-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server. It can be temporarily stored or created temporarily.

As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings. A person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will understand that the present invention can be practiced in forms different from the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical idea or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

1, 1a; clothing processing unit
10, 10a; washing machine
70, 70a; drainage system
100; filter device
110; filter case
111b; case outlet
112a; case inlet
119; zansu guide
120; filter
130; filter cleaning device
131; cleaning material
181; filter sensor
182; water sensor
190a; electric ledger
191; control unit
199; Ministry of Communications

Claims (20)

A filter device disposed outside the washing machine and connectable to the drain device of the washing machine,
housing;
a filter case provided inside the housing and having an inlet and an outlet;
A filter detachably mounted on the filter case; and
It includes a circuitry provided between the housing and the filter case and including a control unit and a communication unit,
The Department of Communications,
A filter device that transmits information obtained by the filter device to at least one of the washing machine or a user device. According to paragraph 1,
Includes at least one sensor connected to the electrical unit,
The control unit,
A filter device that transmits a signal detected by the at least one sensor to at least one of the washing machine and the user device. According to paragraph 2,
The at least one sensor is,
Includes a first sensor that detects the inflow of water through the inlet,
The control unit,
A filter device that controls the communication unit to transmit a drain detection signal to at least one of the washing machine or the user device in response to detection of the inflow of water through the inlet by the first sensor. According to paragraph 3,
The control unit,
A filter device that controls the communication unit to transmit a drain interruption signal to at least one of the washing machine or the user device in response to detection of the interruption of water inflow through the inlet by the first sensor. According to paragraph 2,
The at least one sensor is,
Includes a second sensor that detects blockage of the filter,
The control unit,
A filter device that controls the communication unit to transmit a filter blockage signal to at least one of the washing machine or the user device in response to detection of blockage of the filter by the second sensor. According to paragraph 1,
It further includes a filter cleaning device including a cleaning member provided to be rotatable and in contact with a surface through which foreign substances of the filter are filtered, and a cleaning motor for rotating the cleaning member,
The control unit,
A filter device that operates the cleaning motor in response to detecting the inflow of water through the inlet. According to clause 6,
The control unit,
During operation of the cleaning motor, determine whether the filter is clogged based on the load of the cleaning motor, and control the communication unit to transmit a filter clogging signal to at least one of the washing machine or the user device in response to determining that the filter is clogged. A filter device that does. According to paragraph 1,
The Department of Communications,
A filter device that receives at least one of a drain start signal or a drain stop signal from the washing machine. According to clause 8,
The Department of Communications,
A filter device that transmits at least one of the drain start signal or the drain stop signal to the user device. According to paragraph 1,
A filter device further comprising a user interface device exposed to the outer surface of the housing and connected to the electrical unit. According to clause 10,
The user interface device is,
A filter device comprising: an output interface that displays visualized information related to the filter device. According to clause 11,
The control unit,
A filter device that controls the output interface to display visual information to notify of blockage of the filter in response to detecting blockage of the filter. According to clause 11,
The control unit,
A filter device that controls the output interface to display visual information to notify of the inflow of water in response to detecting the inflow of water through the inlet. According to paragraph 1,
The Department of Communications,
A filter device that transmits information acquired by the filter device to the washing machine or the user device via a server. According to paragraph 1,
The Department of Communications,
A filter device that transmits information obtained by the filter device to the user device via the washing machine. According to paragraph 1,
The Department of Communications,
A filter device including a wireless communication module or a wired communication module connectable to the washing machine. According to paragraph 1,
The electric unit is a filter device provided on an upper side of the filter case. According to paragraph 1,
A filter device further comprising a cable connected to an external power source for supplying power to the electrical unit. According to paragraph 1,
A filter device further comprising a battery that supplies power to the electrical unit. According to paragraph 1,
It further includes a filter cleaning device including a cleaning member provided to be rotatable and in contact with a surface through which foreign substances of the filter are filtered, and a cleaning motor for rotating the cleaning member,
The control unit,
A filter device that operates the cleaning motor in response to a filter cleaning command being received from the washing machine or the user device through the communication unit.

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