WO2021219226A1 - Procédé pour commander une machine à laver et machine à laver - Google Patents

Procédé pour commander une machine à laver et machine à laver Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2021219226A1
WO2021219226A1 PCT/EP2020/062052 EP2020062052W WO2021219226A1 WO 2021219226 A1 WO2021219226 A1 WO 2021219226A1 EP 2020062052 W EP2020062052 W EP 2020062052W WO 2021219226 A1 WO2021219226 A1 WO 2021219226A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
liquid level
condition
washing machine
level detector
value
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2020/062052
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Paolo Driussi
Original Assignee
Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag filed Critical Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag
Priority to PCT/EP2020/062052 priority Critical patent/WO2021219226A1/fr
Priority to EP20724765.1A priority patent/EP4143375A1/fr
Priority to CN202080100214.XA priority patent/CN115698412A/zh
Publication of WO2021219226A1 publication Critical patent/WO2021219226A1/fr

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Classifications

    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F33/00—Control of operations performed in washing machines or washer-dryers 
    • D06F33/30—Control of washing machines characterised by the purpose or target of the control 
    • D06F33/47—Responding to irregular working conditions, e.g. malfunctioning of pumps 
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
    • A47L15/0018—Controlling processes, i.e. processes to control the operation of the machine characterised by the purpose or target of the control
    • A47L15/0047—Energy or water consumption, e.g. by saving energy or water
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
    • A47L15/0018—Controlling processes, i.e. processes to control the operation of the machine characterised by the purpose or target of the control
    • A47L15/0049—Detection or prevention of malfunction, including accident prevention
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
    • A47L15/42—Details
    • A47L15/421—Safety arrangements for preventing water damage
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L2401/00—Automatic detection in controlling methods of washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware, e.g. information provided by sensors entered into controlling devices
    • A47L2401/09—Water level
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L2401/00—Automatic detection in controlling methods of washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware, e.g. information provided by sensors entered into controlling devices
    • A47L2401/20—Time, e.g. elapsed operating time
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L2501/00—Output in controlling method of washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware, i.e. quantities or components controlled, or actions performed by the controlling device executing the controlling method
    • A47L2501/05—Drain or recirculation pump, e.g. regulation of the pump rotational speed or flow direction
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L2501/00—Output in controlling method of washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware, i.e. quantities or components controlled, or actions performed by the controlling device executing the controlling method
    • A47L2501/26—Indication or alarm to the controlling device or to the user
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F2103/00—Parameters monitored or detected for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2103/18—Washing liquid level
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F2103/00—Parameters monitored or detected for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2103/38—Time, e.g. duration
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F2103/00—Parameters monitored or detected for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2103/40—Opening or locking status of doors
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F2105/00—Systems or parameters controlled or affected by the control systems of washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2105/08—Draining of washing liquids
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F2105/00—Systems or parameters controlled or affected by the control systems of washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2105/58—Indications or alarms to the control system or to the user
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F33/00—Control of operations performed in washing machines or washer-dryers 
    • D06F33/30—Control of washing machines characterised by the purpose or target of the control 
    • D06F33/46—Control of the energy or water consumption
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00 
    • D06F39/08—Liquid supply or discharge arrangements
    • D06F39/081—Safety arrangements for preventing water damage

Definitions

  • the present invention refers to a method for controlling a washing machine, for example a laundry washing machine or a dishwasher, and a washing machine configured for implementing the method.
  • washing machines for example laundry washing machines and dishwashers, comprise a washing tub wherein items to be washed can be loaded via an access opening closable by a door or porthole.
  • laundry washing machines the items to be washed (i.e. the laundry) are loaded within a rotating drum contained within the washing tub
  • dishwasher items to be washed i.e. crockery or tableware
  • racks removably mounted within the washing tub.
  • Known washing machines typically comprise a plurality of electric loads (user interface (s), pump(s), valve (s), electric motor (s), etc.), and an electronic control unit configured for controlling such electric loads, in particular during the washing cycles.
  • water is admitted in the tub by a water supply circuit connected to water delivery mains present outside the machine; before or after entering the tub, water can be mixed with a washing and/or rinsing additive and/or it can be heated to a desired temperature.
  • the water supply circuit comprises one or more electro-valves controlled by the control unit for selectively regulating the admission of water from the water delivery means.
  • the washing liquid i.e. water, or water mixed with washing/rinsing additive (s)
  • a discharge circuit typically comprising a drain pump, controlled by the control unit.
  • washing machines are configured in such a way that, after a washing cycle, and/or when they are not operated for a certain time, they are automatically taken in a "stand-by" condition, i.e. a condition in which all, or most of, their electric loads are not supplied with electric power.
  • the control unit is typically configured for generating an alert message (e.g. a specific sound), and/or to interrupt the washing cycle in case the water level within the tub is higher than expected, as it can happen in case of leakage of the electro-valve(s).
  • an alert message e.g. a specific sound
  • the aim of the present invention is therefore to provide a solution for avoiding that liquid could overflow from the tub of a washing machine, for example a laundry washing machine, a washer drier, a dishwasher, while the washing machine is in a stand-by condition in which at least some of its electrical loads are not supplied with electric power.
  • a washing machine for example a laundry washing machine, a washer drier, a dishwasher
  • Applicant has found that by activating a liquid level detector of a washing machine while the latter is in a stand-by condition, it is possible detecting an anomalous increase of the liquid level within the washing tub also during such a stand-by condition and, consequently, activating a drain pump and/or generating an alert, so as to reduce the risk that the liquid could overflow from the washing machine.
  • a method for operating a washing machine comprising a washing tub, one or more electro valves through which a liquid is admitted into the washing tub, a liquid level detector configured for detecting a quantity indicative of the liquid level within the washing tub, a drain pump configured for draining liquid from the washing tub, a plurality of further electric loads, a control unit configured for controlling the one or more electro valves, the liquid level detector, the drain pump, and the plurality of further electric loads, wherein the method comprises taking the washing machine in a stand-by condition in which the one or more electro valves and one or more of the plurality of further electric loads are disconnected from electric power supply, wherein the method comprises the following steps:
  • the first prefixed condition for the first value comprises reaching or exceeding a prefixed first threshold value.
  • the first switch-on time interval is comprised between 5 and 15 seconds.
  • More preferably the first switch-on time interval is 10 seconds.
  • the method comprises, while the washing machine is in the stand-by condition, and after the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector for at least a first switch-on time interval, the following phase:
  • the first switch-off time interval is comprised between 50 and 70 seconds.
  • the first switch-off time interval is 60 seconds.
  • the method comprises: - detecting or estimating a starting value of a quantity indicative of the liquid level within the washing tub at the beginning of the stand-by condition,
  • the method comprises, while the washing machine is in the stand-by condition, and after the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector for at least a first switch-on time interval, the following phases:
  • the phase of disconnecting the liquid level detector from electric power supply for a first switch-off time interval is performed between the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector for a first switch-on time interval and the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector for a second switch-on time interval.
  • the method comprises, while the washing machine is in the stand-by condition, and after the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector for a second switch-on time interval, the following phase: - disconnecting the liquid level detector from electric power supply for a second switch-off time interval.
  • the second switch-off time interval is comprised between 50 and 70 seconds.
  • the second switch-off time interval is 60 seconds.
  • the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector for at least a first switch-on time interval while the washing machine is in the stand-by condition is performed after a prefixed first delay time since the washing machine has been taken in the stand-by condition, during which the liquid level detector is disconnected from electric power supply.
  • the first delay time is comprised between 50 and 70 seconds.
  • the first delay time is 60 seconds.
  • the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector for at least a first switch-on time interval is started simultaneously with taking the washing machine in the stand-by condition.
  • the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector for at least a second switch-on time interval while the washing machine is in the stand-by condition is performed after a prefixed second delay time has lapsed since when the washing machine has been taken in the stand-by condition.
  • the plurality of further electric loads comprises a user interface, wherein when the washing machine is in the stand-by condition, the user interface is disconnected from electric power supply.
  • the drain pump while the washing machine is in the stand-by condition, once the drain pump has been activated for draining liquid from the washing tub, the drain pump is kept active until the value of a quantity indicative of the liquid level within the washing tub detected by the liquid level detector meets a second prefixed condition and/or for a prefixed activation time.
  • the drain pump while the washing machine is in the stand-by condition, the drain pump is electrically powered for all the duration of the stand-by condition.
  • the drain pump is electrically powered only if the first value meets the first prefixed condition.
  • the three phases are repeated a plurality of times at prefixed time intervals.
  • the drain pump is activated if the first level meets the first prefixed condition.
  • the liquid level detector while the washing machine is in the stand-by condition, if the first value detected by the liquid level detector meets the first prefixed condition, the liquid level detector is kept electrically powered for all the rest of the stand-by condition.
  • the method comprises supplying electric power to the liquid level detector for the whole duration of the stand-by condition.
  • the washing machine comprises a door or porthole configured for selectively closing the washing tub, and a closure detection device, operatively connected to the control unit, configured for detecting if the door or porthole is opened or closed, wherein the method comprises, while the washing machine is in the stand-by condition, and before the step of activating the drain pump for draining liquid from the washing tub and/or generating an alert, if the first value meets a first prefixed condition, the following step:
  • the first prefixed condition to be used depending on the closure state of the door can be advantageously selected, for example by the electronic control unit, between a plurality of first prefixed conditions stored in a memory device of the washing machine, preferably comprised and/or functionally associated to the control unit.
  • the first prefixed condition to be used depending on the closure state of the door can be advantageously set and/or calculated and/or processed, for example by the electronic control unit, depending on data indicative of the closure state of the door, and, optionally, also to other data related to the washing machine.
  • the value of the prefixed first threshold is higher than the value of the first threshold if the door or porthole is opened.
  • the value of the prefixed second threshold is higher than the value of the second threshold if the door or porthole is opened.
  • the prefixed value of the third threshold is higher than the value of the third threshold if the door or porthole is opened.
  • a washing machine comprising:
  • a liquid level detector configured for detecting the liquid level within the washing tub
  • a drain pump configured for draining a liquid from the washing tub
  • control unit configured for controlling the liquid level detector, the drain pump, and the plurality of further electric loads
  • control unit is configured for controlling the one or more electro valves, the liquid level detector, the drain pump, and the plurality of further electric loads, in such a way to perform a method according to the invention.
  • Fig 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine, in particular a laundry washing machine, according to the invention.
  • Fig. 2 is a schematic frontal cross section of a washing machine, in particular a laundry washing machine, according to the invention, with some parts not illustrated;
  • Fig. 3 is a flow chart illustrating some operations of a first embodiment of a method according to the invention;
  • Fig. 4 is a flow chart illustrating some operations of a second embodiment of a method according to the invention.
  • Fig. 5 is a flow chart illustrating some operations of a part of a further embodiment of a method according to the invention.
  • the washing machine 10 illustrated in the attached figures is a laundry washing machine, and in particular a laundry washing machine of the front-loading type; it is however clear that the invention can be applied, without any substantial modification, also to top-loading washing machines, both of the "horizontal axis" and of the "vertical axis” type.
  • washer-driers i.e. laundry washing machines that, in addition to be able to wash the laundry, are also provided with a drying system for drying the laundry.
  • the washing machine 10 advantageously comprises a cabinet 20, or housing, preferably substantially parallelepiped, advantageously provided with feet 22 configured to be positioned on a horizontal surface 23, for example the floor of a building.
  • the cabinet 20 houses a washing tub 30 wherein items to be washed (i.e. laundry in the case of a laundry washing machine or washer-drier, or crockery or tableware in the case of a dishwasher) can be loaded via an access opening, not illustrated, closable by a door or porthole 4, preferably hinged to cabinet 20.
  • items to be washed i.e. laundry in the case of a laundry washing machine or washer-drier, or crockery or tableware in the case of a dishwasher
  • an access opening not illustrated, closable by a door or porthole 4, preferably hinged to cabinet 20.
  • the washing tub 30 can be preferably suspended to the cabinet 20 through springs and dampers, not illustrated.
  • the washing tub 30 advantageously contains a drum 40 rotatable with respect to a rotation axis, not illustrated, in which the laundry can be loaded.
  • the rotation axis of the drum 40 is advantageously horizontal, or slightly inclined, while in the so called “vertical-axis” laundry washing machines the axis is vertical.
  • the washing machine 10 is a laundry washing machine or washer-drier, like in the example illustrated in figures 1 and 2, it comprises at least one (preferably two or more) lifter 41 (called also elevator, or rib, or diverter), adapted to improve the stirring of the laundry during the rotation of the drum 40.
  • lifter 41 also elevator, or rib, or diverter
  • the washing tub 30 advantageously contains one or more racks, not illustrated, wherein the items to be washed can be loaded.
  • the washing machine 10 advantageously comprises a water inlet circuit 60, adapted to feed water, or water mixed with washing/rinsing additives, into the tub 30;
  • the water inlet circuit 60 advantageously comprises a first pipe 61, a first end of which is preferably connected or connectable to water delivery mains, not illustrated, external to the washing machine 10, for example the water delivery mains of a building (not illustrated).
  • a second end of the first pipe 61 is fluidly connected to one or more electro-valves 70, configured for allowing/preventing the passage of water from the first pipe 61 to a second pipe 62 fluidly connected to the internal of the washing tub 30.
  • the washing machine 10 is a laundry washing machine or washer-drier, like in the example illustrated in figures 1 and 2, preferably, between the one or more electro-valves 70 and the second pipe 62, there is an additive drawer 80, arranged in such a way that water coming from the first pipe 61 and passing through the one or more electro-valves 70 can mix with an additive (e.g. a detergent and/or a softener) contained in the additive drawer 80, before being admitted into the washing tub 30 via the second duct 62.
  • an additive e.g. a detergent and/or a softener
  • the washing machine 10 is a dishwasher
  • such an additive drawer 80 is preferably not provided, and water coming from the water delivery mains external to the washing machine 10 is admitted into the washing tub 30, without being mixed with an additive, passing through the first pipe 61, the one or more electro valves 80 and the second pipe 62;
  • the washing machine 10 comprises an additive dispenser positioned, preferably, on the inner side of the door or porthole facing the internal of the washing tub 30, and configured for delivering an additive within the washing tub 30 during a washing cycle, so that such an additive mixes with the water present in the washing tub 30.
  • the washing tub 30 is fluidly connected to a drain circuit 90 configured for draining liquid from the bottom of the washing tub 30.
  • the drain circuit 90 comprises one or more draining ducts 91 and a drain pump 92, configured for withdrawing liquid from the bottom of the washing tub 30 and draining such a liquid outside the washing machine 10.
  • the drain circuit 90 comprises a filter 93 fluidly connected upstream the drain pump 92 for preventing foreign bodies to reach and obstruct/damage the latter.
  • the washing machine 10 can comprise a check valve 94 that is arranged, preferably, at the outlet of the washing tub 30 or at the inlet of the drain circuit 90, for keeping the washing liquid within the washing tub 30 during part of the washing cycles.
  • the check valve 94 comprises a float 95 (e.g. a hollow plastic ball) which is freely moveable or floatable within the drain circuit 90 in such a way to engage with a valve seat 96 and fluidly separating the washing tub 2 from the drain circuit 90 when the liquid level in the drain circuit 90 raises over a certain value.
  • a float 95 e.g. a hollow plastic ball
  • the washing machine 10 can advantageously comprise a recirculation circuit, not illustrated, configured for withdrawing liquid from the washing tub 30 and re-admitting such a liquid into a different region of the washing tub 30, so as to reach more effectively all the items to be washed loaded into the latter.
  • a recirculation circuit not illustrated, configured for withdrawing liquid from the washing tub 30 and re-admitting such a liquid into a different region of the washing tub 30, so as to reach more effectively all the items to be washed loaded into the latter.
  • the washing machine 10 comprises also a liquid level detector 100 configured for detecting a quantity indicative of the level of liquid within the washing tub 30.
  • a quantity indicative of the level of liquid within the washinq tub means a quantity that has a specific and biunivocal relation with the level of the liquid within the washing tub 30; for example, the quantity indicative of the level of liquid within the washinq tub could be the liquid level itself (for example if the liquid level detector is an optical sensor configured for sensing directly the level of the liquid), or a quantity, for example the pressure of the liquid within the washing tub 30, which value has a biunivocal relation with (for example it is directly proportional to) the level of the liquid within the washing tub 30.
  • the level of the liquid in the washing tub 30 is advantageously defined with respect to a reference level L ref about which the level detector 100 is set, and that can be a pre-set reference level, or, in a further advantageous embodiment, a level that can be set by the user, for example by operating on a user interface 50, if provided, that will be better described in the following.
  • the reference level L ref against which the level of the liquid within the washing tub 30 is measured can be the level of the valve seat 96 of the check valve 94.
  • the reference level L ref can be, for example, the level of the lowest point of the washing tub 30, or the level of the bottom of the casing 20, or the level of a surface 23 on which the washing machine 10 is configured to be positioned; anyway, other reference levels L ref can be used.
  • the liquid level detector 100 comprises an air chamber 101 having a liquid inlet provided at the washing tub 30 and in fluid communication with the internal of the latter; the air chamber 101 is preferably fluidly connected, more preferably by a third pipe 102, to a sensing element 103 of the liquid level detector 100.
  • the sensing element 103 can be a pressure sensor; advantageously, the sensing element 103 can comprise an electronic unit, not illustrated, configured for calculating/determining the liquid level within the washing tub 30 from the detected pressure; alternatively, or in addition, the electronic unit of the sensing element 103 can be connected to a control unit 200 of the washing machine 30, that will be better described in the following.
  • a washing/rinsing liquid contained in the washing tub 30 when a washing/rinsing liquid contained in the washing tub 30 reaches a certain level at which it enters the air chamber 101, such a washing/rinsing liquid compresses the air contained in the air chamber 101, which pressure is transmitted by the third pipe 102 to the sensing element 103, for example a pressor sensor, configured for detecting the pressure in the air chamber 101.
  • the pressure detected by the sensing element 103 is then used, directly by the sensing element 103 (e.g. if provided with an integrated electronic unit), or by an external electronic unit, e.g. the control unit 200 of the washing machine 10, that will be better described in the following, to which the sensing element 103 is connected, for calculating the level of the liquid within the washing tub 30.
  • the washing machine 10 can comprise a user interface 50, comprising advantageously one or more electric or electronic input/output devices, like, for example, a display 51 (e.g. a so called “touch-screen” display), one or more knobs 52, one or more switch 53, one or more speaker, not illustrated, etc.
  • a display 51 e.g. a so called "touch-screen” display
  • knobs 52 e.g. a so called "touch-screen” display
  • switch 53 e.g. a so called "touch-screen” display
  • speaker e.g. a so called " speaker” speaker
  • the washing machine 10 advantageously comprises a control unit 200, for example an electronic board provided with a microcontroller, schematically illustrated in figure 2 as a rectangle, configured for controlling the one or more electro-valves 70, the liquid level detector 100, the drain pump 92, and a plurality of further electric loads of the washing machine 10.
  • a control unit 200 for example an electronic board provided with a microcontroller, schematically illustrated in figure 2 as a rectangle, configured for controlling the one or more electro-valves 70, the liquid level detector 100, the drain pump 92, and a plurality of further electric loads of the washing machine 10.
  • Such a plurality of further electric loads can comprise, for example, the user interface 50, and/or an electric heater for heating the washing liquid, not illustrated, and/or an electric motor, not illustrated, and/or a speaker, not illustrated, and/or one or more further sensors, for example a turbidity sensor, a temperature sensor, etc., not illustrated.
  • the control unit 200 can be advantageously configured/programmed in such a way to control the one or more electro-valves 70 depending on the washing cycle and/or on the value of a quantity indicative of the liquid level within the washing tub 30 detected by the liquid level detector 100.
  • the method according to the invention comprises taking the washing machine 10 in a stand-by condition in which the one or more electro-valves 70 and one or more of the plurality of further electric loads are disconnected from the electric power supply.
  • the electric loads that can be disconnected from the electric power supply can be the user interface 50 (if provided), and/or an electric heater (if provided), and/or a temperature sensor (if provided), and/or an electric motor (if provided), etc.
  • control unit 200 can be configured for taking the washing machine 10 in the stand-by condition automatically at the end of a washing cycle, and/or after receiving a specific command by the user, for example by the user interface 50 (if provided).
  • the method according to the invention comprises, while the washing machine 10 is in above mentioned stand-by condition, supplying electric power to the liquid level detector 100 for at least a first switch-on time interval tom.
  • the first switch-on time interval tom is preferably comprised between 5 and 15 seconds, more preferably 10 seconds.
  • a first value LI of a quantity indicative of the liquid level within the washing tub 30 is detected by the liquid level detector 100.
  • the drain pump 92 is activated for draining liquid from the washing tub 30 and/or an alert (e.g. a sound) is generated.
  • the drain pump 92 is electrically powered (and therefore it can be activated in order to drain the liquid from the washing tub 30) for all the duration of the stand-by condition.
  • the drain pump 92 in the stand-by condition is electrically powered (and therefore it can be activated in order to drain the liquid from the washing tub 30) only if the first value LI meets a first prefixed condition.
  • a quantity indicative of the level of liquid within the washing tub 30 detected by the liquid level detector 100 meets a second prefixed condition (for example if the value of a quantity indicative of the level of liquid within the washing tub 30 detected by the liquid level detector 100 is below a prefixed value L O FF) and/or for a prefixed activation time tact (for example in the range between 1-2 minutes).
  • the first prefixed condition for the first value LI is or comprises reaching or exceeding a prefixed first threshold value Lthri; in this first advantageous embodiment, therefore, if the liquid level within the washing tub 30 during the stand-by condition, i.e. when the one or more electro-valves 70 are not operating, is increasing over a prefixed threshold value (which increase corresponds to an increased value of the detected value LI), this could mean that the one or more electro-valves 70 are leaking, and therefore the drain pump 92 is activated for draining the liquid from the washing tub 30, so as to avoid further raise of the liquid level, and/or an alert is generated, for example a sound is emitted by a speaker, not illustrated, provided in the washing machine 10, for informing the user about the leakage.
  • the prefixed first threshold value L thri can be selected, for example during the design of the washing machine 10, depending on the specific dimensions and/or shape or the washing tub 30 and/or drain circuit 90, in such a way that, while the first value LI is below such first threshold value Lthri, liquid can't overflow from the washing tub 30.
  • the first threshold value L thri could be comprised between 70-140 mm.
  • this prefixed value L OFF can be the same as the prefixed first threshold value L thri or, preferably, it can be a different value, more preferably a value lower than the prefixed first threshold value L thri so as to introduce an hysteresis in the activation/deactivation of the drain pump 92.
  • the method comprises disconnecting the liquid level detector from electric power supply for a first switch-off time interval t O FFi; in this way, the overall energy consumption during the stand-by condition is reduced.
  • the first switch-off time interval to FFi is comprised between 50 and 70 seconds, more preferably 60 seconds.
  • the liquid level detector 100 while the washing machine 10 is in the stand-by condition, if the first value LI detected by the liquid level detector 100 meets a first prefixed condition, the liquid level detector 100 is kept electrically powered for all the rest of the stand-by condition.
  • the method comprises detecting or estimating a starting value L0 of a quantity indicative of the liquid level within the washing tub 30 at the beginning of the stand-by condition; this starting value L0 can be, for example, the last value of the quantity indicative of liquid level detected before taking the washing machine 10 in the stand-by condition.
  • the starting value L0 could be for example estimated as the value of the quantity indicative of the level of the liquid that could remain within the washing tub 30 after the last drain phase of a washing cycle, for example due to the specific layout of the drain circuit 90.
  • the first value LI is compared to the starting value L0, and the drain pump 92 is activated if the difference between the first value LI and the starting value L0 reaches or exceeds a prefixed second threshold value L thr 2; in this case, therefore, the first prefixed condition that has to be met by the first value LI is related to its difference from the starting value L0; it is clear that this difference grows together with the amount of the leak in the one or more electro-valves 70.
  • the prefixed second threshold value L thr 2 can be selected, for example during the design of the washing machine 10, depending on the specific dimensions and/or shape or the washing tub 30 and/or drain circuit 90, in such a way that, while the difference between the first value LI and the starting value L0 is below such second threshold value L thr 2, liquid can't overflow from the washing tub 30.
  • the second threshold value L thr 2 could be advantageously comprised between 70-140 mm.
  • the method comprises, while the washing machine 10 is in the stand-by condition, and after the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector 100 for at least a first switch-on time interval tom, the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector 100 for a second switch-on time interval to N2 , during which a second value L2 of a quantity indicative of the liquid level within the washing tub 30 is detected by the liquid level detector 100.
  • the second value L2 is compared with the first value LI, and, if the difference between the second value L2 and the first value LI reaches or exceeds a prefixed third threshold value L thr 3 the drain pump 92 is activated for draining the liquid from the washing tub 30, and/or an alert is generated, for example by a speaker, not illustrated.
  • the first prefixed condition that has to be met by the first value LI is related to the difference of the second value L2 from the first value LI; it is clear that this difference grows together with the amount of the leak in the one or more electro-valves 70.
  • the prefixed third threshold value L thr 3 can be selected, for example during the design of the washing machine 10, depending on the specific dimensions and/or shape or the washing tub 30 and/or drain circuit 90, in such a way that, while the difference between the second value L2 and the first value LI is below such third threshold value L thr 3, liquid can't overflow from the washing tub 30.
  • the third threshold value L thr 3 could be advantageously comprised between 50-100 mm.
  • the phase of disconnecting the liquid level detector from electric power supply for a first switch-off time interval t O FFI is preferably performed between the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector 100 for a first switch-on time interval tom and the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector 100 for a second switch-on time interval to N 2.
  • the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector 100 for a first switch-on time interval tom and the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector 100 for a second switch-on time interval to N 2 are performed without disconnecting the liquid level detector 100 from electric power supply between these phases (i.e.
  • the liquid level detector 100 is continuously supplied with electric power at least from the beginning of the first switch-on time interval to Ni to the end of the second switch-on time interval to N 2).
  • the method comprises the phase of disconnecting the liquid level detector 100 from electric power supply for a second switch-off time interval t O FF2, so as to reduce electric consumption.
  • the second switch-off time interval t OFF 2 is comprised between 50 and 70 seconds, more preferably 60 seconds.
  • the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector 100 for at least a first switch-on time interval tom while the washing machine 10 is in the stand-by condition is performed after a prefixed first delay time t di since when the washing machine 10 has been taken in the stand-by condition, during which the liquid level detector 100 is disconnected from electric power supply; in other words, in this advantageous embodiment when the washing machine 10 is taken in the stand-by condition, the liquid level detector 100 is disconnected from the electric power supply, and it is then connected to the electric power supply, so as to be supplied with electric power, only after the first delay time tdi ⁇
  • the first delay time t i is comprised between 30 and 90 seconds, more preferably between 50 and 70 seconds, even more preferably 60 seconds.
  • the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector 100 for at least a second switch-on time interval toN2 is performed after a prefixed second delay time t d 2 has lapsed since when the washing machine 10 has been taken in the stand-by condition.
  • the second switch-on time interval to N 2 is comprised between 30 second and 90 seconds more preferably between 55 seconds and 85 second, even more preferably 70 seconds.
  • the phase of supplying electric power to the liquid level detector for at least a first switch-on time interval tom is started simultaneously with taking the washing machine 10 in the stand-by condition.
  • electric power is supplied to the liquid level detector 100 for the whole duration of the stand-by condition.
  • the user interface 50 is disconnected from electric power supply.
  • the drain pump 92 is activated if, during the repetition of the three phases, the first value Li meets the first prefixed condition, for example it reaches or exceeds the prefixed first threshold value Lt hri .
  • the washing machine 10 comprises a closure detection device, schematically illustrated in figure 2 as a rectangle 44, like for example a sensor (e.g. a magnetic sensor), operatively connected to the control unit 200 and configured for detecting if the door or porthole 4 is opened or closed.
  • a closure detection device e.g. a magnetic sensor
  • the method according to the invention can advantageously comprise, while the washing machine 10 is in the stand-by condition, and before the step of activating the drain pump 92 for draining liquid from the washing tub 30 and/or generating an alert, if the first value LI meets a first prefixed condition, the further step of detecting by the closure detection device 44 if the door or porthole 4 is closed or opened, and making use of a first prefixed condition if the door or porthole 4 is closed, and of a different first prefixed condition if the door or porthole 4 is opened.
  • a prefixed first threshold value L thri can advantageously have a value, for example 200 mm (in case the quantity indicative of the level of liquid within the washinq tub is the liquid level itself), if the door or pothole 4 is closed, and a different value, for example 140 mm if the door or porthole 4 is opened; in fact, if the door or pothole 4 is closed the liquid can't overflow via the opening closed by the door or pothole 4, and therefore an higher value of the prefixed first threshold value L thri can be used.
  • a prefixed second threshold value L thr 2 can advantageously have a value, for example 200 mm (in case the quantity indicative of the level of liquid within the washinq tub is the liquid level itself), if the door or pothole 4 is closed, and a different value, for example 140 mm if the door or porthole 4 is opened; in fact, if the door or pothole 4 is closed the liquid can't overflow via the opening closed by the door or pothole 4, and therefore the prefixed second threshold value L thr 2 can have an higher value.
  • a prefixed third threshold value L thr 3 can advantageously have a value, for example 160 mm (in case the quantity indicative of the level of liquid within the washinq tub is the liquid level itself), if the door or pothole 4 is closed, and a different value, for example 100 mm if the door or porthole 4 is opened; in fact, if the door or pothole 4 is closed the liquid can't overflow via the opening closed by the door or pothole 4, and therefore the prefixed third threshold value L thr 3 can have an higher level.
  • FIG. 10 An advantageous example of a first flow chart 1000 illustrating an advantageous embodiment of the logical steps performed by the control unit 200 for implementing a possible embodiment of the method according to the invention is illustrated in figure 3.
  • the first flow chart 1000 starts with a first step 1001 in which it is checked (advantageously by the control unit 200) if the washing machine 10 is in the stand by condition; if NOT (indicated by letter “N” in the drawings), first step 1001 is repeated, if YES (indicated by letter “Y” in the drawings), a second step 1002 is performed, in which the liquid level detector 100 is supplied with electric power, and the water level (or better a first value Li of a quantity indicative of the liquid level) in the washing tub 30 is detected by the liquid level detector 100, and then the liquid level detector 100 (called pressure switch in figure 3) is switched off (third step 1003).
  • a fourth step 1004 is performed, in which it is checked if the first switch-off time interval t O FFIfor the liquid level detector 100 (called “off time” in figure 3) has been reached; if NOT, fourth step 1004 is repeated, if YES, the liquid level detector 100 is electrically powered (fifth step 1005) again for a second switch-on time interval to N 2 (sixth step 1006, "on time"), and then water level (or better a second value L2 of a quantity indicative of the liquid level) within the washing tub 30 is checked again (seventh step 1007).
  • a further advantageous example of the logical steps performed by the control unit 200 for implementing a possible embodiment of a method according to the invention is illustrated in the second a second flow chart 2000 of figure 4.
  • the second flow chart 2000 starts with a first step 2001 in which it is checked if the washing machine 10 is in the stand by condition; if NOT, first step 2001 is repeated, if YES, a second step 2002 is performed, in which the liquid level detector 100 is supplied with electric power, and the water level (or better a first value LI of a quantity indicative of the liquid level) in the washing tub 30 is detected. Then, a third step 2003 is performed, in which it is checked if a certain time has lapsed; if NOT, third step 2003 is repeated, if YES, the water level (or better a second value L2 of a quantity indicative of the liquid level) within the washing tub 30 is checked again (fourth step 2004).
  • Figure 5 shows an advantageous example an alternative logical step 3000 that can be performed, in the first flow chart 1000 or in the second flow chart 2000, as an alternative, respectively, to step 1001 and to step 2001, in an advantageous embodiment in which the washing machine 10 comprises a closure detection device 44, operatively connected to the control unit 200 and configured for detecting if the door or porthole 4 is opened or closed.
  • This alternative logical step 3000 advantageously comprises, a first step 3001 in which it is checked if the washing machine 10 is in the stand by condition; if NOT, first step 3001 is repeated, if YES, a second step 3011 is performed, in which it is checked by the closure detection device 44 if the door or porthole 4 is closed. If NOT, (i.e. the door or porthole 4 is opened), a low threshold level (e.g. Lthri, Lthr2 or Lth3) is selected and used (step 3012), while if YES (i.e. the door or porthole 4 is closed) a high threshold level (e.g.
  • a low threshold level e.g. Lthri, Lthr2 or Lth3
  • the Lthri, Lthr2 or Lttm is selected and used (step 3013), since in this case the liquid can't overflow via the opening closed by the door or porthole 4, and therefore the level causing the overflow is higher. Then, the flow chart can continue respectively with step 1002 or 2002, depending if it is the first flow chart 1000 or the second flow chart 2000.
  • liquid level detector is electrically powered only after a prefixed first delay time t i since when the washing machine has been taken in the stand-by condition allows keeping reduced the energy consumption while the washing machine is in the stand by condition.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Control Of Washing Machine And Dryer (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un procédé permettant de faire fonctionner une machine à laver (10) comprenant une cuve de lavage (30), une ou plusieurs électrovannes (70) à travers lesquelles un liquide est admis dans la cuve de lavage (30), un détecteur de niveau de liquide (100) configuré pour détecter une quantité indicative du niveau de liquide à l'intérieur de la cuve de lavage (30), une pompe de vidange (92) conçue pour évacuer le liquide de la cuve de lavage (30), une pluralité d'autres charges électriques (50, 51, 52, 53), une unité de commande (200) configurée pour commander l'électrovanne ou les électrovannes (70), le détecteur de niveau de liquide (100), la pompe de vidange (92) et la pluralité d'autres charges électriques (50, 51, 52, 53), le procédé consistant à prendre la machine à laver (10) dans un état d'attente dans lequel l'électrovanne ou les électrovannes (70) et une ou plusieurs autres charges électriques parmi la pluralité d'autres charges électriques (50, 51, 52, 53) sont déconnectées de l'alimentation électrique, le procédé comprenant les étapes suivantes consistant : - pendant que la machine à laver (10) se trouve dans l'état d'attente, à fournir de l'énergie électrique au détecteur de niveau de liquide (100) pendant au moins un premier intervalle de temps de commutation (tON1); - pendant le premier intervalle de temps de commutation (tON1), à détecter, par le détecteur de niveau de liquide (100), une première valeur (L1) d'une quantité indicative du niveau de liquide à l'intérieur de la cuve de lavage (30); - à activer la pompe de vidange (92) pour évacuer le liquide de la cuve de lavage (30) et/ou à générer une alerte, si la première valeur (L1) satisfait une première condition prédéfinie. L'invention concerne également une machine à laver (10) conçue pour mettre en œuvre le procédé. FIG. 3 : 1001%%%Attente active 1002%%%Mesurer le niveau d'eau actuel 1003%%%Éteindre le pressostat 1004%%%Temps d'arrêt écoulé 1005%%%Activer le pressostat 1006%%%Temps de marche écoulé 1007%%%Mesurer le niveau d'eau et évaluer si le niveau augmente 1008%%%Niveau augmentant au-dessus d'un certain seuil 1009%%%Fuite d'électrovanne détectée. Alarme réglée et vider la cuve de lavage 1010%%%Alarme réglée sur l'IU et/ou l'application. Évacuer entièrement toute l'eau. AA%%%O
PCT/EP2020/062052 2020-04-30 2020-04-30 Procédé pour commander une machine à laver et machine à laver WO2021219226A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (3)

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PCT/EP2020/062052 WO2021219226A1 (fr) 2020-04-30 2020-04-30 Procédé pour commander une machine à laver et machine à laver
EP20724765.1A EP4143375A1 (fr) 2020-04-30 2020-04-30 Procédé pour commander une machine à laver et machine à laver
CN202080100214.XA CN115698412A (zh) 2020-04-30 2020-04-30 用于控制洗涤机的方法和洗涤机

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PCT/EP2020/062052 WO2021219226A1 (fr) 2020-04-30 2020-04-30 Procédé pour commander une machine à laver et machine à laver

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Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2000350885A (ja) * 1999-06-14 2000-12-19 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd 洗濯機の制御装置
WO2011121550A1 (fr) * 2010-03-30 2011-10-06 Indesit Company S.P.A. Appareil électroménager comportant un système de veille/activation
WO2012103981A2 (fr) * 2010-12-31 2012-08-09 Arcelik Anonim Sirketi Machine à laver détectant un trop-plein d'eau
EP2886702A1 (fr) * 2013-12-19 2015-06-24 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag Système de commande de trop-plein
CN107447434A (zh) * 2017-08-18 2017-12-08 青岛海尔洗衣机有限公司 洗衣机进水监测装置、监测方法及洗衣机
CN110144698A (zh) * 2018-02-12 2019-08-20 青岛海尔洗衣机有限公司 一种洗衣机的控制方法

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2000350885A (ja) * 1999-06-14 2000-12-19 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd 洗濯機の制御装置
WO2011121550A1 (fr) * 2010-03-30 2011-10-06 Indesit Company S.P.A. Appareil électroménager comportant un système de veille/activation
WO2012103981A2 (fr) * 2010-12-31 2012-08-09 Arcelik Anonim Sirketi Machine à laver détectant un trop-plein d'eau
EP2886702A1 (fr) * 2013-12-19 2015-06-24 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag Système de commande de trop-plein
CN107447434A (zh) * 2017-08-18 2017-12-08 青岛海尔洗衣机有限公司 洗衣机进水监测装置、监测方法及洗衣机
CN110144698A (zh) * 2018-02-12 2019-08-20 青岛海尔洗衣机有限公司 一种洗衣机的控制方法

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