CN1809659B - Washing machine and control method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed are a washing machine and a control method thereof, comprising the steps of: (a) calculating a detergent amount during a washing operation; (b) setting a washing mode according to the calculated detergent amount; and (c) performing a washing operation according to the set washing mode, thereby improving the washing ability of the washing machine.

Description

Washing machine and control method thereof

technical field

The present invention relates to a washing machine and a control method thereof, and more particularly to a washing machine in which a detergent amount is calculated in a washing operation, and a washing operation is performed according to a washing mode set based on the calculated detergent amount, and a control method thereof. the

Background technique

In general, a washing machine is a device that uses electricity to provide mechanical action to remove dirt from clothes. When clothes are placed in water in which detergent has been dissolved, the dirt on clothes is removed by the chemical reaction of the detergent. However, since it takes a long time to remove dirt from clothes only by a chemical reaction of detergent, it is easy to remove dirt from clothes by forcibly generating swirling water flow or applying mechanical actions such as friction or vibration to clothes. the

A washing machine includes an outer tub, an inner tub for clothes, which is placed in the outer tub and rotates, a washing turbine, which is installed in the inner tub and rotates to generate washing water flow, and a motor and clutch , for rotating the inner tub or the washing turbine, which is installed on the lower part of the outer tub. the

The above-mentioned washing machines have different washing or cleaning capabilities according to the amount of clothes, the amount of detergent, and the hardness of washing water. In the traditional washing machine control method, the amount of clothes put into the inner tub is detected, and the washing mode is set according to the detected amount of clothes, including washing time, number of washings, washing time, dehydration time, etc., so that the washing machine operates according to the set washing mode operate. the

However, the conventional washing machine control method only considers the amount of clothes, but ignores the hardness of water supplied to the washing machine, thus creating a limit to improving the washing or cleaning ability of the washing machine. the

Contents of the invention

Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine and a control method thereof in which washing operation is performed taking into account the amount of detergent calculated at the time of washing operation, thereby improving washing performance. the

According to one aspect of the present invention, the above and other objects are achieved by providing a washing machine control method, which includes the steps of: (a) calculating the amount of detergent during the laundry operation; (b) setting the laundry mode according to the calculated amount of detergent ; and (c) performing a cleaning operation according to the set laundry mode. the

According to another aspect of the present invention, a washing machine control method is provided, which includes the steps of: (I) setting a laundry mode according to the amount of clothes; (II) performing a laundry operation according to the laundry mode set in step (I), calculating the amount of detergent, And reset the laundry mode according to the calculated detergent amount; and (III) perform the cleaning operation according to the reset laundry mode, step (II) includes sub-steps: (i) water supplied according to the laundry mode set in step (I) And dissolve detergent in water; (ii) after sub-step (i), according to the hardness of the water calculated and stored during the operation of the washing machine before, select a table from a plurality of tables containing the amount of detergent; measure the amount of detergent dissolved therein the conductivity and temperature of water with detergent; and by entering the conductivity and temperature of water with detergent dissolved therein into the selected table, calculating the amount of detergent and resetting the laundry mode based on the calculated amount of detergent; and (iii) Perform the laundry operation according to the laundry mode reset in sub-step (ii), recalculate the amount of detergent, and reset the laundry mode according to the recalculated amount of detergent. the

Preferably, the washing mode includes at least one of washing intensity, water level provided, washing time, washing times, washing time, and spinning time. the

Provided is a washing machine control method, comprising the steps of: (I) setting a laundry mode according to the amount of clothes; (II) performing a laundry operation according to the laundry mode set in step (I), calculating the amount of detergent, and resetting according to the calculated amount of detergent and (III) performing a washing operation according to the reset laundry mode, wherein step (II) includes the sub-steps: (i) according to the hardness of the water calculated and stored during the previous washing machine operation, from the washing machine containing the amount of detergent selecting one of the tables; (ii) measuring the conductivity and temperature of water with detergent dissolved therein; and (iii) by entering the conductivity and temperature of water with detergent dissolved therein into the selected table , to calculate the detergent dosage. the

Furthermore, in step (II), when measuring the conductivity and temperature of water in which detergent is dissolved to calculate the amount of detergent, the measured value of the amount of detergent is displayed to the outside. the

Preferably, in step (III), the conductivity and temperature of the water are measured during the washing operation, and the hardness of the water is calculated from the measured conductivity and temperature of the water and stored for the next washing machine operation. the

Provided is a washing machine control method, comprising the steps of: (I) setting a laundry mode according to the amount of clothes; (II) performing a laundry operation according to the laundry mode set in step (I), calculating the amount of detergent, and resetting according to the calculated amount of detergent Laundry mode; and (III) perform a cleaning operation according to the reset laundry mode, wherein step (II) includes sub-steps: (i) supply a part of water according to the laundry mode set in step (I) and dissolve in the provided part of the water Detergent; (ii) after sub-step (i), select a table from a plurality of tables containing detergent dosages based on water hardness calculated and stored from previous washing machine operations; measure water in which detergent is dissolved and by entering the conductivity and temperature of water with detergent dissolved therein into the selected table, calculating the amount of detergent and resetting the laundry mode according to the calculated amount of detergent; and (iii) according to The laundry mode reset in sub-step (ii) supplies the remaining part of water and performs laundry operation, recalculates the amount of detergent, and resets the laundry mode according to the recalculated amount of detergent. the

Furthermore, preferably, substeps (i) to (iii) are repeated several times in order to provide the remainder of the water over several stages. the

Preferably, after the washing mode is set according to the amount of clothes in step (I), the washing, washing and dehydrating times are displayed on the display. the

In addition, after the washing mode is reset in step (II), the remaining time commensurate with the reset washing mode is displayed on the display. the

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a washing machine control method, wherein when a sensor assembly detects a state or characteristic of water, the detected result is indicated to a user through an indicator to notify the user of the detected result. the

Preferably, the sensor assembly detects the state or characteristic of the water multiple times, and in the above-mentioned multiple detection operations, the detected result is indicated to the outside through the indicator only in the initial detection operation of the sensor assembly. the

Preferably, where the indicator includes an LED, the LED is turned off only when the sensor unit is performing an initial detection operation, and is turned on when the sensor unit is not performing an initial detection operation. the

Also, in the case where the indicator includes a plurality of LEDs, all the LEDs are turned off only when the sensor assembly performs an initial detection operation, and at least one LED is turned on when the sensor assembly does not perform an initial detection operation. the

Furthermore, preferably, in the case where the indicator includes a dual LED capable of displaying a plurality of colors, the dual LED is turned off to sequentially turn off the colors represented by the dual LED when the sensor unit performs an initial detection operation, and the sensor unit Turn on a color without performing the initial detection operation. the

According to another aspect of the present invention, a washing machine control method is provided, which includes the steps of: (I) detecting the state or characteristics of water through a sensor assembly; (II) comparing the detection result obtained in step (I) with a predetermined value ; and displaying the result obtained by comparing step (II) by means of an indicator. the

Preferably, where the indicator includes a dual LED representing a plurality of colors, the dual LED turns on different colors depending on whether the detected state and characteristics of the water are appropriate. the

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a washing machine comprising: a sensor assembly for detecting the state or characteristics of water contained in the washing machine; an indicator installed in the washing machine for indicating the operation of the sensor assembly to the outside; and a microcomputer for controlling the indicator to indicate the detection operation of the sensor assembly to the outside when the sensor assembly detects the state or characteristics of the water. the

Preferably, the indicator may comprise an LED. the

Furthermore, preferably, the indicator may comprise a plurality of LEDs. the

Furthermore, preferably, the indicator may comprise a dual LED that emits light of various colors. the

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a washing machine, comprising: a sensor assembly for detecting the state or characteristics of water contained in the washing machine; The detected data of the state or characteristic of the water is indicated to the outside; and a microcomputer for controlling the indicator according to the detection result of the sensor unit. the

The control method of the present invention calculates the amount of detergent during the laundry operation, sets the laundry mode according to the calculated amount of detergent, and executes the cleaning operation according to the set laundry mode, thereby improving the cleaning ability of the washing machine. the

The control method of the present invention sets the laundry mode according to the amount of clothes, supplies water according to the set laundry mode, dissolves detergent in the water, calculates the amount of detergent, resets the laundry mode according to the amount of detergent, and performs the laundry operation according to the reset laundry mode, Thereby calculating the exact amount of detergent dissolved in water and using the best laundry mode to increase the washing capacity of the washing machine. the

The control method of the present invention calculates the amount of detergent multiple times, and performs a cleaning operation according to the calculated amount of detergent, thereby having an optimal cleaning ability and minimizing water and energy consumption. the

The control method of the present invention measures the conductivity and temperature of the water during the washing operation, calculates the hardness of the water based on the measured conductivity and temperature of the water, and considers the calculated hardness in the next operation of the washing machine, thereby obtaining the optimum Laundry and cleaning capabilities. the

The control method of the present invention displays the time of washing, washing and dehydrating when setting the washing mode, and displays the remaining time when resetting the washing mode, thereby allowing the user to easily confirm the change in the time of washing completion. the

The control method of the present invention displays the detection operation of the sensor assembly through the display when the sensor assembly detects the state or characteristics of water, so that the user easily recognizes the operation of the sensor assembly, even if the manipulating part is stopped or the operating speed is changed during the detection operation of the sensor assembly, it cannot When it is determined that the operating part has failed. the

The washing machine of the present invention includes a sensor unit for detecting the state or characteristics of water contained in the washing machine, an indicator installed in the washing machine for indicating the operation of the sensor unit to the outside, and a microcomputer for When the sensor assembly detects the state or characteristic of water, the indicator is controlled to indicate the detection operation of the sensor assembly to the outside, thereby allowing the user to confirm whether the sensor assembly completes the detection operation. the

In addition, the washing machine of the present invention includes a sensor assembly for detecting the state or characteristics of water contained in the washing machine, an indicator installed in the washing machine for displaying information about the state or characteristics of the water detected by the sensor assembly. The data is indicated to the outside, and a microcomputer for controlling the indicator according to the detection result of the sensor unit, thereby allowing the user to confirm whether the sensor unit has completed the detection operation. the

Description of drawings

From the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the above-mentioned and other objects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood, wherein:

Fig. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view for carrying out the washing machine according to the control method of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a block diagram for carrying out the washing machine according to the control method of the present invention;

Figure 3 is a partial perspective view of the sensor assembly in the washing machine of Figure 1;

Fig. 4 is the enlarged sectional view of the sensor assembly in Fig. 1 washing machine;

Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of a control panel in the washing machine of Figure 1;

Figure 6 is another schematic illustration of the control panel in the washing machine of Figure 1;

7a and 7b are flow charts representing a washing machine control method according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing a washing machine control method according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing a washing machine control method according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing a washing machine control method according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a washing machine control method according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. the

Detailed ways

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. the

1 is a longitudinal sectional view of a washing machine for performing a control method according to the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a washing machine for performing a control method according to the present invention. the

The washing machine shown in Figure 1 comprises a casing 1, which defines the appearance of the washing machine, an outer tub 10 for containing water therein, which is suspended by a support 2 in the casing 1, and an inner tub 28, which is rotatable and mounted on the outer tub 10 , and equipped with laundry turbine 26 and motor 30 installed on the bottom surface, which are placed under the outer tub 10 for rotating the laundry turbine 26 or inner tub 28, power transmission device 40, such as a clutch, for the motor 30 The power is transmitted to the washing turbine 26 or the inner tub 28, and the microcomputer 50 for controlling the operation of the washing machine. the

The top cover 3 constituting the upper part of the washing machine is placed on the upper end of the cabinet 1 . the

The central part of the top cover 3 has an opening 4 through which clothes are put into and taken out of the washing machine, and a pusher 5 for opening and closing the opening 4, which is rotatable and connected to one side of the top cover 3. the

Installed on the back of the top cover 3 is a water supply valve 6 for stopping water supplied through an external hose, and a detergent box 7 for storing detergent so that the water passing through the water supply valve 6 is mixed with the detergent and the resulting mixture is Provided to the inner tub 28 or the outer tub 20. the

A microcomputer 50 is installed at the front of the top cover 3, and a control panel 8 is placed at the front of the top cover 3 to allow a user to operate the washing machine therethrough. the

Install the bracket protruding from the bottom surface of the casing 1 on the base supporting the casing 1 . the

A drain valve 11 is installed at the lower part of the tub 10 for stopping water outflow, and a drain hose 12 is connected to the drain valve 11 for guiding water passing through the drain valve to the outside of the washing machine. the

The air chamber 13 communicating with the outer tub 10 is installed on one side of the outer tub 10 . the

When water is supplied to the air chamber 13 , an air pipe 14 for compressing air is connected to an upper portion of the air chamber 13 , and a pressure sensor 15 for detecting the pressure in the air pipe 14 is connected to the air pipe 14 . the

The pressure sensor 15 outputs a signal to the microcomputer 50 , and the microcomputer 50 detects the water level based on the signal output from the pressure sensor 15 . the

A sensor assembly 16 is installed at the bottom of the air chamber 13 for detecting the temperature and conductivity of the water. the

The sensor unit 16 detects the conductivity and temperature of water in which detergent is not dissolved, or the conductivity and temperature of water in which detergent is dissolved, and outputs corresponding information to the microcomputer 50 . After that, the microcomputer 50 sets the washing mode according to the signal output by the sensor assembly 16, including washing intensity, water level provided, washing time, washing times, washing time, dehydration time and so on. the

Here, the washing intensity is adjusted by changing the rotational speed (rpm) of the washing turbine 26 or the inner tub 28 or by rotating the washing turbine 26 or the inner tub 28 . the

The motor 30 includes a stator fixed to the bottom surface of the tub 10, a rotor rotated by magnetic interaction with the stator, and a cavity sensor 32 for detecting a rotational speed (rpm) or a rotation angle of the rotor. the

The cavity sensor 32 outputs a signal to the microcomputer 50 , and the microcomputer 50 detects the amount of clothes according to the signal output by the cavity sensor 32 . the

The microcomputer 50 stores a plurality of tables for determining the amount of detergent corresponding to the hardness of water. Therefore, the micom 50 selects a table from the stored tables according to the hardness of the water, and then uses the selected table to determine the amount of detergent dissolved in the water from the conductivity and temperature of the water. the

FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view of the sensor assembly 16 shown in FIG. 1 , and FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the sensor assembly 16 shown in FIG. 1 . the

As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the sensor assembly 16 includes a conductivity sensor 17, which has a pair of conductivity electrodes separated from each other, a temperature sensor 18, which has a temperature electrode for detecting temperature, a housing 19 inserted into the gas chamber 13 , equipped with an open bottom surface, and has a pair of through holes 19A and 19B for the conductivity electrode on the upper surface to pass therethrough, and a protrusion 19C surrounding the temperature electrode, a cover 20, which passes through the lower part of the conductivity electrode and the temperature electrode, and Attached to the bottom surface of the frame 19 , and a filler material 21 which fills the space formed between the frame 19 and the cover 20 . the

A plug 24 equipped with a plurality of wires 22 and 23 is connected to and unplugged from the cover 20 for signal communication between the sensor unit 16 and the microcomputer. the

The plug 24 includes a socket holder 25, which can be connected to and separated from the cover 20, and equipped with a plurality of sockets 26 and 27, which are connected to the wires 22 and 23 at one end and connected to the conductivity electrode and temperature electrode at the other end. electrode and its separation. the

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a control panel in the washing machine of FIG. 1 . the

As shown in FIG. 5, the control panel 8 includes at least one operation button 60 for allowing the user to operate the washing machine through it, a washing mode display 62 such as LCD, LED or 88 segments for displaying the washing mode of the washing machine to the outside, and The indicator 64 is used to indicate the detection state of the sensor assembly or data on the state of the water detected by the sensor assembly to the outside. the

Indicator 64 may be a dual LED for displaying multiple colors, or a single LED for displaying one color. the

FIG. 6 is another schematic illustration of the control panel in the washing machine of FIG. 1 . the

As shown in FIG. 6, the control panel 8 includes an indicator 64 including a plurality of LEDs for indicating the detection state of the sensor assembly or data on the state of water detected by the sensor assembly to the outside. the

Each LED can be a dual LED for displaying multiple colors, or a single LED for displaying one color. the

7a and 7b are flowcharts showing a washing machine control method according to a first embodiment of the present invention. the

As shown in FIG. 7a, in the washing machine control method according to the first embodiment of the present invention, when the instruction of turning on the power and operating the washing machine through the control panel 8 is input to the washing machine, the microcomputer 50 determines whether the washing machine is in the initial operation (S1 and S2). the

In case it is determined that the washing machine is in the initial operation, the microcomputer 50 loads the standard hardness, which has been input to the microcomputer 50 in advance. On the other hand, in case it is determined that the washing machine is not in the initial operation, the microcomputer 50 loads the hardness of the water stored in the previous operation (S3 and S4). the

After that, the microcomputer 50 detects the amount of clothes put into the washing machine (S5). the

Here, the microcomputer 50 rotates the motor 30 to stir the agitator (pulsator) or the inner bucket 28 in a short time, or rotate once, and according to the signal output by the cavity sensor 32, measure the agitation of the agitator or the inner bucket 28, or rotate the agitator or the inner bucket. 28 the time spent once or the remaining turning angle (surplus rotating angle), so that the amount of clothes can be detected. The present invention can also be applied to other detection methods than the above-mentioned detection methods. the

The microcomputer 50 sets the washing mode according to the detected amount of clothes (S6). the

Here, the washing mode includes all elements related to the operation of the washing machine, such as washing intensity, supplied water level, washing time, number of times of washing, washing time, spinning time, and the like. For convenience of description hereinafter, the laundry mode is limited to the washing intensity, the water level provided, the washing time, the number of washing times, the washing time, and the dehydration time. the

After the microcomputer 50 sets the laundry mode, the microcomputer 50 outputs a control signal to the laundry mode display 62, so that all the elements of the set laundry mode or only the laundry, cleaning and dehydration time are displayed to the outside by the laundry mode display 62 (S7) . the

The microcomputer 50 opens the water supply valve 6 to supply water to the first water level of the set laundry mode (S8). the

When the water supply valve 6 is opened, water passes through the detergent box 7 , dissolves detergent contained in the detergent box 7 in the water, and supplies the resulting mixture to the inner tub 28 or the outer tub 10 . When the mixture of water and detergent is supplied to the first water level, the microcomputer 50 closes the water supply valve 6 . the

The microcomputer 50 operates the motor 30 during the first washing time of the set washing mode. the

A swirling water flow is generated in the inner tub 28, thereby performing a laundry operation (S9). the

Thereafter, after the elapse of the first washing time, the microcomputer 50 opens the water supply valve 6 to supply water to the second water level of the set washing mode (S10). the

When the water supply valve 6 is opened, new water is supplied to the inner tub 28 or the outer tub 10 so that the inner tub 28 or the outer tub 10 contains a larger amount of water. When water is supplied to the second water level, the microcomputer 50 closes the water supply valve 6 . the

Thereafter, the microcomputer 50 operates the motor 30 during the second washing time of the set washing mode. the

Here, the microcomputer 50 conventionally and reversely rotates the motor 30 to agitate the clothes contained in the inner tub 28 to increase the solubility of the detergent in water (S11). the

After the second washing time elapses, the microcomputer 50 stops operating the motor 30 . the

Next, the microcomputer 50 selects a table from a plurality of tables storing detergent quantities corresponding to the hardness of the loaded water, and outputs a signal to the conductivity sensor 17 and the temperature sensor 18 so that the conductivity sensor 17 and the temperature sensor 18 measures the conductivity and temperature of the water containing detergent, and during the measurement, turns on or off the indicator 64 (S12). the

The microcomputer 50 calculates the amount of detergent using the selected table based on the measured conductivity and temperature of the detergent-containing water (S13). the

After that, the microcomputer 50 resets the laundry mode for the next operation according to the calculated amount of detergent (S14). the

Here, the microcomputer 50 may reset all or several elements of the initially set laundry mode. the

The microcomputer 50 outputs a control signal to the washing mode display 62 to display all elements of the reset washing mode or only remaining washing, washing and dehydrating time to the outside through the washing mode display 62 (S15). the

During the third washing time of the reset washing mode, the microcomputer 50 operates the motor 30 (S16). the

That is, the washing turbine 26 or the inner tub 28 rotates under the condition that detergent is completely dissolved in water so that the solubility of the detergent is high, thereby performing a washing operation. the

In a case where additional water supply has been set in the reset laundry mode, the microcomputer 50 supplies additional water to a water level higher than the first and second water levels, and continues to rotate the motor 30 . the

Here, the microcomputer 50 may supply additional water at one time, or gradually supply additional water several times. Hereinafter, for convenience of description, the number of supply times of additional water is limited to 2. the

After the elapse of the third washing time, the microcomputer 50 supplies additional water to the third water level, and continues to rotate the motor 30 during the fourth washing time (S17). the

When the water supply valve 6 is opened, new water is supplied to the inner tub 28 or the outer tub 10 so that the inner tub 28 or the outer tub 10 contains a larger amount of water. When water is supplied to the third water level, the microcomputer 50 closes the water supply valve 6 . the

After the elapse of the fourth washing time, the microcomputer 50 supplies additional water to the fourth water level, which is higher than the third water level, and continues to rotate the motor 30 during the fifth washing time (S18). the

When the water supply valve 6 is opened, new water is supplied to the inner tub 28 or the outer tub 10 so that the inner tub 28 or the outer tub 10 contains a larger amount of water. When water is supplied to the fourth water level, the microcomputer 50 closes the water supply valve 6 . the

Here, in the above-mentioned additional water supply, the microcomputer 50 may measure again the conductivity and temperature of the water in which the detergent is dissolved before completing the laundry operation in the third water level, and calculate again based on the measured conductivity and temperature of the water. detergent amount, and reset the laundry mode according to the calculated detergent amount, such as the fourth water level and/or the fifth laundry time. the

Afterwards, before the above-mentioned washing operation is completed, the microcomputer 50 calculates the amount of detergent again to reset the washing mode for the washing and spinning operation or only for the washing operation. the

That is, before the fifth laundry time elapses, the microcomputer 50 selects a table from a plurality of tables storing the amount of detergent corresponding to the hardness of the loaded water, and outputs a signal to the conductivity sensor 17 and the temperature sensor 18, so that the conductivity sensor 17 and the temperature sensor 18 measure the conductivity and temperature of the water in which the detergent is dissolved, and during the measurement, the indicator 64 is turned on or off (S19). the

The microcomputer 50 recalculates the amount of detergent using the selected table based on the measured conductivity and temperature of the detergent-containing water (S20). the

After that, the microcomputer 50 resets the laundry mode according to the calculated amount of detergent (S21). the

Here, the microcomputer 50 may reset all or several elements of the initially set laundry mode. the

The microcomputer 50 outputs a control signal to the washing mode display 62 to display all elements of the reset washing mode or only remaining washing, washing and dehydrating time to the outside through the washing mode display 62 (S22). the

After the washing mode is reset and the fifth washing time elapses, the microcomputer 50 opens the drain valve 11 to drain dirty water during the washing operation out of the washing machine, and after the draining of dirty water is completed, closes the drain valve 11 (S23). the

After that, the microcomputer 50 operates the motor 30 and the power transmission device 40 in the dehydration mode, thereby dehydrating the clothes in the washing machine (S24). the

As shown in FIG. 7b, the microcomputer 50 repeats water supply, washing, draining and dehydration according to the washing times of the reset laundry mode. the

Here, for the convenience of description, the number of cleanings is reset to 3 times. the

The microcomputer 50 opens the water supply valve 6 to supply water to the fifth water level of the reset laundry mode (S25). the

When the water supply valve 6 is opened, water passes through the detergent box 7 , dissolves detergent contained in the detergent box 7 in the water, and supplies the resulting mixture to the inner tub 28 or the outer tub 10 . When the mixture of water and detergent is supplied to the fifth water level, the microcomputer 50 closes the water supply valve 6 . the

The microcomputer 50 operates the motor 30 during the first washing time of the reset laundry mode. the

A swirling water flow is generated in the inner tub 28, thereby performing a washing operation (S26). the

Thereafter, after the elapse of the first washing time, the microcomputer 50 opens the drain valve 11 to drain the dirty water during the washing operation out of the washing machine, and closes the drain valve 11 after the draining of the dirty water is completed (S27). the

After that, the microcomputer 50 operates the motor 30 and the power transmission device 40 in the dehydration mode, thereby dehydrating the clothes in the washing machine (S28). the

Thereafter, the microcomputer 50 opens the water supply valve 6 to supply water to the sixth water level of the reset laundry mode (S29). the

When the water supply valve 6 is opened, water passes through the detergent box 7 , dissolves detergent contained in the detergent box 7 in the water, and supplies the resulting mixture to the inner tub 28 or the outer tub 10 . When the mixture of water and detergent is supplied to the sixth water level, the microcomputer 50 closes the water supply valve 6 . the

The microcomputer 50 operates the motor 30 during the second washing time of the reset laundry mode. the

A swirling water flow is generated in the inner tub 28, thereby performing a washing operation (S30). the

Thereafter, after the elapse of the second washing time, the microcomputer 50 opens the drain valve 11 to drain the dirty water during the washing operation out of the washing machine, and closes the drain valve 11 after the draining of the dirty water is completed (S31). the

After that, the microcomputer 50 operates the motor 30 and the power transmission device 40 in the dehydration mode, thereby dehydrating the clothes in the washing machine (S32). the

Thereafter, the microcomputer 50 opens the water supply valve 6 to supply water to the seventh water level of the reset laundry mode (S33). the

When the water supply valve 6 is opened, water passes through the detergent box 7 , dissolves detergent contained in the detergent box 7 in the water, and supplies the resulting mixture to the inner tub 28 or the outer tub 10 . When the mixture of water and detergent is supplied to the seventh water level, the microcomputer 50 closes the water supply valve 6 . the

The microcomputer 50 operates the motor 30 during the third washing time of the reset laundry mode. the

The microcomputer 50 may rotatably agitate (for example, 1 minute) for a specified time of the third washing time (for example, 3 minutes) in order to improve the accuracy of calculating the hardness of water, which will be described later. the

After the designated time (for example 1 minute) of the third cleaning time (for example 3 minutes) elapses, the microcomputer 50 outputs a signal to the conductivity sensor 17 and the temperature sensor 18, so that the conductivity sensor 17 and the temperature sensor 18 measure the temperature of the water. Conductivity and temperature (S34 and S35). the

The microcomputer 50 calculates the hardness of the water using a prescribed formula or table for determining the hardness of the water based on the measured electrical conductivity and temperature of the water (S36). the

The microcomputer 50 stores the calculated water hardness in EEPROM (S37). the

Thereafter, the microcomputer 50 continues to operate the motor 30 for the remaining time (eg, 2 minutes) of the third washing time (eg, 3 minutes) and generates a rotating water flow in the inner tub 28, thereby performing a washing operation (S38). the

After the elapse of the third washing time, the microcomputer 50 opens the drain valve 11 to drain the dirty water during the washing operation out of the washing machine, and after completion of draining the dirty water, closes the drain valve 11 (S39). the

After that, the microcomputer 50 operates the motor 30 and the power transmission device 40 in the dehydration mode, thereby dehydrating the clothes in the washing machine (S40). the

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a washing machine control method according to a second embodiment of the present invention. the

For reference, a part of the structure and operation of the second embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus a detailed description thereof is omitted because it is not necessary. the

In the washing machine control method according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. 8, when the sensor assembly 16 detects the state or characteristics of water such as the conductivity and temperature of the water multiple times, and the display includes a single LED, only in the first detection operation The obtained detection result is displayed to the outside through the indicator 64 . the

In the case where the sensor assembly 16 performs the first detection operation, the LED is turned off during the first detection operation (S51, S52, and S53). the

Also, in the case where the sensor assembly 16 performs the second or third detection operation, the LED is turned on (S52 and S54). the

On the other hand, in the case where the sensor assembly 16 does not perform any detection operation, the LED is turned on (S51 and S54). the

That is, the user determines that the sensor assembly 16 is malfunctioning in the event that a driving component, such as a motor, stops or the operating speed changes while the sensor assembly 16 detects a state or characteristic of the water. As described above, when the LED is turned off only in the first detection operation, the user can easily determine that the sensor assembly 16 is in operation. the

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a washing machine control method according to a third embodiment of the present invention. the

For reference, a part of the structure and operation of the third embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus a detailed description thereof is omitted because it is not necessary. the

In the washing machine control method according to the third embodiment shown in FIG. 9, when the indicator includes a plurality of LEDs, in the case where the sensor assembly 16 performs the first detection operation, all the LEDs are turned off in the first detection operation (S61, S62 and S63). the

Also, in the case where the sensor assembly 16 performs the second or third detection operation, at least one of the plurality of LEDs is turned on (S62 and S64). the

On the other hand, in the case where the sensor assembly 16 does not perform any detection operation, at least one of the plurality of LEDs is turned on (S61 and S64). the

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a washing machine control method according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. the

For reference, a part of the structure and operation of the fourth embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus a detailed description thereof is omitted because it is not necessary. the

In the washing machine control method according to the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 10, when the display includes a dual (dual) LED that can represent a plurality of colors, in the case where the sensor assembly 16 performs the first detection operation, in the first detection The dual LED is turned off in operation to sequentially turn off the colors represented by the dual LED (S71, S72 and S73). the

In addition, in the case where the sensor assembly 16 performs the second or third detection operation, the dual LED is turned on to display one color. (S72 and S74). the

On the other hand, in the case where the sensor assembly 16 does not perform any detection operation, the dual LEDs are turned on to display a color (S71 and S74). the

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a washing machine control method according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. the

For reference, a part of the structure and operation of the fifth embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus a detailed description thereof is omitted because it is not necessary. the

In the washing machine control method according to the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 11, when the display includes dual LEDs that can represent multiple colors, the detection results and determination results of the displayed water state or characteristics are shown in Table 1 below. the

Table 1

In Table 1, the water temperature, water hardness and detergent amount are the results detected by the sensor assembly 16, and the washing time is determined by the laundry mode reset according to the state or characteristics of the water. the

In addition, when the dual LEDs represent 3 colors, the detection results and determination results of the displayed water state or characteristics are shown in Table 2 below. the

Table 2

In Table 2, in the same manner as Table 1, the temperature of the water, the hardness of the water and the amount of detergent are the results detected by the sensor assembly 16, and the laundry time is determined by the laundry mode reset according to the state or characteristics of the water of. the

As shown in Tables 1 and 2, the detection results and determination results of the state or characteristics of water displayed on the dual LEDs are changed according to the number of colors represented by the dual LEDs, and the dual LEDs are increased or decreased according to the use and necessity of the dual LEDs. The number of colors represented by the LED. the

In the washing machine control method according to the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the state or characteristics of water, that is, the conductivity and temperature of water are detected (S81). the

Thereafter, using the detected conductivity and temperature of the water, the hardness of the water is calculated, and the amount of detergent is calculated according to the hardness of the water (S82). the

After that, the temperature and hardness of the water and the detergent amount, which are detection results of the state or characteristics of the water, are compared with their corresponding predetermined values (S83). the

Results of comparing the temperature and hardness of the water and the amount of detergent with predetermined values are displayed on the corresponding dual LEDs, respectively (S84). the

Also, it is determined whether to reset the laundry mode based on the above obtained result (S85). the

When it is determined that the laundry mode is to be reset, the laundry time of the reset laundry mode is displayed on the remaining dual LEDs (S86). the

Industrial application

As seen above, the present invention provides a washing machine control method that calculates the amount of detergent in a washing operation, sets a washing mode according to the calculated amount of detergent, and performs a washing operation according to the set washing mode, thereby improving the washing ability of the washing machine. the

The control method of the present invention sets the laundry mode according to the amount of clothes, supplies water according to the set laundry mode, dissolves detergent in water, calculates the amount of detergent, resets the laundry mode according to the amount of detergent, and performs the laundry operation according to the reset laundry mode, thereby Calculate the exact amount of detergent to dissolve in water and use the best laundry mode to increase the washing power of your washing machine. the

The control method of the present invention calculates the amount of detergent multiple times, and performs a cleaning operation according to the calculated amount of detergent, thereby obtaining an optimal cleaning capability and minimizing water and energy consumption. the

The control method of the present invention measures the conductivity and temperature of water during the washing operation, calculates the hardness of the water based on the measured conductivity and temperature of the water, and considers the calculated hardness in the next operation of the washing machine, thereby obtaining the optimum Excellent laundry and cleaning power. the

The control method of the present invention displays the time of washing, cleaning and dehydration when the laundry mode is set, and displays the remaining time when the laundry mode is reset, so that the user can easily confirm the change in the time of completion of the laundry. the

The control method of the present invention indicates the detection operation of the sensor assembly through the indicator when the sensor assembly detects the state or characteristic of water, so that the user easily recognizes the operation of the sensor assembly, even if the manipulating part is stopped or the operating speed is changed during the detection operation of the sensor assembly, It is not possible to determine when the steering component has failed. the

In addition, the present invention provides a washing machine including a sensor assembly for detecting the state or characteristics of water contained in the washing machine, an indicator installed in the washing machine for indicating the operation of the sensor assembly to the outside, and a The microcomputer is used to control the indicator to indicate the detection operation of the sensor assembly to the outside when the sensor assembly detects the state or characteristics of the water, so that the user can confirm whether the sensor assembly has completed the detection operation. the

Furthermore, the present invention provides a washing machine including a sensor assembly for detecting the state or characteristics of water contained in the washing machine, an indicator installed in the washing machine for indicating the state or characteristics of the water detected by the relevant sensor assembly The characteristic data are indicated to the outside, and a microcomputer for controlling the indicator according to the detection result of the sensor unit, thereby allowing the user to confirm whether the sensor unit has completed the detection operation. the

Although the preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described for purposes of illustration, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and substitutions can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as described in the claims. the

Claims (11)

1. control method for washing machine comprises step:

(I) according to the clothes amount laundry pattern is set;

(II) carry out laundry operations according to the laundry pattern that is provided with in the step (I), calculate detergent amount, and reset the laundry pattern according to the detergent amount that is calculated; And

(III) carry out cleaning operation according to the laundry pattern of resetting,

Wherein step (II) comprises substep:

(i) supply water and dissolving detergent in water according to the laundry pattern that is provided with in the step (I);

(ii) at substep (i) afterwards, the hardness of water that institute calculates and stores during according to before washer operation is selected a table from a plurality of tables that comprise detergent amount; Measure the electrical conductivity of water and the temperature that wherein are dissolved with washing agent; And be input in the selected table by the electrical conductivity of water and the temperature that will wherein be dissolved with washing agent, calculate detergent amount, and reset the laundry pattern according to the detergent amount that is calculated; And

(iii) the laundry pattern of resetting in (ii) according to substep is carried out laundry operations, recomputates detergent amount, and resets the laundry pattern according to the detergent amount that recomputates.

2. control method according to claim 1,

Wherein in step (II), measuring the electrical conductivity of water that wherein is dissolved with washing agent and temperature when calculating detergent amount, institute's measured value of detergent amount is shown to the outside.

3. control method for washing machine comprises step:

(I) according to the clothes amount laundry pattern is set;

(II) carry out laundry operations according to the laundry pattern that is provided with in the step (I), calculate detergent amount, and reset the laundry pattern according to the detergent amount that is calculated; And

(III) carry out cleaning operation according to the laundry pattern of resetting, wherein step (II) comprises substep:

(i) according to before the washer operation time institute hardness of water calculating and store, from a plurality of tables that comprise detergent amount, select a table;

(ii) measure electrical conductivity of water and the temperature that wherein is dissolved with washing agent; And

(iii) be input in the selected table, calculate detergent amount by the electrical conductivity of water and the temperature that will wherein be dissolved with washing agent.

4. control method according to claim 3,

Wherein in step (II), when measuring the electrical conductivity of water that wherein is dissolved with washing agent and temperature, institute's measured value of detergent amount is shown to the outside.

5. control method for washing machine comprises step:

(I) according to the clothes amount laundry pattern is set;

(II) carry out laundry operations according to the laundry pattern that is provided with in the step (I), calculate detergent amount, and reset the laundry pattern according to the detergent amount that is calculated; And

(III) carry out cleaning operation according to the laundry pattern of resetting, wherein step (II) comprises substep:

(i) supply a part of water and dissolving detergent in the part water of being supplied according to the laundry pattern that is provided with in the step (I);

(ii) at substep (i) afterwards, the hardness of water that institute calculates and stores during according to before washer operation is selected a table from a plurality of tables that comprise detergent amount; Measure the electrical conductivity of water and the temperature that wherein are dissolved with washing agent; And be input in the selected table by the electrical conductivity of water and the temperature that will wherein be dissolved with washing agent, calculate detergent amount, and reset the laundry pattern according to the detergent amount that is calculated; And

(iii) the laundry pattern supply remainder water of resetting in (ii) according to substep and carry out laundry operations recomputates detergent amount, and resets the laundry pattern according to the detergent amount that recomputates.

6. control method according to claim 5,

Wherein in step (II), measuring the electrical conductivity of water that wherein is dissolved with washing agent and temperature when calculating detergent amount, institute's measured value of detergent amount is shown to the outside.

7. control method according to claim 5,

Wherein substep (i) is extremely (iii) repeated for several times, so that several stages of process provide remainder water.

8. according to any one described control method in the claim 1,3,5,

Wherein laundry pattern one of comprises in washing intensity, the water level that is provided, laundry time, wash number, scavenging period and the dewatering time at least.

9. according to any one described control method in the claim 1,3,5,

Wherein in step (III), electrical conductivity of water of during cleaning operation, measuring and temperature, and according to measured electrical conductivity of water and temperature computation hardness of water and storage to be used for next operation of washing machine.

10. according to any one described control method in the claim 1,3,5,

After wherein in step (I), the laundry pattern being set, laundry, cleaning and dewatering time are presented on the display according to the clothes amount.

11. according to any one described control method in the claim 1,3,5,

After wherein in step (II), resetting the laundry pattern, will be presented on the display corresponding remaining time with the laundry pattern of resetting.

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