WASHING MACHINE APPLIANCE AND A METHOD FOR OPERATING A WASHING MACHINE APPLIANCE

Abstract

A washing machine appliance and a method for operating a washing machine appliance are provided. The method includes initiating a learning cycle of the washing machine appliance. During the learning cycle, at least one of a flow rate and a temperature of a heated water supply, a flow rate and a temperature for a cold water supply and a drain rate of a drain pump is determined or established and stored within a memory of the washing machine appliance. The method can assist with improving a performance and/or efficiency of the washing machine appliance.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to washing machine appliances and methods for operating the same.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Washing machine appliances generally include a tub for containing wash fluid, e.g., water, detergent, and/or bleach. A drum is rotatably mounted within the tub and defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for washing. During operation of such washing machine appliances, wash fluid is directed into the tub and onto articles within the wash chamber of the drum.

Various factors can affect efficacy and/or efficiency of wash cycles with washing machine appliances. As an example, relatively hot wash fluid can be most effective for washing certain articles while relatively cold wash fluid can be most effective for washing other articles. However, forming wash fluid at a particular temperature can be difficult. In particular, a water heater that supplies heated water to the washing machine appliance in order to form hot wash fluid can be set to a variety of temperatures such that predicting a temperature of the hot wash fluid can be difficult.

As another example, a large volume of wash fluid can assist with washing relatively large loads of articles while only a small volume of wash fluid may be needed to wash relatively small loads of articles. However, a pressure of water entering the washing machine appliance can vary from one building to another such that predicting a flow rate of water entering the washing machine appliance can be difficult. Other factors can also affect wash cycle efficacy of washing machine appliances and can also be difficult to determine or control.

Certain washing machine appliances include flow conditioners or restrictors for regulating the pressure of water entering the washing machine appliances. However, such components can be difficult to manufacture and can add to an overall cost of the washing machine appliances. In particular, testing or confirming proper operation of such components can be difficult and/or expensive.

Accordingly, a method for improving operation or performance of washing machine appliances would be useful. In particular, a method for improving operation or performance of washing machine appliances by determining and/or regulating factors affecting operation or performance of the washing machine appliances would be useful. In addition, a method for improving operation or performance of washing machine appliances that also permits tolerances of various components of the washing machine appliances to be opened or loosened would be useful.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter provides a washing machine appliance and a method for operating a washing machine appliance. The method includes initiating a learning cycle of the washing machine appliance. During the learning cycle, at least one of a flow rate and a temperature of a heated water supply, a flow rate and a temperature for a cold water supply and a drain rate of a drain pump is determined or established and stored within a memory of the washing machine appliance. The method can assist with improving a performance and/or efficiency of the washing machine appliance. Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be apparent from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

In a first exemplary embodiment, a method for operating a washing machine appliance is provided. The method includes initiating a learning cycle of the washing machine appliance, determining a flow rate and a temperature of a heated water supply of the washing machine appliance during the learning cycle, establishing a flow rate and a temperature for a cold water supply the washing machine appliance during the learning cycle, ascertaining a drain rate of a drain pump of the washing machine during the learning cycle, and storing the flow rate of the heated water supply, the temperature of the heated water supply, the flow rate of the cold water supply, the temperature of the cold water supply and the drain rate of the drain pump in a memory of the washing machine appliance during the learning cycle.

In a second exemplary embodiment, a washing machine appliance is provided. The washing machine appliance includes a tub and a basket rotatably mounted within the tub. A motor is configured for selectively rotating the basket within the tub. A heated water supply conduit has an outlet positioned at the tub. The heated water supply conduit is configured for directing a flow of heated water into the tub at the outlet of the heated water supply conduit. A heated water supply valve is configured for regulating the flow of heated water though the heated water supply conduit. A drain conduit has an inlet positioned at the tub. A drain pump is configured for selectively urging a flow of liquid out of the tub through the drain conduit. A temperature sensor is positioned adjacent the tub. The temperature sensor is configured for measuring a temperature of liquid within the tub or in the heated water supply conduit. A controller is in operative communication with the motor, the heated water supply valve, the drain pump and the temperature sensor. The controller is configured for working the heated water supply valve in order to direct heated water into the tub though the outlet of the heated water conduit. A first volume of heated water is disposed within the tub after the step of actuating. The controller is also configured for measuring a temperature of the first volume of heated water with the temperature sensor, operating the drain pump in order to drain the first volume of heated water from the tub and actuating the heated water supply valve in order to direct heated water into the tub though the outlet of the heated water conduit. A second volume of heated water is disposed within the tub after the step of actuating. The controller is further configured for determining a heated water flow rate based at least in part on at least one of a time interval of the step of operating and a time interval of the step of actuating, gauging a temperature of the second volume of heated water with the temperature sensor, establishing a temperature of heated water within the heated water supply based at least in part on at least one of the temperature of the first volume of heated water and the temperature of the second volume of heated water, running the drain pump in order to drain the second volume of heated water from the tub, ascertaining a drain rate of the drain pump based at least in part on at least one of a time interval of the step of operating and a time interval of the step of running and storing the heated water flow rate, the temperature of heated water within the heated water supply and the drain rate within a memory of the controller.

In a third exemplary embodiment, a method for operating an appliance, is provided. The method includes initiating a learning cycle of the appliance, establishing an operational parameter of the appliance during the learning cycle, and storing the operational parameter of the appliance in a memory of the appliance during the learning cycle.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

FIG. 1 provides a front, elevation view of a washing machine appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter;

FIG. 2 provides a side, section view of the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 illustrates a method for operating a washing machine appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 4 illustrates a method for operating a washing machine appliance according to another exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

FIG. 1 provides a front, elevation view of an exemplary horizontal axis washing machine appliance 100. FIG. 2 provides a side, section view of washing machine appliance 100. As may be seen in FIG. 1, washing machine appliance 100 includes a cabinet 102 that extends between a top portion 103 and a bottom portion 105, e.g., along a vertical direction. Cabinet 102 also includes a front panel 104. A door 112 is mounted to front panel 104 and is rotatable about a hinge (not shown) between an open position facilitating access to a wash drum or basket 120 (FIG. 2) located within cabinet 102, and a closed position (shown in FIG. 1) hindering access to basket 120. A user may pull on a handle 113 in order to adjust door 112 between the open position and the closed position.

A control panel 108 including a plurality of input selectors 110 is coupled to front panel 104. Control panel 108 and input selectors 110 collectively form a user interface input for operator selection of machine cycles and features. For example, in one embodiment, a display 111 indicates selected features, a countdown timer, and/or other items of interest to machine users.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a tub 114 defines a wash compartment 119 configured for receipt of a washing fluid. Thus, tub 114 is configured for containing washing fluid, e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance 100. Washing fluid disposed within tub 114 may include at least one of water, fabric softener, bleach, and detergent. Tub 114 includes a back wall 116 and a sidewall 118 and also extends between a top 115 and a bottom 117, e.g., along the vertical direction.

Basket 120 is rotatably mounted within tub 114 in a spaced apart relationship from tub sidewall 118 and the tub back wall 116. Basket 120 defines a wash chamber 121 and an opening 122. Opening 122 of basket 120 permits access to wash chamber 121 of basket 120, e.g., in order to load articles into basket 120 and remove articles from basket 120. Basket 120 also defines a plurality of perforations 124 to facilitate fluid communication between an interior of basket 120 and tub 114. A sump 107 is defined by tub 114 and is configured for receipt of washing fluid during operation of washing machine appliance 100. For example, during operation of washing machine appliance 100, washing fluid may be urged by gravity from basket 120 to sump 107 through plurality of perforations 124.

A spout 130 is configured for directing a flow of fluid into tub 114. Spout 130 may be in fluid communication with at least one water supply in order to direct fluid (e.g., clean water) into tub 114. In particular, spout 130 is in fluid communication with a heated water supply 190, such as a hot water heater appliance, via a heated water conduit 194 and a cold water supply 192, such as a well or municipal water system, via a cold water conduit 196. Thus, spout 130 can receive and direct into tub 114 a flow of heated water from heated water supply 190 through heated water conduit 194 and/or a flow of cold water from cold water supply 192 through cold water conduit 196.

Heated water within heated water supply 190 can have any suitable temperature. For example, heated water within heated water supply 190 may have a temperature greater than about one hundred and ten degrees Fahrenheit, greater than about one hundred and twenty degrees Fahrenheit or greater than about one hundred and forty degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, heated water supply 190 can be configured to heat water to any suitable temperature.

Cold water within cold water supply 192 can also have any suitable temperature, e.g., such that cold water within cold water supply 192 is colder than heated water within heated water supply 190. For example, cold water within cold water supply 192 may have a temperature less than about one hundred degrees Fahrenheit, less than about eighty degrees Fahrenheit or less than about seventy degrees Fahrenheit. In particular, the temperature of cold water within cold water supply 192 may be about equal to an ambient temperature of a building housing washing machine appliance 100.

Heated water within heated water supply 190 can have any suitable flow rate. Cold water within cold water supply 192 can also have any suitable flow rate. For example, heated water within heated water supply 190 and/or cold water within cold water supply 192 may have a flow rate that is directly proportional to a pressure of water within cold water supply 192. Thus, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the flow rates of heated water supply 190 and/or cold water supply 192 can vary, e.g., depending upon the pressure of water within cold water supply 192.

Washing machine appliance 100 includes a heated water valve 182 and a cold water valve 184. Heated water valve 182 is coupled to and configured for regulating the flow of heated water through heated water conduit 194. For example, heated water valve 182 is selectively adjustable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the closed configuration, heated water valve 182 obstructs or blocks the flow of heated water though heated water conduit 194. Conversely, heated water valve 182 permits the flow of heated water though heated water conduit 194 in the open configuration.

Cold water valve 184 is coupled to and configured for regulating the flow of cold water through cold water conduit 196. For example, cold water valve 184 is selectively adjustable between an open arrangement and a closed arrangement. In the closed arrangement, cold water valve 184 obstructs or blocks the flow of cold water though cold water conduit 196. Conversely, cold water valve 184 permits the flow of cold water though cold water conduit 196 in the open arrangement.

It should be understood that washing machine appliance 100 is provided by way of example only and that the present subject matter may be used with any suitable washing machine appliance. In alternative exemplary embodiments, washing machine appliance 100 can be plumbed in any suitable manner. Thus, heated water valve 182 may be any valve configured for regulating a flow of heated water into tub 114, such as a detergent valve or a bleach valve. Similarly, cold water valve 184 may be any valve configured for regulating a flow of cold water into tub 114, such as the detergent valve or the bleach valve.

A drain pump or pump assembly 150 (shown schematically in FIG. 2) is located beneath tub 114 for draining tub 114 of fluid. Pump assembly 150 is in fluid communication with sump 107 of tub 114 via a conduit 170. Thus, conduit 170 directs fluid from tub 114 to pump assembly 150. Pump assembly 150 is also in fluid communication with a drain 140 via piping 174. Pump assembly 150 can urge fluid disposed in sump 107 to drain 140 during operation of washing machine appliance 100 in order to remove fluid from tub 114. Fluid received by drain 140 from pump assembly 150 is directed out of washing machine appliance 100, e.g., to a sewer or septic system. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, a drain rate of pump assembly 150 can vary, e.g., depending upon a vertical height of a drain line of a building housing washing machine appliance 100 relative to pump assembly 150 and/or a voltage or power applied to pump assembly 150.

In addition, pump assembly 150 is configured for recirculating washing fluid within tub 114. Thus, pump assembly 150 is configured for urging fluid from sump 107, e.g., to spout 130. For example, pump assembly 150 may urge washing fluid in sump 107 to spout 130 via hose 176 during operation of washing machine appliance 100 in order to assist in cleaning articles disposed in basket 120. It should be understood that conduit 170, piping 174, and hose 176 may be constructed of any suitable mechanism for directing fluid, e.g., a pipe, duct, conduit, hose, or tube, and are not limited to any particular type of mechanism.

A motor 128 is in mechanical communication with basket 120 in order to selectively rotate basket 120, e.g., during an agitation or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance 100 as described below. Ribs 126 extend from basket 120 into wash chamber 121. Ribs 126 assist agitation of articles disposed within wash chamber 121 during operation of washing machine appliance 100. For example, ribs 126 may lift articles disposed in basket 120 during rotation of basket 120.

A drawer 109 is slidably mounted within front panel 104. Drawer 109 receives a wash additive (solid or liquid) (e.g., detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable liquid) and directs the wash additive to wash compartment 119 during operation of washing machine appliance 100. Additionally, a reservoir 160 is disposed within cabinet 102. Reservoir 160 is also configured for receipt of wash additive for use during operation of washing machine appliance 100 (shown in FIG. 1). Reservoir 160 is sized such that a volume of wash additive sufficient for a plurality or multitude of wash cycles of washing machine appliance 100 may fill reservoir 160. Thus, for example, a user can fill reservoir 160 with wash additive and operate washing machine appliance 100 for a plurality of wash cycles without refilling reservoir 160 with wash additive. A reservoir pump 162 is configured for selective delivery of the wash additive from reservoir 160 to tub 114.

Operation of washing machine appliance 100 is controlled by a processing device or controller 180 that is operatively coupled to control panel 108 for user manipulation to select washing machine cycles and features. In response to user manipulation of control panel 108, controller 180 operates the various components of washing machine appliance 100 to execute selected machine cycles and features. For example, controller 180 is in operative communication with motor 128. Thus, controller 180 can selectively activate and operate motor 128, e.g., depending upon a cycle selected by a user of washing machine appliance 100.

Controller 180 may include a memory and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with washing machine cycles. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively, controller 180 may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and/or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software. Control panel 108 and other components of washing machine appliance 100 may be in communication with controller 180 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.

Washing machine appliance 100 also includes a temperature sensor 186. Temperature sensor 186 is mounted to tub 114, e.g., and positioned within wash compartment 119 of tub 114 at bottom 117 of tub 114. Temperature sensor 186 is configured for measuring a temperature of liquid in tub 114. Temperature sensor 186 can be any suitable temperature sensor. For example, temperature sensor 186 may be a thermistor, a thermocouple, etc. In alternative exemplary embodiments temperature sensor 186 can be mounted to any suitable component of washing machine appliance 100. For example, temperature sensor 186 may be mounted to or positioned at heated water conduit 194 or cold water conduit 196. As another example, temperature sensor 186 may be mounted to or positioned at spout 130.

In an illustrative example of operation of washing machine appliance 100, laundry items are loaded into basket 120, and washing operation is initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors 110. Tub 114 is filled with water and detergent to form a washing fluid. One or more valves, such as hot and cold water valves 182 and 184 (or the detergent drawer valve or the bleach valve), can be actuated by controller 180 to provide for filling tub 114 to the appropriate level for the amount of articles being washed. Once tub 114 is properly filled with washing fluid, the contents of basket 120 are agitated with ribs 126 for cleaning of laundry items in basket 120.

After the agitation phase of the wash cycle is completed, tub 114 is drained. Laundry articles can then be rinsed by again adding washing fluid to tub 114, depending on the particulars of the cleaning cycle selected by a user, ribs 126 may again provide agitation within wash chamber 121. One or more spin cycles may also be used. In particular, a spin cycle may be applied after the wash cycle and/or after the rinse cycle in order to wring washing fluid from the articles being washed. During a spin cycle, basket 120 is rotated at relatively high speeds.

While described in the context of a specific embodiment of horizontal axis washing machine appliance 100, using the teachings disclosed herein it will be understood that horizontal axis washing machine appliance 100 is provided by way of example only. Other washing machine appliances having different configurations, different appearances, and/or different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well, e.g., vertical axis washing machine appliances.

FIG. 3 illustrates a method 300 for operating a washing machine appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. Method 300 can be used to operate any suitable washing machine appliance. For example, method 300 may be used to operate washing machine appliance 100 (FIG. 1). In particular, controller 180 may be programmed or configured to implement method 300. Utilizing method 300, a performance and/or efficiency of washing machine appliance 100 can be improved, e.g., by storing various operational parameters of washing machine appliance 100 within memory of controller 180.

At step 310, a learning cycle of washing machine appliance 100 is initiated. The learning cycle of washing machine appliance 100 can be initiated at any suitable time. For example, controller 180 can initiate the learning cycle of washing machine appliance 100 when washing machine appliance 100 is installed or first activated. Thus, step 310 can be performed during installation of washing machine appliance 100 in a building.

At step 320, a flow rate and a temperature of heated water supply 190 is determined, e.g., during the learning cycle. As an example, controller 180 can actuate heated water valve 182 to the open configuration during step 320. With heated water valve 182 in the open configuration, heated water from heated water supply 190 can flow into tub 114 through heated water conduit 194. In such a manner, controller 180 can direct a volume of heated water from heated water supply 190 into tub 114 over a time interval at step 320.

In particular, when heated water from heated water supply 190 fills tub 114 to a predetermined height, controller 180 can adjust heated water valve 182 to the closed configuration. The predetermined height can be associated with the volume of heated water such that the volume of heated water is disposed within tub 114 when heated water from heated water supply 190 fills tub 114 to the predetermined height. Controller 180 can calculate the flow rate of heated water supply 190 based at least in part on the volume of heated water within tub 114 and the time interval. In particular, controller 180 can divide the volume of heated water within tub 114 by the time interval in order to determine the flow rate of heated water supply 190 at step 320.

As another example, controller 180 can actuate heated water valve 182 to the open configuration during step 320. With heated water valve 182 in the open configuration, heated water from heated water supply 190 can flow into tub 114 through heated water conduit 194. In such a manner, controller 180 can direct a first volume of heated water from heated water supply 190 into tub 114 at step 320. With the first volume of heated water disposed in tub 114, controller 180 can measure a temperature of the first volume of heated water in tub 114 with temperature sensor 186 in order to establish a transition temperature of heated water supply 190. The transition temperature of heated water supply 190 can correspond to a temperature of heated water from heated water supply 190 that includes a slug of relatively cold water from within heated water conduit 194 such that the slug of relatively cold water is at least a portion of the first volume of heated water. The slug of relatively cold water can form within heated water conduit 194 when heated water within heated water conduit 194 cools and approaches an ambient temperature around heated water conduit 194 over time. After establishing the transition temperature of heated water supply 190, controller 180 can activate pump assembly 150 in order to drain the first volume of heated water from tub 114 and remove the first volume of heated water from washing machine appliance 100 via drain 140.

After draining tub 114, controller 180 can refill tub 114 with heated water from heated water supply 190 by actuating heated water valve 182 to the open configuration. With heated water valve 182 in the open configuration, heated water from heated water supply 190 can flow into tub 114 through heated water conduit 194, and controller 180 can direct a second volume of heated water from heated water supply 190 into tub 114 at step 320. With the second volume of heated water disposed in tub 114, controller 180 can gauge a temperature of the second volume of heated water in tub 114 with temperature sensor 186 in order to establish a steady state temperature of heated water supply 190. The steady state temperature of heated water supply 190 can correspond to a temperature of heated water directly from heated water supply 190. Thus, after removing the slug of cold water from heated water conduit 194 with the first volume of heated water, controller 180 can direct the second volume of heated water into tub 114, e.g., in order to determine the temperature of heated water supply 190. It should be understood that step 320 can be repeated any suitable number of times to update or average the flow rate and/or the temperature of heated water supply 190.

At step 330, a flow rate and a temperature of cold water supply 192 is established, e.g., during the learning cycle. As an example, controller 180 can actuate cold water valve 184 to the open arrangement during step 330. With cold water valve 184 in the open arrangement, cold water from cold water supply 192 can flow into tub 114 through cold water conduit 196. In such a manner, controller 180 can direct a volume of cold water from cold water supply 192 into tub 114 over a time interval at step 330.

In particular, when cold water from cold water supply 192 fills tub 114 to a predetermined height, controller 180 can adjust cold water valve 184 to the closed arrangement. The predetermined height can be associated with the volume of cold water such that the volume of cold water is disposed within tub 114 when cold water from cold water supply 192 fills tub 114 to the predetermined height. Controller 180 can calculate the flow rate of cold water supply 192 based at least in part on the volume of cold water within tub 114 and the time interval. In particular, controller 180 can divide the volume of cold water within tub 114 by the time interval in order to determine the flow rate of cold water supply 192 at step 330.

As another example, controller 180 can actuate cold water valve 184 to the open arrangement during step 330. With cold water valve 184 in the open arrangement, cold water from cold water supply 192 can flow into tub 114 through cold water conduit 196. In such a manner, controller 180 can direct a first volume of cold water from cold water supply 192 into tub 114 at step 330. With the first volume of cold water disposed in tub 114, controller 180 can measure a temperature of the first volume of cold water in tub 114 with temperature sensor 186 in order to establish a transition temperature of cold water supply 192. The transition temperature of cold water supply 192 can correspond to a temperature of cold water from cold water supply 192 that includes a slug of ambient temperature water from within cold water conduit 196 such that the slug of ambient temperature water is at least a portion of the first volume of cold water. The slug of ambient temperature water can form within cold water conduit 196 when cold water within cold water conduit 196 approaches an ambient temperature around cold water conduit 196 over time. After establishing the transition temperature of cold water supply 192, controller 180 can activate pump assembly 150 in order to drain the first volume of cold water from tub 114 and remove the first volume of cold water from washing machine appliance 100 via drain 140.

After draining tub 114, controller 180 can refill tub 114 with cold water from cold water supply 192 by actuating cold water valve 184 to the open arrangement. With cold water valve 184 in the open arrangement, cold water from cold water supply 192 can flow into tub 114 through cold water conduit 196, and controller 180 can direct a second volume of cold water from cold water supply 192 into tub 114 at step 330. With the second volume of cold water disposed in tub 114, controller 180 can gauge a temperature of the second volume of cold water in tub 114 with temperature sensor 186 in order to establish a steady state temperature of cold water supply 192. The steady state temperature of cold water supply 192 can correspond to a temperature of cold water directly from cold water supply 192. Thus, after removing the first volume of cold water from cold water conduit 196, controller 180 can direct the second volume of cold water into tub 114, e.g., in order to determine the temperature of cold water supply 192. It should be understood that step 330 can be repeated any suitable number of times to update or average the flow rate and/or the temperature of cold water supply 192.

At step 340, a drain rate of pump assembly 150 is ascertained, e.g., during the learning cycle. As an example, controller 180 can actuate heated water valve 182 to the open configuration and/or cold water valve 184 to the open arrangement during step 340. With heated water valve 182 in the open configuration and/or cold water valve 184 in the open arrangement, water can flow into tub 114 through heated water conduit 194 and/or cold water conduit 196. In such a manner, controller 180 can direct a volume of water into tub 114 at step 340.

With the volume of water disposed in tub 114, controller 180 can activate pump assembly 150 to remove the volume of water from tub 114 with pump assembly 150 over a time interval. Controller 180 can establish the drain rate of pump assembly 150 based at least in part on the volume of water and the time interval. In particular, controller 180 can divide the volume of water by the time interval to ascertain the drain rate of pump assembly 150 at step 340. It should be understood that step 340 can be repeated any suitable number of times to update or average the drain rate of pump assembly 150.

It should be understood that steps 320, 330 and/or 340 need not be conducted or implemented in the order shown in FIG. 3. In alternative exemplary embodiments, steps 320, 330 and/or 340 may be conducted or implemented in any suitable order. In addition, in certain exemplary embodiments, steps 320, 330 and/or 340 are conducted or carried out simultaneously or concurrently, e.g., in order to reduce or minimize the number of fills and drains of tub 114.

At step 350, controller 180 stores, e.g., at least one of, the flow rate of heated water supply 190 determined at step 320, the temperature of heated water supply 190 determined at step 320, the flow rate of cold water supply 192 (e.g., the flow rate of liquid from cold water supply 192 into tub 114 after restrictions in cold water conduit 196) established at step 330, the temperature of cold water supply 192 established at step 330 and the drain rate of pump assembly 150 ascertained at step 340 in a memory of controller 180 or washing machine appliance 100. Thus, the learning cycle of washing machine appliance 100 can assist with determining or establishing a variety of operating parameters of washing machine appliance 100. As discussed above, temperatures and flow rates of heated water supply 190 and/or cold water supply 192 can vary from location to location. By establishing such operating parameters during a learning cycle of washing machine appliance 100, performance and/or efficiency of washing machine appliance 100 can be improved. In particular, a temperature and/or volume of wash fluid within tub 114 during operation of washing machine appliance 100 can be more accurately controlled or regulated using such stored operating parameters.

As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the operating parameters of washing machine appliance 100 can change over time, e.g., from season to season. Thus, method 300 can also include repeating steps 310, 320, 330, 340 and 350 after a period of time, e.g., seasonally, in order to update and/or replace the flow rate of heated water supply 190, the temperature of heated water supply 190, the flow rate of cold water supply 192, the temperature of cold water supply 192 and the drain rate of pump assembly 150 within the memory of controller 180 or washing machine appliance 100. In such a manner, the learning cycle of washing machine appliance 100 can be repeated to account for changes in the operating parameters of washing machine appliance 100.

Method 300 can also include calculating a load score of basket 120 or system drag of basket 120, e.g., during the learning cycle. In particular, the system drag on basket 120 can be calculated when basket 120 has no articles for washing therein. As an example, to calculate the system drag of basket 120, controller 180 can operate motor 128 in order to spin basket 120. With basket 120 spinning at a particular angular velocity, controller 180 can deactivate motor 128, e.g., by shorting windings of motor 128, and decrease the angular velocity of basket 120. After basket 120 decelerates, controller 180 can compute the system drag of basket 120 based at least in part on a change in inertia of basket 120. In particular, a magnitude of a first and/or second derivative of the angular velocity of basket 120 can be inversely proportional to the system drag of basket 120. Thus, controller 180 can correlate the magnitude of the first and/or second derivative of the angular velocity of basket 120 to the system drag of basket 120. As another example, the system drag of basket 120 can be calculated based upon the power delivered to motor 128 or the torque applied by motor 128 to basket 128. If the system drag of basket 120 is outside of an expected range, method 30 can include alerting a user of washing machine appliance 100.

Method 300 can also include verifying whether heated water supply 190 and cold water supply 192 are reversed. For example, if heated water conduit 194 is connected to cold water supply 192 and cold water conduit 196 is connected to heated water supply 190, heated water supply 190 and cold water supply 192 can be reversed and negatively affect performance and/or efficiency of washing machine appliance 100. Controller 180 can verify whether heated water supply 190 and cold water supply 192 are reversed, e.g., based at least in part on at least one of the temperature of heated water supply 190 determined at step 320 and the temperature of cold water supply 192 established at step 330. For example, controller 180 can comparing the temperature of heated water supply 190 determined at step 320 to a threshold temperature, e.g., about one hundred degrees Fahrenheit or about one hundred and twenty degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature of heated water supply 190 determined at step 320 does not exceed the threshold temperature, controller 180 can infer that heated water supply 190 and cold water supply 192 are reversed, e.g., and request a user of washing machine appliance 100 to reverse heated water supply 190 and cold water supply 192 by switching heated water conduit 194 and cold water conduit 196 or controller 180 can retitle heated water conduit 194 and cold water conduit 196 appropriately. As another example, controller 180 can comparing the temperature of cold water supply 192 established at step 330 to a threshold temperature, e.g., about eighty degrees Fahrenheit or about seventy degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature of cold water supply 192 established at step 330 exceeds the threshold temperature, controller 180 can infer that heated water supply 190 and cold water supply 192 are reversed, e.g., and request a user of washing machine appliance 100 to reverse heated water supply 190 and cold water supply 192 by switching heated water conduit 194 and cold water conduit 196 or controller 180 can retitle heated water conduit 194 and cold water conduit 196 appropriately. As another example, controller 180 can comparing the temperature of cold water supply 192 established at step 330 to the temperature of heated water supply 190 determined at step 320. If the temperature of cold water supply 192 established at step 330 is greater than the temperature of heated water supply 190 determined at step 320, controller 180 can infer that heated water supply 190 and cold water supply 192 are reversed, e.g., and request a user of washing machine appliance 100 to reverse heated water supply 190 and cold water supply 192 by switching heated water conduit 194 and cold water conduit 196 or controller 180 can retitle heated water conduit 194 and cold water conduit 196 appropriately.

FIG. 4 illustrates a method 400 for operating a washing machine appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. Method 400 can be used to operate any suitable washing machine appliance. For example, method 400 may be used to operate washing machine appliance 100 (FIG. 1). In particular, controller 180 may be programmed or configured to implement method 400. Utilizing method 400, a performance and/or efficiency of washing machine appliance 100 can be improved, e.g., by storing various operational parameters of washing machine appliance 100 within memory of controller 180.

At step 410, a learning cycle of washing machine appliance 100 is initiated. The learning cycle of washing machine appliance 100 can be initiated at any suitable time. For example, controller 180 can initiate the learning cycle of washing machine appliance 100 when washing machine appliance 100 is installed or first activated. Thus, step 410 can be performed during installation of washing machine appliance 100 in a building.

At step 415, controller 180 works heated water valve 182 in order to direct heated water into tub 114 though heated water conduit 194 e.g., such that a first volume of heated water is disposed within tub 114 after step 415. As another example, controller 180 can actuate heated water valve 182 to the open configuration during step 415. With heated water valve 182 in the open configuration, heated water from heated water supply 190 can flow into tub 114 through heated water conduit 194. In such a manner, controller 180 can direct the first volume of heated water from heated water supply 190 into tub 114 at step 415.

With the first volume of heated water disposed in tub 114, controller 180 can measure a temperature of the first volume of heated water in tub 114 with temperature sensor 186 at step 420, e.g., in order to establish the transition temperature of heated water supply 190. At step 425, controller 180 operates pump assembly 150 in order to drain the first volume of heated water from tub 114 and remove the first volume of heated water from washing machine appliance 100 via drain 140.

At step 430, controller 180 actuates heated water valve 182 in order to direct heated water into tub 114 though heated water conduit 194, e.g., such that a second volume of heated water is disposed within tub 114 after step 430. As an example, after draining tub 114 at step 425, controller 180 can refill tub 114 with heated water from heated water supply 190 by actuating heated water valve 182 to the open configuration. With heated water valve 182 in the open configuration, heated water from heated water supply 190 can flow into tub 114 through heated water conduit 194 until the second volume of heated water from heated water supply 190 is disposed in tub 114.

At step 435, controller 180 determines a heated water flow rate, e.g., into tub 114, based at least in part on at least one of a time interval of step 415 and a time interval of step 430. As an example, controller 180 can divide the first volume of heated water by the time interval of step 415 or the second volume of heated water by the time interval of step 430 in order to determine the heated water flow rate. It should be understood that steps 415, 430 and 435 can be repeated any suitable number of times to update, replace and/or average the flow rate of heated water supply 190.

With the second volume of heated water disposed in tub 114, controller 180 also gauges a temperature of the second volume of heated water in tub 114 with temperature sensor 186 at step 440, e.g., in order to establish the steady state temperature of heated water supply 190. At step 445, controller 180 establishes the temperature of heated water within heated water supply 190 based at least in part on at least one of the temperature of the first volume of heated water measured at step 420 and the temperature of the second volume of heated water gauged at step 445. As an example, controller 180 can establish the transition and steady state temperature of heated water supply 190 at step 445, e.g., in the manner discussed above. It should be understood that steps 420, 440 and 445 can be repeated any suitable number of times to update, replace and/or average the temperature of heated water within heated water supply 190.

At step 450, controller 180 runs pump assembly 150 in order to drain the second volume of heated water from tub 114 and remove the second volume of heated water from washing machine appliance 100 via drain 140. Controller 180 also ascertains a drain rate of pump assembly 150 at step 460, e.g., based at least in part on at least one of a time interval of step 425 and a time interval of step 450. As an example, controller 180 can divide the first volume of heated water by the time interval of step 425 or the second volume of heated water by the time interval of step 450 in order to determine the drain rate at step 460. It should be understood that steps 425, 450 and 460 can be repeated any suitable number of times to update, replace and/or average the drain rate of pump assembly 150.

At step 465, controller 180 stores the heated water flow rate, the temperature of heated water within heated water supply 190 and the drain rate within a memory of controller 180. Thus, the learning cycle of washing machine appliance 100 can assist with determining or establishing a variety of operating parameters of washing machine appliance 100. As discussed above, temperatures and flow rates of heated water supply 190 can vary from location to location. By establishing such operating parameters during a learning cycle of washing machine appliance 100, performance and/or efficiency of washing machine appliance 100 can be improved. In particular, a temperature and/or volume of wash fluid within tub 114 during operation of washing machine appliance 100 can be more accurately controlled or regulated using such operating parameters stored within the memory of controller 180. It should be understood that steps 415, 420, 425, 430, 435, 440, 445, 450 and 465 can be modified and repeated to for cold water supply 192 in order to establish or determine the cold water flow rate and a temperature of cold water within cold water supply 192.

While presented and described in the context of washing machine appliance 100, the present subject matter can be used in any suitable appliance. For example, the present subject matter may be used in vertical axis washing machine appliance, dishwasher appliances, refrigerator appliances, dryer appliances, etc.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for operating a washing machine appliance, comprising:

initiating a learning cycle of the washing machine appliance;

determining a flow rate and a temperature of a heated water supply of the washing machine appliance during the learning cycle;

establishing a flow rate and a temperature for a cold water supply the washing machine appliance during the learning cycle;

ascertaining a drain rate of a drain pump of the washing machine during the learning cycle; and

storing the flow rate of the heated water supply, the temperature of the heated water supply, the flow rate of the cold water supply, the temperature of the cold water supply and the drain rate of the drain pump in a memory of the washing machine appliance during the learning cycle.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising calculating a system drag of a basket of the washing machine appliance during the learning cycle, the basket having no articles for washing therein during said step of calculating.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein said step of calculating comprises:

spinning the basket with a motor of the washing machine appliance;

decreasing an angular velocity of the basket after said step of spinning; and

computing the system drag of the basket based at least in part on a change in inertia of the basket during said step of decreasing.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein said step of determining comprises:

directing a volume of heated water from the heated water supply into a tub of the washing machine appliance over a time interval; and

calculating the flow rate of the heated water supply based at least in part on the volume of heated water and the time interval.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein said step of determining comprises:

directing a first volume of heated water from the heated water supply into a tub of the washing machine appliance; and

measuring a temperature of the first volume of heated water in order to establish a transition temperature of the heated water supply.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein said step of determining further comprises:

draining the first volume of heated water from the tub;

refilling the tub with a second volume of heated water from the heated water supply after said step of draining;

gauging a temperature of the second volume of heated water in order to establish a steady state temperature of the heated water supply.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein said step of establishing comprises:

directing a volume of cold water from the cold water supply into a tub of the washing machine appliance over a time interval; and

calculating the flow rate of the cold water supply based at least in part on the volume of cold water and the time interval.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein said step of establishing comprises:

directing a first volume of cold water from the cold water supply into a tub of the washing machine appliance; and

measuring a temperature of the first volume of cold water in the tub in order to establish a transition temperature of the cold water supply.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein said step of establishing further comprises:

draining the first volume of cold water from the tub;

refilling the tub with a second volume of cold water from the cold water supply after said step of draining;

gauging a temperature of the second volume of cold water in the tub in order to establish a steady state temperature of the cold water supply.

10. The method of claim 1, further comprising verifying whether the heated water supply and the cold water supply are reversed based at least in part on at least one of the temperature of the heated water supply and the temperature of the cold water supply.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein said step of verifying comprises:

comparing the temperature of the heated water supply to a threshold temperature; and

reversing the heated water supply and the cold water supply if the temperature of the heated water supply does not exceed the threshold temperature at said step of comparing.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein said step of verifying comprises:

comparing the temperature of the cold water supply to a threshold temperature; and

reversing the heated water supply and the cold water supply if the temperature of the cold water supply exceeds the threshold temperature at said step of comparing.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein said step of ascertaining comprises:

directing a volume of water from at least one of the heated water supply and the cold water supply into a tub of the washing machine appliance;

removing the volume of water from the tub with a drain pump of the washing machine appliance over a time interval; and

establishing a drain rate of the drain pump based at least in part on the volume of water and the time interval.

14. The method of claim 1, further comprising repeating said steps of initiating, determining, establishing, ascertaining and storing after a period of time in order to update the flow rate of the heated water supply, the temperature of the heated water supply, the flow rate of the cold water supply, the temperature of the cold water supply and the drain rate of the drain pump within the memory of the washing machine appliance.

15. The method of claim 1, wherein said step of initiating comprises initiating the learning cycle of the washing machine appliance during installation of the washing machine appliance.

16. A washing machine appliance, comprising:

a tub;

a basket rotatably mounted within the tub;

a motor configured for selectively rotating the basket within the tub;

a heated water supply conduit having an outlet positioned at the tub, the heated water supply conduit configured for directing a flow of heated water into the tub at the outlet of the heated water supply conduit;

a heated water supply valve configured for regulating the flow of heated water though the heated water supply conduit;

a drain conduit having an inlet positioned at the tub;

a drain pump configured for selectively urging a flow of liquid out of the tub through the drain conduit;

a temperature sensor positioned proximate the tub, the temperature sensor configured for measuring a temperature of liquid within the tub or within the heated water supply conduit; and

a controller in operative communication with the motor, the heated water supply valve, the drain pump and the temperature sensor, the controller configured for working the heated water supply valve in order to direct heated water into the tub though the outlet of the heated water conduit, a first volume of heated water being disposed within the tub after said step of actuating; measuring a temperature of the first volume of heated water with the temperature sensor; operating the drain pump in order to drain the first volume of heated water from the tub; actuating the heated water supply valve in order to direct heated water into the tub though the outlet of the heated water conduit, a second volume of heated water being disposed within the tub after said step of actuating; determining a heated water flow rate based at least in part on at least one of a time interval of said step of working and a time interval of said step of actuating; gauging a temperature of the second volume of heated water with the temperature sensor; establishing a temperature of heated water within the heated water supply based at least in part on at least one of the temperature of the first volume of heated water and the temperature of the second volume of heated water; running the drain pump in order to drain the second volume of heated water from the tub; ascertaining a drain rate of the drain pump based at least in part on at least one of a time interval of said step of operating and a time interval of said step of running; and storing the heated water flow rate, the temperature of heated water within the heated water supply and the drain rate within a memory of the controller.

17. The appliance of claim 13, wherein the controller is further configured for:

repeating said steps of working, measuring, operating, actuating, determining, gauging, establishing, running, ascertaining and storing after a period of time in order to update the heated water flow rate, the temperature of heated water within the heated water supply and the drain rate within the memory of the washing machine appliance.

18. A method for operating an appliance, comprising:

initiating a learning cycle of the appliance;

establishing an operational parameter of the appliance during the learning cycle; and

storing the operational parameter of the appliance in a memory of the appliance during the learning cycle.