ADAPTIVE SELF CLEAN CYCLE IN A LAUNDRY APPLIANCE

Abstract

A laundry appliance includes a basket rotatably mounted within a tub, a motor assembly for selectively rotating the basket, and a wash fluid dispenser for selectively providing a flow of wash fluid into the tub. A controller is configured to receive a command to initiate a self-clean cycle, determine that a cycle adjustment condition exists based at least in part on historical data related to the performance of self-clean cycles, generate a set of adjusted self-clean cycle parameters by adjusting an operating parameter of the self-clean cycle, and perform the self-clean cycle in accordance with the adjusted self-clean cycle parameters.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to self-clean cycles in laundry appliances, or more specifically, to methods of adapting the parameters of the self-clean cycle of a laundry appliance for improved cleaning.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Washing machine appliances generally include a tub for containing water or wash fluid, e.g., water and detergent, bleach, and/or other wash additives. A basket is rotatably mounted within the tub and defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for washing. During normal operation of such washing machine appliances, the wash fluid is directed into the tub and onto articles within the wash chamber of the basket. The basket or an agitation element can rotate at various speeds to agitate articles within the wash chamber, to wring wash fluid from articles within the wash chamber, etc. During a spin or drain cycle of a washing machine appliance, a drain pump assembly may operate to discharge water from within sump.

Notably, when the wash or rinse cycle is completed, excess wash fluid commonly collects in a bottom of the tub, within the door gasket, on internal surfaces, etc. Because the wash tub is partially or substantially sealed, this wash fluid remains in the tub until the next wash or rinse cycle and the humidity remains relatively constant between cycles. Such collected wash fluid, excessive humidity, and moisture may contribute to mold, mildew, or foul smells. In order to eliminate these issues, conventional appliances include preprogrammed self-clean cycles that should be performed to clean the various surfaces and components of the appliance.

However, these self-clean cycles are frequently not initiated at desirable intervals, e.g., because the user forgets to initiate such a cycle, because the user only remembers to run the cycle when clothes are inside the chamber, etc. Accordingly, the amount of build-up when a self-cycle runs may vary significantly, and the self-clean cycle parameters for the self-clean cycle are often fixed or not customized to address the particular cleaning needs resulting from the use of the appliance.

Accordingly, a laundry appliance including features and operating methods for performing self-clean cycles would be desirable. More specifically, a method for improving the performance of self-clean cycles would be particularly beneficial.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

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 one exemplary embodiment, a laundry appliance is provided including a cabinet, a tub positioned within the cabinet, a basket rotatably mounted within the tub and defining a chamber configured for receiving a load of clothes, and a controller. The controller is configured to receive a command to initiate a self-clean cycle, determine that a cycle adjustment condition exists based at least in part on historical data related to the performance of self-clean cycles, adjust at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle, based at least in part on determining that the cycle adjustment condition exists, to generate a set of adjusted self-clean cycle parameters, and perform the self-clean cycle in accordance with the adjusted self-clean cycle parameters.

In another exemplary embodiment, a method of operating a laundry appliance is provided. The laundry appliance includes a tub positioned within a cabinet and a basket rotatably mounted within the tub and defining a chamber configured for receiving a load of clothes. The method includes receiving a command to initiate a self-clean cycle, determining that a cycle adjustment condition exists based at least in part on historical data related to the performance of self-clean cycles, adjusting at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle, based at least in part on determining that the cycle adjustment condition exists, to generate a set of adjusted self-clean cycle parameters, and performing the self-clean cycle in accordance with the adjusted self-clean cycle parameters.

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 perspective view of an exemplary washing machine appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 2 provides a side cross-sectional view of the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 illustrates a method for operating a washing machine appliance in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 provides a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process for adjusting the parameters of a self-clean cycle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.

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.

As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “includes” and “including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, is applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. For example, the approximating language may refer to being within a 10 percent margin.

Referring now to the figures, an exemplary laundry appliance that may be used to implement aspects of the present subject matter will be described. Specifically, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary horizontal axis washing machine appliance 100 and FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of washing machine appliance 100. As illustrated, washing machine appliance 100 generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is generally defined. Washing machine appliance 100 includes a cabinet 102 that extends between a top 104 and a bottom 106 along the vertical direction V, between a left side 108 and a right side 110 along the lateral direction, and between a front 112 and a rear 114 along the transverse direction T.

Referring to FIG. 2, a wash basket 120 is rotatably mounted within cabinet 102 such that it is rotatable about an axis of rotation A. A motor 122, e.g., such as a pancake motor, is in mechanical communication with wash basket 120 to selectively rotate wash basket 120 (e.g., during an agitation or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance 100). Wash basket 120 is received within a wash tub 124 and defines a wash chamber 126 that is configured for receipt of articles for washing. The wash tub 124 holds wash and rinse fluids for agitation in wash basket 120 within wash tub 124. As used herein, “wash fluid” may refer to water, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable wash additive or combination thereof. Indeed, for simplicity of discussion, these terms may all be used interchangeably herein without limiting the present subject matter to any particular “wash fluid.”

Wash basket 120 may define one or more agitator features that extend into wash chamber 126 to assist in agitation and cleaning articles disposed within wash chamber 126 during operation of washing machine appliance 100. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a plurality of ribs 128 extends from basket 120 into wash chamber 126. In this manner, for example, ribs 128 may lift articles disposed in wash basket 120 during rotation of wash basket 120.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1 and 2, cabinet 102 also includes a front panel 130 which defines an opening 132 that permits user access to wash basket 120 of wash tub 124. More specifically, washing machine appliance 100 includes a door 134 that is positioned over opening 132 and is rotatably mounted to front panel 130. In this manner, door 134 permits selective access to opening 132 by being movable between an open position (not shown) facilitating access to a wash tub 124 and a closed position (FIG. 1) prohibiting access to wash tub 124.

A window 136 in door 134 permits viewing of wash basket 120 when door 134 is in the closed position, e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance 100. Door 134 also includes a handle (not shown) that, e.g., a user may pull when opening and closing door 134. Further, although door 134 is illustrated as mounted to front panel 130, it should be appreciated that door 134 may be mounted to another side of cabinet 102 or any other suitable support according to alternative embodiments. Washing machine appliance 100 may further include a latch assembly 138 (see FIG. 1) that is mounted to cabinet 102 and/or door 134 for selectively locking door 134 in the closed position and/or confirming that the door is in the closed position. Latch assembly 138 may be desirable, for example, to ensure only secured access to wash chamber 126 or to otherwise ensure and verify that door 134 is closed during certain operating cycles or events.

Referring again to FIG. 2, wash basket 120 also defines a plurality of perforations 140 in order to facilitate fluid communication between an interior of basket 120 and wash tub 124. A sump 142 is defined by wash tub 124 at a bottom of wash tub 124 along the vertical direction V. Thus, sump 142 is configured for receipt of and generally collects wash fluid during operation of washing machine appliance 100. For example, during operation of washing machine appliance 100, wash fluid may be urged by gravity from basket 120 to sump 142 through plurality of perforations 140.

A drain pump assembly 144 is located beneath wash tub 124 and is in fluid communication with sump 142 for periodically discharging soiled wash fluid from washing machine appliance 100. Drain pump assembly 144 may generally include a drain pump 146 which is in fluid communication with sump 142 and with an external drain 148 through a drain hose 150. During a drain cycle, drain pump 146 urges a flow of wash fluid from sump 142, through drain hose 150, and to external drain 148. More specifically, drain pump 146 includes a motor (not shown) which is energized during a drain cycle such that drain pump 146 draws wash fluid from sump 142 and urges it through drain hose 150 to external drain 148.

Washing machine appliance 100 may further includes a wash fluid dispenser that is generally configured for dispensing a flow of water, wash fluid, etc. into wash tub 124. For example, a spout 152 is configured for directing a flow of fluid into wash tub 124. For example, spout 152 may be in fluid communication with a water supply 154 (FIG. 2) in order to direct fluid (e.g., clean water or wash fluid) into wash tub 124. Spout 152 may also be in fluid communication with the sump 142. For example, pump assembly 144 may direct wash fluid disposed in sump 142 to spout 152 in order to circulate wash fluid in wash tub 124.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, a detergent drawer 156 is slidably mounted within front panel 130. Detergent drawer 156 receives a wash additive (e.g., detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable liquid or powder) and directs the fluid additive to wash tub 124 during operation of washing machine appliance 100. According to the illustrated embodiment, detergent drawer 156 may also be fluidly coupled to spout 152 to facilitate the complete and accurate dispensing of wash additive. It should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, these wash additives could be dispensed automatically via a bulk dispensing unit (not shown). Other systems and methods for providing wash additives are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter.

In addition, a water supply valve 158 may provide a flow of water from a water supply source (such as a municipal water supply 154) into detergent dispenser 156 and into wash tub 124. In this manner, water supply valve 158 may generally be operable to supply water into detergent dispenser 156 to generate a wash fluid, e.g., for use in a wash cycle, or a flow of fresh water, e.g., for a rinse cycle. It should be appreciated that water supply valve 158 may be positioned at any other suitable location within cabinet 102. In addition, although water supply valve 158 is described herein as regulating the flow of “wash fluid,” it should be appreciated that this term includes, water, detergent, other additives, or some mixture thereof.

A control panel 160 including a plurality of input selectors 162 is coupled to front panel 130. Control panel 160 and input selectors 162 collectively form a user interface input for operator selection of machine cycles and features. For example, in one embodiment, a display 164 indicates selected features, a countdown timer, and/or other items of interest to machine users. Operation of washing machine appliance 100 is controlled by a controller or processing device 166 (FIG. 1) that is operatively coupled to control panel 160 for user manipulation to select washing machine cycles and features. In response to user manipulation of control panel 160, controller 166 operates the various components of washing machine appliance 100 to execute selected machine cycles and features.

Controller 166 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 a cleaning cycle. 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 166 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 160 and other components of washing machine appliance 100 may be in communication with controller 166 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.

During operation of washing machine appliance 100, laundry items are loaded into wash basket 120 through opening 132, and washing operation is initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors 162. Wash tub 124 is filled with water, detergent, and/or other fluid additives, e.g., via spout 152 and/or detergent drawer 156. One or more valves (e.g., water supply valve 158) can be controlled by washing machine appliance 100 to provide for filling wash basket 120 to the appropriate level for the amount of articles being washed and/or rinsed. By way of example for a wash mode, once wash basket 120 is properly filled with fluid, the contents of wash basket 120 can be agitated (e.g., with ribs 128) for washing of laundry items in wash basket 120.

After the agitation phase of the wash cycle is completed, wash tub 124 can be drained. Laundry articles can then be rinsed by again adding fluid to wash tub 124, depending on the particulars of the cleaning cycle selected by a user. Ribs 128 may again provide agitation within wash basket 120. 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 wash fluid from the articles being washed. During a final spin cycle, basket 120 is rotated at relatively high speeds and drain assembly 144 may discharge wash fluid from sump 142. After articles disposed in wash basket 120 are cleaned, washed, and/or rinsed, the user can remove the articles from wash basket 120, e.g., by opening door 134 and reaching into wash basket 120 through opening 132.

According to exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter, washing machine appliance 100 may further include a basket speed sensor 186 (FIG. 2) that is generally configured for determining a basket speed of wash basket 120. In this regard, for example, basket speed sensor 186 may be an optical, tactile, or electromagnetic speed sensor that measures a motor shaft speed (e.g., such as a tachometer, hall-effect sensor, etc.). According to still other embodiments, basket speeds may be determined by measuring a motor frequency, a back electromotive force (EMF) on motor 122, or a motor shaft speed in any other suitable manner. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that according to exemplary embodiments, a physical basket speed sensor 186 is not needed, as electromotive force and motor frequency may be determined by controller 166 without needing a physical speed sensor. It should be appreciated that other systems and methods for monitoring basket speeds may be used while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

Notably, controller 166 of washing machine appliance 100 (or any other suitable dedicated controller) may be communicatively coupled to motor 122, water supply valve 158, and other components of washing machine appliance 100. As explained in more detail below, controller 166 may be programmed or configured for monitoring the performance frequency of self-clean cycles and adjusting cycle parameters of the self-clean cycles to improve overall cleaning performance.

Referring still to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of an external communication system 190 will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. In general, external communication system 190 is configured for permitting interaction, data transfer, and other communications with washing machine appliance 100. For example, this communication may be used to provide and receive operating parameters, cycle settings, performance characteristics, user preferences, user notifications, or any other suitable information for improved performance of washing machine appliance 100.

External communication system 190 permits controller 166 of washing machine appliance 100 to communicate with external devices either directly or through a network 192. For example, a consumer may use a consumer device 194 to communicate directly with washing machine appliance 100. For example, consumer devices 194 may be in direct or indirect communication with washing machine appliance 100, e.g., directly through a local area network (LAN), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc. or indirectly through network 192. In general, consumer device 194 may be any suitable device for providing and/or receiving communications or commands from a user. In this regard, consumer device 194 may include, for example, a personal phone, a tablet, a laptop computer, or another mobile device.

In addition, a remote server 196 may be in communication with washing machine appliance 100 and/or consumer device 194 through network 192. In this regard, for example, remote server 196 may be a cloud-based server 196, and is thus located at a distant location, such as in a separate state, country, etc. In general, communication between the remote server 196 and the client devices may be carried via a network interface using any type of wireless connection, using a variety of communication protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, HTTP, SMTP, FTP), encodings or formats (e.g. HTML, XML), and/or protection schemes (e.g. VPN, secure HTTP, SSL).

In general, network 192 can be any type of communication network. For example, network 192 can include one or more of a wireless network, a wired network, a personal area network, a local area network, a wide area network, the internet, a cellular network, etc. According to an exemplary embodiment, consumer device 194 may communicate with a remote server 196 over network 192, such as the internet, to provide user inputs, transfer operating parameters or performance characteristics, receive user notifications or instructions, etc. In addition, consumer device 194 and remote server 196 may communicate with washing machine appliance 100 to communicate similar information.

External communication system 190 is described herein according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. However, it should be appreciated that the exemplary functions and configurations of external communication system 190 provided herein are used only as examples to facilitate description of aspects of the present subject matter. System configurations may vary, other communication devices may be used to communicate directly or indirectly with one or more laundry appliances, other communication protocols and steps may be implemented, etc. These variations and modifications are contemplated as within the scope of the present subject matter.

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. In addition, aspects of the present subject matter may be utilized in a combination washer/dryer appliance. Indeed, it should be appreciated that aspects of the present subject matter may further apply to other laundry appliances, such a dryer appliance. In this regard, the same methods and systems as described herein may be used to identify situations where the parameters of the self-clean cycle could be adjusted for improved cleaning in other appliances, such as a dryer appliance.

Now that the construction of washing machine appliance 100 and the configuration of controller 166 according to exemplary embodiments have been presented, an exemplary method 200 of operating a washing machine appliance will be described. Although the discussion below refers to the exemplary method 200 of operating washing machine appliance 100, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the exemplary method 200 is applicable to the operation of a variety of other washing machine appliances, such as vertical axis washing machine appliances. In exemplary embodiments, the various method steps as disclosed herein may be performed by controller 166 or a separate, dedicated controller.

Referring now to FIG. 3, method 200 includes, at step 210, receiving a command to initiate a self-clean cycle of a laundry appliance. In this regard, continuing the example from above, a self-clean cycle of washing machine appliance 100 may be initiated by a user of the appliance, e.g., through manipulation of control panel 160 or one or more input selectors 162, by using a software application on remote device 194, or in any other suitable manner. In addition, according to exemplary embodiments, the command to initiate a self-clean cycle may be periodically generated by controller 166. In this regard, washing machine appliance 100 may be configured for periodically prompting the performance of a self-clean cycle. According to exemplary embodiments, the self-clean cycle may be initiated in response to such prompts automatically, upon user confirmation, etc. It should be appreciated that other manners of receiving commands to initiate a self-clean cycle are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter.

It should be appreciated that as used herein, the “self-cleaning cycle” may generally refer to any series or sequences of operations of washing machine appliance 100 that are intended to clean washing machine appliance 100. In this regard, these self-clean procedures may be performed when there are no clothes within wash chamber 126. In addition, this self-cleaning cycle may include the introduction of a particular type of self-cleaning detergent, or may include standard wash fluid, wash additives, or other detergent. In addition, according to exemplary embodiments, the self-clean cycle may include providing a flow of water or wash fluid at an elevated temperature, pressure, or for an extended period of time as might be needed to clean wash machine appliance 100. In addition, drum rotation profiles and speeds may be adjusted relative to standard operating cycles, etc.

Notably, standard parameters of a self-clean cycle are commonly programmed into controller 166 of washing machine appliance 100. For example, these “standard parameters” may be selected by the user or manufacturer to be suitable for performing a cleaning process under normal operating conditions to achieve desired cleaning performance. For example, these standard self-clean parameters may include an amount of water or wash fluid to be added to wash tub 124, the sequence in which the wash fluid is added, other additives which may be added, the temperature of the wash fluid when added, etc. In addition, these standard self-clean parameters may include rotation profiles for wash basket 126, spin speeds, operating sequences, etc. Other self-clean parameters are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter.

Notably, however, these standard self-clean parameters are optimized for cleaning the appliance under assumed conditions based on specified cleaning frequencies. In this regard, self-clean cycles are typically preferably run at fixed intervals, e.g., to remove build-up or grime formed during each particular interval. For example, it may be desirable to run a self-clean cycle once every week, once every two weeks, once every month, or at any other suitable time interval. In addition, or alternatively, it may be desirable to run a self-clean cycle after a predetermined number of wash cycles has been performed (e.g., regardless of the time interval therebetween). For example, it may be desirable to run a self-cleaning cycle at least once every 10 wash cycles, 20 wash cycles, 30 wash cycles, 40 wash cycles, 50 wash cycles, etc. According to exemplary embodiments, these desired cleaning intervals may be set by a user of the appliance, e.g., through interaction with control panel 160, through a software application on a remote device 194, etc. Alternatively, these intervals may be programmed by the appliance manufacturer or may be determined in any other suitable manner. However, as explained above, users commonly fail to perform self-clean cycles according to such schedules. As such, aspects of the present subject matter are directed to methods of adjusting operating parameters of the self-clean cycle in order to compensate for actual historical data associated with self-clean cycles.

Accordingly, step 220 generally includes determining that a cycle adjustment condition exists based at least in part on historical data related to the performance of self-clean cycles. In this regard, for example, this historical data may relate to the passage of a predetermined amount of time since the prior self-cleaning cycle or the performance of a predetermined number of operating cycles since the prior self-cleaning cycle. In general, the more cycles that have been run and the longer the time since the last self-cleaning cycle, the more rigorous and extensive the self-cleaning process should be to achieve desired cleanliness.

As such, step 220 of determining that the cycle adjustment condition exists may include determining that a number of operating cycles has been performed since the prior self-cleaning cycle. In other words, a user or manufacturer may program a predetermined cycle count that corresponds to the number of operating cycles that may be performed before adjustments to the standard self-clean operating parameters should be made. Thus, the controller 166 of washing machine appliance 100 may increment a counter for every operating cycle that is performed and reset the counter when a self-cleaning cycle is performed. Once the counter reaches the predetermined cycle count, controller 166 may determine that the standard self-clean operating parameters should be adjusted in order to achieve desired cleanliness after a self-clean cycle.

In addition, or alternatively, step 220 determining that the cycle adjustment condition exists may include determining that a predetermined amount of time has passed since a prior self-clean cycle. In this regard, for example, it may be desirable to adjust the self-clean cycle operating parameters if the time between self-clean cycles exceeds a predetermined amount of time. This may be true, for example, regardless of the number of operating cycles performed between self-clean cycles. Thus, for example, the user may program a predetermined amount of time and controller 166 may monitor the time that has passed since the last self-cleaning cycle. After the predetermined amount of time has passed, controller 166 may adjust the self-clean cycle parameters to compensate for the additional soil or grime that may have built up within the excessive time between self-cleaning.

Step 230 may include adjusting at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle, based at least in part on determining that the cycle adjustment condition exists, to generate a set of adjusted self-clean cycle parameters. In this regard, as explained briefly above, the self-clean cycle parameters may need to be adjusted from the standard cycle parameters in order to achieve the desired cleaning after prolonged use of washing machine appliance 100 without cleaning. Thus, according to exemplary embodiments, adjusting the at least one operating parameter may include obtaining the standard operating parameters of the self-clean cycle and adjusting at least one of those parameters to generate the adjusted self-clean cycle parameters.

Notably, exemplary parameters of the self-clean cycle that may be adjusted will be provided herein to facilitate discussion of aspects of the present subject matter. However, it should be appreciated that the parameters discussed herein are only exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the present subject matter. In addition, although the present disclosure refers to adjustments in general such as increasing the temperature, a basket speed, etc., it should be appreciated that the amount of increase may vary depending on the amount of time between self-clean cycles. In this regard, for example, the water temperature may be incrementally increased in proportion to the amount of time over the predetermined amount of time described above.

According to exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter, adjusting the at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle may include operating the motor assembly to adjust a spin profile or a spin speed of wash basket 120. In this regard, in order to impart improved agitation onto surfaces of washing machine appliance 100, the spin speed may be increased, may oscillate at a certain frequency, or may have any spin profile suitable for performing the self-cleaning process. According to still other embodiments, adjusting the at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle may include increasing a water temperature dispensed into the tub during the self-clean cycle. In this regard, water or wash fluid may have an increased temperature to help breakdown any soil or grime resulting from the excessive time between self-clean cycles. In addition, the duration of the self-cleaning cycle may be increased in order to ensure a proper cleaning cycle is performed.

According to exemplary embodiments, adjusting the at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle may further include adding a particular cleaning agent or detergent into wash tub 124 to facilitate improved cleaning action. In this regard, for example, washing machine appliance 100 may include a bulk dispenser and adjusting at least one operating parameter may include dispensing a wash additive, detergent, sanitizing solution, or other cleaning agent into wash tub 124 to improve the performance of the cleaning cycle. For example, bleach or another cleaning solution may be added to improve the performance of the cleaning process.

In addition, or alternatively, adjusting the at least one operating parameter may include prompting a user of the appliance to make appliance adjustments or add a particular cleaning agent prior to a self-clean cycle. For example, a user notification may be provided through control panel 160 or a remote device 194 to inform a user that a self-clean cycle is pending and prompt the user to add the cleaning agent. In addition, this user notification may seek confirmation prior to performing the self-clean cycle.

Step 240 may include performing the self-clean cycle in accordance with the adjusted self-clean cycle parameters. In this regard, for example, washing machine appliance 100 may confirm the adjusted self-clean cycle parameters, may inform the user or receive user confirmation that cycle is about performed, may lock door 134 using latch assembly 138, and may commence the self-clean cycle in order to clean washing machine appliance 100, e.g., by removing dirt, grime, mold, mildew, etc. from washing machine appliance 100.

Referring now briefly to FIG. 4, an exemplary flow diagram of a method 300 for initiating a self-cleaning cycle with adjusted cycle parameters for a washing machine appliance will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. According to exemplary embodiments, method 300 may be similar to or interchangeable with all or a portion of method 200 and may be implemented by controller 166 of washing machine appliance 100. As shown, at step 302, method 300 may include determining that the self-clean cycle has been requested, commanded, or otherwise initiated. In this regard, step 302 may include determining that a user has manipulated control panel 160 to begin the parameterization and commencement of a self-clean cycle.

Step 304 may include determining the number of cycles performed or the time that is passed since the last self-cleaning cycle. Based on the data obtained at step 304, step 306 may include adjusting the self-clean cycle operating parameters in order to achieve improved cleaning performance based on the data obtained at step 304. As explained above, these adjustments may be incremental, e.g., based on predetermined thresholds. By contrast, these adjustments the self-clean cycle operating parameters may be changed progressively or proportionally with the number of cycles or the duration between cycles.

Step 308 may include updating the cycle parameters in controller memory, providing the user with notification of the updated parameters, e.g., via a display 164 or remote device 194, etc. Step 310 may include receiving user confirmation to commence the self-clean cycle with the updated operating parameters. In this regard, a user may confirm the commencement of the self-clean cycle by pressing the start button on control panel 160 or within a software application on a remote device 194. Step 312 may include initiating or executing the self-clean cycle with the adjusted self-cleaning cycle operating parameters.

Method 300 may further include steps for providing a user notification that the self-cleaning cycle has commenced. It should be appreciated that the user notification is optional and may be provided to the user from any suitable source and in any suitable manner. For example, according to exemplary embodiments, the user notification may be provided through control panel 160 so that the user may be aware of the operating cycle. In addition, or alternatively, controller 166 may be configured to provide a user notification to a remote device, such as remote device 194 via a network 192. Whether provided via control panel 160, remote device 194, or by other means, this user notification may include useful information. For example, this user notification may include useful information regarding the optimized self-clean cycle parameters, the estimated finish time, or other useful information.

FIGS. 3 and 4 depict steps performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and discussion. Those of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosures provided herein, will understand that the steps of any of the methods discussed herein can be adapted, rearranged, expanded, omitted, or modified in various ways without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, although aspects of method 200 and method 300 are explained using washing machine appliance 100 as an example, it should be appreciated that this method may be applied to the operation of any suitable laundry appliance, such as another washing machine appliance or a dryer appliance.

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 laundry appliance comprising:

a cabinet;

a tub positioned within the cabinet;

a basket rotatably mounted within the tub and defining a chamber configured for receiving a load of clothes; and

a controller configured to: receive a command to initiate a self-clean cycle; determine that a cycle adjustment condition exists based at least in part on historical data related to the performance of self-clean cycles; adjust at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle, based at least in part on determining that the cycle adjustment condition exists, to generate a set of adjusted self-clean cycle parameters; and perform the self-clean cycle in accordance with the adjusted self-clean cycle parameters.

2. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein determining that the cycle adjustment condition exists comprises:

determining that a number of operating cycles performed since a prior self-clean cycle exceeds a predetermined cycle count.

3. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein determining that the cycle adjustment condition exists comprises:

determining that a predetermined amount of time has passed since a prior self-clean cycle.

4. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein determining that the cycle adjustment condition exists comprises:

initiating a counter tracking an elapsed time or a number of operating cycles performed;

resetting the counter when a self-clean cycle is performed; and

determining that the cycle adjustment condition exists when the counter reaches a predetermined count threshold.

5. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein adjusting the at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle comprises:

obtaining standard operating parameters of the self-clean cycle; and

adjusting the at least one operating parameter of the standard operating parameters.

6. The laundry appliance of claim 1, further comprising a motor assembly operably coupled to the basket for selectively rotating the basket, wherein adjusting the at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle comprises:

operating the motor assembly to adjust a spin profile or a spin speed of the basket.

7. The laundry appliance of claim 1, further comprising a wash fluid dispenser mounted within the cabinet for selectively providing a flow of wash fluid into the tub, wherein adjusting the at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle comprises:

increasing a water temperature dispensed into the tub during the self-clean cycle.

8. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein adjusting the at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle comprises:

increasing a duration of the self-cleaning cycle.

9. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein adjusting the at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle comprises:

dispensing a cleaning agent into the tub.

10. The laundry appliance of claim 9, wherein the cleaning agent is bleach or a sanitizing solution.

11. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to:

provide a user notification to add a cleaning agent to the tub using either a user interface panel or a remote device.

12. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to:

provide a user notification regarding the commencement of the self-clean cycle or to seek user confirmation prior to performing the self-clean cycle.

13. The laundry appliance of claim 12, further comprising:

a user interface panel, wherein the user notification is provided through the user interface panel.

14. The laundry appliance of claim 12, wherein the controller is in operative communication with a remote device through an external network, and wherein the user notification is provided through the remote device.

15. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the laundry appliance is a washing machine appliance, a dryer appliance, or a combination washer/dryer appliance.

16. A method of operating a laundry appliance, the laundry appliance comprising a tub positioned within a cabinet and a basket rotatably mounted within the tub and defining a chamber configured for receiving a load of clothes, the method comprising:

receiving a command to initiate a self-clean cycle;

determining that a cycle adjustment condition exists based at least in part on historical data related to the performance of self-clean cycles;

adjusting at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle, based at least in part on determining that the cycle adjustment condition exists, to generate a set of adjusted self-clean cycle parameters; and

performing the self-clean cycle in accordance with the adjusted self-clean cycle parameters.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein determining that the cycle adjustment condition exists comprises:

determining that a number of operating cycles performed since a prior self-clean cycle exceeds a predetermined cycle count.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein determining that the cycle adjustment condition exists comprises:

determining that a predetermined amount of time has passed since a prior self-clean cycle.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein adjusting the at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle comprises:

obtaining standard operating parameters of the self-clean cycle; and

adjusting the at least one operating parameter of the standard operating parameters.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein adjusting the at least one operating parameter of the self-clean cycle comprises at least one of adjusting a spin profile or a spin speed of the basket, increasing a water temperature dispensed into the tub during the self-clean cycle, increasing a duration of the self-cleaning cycle, or dispensing a cleaning agent into the tub.