METHOD FOR CONTROLLING WATER SUPPLY PATH IN WASHING MACHINE, AND WASHING MACHINE CONFIGURED TO IMPLEMENT SAME

Abstract

A washing machine including a washing tub, a water supply unit, a front door, at least one hose connectable to the water supply unit to form a first water supply path and a second water supply path, a first valve, and a second valve. The first water path may supply water into the washing tub and the second water supply path may supply water to a front portion of the washing tub. The first valve may be connected to the water supply unit, the washing tub, and the second valve to form the first water supply path and the second water supply path, and the second valve may be connected to the first valve and the front portion of the washing tub to form the second water supply path.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation application, under 35 U.S.C. § 111 (a), of international application No. PCT/KR2022/021404, filed on Dec. 27, 2022, which claims priority under 35 U. S. C. § 119 to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0190395, filed Dec. 28, 2021, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method of controlling a water supply path in a washing machine and a washing machine configured to perform the method, and more particularly, to a method and washing machine for controlling a water supply path of a washing machine by using a valve configured to control a front water supply path and a valve configured to open a bypass path when the front water supply path is blocked.

BACKGROUND ART

Because a front door of a front loader washing machine (e.g., a drum washing machine) in which a laundry inlet is located on the front includes a transparent window, a state of laundry may be checked. Because the transparent widow of the front door may become dirty due to fiber dust and detergent residue generated during washing, a water supply path may be formed at the front of the washing machine to clean the transparent window.

DISCLOSURE

Technical Problem

When a front water supply path of a washing machine is formed, if a main valve malfunctions, continuous water supply may occur to a front water supply port of the washing machine. In this case, when a front door is opened, supplied water may fall from the front water supply port onto the indoor floor or may flow through the front door onto the indoor floor, causing water leakage. When the water flowing down to the indoor floor is left unattended, additional damage may occur to a user. A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure prevents external water leakage by controlling a valve in a front water supply path and prevents internal water leakage by opening a bypass path when the front water supply path is blocked.

Technical Solution

A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a washing tub, a water supply unit connectable to an external water supply source, a front door, at least one hose connectable to the water supply unit. In the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first water path may supply water into the washing tub and the second water supply path may supply water to a front portion of the washing tub. In the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first valve may be connected to the water supply unit, the washing tub, and the second valve such that while the first valve is connected to the water supply unit, the washing tub and the second valve water flows through the first water supply path and the second water supply path. In the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second valve may be connected to the first valve such that water is introduced toward the front portion of the washing tub through the second water supply path.

A method of controlling, by a washing machine, a water supply path according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include supplying water into a washing tub through a first water supply path and supplying water to a front portion of the washing tub through a second water supply path. The method by which a washing machine controls a water supply path according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include blocking the second water supply path by using a second valve. In the method by which a washing machine controls a water supply path according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first valve may be connected to a water supply unit, the washing tub, and the second valve such that while the first valve is connected to the water supply unit, the washing tub and the second valve water flows through the first water supply path and the second water supply path. In the method by which a washing machine controls a water supply path according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second valve may be connected to the first valve such that while the second valve is connected to the first valve, water is introduced toward the front portion of the washing tub. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for executing the method is provided.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a configuration of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a structure of a water supply system in a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a view for describing a case where a water supply system in a washing machine malfunctions, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a structure of a water supply system in a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a view for describing a case where a water supply system in a washing machine malfunctions, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a view for describing a case where a water supply system in a washing machine malfunctions, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a structure of a water supply system of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a view for describing an operation of a water supply system of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a view for describing an operation of a water supply system of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates a structure of a third valve, in a water supply system of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method by which a washing machine controls a water supply path, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method by which a washing machine controls a water supply path, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a controller of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

MODE FOR INVENTION

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

While describing embodiments of the present disclosure, descriptions of techniques that are well known in the art and not directly related to the present disclosure are omitted. This is to clearly convey the gist of the present disclosure by omitting an unnecessary description.

For the same reason, some elements in the accompanying drawings are exaggerated, omitted, or schematically illustrated. Also, the size of each element may not substantially reflect its actual size. In the drawings, the same or corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals.

The advantages and features of the present disclosure and methods of achieving them will become apparent with reference to embodiments of the present disclosure described in detail below along with the attached drawings. In this regard, the embodiments of the present disclosure may have different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the descriptions set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments of the present disclosure are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the concept of the present embodiments of the present disclosure to one of ordinary skill in the art, and the present disclosure will only be defined by the appended claims. In the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

It will be understood that each block of flowchart illustrations and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations may include computer program instructions. Because these computer program instructions may be loaded into a processor of a general-purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing equipment, the instructions, which are executed via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing equipment generate means for performing the functions specified in the flowchart block(s). Because these computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-executable or computer-readable memory that may direct the computer or other programmable data processing equipment to function in a particular manner, the instructions stored in the computer-executable or computer-readable memory may produce an article of manufacture including instruction means for performing the functions stored in the flowchart block(s). Because the computer program instructions may also be loaded into a computer or other programmable data processing equipment, a series of operational steps may be performed on the computer or other programmable data processing equipment to produce a computer implemented process, and thus, the instructions executed on the computer or other programmable data processing equipment may provide steps for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block(s).

Also, each block may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which includes one or more executable instructions for implementing specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order. For example, two blocks shown in succession may in fact be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved.

Furthermore, the term “ . . . unit” as herein used refers to a software or hardware component, such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) which plays a certain role. However, the term “ . . . unit” does not mean to be limited to software or hardware. A “ . . . unit” may be configured to be in an addressable storage medium or may be configured to operate one or more processors. Accordingly, a “ . . . unit” may include, by way of example, components, such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components, and task components, processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuitry, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables. The functionality provided in components and “ . . . units” may be combined into fewer components and “ . . . units” or may be further separated into additional components and “ . . . units”. Furthermore, components and “ . . . units” may be implemented to operate one or more central processing units (CPUs) in a device or a secure multimedia card. Also, a “ . . . unit” in an embodiment may include one or more processors.

Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

FIG. 1 illustrates a configuration of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

A washing machine 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to automatically execute a washing process including washing, rinsing, and dehydration. The washing machine 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be a front loader washing machine (e.g., a drum washing machine) in which a laundry inlet is located on a front surface.

The washing machine 1000 of FIG. 1 may include a case 2, a fixed tub 3, a rotating tub 4, a water supply unit 5, a drain pump 6, a driving unit 7, and a controller 10.

The case 2 is a box-shaped container including a panel or a frame and forms the exterior of the washing machine 1000. A laundry inlet 2a through which laundry may be input may be located at the front of the case 2, and a door 2b including a transparent window may be provided on the laundry inlet 2a so that the laundry inlet 2a is opened and closed by the door 2b. A manipulation unit 2c may be provided above the laundry inlet 2a of the case 2 so that a user manipulates the washing machine 1000. The washing machine 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may operate to automatically open the door 2b when washing is completed, and whether to automatically open the door 2b may be determined according to user settings of the washing machine 1000.

The fixed tub 3 includes a cylindrical container in which water may be stored, and is provided inside the case 2 with one open entrance connected to the laundry inlet 2a. The fixed tub 3 may be supported by a damper (not shown) provided inside the case 2 in a state where a central axis (rotation axis) J is inclined as marked by a dotted line in FIG. 1.

The rotating tub 4 includes a cylindrical container with a smaller diameter than the fixed tub 3 and is provided on the fixed tub 3 to have the same central axis as the fixed tub 3. According to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the rotating tub 4 rotates with the central axis is inclined upward from a horizontal direction at the front of the washing machine 1000. A circular opening 4a facing the laundry inlet 2a is formed in a front portion of the rotating tub 4. Laundry may be put into the rotating tub 4 through the laundry inlet 2a and the circular opening 4a.

A plurality of dehydration holes 4b (only some shown in FIG. 1) are formed in all directions in a side surface of the rotating tub 4, and stirring lifters 4c may be mounted inside the side surface of the rotating tub 4. Also, the rotating tub 4 is rotatably supported by the laundry inlet 2a at the front.

The water supply unit 5 is provided above the fixed tub 3 and may include a water supply pipe 5a, a water supply valve 5b, and a detergent input unit 5c. An upper end of the water supply pipe 5a is connected to an external water supply source (not shown) outside the washing machine 1000 and a lower end of the water supply pipe 5a is connected to a water supply port 3a of the fixed tub 3. The water supply valve 5b and the detergent input unit 5c may be provided in the middle of the water supply pipe 5a in order from the top. The detergent input unit 5c may accommodate a detergent and a fabric softener therein and may put them into the fixed tub 3 with water. A configuration and an operation of the water supply unit 5 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2. The drain pump 6 may be located below the fixed tub 6 and may be connected to the fixed tub 3 through a drain hole 3b. The drain pump 6 discharges unnecessary water from the fixed tub 3 to the outside of the washing machine 1000 through a drain 6a. Also, the drain pump 6 may operate to drain water when a water level inside the fixed tub 3 is equal to or greater than a certain threshold water level.

The driving unit 7 is mounted on a lower end of the fixed tub 3 and may include a unit base 7a, a shaft 7b, and a motor 7c.

The unit base 7a may be located on the lower end of the fixed tub 3 and may be formed of a disk-shaped metal and a resin member according to an embodiment. A shaft insertion hole having a cylindrical shape and extending along the rotation axis J may be formed at the center of the unit base 7a, and one pair of ball bearings (not shown) are mounted on both ends of the shaft insertion hole.

The shaft 7b is rotatably supported on the unit base 7a. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the shaft 7b is supported by the one pair of ball bearings provided in the shaft insertion hole of the unit base 7a. Then, the shaft 7b may rotate around the rotation axis J. The shaft 7b may pass through a rear surface of the fixed tub 3 and may protrude into the fixed tub 3, and an end of the shaft 7b is fixed to the lower center of the rotating tub 4. For example, a rear portion of the rotating tub 4 is supported around the rotation axis J by the shaft 7b. As the driving unit 7 directly drives the rotating tub 4, the rotating tub 4 rotates around the rotation axis J according to the driving of the motor 7c.

According to an embodiment, the rotation axis J is aligned with a central line of the fixed tub 3, a central line of the rotating tub 4, and an axis line of the shaft 7b. Also, the rotation axis J is inclined with respect to a horizontal direction or located on an extension line of the horizontal direction. The motor 7c rotates the rotating tub 4. According to an embodiment, the motor 7c rotates the shaft 7b fixed to the rotating tub 4, and the rotating tub 4 is rotated by the rotation of the shaft 7b. Also, the number of rotations of the motor 7c per hour may be variable.

The controller 10 of the washing machine 1000 may be located inside the washing machine 1000 and comprehensively controls an operation of the washing machine 1000. For example, the controller 10 may have a structure in which a processor or the like is mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). A configuration and an operation of the controller 10 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 13.

FIG. 2 illustrates a structure of a water supply system in a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 2, the water supply system in the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a washing tub 900, a water supply unit 500, at least one hose 600, and a first valve 100. However, a configuration of the water supply system in the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the water supply system in the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include more or fewer elements than those illustrated in FIG. 2. Also, an arrangement of the elements may be changed or configured in various ways according to a method of implementing the washing machine.

The washing tub 900 is an internal space of the washing machine 1000 into which a detergent, a softener and/or water is added to wash laundry and may have a structure including the fixed tub 3 and the rotating tub 4. Referring to FIG. 2, the washing tub 900 may include a rear or lower water supply port 910 and a front water support port 920.

The rear or lower water supply port 910 may directly supply water into the washing tub 900, and water introduced into the washing tub through the rear or lower water supply port 910 may pass through the detergent input unit 5c and may be introduced into the washing tub together with a detergent and a fabric softener. The front water supply port 920 may supply water through the circular opening 4a of the rotating tub, and water supplied through the front water supply port 920 may flow through the inside of the door 2b of the washing machine 1000 and may be introduced into the washing tub to clean the transparent window attached to the door 2b.

The at least one hose 600 may connect the elements constituting the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 to form at least one water supply path through which water passes. In this case, each water supply path may include at least one hose, and when each water supply path includes a plurality of hoses, each hose may be connected with a clamp or the like. Also, when each water supply path includes a plurality of hoses, an additional element (e.g., a valve or a hydraulic system) may be provided at a connection portion of each hose.

Referring to FIG. 2, a first hose 600-1 connects the water supply unit 500 to the rear or lower water supply port 910 to form a first water supply path. Also, a second hose 600-2 and a third hose 600-3 connect the water supply unit to the front water supply port 920 to form a second water supply path. In this case, the first water supply path may be a rear or lower water supply path, and the second water supply path may be a front water supply path.

The first valve 100 may supply water supplied from the external water supply source (not shown) outside the washing machine 1000 into the washing tub 900 through the water supply unit 500 and be configured to determine a water supply path or configured to adjust a flow rate for each water supply path. Referring to FIG. 2, the first valve 100 may be configured to determine whether to block the first water supply path and/or the second water supply path or to adjust a flow rate of the first water supply path and/or the second water supply path. For example, the first valve may be configured to deliver 30% of a total flow rate to the first water supply path and deliver 70% of the total flow rate to the second water supply path.

The first valve 100 may be the water supply valve 5b of the embodiment of FIG. 1 and may include one or more valves. For example, the first valve may include a hot water valve, a cold water valve, a front water supply valve, a rear water supply valve, and/or a lower water supply valve.

FIG. 3 is a view for describing a case where a water supply system in a washing machine malfunctions, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 3, in the washing machine 1000 including the water supply system of FIG. 2, when the first valve 100 malfunctions, continuous front water supply may occur through the second water supply path including the second hose 600-2 and the third hose 600-3.

When the first valve 100 malfunctions and the door 2b on the front of the washing tub 900 is closed, water supplied through the second water supply path may be received into the washing tub 900 through the front water supply port 920, and the drain pump 6 may operate to drain the water when a water level inside the fixed tub 3 is equal to or greater than a certain threshold water level. However, when the front door 2b of the washing tub 900 is opened, water supplied through the second water supply path may fall onto the indoor floor from the front water supply port 920 or may flow through the door 2b onto the indoor floor, causing external water leakage.

In particular, when an automatic opening function of the door 2b is activated and thus the door 2b is opened, it is highly possible that a user of the washing machine 1000 may not recognize that the door 2b is opened, and thus, when the first valve 100 malfunctions, damage due to water leakage may occur. Also, even when the user intentionally opens the door 2b for the hygiene management of the washing machine 1000 or laundry, when the first valve 100 malfunctions, a time for which water leakage is left unattended may increase, resulting in additional damage due to water leakage.

FIG. 4 illustrates a structure of a water supply system in a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 4, the water supply system in the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the washing tub 900, the water supply unit 500, at least one hose 600, the first valve, and a second valve. However, a configuration of the water supply system in the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the water supply system in the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include more or fewer elements than those illustrated in FIG. 4. Also, an arrangement of the elements may be changed or configured in various ways according to a method of implementing the washing machine.

In FIG. 4, the same configuration as that in FIG. 2 will not be described or will be briefly described.

The washing tub 900 is an internal space of the washing machine 1000 into which a detergent, a softener and/or water is added to wash laundry and may include the rear or lower water supply port 910 and the front water supply port 920. The rear or lower water supply port 910 may directly supply water into the washing tub 900, and the front water supply port 920 may supply water through the circular opening 4a of the rotating tub.

The at least one hose 600 may connect the elements constituting the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 to form a water supply path through which water passes. In this case, each water supply path may include at least one hose, and when each water supply path includes a plurality of hoses, each hose may be connected with a clamp or the like. Also, when each water supply path includes a plurality of hoses, an additional element (e.g., a valve or a hydraulic system) may be provided at a connection portion of each hose.

Referring to FIG. 4, a first water supply path includes the first hose 600-1 that connects the first valve 100 to the rear or lower water supply port 910. Also, a second water supply path includes the second hose 600-2 that connects the first valve to a second valve 200, the second valve, and the third hose 600-3 that connects the second valve 200 to the front water supply port 920.

The first valve 100 supplies water supplied from the external water supply source (not shown) outside the washing machine 1000 through the water supply unit 500 into the washing tub 900. Also, the first valve 100 may be configured to determine a water supply path or configured to adjust a flow rate for each water supply path. Referring to FIG. 4, the first valve 100 may be connected to the water supply unit 500, the second valve 200, and the rear or lower water supply port 910 to form the first water supply path and the second water supply path.

The second valve 200 may constitute a water supply path and may operate to block the water supply path. Referring to FIG. 4, the second valve 200 is connected to the first valve and the front water supply port 920 to form the second water supply path and is configured to block the second water supply path.

FIG. 5 is a view for describing a case where a water supply system in a washing machine malfunctions, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 5, it is assumed that the first valve 100 in the washing machine 1000 including the water supply system of FIG. 4 malfunctions.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first valve 100 malfunctions, water supplied from the first valve 100 through the second hose 600-2 may be blocked by the second valve 200. In this case, because front water supply through the second water supply path is blocked and only water supply through the first water supply path is performed, water leakage onto the indoor floor does not occur even when the door 2b is opened.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the washing machine 1000 may determine whether the first valve 100 malfunctions and may determine whether to block the second valve based on whether the first valve 100 malfunctions. For example, the controller 10 of the washing machine 1000 may identify whether the first valve 100 is broken or whether water is supplied through the second water supply path when washing is not being performed, and may control the second valve 200 based on an identification result. For example, when it is identified that the first valve 100 is broken, the controller 10 of the washing machine 1000 may block the second water supply path by setting the second valve 200 to a locked state. Alternatively, when it is identified that water is supplied through the second water supply path when washing is not being performed, the controller 10 of the washing machine 1000 may block the second water supply path by setting the second valve 200 to a locked state.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the controller 10 of the washing machine 1000 may identify whether the front door 2b is opened and may control the second valve 200 based on an identification result. For example, when it is identified that the front door 2b is opened, the controller 10 of the washing machine 1000 may block the second water supply path by setting the second valve 200 to a locked state.

The controller 10 of the washing machine 1000 may determine whether the door 2b is opened based on an opening angle of the door 2b or a latch engagement state of the door 2b, and when it is determined that the door 2b is opened, the washing machine 1000 may operate to block water supply to the front water supply port 920 by setting the second valve 200 to a locked state. In this case, the blocking of water supply to the front water supply port 920 based on whether the door 2b is opened may be determined regardless of whether the first valve 100 is broken.

FIG. 6 is a view for describing a case where a water supply system in a washing machine malfunctions, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 6, it is assumed that pressure of the second hose 600-N increases in the washing machine 1000 including the water supply system of FIG. 4.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first valve 100 malfunctions, a supply path of water supplied from the first valve 100 through the second hose 600-2 may be blocked by the second valve 200. In this case, because the second valve is blocked but the first valve is opened, pressure of the second hose 600-2 increases. Alternatively, when water supply pressure of the external water supply source (not shown) is high and thus a flow rate supplied from the first valve is high, pressure of the second hose 600-2 may increase.

When pressure of the second hose 600-2 exceeds a certain threshold pressure Pth, the second hose 600-N may be damaged or a connection portion between the first valve 100 and the second hose 600-N or a connection portion between the second valve 100 and the second hose 600-2 may be separated. When the second hose 600-2 is damaged or a connection portion between the second hose 600-2 and each valve is separated, water leakage into the washing machine 1000 occurs.

FIG. 7 illustrates a structure of a water supply system of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 7, the water supply system of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a third valve 300 and a fourth hose 600-4. The third valve 300 may be located between the first valve and the second valve to determine whether to open a bypass water supply path to the fourth hose 600-4, and may be referred to as a Y connector or a check valve. The fourth hose 600-4 is connected to the third valve and the rear or lower water supply port 910.

As described above, when the first valve 100 malfunctions, a supply path of water supplied from the first valve 100 through the second hose 600-2 may be blocked by the second valve 200. In this case, because the second case is blocked but the first valve is opened, pressure of the second hose 600-2 increases. Alternatively, when water supply pressure of the external water supply source (not shown) is high and thus a flow rate supplied from the first valve is high, pressure of the second hose 600-2 may increase.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when pressure of the second hose 600-2 increases, the third valve 300 is opened to form a bypass water supply path through the fourth hose 600-4. Because the fourth hose 600-4 connects the third valve 300 to the rear or lower water supply port 910, water supplied through the bypass water supply path is directly introduced into the washing tub 900. Accordingly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the second valve 200 is locked to block a water supply path to the front water supply port 910, external water leakage due to the opening of the door 2b may be prevented, and internal water leakage due to increased pressure of the second hose 600-2 may be prevented by using the third valve 300.

FIG. 8 is a view for describing an operation of a water supply system of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 8, the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a water supply unit (not shown), at least one valve (e.g., the first valve 100, the second valve 200, and the third valve 300), at least one hose (e.g., the first hose 600-1 (not shown), the second hose 600-2, the third hose 600-3, and the fourth hose 600-4), and a water supply port (e.g., the front water supply port 920 and the rear or lower water supply port 910).

In FIG. 8, the same configuration as that in FIGS. 2 to 7 will not be described or will be briefly described.

Referring to FIG. 8, a first water supply path may include the first hose 600-1 (not shown) that connects the first valve 100 to the rear or lower water supply port 910. A second water supply path may include the second hose 600-2 that connects the first valve to the second valve 200, the second valve, and the third hose 600-3 that connects the second valve 200 to the front water supply port 920. Also, a third water supply path may include the fourth hose 600-4 that connects the third valve 300 to the rear or lower water supply port 910. The third water supply path is a bypass path that is opened when water pressure to the second water supply path increases, and whether to open the third water supply path may be determined by the third valve.

The first valve 100 may constitute the first water supply path and the second water supply path, may supply water supplied from the external water supply source (not shown) outside the washing machine 1000 through the water supply unit 500 into the washing tub 900, and may be configured to determine a water supply path or configured top adjust a flow rate for each water supply path.

The second valve 200 may constitute the second water supply path and may operate to block the second water supply path. Referring to FIG. 8, the second valve 200 may be connected to the first valve and the front water supply port 920 to form the second water supply path and may block the second water supply path.

The third valve (check valve) 300 may constitute the third water supply path, may be located between the first valve and the second valve, and may operate to open or block the third water supply path. Referring to FIG. 8, the third valve is connected between the first valve 100 and the second valve 200 and is connected to the second water supply path and the rear or lower water supply port 910. The third valve 300 may be configured to be opened when pressure in a hose constituting the second water supply path increases to open the third water supply path, and when the third valve is opened, pressure of the second water supply path may decrease and internal water leakage may be prevented.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 normally operates, the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 may be configured to operate in a state where the first valve 100 and the second valve 200 are opened and the third valve 300 is closed.

When the first valve 100 and the second valve 200 are opened and the third valve 300 is closed, water supplied from the external water supply source (not shown) through the water supply unit 500 and the first valve 100 may be supplied to the rear or lower water supply port 910 through the first water supply path (not shown). Also, water supplied from the external water supply source (not shown) through the water supply unit 500 may be supplied to the front water supply port 920 through the second water supply path (second hose 600-2, the second valve 200, and the third hose 600-3). In this case, because the third valve 300 is closed, the third water supply path is blocked and all water supplied through the second water supply path is delivered to the front water supply port 920.

FIG. 9 is a view for describing an operation of a water supply system of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 9, the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a water supply unit (not shown), at least one valve (e.g., the first valve 100, the second valve 200, and the third valve 300), at least one hose (e.g., the first hose 600-1 (not shown), the second hose 600-2, the third hose 600-3, and the fourth hose 600-4), and a water supply port (e.g., the front water supply port 920 and the rear or lower water supply port 910).

In FIG. 9, the same configuration as that in FIGS. 2 to 8 will not be described or will be briefly described.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first valve in the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 malfunctions, the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 may be configured to operate in a state where the second valve is closed.

When the first valve normally operates, the first valve is configured to be opened only when washing is being performed to supply water into the washing tub 900 and to remain closed when washing is not being performed to block water supplied from the water supply unit 500. However, when water supplied from the water supply unit 500 is not blocked due to a failure of the first valve (e.g., remaining opened), because the second valve is opened, water supplied through the second water supply path is all delivered to the front water supply port 920.

In this case, when the door 2b on the front of the washing tub is closed, the water delivered to the water supply port 920 is supplied into the washing tub 900 and is automatically drained when a water level inside the washing tub 900 is equal to or greater than a certain threshold value, causing no water leakage. However, when water is supplied through the front water supply port 920 while the door 2b on the front of the washing tub is opened, the supplied water may fall from the front water supply port 920 onto the indoor floor or may flow through the door 2b onto the indoor floor, causing external water leakage.

In order to prevent such external water leakage, the washing machine 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to maintain the second valve in a closed state when a failure of the first valve is identified or an opened state of the door 2b is identified. As such, when the second valve is maintained in a closed state, the second water supply path is blocked, thereby preventing external water leakage due to water supply to the front water supply port 920.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first valve in the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 malfunctions or pressure of the second water supply path increases, the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 may be configured to operate in a state where the third valve is opened.

As described above, when a failure of the first valve is identified or an opened state of the door 2b is identified, the washing machine 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may block the second water supply path by closing the second valve, thereby preventing external water leakage due to water supply to the front water supply port 920. However, when water is continuously introduced into the second water supply path through the first valve in a state where the second valve is closed, pressure of the second water supply path may increase to be equal to or greater than the certain threshold pressure Pth. Alternatively, even when supply pressure of water supplied from the external water supply source (not shown) is high, pressure of the second water supply path may increase to be equal to or greater than the certain threshold pressure Pth.

Alternatively, even when the first valve normally operates, if the second valve that should be opened remains closed due to a failure of the second valve, pressure of the second water supply path may increase to be equal to or greater than the certain threshold pressure Pth.

As such, when pressure of the second water supply path increases to be equal to or greater than the certain threshold pressure Pth, the second hose 600-2 and the third hose 600-3 constituting the second water supply path may expand, or a connection portion of elements (the first valve, the second hose 600-2, the second valve, and the third hose 600-3) constituting the second water supply path may be damaged, causing internal water leakage.

In order to prevent such internal water leakage, the washing machine 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may open the third water supply path by opening the third valve 300 when internal pressure of the second water supply path is equal to or greater than the certain threshold pressure Pth, thereby reducing pressure of the second water supply path and preventing internal water leakage.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the certain threshold pressure Pth that is a criterion for opening the third valve 300 may be determined based on water pressure of the external water supply source. For example, the third valve 300 may be configured to be maintained in a closed state when hydraulic pressure of the second water supply path is lower than water pressure of the external water supply source, that is, water pressure of the first valve and to be opened when hydraulic pressure of the second water supply path is higher than water pressure of the first valve.

FIG. 10 illustrates a structure of a third valve, in a water supply system of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 10, the third valve 300 is a ball valve and includes a spring 320 for controlling the movement of a ball 310. The third valve 300 of FIG. 10 is an opening/closing gate valve, and only determines whether to open or close the valve and does not control a flow rate. In general, when an opening/closing gate valve operates in a half-open state, eddy current is generated on a rear surface of a gate and fluid resistance increases, which may cause vibration in the valve or erosion on an inner surface of the valve. The opening/closing gate gave has the advantage of low pressure loss because there is no change in direction or cross-section when fluid, that is, water, passes through the inside of the valve. However, FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a structure of the third valve 300, and a structure and an operation of the third valve 300 are not limited to the embodiment of FIG. 10.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in a general case, the ball 310 of the third valve 300 may be located at an intersection between the second water supply path and the third water supply path and may block the third water supply path by being supported by the spring 320. When continuous water supply of the first valve 100 (opening of the first valve 100) or a malfunction of the second valve 200 (closing of the second valve) occurs, pressure in the second water supply path increases, and thus, the ball 310 in the third valve 300 moves toward the third water supply path to open the third valve 300. In this case, a diameter of the ball 310 may be determined to block the third water supply path by closing a hole in the second water supply path, and elasticity (k) of the spring 320 may be determined so that when pressure is equal to or greater than the certain threshold pressure Pth, the ball 310 moves toward the third water supply path to open the third water supply path.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method by which a washing machine controls a water supply path, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 11, the water supply system in the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the washing tub 900, the water supply unit 500, at least one hose 600, the first valve 100, and the second valve 200, and it is assumed that the first valve malfunctions in the washing machine 1000 including the water supply system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The at least one hose 600 may connect the elements constituting the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 to form a water supply path through which water passes. In this case, each water supply path may include at least one hose, and when each water supply path includes a plurality of hoses, each hose may be connected with a clamp or the like. Also, when each water supply path includes a plurality of hoses, an additional element (e.g., a valve or a hydraulic system) may be provided at a connection portion of each hose.

In FIG. 11, the same configuration as that in FIGS. 2 to 10 will not be described or will be briefly described.

In operation S1110, a washing machine may supply water into a washing tub through a first water supply path and may supply water to a front portion of the washing tub through a second water supply path.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first water supply path is a rear or lower water supply path through which water introduced from the water supply unit 500 is supplied to the washing tub 900 through the rear or lower water supply port 910 and may be connected to the first hose 600-1. The second water supply path is a front water supply path through which water introduced from the water supply unit 500 is supplied to the washing tub 900 through the front water supply port 920 and may be connected to the second hose 600-2 and the third hose 600-3.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first valve may supply water supplied from the external water supply source (not shown) outside the washing machine 1000 through the water supply unit 500 into the washing tub 900 and may be configured to determine a water supply path or configured to adjust a flow rate for each water supply path. Referring to FIG. 2, the first valve 100 may be configured to determine whether to block the first water supply path and/or the second water supply path or to adjust a flow rate of the first water supply path and/or the second water supply path.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first valve 100 may be the water supply valve 5b in the embodiment of FIG. 1 and may include one or more valves. For example, the first valve may include a hot water valve, a cold water valve, a front water supply valve, a rear water supply valve, and/or a lower water supply valve.

In operation S1120, the washing machine may block the second water supply path by using a second valve.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second valve 200 may be connected to the first valve and the front water supply port 920 to form the second water supply path, and may be located between the second hose 600-2 and the third hose 600-3 and configured to block the second water supply path.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first valve 100 malfunctions, water supplied from the first valve 100 through the second hose 600-2 may be blocked by the second valve 200. In this case, because front water supply through the second water supply path is blocked and only water supply through the first water supply path is performed, even when the door 2b is opened, water leakage onto the indoor floor does not occur.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the washing machine 1000 may determine whether the first valve 100 malfunctions and may determine whether to block the second valve based on whether the first valve 100 malfunctions.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the controller 10 of the washing machine 1000 may identify whether the front door 2b is opened and may control the second valve 200 based on an identification result.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method by which a washing machine controls a water supply path, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 12, the water supply system in the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the washing tub 900, the water supply unit 500, at least one hose 600, the first valve 100, the second valve 200, and the third valve 300, and it is assumed that pressure inside a second water supply path increases in the washing machine 1000 including the water supply system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The at least one hose 600 may connect the elements constituting the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 to form a water supply path through which water passes. In this case, each water supply path may include at least one hose, and when each water supply path includes a plurality of hoses, each hose may be connected with a clamp or the like. Also, when each water supply path includes a plurality of hoses, an additional element (e.g., a valve or a hydraulic system) may be provided at a connection portion of each hose.

In FIG. 11, the same configuration as that in FIGS. 2 to 11 will not be described or will be briefly described.

In operation S1210, a washing machine may supply water into a washing tub through a first water supply path and may supply water to a front portion of the washing tub through a second water supply path.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first water supply path is a rear or lower water supply path through which water introduced from the water supply unit 500 is supplied to the washing tub 900 through the rear or lower water supply port 910 and may be connected to the first hose 600-1. The second water supply path is a front water supply path through which water introduced from the water supply unit 500 is supplied to the washing tub 900 through the front water supply port 920 and may be connected to the second hose 600-2 and the third hose 600-3.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first valve may supply water supplied from the external water supply source (not shown) outside the washing machine 1000 through the water supply unit 500 into the washing tub 900 and may be configured to determine a water supply path or configured to adjust a flow rate for each water supply path. Referring to FIG. 2, the first valve 100 may be configured to determine whether to block the first water supply path and/or the second water supply path or to adjust a flow rate of the first water supply path and/or the second water supply path.

In operation S1220, the washing machine may block the second water supply path by using a second valve.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second valve 200 may be connected to the first valve and the front water supply port 920 to form the second water supply path, and may be located between the second hose 600-2 and the third hose 600-3 and configured to block the second water supply path.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first valve 100 malfunctions, water supplied from the first valve 100 through the second hose 600-2 may be blocked by the second valve 200. In this case, because front water supply through the second water supply path is blocked and only water supply through the first water supply path is performed, even when the door 2b is opened, water leakage onto the indoor floor does not occur.

In operation S1230, the washing machine may open a third water supply path by using a third valve.

The third water supply path may include the fourth hose 600-4 that connects the third valve 300 to the rear or lower water supply port 910. The third water supply path is a bypass path that is opened when water pressure of the second water supply path increases, and whether to open the third water supply path may be determined by the third valve. The third valve is located between the first valve 100 and the second valve 200 and is connected to the second water supply path and the rear or lower water supply port 910.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first valve in the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 malfunctions or pressure of the second water supply path increases, the water supply system of the washing machine 1000 may be configured to operate in a state where the third valve is opened.

The washing machine 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may block the front water supply port 920 by closing the second valve when a failure of the first valve is identified or it is identified that the door 2b is opened, thereby preventing external water leakage due to water supply to the front water supply port 920. However, when water is continuously supplied to the second water supply path through the first valve in a state where the second valve is closed, pressure of the second water supply path may increase to be equal to or greater than the certain threshold pressure Pth. Alternatively, even when supply pressure of water supplied from the external water supply source (not shown) is high, pressure of the second water supply path may increase to be equal to or greater than the certain threshold pressure Pth.

Alternatively, even when the first valve normally operates, if the second valve that should be opened remains closed due to a failure of the second valve, pressure of the second water supply path may increase to be equal to or greater than the certain threshold pressure Pth. As such, when pressure of the second water supply path increases to be equal to or greater than the certain threshold pressure Pth, the second hose 600-2 and the third hose 600-3 constituting the second water supply path may expand or a connection portion of elements constituting the second water supply path (the first valve, the second hose 600-2, the second valve, and the third hose 600-3) may be damaged, causing internal water leakage.

Because the third valve 300 is configured to be opened when pressure inside a hose constituting the second water supply path increases to open the third water supply path, the third valve 300 may be opened when pressure inside the hose constituting the second water supply path is equal to or greater than the certain threshold pressure Pth, thereby reducing pressure of the second water supply path and preventing internal water leakage.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a controller of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 13, the controller 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a processor 20, a memory 30, and a communication unit 50.

However, not all of the illustrated elements are essential elements. The controller 10 may include more or fewer elements than those illustrated in FIG. 13.

Hereinafter, the elements will be sequentially described.

The communication unit 50 may transmit and receive data for receiving a service related to the washing machine 1000 to and from an external device (not shown) and a server (not shown).

The memory 30 may include at least one of an internal memory (not shown) and an external memory (not shown). The internal memory may include at least one of, for example, a volatile memory (e.g., dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), or synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM)), a nonvolatile memory (e.g., one time programmable ROM (OTPROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable and programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), mask ROM, or flash ROM), a hard disk drive (HDD), or a solid state drive (SSD). According to an embodiment, the processor 20 may load a command or data received from at least one of the nonvolatile memory or another element onto the volatile memory and may process the command or the data. Also, the processor 20 may store data received or generated from another element in the nonvolatile memory. The external memory may include at least one of, for example, compact flash (CF), secure digital (SD), micro secure digital (Micro-SD), mini secure digital (Mini-SD), extreme digital (xD), and memory stick.

The processor 20 typically controls an overall operation of the washing machine 1000. For example, the processor 20 may execute programs stored in the memory 30 to generally control the communication unit 50, the water supply unit 5, the drain pump 6, the driving unit 7, and a power supply unit (not shown).

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor may include, but is not limited to, an artificial intelligence (AI) processor for generating a learning network model. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the Al processor may be implemented as a chip separate from the processor 20. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the Al processor may be a general-purpose chip.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 20 may determine whether the first valve 100 malfunctions and may determine whether to block the second valve based on whether the first valve 100 malfunctions. For example, the processor 20 may identify whether the first valve 100 is broken or whether water supply occurs through the second water supply path when washing is not being performed and may control the second valve 200 based on an identification result. For example, when it is identified that the first valve 100 is broken, the processor 20 may block the second water supply path by setting the second valve 200 to a locked state. Alternatively, when it is identified that water is supplied through the second water supply path when washing is not being performed, the processor 20 may block the second water supply path by setting the second valve 200 to a locked state.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 20 may identify whether the front door 2b is opened and may control the second valve 200 based on an identification result. For example, when it is identified that the front door 2b is opened, the processor 20 may block the second water supply path by setting the second valve 200 to a locked state.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 20 may determine whether the door 2b is opened based on an opening angle of the door 2b or a latch engagement state of the door 2b, and when it is determined that the door 2b is opened, the processor 20 may block water supply to the front water supply port 920 by setting the second valve 200 to a locked state. In this case, the blocking of water supply to the front water supply port 920 based on whether the door 2b is opened may be determined regardless of whether the first valve 100 is broken.

Methods according to the claims or the embodiments described herein may be implemented by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

When the methods are implemented by software, a computer-readable storage medium or a computer program product storing one or more programs (software modules) may be provided. The one or more programs that are stored in the computer-readable storage medium or the computer program product are configured to be executable by one or more processors in an electronic device. The one or more programs include instructions for allowing the electronic device to execute the methods according to the claims or the embodiments described in the specification.

The programs (e.g., software modules or software) may be stored in a random-access memory (RAM), a non-volatile memory including a flash memory, a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a magnetic disc storage device, a compact disc-ROM (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disc (DVD), another optical storage device, or a magnetic cassette. Alternatively, the programs may be stored in a memory including any combination of some or all of the above storage media. Also, a plurality of constituent memories may be provided.

Also, the programs may be stored in an attachable storage device that is accessible through a communication network, such as the Internet, an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a wide LAN (WLAN), or a storage area network (SAN), or a combination thereof. Such a storage device may access, via an external port, an apparatus for performing embodiments of the present disclosure. Furthermore, an additional storage device on the communication network may access the apparatus for performing embodiments of the present disclosure.

In the present disclosure, the term “computer program product” or “computer-readable recording medium” is used to totally indicate a memory, a hard disk mounted in a hard disk drive, and a medium such as a signal. The “computer program product” or “computer-readable medium” provides software configured of instructions for setting a length of a timer for receiving a missing data packet, based on network metrics corresponding to a determined event according to the present disclosure, to a computer system.

The machine-readable storage medium may be provided as a non-transitory storage medium. Here, ‘non-transitory’ means that the storage medium does not include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave) and is tangible, but does not distinguish whether data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily in the storage medium. For example, the ‘non-transitory storage medium’ may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

According to an embodiment, methods according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may be provided in a computer program product. The computer program product is a product purchasable between a seller and a purchaser. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) online via an application store or between two user devices (e.g., smartphones) directly. When distributed online, at least part of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable application) may be temporarily generated or at least temporarily stored in a machine-readable storage medium, such as a memory of a server of a manufacturer, a server of an application store, or a relay server.

In specific embodiments of the present disclosure described above, elements included in the present disclosure are expressed as singular or plural according to the specific embodiments. However, singular or plural expressions have been selected properly for a condition provided for convenience of description, and the present disclosure is not limited to singular or plural components. Components expressed as plural may be configured as a single component, or a component expressed as singular may be configured as plural components.

Although specific embodiments are described in the detailed description of the present disclosure, various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Hence, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments, and may be defined by not only the following claims but also equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A washing machine comprising:

a washing tub;

a water supply unit connectable to an external water supply source;

a front door;

at least one hose connectable to the water supply unit such that while the at least one hose is connected to the water supply unit, water is supplied to the washing tub;

a first valve; and

a second valve,

wherein a first water supply path introduces water supplied from the external water supply source through the water supply unit into the washing tub,

a second water supply path supplies water to a front portion of the washing tub,

the first valve is connectable to the water supply unit, the washing tub, and the second valve such that while the first valve is connected to the water supply unit, the washing tub and the second valve, water flows through the first water supply path and the second water supply path, and

the second valve is connectable to the first valve such that while the second valve is connected to the first valve, water is introduced toward the front portion of the washing tub through the second water supply path.

2. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the washing machine is configured to identify whether the first valve normally operates, and based on the first valve being identified as not normally operating, to block the second water supply path by using the second valve.

3. The washing machine of claim 1, further comprising a third valve,

wherein the third valve is connectable to the first valve and the second valve to form a third water supply path to supply water into the washing tub.

4. The washing machine of claim 3, wherein the third valve is configured to be opened based on pressure of the second water supply path being equal to or greater than a certain threshold pressure to open the third water supply path.

5. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein

the first valve is connected to the water supply unit and configured to adjust an amount of water supplied to the washing tub through at least one of the first water supply path and the second water supply path, and

the second valve is configured to adjust an amount of water supplied to the washing tub through the second water supply path.

6. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the washing machine is configured to identify whether the front door is opened, and based on the front door being identified as being opened, to block the second water supply path by using the second valve.

7. A method of controlling, by a washing machine, a water supply path, the method comprising:

supplying water into a washing tub through a first water supply path and supplying water to a front portion of the washing tub through a second water supply path; and

blocking the second water supply path by using a second valve,

wherein a first valve is connectable to a water supply unit, the washing tub, and the second valve such that while the first valve is connected to the water supply unit, the washing tub and the second valve, water flows through the first water supply path and the second water supply path, and

the second valve is connectable to the first valve such that while the second valve is connected to the first valve, water is introduced toward the front portion of the washing tub through the second water supply path.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising:

identifying whether the first valve normally operates; and

based on the first valve being identified as normally operating, blocking the second water supply path by using the second valve.

9. The method of claim 7, further comprising opening a third water supply path to supply water into the washing tub by using a third valve,

wherein the third valve is connectable to the first valve and the second valve to form the third water supply path.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the third valve is configured to be opened based on pressure of the second water supply path being equal to or greater than a certain threshold pressure to open the third water supply path.

11. The method of claim 7, wherein

the first valve is connected to the water supply unit and configured to adjust an amount of water supplied to the washing tub through at least one of the first water supply path and the second water supply path, and

the second valve is configured to adjust an amount of water supplied to the washing tub through the second water supply path.

12. The method of claim 7, further comprising:

identifying whether a front door is opened; and

based on the front door being identified as being opened, blocking the second water supply path by using the second valve.