U.S. patent application number 11/320620 was filed with the patent office on 2006-05-25 for method and device for display use of washing machine.
Invention is credited to So-Young Cho, Seong-Jin Jo.
Application Number | 20060107703 11/320620 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36384567 |
Filed Date | 2006-05-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060107703 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jo; Seong-Jin ; et
al. |
May 25, 2006 |
Method and device for display use of washing machine
Abstract
The present invention relates to a method and device for
displaying usage guidelines of a washing machine, and more
particularly, to a method and device for displaying usage
guidelines of a washing machine wherein a user can be guided in all
the washing processes by the respective stages. The present
invention is characterized in that usages of the washing machine by
the respective stages are provided to an inexperienced person who
does not know well the usages, that actual processes are performed
when the user follows the provided instructions, and that the user
can personally check and troubleshoot simple problems which may
occur when utilizing the washing machine. According to the present
invention, there is an additional advantage in that various
functions and usages of the washing machine can be more
conveniently and efficiently utilized with the aid of a wash
help.
Inventors: |
Jo; Seong-Jin;
(Changwon-City, KR) ; Cho; So-Young;
(Changwon-City, KR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MCKENNA LONG & ALDRIDGE LLP;Song K. Jung
1900 K Street, N.W.
Washington
DC
20006
US
|
Family ID: |
36384567 |
Appl. No.: |
11/320620 |
Filed: |
December 30, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10343925 |
Feb 6, 2003 |
|
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PCT/KR01/01345 |
Aug 8, 2001 |
|
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11320620 |
Dec 30, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
68/3R |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 2216/00 20130101;
D06F 2214/00 20130101; D06F 2101/20 20200201; D06F 2105/58
20200201; D06F 34/30 20200201; D06F 2101/14 20200201; D06F 34/32
20200201; D06F 34/28 20200201 |
Class at
Publication: |
068/003.00R |
International
Class: |
D06F 37/00 20060101
D06F037/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 8, 2000 |
KR |
2000-0045923 |
Aug 11, 2000 |
KR |
2000-46628 |
Sep 5, 2000 |
KR |
2000-52474 |
Sep 6, 2000 |
KR |
2000-52745 |
Sep 20, 2000 |
KR |
2000-55232 |
Oct 10, 2000 |
KR |
2000-59588 |
Claims
1.-28. (canceled)
29. A washing machine comprising: a display unit which displays a
plurality of options for operating the washing machine on a screen;
an input unit for receiving a user selected option selected from
the plurality of options; and a controller for operating the
washing machine according to the selected option.
30. The washing machine as claimed in claim 29, further comprising
memory for storing defined functions corresponding to each of the
plurality of options.
31. The washing machine as claimed in claim 29, wherein the display
unit includes an LCD.
32. The washing machine as claimed in claim 29, wherein the input
unit includes a mechanically operative input unit.
33. The washing machine as claimed in claim 32, wherein the input
unit includes at least one of a button type device, and a dial
button type device.
34. The washing machine as claimed in claim 29, wherein the input
unit and the display unit are integrated into a single unit.
35. The washing machine as claimed in claim 34, wherein the input
unit and display unit include an LCD touch screen.
36. The washing machine as claimed in claim 34, further comprising
an additional input unit.
37. The washing machine as claimed in claim 36, wherein the
additional input unit includes a mechanically operative input
unit.
38. The washing machine as claimed in claim 37, wherein the
additional input unit includes at least one of a button type
device, and a dial button type device.
39. The washing machine as claimed in claim 29, wherein each of the
plurality of options is displayed on a single menu.
40. The washing machine as claimed in claim 29, wherein each of the
plurality of options is displayed through a high-level menu and a
low-level menu.
41. The washing machine as claimed in claim 40, further comprising
returning means for returning to the high-level menu.
42. The washing machine as claimed in claim 41, wherein the
returning means includes a mechanically activated device.
43. The washing machine as claimed in claim 40, wherein there are
at least two high-level menus.
44. The washing machine as claimed in claim 43, wherein each of the
high-level menus is selectively displayed.
45. The washing machine as claimed in claim 44, further comprising
alternating means for moving to another high-level menu.
46. The washing machine as claimed in claim 45, wherein the
alternating means includes a mechanically activated device.
47. The washing machine as claimed in claim 40, wherein the
high-level menu includes: a help menu for providing usage
guidelines of washing machine to the user; and a course menu for
washing laundry.
48. The washing machine as claimed in claim 30, wherein a default
menu at the time of power on of the washing machine is the course
menu.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a method and device for
displaying usage guidelines of a washing machine, and more
particularly, to a method and device for displaying usage
guidelines of a washing machine wherein a user can be guided in all
the washing processes by the respective stages.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] When most electronic appliances are purchased by a user,
owner's manuals related thereto are generally provided to the user.
The owner's manuals describe usage of the electronic appliances
according to the stages thereof. Thus, the user needs to fully know
the usage described in the owner's manuals in order to optimally
utilize the electronic appliances purchased by the user. This is
true of the washing machine.
[0003] On the other hand, a great deal of electronic appliances
currently sold on the market include a high performance
microcomputer, a mass memory capable of storing contents even when
power is turned off, a means for enabling various control
operations, and the like. These electronic appliances provide
various kinds of uses.
[0004] However, in order to utilize the various uses of the
electronic appliances, the user should refer to the owner's manuals
which have been provided to the user upon purchase of the
electronic appliances, as mentioned above. But, most users simply
look through the owner's manuals once or twice when they have just
purchased the electronic appliances, and thus, the uses of the
electronic appliances cannot but be restricted to a very general
purpose.
[0005] Accordingly, the various uses of the electronic appliances
cannot be fully utilized by the user or consumer, and consequently,
the problem that various functions of the electronic appliances
cannot be sufficiently utilized is produced.
[0006] Further, in order for the user to utilize the electronic
appliances with reference to the owner's manuals, the owner's
manuals should be always kept at a place near the electronic
appliances, and thus, it was very troublesome to use the electronic
appliances.
[0007] In particular, since the washing machine is generally
installed at a separate place such as washing room or veranda, it
is very troublesome to perform washing processes of the washing
machine with reference to the owner's manual whenever needed.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
[0008] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention
proposes a washing machine having a wash help function by which
various functions and uses thereof can be more conveniently and
efficiently utilized. Particularly, the present invention proposes
a washing machine having a wash help function by which an
additional owner's manual is not needed and which is always ready
for responding to the user's request. That is, the present
invention proposes a washing machine having a wash help function by
which various washing modes thereof can be substantially useful to
a user or consumer.
[0009] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide
a method and device for displaying usage guidelines of a washing
machine wherein a wash help function thereof is added so that a
user can always refer to the wash help function when necessary.
[0010] In order to achieve the above objects of the present
invention, there is provided a method for displaying usage
guidelines of a washing machine, comprising the steps of displaying
a plurality of menus for guiding a user in all the washing
processes by respective stages to assist the user to wash; and
displaying the usage guidelines of a menu which the user selects
among the plurality of menus.
[0011] The menus of the present invention may be constructed to
inform the user of the usage guidelines of the washing machine by
the respective stages and to cause actual washing processes to be
performed when the user follows provided instructions.
[0012] The step of displaying the usage guidelines of the menus may
comprise the steps of displaying the menus provided in accordance
with use patterns of the washing machine; sequentially displaying
the usage guidelines of the menu selected among the plurality of
the menus; and displaying the washing process which is actually
performed when the user follows the usage guidelines.
[0013] The menus of the present invention may be constructed to
check and troubleshoot problems related to performance of the
washing machine.
[0014] The menus of the present invention may be constructed to
provide the user with features of respective courses in the washing
machine.
[0015] The menus of the present invention may be constructed to
allow the user to select an initial screen which is displayed when
the user turns on the washing machine.
[0016] The usage guidelines of the present invention can be always
referred to upon request of the user when electric power has been
supplied to the washing machine.
[0017] A device for displaying usage guidelines of a washing
machine for achieving the above objects of the present invention
comprises a display unit for displaying a plurality of menus for
guiding a user in all the washing processes by respective stages to
assist the user to wash, and the usage guidelines of a menu which
the user selects among the plurality of menus; a memory for storing
usage guideline data of all the menus to be displayed onto the
display unit; and a control means for controlling the device such
that the usage guideline data stored in the memory can be displayed
onto the display unit.
[0018] Further, there is provided a method for displaying usage
guidelines of a washing machine, comprising the steps of displaying
an initial menu for guiding a user in all the washing processes by
respective stages to assist the user to wash when a special button
is selected in a state where electric power is supplied to the
washing machine; rotating a dial button to go into a desired item
among the initial menu; pressing down the dial button to select the
desired item; and displaying the usage guidelines of the selected
item.
[0019] Furthermore, there is provided a method for displaying usage
guidelines of a washing machine, comprising the steps of displaying
an initial menu for guiding a user in all the washing processes by
respective stages to assist the user to wash when a help button is
selected in a state where electric power is supplied to the washing
machine; displaying the usage guidelines of a menu which the user
selects among the initial menu; and moving to and displaying again
the initial menu when a help button is selected in the course of
the displaying steps.
[0020] In addition, there is provided a method for displaying usage
guidelines of a washing machine, comprising the steps of displaying
an initial wash course menu for performing washing processes when
electric power is supplied to the washing machine; displaying an
initial menu for guiding a user in all the washing processes by
respective stages to assist the user to wash when a help button is
selected while the initial wash course menu is displayed;
displaying the usage guidelines of a menu which the user selects
among the initial menu; and moving to and displaying again the
initial wash course menu when a return button is selected in the
course of the displaying steps.
[0021] Also, there is provided a method for displaying usage
guidelines of a washing machine, comprising the steps of performing
washing processes in accordance with user's selection; pausing the
washing processes; and displaying an initial menu for guiding a
user in all the washing processes by respective stages to assist
the user to wash when a help button is selected in a state where
the washing processes are paused.
[0022] Also, there is provide a method for displaying usage
guidelines of a washing machine, comprising the steps of setting
one or more wash courses classified in accordance with wash
patterns of the washing machine, kinds of clothes, and use
conditions thereof, and storing the usage guidelines of the
respective wash courses; displaying a plurality of menus for the
wash courses in order to guide a user in all the stored courses by
respective stages; selecting a desired course among the plurality
of the course menus; and displaying the usage guidelines of the
selected course.
[0023] Also, there is a method for displaying usage guidelines of a
washing machine, comprising the steps of arranging a plurality of
buttons for performing washing processes of the washing machine,
and storing the usage guidelines corresponding to the respective
buttons; selecting a desired button among the arranged buttons; and
displaying the usage guidelines of the selected button.
[0024] Also, there is provided a method for displaying usage
guidelines of a washing machine, comprising the steps of setting
one or more wash courses classified in accordance with wash
patterns of the washing machine, kinds of clothes, and use
conditions thereof, and storing washing stages of the respective
wash courses and the usage guidelines of the respective washing
stages; displaying a plurality of menus for the stored wash
courses; selecting a desired wash course among the plurality of the
wash course menus; and sequentially displaying the usage guidelines
of the respective washing stages of the selected wash course.
[0025] Also, there is provided a method for displaying usage
guidelines of a washing machine, comprising the steps of setting
one or more usage guidelines classified in accordance with
pollution categories of laundry, and storing the usage guidelines
corresponding to the respective pollution categories of the
laundry; selecting a desired pollution category among the set
pollution categories; and displaying the usage guidelines
corresponding to the selected pollution category.
[0026] Also, there is provided a method for displaying usage
guidelines of a washing machine, comprising the steps of setting
one or more usage guidelines classified in accordance with fabric
care labels, and storing the usage guidelines according to the
respective care labels; selecting a desired care label among the
set care labels; and displaying the usage guidelines corresponding
to the selected care label.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1a is a perspective view of a washing machine according
to the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 1b is a block diagram showing the constitution for
controlling a wash help according to the present invention.
[0029] FIGS. 2a to 2d are operating flowcharts of the wash help
according to the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 3 is an illustrative view of a menu configuration for
the wash help according to the present invention.
[0031] FIGS. 4a to 4d are operating flowcharts for sequentially
illustrating usage guidelines corresponding to a "course
explanation" menu of the wash help of the present invention.
[0032] FIGS. 5a and 5b are operating flowcharts for sequentially
illustrating usage guidelines corresponding to a "button
explanation" menu of the wash help of the present invention.
[0033] FIGS. 6 to 13 are operating flowcharts for sequentially
illustrating usage guidelines corresponding to a "washing
following" menu of the wash help of the present invention.
[0034] FIGS. 14 to 17 are procedural views illustrating how to
provide various kinds of information on a "washing tip" menu of the
wash help according to the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 18 is a procedural view for sequentially illustrating
usage guidelines corresponding to a "before calling for service"
menu of the wash help according to the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 19 is an operating flowchart for sequentially
illustrating usage guidelines corresponding to an "initial screen
selection" menu of the wash help according to the present
invention.
[0037] FIG. 20 is a view for illustrating various kinds of
indications provided in the wash help according to the present
invention.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0038] Hereinafter, a method and device for displaying usage
guidelines of a washing machine of the present invention will be
described in detail with reference to the accompanying
drawings.
[0039] FIG. 1a is a perspective view of the washing machine
according to the present invention. As shown in the figure, a top
cover 6 is installed at an upper face of an outer casing 4 in which
a washing tub 2 is placed. A front panel 10 sloping at a
predetermined angle is installed in the rear of the top cover 6.
The front panel 10 is a portion for inputting a washing function
that a user wishes to select or displaying a washing process
performed in accordance with the inputted function to the user when
washing is performed in the washing machine.
[0040] The front panel 10 includes an LCD display unit 40 for
displaying usage guidelines for any menus of a wash help. Further,
the panel includes various kinds of buttons such as a dial button
14 and a return button 16 which are included in the signal input
unit 10 to be described later.
[0041] FIG. 1b is a constitutional view of a device for displaying
usage guidelines of the washing machine according to the present
invention.
[0042] The washing machine of the present invention is
characterized by a wash help function. A wash help serves to
explain to the user all the washing processes according to the
respective items, which include a "course explanation" menu for
explaining features of the respective courses and washable clothes;
a "button explanation" menu for explaining functions of selected
buttons such as a wash button, a rinse button, a spin button, a
reservation button, a water current button, a water level button,
and a hot/cold water button; a "washing following" menu in which
the usages corresponding to the respective items are explained to
an inexperienced person who does not know the usage of the washing
machine and the washing processes are actually performed when the
user follows the instructions on the explained usages; a "washing
tip" menu for explaining care labels of the clothes and providing
various kinds of life information useful for washing; a "before
calling for service" menu in which the user can personally check
and troubleshoot problems of performance of and complaint about the
washing machine when utilizing the washing machine; and an "initial
screen selection" menu for selecting an initial screen.
[0043] Therefore, the device for displaying usage guidelines of the
washing machine according to the present invention is provided with
the signal input unit 10 including the buttons such as a wash
button, a rinse button, a spin button, a reservation button, a
water current button, a water level button, a cold/hot water
button, a start/pause button, a help button, a my favorite making
button, a return button 16, a dial button 14, and a power button.
When any one of the buttons is selected through the signal input
unit 10, the selection of the button is encoded and then the
encoded signal is inputted to the microcontroller 20 to be
described later. The micrcontroller 20 and the signal input unit 10
are in a state where commands to the respective buttons have been
previously set therein.
[0044] In particular, the help button in the signal input unit 10
is an operating button for actuating the wash help which will be
explained in the present invention. Further, the dial button 14 in
the signal input unit 10 is an operating button for performing a
function of moving a cursor (inverse image) upon rotation of a dial
and for selecting an item where the cursor (inverse image) is
currently positioned.
[0045] The device for displaying the usage guidelines of the
washing machine according to the present invention includes a
memory 30 for storing the usage guidelines for the various menus in
the wash help. Data stored into the memory 30 are comprised of
letters, numerals, figures, and the like included in the respective
usage guidelines. Further, when the user has set the washing
process at his/her own will by using the "my favorite making
button," the memory 30 may hold and store the set washing process.
Therefore, the data can be read from or written onto the memory 30
under the control of the microcontroller 20.
[0046] Furthermore, the device for displaying the usage guidelines
of the washing machine according to the present invention includes
a ROM 60 in which a control program for operating the wash help is
stored. Data stored in the ROM 60 are comprised of data which
cannot be arbitrarily updated by the user. For example, the data
are comprised of a control program for controlling the wash help as
a whole, a control program for operating the washing machine and
the like, and can be only read.
[0047] The microcontroller 20 proceeds with the wash help in
accordance with the wash help control program. Further, when the
user selects an arbitrary menu in the wash help, the
microcontroller reads the usage guidelines corresponding to the
selected menu from the memory 30 and outputs the guidelines.
[0048] In addition, the device for displaying the usage guidelines
of the washing machine includes the LCD display unit 40 for
displaying the usage guidelines for the arbitrary menus in the wash
help which are outputted under the control of the microcontroller
20, and an LCD driving unit 50 for driving the LCD display unit
40.
[0049] The usage guidelines of the washing machine according to the
present invention constructed as such are indicated as follows.
[0050] FIG. 2a is an operating flowchart for illustrating the
processes of the wash help according to the present invention.
[0051] When the user selects the "power button" in the signal input
unit 10, a code signal corresponding to the power button is applied
from the signal input unit 10 to the microcontroller 20 (step 100).
When the code signal corresponding to the power button is inputted
to the microcontroller 20 in step 100, electric power is supplied
to respective components of the washing machine under the control
of the microcontroller so that the washing machine is in a standby
state where it is ready for washing (step 103).
[0052] In the standby state of step 103, the microcontroller 20
monitors whether any signals corresponding to the arbitrary buttons
are inputted thereto. When the user selects the "help button"
during the monitoring operation, the signal input unit 10 transfers
the code signal corresponding to the help button to the
microcontroller 20 (step 106).
[0053] If the help button is pressed down in step 106, the wash
help starts to operate. Similarly, if any buttons for performing
the arbitrary washing processes are pressed down in the standby
state of step 103, the microcontroller 20 proceeds with the
relevant processes.
[0054] The microcontroller 20 recognizes through the input of the
help button in step 106 that the operation of the wash help is
currently requested by the user. Then, the microcontroller 20
proceeds with the wash help sequentially in accordance with the
control program stored in the ROM 60 for operating the wash
help.
[0055] First, the microcontroller 20 reads an initial menu of the
wash help and displays the initial menu onto the LCD display unit
40 (step 109).
[0056] If the initial menu of the wash help is displayed onto the
LCD display unit 40 in step 109, the user moves the cursor (inverse
image) to an desired item by rotating the "dial button 14" provided
in the signal input unit 10 (step 112). Then, after the cursor
(inverse image) has been placed on the desired item, the user
presses down the "dial button 14" to select the relevant item (step
115).
[0057] If the specific item of the wash help is selected in step
115, the microcontroller 20 reads the usage guidelines of the
selected item from the memory 30 (step 118). Then, the read usage
guidelines are displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 to provide
the user with the guidelines (step 121).
[0058] Thus, the wash help of the present invention can cause the
usage guidelines of the item, which the user intends to know, to be
displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 so that the user can
conveniently and easily understand the guidelines.
[0059] Next, FIGS. 2b to 2d are flowcharts illustrating interrupt
operations for going into or out from the wash help during the
operation of the wash help and during the progress of the washing
process.
[0060] FIG. 2b shows an interrupt which is used when the user
intends to cause the wash help to go into the initial menu thereof
during the progress of the wash help. That is, if the user selects
the "help button" during the arbitrary operation of the wash help
shown in FIG. 2a (step 130), a currently operated stage of the wash
help is ignored and it unconditionally goes into the initial menu
of the wash help (step 133). Then, the initial menu of the wash
help is displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 (step 136).
[0061] Thus, if the user selects the "help button" once again
during the operation of the wash help shown in FIG. 2a, it is
possible for the user to cause the wash help to go into the initial
menu thereof.
[0062] FIG. 2c shows an interrupt which is used when the user
intends to cause the wash help to be changed into an initial menu
of a washing course for performing the washing process, during the
arbitrary operation of the wash help shown in FIG. 2a. That is, if
the user selects the "return button 16" during the arbitrary
operation of the wash help shown in FIG. 2a (step 140), a currently
operating stage of the wash help is ignored and the wash help comes
to an end (step 143). Then, the standby state where the washing
process can start to operate, that is, the initial menu of the
washing course is displayed (step 146).
[0063] Thus, if the user selects the "return button 16" during the
operation of the wash help shown in FIG. 2a, it is possible for the
user to cause the wash help to go into the initial menu of the
washing course.
[0064] Next, FIG. 2d shows an interrupt for going into the wash
help during the washing.
[0065] If the user selects the "start/pause button" in the signal
input unit 10 in a state where the washing process is in progress
in accordance with a user's request or reserved operation (step
150), the current washing process of the washing machine is paused
(step 153).
[0066] If the user selects the "help button" in the signal input
unit 10 in such circumstances (step 156), the microcontroller 20
recognizes that the user requests the wash help, and causes the
initial menu of the wash help to be displayed onto the LCD display
unit 40 (step 159).
[0067] Hereinafter, the description of the operation of displaying
the usage guidelines corresponding to the item selected by the user
onto the LCD display unit 40 will be omitted, because it is
performed in the same process as the operation shown in FIG.
2a.
[0068] That is, FIG. 2d shows the interrupt which is performed when
the user intends to receive assistance of the wash help during the
washing.
[0069] Next, various menus provided in the wash help of the present
invention will be described in detail.
[0070] FIG. 3 shows an example of menus provided in the wash help
according to the present invention.
[0071] The wash help of the present invention causes higher-level
menus in the wash help shown in FIG. 3 to be sequentially displayed
onto the LCD display unit 40 whenever the user selects the "help
button" in the signal input unit 10. The screens displayed at this
time correspond to steps 200 and 203 of FIG. 4a. That is, the
screen of step 200 of FIG. 4a becomes a state of the initial menu
of the wash help, and the screen of step 203 is displayed by
rotating the dial button in order to view the next menu.
[0072] Next, FIGS. 4a to 4d sequentially show the usage guidelines
corresponding to the "course explanation" menu of the wash help
according to the present invention.
[0073] First, the user rotates the dial button to place the cursor
(inverse image) onto the "course explanation" menu in a state where
the initial menu of the wash help of step 200 is displayed onto the
LCD display unit 40. Then, the user presses down the dial button
and selects the "course explanation" menu. After the "course
explanation" menu has been selected, the microcontroller 20 reads
the usage guidelines of the "course explanation" menu from the
memory 30. Thereafter, the read usage guidelines are displayed onto
the LCD display unit 40. The displayed screen corresponds to step
206 of FIG. 4a.
[0074] Further, the user selects a desired course as instructed in
step 206 and performs the operation of retrieving the usage
guidelines related thereto. That is, the user rotates the dial
button to place the cursor (inverse image) onto the desired course
(normal wash) item (step 209), and presses down the dial button to
select the "normal wash" menu. If the "normal wash" menu is
selected, the microcontroller 20 reads the usage guidelines of the
"normal wash" menu from the memory 30. Then, the read usage
guidelines are displayed onto the LCD display unit 40. The
displayed screen corresponds to step 212 of FIG. 4a.
[0075] If the course item which the user wishes to obtain is not
the "normal wash" menu but a "strong wash" menu, the user further
rotates the dial button to place the cursor (inverse image) onto
the "strong wash" menu (step 215). Then, the user presses down the
dial button to select the "strong wash" menu. If the "strong wash"
menu is selected, the microcontroller 20 reads the usage guidelines
of the "strong wash" menu from the memory 30. Then, the read usage
guidelines are displayed onto the LCD display unit 40. The
displayed screen corresponds to step 218 of FIG. 4a.
[0076] By repeating the above processes, all the usage guidelines
of courses such as a light wash, a bedclothes wash, a wool wash, a
silent wash, a soak wash, a feed and rinse, a my favorite making
wash, an infant clothes wash, a towel wash, and a jean wash, which
have been included in the "course explanation" menu can be
selectively displayed (steps 221 to 278).
[0077] The other "course explanation" menus may be further added.
That is, a lingerie wash course in step 281, a rinse/spin course in
step 284, a heavy rinse course in step 287, and the like are
selectively displayed. In other words, FIGS. 4a to 4d show the
processes of explaining the features of various courses provided in
the washing machine, washable clothes, and the like.
[0078] Therefore, after the usage guidelines of the desired courses
provided in the "course explanation" menu of the wash help have
been displayed and provided to the user, the user should cause the
wash help to go out from the "course explanation" menu thereof.
That is, the wash help goes into the initial menu thereof so that
the user views the usage guidelines corresponding to the next item,
or it goes into the initial menu of the washing course so that the
user performs the washing process.
[0079] The user presses down the help button in order to cause the
wash help to go into the initial menu thereof from the "course
explanation" menu of the wash help. Thus, the initial menu of the
wash help is displayed onto the LCD display unit 40. Further, the
user presses down the return button in order to cause the wash help
to be changed from the "course explanation" menu of the wash help
into the initial menu of the washing course for performing the
washing process. Thus, the wash help comes to an end; and the
standby state for the washing, i.e. the initial menu of the washing
course is displayed.
[0080] Next, FIGS. 5a and 5b sequentially show the usage guidelines
corresponding to the "button explanation" menu of the wash help
according to the present invention.
[0081] If the user intends to view the usage guidelines
corresponding to the "button explanation" menu of the wash help
while the wash help is currently operated, the user presses down
the help button once again to cause the initial menu of the wash
help (step 300) to be displayed. Further, if the user wishes to
view the usage guidelines corresponding to the "button explanation"
menu of the wash help during the washing, the user consecutively
presses down the start/pause button and the help button to pause
the washing process. Then, the initial menu of the wash help (step
300) is displayed.
[0082] The user rotates the dial button to place the cursor
(inverse image) onto the "button explanation" menu in a state where
the initial menu of the wash help of step 300 is displayed onto the
LCD display unit 40. Then, the user presses down the dial button
and selects the "button explanation" menu. After the "button
explanation" menu has been selected, the microcontroller 20 reads
the usage guidelines of the "button explanation" menu from the
memory 30. Thereafter, the read usage guidelines are displayed onto
the LCD display unit 40. The displayed screen corresponds to step
303 of FIG. 5a.
[0083] Further, the user presses down a relevant button as
instructed in step 303 and performs the operation of retrieving the
usage guidelines related thereto.
[0084] The usage guidelines, which are displayed onto the LCD
display unit 40 when the user presses down the wash button, are
shown in step 306. Likewise, the usage guidelines are also
displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 by the microcontroller 20
after the microcontroller 20 recognizes that the user wishes to
view the usage guidelines corresponding to the "wash button" and
then retrieves the usage guidelines from the memory 30.
[0085] The usage guidelines, which are displayed onto the LCD
display unit 40 when the user presses down the rinse button, are
shown in step 309. Likewise, the usage guidelines are also
displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 by the microcontroller 20
after the microcontroller 20 recognizes that the user wishes to
view the usage guidelines corresponding to the "rinse button" and
then retrieves the usage guidelines from the memory 30.
[0086] By repeating the above processes, the usage guidelines
corresponding to the buttons such as spin button, water current
button, water level button, hot/cold water button, start/pause
button, reservation button, help button, my favorite making button,
and return button 16 can be selectively retrieved from the memory
30 and displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 while the "button
explanation" menu of the wash help is operated (steps 312 to
336).
[0087] That is, FIGS. 5a and 5b show the processes of explaining
functions of the respective buttons provided in the washing
machine.
[0088] Next, FIGS. 6 to 13 sequentially show the usage guidelines
corresponding to the "washing following" menu of the wash help
according to the present invention.
[0089] If the user intends to view the usage guidelines
corresponding to the "washing following" menu of the wash help or
to perform the washing in accordance with the instructions of the
"washing following" menu while the wash help is currently operated,
the user presses down the help button once again to cause the
initial menu of the wash help (step 400) to be displayed. Further,
if the user wishes to view the usage guidelines corresponding to
the "washing following" menu of the wash help during the washing,
the user consecutively presses down the start/pause button and the
help button to pause the washing process. Then, the initial menu of
the wash help (step 400) is displayed.
[0090] The user rotates the dial button to place the cursor
(inverse image) onto the "washing following" menu in a state where
the initial menu of the wash help of step 400 is displayed onto the
LCD display unit 40. Then, the user presses down the dial button to
select the "washing following" menu. After the "washing following"
menu has been selected, the microcontroller 20 causes lower-level
menus of the "washing following" menu to be displayed onto the LCD
display unit 40 (step 402).
[0091] As shown in FIG. 3, the "washing following" menu is
subdivided into a full course wash, a wash only, a rinse only, a
spin only, a rinse/spin, a reservation wash, a soak wash, and a
feed/rinse.
[0092] Thus, the user rotates the dial button to place the cursor
(inverse image) onto a desired item among the lower-level menus of
the "washing following" menu shown in step 402, and then presses
down the dial button to select the desired item.
[0093] If the "full course wash" is selected as a first item of the
"washing following" menu, the microcontroller 20 retrieves the
usage guidelines of the "full course wash" from the memory 30.
Thereafter, the retrieved usage guidelines are displayed onto the
LCD display unit 40. The displayed screen corresponds to step 404
of FIG. 6a.
[0094] Next, the user rotates the dial button and selects a desired
course item, as instructed in step 404. That is, when the dial
button is rotated, the contents of step 408 corresponding to the
initial menu of the washing course are displayed onto the LCD
display unit. The user rotates the dial button to place the cursor
(inverse image) onto the desired course item (silent wash), and
presses down the dial button to select the "silent wash" course
item.
[0095] If the "silent wash" course in the "full course wash" is
selected at step 408, the microcontroller 20 recognizes that the
"washing following"--the "full course wash"--the "silent wash"
course has been selected, and retrieves the usage guidelines
related thereto so that the retrieved usage guidelines are
displayed onto the LCD display unit 40. The usage guidelines
displayed as such are shown in step 410.
[0096] Thereafter, the user presses down the operating button for
performing the "silent wash" in accordance with the usage
guidelines displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 at step 410.
[0097] If the course the user wishes to perform is not the "washing
following"--the "full course wash"--the "silent wash" course
although the above processes have already proceeded, the user
should select the help button. The selection of the help button
allows the wash help to go into the initial menu screen thereof
regardless of any location of the wash help. Thus, the
microcontroller 20 causes the wash help to go into the initial menu
thereof which is in turn displayed onto the LCD display unit 40.
The displayed screen corresponds to step 412.
[0098] In step 412, the user selects the "washing following" menu
from the initial menu of the wash help by using the dial button. In
step 414, the user further selects the "wash only" among the
subdivided items of the "washing following" menu by using the dial
button.
[0099] If the "washing following"--the "wash only" course is
selected at step 414, the microcontroller 20 retrieves the usage
guidelines of the "wash only" from the memory 30, and causes the
usage guidelines to be displayed onto the LCD display unit 40. The
displayed screen corresponds to step 416.
[0100] Thereafter, the user presses down the operating button for
performing the "wash only" in accordance with the usage guidelines
displayed at step 416. Then, the user selects a washing time and
presses down the operating button to perform the "washing
following"--the "wash only" course (steps 418 and 420).
[0101] FIG. 8 shows a process of the "rinse only" in the "washing
following" menu.
[0102] That is, the initial menu of the wash help is displayed by
selecting the help button (step 422), and the "rinse only" menu in
the "washing following" menu is selected by rotating and pressing
down the dial button (step 424).
[0103] If the "rinse only" is selected at step 424, the
microcontroller 20 retrieves the usage guidelines corresponding to
the "rinse only" course from the memory 30 and causes the usage
guidelines to be displayed onto the LCD display unit 40. The
retrieved usage guidelines are shown in step 426.
[0104] Thereafter, the user selects the rinse button in accordance
with the usage guidelines displayed at step 426, selects the number
of times of rinse, and presses down an operating button for
performing the "rinse only" course. Thus, the operation of the
"rinse only" course starts (steps 428 and 430).
[0105] FIG. 9 shows a process of the "spin only" in the "washing
following" menu.
[0106] That is, the initial menu of the wash help is displayed by
selecting the help button (step 432), and the "spin only" in the
"washing following" menu is selected by rotating and pressing down
the dial button (step 434).
[0107] If the "spin only" is selected at step 434, the
microcontroller 20 retrieves the usage guidelines corresponding to
the "spin only" course from the memory 30 and causes the usage
guidelines to be displayed onto the LCD display unit 40. The
retrieved usage guidelines are shown in step 436.
[0108] Thereafter, the user selects the spin button in accordance
with the usage guidelines displayed at step 436, selects the spin
time, and presses down an operating button for performing the "spin
only" course. Thus, the operation of the "spin only" course starts
(steps 438 and 440).
[0109] FIG. 10 shows a process of the "rinse/spin only" in the
"washing following" menu.
[0110] That is, the initial menu of the wash help is displayed by
selecting the help button (step 442), and the "rinse/spin only" in
the "washing following" menu is selected by rotating and pressing
down the dial button (steps 444 and 446).
[0111] If the "rinse/spin only" is selected at step 446, the
microcontroller 20 retrieves the usage guidelines corresponding to
the "rinse/spin only" course from the memory 30 and causes the
usage guidelines to be displayed onto the LCD display unit 40. The
retrieved usage guidelines are shown in step 448.
[0112] Thereafter, the user selects the rinse button in accordance
with the usage guidelines displayed at step 448 and selects the
number of times of rinse (step 450). If the user selects the number
of times of rinse at step 450, a message for confirming the
selected number of times of rinse and the instructions for the next
operation are displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 (step
452).
[0113] Further, if the user presses down the spin button and
selects the spin time in accordance with the usage guidelines
displayed at step 452 (step 454), the usage guidelines for
confirming the number of times of rinse and the spin time the user
selected and informing that the "rinse/spin only" operation will
start when pressing down the operating button are displayed onto
the LCD display unit 40 (step 456).
[0114] FIG. 11 shows a process of the "reservation wash" in the
"washing following" menu.
[0115] That is, the initial menu of the wash help is displayed by
selecting the help button (step 458), and the "reservation wash" in
the "washing following" menu is selected by rotating and pressing
down the dial button (steps 460 and 462).
[0116] If the "reservation wash" is selected at step 462, the
microcontroller 20 retrieves the usage guidelines corresponding to
the "reservation wash" course from the memory 30 and causes the
usage guidelines to be displayed onto the LCD display unit 40. The
retrieved usage guidelines are shown in step 464.
[0117] Thereafter, the user selects a course the user wishes to
perform the "reservation wash" course in accordance with the usage
guidelines displayed at step 464 (step 466). If the desired course
is selected at step 466, a message for confirming the selected
course and the instructions for the next operation are displayed
onto the LCD display unit 40 (step 468).
[0118] Thereafter, if the user presses down the reservation button
and selects the reservation time in accordance with the usage
guidelines displayed at step 468, the usage guidelines
corresponding to the reservation course and time selected by the
user are displayed (step 470). Further, the usage guidelines for
confirming the selected contents and informing that the
"reservation wash" operation will start when pressing down the
operating button are displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 (step
472).
[0119] FIG. 12 shows a process of the "soak wash" in the "washing
following" menu.
[0120] That is, the initial menu of the wash help is displayed by
selecting the help button (step 474), and the "soak wash" in the
"washing following" menu is selected by rotating and pressing down
the dial button (steps 476 and 478).
[0121] If the "soak wash" is selected at step 478, the
microcontroller 20 retrieves the usage guidelines and instructions
corresponding to the "soak wash" course from the memory 30 and
causes the guidelines and instructions to be displayed onto the LCD
display unit 40. The retrieved usage guidelines and instructions
are shown in step 480.
[0122] Thereafter, the user selects the "soak wash" course the user
wishes to make in accordance with the usage guidelines and
instructions displayed at step 480 (step 482). If the desired
course is selected at step 482, a message for confirming the
selected course and the instructions for the next operation are
displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 (step 484). Then, the
operation of the "soak wash" will start when pressing down the
operating button (step 486).
[0123] FIG. 13 shows a process of the "feed/rinse wash" in the
"washing following" menu.
[0124] That is, the initial menu of the wash help is displayed by
selecting the help button (step 488), and the "feed/rinse wash" in
the "washing following" menu is selected by rotating and pressing
down the dial button (steps 490 and 491).
[0125] If the "feed/rinse wash" is selected at step 491, the
microcontroller 20 retrieves the usage guidelines and instructions
corresponding to the "feed/rinse wash" course from the memory 30
and causes the guidelines and instructions to be displayed onto the
LCD display unit 40. The retrieved usage guidelines and
instructions are shown in step 492.
[0126] Thereafter, the user selects the "feed/rinse wash" course
the user wishes to make in accordance with the usage guidelines and
instructions displayed at step 492 (step 493). If the "bedclothes
wash" course is selected as shown in step 493, a message for
confirming the selected course and the instructions for the next
operation are displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 (step
494).
[0127] In step 494, it is instructed that the water level should be
selected by pressing down the water level button. Thus, the user
selects the water level in step 495, and a message for confirming
the selected course and water level and the instructions for the
next operation are displayed in step 496.
[0128] If the number of times of feed/rinse is selected in
accordance with the instructions in step 496 (step 497), the usage
guidelines for confirming the selected contents of the "feed/rinse"
course and informing that the "feed/rinse" operation will start
when pressing down the operating button are finally displayed onto
the LCD display unit 40 in step 498.
[0129] That is, the processes shown in FIGS. 6 to 13 are processes
which are operated according to the "washing following" menu of the
wash help. In other words, the processes correspond to guides which
inform the inexperienced person, who does not well know usage of
the washing machine, of the usage and instructions by the
respective stages so that actual washing processes can be performed
when the inexperienced person operate the washing machine according
to the informed instructions.
[0130] Next, FIGS. 14 to 17 show the processes of providing the
user with various kinds of information on the "washing tip" menu in
the wash help.
[0131] FIG. 14 is a procedural view for illustrating a "method for
removing stains" menu corresponding to a lower-level menu of the
"washing tip" menu in the wash help.
[0132] First, if the user selects the help button in the signal
input unit 10, the initial menu of the wash help is displayed (step
500). When the initial menu shown in step 500 is displayed, the
user rotates the dial button to place the cursor (inverse image)
onto the "washing tip" menu and presses down the dial button to
select the "washing tip" menu.
[0133] If the "washing tip" menu of the wash help is selected, the
lower-level menus of the "washing tip" menu are displayed onto the
LCD display unit 40 (step 502). Thus, step 504 corresponds to a
case where the "how to remove stains" menu corresponding to a first
menu among the lower-level menus of the "washing tip" menu is
selected.
[0134] That is, the "how to remove stains" menu describes how to
remove the stains according to the stain categories. Thus, the user
rotates the dial button until usage guidelines for the stains which
the user wishes to remove are displayed onto the LCD display unit
40. According to the user's rotation of the dial button, the
microcontroller 20 retrieves the usage guidelines of the "how to
remove stains" menu stored in the memory 30, and displays them onto
the LCD display unit 40. Thus, in steps 504 to 518, the stain
categories and methods of removing the respective stains, which are
provided in the washing machine of the present invention, are
explained to the user.
[0135] FIG. 15 is a procedural view for illustrating a "how to read
care labels" menu corresponding to another lower-level menu of the
"washing tip" menu in the wash help.
[0136] If the user selects the help button in the signal input unit
10, the initial menu of the wash help is displayed (step 520). When
the initial menu shown in FIG. 520 is displayed, the user rotates
the dial button to place the cursor (inverse image) onto the
"washing tip" menu and presses down the dial button to select the
"washing tip" menu.
[0137] If the "washing tip" menu of the wash help is selected, the
lower-level menus of the "washing tip" menu are displayed onto the
LCD display unit 40 (step 522). Thus, step 524 corresponds to a
case where the "how to read care labels" menu corresponding to a
second menu among the lower-level menus of the "washing tip" menu
is selected.
[0138] That is, the "how to read care labels" menu illustrates
fabric care labels. Thus, the user rotates the dial button until
usage guidelines for a fabric care label which the user wishes to
read are displayed onto the LCD display unit 40. According to the
user's rotation of the dial button, the microcontroller 20
retrieves the usage guidelines of the "how to read care labels"
menu stored in the memory 30, and displays them onto the LCD
display unit 40. Thus, in steps 524 to 550, the fabric care labels
provided in the washing machine of the present invention are
explained to the user. These fabric care labels are sequentially
displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 in accordance with the
rotation of the dial button.
[0139] FIG. 16 is a procedural view for illustrating a "checkpoint
before washing" menu corresponding to a further lower-level menu of
the "washing tip" menu in the wash help.
[0140] If the user selects the help button in the signal input unit
10, the initial menu of the wash help is displayed (step 556). When
the initial menu shown in FIG. 556 is displayed, the user rotates
the dial button to place the cursor (inverse image) onto the
"washing tip" menu and presses down the dial button to select the
"washing tip" menu.
[0141] If the "washing tip" menu of the wash help is selected, the
lower-level menus of the "washing tip" menu are displayed onto the
LCD display unit 40 (step 558). Thus, step 558 corresponds to a
case where the "checkpoint before washing" menu corresponding to a
third menu among the lower-level menus of the "washing tip" menu is
selected.
[0142] That is, the "checkpoint before washing" menu provides the
user with the usage guidelines for the sorting and washability of
laundry before loading the laundry into the washing tub and washing
the laundry, for example, so that the user can check whether the
laundry is washable and separate white fabrics from colored fabrics
before washing. Thus, the user rotates the dial button to confirm
the "checkpoint before washing" menu displayed onto the LCD display
unit 40.
[0143] Further, according to the user's rotation of the dial
button, the microcontroller 20 sequentially retrieves the usage
guidelines of the "checkpoint before washing" menu stored in the
memory 30, and causes them to be displayed onto the LCD display
unit 40. Thus, in steps 560 to 574, the checkpoints before washing
provided in the washing machine of the present invention are
explained to the user. These checkpoints before washing are
sequentially displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 in accordance
with the rotation of the dial button.
[0144] FIG. 17 is a procedural view for illustrating a "detergent,
softener and bleach" menu corresponding to a further lower-level
menu of the "washing tip" menu in the wash help.
[0145] If the user selects the help button in the signal input unit
10, the initial menu of the wash help is displayed (step 576). When
the initial menu shown in step 576 is displayed, the user rotates
the dial button to place the cursor (inverse image) onto the
"washing tip" menu and presses down the dial button to select the
"washing tip" menu.
[0146] If the "washing tip" menu of the wash help is selected, the
lower-level menus of the "washing tip" menu are displayed onto the
LCD display unit 40 (step 578). Thus, step 578 corresponds to a
case where the "detergent, softener and bleach" menu corresponding
to a fourth menu among the lower-level menus of the "washing tip"
menu is selected.
[0147] That is, the "detergent, softener and bleach" menu
illustrates usages of the detergent, softener and bleach and the
amounts thereof used. Thus, the user confirms the desired contents
of the "detergent, softener and bleach" menu displayed onto the LCD
display unit 40 while rotating the dial button.
[0148] Further, according to the user's rotation of the dial
button, the microcontroller 20 sequentially retrieves the usage
guidelines of the "detergent, softener and bleach" menu stored in
the memory 30, and causes them to be displayed onto the LCD display
unit 40. Thus, in steps 580 to 584, the "detergent, softener and
bleach" menu provided in the wash help is explained to the user.
The usage guidelines of the "detergent, softener and bleach" menu
are sequentially displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 in
accordance with the rotation of the dial button.
[0149] That is, FIGS. 14 to 17 illustrate the processes of
providing various information which is useful for washing.
[0150] FIG. 18 is a procedural view for illustrating the operation
of a "before calling for service" menu in the wash help.
[0151] If the user selects the help button in the signal input unit
10, the initial menu of the wash help is displayed (step 600). When
the initial menu shown in step 600 is displayed, the user rotates
the dial button to place the cursor (inverse image) onto the
"before calling for service" menu and presses down the dial button
to select the "before calling for service" menu.
[0152] If the "before calling for service" menu of the wash help is
selected, the lower-level menus of the "before calling for service"
menu are displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 (step 604). Thus,
steps 604, 608 and 612 correspond to processes of selecting problem
items occurring upon use of the washing machine.
[0153] Step 604 corresponds to a case where a "when vibration and
noise are generated" menu is selected, and step 606 shows usage
guidelines which are displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 when
the "when laundry is shrunk or tangled" menu has been selected.
[0154] Step 608 corresponds to a case where a "when laundry is
shrunk or tangled" menu is selected, and step 610 shows usage
guidelines which are displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 when
the "when laundry is shrunk or tangled" menu has been selected.
[0155] Step 612 corresponds to a case where a "when fluff is
produced" menu is selected, and step 614 shows usage guidelines
which are displayed onto the LCD display unit 40 when the "when
fluff is produced" menu has been selected.
[0156] According to the user's rotation of the dial button, the
microcontroller 20 sequentially retrieves the usage guidelines of
the "before calling for service" menu stored in the memory 30, and
causes them to be displayed onto the LCD display unit 40. Thus,
steps 604 to 614 show the usage guidelines of the "before calling
for service" menu provided in the wash help. The usage guidelines
of the "before calling for service" menu are sequentially displayed
onto the LCD display unit 40 in accordance with the rotation of the
dial button.
[0157] That is, FIG. 18 illustrates the processes of guiding the
user to checking stages so that the user can personally check and
troubleshoot the problems related to the performance of the washing
machine occurring in use.
[0158] Next, FIG. 19 is a procedural view for sequentially
illustrating the operation of the "initial screen selection" menu
in the wash help.
[0159] If the user selects the power button in the signal input
unit 10 so as to supply the washing machine with the electric
power, the code signal corresponding to the power button is
inputted into the microcontroller 20. The microcontroller 20
recognizes by the inputted code signal that the user intends to
utilize the washing machine. And then, the electric power is
supplied to the respective components of the washing machine under
the control of the microcontroller 20.
[0160] In addition, the microcontroller 20 retrieves the standby
state capable of performing the washing from the memory 30 and
causes the state to be displayed onto the LCD display unit 40. In
such a case, an initial menu of a washing course capable of
performing the washing process is generally displayed onto the LCD
display unit 40. Alternatively, a logo in which the features of the
washing machine are implied and data such as usage precautions may
be displayed.
[0161] That is, in a state where the initial menu of the washing
course is displayed onto the LCD display unit 40, the
microcontroller 20 monitors whether signals for the next operation
are inputted.
[0162] At this time, if the user selects the "help button" provided
in the signal input unit 10, the microcontroller 20 recognizes that
the user has selected the wash help, retrieves initial screen data
on the wash help from the memory 30, and causes the initial menu
screen of the wash help to be displayed onto the LCD display unit
40. That is, the state where the initial menu screen is displayed
onto the LCD display unit 40 is shown in step 700 of FIG. 19.
[0163] As shown in step 700 of FIG. 19, in a state where the
initial menu of the wash help is displayed, the user rotates the
dial button to place the cursor (inverse image) onto the "initial
screen selection" menu. That is, the state of the LCD display unit
40 where the cursor (inverse image) is placed onto the "initial
screen selection" menu of the wash help is shown in step 702 of
FIG. 19. Then, the user presses down the dial button to select the
"initial screen selection" menu.
[0164] As shown in step 702 of FIG. 19, if the "initial screen
selection" menu of the wash help is selected, the user determines
whether to display an animation and precautions before washing
(step 704 of FIG. 19) or not (step 706 of FIG. 19). That is, the
user rotates the dial button to place the cursor (inverse image)
onto the desired menu, and presses down the dial button to select
the desired menu. According to the values set at this time, the
microcontroller 20 controls the displaying state of the LCD display
unit 40 which should occur just after the electric power has been
supplied to the washing machine.
[0165] That is, if the user selects a "display" menu in step 704,
the microcontroller 20 performs a preferential control for
displaying the animation and the precautions onto the LCD display
unit 40 just after the initial electric power has been supplied to
the washing machine. However, if the user selects a "not display"
menu in step 706, the microcontroller 20 performs a preferential
control for displaying the initial menu screen of the washing
course for starting the washing process onto the LCD display unit
40 just after the initial electric power has been supplied to the
washing machine.
[0166] In other words, depending on whether the setting operation
has been performed in step 704, when the user turns again on the
power of the washing machine, the initial menu screen of the
washing course may be displayed either after displaying the
animations and the precautions before washing or directly without
displaying the animation and the caution before washing.
[0167] Therefore, if the user has selected the "display" menu in
step 704, the microcontroller 20 performs the process of displaying
the animation such as shown in step 708 onto the LCD display unit
40 just after the power has been supplied to washing machine.
[0168] Then, after the animation has been displayed, the
microcontroller performs the next stage for displaying a
"precautions before washing" menu shown in step 710.
[0169] Thereafter, the microcontroller 20 performs the process of
displaying the initial menu of the washing course for performing
the washing process shown in step 712.
[0170] Further, if the user selects the washing course and presses
down the operating button, the wash, rinse and spin processes
selected by the user are sequentially performed.
[0171] However, if the user has selected the "not display" menu in
step 706, the microcontroller 20 displays the initial menu screen
of the washing course for starting the washing process onto the LCD
display unit 40 together with supply of the power whenever the user
turns on the power of the washing machine from now on. That is,
just after the power has been supplied, step 712 is set as a
starting stage and is then performed.
[0172] Thereafter, in the same manner as the foregoing, the wash,
rinse and spin processes are sequentially performed in accordance
with the washing course selected by the user after the operating
button has been pressed down.
[0173] That is, according to the process of FIG. 19, the user can
selectively determine whether to display the animation and the
precautions before washing, which are automatically displayed onto
the LCD display unit 40 of the washing machine when the user turns
on the power of the washing machine. The animation expresses well
the features of the washing machine of the present invention. In
the meantime, there is inconvenience in that wash waiting time is
increased since the same animation and the precautions are
displayed whenever the user turns on the power of the washing
machine. Thus, the above inconvenience can be overcome by setting
the initial screen as such. Boredom of the user produced by
repetition of the same contents can also be overcome. Accordingly,
in order to shorten the wash waiting time or to overcome the
boredom, the present invention allows the user to select the
initial screen which is displayed when the electric power is
supplied to the washing machine.
[0174] Besides, the wash help of the present invention provides the
user with usage guidelines of various kinds of indications such as
shown in FIG. 20.
[0175] According to the present invention as described above, it
should be understood that a basic technical feature of the present
invention is that the usages of the washing machine by the
respective stages are provided to the inexperienced person who does
not know well the usages, and actual processes are performed when
the user follows the provided instructions.
[0176] Further, another technical feature of the present invention
is that the user can be guided in personally checking and
troubleshooting the problems of the washing machine performance
which may occur when utilizing the washing machine.
[0177] Furthermore, the present invention is characterized in that
it can provide various kinds of information useful for washing and
explanations of the respective course features provided in the
washing machine.
[0178] It will be apparent that various changes or modifications
may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the
technical spirit and scope of the invention.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0179] As described above, it is understood that the following
advantages can be obtained from the present invention.
[0180] According to the present invention, the inexperienced person
who does not know well the usage of the washing machine can be
informed of the usage with the aid of the wash help added to the
washing machine itself. Thus, there is an advantage in that the
user can conveniently refer to the usage guidelines without reading
the owner's manual as before.
[0181] Further, according to the present invention, brief life
information useful for washing is provided in addition to the usage
of the washing machine, and a function of allowing the user to
personally check the problems related to the washing machine
performance is added to the wash help. Thus, there is another
advantage in that the user can personally check and troubleshoot
the simple problems which may occur when utilizing the washing
machine.
[0182] Accordingly, various functions and usages provided in the
washing machine can be more conveniently and efficiently utilized
in the present invention. In addition, since the wash help is
always in a standby state upon request of the user, it can be
substantially useful to the user or consumer.
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