U.S. patent application number 16/778764 was filed with the patent office on 2020-08-06 for laundry treating apparats and control method of on-line system containing the same.
The applicant listed for this patent is LG ELECTRONICS INC.. Invention is credited to Yonggyung BAE, Baekeun KWON.
Application Number | 20200248356 16/778764 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004735962 |
Filed Date | 2020-08-06 |
![](/patent/app/20200248356/US20200248356A1-20200806-D00000.png)
![](/patent/app/20200248356/US20200248356A1-20200806-D00001.png)
![](/patent/app/20200248356/US20200248356A1-20200806-D00002.png)
![](/patent/app/20200248356/US20200248356A1-20200806-D00003.png)
![](/patent/app/20200248356/US20200248356A1-20200806-D00004.png)
![](/patent/app/20200248356/US20200248356A1-20200806-D00005.png)
![](/patent/app/20200248356/US20200248356A1-20200806-D00006.png)
![](/patent/app/20200248356/US20200248356A1-20200806-D00007.png)
![](/patent/app/20200248356/US20200248356A1-20200806-D00008.png)
![](/patent/app/20200248356/US20200248356A1-20200806-D00009.png)
![](/patent/app/20200248356/US20200248356A1-20200806-D00010.png)
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20200248356 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KWON; Baekeun ; et
al. |
August 6, 2020 |
LAUNDRY TREATING APPARATS AND CONTROL METHOD OF ON-LINE SYSTEM
CONTAINING THE SAME
Abstract
The present disclosure relates to a laundry treating apparatus
that is configured to recommend one or more of the start point and
end point of at least one of a wash cycle for removing foreign
substances from laundry and a dry cycle for removing moisture from
the laundry, the laundry treating apparatus comprising an input
part that is configured to receive an input for setting one or more
of the start point and end point of the wash cycle or dry cycle; a
controller that is configured to determine one or more of the start
point and end point of the wash cycle or dry cycle, when the input
of the input part is sensed; and a display that is configured to
display one or more of the start point and end point of the wash
cycle or dry cycle determined by the controller.
Inventors: |
KWON; Baekeun; (Seoul,
KR) ; BAE; Yonggyung; (Seoul, KR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LG ELECTRONICS INC. |
Seoul |
|
KR |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004735962 |
Appl. No.: |
16/778764 |
Filed: |
January 31, 2020 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 34/06 20200201;
D06F 34/04 20200201; D06F 33/44 20200201; D06F 34/32 20200201; D06F
2105/56 20200201; D06F 2105/50 20200201; D06F 2101/14 20200201 |
International
Class: |
D06F 33/44 20060101
D06F033/44; D06F 34/04 20060101 D06F034/04; D06F 34/06 20060101
D06F034/06; D06F 34/32 20060101 D06F034/32 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Feb 1, 2019 |
KR |
10-2019-0013431 |
Claims
1. A laundry treating apparatus configured to recommend one or more
of the start point and end point of one or more of a wash cycle for
removing foreign substances from laundry and a dry cycle for
removing moisture from the laundry, the laundry treating apparatus
comprising: an input part configured to receive an input for
setting one or more of the start point and end point of the wash
cycle or dry cycle; a controller configured to determine one or
more of the start point and end point of the wash cycle or dry
cycle, when the input of the input part is sensed; and a display
configured to display one or more of the start point and end points
of the wash cycle or dry cycle determined by the controller.
2. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the
controller determines one or more of the start point and end point
simultaneously when sensing the input from the input part.
3. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the input
part comprises: a requesting unit configured to receive a command
for facilitating the controller pre-determining one or more of the
start point and end point, wherein the controller determines one or
more of the start point and end point based on that sensing that
the requesting unit is input.
4. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the
controller determines one or more of the start point and end point
of the wash cycle or dry cycle by figuring out a pattern based on
former start and end points.
5. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 4, wherein the
controller is configured to confirm the pattern when sensing that
the start point and end point is set in a specific time range at a
specific frequency or more.
6. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 5, wherein the
controller is configured to determine a specific time in the
pattern and set the determined time to be the start or end
point.
7. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 5, wherein the
controller is configured to determine one or more of the start
point and end point of the wash cycle or dry cycle in the specific
time range, once confirming the pattern.
8. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 5, wherein the
controller is configured to determine whether an additional pattern
is confirmed or the confirmed pattern is changed, after confirming
the pattern.
9. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 8, wherein the
controller is configured to ignore the start or end point when
confirming the additional pattern or changing the confirmed
pattern, once the start or end point of the wash cycle or dry cycle
within the specific time range is input.
10. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 8, wherein the
controller is configured to confirm the setting of the start or end
point in a different specific time range as the additional pattern
or changes to the confirmed pattern, when sensing that the start or
end point is set in the different specific time range after the
confirming of the pattern.
11. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the
controller is configured to determine two or more of the start or
end points that are selected by the user.
12. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein even when
the start or end point of the wash cycle or dry cycle determined by
the controller is displayed on the display, the input part is
configured to facilitate an input of a new start or end point.
13. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 12, wherein the
controller is configured to use the input start or end point in
figuring out the pattern, when a new start or end point is input to
the input part.
14. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
a communication module configured to transmit information for
facilitating the controller to determine the start or end point of
the wash cycle or dry cycle by means of communication with a server
or an external terminal, wherein the controller is configured to
determine the start or end point based on the information
transmitted from the server or the external terminal.
15. The laundry treating apparatus of claim 14, wherein the
controller is configured to transmit the start or end point of the
performed operation to the server or the external terminal via the
communication module, when the start or end point of the operation
is set or the wash cycle or dry cycle is completed at the time set
as the start or end point of the operation.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent
Application No. 10-2019-0013431 filed on Feb. 1, 2019 in Korea, the
entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
Field of the Disclosure
[0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a laundry
treating apparatus and a control method of an online system
including the same
Background of the Disclosure
[0003] In general, a laundry treating apparatus is a home appliance
configured to perform such diverse treating processes that are
related with clothes (e.g., washing, drying, deodorizing,
wrinkle-removing and the like). The laundry treating apparatus
means a concept including a washing machine for washing clothes, a
dryer for drying wet clothes and a refresher for deodorizing the
bad smell pervaded in clothes or removing wrinkles of clothes.
[0004] Also, laundry treating apparatuses can be classified into a
top loading type and a front loading type based on a direction of
laundry loading/unloading. A typical example of such a front
loading type laundry treating apparatus is a drum washer or
dryer.
[0005] In the case of the front loading type, an introduction port
through which the laundry is introduced is provided at the front
side (or lateral side) of the cabinet and a drum shaft is
horizontal or tilted a preset angle with respect to the ground. In
the case of the top loading type, the introduction port through
which the laundry is introduced is vertically provided on the top
of the cabinet with respect to the ground.
[0006] Typically, such the laundry treating apparatus may be
configured to perform a wash cycle or a dry cycle after a user
loads clothes (hereinafter, laundry) and the user is able to load
the laundry out of the laundry treating apparatus until waiting for
the wash cycle or the dry cycle is completed.
[0007] However, it becomes difficult to wait until the wash cycle
or the dry cycle is completed, because one-person households or
double-income families are increasing drastically and for other
reasons. Accordingly, the laundry is likely to be neglected in the
laundry treating apparatus, even after the dry cycle or the wash
cycle is completed, such that it might be contaminated to
disadvantageously change a state of the laundry bad (e.g., smell
bad or cause wrinkles).
[0008] In addition, the users who have no time on their hands for
operating the laundry treating apparatus after work until bed time
are increasing. Accordingly, the situations where users have to
postpone the operation of the laundry treating apparatus might
happen frequently.
[0009] To solve such disadvantages, a time reservation setting
function is added to such the laundry treating apparatus for users
to directly set a start time or an end time of the wash cycle or
the dry cycle.
[0010] Accordingly, the users are able to set the wash cycle or dry
cycle to end at the time they want and maximize convenience and
autonomy may be maximized. As one example, a user is able to
control the operation of the laundry treating apparatus to end at
the end of the bed time or spare time so as to unload the
optimal-stated laundry out of the laundry treating apparatus
according to the user's schedule.
[0011] However, the laundry treating apparatus has a limit that the
user has to repeatedly input some buttons to set a desired
reservation time, because the area of the control panel has to be
arranged efficiently and exterior beauty has to be considered.
[0012] Even when an application or external terminal is used, the
user always has to inconveniently input a desired reservation time
whenever setting the reservation time. especially, even when trying
to reputedly perform a reservation setting at certain times or at a
specific time, the user has to directly set the reservation time
consistently, which is an inconvenient disadvantage. Accordingly, a
conventional laundry treating apparatus has a disadvantage that the
repeated process and time for performing the reservation time
setting function have to be performed disadvantageously.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0013] Accordingly, an object of the present disclosure is to
address the above-noted and other problems and provide a laundry
treating apparatus or an online system which may recommend a
specific reservation time based on the reservation time setting
history to the user.
[0014] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a
laundry treating apparatus or an online system which may figure out
a specific pattern from a reservation setting history and then
recommend a reservation time which will be set by the user based on
the specific pattern.
[0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a
laundry treating apparatus or an online system which may calculate
a user pattern, when a reservation time is set at a specific time
at a specific frequency or more, and recommend a reservation time
which will be set to the user based on the user pattern.
[0016] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a
laundry treating apparatus or an online system which may allow the
user to input a new reservation time again even when the
reservation time is recommended and correct the reservation
time.
[0017] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a
laundry treating apparatus or an online system which may check
whether a new pattern is created in another reservation pattern,
when the pattern of the reservation time is set, and set a new
reservation pattern based on the result of the checking.
[0018] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a
laundry treating apparatus or an online system which may figure out
a plurality of patterns in the reservation time setting and
recommend a reservation time based on the patterns.
[0019] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a
laundry treating apparatus or an online system which may recommend
a plurality of reservation times.
[0020] Embodiments of the present disclosure may provide a laundry
treating apparatus that is configured to recommend one or more of
the start point and end point of at least one of a wash cycle for
removing foreign substances from laundry and a dry cycle for
removing moisture from the laundry, the laundry treating apparatus
comprising: an input part that is configured to receive an input
for setting one or more of the start point and end point of the
wash cycle or dry cycle; a controller that is configured to
determine one or more of the start point and end point of the wash
cycle or dry cycle, when the input of the input part is sensed; and
a display that is configured to display one or more of the start
point and end point of the wash cycle or dry cycle determined by
the controller.
[0021] The controller may determine one or more of the start point
and end point simultaneously when sensing the input from the input
part.
[0022] The input part may comprise a requesting unit configured to
receive a command for facilitating the controller pre-determining
one or more of the start point and end point, and the controller
may determine one or more of the start point and end point when
sensing that the requesting unit is input.
[0023] The controller may determine one or more of the start point
and end point of the wash cycle or dry cycle by figuring out a
pattern based on one or more of the former set start point and end
point. The controller may confirm the pattern when sensing that one
or more of the start point and end point is set in a specific time
range at a specific frequency or more. The controller may determine
a specific time in the pattern and the determined time to be the
start or end point. The controller may determine one or more of the
start point and end point of the wash cycle or dry cycle in the
specific time range, once confirming the pattern.
[0024] The controller may determine whether an additional pattern
is confirmed or the confirmed pattern is changed, after confirming
the pattern.
[0025] The controller may ignore the start or end point when
confirming the additional pattern or changing the confirmed
pattern, once the start or end point of the wash cycle or dry cycle
within the specific time range is input.
[0026] The controller may confirm the setting of the start or end
point in a different specific time range at a specific frequency or
more as the additional pattern or changes the confirmed pattern,
when sensing that the start or end point is set in the different
specific time range at a specific frequency or more after the
confirming of the pattern.
[0027] The controller may determine two or more of the start or end
points that are selected by the user.
[0028] Even when the start or end point of the wash cycle or dry
cycle determined by the controller is displayed on the display, the
input part may be configured to facilitate an input of a new start
or end point.
[0029] The controller may use even the input start or end point in
figuring out the pattern, when a new start or end point is input to
the input part.
[0030] The laundry treating apparatus may further comprise a
communication module that is configured to transmit information for
facilitating the controller to determine the start or end point of
the wash cycle or dry cycle by means of communication with a server
or an external terminal, wherein the controller may determine the
start or end point based on the information transmitted from the
server or the external terminal.
[0031] The controller may transmit the start or end point of the
performed operation to the server or the externa terminal via the
communication module, when the start or end point of the operation
is set or the wash cycle or dry cycle is completed at the time set
as the start or end point of the operation.
[0032] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the
laundry treating apparatus has following effects.
[0033] First, the laundry treating apparatus or an online system
may recommend a specific reservation time based on the reservation
time setting history to the user.
[0034] In addition, the laundry treating apparatus or an online
system may figure out a specific pattern from a reservation setting
history and then recommend a reservation time which will be set by
the user based on the specific pattern.
[0035] In addition, the laundry treating apparatus or an online
system may calculate a user pattern, when a reservation time is set
at a specific time at a specific frequency or more, and recommend a
reservation time which will be set to the user based on the user
pattern.
[0036] In addition, the laundry treating apparatus or an online
system may allow the user to input a new reservation time again
even when the reservation time is recommended and correct the
reservation time.
[0037] In addition, the laundry treating apparatus or an online
system may check whether a new pattern is created in another
reservation pattern, when the pattern of the reservation time is
set, and set a new reservation pattern based on the result of the
checking.
[0038] In addition, the laundry treating apparatus or an online
system may figure out a plurality of patterns in the reservation
time setting and recommend a reservation time based on the
patterns.
[0039] In addition, the laundry treating apparatus or an online
system may recommend a plurality of reservation times.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0040] The present invention will become more fully understood from
the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying
drawings, which are given by illustration only, and thus are not
limitative of the present invention, and wherein:
[0041] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating examples of a laundry
treating apparatus according to the present disclosure;
[0042] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an inner structure of the
laundry treating apparatus;
[0043] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an online system for the
laundry treating apparatus;
[0044] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating one example that is
configured to set a reservation time in the laundry treating
apparatus;
[0045] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating one example that is
configured to control the laundry treating apparatus to
automatically recommend a reservation time;
[0046] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating that a reservation time is
set via an external terminal based on an online system according to
one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0047] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment that a
user's pattern is confirmed based on a history of reservation time
setting in the laundry treating apparatus;
[0048] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment that a new
pattern is additionally confirmed in the laundry treating
apparatus;
[0049] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment that a user
re-set a reservation time even the online system recommend a
reservation time;
[0050] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of a
control method of the laundry treating apparatus and the online
system according to the present disclosure
DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS
[0051] Referring to the accompanying drawings, exemplary
embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail.
Regardless of numeral references, the same or equivalent components
may be provided with the same reference numbers and description
thereof will not be repeated. If the terms disclosed in this
specification conflict with general terms, the terms may be
understood on the basis of their meanings as used in this
specification. The accompanying drawings are used to help easily
understand various technical features and it should be understood
that the embodiments presented herein are not limited by the
accompanying drawings. As such, the present disclosure should be
construed to extend to any alterations, equivalents and substitutes
in addition to those which are particularly set out in the
accompanying drawings. A singular representation may include a
plural representation unless it represents a definitely different
meaning from the context. The accompanying drawings are used to
help easily understand various technical features and it should be
understood that the embodiments presented herein are not limited by
the accompanying drawings. As such, the present disclosure should
be construed to extend to any alterations, equivalents and
substitutes in addition to those which are particularly set out in
the accompanying drawings.
[0052] A laundry treating apparatus may typically provide diverse
courses and options according to a user's convenience. Such courses
and options may include both a washing course that is used in a
washer and a drying course that is used in a dryer.
[0053] Hereinafter, the present disclosure is described based on
the courses that include the washing course that is applied to the
washer and that is only to make the description easier. The course
has to be understood to be a concept that includes a drying course
used for a dryer as well.
[0054] The course is a series of drives configured of a wash cycle
for removing foreign substances from clothes, a rinse cycle for
separating the foreign substances from a washing detergent and a
spin cycle for removing moisture from the clothes in the laundry
treating apparatus. Also, the course may be an algorithm or control
method that is preset to perform a start to the end of the washing.
At this time, the course may also include dry cycle.
[0055] FIG. 1 illustrates various examples of the laundry treating
apparatus according to the present disclosure.
[0056] The laundry treating apparatus 1 according to the present
disclosure may include an opening for loading and unloading clothes
(hereinafter, the laundry); a cabinet 21 that defines an exterior
design; and a door 22 that is configured to open and close the
opening.
[0057] Referring to FIG. 1 (a), the laundry treating apparatus 1
may be provided as a top load type including the opening 1 and the
door 22 that are formed in a top of the cabinet 21.
[0058] Referring to FIG. 1 (b), the laundry treating apparatus
according to the present disclosure may be provide as a front load
type including the opening and the door 22 that are provide in a
front of the cabinet 21.
[0059] Referring to FIG. 1 (c) or FIG. 1 (d), the laundry treating
apparatus 1 may be configured of a front type and a top load type
that are mounted vertically to perform washing and drying. As on
example, the laundry treating apparatus 1 may include a front load
type and a top load type that is mounted on the front load type
(see FIG. 1 (c)) or a front load type and a top load type that is
mounted under the bottom of the front load type (see FIG. 1
(d)).
[0060] In case the laundry treating apparatus 1 is configured of
such plural apparatuses that are multilayered, the apparatuses may
share one cabinet 21 and the cabinet 21 may have a plurality of
openings. Then, doors 22 and 22a may be provided to open and close
the plurality of the openings.
[0061] In addition, the laundry treating apparatus may include a
control panel 100 that is configured to receive, display or perform
inputs of preset operation commands. Such operation commands may
include predetermined courses or options that are preset to perform
a wash cycle configured to remove foreign substances or dirt from
laundry or a dry cycle configured to remove moisture or water
elements from the laundry.
[0062] A controller 100 may be installed in the control panel 100
to control all of the elements provided in the laundry treating
apparatus so as to perform the predetermined courses or
options.
[0063] In the controller 110 may be stored the predetermined
courses or options for providing a series of control methods
configured to perform at least one of the wash cycle for removing
foreign substances from the laundry or the dry cycle for drying the
laundry containing moisture.
[0064] When the laundry treating apparatus 1 is a washing machine,
the predetermined course may include at least one or combination of
a washing step configured to remove foreign substances from the
laundry; a rinsing step configured to separate the foreign
substances a washing detergent from the laundry; and a spinning
step for removing moisture from the laundry. When the laundry
treating apparatus 1 is a dryer, the predetermined option may be
provided as a plurality of drying steps for removing moisture or
water elements from the laundry.
[0065] Meanwhile, the predetermined options may include a series of
control methods for changing additional conditions of the course
when the course is performed.
[0066] In case the laundry treating apparatus 1 is provided as a
washing machine, the predetermined options may be a series of
control methods that are configured to adjust one or more of the
duration and the drum rotation speeds (the drum RPMs) of the
washing, rinsing and spinning steps, the rate of the drum rotation
time (the moving rate) for a preset time period, the opening time
of a water supply valve or the water amount (level), the
electricity usage, the water temperature, presence of steam supply
and the duration time of each step.
[0067] When the laundry treating apparatus 1 is provided as the
dryer, the predetermined options may be a series of control methods
that are configured to adjust one or more of the drying step
frequency, the drum RPM during the drying step, the rate of the
drum rotation time (the moving rate) for a preset time period, the
electricity usage, presence of steam supply and the duration time
of the drying step.
[0068] Meanwhile, the control panel 100 may include a display 130
configured to display a state of the laundry treating apparatus 1;
a power unit 120 configured to input a power to the laundry
treating apparatus; and an input unit 150 configured to receive an
input of a command for driving the laundry treating apparatus.
[0069] Meanwhile, the display 130 and the input part 150 are
independently provided in the control panel 100. The display 130
may be provided as a display liquid crystal and the input part 150
may be provided as an additional button (see FIG. 1 (a), FIG. 1 (b)
and FIG. 1 (c)). Alternatively, the control panel 100 may be
provided as a touch display and the functions of the display 130
and the input part 150 may be realized on one screen (see FIG. 1
(b)).
[0070] In addition, the laundry treating apparatus 1 may further
include a microphone 300 configured to recognize a user's voice;
and a camera 200 configured to recognize the user's movement.
[0071] The camera 200 may be implemented to recognize the user's
movement so as to implement the course or option. The microphone
300 may be implemented to recognize the user's voice to implement
the course or option.
[0072] In addition, it may be recognized by using the microphone
300 and the camera 200 that a child or an infant comes into the
cabinet 21 so as to notify the user or release the door locking.
Accordingly, a safety accident may be prevented.
[0073] The laundry treating apparatus 100 may further include a
speaker. Accordingly, the user may be notified of a state of
laundry treating apparatus by a sound signal.
[0074] FIG. 2 illustrates an inner structure of the laundry
treating apparatus according to one embodiment.
[0075] Specifically, FIG. 2 illustrates a specific structure of the
laundry treating apparatus that is shown in FIG. 1 (d).
[0076] That is only for description. When the laundry treating
apparatus is the front load type, the top load type or the dual
type having the front load type and the top load type that are
mounted in a multi-layered structure, only some elements of the
basic structure shown in FIG. 2 may be used or only the
installation position may be changed.
[0077] In other words, FIG. 2 illustrates the structure shown in
FIG. 1 (d) as one example to avoid repeated description and any
structures may be applicable only if capable of performing the
functions of the laundry treating apparatus.
[0078] Referring to FIG. 2, the laundry treating apparatus 1 may
include a cabinet 21 that defines an exterior design; and a laundry
accommodation part provided in the cabinet to accommodate the
laundry.
[0079] In case the laundry treating apparatus is provided as the
washing machine, the laundry accommodation part may include a tub
23 provided in the cabinet 21 and configured to hold water; and a
drum 24 rotatably mounted in the tub 23.
[0080] The laundry treating apparatus 1 may include a drive part 25
coupled to the tub 23 and configured to rotate the drum 24; a water
supply part 26 configured to supply water to the tub 23; and a
water discharge part 27 configured to discharge water from the tub
23.
[0081] Meanwhile, in case the laundry treating apparatus 1 is
provided as the dryer, the laundry accommodation part may include
only the drum 24 rotatably mounted in the cabinet 21.
[0082] Here, the laundry treating apparatus 1 may further include a
hot air supply part or a heater 29 configured to supply hot air to
the tub 23. In addition, it may include a door 22 provided to open
and close the opening of the tub 23 and the opening of the cabinet
21.
[0083] The water supply part 26 may include a water supply valve
262 and a water supply pipe 261. The water discharge part may
include a water discharge pump 271 and a water discharge pipe
272.
[0084] The drive part 25 may include a stator 251 coupled to the
tub 23 and configured to generate a rotation magnetic field; a
rotor 252 that is rotatable by the rotation magnetic field; and a
shaft 253 that is rotatable together with the rotor 252 so rotate
the drum 24.
[0085] The tub 23 may be supported to the cabinet 21 by a support
portion 28 and vibration of the tub 23 may be damped by the support
portion 28. The support portion 28 may include a damper 282 and a
spring 281 that are configured to connect the cabinet 21 and the
tub to damp the vibration.
[0086] Meanwhile, in case it is provided as the combined dual type,
the laundry treating apparatus 1 may include a second tub 23a
provided under or above the tub 23 and configured to hold water; a
second drum 24a rotatably mounted in the second tub 23a; a second
drive part 25a coupled to the second tub and configured to rotate
the second drum 24a; a second water supply part 26a configured to
supply water to the second tub 23a; and a second water discharge
part 27a configured to discharge water from the second tub 23a.
[0087] When it is provided under the tub 23 as the top load type,
the second the second tub 23a may be mounted in a drawer 21b that
may freely enter and exit with respect to the cabinet 21.
[0088] The second water supply part 26a may include a second water
supply valve 262a and a second water supply pipe 261a. The second
water discharge part 27a may include a second water discharge pump
271a and a second water discharge pipe 272a.
[0089] The second drive part 25a may include a second stator 251a
coupled to the second tub 23a and configured to generate a rotation
magnetic field; a second rotor 252a that is rotatable by the
rotation magnetic field; and a second shaft 253a that is rotatable
together with the second rotor 252a to rotate the second drum
24a.
[0090] The second tub 23a may be supported to the cabinet 21 by a
second support portion 28a and vibration of the tub 23 may be
damped by the second support portion 28.
[0091] The controller 110 of the control panel 100 may be
configured to control the second water supply unit 26a, the second
water discharge part 27a and the second drive part 25a.
[0092] Specifically, the controller 110 may be configured to
integrally control the laundry treating apparatus including the tub
23 and another laundry treating apparatus that is mounted on or
under the tub 23 as the integrated controller.
[0093] As one example, the drive unit 25, 25a, the water supply
unit 26, 26a, the water discharge unit 27, 27a and the hot air
supply unit 29 may be configured to repeat drive and pause based on
at least one of the courses and options that are preset in the
control panel 100 or the controller 110 of the laundry treating
apparatus.
[0094] As one example, the water supply valve 261, 261a may be
opening based on the input course or option and the water discharge
pup 261, 261a may be operated by rotating the drive unit 25, 25a.
however, the control panel 100 may further include an auxiliary
panel 100a additionally provided in the drawer 21b and configured
to control the second water supply part 26a, the second water
discharge part 27a and the second drive unit 25a respectively.
[0095] The auxiliary panel 100a may further include an additional
controller independently provided from the controller 100 to
independently control another laundry treating apparatus provided
on or under the tub 23.
[0096] Meanwhile, the laundry treating apparatus 1 may further
include a communication module 60 that is communicable with at
least one of a server 10 or an external terminal 40 which will be
described later.
[0097] When the laundry treating apparatus is provided as the
combined type, the control panel 100 may be divided into a control
panel configured to control the top laundry treating apparatus and
a second control panel configured to control the bottom laundry
treating apparatus. Alternatively, one control panel 100 may be
provided to control the overall operation of the combined type
laundry treating apparatus.
[0098] FIG. 3 illustrates an online system that is configured to
control the laundry treating apparatus 1.
[0099] As shown in the drawing, a wireless internet communication
module is applied to the laundry treating apparatus 1 to allow
communication with a server 10 on an internet network via AP 30
(Access Point).
[0100] The laundry treating apparatus 1 may communicate with the
server 10 to be remotely controlled by the external terminal 40 or
update data. For that, the laundry treating apparatus 1 has to
communicate with AP in the home first. Accordingly, the laundry
treating apparatus 1 may further include a communication module 60
that is configured to directly communicate AP. As one example, the
communication module may be a Wi-Fi module.
[0101] For the communication connecting of the laundry treating
apparatus, the communication module 60 may be configured to support
an enable mode that is communicable with a setting mode for the
communication connecting.
[0102] The setting mode may be a mode for allow communication with
AP. Accordingly, it may be referred to as AP mode. In addition, the
enable mode may be a state where the laundry treating apparatus can
communicate with the server via AP, in other words, a state where
data can be transceived to perform the remote control server at any
time. Specifically, it may be a standby state for the remote
control service. Accordingly, the enable mode may be referred to as
a connection mode or a standby mode.
[0103] In other words, an initial setting mode has to be performed
to communication-connect the communication module 60. Once the
communication is connected in the setting mode, the current mode
may be always converted into the enable mode.
[0104] Input means for implementing the setting mode may be
provided in the communication module 60. However, the communication
module 60 may be embedded in the laundry treating apparatus 1 in
many cases or mounted in the laundry treating apparatus as simple
type. Accordingly, the input means may be the input part 150 of the
laundry treating apparatus 1.
[0105] When communication-connected with the server 10 via AP 30,
the communication module 60 may maintain a power-on state to
consistently communicate with the server 10.
[0106] Meanwhile, considering a communication path from the laundry
treating apparatus 1 to the server 10, a public internet network
follows AP and AP follows a private internet network. The laundry
treating apparatus 1 is granted a private IP and AP 30 may have a
unique IP.
[0107] The server 10 may have IP and such IP may be a unique one.
Accordingly, the unique IP of the server may be stored in the
communication module 60 of the laundry treating apparatus (e.g.,
the Wi-Fi module) in advance. The communication module 60 of the
laundry treating apparatus may be connected by the server IP
through the activation process using the external terminal and
mutual communication may be enabled.
[0108] In that process, AP 30 may transmit information about a port
connected with the corresponding laundry treating apparatus and the
unique IP. The server 10 may figure out the location of the laundry
treating apparatus based on the information. Meanwhile, when the
laundry treating apparatus 1 also transmits the unique device IP to
the server, the server may figure out which and where laundry
treating apparatus is located and have access to the laundry
treating apparatus based on the information. In this instance, when
a user ID and passwords are input, such information may be also
transmitted to the server 10.
[0109] Accordingly, the server 10 may match a specific user'
specific laundry treating apparatus 1 with the location. When the
user sends a request for a specific service to the server via the
external terminal 40, the server 10 may specify one laundry
treating apparatus 1 and perform the service.
[0110] Meanwhile, the server 10 may connect the communication with
the external terminal 40 by the unique IP and network. A remote
communication module for connecting the communication with the
server and an application (APP) may be selectively installed in the
external terminal 40.
[0111] The external terminal 40 may be connected to the server 10
via the application by the remote communication module and control
the laundry treating apparatus 1 remotely. The user may receive
state information of the laundry treating apparatus 1 from the
server 10 through the display panel provided as the touch panel and
transmit an operation command of the laundry treating apparatus 1
to the server 10.
[0112] FIG. 4 illustrates one example of the control panel 100 that
is provided in the laundry treating apparatus 1.
[0113] Referring to FIG. 4 (a), only the display 130 may be a
display panel and the input part 150 may be a physical button that
pressed additionally.
[0114] The input part 150 may include a course input unit
configured to receive an input for selecting one of the
predetermined courses for performing a series of washing processes
that are configured to include the wash cycle, the rinse cycle and
the spin cycle; and an option select unit 160 configured to receive
an input for selecting one of the predetermined options that are
configured to adjust the strength and degree of the course.
[0115] As one example, when the laundry treating apparatus 1 is
provided as the washing machine, the courses may include a first
course that is configured of a normal washing method or combination
of the washing methods for removing foreign substances from the
laundry; a second course that is configured of a washing method or
combination of the washing methods for sterilizing the laundry; and
a third course that is configured of a washing method or
combination of the washing methods for removing foreign substances
in consideration of laundry fabric.
[0116] The options may include a first option configured to adjust
a washing degree in the selected course; a second option configured
to adjust the frequency of the rinsing; a third option configured
to adjust a spinning degree; and a fourth option configured to
determine the temperature of the water inside the tub holding the
laundry and water. The adjusting of the washing strength and the
spinning strength may mean the adjusting of the drum RPM and the
period of the drum rotation direction variation in the wash cycle
and the spin cycle.
[0117] The first course may be a normal course for washing clothes
and referred to as `Daily course`. The second course may be
classified as a course that is strong in sterilizing and referred
to as `Sanitation course`. The third course may be a course that
considers the laundry fabric and amount and referred to as
`Customized course`.
[0118] When the course select unit 140 is repeated selected, the
courses sequentially set or displayed may be displayed and
selected.
[0119] The course select unit 140 may include a first course
configured to select one of the first courses; a second course
select unit 142 configured to select one of the second courses; and
a third course select unit 143 configured to select one of the
third courses.
[0120] The option select unit 160 may be configured to select the
courses that are sequentially set or displayed after being
repeatedly input like the course select unit 140. In addition, the
option select unit 160 may include a first option select unit 161
configured to adjust the washing strength in the selected course; a
second option select unit 162 configured to adjust the ringing
frequency; a third option select unit 163 configured to adjust the
spinning strength; and a fourth option select unit 164 configured
to determine the water temperature inside the tub holding water and
laundry. The option select unit 160 may be provided to sequentially
input the option select units and select a desired one.
[0121] The display 130 may be a display liquid crystal, a light
that reflect light or a speaker that emits sound. The display 130
may include a first display unit 131 configured to display the
course selected in the course input part; and a second display unit
132 configured to display the option selected in the option select
part 160.
[0122] The first display unit 131 may be configured to display the
selected course. As one example, an area corresponding to the
selected course may flicker or the title of the course may be
displayed on the display.
[0123] The second display unit 132 may be configured to display the
selected option. As one example, an area corresponding to the
selected option may flicker or the title of the option may be
displayed on the display.
[0124] Specifically, the first display unit 131 may flicker a
corresponding course when the course input part 140 is selected. It
may display the corresponding course on the liquid crystal display
or emit a sound, when the course input unit is selected. The first
display unit 131 may be a display panel or a lamp configured to be
luminescent near the content of the course.
[0125] Once the user clicks the daily course 141, the normal course
may flick sequentially to notify the user of the corresponding
course.
[0126] In addition, once the user clicks the satiation course, the
corresponding course to the satiation course may sequentially
flicker. Then, when the user clicks the customized course, the
corresponding course to the customized course may sequentially
flicker.
[0127] The second display unit 132 may be configured to flicker a
corresponding option when the option selection part 160 is input.
Or, it may be configured to display the corresponding option on the
liquid crystal display or emit a predetermined sound when the
option select part 160 is input. The second display unit 132 may be
configured of a display panel or a lamp provided near the
characters reading the option content.
[0128] The option select part 160 may sequentially flicker the
first, second, third and fourth options by repeated clicking or
touching. Accordingly, the user may select a desired option.
[0129] Meanwhile, the option select part 160 may further include a
switch or a touch area that is configured to perform an additional
function of the laundry treating apparatus 1 rather than the
washing, the rinsing, the dehydrate-spinning and the water
temperature.
[0130] The option select part 160 may further include a steam
adjusting unit 160a configured to supply additional steam to the
inside of the laundry treating apparatus 10; a reservation unit
160b configured to determine an operation time of the laundry
treating apparatus; an auxiliary setting unit 160d configured to be
clicked to add laundry during the operation of the laundry treating
apparatus; a turbo unit 160e configured to add an option for
forming strong water currents by accelerating the drum RPM; a turbo
drying unit 160f configured to add an option for supplying strong
hot air; a wind-drying unit 160g configured to add an option for
supplying not the hot air but warm or cold air; and a time drying
unit 160h configured to add an option for performing natural drying
by rotating only the drum at a preset RPM.
[0131] The second display unit 132 may display specific details of
the options selected for the course when the course or option is
determined. In the other cases except inputting the course or
option when the dry cycle or the wash cycle is performed or the
reservation setting is performed or when the dry cycle or the wash
cycle ends, the second display unit 132 may be configured of the
display which may display information about a state of the laundry
treating apparatus 1.
[0132] The above-noted structure is one of the examples. The
control panel 100 may be configured of any display types only if
including the input part 150 configured to receive the input of the
command for driving the laundry treating apparatus 1 and the
display part 130 configured to display a state of the laundry
treating apparatus.
[0133] Hereinafter, one embodiment will be described that the user
may operate the laundry treating apparatus via the control panel
100.
[0134] The user may open the door 22 and load the laundry into the
drum 24. After that, the user inputs the power part 120 to supply
power to the control panel of the laundry treating apparatus. Once
a reservation requesting unit 160c is activated by the power
supplied to the control panel 100, the user may input the
reservation requesting unit 160c.
[0135] Once the reservation requesting unit 160c is input, a time
area 132a configured to display the time on the display unit 132
may be activated. The time may be the time when the predetermined
courses or options configured to perform the wash cycle or the dry
cycle may start or end.
[0136] The laundry treating apparatus may set a start point or an
end point of at least one of predetermined courses or options
configured to perform the wash cycle or the dry cycle. The
operation start or end point may be a random point of the time
after the reservation requesting unit 160c.
[0137] Meanwhile, the input part 160 may further include not
additional input units for setting the time at once. If an
additional input unit is provided in the control panel 100 to set
the time, the overall area of the control panel 100 might become
small enough to cause inconvenience. In addition, the course input
unit and the option input unit are already provided in the control
panel. So, if an additional input unit is provided, the exterior
design might deteriorate or the user might feel uncomfortable in
learning how to manipulate too many buttons inconveniently.
[0138] Accordingly, referring to FIG. 4 (b), the user may
continuously input the reservation requesting unit 160c and raise
or increase an hour area gradually. As one example, 01:00 is
changed into 02:00 on the time area 132a by one input. Accordingly,
the user may set the hour area as a desired time by continuous
input of the reservation requesting unit 160c. If wanting to make
reservation at 6:30, the user may press an input of the reservation
requesting unit 160c five times to set 6:00.
[0139] Referring to FIG. 4 (c), the user may set the minutes by
pressing the reservation unit 160c for a longer time period or
inputting repeatedly. As one example, if wanting to make
reservation at 6:30, the user may press the reservation requesting
unit 160c for a long time period and the minute area may then
flicker. At that time, the user may input the reservation
requesting unit 160c three times to set the minute area to be 30
minutes.
[0140] Referring to FIG. 4 (d), when setting the desired time, the
user may input an auxiliary button to transmit a command that the
reservation time is complete to the controller 110. As one example,
the user may input the manipulation part 170 to transmit the
reservation time setting command to the controller 110.
[0141] Alternatively, as different from the drawings, the control
panel 100 may be configured to allow the user to input a first
option select unit 161 so as to set the hour area of the
reservation time and input a second option select unit 162 so as to
set the minute area of the reservation time.
[0142] Meanwhile, the reservation time may be provided in the
control panel 100 to be set in various methods. However, the user
might feel inconvenient in inputting the input part 160 several
times so as to set the reservation time.
[0143] In addition, even when the reservation time is set my means
of the external terminal 40 linked to laundry treating apparatus,
the user has to touch the display several times to input the hour
and minute inconveniently.
[0144] Even when the time when the user usually makes reservation
is regularly fixed based on the user's life pattern, the user has
to set the reservation time every time.
[0145] Accordingly, the laundry treating apparatus and the online
system may be configured to recommend a reservation time to the
user as soon as the user tries to set the reservation time.
Accordingly, the present disclosure may solve the inconvenience
that the user has to input the reservation time every time or the
button several times so as to input the reservation time.
[0146] FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of the laundry treating
apparatus to recommend the reservation time.
[0147] Referring to FIG. 5 (a), the user may input the reservation
requesting unit 160c to the control panel 100 to set the
reservation time. The input of the reservation unit 160c means that
the user's willing to set the reservation time is transmitted to
the controller 110.
[0148] Referring to FIG. 5 (b), when the controller 110 senses the
input of the reservation requesting unit 160c, the controller 110
may determine a start point of an end point of the wash cycle or
dry cycle. Hence, the controller 110 may control the display 130 to
display a specific time on the time area 132a to the user. The
specific time may be a start or end point of the wash cycle or dry
cycle that is determined by the controller 110.
[0149] The controller 110 may recognize or expect the reservation
time the user wants to set and recommend the specific time. For
that, the controller 110 may figure out the user's reservation time
setting pattern based on the history of the user's former
reservation time settings. Accordingly, the controller 110 may
estimate the reservation time which the user will set and enhance
the accuracy of the expected time. As one example, the controller
may calculate and confirm the user's pattern by deep learning of
the history of the reservation time settings.
[0150] As a result, the controller 110 may be configured to display
the start point or the end point on the display 130 immediately
once sensing the input of the reservation requesting unit 160c.
Accordingly, it may be prevented that the user has to input the
input part 30 so as to set the reservation time inconveniently.
[0151] The controller 110 may determine and store the start or end
point in advance. After that, the controller 110 may display the
predetermined time on the display 130 when the reservation
requesting unit 160c is input. Alternatively, when the input of the
reservation requesting unit 130c is sensed, the start or end point
may be determined and displayed on the display 130.
[0152] Specifically, the time 133 expected to be reserved by the
user may be displayed on the second display unit 132. In addition,
requesting words for asking whether to make a reservation for the
time 133 may be displayed as well. The time 133 may be displayed
larger and prominently on the display 130. Accordingly, the user
may intuitively recognize that the time displayed on the display
130 is the recommended reservation time.
[0153] A one example, one the second display unit 132 may be
displayed the time of "6:30" that is recommended to the user and
the words of "Want to set the reservation time for this time?"
After that, the controller 110 may sense the input of the
manipulation part 170 and receive the user's intention to agree
with the recommended reservation time setting.
[0154] FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment that the reservation time
is recommended on the external terminal 40 that is configured to
control the laundry treating apparatus remotely.
[0155] The online system according to the present disclosure may
recommend the reservation time to the user on the externa terminal
40. Referring to FIG. 6 (a), the user may implement an application
41 for setting the reservation time of the laundry treating
apparatus on the externa terminal.
[0156] Referring to FIG. 6 (b), the external terminal 40 may
display a time that will be recommended to the user by its own
microcomputer, the server 10 or the controller of the laundry
treating apparatus as a popup p. as one example, the external
terminal may display the time of 6:30 on the external terminal as
the popup window. Also, a preset phrase such as "Set this time as
the reservation time?"
[0157] Moreover, on the external terminal 40 may be displayed an
approve button 42 for approving the recommended reservation time
and an inputting button 43 for the user directly inputting the
reservation time together. Accordingly, the disadvantage that the
user has to set the reservation time after it is recommended to the
user may be solved and the user may be provided with autonomy to
deny and directly set the recommended reservation time. The
external terminal 40 may figure out a pattern based on the user's
former reservation setting history and recommend the reservation
time that is expected to be set at the present time based on the
pattern.
[0158] FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment that the user may ignore
the reservation time recommended by the external terminal and set a
new reservation time.
[0159] Referring to FIG. 7 (a), the display panel of the external
terminal 40 may further display an inputting button 43 for the user
directly inputting the reservation time, rather than the approving
button 42 for approving the recommended reservation time.
[0160] Referring to FIG. 7 (b), when the button 43 is input, a
current screen is changed into a menu for setting the reservation
time to allow the user to set the reservation time directly.
[0161] Alternatively, the display 130 may display a recommended
time as shown in FIG. 7 (c). However, the controller 110 may sense
the additional input of the reservation requesting unit 160c and
receive the user's intension to deny the recommended reservation
time as well.
[0162] Accordingly, the user may set the reservation time that is
not limited in the recommended time but the desired reservation
time. Accordingly, the user's autonomy may be guaranteed and even
an error may be corrected.
[0163] FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a method that the
laundry treating apparatus and the online system including the same
confirm the reservation time.
[0164] Referring to FIG. 8 (a), the user may make a first input of
a specific time i to set the reservation time. The controller may
store not only the first-input (i) time but also a range of +I and
-I times with respect to the first-input (i) time.
[0165] The I time may be the time period that is needed in
confirming a next pattern based on the first-input (i) time. In
other words, when an additional reservation time is set in the
range from +I to -I with respect to the first-input time (i), it
may be expected that the I time range with respect to the
first-input time is the reservation time pattern.
[0166] The I time may be set based on a probability distribution
function a. The reason why the probability distribution function is
applied is that a weight may be added in confirming the first-input
(i) time as the pattern, as the next additional inputs are getting
closer to the first-input (i) time. In other words, a weight may be
added to the additional inputs that are closer to the first-input
(i) time, when the pattern is calculated.
[0167] As one example, the probability distribution function (a)
may be as follows:
Gaussian Distribution : f z ( x ) = 1 2 .pi. .sigma. ? .mu. =
##EQU00001## .sigma. = ##EQU00001.2## .mu. : Cycle ##EQU00001.3##
.sigma. : Random value ( e . g . , 1 ) ##EQU00001.4## ? indicates
text missing or illegible when filed ##EQU00001.5##
[0168] `1` may be a value that can be ignored in calculating the
probability, when a value of a function value f(x) is close to
zero. Examples of I may be 30 minutes.
[0169] However, that is one of examples and other functions may be
applied only if they can increase accuracy.
[0170] Referring to FIG. 8 (b), the user may set the reservation
time to be the second-input (ii) time.
[0171] The controller 110 may store not only the second-input (ii)
time but also a range of +I and -I times with respect to the
second-input (ii) time.
[0172] Meanwhile, the controller 110 may not use the second-input
(ii) time as the value for confirming the pattern, if the
second-input (ii) time is over I hour with respect to the
first-input time (i).
[0173] When the second-input (ii) time is over I hour with respect
to the first-input (i) time, the first input and the second input
have nothing to do with the user's pattern.
[0174] When the second-input (ii) time is within I hour from the
first-input (i) time, the second-input (ii) time may be used as an
input value for confirming the user's pattern. That is because the
first-input (i) and the second-input (ii) are fitted to the user's
reservation time setting pattern based on a probability.
[0175] The controller 110 may confirm the user's pattern only based
on the first-input (i) and the second-input (ii).
[0176] However, the accuracy of the user's pattern expected only
based on the first-input (i) and the second input (ii) is likely to
deteriorate. Accordingly, the confirming of the pattern may be
postponed until an additional input is made.
[0177] Referring to FIG. 8 (c), the user may input the reservation
time based on third-input (iii). The controller 110 may store not
only the third-input (iii) time but also a range of +I and -I times
with respect to the third-input (iii) time.
[0178] Meanwhile, the controller 110 may not use the third-input
(iii) time as the value for confirming the pattern, if the
third-input (iii) time is I hour over the first-input time (i) or
the second-input time (ii).
[0179] When the second-input (ii) time is over I hour with respect
to the first-input (i) time or the second-input time (ii), the
third-input (iii) is likely to occur in a unusual situation,
compared with the first input (i) and the second input (ii).
[0180] In contrast, when the first-input (iii) time is I hour
within a range of the first-input (i) or the second-input (ii)
time, the third-input (iii) time is likely to occur in a usual
situation, compared with the user's life pattern. In other words,
it can be said that the third-input (iii) time is fitted to the
user's reservation time setting pattern such that the third-input
(iii) time may be used as an input value for confirming the
pattern.
[0181] Referring to FIG. 8 (d) and , the user may sequentially
input the fourth-input (iv) time and the fifth-input (v) and set
the reservation time.
[0182] The controller 110 may use the input values in confirming
the pattern, when the fourth-input (iv) or the fifth-input (v) are
within I hour with respect to at least one of the former input
times or an average time of the input times. Otherwise, the
controller 110 may not use it in confirming the pattern.
[0183] Referring to FIG. 8 (f), the user may calculate and
confirm/expect the pattern used in confirming the pattern, when the
laundry treating apparatus and the online system sense that
sufficient input values for confirming the pattern.
[0184] Accordingly, the laundry treating apparatus the laundry
treating apparatus and the online system senses that the start
point or end point set as the reservation via the input part 130 is
set at a specific frequency in a specific time range, the user may
typically calculate and confirm the pattern for setting the
reservation time.
[0185] As one example, the controller 110 may create a new
probability distribution function b by calculating a new standard
deviation based on the stored former inputs and the probability
distribution functions a of the inputs. It also may confirm a range
of +II and -II times, which is a range of the new probability
distribution function b, as the user's pattern area. At this time,
a peak value of the new probability distribution function b may be
determined as a first pattern A that will be recommended to the
user and the peak value may be the time that is displayed on the
display 130 as it is. The controller 130 may determine the highest
probability time within the +II and -II time range from the first
pattern A based on the calculated function value as the time that
will be recommended.
[0186] Meanwhile, different form the control method to which the
above-noted probability distribution function is applied, the
laundry treating apparatus and the online system may confirm the
user's pattern, when sensing that an input value with a specific
frequency or more in each of the +I time and -I time. Hence, when
the pattern is confirmed, the user may be recommended a
predetermined time within the +II time and -II time with respect to
the reference time of the pattern as the reservation time.
[0187] In any cases, +II and -II may be understood as an error
range which the user may allow based on the reservation setting
history.
[0188] Meanwhile, different from the above-noted embodiment, the
server 10 may store and process the inputs of the laundry treating
apparatus, and then determine the first pattern A by calculating
the first pattern A.
[0189] FIG. 9 illustrates one embodiment that the laundry treating
apparatus and the online system adds a user's new pattern.
[0190] Referring to FIG. 9 (a), the user may input a several number
of reservation settings at a specific time range and the first
pattern A may be stored in the controller 110 or the server 10.
[0191] However, there may be users having different life patters
from normal users or normal users may have a habit of using the
laundry treating apparatus 1 in a different time range. If the
laundry treating apparatus 1 recommends only a specific time under
the situation, the user might feel uncomfortable.
[0192] Accordingly, the laundry treating apparatus and the online
system may determine whether to confirm an additional pattern or
whether to change the confirmed first pattern A.
[0193] As shown in FIG. 9 (a), the sixth-input (vi) is input and it
is within the first pattern A area such that the controller 110 may
not additionally confirm the six-input (vi) time as the pattern nor
use it as an input value for changing the pattern. That is because
the sixth-input (vi) is already in the first pattern A and helpless
in confirming the additional pattern or changing the existing
pattern such that no unnecessary calculation may be repeated.
[0194] However, when the seventh-input (vii) time is input as the
reservation time, the controller may store not only the
seventh-input (vii) time but also a range of +I and -I times with
respect to the seventh-input (vii) time.
[0195] The I time may be the time needed to confirm the next
pattern with respect to the seventh-input (vii) time. when the
additional reservation time is set within the +I and [0196] I time
range with respect to the seventh-input time, the I time range with
respect to the seventh-input (vii) time may be expected to be the
user's additional pattern.
[0197] In other words, when a reservation time setting input over
the existing first pattern A range is sensed, the controller 110
may store the input time and the time range like the method of
forming the existing pattern A.
[0198] Accordingly, an eighth-input (viii) is within the first
pattern A and the controller 110 may not use the eighth-input in
forming an additional pattern. However, the controller 110 may
store times from a ninth-input (ix) to a twelfth-input (xii) and a
time range.
[0199] Referring to FIG. 9 (b), the controller may confirm a second
pattern B as additional reservation pattern like the method of
forming the first pattern A, once collecting input values within a
specific time range at a specific frequency.
[0200] When the reservation requesting unit 160c is input or an
application is driven in the external terminal 40, the controller
110 or the server 10 may recommend the respective reservation times
based on the first pattern A and the second pattern B via the
display 130 or the display panel. Accordingly, the user may select
a desired reservation time that matches his or her intention out of
the recommended reservation times.
[0201] When a reservation time at a specific frequency or more is
set in a different time range rather than the first pattern A and
the second pattern B, the laundry treating apparatus 1 may confirm
an additional pattern. In addition, unless the reservation time at
a specific frequency or more is set in the existing pattern, the
reservation time may be deleted not to be recommended to the user
any more in the next reservation time setting.
[0202] FIG. 10 illustrating one embodiment of a control method that
the laundry treating apparatus 1 and the online system recommends a
reservation time to the user.
[0203] First of all, the laundry treating apparatus 1 or the
external terminal 40 may perform a reservation button inputting
step s1 for receiving an input of a command configured to set a
reservation time. The reservation button inputting step s1 may be a
step for receiving a command of implementing a reservation
requesting program from an application of the external terminal
40.
[0204] The controller 110 or the server may perform a pattern
presence identifying step s2 for sensing presence of a pattern
confirmed by the user, when the controller 110 or the server 10
senses an input of a command for setting the reservation time. The
pattern presence identifying step s2 may be a step for checking
presence of a pattern, that is formed based on the user's
reservation setting history, in a memory device linked to the
controller 110 or the server 10.
[0205] The controller 110 or the server 10 may perform a pattern
confirming step s3 for confirming the pattern of the reservation
time if there is no existing confirmed pattern in the controller
110 or the server 10. When there is the existing confirmed pattern,
the controller 110 or the server 10 may recommend a reservation
time and check whether to change the pattern.
[0206] The pattern confirming step s3 may include a reservation
time final inputting step s3-1 for receiving an input of the user's
desired reservation time setting via the input part 130 or the
display panel of the externa terminal 40 directly.
[0207] One the reservation time is finally confirmed in the
reservation time final inputting step s3-1, a reservation time
setting step s5 may be implemented. In this process, the controller
110 or the server 10 may perform a frequency checking step s3-2 for
checking whether the minimum cumulative frequencies is achieved so
as to confirm the pattern based on the input of the reservation
time. Unless the cumulative frequency is achieved in the frequency
checking step s3-2, the reservation time setting step s5 may be
performed.
[0208] In contrast, when the inputs of the reservation time
achieves the cumulative frequency in the final inputting step s3-1,
a setting range satisfying step s3-3 for checking whether the time
is within the existing inputs setting range may be performed. At
this time, the input of the reservation time is over a preset range
in the final inputting step s3-1, the input has nothing to do with
the user's habit or life pattern and the reservation time setting
step s5 may be performed. however, when the inputs of the
reservation time is within the time setting range in the final
inputting step s3-1, the pattern confirming step s3-4 for
confirming the user's reservation time setting pattern may be
performed.
[0209] Meanwhile, when the user's reservation setting pattern is
checked in the pattern confirming step s3-4, the reservation time
recommending step may be performed. The reservation time
recommending step s4 may perform a display recommending step s4-1
for displaying the reservation time on the external terminal 40
based on the confirmed pattern.
[0210] Hence, the approving step s4-2 for asking the user whether
to set the recommended time on the external terminal 40 as the
reservation time may be performed. The approving step s4-2 may
sense the input of the manipulation part 170 and it may be
corresponding to the input of the approve button on the external
terminal 40.
[0211] Meanwhile, when the input of the manipulation part 170 or
the input of the approve button is sensed in the reservation time
setting step s5, the reservation time setting step s5 may be
performed.
[0212] However, when the reservation requesting unit 160c is
additionally input or an input of a re-input button is sensed in
the approving step s4-2 to input a new reservation time setting, an
existing pattern corresponding determination step s4-4 for
determining whether the input is in a different range from the
pattern A may be performed. When the input is corresponding to the
existing pattern, only the performance of the reservation time
setting step s5 may be sufficient.
[0213] However, unless the input is corresponding to the existing
pattern, it means that the input is different from the existing
pattern A and it may be then necessary to check whether a new
pattern B will be created or the existing pattern A will be
deleted. Accordingly, the controller 110 or the server 10 may
perform a determining step s4-5 for determining whether the
reservation time input out of the existing pattern A achieves a
cumulative frequency that is needed to confirm the reservation.
[0214] Unless the input achieves the cumulative frequency needed to
confirm the pattern in the determining step S4-5, the reservation
time setting step S5 may be performed while the input and the time
range (+I and -I) are stored. However, if the input achieves the
cumulative frequency, a range satisfying step S4-6 for determining
whether the input is in the setting range based on the result of
comparison between the input with the existing inputs.
[0215] If this input is out of the range for confirming the new
pattern that will be set in the range satisfying step S4-6, this
input may be a random one which will not be used in the pattern
confirming and the reservation setting step S5 may be performed.
However, if the input satisfies even the setting range, a pattern
addition confirming step S4-7 for additionally confirming a new
pattern B may be performed. Accordingly, the reservation time
setting step S5 may be performed based on the new input time. When
the reservation button inputting step S1 is performed, a
reservation time based on the two patterns A and B may be
recommended in the recommending step S4-1.
[0216] When the server 10 performs such the series of the
processes, the communication module 60 may transmit diverse
information to the server 10 and the information may be induced to
be used as the input value for allowing the server 10 to confirm
the pattern.
[0217] In other words, the controller 110 may transceive the start
or end point of the wash cycle or dry cycle to the server or the
external terminal via the communication module and used in
confirming the user's reservation setting pattern, once the
operation start or end point is set or the wash cycle or dry cycle
is completed at the time at which the operation start or end point
is set.
[0218] Accordingly, once the pattern confirming step S3 or the
reservation recommending step S4 is performed by the controller 110
or the server 10, the start or end point of the dry or wash cycle
may be confirmed and the reservation time setting step S5 for
finally reserving the random course or option may be performed.
[0219] As the present features may be embodied in several forms
without departing from the characteristics thereof, it should also
be understood that the above-described embodiments are not limited
by any of the details of the foregoing description, unless
otherwise specified, but rather should be considered broadly within
its scope as defined in the appended claims. Therefore all changes
and modifications that fall within the metes and bounds of the
claims, or equivalents of such metes and bounds, are therefore
intended to be embraced by the appended claims.
* * * * *