WO2024111912A1 - Washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

This washing machine comprises a housing, a drum provided to be rotatable in the housing, and a lifter extending from the inner circumference of the drum toward the rotary shaft of the drum. The lifter comprises a lifter body attached to the drum, a lifter case which can be detachably attached to the lifter body and comprises an inlet portion and a discharge portion, a filter provided in the lifter case, and a lifter valve which is formed of an elastic body so as to open/close the inlet portion.

Description

washing machine

The present disclosure relates to a washing machine with a filter.

A washing machine is a device that uses the driving force of a drive motor to agitate laundry, water, and detergent put into the tub together, thereby allowing washing to occur through mutual friction.

Regardless of the type of washing machine, the processes performed by the washing machine include a washing process in which detergent and water are supplied to the tub containing the laundry and the laundry is washed by rotating the drum, and a rinsing process in which water is supplied to the tub and the drum is rotated to rinse the laundry. It may include an operation and a spin-drying operation in which water is discharged from the tub and the drum is rotated to remove moisture from the laundry.

The washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water in the tub to the outside of the washing machine when performing a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, and/or a dehydration cycle. The drain device may be configured to discharge water discharged from the tub back into the tub when performing a washing process and/or a rinsing process.

The washing machine may include a filter to filter out foreign substances from the water used to wash laundry.

One aspect of the present disclosure provides a washing machine that facilitates filter management.

One aspect of the present disclosure provides a washing machine capable of increasing the filter replacement cycle.

One aspect of the present disclosure provides a washing machine capable of increasing filter efficiency.

The technical problem to be achieved in this document is not limited to the technical problem mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. There will be.

A washing machine according to the spirit of the present disclosure includes a housing, a drum rotatably provided inside the housing, and a lifter extending from the inner peripheral surface of the drum toward the rotation axis of the drum. The lifter includes a lifter body mounted on the drum, a lifter case that can be detachably mounted on the lifter body, a lifter case having an inlet and an outlet, a filter provided in the lifter case, and an elastic body to open and close the inlet. Includes a lifter valve.

A washing machine according to the spirit of the present disclosure has a housing. A tub provided inside the housing. It includes a drum rotatably provided inside the tub, and a lifter extending from the inner peripheral surface of the drum toward the rotation axis of the drum. The lifter includes a lifter body mounted on the drum, a lifter case detachably mounted on the lifter body, a lifter case having an inlet and an outlet, a filter provided in a portion of the lifter case where the outlet is located, and It is a lifter valve provided with an elastic body, and includes a lifter valve provided to open and close the inlet portion to allow foreign substances to flow into the interior of the lifter case, but to prevent foreign substances from being discharged from the lifter case.

1 shows a washing machine according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows a cross section of the washing machine shown in FIG. 1.

Figure 3 shows the lifter shown in Figure 2;

FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of a portion of the lifter shown in FIG. 3.

Figure 5 shows a cross section along line A-A' indicated in Figure 3.

Figure 6 shows an enlarged view of the lifter valve shown in Figure 5.

FIG. 7 shows a state in which one end of the lifter case shown in FIG. 4 is coupled to the lifter body.

FIG. 8 shows a state in which the other end of the lifter case shown in FIG. 7 is fixed to the lifter body.

Figure 9 shows the interior of the drum shown in Figure 2 in cross section while it is rotating.

Figure 10 shows the flow of washing water flowing into the lifter by enlarging part C shown in Figure 9.

FIG. 11 enlarges part C shown in FIG. 9 to show the state of foreign matter inside the lifter according to the rotation of the drum.

Figure 12 is an exploded view of a partial configuration of a lifter according to an embodiment.

Figure 13 shows a cross-section of the lifter shown in Figure 12.

Figure 14 shows a cross-section of a lifter according to one embodiment.

Figure 15 shows a cross-section of a lifter according to one embodiment.

Figure 16 shows a lifter according to one embodiment.

Figure 17 shows a cross section of a drum of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

Figure 18 briefly shows components of a washing machine and signal flow between components, according to one embodiment.

Figure 19 shows a flowchart of a washing machine control method according to an embodiment.

Figure 20 shows an example of filter status information being output to a washing machine according to an embodiment.

21 shows a washing machine according to one embodiment.

FIG. 22 shows a cross section of the washing machine shown in FIG. 21.

Figure 23 shows a cross section of the drum shown in Figure 22.

The various embodiments of this document and the terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various changes, equivalents, or replacements of the embodiments.

In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numbers may be used for similar or related components.

The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

As used herein, “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “A Each of phrases such as “at least one of , B, or C” may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or any possible combination thereof.

The term “and/or” includes any element of a plurality of related described elements or a combination of a plurality of related described elements.

Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one element from another, and may be used to distinguish such elements in other respects, such as importance or order) is not limited.

One (e.g. first) component is said to be "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g. second) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively". Where mentioned, it means that any of the components can be connected to the other components directly (e.g. wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

Terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to designate the existence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this document, but do not include one or more other features, numbers, or steps. , does not exclude in advance the possibility of the existence or addition of operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact” with another component, this means not only when the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also when a third component This includes cases where it is indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or contacted through.

When a component is said to be located “on” another component, this includes not only cases where a component is in contact with another component, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

Washing machines according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, draining, and dewatering operations. The washing machine may be a dryer-type washing machine capable of performing a drying cycle on laundry that has completed dehydration. A washing machine may be an example of a clothing processing device. Clothing processing equipment is a concept that includes devices that wash clothes (objects to be washed, objects to be dried), devices that dry clothes, and devices that can both wash and dry clothes.

Washing machines according to various embodiments include a top-loading washing machine in which the inlet for putting in or taking out laundry faces upward, or a front-loading machine in which the inlet for putting in or taking out laundry faces forward. Front-loading) may include a washing machine. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines with loading methods other than top loading washing machines and front loading washing machines.

In the case of a top loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and fall the laundry. In the case of a front loading washing machine, it may include a lift to raise the laundry. A front-loading washing machine may include a dryer/drying machine capable of drying laundry stored inside a drum. A dryer/washer may include a heating device for hot air. The dryer combined washing machine may further include a condensing device for dry air. As an example, a dryer/washing machine may include a heat pump. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine using a washing method other than the above-described washing method.

Hereinafter, a washing machine according to various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

1 shows a washing machine according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 shows a cross section of the washing machine shown in FIG. 1.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the washing machine 1 may include a washing machine housing 11 that accommodates various components therein. The washing machine housing 11 may form the exterior of the washing machine 1. The washing machine housing 11 may have a box shape with one portion open.

The washing machine housing 11 may include a housing opening 12 formed to provide access to the interior of the drum 30 . The housing opening 12 may open approximately forward.

The washing machine 1 may include a door 13 for opening and closing the housing opening 12 provided in the washing machine housing 11. The door 13 can be rotatably mounted on the washing machine housing 11 by a hinge 14. At least a portion of the door 13 may be transparent or translucent so that the inside of the washing machine housing 11 is visible.

The washing machine 1 may include a tub 20 provided inside the washing machine housing 11 to store water. The tub 20 may be placed inside the washing machine housing 11. The tub 20 may include a tub opening 22 provided to correspond to the housing opening 12. The tub opening 22 may be open approximately forward. The tub 20 may be supported inside the washing machine housing 11. The tub 20 may have a substantially cylindrical shape with one side open.

The tub 20 may be elastically supported from the washing machine housing 11 by the damper 80. The damper 80 can connect the washing machine housing 11 and the tub 20. The damper 80 absorbs vibration energy between the tub 20 and the washing machine housing 11 when the vibration generated when the drum 30 rotates is transmitted to the tub 20 and/or the washing machine housing 11. It may be arranged to dampen vibration.

The washing machine 1 may include a drum 30 provided to accommodate laundry. The drum 30 may be rotatably provided inside the tub 20 . The drum 30 may perform washing, rinsing, and/or dehydration while rotating inside the tub 20. The drum 30 may include a through hole 34 connecting the inner space of the drum 30 and the inner space of the tub 20. The drum 30 may have a substantially cylindrical shape with one side open. At least one lifter 100 may be installed on the inner peripheral surface of the drum 30 to allow laundry to rise and fall when the drum 30 rotates.

The drum 30 may include a drum opening 32 provided to correspond to the housing opening 12 and the tub opening 22. Laundry may be put into or taken out of the drum 30 through the housing opening 12, the tub opening 22, and the drum opening 32.

The washing machine 1 may include a driving device 40 configured to rotate the drum 30. The driving device 40 may include a driving motor 41 and a rotating shaft 42 for transmitting the driving force generated by the driving motor 41 to the drum 30. The rotating shaft 42 may pass through the tub 20 and be connected to the drum 30.

The washing machine 1 is a direct drive type in which the rotation shaft 42 is directly connected to the drive motor 41 to rotate the drum 30, and a pulley 43 is connected between the drive motor 41 and the rotation shaft 42. Thus, it can be classified into an indirect drive type that drives the drum 30.

The washing machine 1 according to one embodiment may be provided as an indirect drive type, but is not limited thereto and may also be provided as a direct drive type.

One end of the rotating shaft 42 may be connected to the drum 30, and the other end may be connected to the pulley 43 to receive power from the drive motor 41. A motor pulley 41a may be formed on the rotation axis of the drive motor 41. A driving belt 44 is provided between the motor pulley 41a and the pulley 43, so that the rotating shaft 42 can be driven by the driving belt 44.

A bearing housing 45 may be installed on a portion of the rear portion of the tub 20 to rotatably support the rotating shaft 42. The bearing housing 45 may be made of aluminum alloy and may be inserted into a portion of the rear of the tub 20 when the tub 20 is injection molded.

The driving device 40 may be provided to rotate the drum 30 forward or backward to perform washing, rinsing, and/or dehydration, or drying operations.

The washing machine 1 may include a water supply device 50. The water supply device 50 can supply water to the tub 20. The water supply device 50 may be located above the tub 20. The water supply device 50 may include a water supply pipe 51 and a water supply valve 56 provided in the water supply pipe 51. The water supply pipe 51 may be connected to an external water supply source. The water supply pipe 51 may extend from an external water supply source to the detergent supply device 60 and/or the tub 20. Water may be supplied to the tub 20 through the detergent supply device 60. Water can be supplied to the tub 20 without going through the detergent supply device 60.

The water supply valve 56 may open or close the water supply pipe 51 in response to an electrical signal from the control unit 90 (see FIG. 19). The water supply valve 56 may allow or block the supply of water from an external water supply source to the tub 20. The water supply valve 56 may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

The washing machine 1 may include a detergent supply device 60 configured to supply detergent to the tub 20. The detergent supply device 60 may be configured to supply detergent into the tub 20 during the water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe 51 may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device 60. Water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the interior of the tub 20. Detergents may include not only laundry detergents but also dryer rinses, deodorants, disinfectants, or air fresheners. The detergent supply device 60 may be connected to the tub 20 through a connector 61.

The washing machine 1 may include a drainage device 70. The drainage device 70 may be configured to discharge water contained in the tub 20 to the outside. The drain device 70 includes a drain pump 73 for discharging the water in the tub 20 to the outside of the washing machine housing 11, and a tub for allowing water inside the tub 20 to flow into the drain pump 73. It may include a connecting hose 71 connecting (20) and the drain pump 73, and a drain hose 74 guiding the water pumped by the drain pump 73 to the outside of the washing machine housing 11. . The drainage device 70 may include a drain valve 72 provided on the connection hose 71 to open and close the connection hose 71.

The washing machine 1 may provide a user interface device 15 for interacting between a user and the washing machine 1 .

The washing machine 1 may include at least one user interface device 15. The user interface device 15 may include at least one input interface 16 and at least one output interface 17.

At least one input interface 16 may convert sensory information received from the user into an electrical signal.

At least one input interface 16 may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash/rinse/spin setting button. At least one input interface 16 may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and/or a microphone, etc. may include.

At least one output interface 17 may transmit various data related to the operation of the washing machine 1 to the user by generating sensory information.

For example, at least one output interface 17 may convey information related to the washing course, operation time of the washing machine 1, and wash settings/rinse settings/spin settings to the user. Information about the operation of the washing machine 1 may be output through a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface 17 may include, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

Figure 3 shows the lifter shown in Figure 2; FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of a portion of the lifter shown in FIG. 3. Figure 5 shows a cross section along line A-A' indicated in Figure 3. Figure 6 shows an enlarged view of the lifter valve shown in Figure 5.

2 to 4, the lifter 100 may extend from the inner peripheral surface of the drum 30 toward the rotation axis of the drum 30. The lifter 100 may protrude from the inner peripheral surface of the drum 30. The lifter 100 may extend in a direction substantially parallel to the rotation axis direction of the drum 30. The lifter 100 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the drum 30.

3 to 5, the lifter 100 may include a lifter body 111 mounted on the drum 30. The lifter body 111 may be mounted on the inner peripheral surface of the drum 30. It may extend in a direction approximately parallel to the direction of the rotation axis of the drum 30. As an example, the lifter body 111 may be fixed to the drum 30 using a hook method. As an example, the lifter body 111 may be fixed to the drum 30 with a screw. The lifter body 111 may support the lifter case 131.

The lifter 100 may include a lifter case 131 mounted on the lifter body 111. The lifter case 131 may be detachably mounted on the lifter body 111. The lifter case 131 is provided so that the user can easily separate it from the lifter body 111.

The lifter case 131 may include a first lifter case 131a and a second lifter case 131b mounted on the first lifter case 131b. An inlet 132 and an outlet 133 may be formed in the first lifter case 131a. The second lifter case 131b may be arranged to face the lifter body 111. The second lifter case 131b may be provided with a supporter 136 to support the lifter valve 140.

For example, the first lifter case 131a and the second lifter case 131b may be formed as one piece.

The lifter case 131 may include an inlet 132 and an outlet 133. The lifter case 131 may communicate with the internal space of the drum 30 through the inlet 132 and the outlet 133.

Washing water and/or foreign matter inside the drum 30 may flow into the lifter case 131 through the inlet 132. The inlet 132 may be formed to allow foreign substances of a certain size or less and washing water to flow into the lifter case 131. The inlet 132 may be formed to allow microplastics with a size of approximately 5 mm or less to pass through. The inlet 132 may have at least one hole.

The inlet 132 may be provided so that foreign substances larger than a certain size cannot pass through. Relatively large-sized foreign substances may be prepared to be separately collected from the drum 30. By limiting the size of foreign substances flowing into the lifter 100, the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment can improve the efficiency of the filter 120.

The inlet 132 may be formed on at least one side of the lifter case 131. The inlet 132 may be formed on at least one side of the lifter case 131 facing the circumferential direction of the drum 30. The inlet 132 may be provided to face the rotation direction of the drum 30. The inlet 132 may be formed on the side of the lifter case 131.

The inlet 132 includes a first inlet 132a that faces the first rotation direction of the drum 30, and a second inlet 132b that faces a second rotation direction opposite to the first direction of the drum 30. may include. While the drum 30 rotates in the first rotation direction, washing water and/or foreign substances may flow in through the first inlet 132a. While the drum 30 rotates in the second rotation direction, washing water and/or foreign substances may flow in through the second inlet 132b. The first inlet 132a and the second inlet 132b may be provided to face opposite directions.

For example, one of the first inlet 132a and the second inlet 132b may be omitted.

Washing water and/or foreign substances inside the lifter case 131 may be discharged into the drum 30 through the discharge unit 133. The discharge part 133 may have at least one hole with a larger size than the inlet part 132.

The discharge portion 133 may be formed on at least one side of the lifter case 131. The discharge portion 133 may be formed on at least one surface of the lifter case 131 facing the rotation axis of the drum 30. The discharge unit 133 may be provided to face the inside of the drum 30.

The lifter 100 may include a filter 120 provided in the lifter case 131. The filter 120 may be provided in a portion of the lifter case 131 where the discharge portion 133 is located. The filter 120 may be provided to correspond to the discharge portion 133 of the lifter case 131. Filter 120 may extend along discharge portion 133.

The filter 120 may be provided to filter foreign substances discharged from the discharge unit 133. The filter 120 may be provided to filter microplastics of approximately 5 mm or less in size.

The lifter case 131 may include a chamber 139 for collecting foreign substances filtered by the filter 120. The chamber 139 may be formed inside the lifter case 131. If the amount of foreign matter collected in the chamber 139 exceeds the preset amount, the user separates the lifter case 131 from the lifter body 111 and discards it, and installs a new lifter case 131 into the lifter body 111. It can be installed on.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6 , the lifter 100 may include a lifter valve 140 that opens and closes the inlet 132 . The lifter valve 140 may be made of an elastic body. The lifter valve 140 can be deformed by the force applied by the washing water and/or foreign substances while the drum 30 rotates and the washing water and/or foreign substances in the drum 30 flow through the inlet 132. It can be arranged to do so. The lifter valve 140 is deformed by the water flow inside the drum 30 and can open and close the inlet 132.

The lifter valve 140 can open and close the inlet portion 132 to allow foreign substances to flow into the chamber 139, but to prevent foreign substances from being discharged from the chamber. The lifter valve 140 may open the inlet 132 in the direction in which washing water and/or foreign matter flows in through the inlet 132. The lifter valve 140 may prevent the inlet 132 from opening in the direction in which washing water and/or foreign substances are discharged through the inlet 132. The lifter valve 140 may be provided as a check valve.

The lifter valve 140 may include a fixed part 141 fixed to the lifter case 131 and a moving part 142 whose thickness becomes thinner as it moves away from the fixed part 141. The lifter valve 140 can open and close the inlet part 132 as the moving part 142 moves while the fixed part 141 is fixed to the lifter case 131.

As an example, the fixing part 141 may be fixed to the second lifter case 131b. The fixing part 141 may be supported by the second lifter case 131b.

The moving part 142 may be provided to correspond to the inlet part 132. The moving part 142 may be provided to open and close the inlet part 132. The moving part 142 may have a shape whose thickness becomes thinner as it moves away from the fixed part 141. The moving part 142 may be formed such that the thickness d1 of one end close to the fixing part 141 is greater than the thickness d2 of the other end farthest from the fixing part 141. For example, the moving part 142 may have a shape whose thickness gradually becomes thinner as it moves away from the fixed part 141. As an example, the moving part 142 may have a shape whose thickness gradually becomes thinner as it moves away from the fixed part 141. The moving part 142 may be provided with a thinner thickness than the fixed part 141. According to this configuration, the elastic mobility of the moving part 142 of the lifter valve 140 with respect to the fixed part 141 can be improved.

The lifter valve 140 may be provided to correspond to the inlet 132. The lifter valve 140 may include a first lifter valve 140a provided to open and close the first inlet 132a, and a second lifter valve 140b provided to open and close the second inlet 132b. there is. The first lifter valve 140a may be provided to move in the opposite direction to the second lifter valve 140b.

FIG. 7 shows a state in which one end of the lifter case shown in FIG. 4 is coupled to the lifter body. FIG. 8 shows a state in which the other end of the lifter case shown in FIG. 7 is fixed to the lifter body.

With reference to FIGS. 4, 7, and 8, the process of mounting the lifter case 131 to the lifter body 111 will be described.

Referring to FIG. 4, the lifter body 111 may be mounted on the drum 30. The lifter body 111 may include a lifter fixing part 115, and the drum 30 may include a lifter mounting part 35 to which the lifter fixing part 115 of the lifter body 111 is fixed. As the lifter fixing part 115 of the lifter body 111 is mounted on the lifter mounting part 35 of the drum 30, the lifter body 111 can be fixed to the drum 30. As an example, the lifter body 111 may be fixed to the drum 30 through a screw.

Referring to FIG. 7, the lifter case 131 may include a rotational coupling portion 137 provided at one end and a fixed coupling portion 138 provided at the opposite end. The lifter body 111 may include a body coupling part 116 to which the rotary coupling part 137 is coupled, and a body fixing part 117 to which the fixed coupling part 138 is fixed.

In a state in which the lifter case 131 is aligned in an inclined direction with respect to the lifter body 111, the rotational coupling portion 137 of the lifter case 131 is rotatable to the body coupling portion 116 of the lifter body 111. can be combined.

Referring to FIG. 8, in a state in which the rotational coupling portion 137 of the lifter case 131 is rotatably coupled to the body coupling portion 116 of the lifter body 111, the lifter case 131 is connected to the lifter body 111. ), the fixed coupling part 138 of the lifter case 131 may be fixed to the body fixing part 117 of the lifter body 111. The fixed coupler 138 of the lifter case 131 may be fixed to the body fixer 117 of the lifter body 111 using a hook method.

The method of mounting the lifter 100 on the drum 30 of the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment may be limited by the length along the rotation axis direction.

In the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment, the lifter case 131 moves in an inclined direction with respect to the lifter body 111 and is coupled thereto, and then the lifter case 131 rotates and is fixed with respect to the lifter body 111. According to the configuration, the lifter case 131 can be easily mounted and/or separated from the lifter body 111.

Figure 9 shows the interior of the drum shown in Figure 2 in cross section while it is rotating. Figure 10 shows the flow of washing water flowing into the lifter by enlarging part C shown in Figure 9. FIG. 11 enlarges part C shown in FIG. 9 to show the state of foreign matter inside the lifter according to the rotation of the drum.

Referring to FIG. 9 , the washing machine 1 may include a plurality of lifters 100. The plurality of lifters 100 may be arranged to be spaced apart at approximately equal intervals along the inner peripheral surface of the drum 30. For example, three lifters 100 may be arranged at approximately 120° intervals along the inner peripheral surface of the drum 30. The lifter 100 can lift the laundry (L) as the drum 30 rotates.

9 and 10, while the drum 30 rotates in the first rotation direction R1, the wash water and/or foreign substances in the drum 30 enter the lifter 100 through the first inlet 132a. ) may flow into the interior. As the drum 30 rotates in the first rotation direction R1, the washing water and/or foreign substances in the drum 30 pass through the first inlet 132a and the moving part 142 of the first lifter valve 140a. ) can apply force. The first lifter valve 140a, which receives force from the washing water and/or foreign substances in the drum 30, has its fixed part 141 fixed to the lifter case 131, and its moving part 142 is elastically deformed. The first inlet 132a is opened.

While the drum 30 rotates, foreign substances introduced into the lifter case 131 may be filtered by the filter 120. While the drum 30 rotates, the washing water flowing into the lifter case 131 passes through the filter 120 and may be discharged to the drum 30 through the discharge portion 133.

While the drum 30 rotates in the first rotation direction R1, the second lifter valve 140b may close the second inlet 132b. While the drum 30 rotates in the first rotation direction (R1), the direction of force that the wash water and/or foreign substances in the drum 30 can apply to the second lifter valve (140b) is in the first rotation direction (R1). ), the second lifter valve 140b can close the second inlet 132b. As the second lifter valve 140b closes the second inlet 132b, the washing water and/or foreign substances flowing into the lifter 100 are not filtered through the filter 120 and are not filtered through the second inlet 132b. Discharge to the drum 30 can be prevented through 132b).

While the drum 30 rotates in a direction opposite to the first rotation direction R1, the second lifter valve 140b may open the second inlet 132b. While the drum 30 rotates in a direction opposite to the first rotation direction R1, washing water and/or foreign matter in the drum 30 flows in through the second inlet 132b and the second lifter valve 140b. Force can be applied in the direction of opening. While the drum 30 rotates in a direction opposite to the first rotation direction R1, the first lifter valve 140a may close the first inlet 132a.

Referring to FIG. 11 , foreign matter collected in the chamber 139 of the lifter 100 may move outward in the radial direction of the drum 30 due to centrifugal force as the drum 30 rotates. Due to the centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the drum 30, foreign substances filtered by the filter 120 may be separated from the filter 120 and move toward the second lifter case 131b. According to this configuration, the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment can increase the replacement cycle of the filter 120.

Figure 12 is an exploded view of a partial configuration of a lifter according to an embodiment. Figure 13 shows a cross-section of the lifter shown in Figure 12.

With reference to FIGS. 12 and 13 , a lifter 200 according to an embodiment will be described. In describing the lifter 200 shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the same member numbers are assigned to the same components as those of the lifter 100 shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13 , the lifter 200 may include a lifter body 211 . The lifter body 211 may include a body coupling portion 116 and a body fixing portion 117.

Unlike the lifter body 111 shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the lifter body 211 shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 may include a body opening 212. The body opening 212 may be provided to face the lifter case 231.

The lifter 200 may include a lifter case 231 that is detachably mounted on the lifter body 211. The lifter case 231 may include a first lifter case 231a and a second lifter case 231b. The lifter case 231 may include an inlet 132. The inlet 132 may include a first inlet 132a and a second inlet 132b. The lifter case 231 may include a chamber 139 for collecting foreign substances.

Unlike the lifter case 131 shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the lifter case 231 shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 has a discharge portion including a first discharge portion 233a and a second discharge portion 233b. It may include (233).

The first discharge portion 233a may be formed on one side of the lifter case 231 facing the rotation axis of the drum 30. The second discharge portion 233b may be formed on a side facing one side of the lifter case 231 on which the first discharge portion 233a is formed. The second discharge part 233b may be located on a radial outer side of the drum 30 than the first discharge part 233a. The second discharge portion 233b may be formed in the second lifter case 231b. The second discharge portion 233b may be provided to correspond to the body opening 212 of the lifter body 211.

Unlike the lifter 100 shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the lifter 200 shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 includes a filter 220 including a first filter 220a and a second filter 220b. can do.

The first filter 220a may be provided to correspond to the first discharge portion 233a. The second filter 220b may be provided to correspond to the second discharge portion 233b. The first filter 220a can filter foreign substances from washing water discharged through the first discharge unit 233a. The second filter 200b can filter foreign substances from the washing water discharged through the second discharge unit 233b. At least one of the first filter 220a and the second filter 200b may be provided to filter microplastics having a size of approximately 5 mm or less.

The drum 30 according to one embodiment may include a drum outlet 38. The drum outlet 38 may be provided to correspond to the body opening 212.

According to one embodiment, some of the washing water inside the lifter 200 may be discharged from the lifter 200 into the drum 30 through the first discharge part 233a. Another part of the wash water inside the lifter 200 may be discharged from the lifter 200 through the second discharge portion 233b. Washing water discharged through the second discharge portion 233b may sequentially pass through the body opening 212 and the drum discharge port 38 and be discharged into the tub 20.

According to this configuration, the lifter 200 according to one embodiment can improve the fluidity of the washing water inside the tub 20.

Figure 14 shows a cross-section of a lifter according to one embodiment.

With reference to FIG. 14 , a lifter 300 according to an embodiment will be described. In describing the lifter 300 shown in FIG. 14, the same member numbers may be assigned to components that are the same as those of the lifter 100 shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 14, unlike the lifter 100 shown in FIG. 5, the lifter 300 may include a valve support member 350. One end of the valve support member 350 may be fixed to the first lifter valve 140a, and the opposite end of the valve support member 350 may be fixed to the second lifter valve 140b.

The valve support member 350 may apply elastic force to the first lifter valve 140a and/or the second lifter valve 140b in a direction in which the first lifter valve 140a moves away from the second lifter valve 140b. The valve support member 350 may be made of an elastic body. The valve support member 350 may be provided as a spring. The valve support member 350 may apply force in a direction in which the first lifter valve 140a closes the first inlet 132a. The valve support member 350 may apply force in a direction in which the second lifter valve 140b closes the second inlet 132b.

The lifter 300 according to one embodiment includes a valve support member 350 that supports the lifter valve 140 in the direction in which the lifter valve 140 closes the inlet 132, so that a force greater than a preset amount is applied. Since the lifter valve 140 can open the inlet 132 only when pressure is applied, foreign substances inside the lifter 300 can be prevented from being discharged from the lifter 300 through the inlet 132. .

Figure 15 shows a cross-section of a lifter according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 15, a lifter 400 according to an embodiment will be described. In describing the lifter 400 shown in FIG. 15, components that are the same as those of the lifter 100 shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 may be assigned the same reference numerals and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 15, unlike the lifter 100 shown in FIG. 5, the lifter 400 may include a valve support member 450. One end of the valve support member 450 may be fixed to the first lifter valve 140a, and the opposite end of the valve support member 450 may be fixed to the second lifter valve 140b.

The valve support member 450 may apply elastic force to the first lifter valve 140a and/or the second lifter valve 140b in a direction in which the first lifter valve 140a moves away from the second lifter valve 140b. The valve support member 450 may be made of an elastic body. The valve support member 450 may be provided as a leaf spring. The valve support member 450 may apply force in a direction in which the first lifter valve 140a closes the first inlet 132a. The valve support member 350 may apply force in a direction in which the second lifter valve 140b closes the second inlet 132b.

The lifter 400 according to one embodiment includes a valve support member 450 that supports the lifter valve 140 in the direction in which the lifter valve 140 closes the inlet 132, so that a force greater than a preset amount is applied. Since the lifter valve 140 can open the inlet 132 only when pressure is applied, foreign substances inside the lifter 400 can be prevented from being discharged from the lifter 400 through the inlet 132. .

Figure 16 shows a lifter according to one embodiment.

With reference to FIG. 16, a lifter 500 according to an embodiment will be described. In describing the lifter 500 shown in FIG. 16, the same components as the lifter 100 shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 are assigned the same reference numerals and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 16, the lifter 500 may include a lifter body 111 and a lifter case 531 that is detachably mounted on the lifter body 111. Unlike the lifter 100 shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the lifter case 531 of the lifter 500 shown in FIG. 16 has a transparent or translucent window 534 so that the inside of the lifter case 531 can be seen. window) may be included.

The window 534 of the lifter case 531 may be provided so that foreign substances collected in the chamber 139 inside the lifter case 531 can be checked from the outside of the lifter 500. The window 534 of the lifter case 531 may be provided on one side of the drum 30 facing the drum opening 32. Accordingly, the user can check the window 534 of the lifter case 531 through the drum opening 32.

According to this configuration, the lifter 500 according to one embodiment can easily check the replacement time of the lifter case 531.

Figure 17 shows a cross section of a drum of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

With reference to FIG. 17, a washing machine 2 according to an embodiment will be described. In describing the washing machine 2 shown in Figure 17, the same components as the washing machine 1 shown in Figures 1 to 11 are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 17 , the washing machine 2 according to one embodiment may include a lifter 100 having the same configuration as the lifter 100 of the washing machine 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 11 . Unlike the washing machine 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 11, the washing machine 2 shown in FIG. 17 may include a lifter 100a that does not include a filter 120. For example, the washing machine 2 according to one embodiment may include one lifter 100 including a filter 120 and two lifters 100a not including a filter 120. For example, a washing machine according to an embodiment may include two lifters 100 including a filter 120 and one lifter 100a not including a filter 120.

In the washing machine 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 11, three lifters 100 including a filter 120 are arranged at the same angle to each other about the rotation axis of the drum 30, so that the drum 30 Even if foreign matter accumulates in the lifter 100 during rotation, the balance of rotation of the drum 30 can be maintained. In contrast, the washing machine 2 shown in FIG. 17 has one lifter 100 including a filter 120 and two lifters 100a not including a filter 120, which rotate around the axis of rotation of the drum 30. Since they are arranged at the same angle to each other at the center, if foreign matter accumulates in the lifter 100 including the filter 120 while the drum 30 rotates, unbalance may occur in the rotation of the drum 30.

Figure 18 briefly shows components of a washing machine and signal flow between components, according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 18, a control method for detecting blockage of the filter 120 of the lifter 100 of the washing machine 2 shown in FIG. 17 will be described.

Referring to FIG. 18, in one embodiment, the washing machine 1 includes a user interface device 15, a driving device 40, a sensor unit 95, a communication module 96, and a control unit 90. It can be included.

The user interface device 15 may provide a user interface for the washing machine 1 to interact with the user and the washing machine 1 .

The user interface device 15 may include at least one input interface 16 and at least one output interface 17.

At least one input interface 16 may convert sensory information received from the user into an electrical signal.

At least one input interface 16 may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash/rinse/spin setting button. At least one input interface 16 may include a filter confirmation button. According to various embodiments, the filter check button may be a button for operating the drum 30 to check whether the filter 120 needs to be cleaned and/or replaced. At least one input interface 16 may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and/or a microphone, etc. may include.

At least one output interface 17 may transmit various data related to the operation of the washing machine 1 to the user by generating sensory information.

For example, at least one output interface 17 may convey information related to the washing course, operation time of the washing machine 1, and wash settings/rinse settings/spin settings to the user. Information about the operation of the washing machine 1 may be output through a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface 17 may include, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

The driving device 40 may include a driving motor 41 that provides driving force to rotate the drum 30. The driving device 40 may operate based on a control signal from the controller 90.

The sensor unit 95 may include at least one sensor that obtains information related to the operating state of the washing machine 1.

For example, the sensor unit 95 may include at least one of a water level sensor that detects the water level of the tub, a sensor that detects the operating state of the driving device 40, or a vibration sensor that detects vibration of the drum 30. You can.

The sensor that detects the operating state of the driving device 40 may include, for example, a current sensor that measures the driving current applied to the driving motor 41, but is not limited thereto.

The washing machine 1 may include a communication module 96 for wired and/or wireless communication with an external device.

The communication module 96 may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-distance communication module.

The communication module 96 may transmit data to or receive data from an external device (eg, a server, user device, and/or home appliance). For example, the communication module 96 may establish communication with a server and/or a user device and/or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various data.

To this end, the communication module 96 may support establishing a direct (eg, wired) communication channel or wireless communication channel between external devices, and performing communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication module 96 is a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) ) may include a communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module is a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a legacy cellular network, 5G network, It can communicate with external devices through a telecommunication network such as a next-generation telecommunication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into one component (e.g., a single chip) or may be implemented as a plurality of separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

The short-range wireless communication module includes a Bluetooth communication module, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, Near Field Communication module, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, Zigbee communication module, It may include, but is not limited to, an infrared data association (IrDA) communication module, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication module, an ultrawideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, and a microwave (uWave) communication module. no.

The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals to at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

In one embodiment, the communication module may communicate with external devices such as servers, user devices, and other home appliances through a nearby access point (AP). The access repeater (AP) can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine 1 or the user device is connected to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing machine 1 or the user device may be connected to the server via a wide area network (WAN). The control unit 90 can control various components (eg, the driving device 40) of the washing machine 1. The control unit 90 may control various components of the washing machine 1 to perform at least one operation including water supply, washing, rinsing, and/or dehydration according to user input. For example, the control unit 90 may control the drive motor 41 to adjust the rotation speed of the drum 30.

The control unit 90 may include hardware such as a CPU or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit 90 uses an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the washing machine 1, at least one memory 92 that stores data in the form of a program, and data stored in the at least one memory. It may include at least one processor 91 that performs the above-described operations. The memory 92 and the processor 91 may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor 91 may include one or two or more processor chips, or may include one or two or more processing cores. The memory 92 may include one or two or more memory chips, or may include one or two or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory 92 and processor 91 may be implemented as a single chip.

Referring to FIG. 18, the control unit 90 may operate the driving device 40 and the sensor unit 95 based on receiving a signal through the input interface 16.

As the driving device 40 is operated by the control unit 90, the drum 30 can rotate. For example, the drum 30 may be rotated to check when to replace the filter 120 of the lifter 100 in a state where there is no laundry inside.

If the amount of foreign matter accumulated in the lifter 100 provided on the inner peripheral surface of the drum 30 is less than a preset amount, unbalance may not occur in the rotation of the drum 30.

If the foreign matter accumulated in the lifter 100 provided on the inner peripheral surface of the drum 30 exceeds a preset amount, unbalance may occur in the rotation of the drum 30.

As the sensor unit 95 is operated by the control unit 90, the sensor unit 95 can detect whether unbalance occurs in the rotation of the drum 30. For example, the sensor unit 95 may detect vibration of the drum 30 and detect whether unbalance occurs in the rotation of the drum 30.

The control unit 90 may determine whether to replace the filter 120 of the lifter 100 based on information obtained from the sensor unit 95.

For example, the control unit 90 may determine that the filter 120 of the lifter 100 needs to be replaced based on the magnitude of vibration caused by the rotation of the drum 30 being greater than a preset magnitude, and the drum ( Based on the fact that the magnitude of vibration caused by the rotation of 30) is smaller than the preset magnitude, it may be determined that replacement of the filter 120 of the lifter 100 is unnecessary.

Based on the determination that the filter 120 of the lifter 100 needs to be replaced, the control unit 90 may display to the user through the output interface 17 that the filter 120 of the lifter 100 needs to be replaced. there is.

Figure 19 shows a flowchart of a washing machine control method according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 19, the input interface 16 may transmit a signal to the control unit 90 as it receives a user input to check whether the filter 120 of the lifter 100 is replaced, and the control unit 90 ) may receive a signal to check whether the filter 120 of the lifter 100 is cleaned and/or replaced (1100). For example, with the drum 30 at rest and no laundry present inside the drum 30, the input interface 16 determines whether the filter 120 of the lifter 100 should be cleaned and/or replaced. User input can be received for confirmation.

The control unit 90 may generate a control signal to rotate the drum 30 (1200). The drum 30 may rotate at a preset speed based on a signal from the control unit 90 (1300).

The control unit 90 may operate the sensor unit 95 to detect information about the rotation of the drum 30. The sensor unit 95 can detect vibration caused by rotation of the drum 30. The control unit 90 may receive information about vibration caused by rotation of the drum 30 from the sensor unit 95 (1400).

The control unit 90 may determine that the filter 120 of the lifter 100 needs to be cleaned and/or replaced based on the occurrence of unbalance in the vibration caused by the rotation of the drum 30. Based on the determination that the filter 120 of the lifter 100 requires cleaning and/or replacement, the control unit 90 sends a signal to the output interface 17 and/or a signal to stop the drive device 40. A signal may be generated (1500) indicating that cleaning and/or replacement is necessary.

Based on a signal generated from the control unit 90, the rotation of the drum 30 is stopped, and/or a notification of cleaning and/or replacement of the filter 120 of the lifter 100 is displayed on the output interface 17. It can be done (1600).

The flow chart shown in FIG. 19 is not intended to limit the order of each step (1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, and 1600). The order may change according to various embodiments.

For example, step 1100 in which the control unit 90 receives a signal confirming whether the filter 120 is cleaned may be omitted. Step 1200 of generating a control signal to rotate the drum 30 may include the control unit 90 generating a control signal to rotate the drum 30 for a dehydration process. Step 1300 of rotating the drum 30 may include rotating the drum 30 while performing a dehydration process.

After the dehydration process starts and a preset time has elapsed, the sensor unit 95 can detect the vibration of the drum 30, and the control unit 90 can receive a signal from the sensor unit 95 ( 1400).

After the dehydration process starts, after a preset time has elapsed, it is determined that the filter 120 of the lifter 100 needs to be cleaned and/or replaced based on the vibration caused by the rotation of the drum 30 not stabilizing. You can.

Based on the determination that the filter 120 of the lifter 100 requires cleaning and/or replacement, the control unit 90 sends a signal to the output interface 17 and/or a signal to stop the drive device 40. A signal may be generated (1500) indicating that cleaning and/or replacement is necessary.

Based on a signal generated from the control unit 90, the rotation of the drum 30 is stopped, and/or a notification of cleaning and/or replacement of the filter 120 of the lifter 100 is displayed on the output interface 17. It can be done (1600).

Figure 20 shows an example of filter status information being output to a washing machine according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 20, the washing machine 1 may output status information of the filter 120 in response to detection of vibration due to rotation of the drum 30 by the sensor unit 95.

For example, the control unit 90 may control the output interface 17 to output information indicating that the filter 120 needs to be cleaned and/or replaced in response to receiving a detection signal from the sensor unit 95. there is.

The output interface 17 may include a display, and outputting information that the filter 120 needs to be cleaned and/or replaced is a visual indicator on the display that the filter 120 needs to be cleaned and/or replaced. It may include displaying an indicator.

In the present disclosure, the visual indicator may include any means that can convey visualized information such as text, shapes, icons, animations, etc.

That is, the control unit 90 may control the output interface 17 to display a visual indicator indicating that the filter 120 needs to be cleaned and/or replaced in response to receiving a detection signal from the sensor unit 95. there is.

As another example, the output interface 17 may include at least one indicator lamp, and outputting information that the filter 120 needs to be cleaned and/or replaced may be output to the filter 120 among the at least one indicator lamp. This may include turning on or blinking a corresponding indicator lamp.

That is, the control unit 90 may control the output interface 17 to turn on or blink an indicator lamp corresponding to the filter 120 in response to receiving a detection signal from the sensor unit 95.

At least one input interface 16 may include a filter confirmation button. According to various embodiments, the filter check button may be a button for operating the drum 30 to check whether the filter 120 needs to be cleaned and/or replaced. In response to receiving a user input through the filter check button, the control unit 90 determines whether the filter 120 of the lifter 100 is replaced in a state where there is no laundry inside the drum 30. , a control signal for rotating the drum 30 can be generated.

21 shows a washing machine according to one embodiment. FIG. 22 shows a cross section of the washing machine shown in FIG. 21. Figure 23 shows a cross section of the drum shown in Figure 22.

As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the washing machine 1a may include a housing 11a that accommodates various components therein. The housing 11a may form the exterior of the washing machine 1a. The housing 11a may have a box shape with one portion open.

The housing 11a may include a housing opening 12a formed to allow access to the interior of the drum 30a. The housing opening 12a may be open approximately upward.

The washing machine 1a may include a door 13a for opening and closing the housing opening 12a provided in the housing 11a. The door 13a may be rotatably mounted on the housing 11a by a hinge. At least a portion of the door 13a may be transparent or translucent so that the inside of the housing 11a is visible.

The washing machine 1a may include a tub 20a provided inside the housing 11a to store water. The tub 20a may be placed inside the housing 11a. The tub 20a may include a tub opening 22a provided to correspond to the housing opening 12a. The tub opening 22a may be opened approximately upward. The tub 20a may be supported inside the housing 11a. The tub 20a may have a substantially cylindrical shape with one side open.

The tub 20a may be elastically supported from the housing 11a by the damper 80a. The damper 80a can connect the housing 11a and the tub 20a. When the vibration generated when the drum 30a rotates is transmitted to the tub 20a and/or the housing 11a, the damper 80a absorbs the vibration energy between the tub 20a and the housing 11a to prevent vibration. It can be arranged to attenuate.

The washing machine 1a may include a drum 30a provided to accommodate laundry. The drum 30a may be rotatably provided inside the tub 20a. The drum 30a may perform washing, rinsing, and/or dehydration while rotating inside the tub 20a. The drum 30a may include a through hole 34a connecting the inner space of the drum 30a and the inner space of the tub 20a. The drum 30a may have a substantially cylindrical shape with one side open.

A balancing unit 36a may be installed at the top of the drum 30a to resolve load imbalance caused by laundry. The balancing unit 36a includes a housing having an annular channel, and a ball or fluid mass movably provided inside the channel, and the balls or fluid move according to the rotation of the drum 30a and move the drum 30a. Load imbalance can be resolved.

The pulsator 37a is rotatably provided at the bottom of the drum 30a and can generate a washing water stream. Laundry may be washed by the washing water stream generated by the pulsator 37a.

The drum 30a may include a drum opening 32a provided to correspond to the housing opening 12a and the tub opening 22a. Laundry can be put into or taken out from the drum 30a through the housing opening 12a, the tub opening 22a, and the drum opening 32a.

The washing machine 1a may include a washing machine driving device 40a configured to rotate the drum 30a and the pulsator 37a. The washing machine driving device 40a may include a driving motor 41a and a shaft system for transmitting the driving force generated by the driving motor 41a to the drum 30a and the pulsator 37a.

The driving motor 41a may include a fixed stator 48a and a rotor 49a that electromagnetically interacts with the stator 48a to rotate.

The shaft system includes a dehydration shaft 47a provided to transmit the driving force of the drive motor 41a to the drum 30a, a washing shaft 46a provided to transmit the driving force of the drive motor 41a to the pulsator 37a, and , It may include a clutch device (45a) that connects or disconnects the drive motor (41a) and the de-shrinkage (47a).

The deshrinking shaft 47a is formed to have a hollow, and the washing shaft 46a may be provided in the hollow of the deshrinking shaft 47a. The washing shaft 46a remains connected to the rotor 49a of the drive motor 41a, and the desizing shaft 47a is connected to the rotor 49a of the drive motor 41a by the clutch device 45a, or The connection may be lost.

When the clutch device 45a disconnects the deshrinking shaft 47a and the drive motor 41a, power is transmitted only to the washing shaft 46a to rotate only the pulsator 37a, and the clutch device 45a rotates the deshrinking shaft (46a). When 47a) and the drive motor 41a are connected, power is transmitted to both the dehydration shaft 47a and the washing shaft 46a, so that the drum 30a and the pulsator 37a can rotate simultaneously.

When only the pulsator (37a) rotates, a wash water stream is generated by the rotation of the pulsator (37a), and the laundry rotates due to the generated wash water stream and rubs against the drum (30a), thereby allowing the laundry to be washed. When the pulsator 37a and the drum 30a rotate simultaneously, the laundry inside the drum 30a rotates and moisture from the laundry is removed by centrifugal force, so that the laundry can be dehydrated.

The washing machine 1a may include a water supply device 50a. The water supply device 50a can supply water to the tub 20a. The water supply device 50a may be located above the tub 20a. The water supply device 50a may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve provided in the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water supply source. The water supply pipe may extend from an external water supply source to the detergent supply device 60a and/or the tub 20a. Water may be supplied to the tub 20a through the detergent supply device 60a. Water can be supplied to the tub 20a without going through the detergent supply device 60a.

The water supply valve may open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the control unit 90a. The water supply valve can allow or block the supply of water from an external water supply source to the tub 20a. The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

The washing machine 1a may include a detergent supply device 60a configured to supply detergent to the tub 20a. The detergent supply device 60a may be configured to supply detergent into the tub 20a during the water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device 60a. Water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub 20a. Detergents may include not only laundry detergents but also dryer rinses, deodorants, disinfectants, or air fresheners.

The washing machine 1a may include a drainage device 70a. The drainage device 70a may be configured to discharge water contained in the tub 20a to the outside. A drain 21a may be formed in the lower part of the tub 20a to drain water stored in the tub 20a to the outside of the tub 20a. A drain hose 74a may be connected to the drain hole 21a, and a drain valve 72a may be provided in the drain hose 74a to open and close the drain hose 74a.

The washing machine 1a may provide a user interface device 15a for interaction between the user and the washing machine 1a.

The washing machine 1a may include at least one user interface device 15a. The user interface device 15a may include at least one input interface 16a and at least one output interface 17b.

At least one input interface 16a may convert sensory information received from the user into an electrical signal.

At least one input interface 16a may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash/rinse/spin setting button. At least one input interface 16a may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and/or a microphone, etc. may include.

At least one output interface 17b may transmit various data related to the operation of the washing machine 1a to the user by generating sensory information.

For example, at least one output interface 17b may convey information related to the washing course, operation time of the washing machine 1a, and wash settings/rinse settings/spin settings to the user. Information about the operation of the washing machine 1a may be output through a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface 17b may include, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 23 , the washing machine 1a may include the same lifter 100 as the lifter 100 shown in FIGS. 1 to 11 . For example, the lifter 100 according to one embodiment may be provided on the inner peripheral surface of a drum of a front loading washing machine, or may be provided on the inner peripheral surface of a drum of a top loading washing machine. The lifter 100 may be provided to filter foreign substances from the washing water inside the drum 30a. The lifter 100 may be provided to filter microplastics of approximately 5 mm or less in size.

Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23 , the washing machine 1a may include a lifter 100a that does not include a filter 120, like the washing machine 2 shown in FIG. 17 . For example, the washing machine 1a according to one embodiment may include one lifter 100 including a filter 120 and two lifters 100a not including a filter 120. For example, a washing machine according to an embodiment may include two lifters 100 including a filter 120 and one lifter 100a not including a filter 120.

21 to 23, one lifter 100 including a filter 120 and two lifters 100a not including a filter 120 rotate around the rotation axis of the drum 30a. Since they are arranged at the same angle to each other at the center, if foreign matter accumulates in the lifter 100 including the filter 120 while the drum 30a rotates, unbalance may occur in the rotation of the drum 30a.

The washing machine 1a shown in FIGS. 21 to 23 may have the same control configuration as that of the washing machine 2 shown in FIG. 19 . The same control method as the control method shown in FIG. 20 may be applied to the washing machine 1a shown in FIGS. 21 to 23 to check whether the filter 120 of the lifter 100 is replaced.

The washing machine 1 according to one embodiment includes a housing 11, a drum 30 rotatably provided inside the housing, and a lifter 100 extending from the inner peripheral surface of the drum toward the rotation axis of the drum. do. The lifter includes a lifter body 111 mounted on the drum, a lifter case detachably mounted on the lifter body, and a lifter case 131 having an inlet 132 and an outlet 133. It includes a filter 120 provided, and a lifter valve 140 provided with an elastic body to open and close the inlet. According to this configuration, the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment can collect foreign substances in the lifter 100, thereby reducing the amount of foreign substances discharged from the washing machine 1.

The filter may be provided in a portion of the lifter case where the discharge portion is located. According to this configuration, the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment can filter foreign substances from the washing water discharged from the lifter 100.

The discharge portion may be provided to face the rotation axis of the drum. According to this configuration, the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment can easily discharge the washing water flowing into the lifter 100 into the inside of the drum 30.

The discharge portion is a first discharge portion 233a, and the lifter case may include a second discharge portion 233b facing the first discharge portion. According to this configuration, the lifter 200 according to one embodiment can increase the fluidity of the washing water inside the drum 30.

The second discharge portion may be located radially outside the drum than the first discharge portion. According to this configuration, the lifter 200 according to one embodiment can effectively collect foreign substances by centrifugal force as the drum 30 rotates.

The inlet may be provided to face the rotation direction of the drum. According to this configuration, the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment can easily allow washing water and/or foreign substances in the drum 30 to flow into the lifter 100 while the drum 30 rotates.

The lifter valve may include a fixed part 141 fixed to the lifter case, and a moving part 142 whose thickness becomes thinner as the distance from the fixed part increases. According to this configuration, the lifter 100 according to one embodiment can open and close the inlet 132 with a relatively simple configuration.

The lifter case includes a rotary coupling portion 137 rotatably coupled to the lifter body, and a fixed coupling portion 138 provided to be fixable to the lifter body while the rotary coupling portion is rotatably coupled to the lifter body. ) may include. According to this configuration, the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment can easily attach and detach the lifter 100 from the inner peripheral surface of the drum 30.

The inlet may include a first inlet 132a facing a first rotation direction of the drum and a second inlet 132b facing a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction of the drum. The lifter valve may include a first lifter valve 140a provided to open and close the first inlet portion and a second lifter valve 140b provided to open and close the second inlet portion. The lifter may include valve support members 350 and 450 provided to apply elasticity to the first lifter valve in a direction away from the second lifter valve. According to this configuration, the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment can prevent washing water and/or foreign substances from flowing back into the drum 30 from the inside of the lifters 300 and 400 through the inlet 132. .

The lifter case may include a transparent or translucent window 534 provided in a portion of the drum facing the drum opening. According to this configuration, the lifter 500 according to one embodiment can easily check the amount of foreign substances accumulated inside.

The lifter is a first lifter 100, and a second lifter 100a configured differently from the first lifter may be provided on the inner peripheral surface of the drum.

The washing machine includes a driving device 40 for driving the drum, a vibration sensor 95 for detecting vibration of the drum while the drum rotates, and based on information detected by the vibration sensor, It may further include a control unit 90 that controls the device.

The control unit may stop the operation of the driving device based on determining that the vibration of the drum is greater than a preset magnitude. According to this configuration, the washing machine 2 according to one embodiment can easily check the replacement time of the filter 120 of the lifter 100.

The lifter case may include a chamber 139 formed to collect foreign substances filtered by the filter.

The lifter valve may be provided to open and close the inlet portion to allow foreign substances to enter the chamber, but to prevent foreign substances from being discharged from the chamber. According to this configuration, the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment can prevent foreign substances from flowing back through the inlet 132 of the lifter 100.

The washing machine 1 according to one embodiment includes a housing, a tub provided inside the housing, a drum rotatably provided inside the tub, and a lifter extending from the inner peripheral surface of the drum toward the rotation axis of the drum. do. The lifter includes a lifter body mounted on the drum, a lifter case detachably mounted on the lifter body, a lifter case having an inlet and an outlet, a filter provided in a portion of the lifter case where the outlet is located, and It is a lifter valve provided with an elastic body, and includes a lifter valve provided to open and close the inlet portion to allow foreign substances to flow into the interior of the lifter case, but to prevent foreign substances from being discharged from the lifter case. According to this configuration, the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment can collect foreign substances in the lifter 100, thereby reducing the amount of foreign substances discharged from the washing machine 1 and the inlet of the lifter 100. Through (132), foreign substances can be prevented from flowing back.

The lifter valve may include a fixed part fixed to the lifter case, and a moving part provided with a thickness smaller than that of the fixed part. According to this configuration, the lifter 100 according to one embodiment can open and close the inlet 132 with a relatively simple configuration.

The inlet may be provided to face the rotation direction of the drum. The discharge portion may be provided to face the rotation axis of the drum. According to this configuration, the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment can improve the fluidity of the washing water inside the drum 30.

The discharge portion may include a first discharge portion provided to discharge water from the lifter case to the drum, and a second discharge portion provided to discharge water from the lifter case to the tub. According to this configuration, the lifter 200 according to one embodiment can increase the fluidity of the washing water inside the drum 30.

The washing machine includes a driving device for driving the drum, a vibration sensor for detecting vibration of the drum while the drum rotates, and a control unit for controlling the driving device based on information detected by the vibration sensor. More may be included. The control unit may stop the operation of the driving device based on determining that the vibration of the drum is greater than a preset magnitude. According to this configuration, the washing machine 2 according to one embodiment can easily check the replacement time of the filter 120 of the lifter 100.

According to the spirit of the present disclosure, the washing machine can easily separate the lifter case in which foreign substances are collected from the lifter body, so the filter can be easily managed.

According to the spirit of the present disclosure, the washing machine can separate foreign substances collected inside the lifter from the filter by centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the drum and collect them, thereby increasing the filter replacement cycle.

According to the spirit of the present disclosure, the washing machine can filter microplastics in the lifter, thereby increasing the efficiency of the filter.

The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. will be.

In the above, specific embodiments are shown and described. However, it is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and those skilled in the art can make various changes without departing from the gist of the technical idea of the invention as set forth in the claims below. .

Claims (15)

housing; a drum rotatably provided inside the housing; and It includes a lifter extending from the inner peripheral surface of the drum toward the rotation axis of the drum, The lifter is, a lifter body mounted on the drum; A lifter case detachably attachable to the lifter body, the lifter case having an inlet and an outlet; A filter provided in the lifter case; and A washing machine including a lifter valve provided with an elastic body to open and close the inlet portion. According to paragraph 1, The filter is provided in a part of the lifter case where the discharge unit is located. According to paragraph 1, A washing machine wherein the discharge portion is provided toward the rotation axis of the drum. According to paragraph 3, The discharge unit is a first discharge unit, The lifter case is a washing machine including a second discharge portion facing the first discharge portion. According to paragraph 4, The second discharge part is located in a radial outer side of the drum than the first discharge part. According to paragraph 1, A washing machine wherein the inlet portion is provided to face the rotation direction of the drum. According to paragraph 1, The lifter valve is, A fixing part fixed to the lifter case; and A washing machine including a moving part whose thickness becomes thinner as it moves away from the fixed part. According to paragraph 1, The lifter case is, a rotational coupling portion rotatably coupled to the lifter body; and A washing machine comprising: a fixed coupler provided to be fixable to the lifter body while the rotary coupler is rotatably coupled to the lifter body. According to paragraph 1, The inlet portion includes a first inlet portion facing a first rotation direction of the drum and a second inlet portion facing a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction of the drum, The lifter valve includes a first lifter valve provided to open and close the first inlet and a second lifter valve provided to open and close the second inlet, The lifter is a washing machine including a valve support member provided to apply elasticity to the first lifter valve in a direction away from the second lifter valve. According to paragraph 1, The lifter case is a washing machine including a transparent or translucent window provided in a portion of the drum facing the drum opening. According to paragraph 1, The lifter is a first lifter, A washing machine in which a second lifter configured differently from the first lifter is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the drum. According to clause 11, a driving device for driving the drum; A vibration sensor for detecting vibration of the drum while the drum rotates; and A washing machine further comprising a control unit that controls the driving device based on information detected by the vibration sensor. According to clause 12, The control unit, A washing machine that stops operation of the driving device based on the vibration of the drum being determined to be greater than a preset magnitude. According to paragraph 1, The lifter case is a washing machine including a chamber formed to collect foreign substances filtered by the filter. According to clause 14, The lifter valve is provided to open and close the inlet portion to allow foreign substances to enter the chamber, but to prevent foreign substances from being discharged from the chamber.

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