CN115698412A - Method for controlling a washing machine and washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a washing machine (10) comprising: a washing tub (30); one or more electronic valves (70) through which liquid is admitted into the washing tub (30) ); a liquid level detector (100), which is configured to detect an amount indicating the liquid level in the washing tub (30); a discharge pump (92), which is configured to discharge from the The washing tub (30) discharges liquid; a plurality of further electrical loads (50, 51, 52, 53); a control unit (200) configured to control the one or more electronic valves (70), the The liquid level detector (100), the discharge pump (92), and the plurality of further electrical loads (50, 51, 52, 53), wherein the method comprises: placing the washing machine (10) in a standby state , in said standby state, the one or more electronic valves (70), and one or more of the plurality of other electrical loads (50, 51, 52, 53) are disconnected from the power supply, wherein , the method comprises the following steps: - when the washing machine (10) is in the standby state, supplying power to the liquid level detector (100) for at least a first on-time interval (tON1); - during the first on-time interval During (tON1), the first value (L1) of the amount indicating the liquid level in the washing tub (30) is detected by the liquid level detector (100); - if the first value (L1) meets the first predetermined condition, activate the drain pump (92) to drain liquid from the wash tub (30) and/or generate an alarm. The invention also relates to a washing machine (10) configured to carry out the method.

Description

Method for controlling a washing machine and washing machine

The invention relates to a method for controlling a washing machine, such as a washing machine or a dishwasher, and a washing machine configured to carry out the method.

Today, washing machines, such as washing machines and dishwashers, comprise wash tubs into which items to be washed can be loaded via access openings which can be closed by doors or portholes.

In particular, in known washing machines, items to be washed (i.e., clothes) are loaded in a rotating drum contained in a washing tub, and in known dishwashers, items to be washed (i.e., crockery or tableware) are usually loaded in racks that are removably mounted on the wash tub.

Known washing machines typically comprise electrical loads (user interface(s), pump(s), valve(s), motor(s), etc.), and are configured for An electronic control unit that controls such electrical loads.

In known washing machines, water enters the tub through a water supply circuit connected to a water delivery main outside the machine; either before or after entering the tub, the water may be mixed with wash and/or rinse additives and/or may be heated to desired temperature.

Typically, the water supply circuit includes one or more electronic valves controlled by the control unit to selectively regulate the entry of water from the water delivery device.

After a wash cycle, wash liquid (ie water, or water mixed with wash/rinse additive(s)) is drained from the tub through a drain circuit, typically comprising a drain pump controlled by a control unit.

Today, in order to reduce electricity consumption, most known washing machines are configured in such a way that after a washing cycle and/or when the washing machine is not operated for a period of time, these washing machines are automatically put into "standby mode", i.e. , the state in which all or most of the electrical loads are not powered.

In fact, it is known that many electrical loads, when powered (i.e., when electrically connected to the mains), absorb power even when not operating, so that the only way to completely eliminate their power absorption is to temporarily cut off the power supply (i.e. , disconnect them from the power supply).

In known washing machines, sometimes the electronic valve(s) of the water supply circuit may start to leak, so that water from the water delivery main outside the machine may enter the wash tub and collect at its bottom. If the washing machine is used frequently, the user may not notice the leak, as many wash cycles these days begin by draining any liquid that may remain from the bottom of the wash tub.

Furthermore, in most known washing machines, during the wash cycle, the liquid level in the tub is monitored by a liquid level detection device, and the control unit is typically configured for use in the event that the water level in the tub is higher than expected ( This may occur in the event of a leaking electronic valve) generating an alarm message (eg a specific sound) and/or interrupting the wash cycle.

In any event, such level control is at most effective during the wash cycle and not, for example, when the washing machine is in the aforementioned standby state.

Therefore, the following problems exist in known washing machines:

When the washing machine is in stand-by, leaks are difficult for the user to notice, so the water level in the tub rises until, for example, via the opening for loading items to be washed into the washing tub (if the door or porthole of the machine is open), and/or Overflowing the washing machine via other openings that connect the interior of the washing tub to the external environment (for example, an air gap provided in the washing machine to prevent liquid from possibly flowing back from the washing tub to a water delivery main that is fluidly connected to the washing machine) outside.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a solution for avoiding the possible leakage of liquid from a washing machine (e.g. washing machine, washing-drying machine, etc.) machine, dishwasher) bucket overflow.

The applicant has found that by activating the liquid level detector of the washing machine while the washing machine is in standby, an abnormal rise in the liquid level in the wash tub can be detected during this standby state and the discharge pump and/or Generates an alarm to reduce the risk that liquid may spill from the washing machine.

In particular, the above objects are solved by a method for operating a washing machine comprising: a washing tub; one or more electronic valves through which liquid is admitted into the washing tub; a liquid level detector, The liquid level detector is configured to detect an amount indicative of the liquid level in the wash tub; a discharge pump configured to discharge liquid from the wash tub; a plurality of additional electrical loads; a control unit that controls The unit is configured to control the one or more electronic valves, the liquid level detector, the discharge pump, and the plurality of additional electrical loads, wherein the method comprises: placing the washing machine in a standby state, during the In the standby state, disconnecting the one or more electronic valves and one or more of the plurality of other electrical loads from the power supply, wherein the method includes the following steps:

- when the washing machine is in the standby state, supplying power to the liquid level detector for at least a first on-time interval;

- during the first opening time interval, detecting a first value indicative of a quantity of liquid level in the washing tub by the liquid level detector;

- activating the drain pump to drain liquid from the washing tub and/or generating an alarm if the first value satisfies a first predetermined condition.

In a preferred embodiment, the first predetermined condition with respect to the first value comprises reaching or exceeding a predetermined first threshold.

In a preferred embodiment, the first opening time interval is between 5 seconds and 15 seconds.

More preferably, the first opening time interval is 10 seconds.

In an advantageous embodiment, the method comprises, when the washing machine is in standby and after a period of at least a first on-time interval of supplying power to the level detector, carrying out the following phase:

- disconnecting the liquid level detector from the power supply for a first off time interval.

Preferably, the first turn-off time interval is between 50 seconds and 70 seconds.

More preferably, the first turn-off time interval is 60 seconds.

In an advantageous embodiment, the method comprises:

- detecting or estimating a starting value indicating a quantity of liquid level in the washing tub at the beginning of the standby state;

- comparing the first value with the starting value;

- activating the discharge pump if the difference between the first value and the starting value reaches or exceeds a predetermined second threshold.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the method comprises: when the washing machine is in standby and after a period of at least a first on-time interval of powering the level detector, carrying out the following phase:

- when the washing machine is in a standby state, supplying power to the liquid level detector for a second on-time interval;

- during a second on-time interval, detecting a second value indicative of a quantity of liquid level in the washing tub by the liquid level detector;

- compare the second value with the first value;

- activating the discharge pump and/or generating an alarm if the difference between the second value and said first value reaches or exceeds a predetermined third threshold.

Preferably, the stage of disconnecting the liquid level detector from the power supply for the first off time interval is between the stage of supplying power to the liquid level detector for the first on time interval and the stage of supplying power to the liquid level detector for the second on time interval between the stages.

Preferably, the method comprises: when the washing machine is in standby and after a period of supplying power to the liquid level detector for a second on time interval, the following phases:

- Disconnecting the liquid level detector from the power supply for a second off time interval.

In a preferred embodiment, the second turn-off time interval is between 50 seconds and 70 seconds.

More preferably, the second turn-off time interval is 60 seconds.

In a preferred embodiment, when the washing machine is in standby, the period of supplying power to the liquid level detector for at least the first on-time interval is after a predetermined first delay time has elapsed since the washing machine has been placed in standby Yes, during the predetermined first delay time, the liquid level detector is disconnected from the power supply.

Preferably, the first delay time is between 50 seconds and 70 seconds.

More preferably, the first delay time is 60 seconds.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the phase of supplying power to the level detector for at least the first on-time interval is started simultaneously with placing the washing machine in standby.

In a preferred embodiment, when the washing machine is in the standby state, powering the liquid level detector for at least a second on-time interval is when a predetermined second delay time has elapsed since the washing machine has been placed in the standby state carried out afterwards.

In an advantageous embodiment, the plurality of further electrical loads comprises a user interface, wherein the user interface is disconnected from the power supply when the washing machine is in standby.

In an advantageous embodiment, once the discharge pump has been activated to discharge liquid from the wash tub when the washing machine is in stand-by, the discharge pump remains activated until a liquid level detected by the liquid level detector indicates the liquid level in the wash tub. The value of the quantity satisfies a second predetermined condition and/or lasts for a predetermined activation time.

In a further advantageous embodiment, when the washing machine is in the standby state, the discharge pump is powered for the entire duration of the standby state.

In a further advantageous embodiment, when the washing machine is in standby, the discharge pump is powered only if the first value satisfies a first predetermined condition.

In a preferred embodiment, when the washing machine is in a standby state, the following three stages are repeated multiple times in this order;

- powering the liquid level detector for at least a first on-time interval;

- during the first opening time interval, detecting a first value indicative of a quantity of liquid level in the washing tub by the liquid level detector;

- disconnecting the liquid level detector from the power supply for a first off time interval.

Preferably, these three stages are repeated multiple times with predetermined time intervals when the washing machine is in a standby state.

Preferably, the discharge pump is activated if the first liquid level satisfies a first predetermined condition during the repetition of these three stages when the washing machine is in standby.

In an advantageous embodiment, when the washing machine is in the standby state, if the first value detected by the liquid level detector satisfies a first predetermined condition, the liquid level detector is kept powered for the entire remaining duration of the standby state.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the method comprises: powering the liquid level detector for the entire duration of the standby state.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the washing machine comprises a door or a porthole configured to selectively close the washing tub, and closure detection means operatively connected to the control unit, the closure detection means being configured to detect that the door or whether the porthole is open or closed, wherein, if the first value satisfies a first predetermined condition, while the washing machine is in standby and before the step of activating a drain pump to drain liquid from the wash tub and/or generating an alarm, the method comprises the steps of :

- Detecting whether the door or porthole is closed or open by the closure detection means and using a first predetermined condition if the door or porthole is closed and a different first predetermined condition if the door or porthole is open.

It is emphasized that the first predetermined condition to be used depending on the closed state of the door may advantageously be stored, for example by the electronic control unit, in a plurality of first predetermined conditions stored in the storage means of the washing machine (preferably contained in the control unit and/or or functionally associated with the control unit).

In a further advantageous embodiment, the first predetermined condition to be used depending on the closed state of the door may advantageously be based, for example by an electronic control unit, on the basis of data indicative of the closed state of the door, and optionally also other data relating to the washing machine to set and/or calculate and/or process.

Advantageously, the value of the predetermined first threshold with the door or porthole closed is higher than the value of the first threshold with the door or porthole open.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the value of the predetermined second threshold with the door or the porthole closed is higher than the value of the second threshold with the door or the porthole open.

In yet another advantageous embodiment, the predetermined value of the third threshold when the door or porthole is closed is higher than the value of the third threshold when the door or porthole is open.

The above object is also solved by a washing machine comprising:

- washing tub;

- one or more electronic valves through which the liquid is admitted into the washing tub;

- a liquid level detector configured to detect the liquid level in the wash tub;

- a discharge pump configured to discharge liquid from the wash tub;

- a plurality of further electrical loads;

- a control unit configured to control the liquid level detector, the discharge pump and the plurality of further electric loads, wherein the control unit is configured to control one or more electric valves, liquid level detection in a manner The device, the discharge pump and the plurality of further electric loads are used to carry out the method according to the invention.

Other advantages and characteristics of the washing machine according to the invention will become clear from the following detailed description, provided only as a non-limiting example, in the accompanying drawings:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine, in particular a washing machine, according to the present invention;

Figure 2 is a schematic front section of a washing machine, in particular a washing machine, according to the invention, some parts not shown;

Figure 3 is a flow chart illustrating some operations of a first embodiment of the method according to the invention;

Figure 4 is a flow chart illustrating some operations of a second embodiment of the method according to the invention;

Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating some operations of a further embodiment of the method according to the present invention.

In the drawings, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals.

Advantageously, the washing machine 10 shown in the figures is a washing machine, in particular a front-loading washing machine; ” type of top-loading washing machine.

Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to a washer-dryer (ie, a washing machine provided with a drying system for drying laundry in addition to being able to wash laundry) without any substantial modification.

It is clear that the invention can also be applied to a dishwasher (not shown) without any substantial modification.

The washing machine 10 advantageously comprises a cabinet 20 or housing, preferably substantially parallelepiped, advantageously provided with feet 22 configured to be positioned on a horizontal plane 23 , for example the floor of a building.

The cabinet 20 houses a wash tub 30 through which items to be washed (i.e. laundry in the case of a washing machine or washer-dryer, or crockery or cutlery in the case of a dishwasher) can be accessed via a passable door or porthole 4 ( An access opening (not shown), preferably hinged to the cabinet 20) closed is loaded in the wash tub.

In an advantageous embodiment in which the washing machine 10 is a washing machine or a washer-dryer, as in the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the washing tub 30 may preferably be suspended from the cabinet 20 by means of springs and dampers (not shown). .

In an advantageous embodiment in which the washing machine 10 is a washing machine or a washer-dryer, as in the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the washing tub 30 advantageously contains a drum 40 rotatable relative to an axis of rotation (not shown), the clothes Can be loaded in this drum.

In so-called "horizontal axis" washing machines, the axis of rotation of the drum 40 is advantageously horizontal or slightly inclined, while in so-called "vertical axis" washing machines, the axis is vertical.

In an advantageous embodiment when the washing machine 10 is a washing machine or a washer-dryer, as in the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the washing machine comprises at least one (preferably two or more) lifters 41 (also Known as lifter, rib or diverter), the at least one lifter is adapted to improve agitation of the laundry during rotation of the drum 40 .

In a further advantageous embodiment (not shown) in which the washing machine is a dishwasher, the washing tub 30 advantageously comprises one or more racks (not shown) into which items to be washed can be loaded.

The washing machine 10 advantageously comprises a water inlet circuit 60 adapted to supply water, or water mixed with wash/rinse additives, into the tub 30; A first end of a pipe is preferably connected or connectable to a water delivery main (not shown) external to the washing machine 10, such as a water delivery main of a building (not shown). The second end of the first conduit 61 is fluidly connected to one or more electronic valves 70 configured to allow/prevent water from the first conduit 61 from flowing to the second conduit 62, which is fluidly connected to The inside of the wash tub 30 .

In an advantageous embodiment in which the washing machine 10 is a washing machine or a washer-dryer, as in the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , there is preferably an additive drawer between the one or more electronic valves 70 and the second duct 62 80, the additive drawer is arranged in such a way that the water from the first pipe 61 and through the one or more electronic valves 70 can be mixed with the additive contained in the additive drawer 80 (such as cleaning agent and/or softener) The mixture is then admitted into the wash tub 30 via the second conduit 62 .

In a further advantageous embodiment (not shown) where the washing machine 10 is a dishwasher, preferably no such additive drawer 80 is provided and water from a water delivery main outside the washing machine 10 is permitted not to mix with additives , through the first pipe 61, one or more electronic valves 80 and the second pipe 62 into the washing tub 30; in this case, preferably, the washing machine 10 includes an additive dispenser, which is preferably located at The inside of the door or porthole faces the interior of the wash tub 30 and is configured to deliver additives into the wash tub 30 during a wash cycle such that such additives mix with the water present in the wash tub 30 .

Advantageously, the washing tub 30 is fluidly connected to a drain circuit 90 configured to drain liquid from the bottom of the washing tub 30 .

Advantageously, the drain circuit 90 comprises one or more lines 91 and a drain pump 92 configured to draw liquid from the bottom of the washing tub 30 and to drain such liquid to the outside of the washing machine 10 .

Preferably, the discharge circuit 90 includes a filter 93 fluidly connected upstream of the discharge pump 92 for preventing foreign matter from reaching and obstructing/damaging the discharge pump.

In an advantageous embodiment, such as that shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the washing machine 10 may comprise a non-return valve 94 preferably arranged at the outlet of the washing tub 30 or at the inlet of the discharge circuit 90 , for maintaining the wash liquid in the wash tub 30 during part of the wash cycle.

For example, in an advantageous embodiment such as that shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , check valve 94 includes a float 95 (eg, a hollow plastic ball) that can be moved within discharge circuit 90 in a manner that engages valve seat 96 . Moves or floats freely and fluidly separates the wash tub 2 from the drain circuit 90 when the liquid level in the drain circuit 90 rises above a certain value.

The washing machine 10 may advantageously include a recirculation loop (not shown) configured to draw liquid from the wash tub 30 and re-permit such liquid to enter different areas of the wash tub 30 in order to more efficiently reach the All items to be washed loaded into the wash tub.

The washing machine 10 also includes a liquid level detector 100 configured to detect a quantity indicative of a liquid level within the washing tub 30 .

It is emphasized that, in this application, the expression "the amount indicating the liquid level in the washing tub" refers to an amount that has a specific and corresponding relationship with the liquid level in the washing tub 30; for example, the amount indicating the liquid level in the washing tub It may be the liquid level itself (for example, if the liquid level detector is an optical sensor configured to sense the liquid level directly), or some quantity, such as the pressure of the liquid in the washing tub 30, which is related to the pressure of the liquid in the washing tub 30. The liquid levels have a corresponding relationship (eg, proportional).

It is emphasized that the liquid level in the washing tub 30 is advantageously defined relative to a reference liquid level L _ref set by the liquid level detector 100 and may be a preset reference liquid level, or in another advantageous embodiment a The liquid level may be set by the user, for example by operating on the user interface 50 (if provided), as will be better described below.

For example, in an advantageous embodiment such as that illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the reference level L _ref against which the liquid level in the wash tub 30 is measured may be the level of the valve seat 96 of the check valve 94 .

In further advantageous embodiments (not shown), the reference level L _ref may be, for example, the level of the lowest point of the washing tub 30 , or the level of the bottom of the housing 20 , or the level at which the washing machine 10 is configured to be placed. The level of the surface 23; however, other reference levels _Lref can be used.

In a preferred embodiment, the liquid level detector 100 includes an air chamber 101 having a liquid inlet disposed at the washing tub 30 and in fluid communication with the interior of the washing tub; the air chamber 101 is preferably fluidly connected to , more preferably connected to the sensing element 103 of the liquid level detector 100 through a third pipe 102 .

Advantageously, the sensing element 103 may be a pressure sensor; advantageously, the sensing element 103 may comprise an electronic unit (not shown) configured to calculate/determine the pressure in the washing tub 30 from the detected pressure. Liquid level; alternatively or additionally, the electronic unit of the sensing element 103 may be connected to the control unit 200 of the washing machine 30, as will be better described below.

In an advantageous embodiment, during the washing cycle, when the washing liquid/rinsing liquid contained in the washing tub 30 reaches a certain level at which it enters the air chamber 101, this washing liquid/rinsing liquid is compressed and contained in the air chamber 101. 101 so that the pressure is transmitted through the third conduit 102 to a sensing element 103 (eg a pressure sensor) configured to detect the pressure in the air chamber 101 .

The pressure detected by the sensing element 103 is then generated directly by the sensing element 103 (for example, if an integrated electronic unit is provided) or by external electronics connected to the sensing element 103 (for calculating the liquid level in the washing tub 30). A unit such as the control unit 200 of the washing machine 10 is used, which will be better described hereinafter.

Advantageously, as mentioned above, the washing machine 10 may comprise a user interface 50, which advantageously comprises one or more electrical or electronic input/output devices, such as a display 51 (for example a so-called "touch screen" display), one or more One knob 52, one or more switches 53, one or more speakers (not shown), and the like.

As mentioned above, the washing machine 10 advantageously comprises a control unit 200 , for example an electronic board (shown schematically as a rectangle in FIG. 2 ) provided with a microcontroller, configured to control one or more of the washing machine 10 A plurality of electronic valves 70, a liquid level detector 100, a discharge pump 92, and a plurality of additional electrical loads.

Such additional electrical loads may include, for example, the user interface 50, and/or an electric heater (not shown) for heating the wash liquid, and/or an electric motor (not shown), and/or a speaker (not shown) , and/or one or more additional sensors (eg, turbidity sensors, temperature sensors, etc.) (not shown).

In a preferred embodiment, the control unit 200 may advantageously be configured/programmed in such a way that, depending on the wash cycle and/or the value detected by the liquid level detector 100 indicative of the amount of liquid level in the wash tub 30, to control the one or more electronic valves 70.

The method according to the invention comprises: placing the washing machine 10 in a standby state in which the one or more electric valves 70 and one or more of the plurality of further electric loads are disconnected from the power supply .

It is emphasized that in this application, in the case of AC power supply, the moment when the AC power is periodically reversed (that is, when its value is zero) is not considered as a power interruption; in the case of AC power, if there is no power supply for at least The entire cycle of periodic power is considered disconnected.

For example, in the standby state, the electrical load that can be disconnected from the power supply can be the user interface 50 (if provided), and/or the electric heater (if provided), and/or the temperature sensor (if provided), and /or electric motor (if provided), etc.

By disconnecting the power supply, it is ensured that such electrical loads do not draw power when not in operation, thereby reducing the overall energy consumption of the washing machine 10 .

Advantageously, the control unit 200 may be configured to automatically place the washing machine 10 in standby at the end of the washing cycle and/or after receiving a specific command from the user, for example via the user interface 50 (if provided).

The method according to the invention comprises: when the washing machine 10 is in a standby state, supplying power to the liquid level detector 100 for at least a first on-time interval t _ON1 .

The first opening time interval t _ON1 is preferably between 5 seconds and 15 seconds, more preferably 10 seconds.

According to the method of the present invention, during such a first on-time interval t _ON1 , the liquid level detector 100 detects a first value L1 indicative of the amount of the liquid level in the washing tub 30 .

Then, according to the present invention, if the first value L1 satisfies a first predetermined condition, the discharge pump 92 is activated to discharge liquid from the washing tub 30 and/or generate an alarm (eg, sound).

In a first advantageous embodiment, the discharge pump 92 is powered (so that it can be activated to discharge liquid from the washing tub 30 ) for the entire duration of the standby state.

In a different advantageous embodiment, in the standby state, the discharge pump 92 is powered (so that it can be activated to discharge liquid from the washing tub 30 ) only if the first value L1 satisfies a first predetermined condition.

In a further advantageous embodiment, once the discharge pump 92 has been activated to discharge liquid from the wash tub 30 when the washing machine 10 is in standby, the discharge pump remains activated until the indication detected by the liquid level detector 100 indicates that the wash tub The amount of liquid level in the washing tub 30 satisfies a second predetermined condition (for example, if the value detected by the liquid level detector 100 indicating the amount of liquid level in the washing tub 30 is lower than a predetermined value L _OFF ) and/or lasts for a predetermined activation time t _act (eg, in the range between 1 and 2 minutes).

In a first advantageous embodiment, the first predetermined condition with respect to the first value L1 is or includes reaching or exceeding a predetermined first threshold L _thr1 ; thus, in this first advantageous embodiment, if during the standby state, ie when When one or more electronic valves 70 are not operating, the liquid level in the washing tub 30 increases beyond a predetermined threshold (this increase corresponds to the value of the increased detection value L1), which may mean that one or more electronic valves 70 are leak, thus activating drain pump 92 to drain liquid from wash tub 30 to avoid further rise, and/or generate an alarm, such as a sound from a speaker (not shown) provided in washing machine 10, to inform the user of the leak.

It is emphasized that, for example during the design of the washing machine 10, the predetermined first threshold value L _thr1 may be selected according to the specific size and/or shape of the washing tub 30 and/or the discharge circuit 90, in which case when the first value When L1 is lower than the first threshold L _thr1 , the liquid cannot overflow from the washing tub 30 .

Preferably, if the quantity indicative of the liquid level in the washing tub is the liquid level itself, the first threshold L _thr1 may be between 70 and 140 mm.

In this first advantageous embodiment (wherein the first predetermined condition with respect to the first value L1 is or includes reaching or exceeding a predetermined first threshold L _thr1 ), if the discharge pump 92 is activated once, it remains activated until the liquid level is detected The amount detected by the device 100 indicating the liquid level in the washing tub 30 is lower than a predetermined value L _OFF , which may be the same as the predetermined first threshold L _thr1 , or preferably, the predetermined value may be a different _value . , more preferably a value lower than the predetermined first threshold L _thr1 in order to introduce a hysteresis when the discharge pump 92 is activated/deactivated.

Other possible advantageous first predetermined conditions for the first value L1 according to the invention will be described below.

In an advantageous embodiment, when the washing machine 10 is in the standby state and after supplying power to the liquid level detector 100 for a period of at least the first on-time interval t _ON1 , the method comprises: disconnecting the liquid level detector 100 from the power supply for the first off-time interval t _OFF1 ; in this way, the total energy consumption during the standby state is reduced.

In a preferred embodiment, the first off time interval t _OFF1 is between 50 seconds and 70 seconds, more preferably 60 seconds.

In another advantageous embodiment, when the washing machine 10 is in the standby state, if the first value L1 detected by the liquid level detector 100 satisfies the first predetermined condition, then keep supplying power to the liquid level detector 100 for all of the continuous standby state remaining duration.

In an advantageous embodiment, the method comprises: detecting or estimating, at the start of the standby state, an initial value L0 indicative of the quantity of liquid level in the washing tub 30; this initial value L0 may be, for example, when the washing machine 10 is The last value detected for the quantity indicating the liquid level before the standby state. In another advantageous embodiment, the starting value L0 may for example be estimated as a quantity indicative of the level of liquid which may remain in the washing tub 30 after the last discharge phase of the washing cycle, for example due to a specific layout of the discharge circuit 90 value. In this advantageous embodiment, the first value L1 is compared with the starting value L0, and if the difference between the first value L1 and the starting value L0 reaches or exceeds a predetermined second threshold L _thr2 , the discharge pump 92 is activated; thus , in this case, the first predetermined condition that the first value L1 must satisfy is related to its difference from the starting value L0 ; it is clear that this difference increases together with the leakage of one or more electronic valves 70 .

It is emphasized that, for example during the design of the washing machine 10, the predetermined second threshold value L _thr2 may be selected according to the specific size and/or shape of the washing tub 30 and/or the discharge circuit 90, in which case when the first value When the difference between L1 and the initial value L0 is lower than the second threshold L _thr2 , the liquid cannot overflow from the washing tub 30 .

For example, if the quantity indicative of the liquid level in the washing tub is the liquid level itself, the second threshold L _thr2 may be between 70 and 140 mm.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the method comprises supplying power to the liquid level detector 100 when the washing machine 10 is in standby and after supplying power to the liquid level detector 100 for a period of at least the first on-time interval t _ON1 Continue for the period of the second on time interval t _ON2 during which the liquid level detector 100 detects the second value L2 indicating the amount of the liquid level in the washing tub 30 . In this advantageous embodiment, the second value L2 is compared with the first value L1, and if the difference between the second value L2 and the first value L1 reaches or exceeds a predetermined third threshold L _thr3 , the discharge pump 92 is activated to extract from Wash tub 30 drains liquid, and/or generates an alarm, such as through a speaker (not shown). Therefore, in this case, the first predetermined condition that the first value L1 must satisfy is related to the difference between the second value L2 and the first value L1; increase together.

It is emphasized that, for example during the design of the washing machine 10, the predetermined third threshold value L _thr3 may be selected according to the specific size and/or shape of the washing tub 30 and/or the discharge circuit 90, in which case when the second value When the difference between L2 and the first value L1 is lower than the third threshold L _thr3 , the liquid cannot overflow from the washing tub 30 .

For example, if the quantity indicative of the liquid level in the washing tub is the liquid level itself, the third threshold L _thr3 may be between 50 and 100 mm.

In this advantageous embodiment, the stage of disconnecting the liquid level detector from the power supply for the first off time interval t _OFF1 is preferably between the stage of supplying power to the liquid level detector 100 for the first on time interval t _ON1 and The supply of power to the liquid level detector 100 is performed between the stages of the second on-time interval t _ON2 . Alternatively, in a further advantageous embodiment, between the phase of supplying power to the liquid level detector 100 for a first on time interval t _ON1 and the phase of supplying power to the liquid level detector 100 for a second on time interval t _ON2 The liquid level detector 100 is not disconnected from the power supply (ie, the liquid level detector 100 is continuously powered at least from the first on-time interval t _ON1 to the end of the second on-time interval t _ON2 ).

Preferably, when the washing machine 10 is in the standby state and after the stage of supplying power to the liquid level detector 100 for a second on-time interval t _ON2 , the method comprises the stage of: disconnecting the liquid level detector 100 from the power supply for a second - Turn off the time interval t _OFF2 to reduce power consumption. Preferably, the second off-time interval t _OFF2 is between 50 seconds and 70 seconds, more preferably 60 seconds.

In a preferred embodiment, when the washing machine 10 is in the standby state, the period of supplying power to the liquid level detector 100 for at least the first on-time interval t _ON1 is when a predetermined period has elapsed since the washing machine 10 has been placed in the standby state. Carried out after a first delay time _td1 during which the liquid level detector 100 is disconnected from the power supply; The bit detector 100 is disconnected from the power supply and then connected to the power supply so as to be powered only after a first delay time t _d1 .

Preferably, the first delay time t _d1 is between 30 seconds and 90 seconds, more preferably between 50 seconds and 70 seconds, even more preferably 60 seconds.

In a preferred embodiment, the stage of supplying power to the liquid level detector 100 for at least the second on-time interval t _ON2 is carried out after a predetermined second delay time t _D2 has elapsed since the washing machine 10 has been placed in the standby state. of. Preferably, the second opening time interval t _ON2 is between 30 seconds and 90 seconds, more preferably between 55 seconds and 85 seconds, even more preferably 70 seconds.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the phase of supplying power to the level detector for at least the first on-time interval t _ON1 is started simultaneously with placing the washing machine 10 in standby.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the liquid level detector 100 is powered for the entire duration of the standby state.

Preferably, the user interface 50 is disconnected from the power source during the standby state.

Preferably, when the washing machine 10 is in the standby state, the following three stages are repeated multiple times in this order:

- supplying power to the liquid level detector 100 for at least the first on-time interval t _ON1 ;

- during this first on-time interval t _ON1 , a first value L1 indicative of the amount of liquid level in the washing tub 30 is detected by the liquid level detector 100 ;

- disconnecting the level detector 100 from the power supply for a first off-time interval t _OFF1 .

Preferably, these three stages are repeated multiple times with predetermined time intervals.

Preferably, in this advantageous embodiment, the discharge pump 92 is activated if, during the repetition of these three phases, the first value L1 satisfies a first predetermined condition, for example it reaches or exceeds a predetermined first threshold L _thr1 .

In a further advantageous embodiment, the washing machine 10 comprises closure detection means (shown schematically as a rectangle 44 in FIG. 2 ), such as a sensor (eg a magnetic sensor), which is operatively connected to the control unit 200 and is configured to detect whether a door or porthole 4 is open or closed. In this advantageous embodiment, when the washing machine 10 is in standby and prior to the step of activating the drain pump 92 to drain liquid from the washing tub 30 and/or generating an alarm, the method according to the invention may advantageously comprise the following additional steps : if the first value L1 satisfies the first predetermined condition, then the closing detection device 44 detects whether the door or the porthole 4 is closed or opened, and if the door or the porthole 4 is closed, the first predetermined condition is used, and if the door or the porthole 4 is closed, the first predetermined condition is used. Different first predetermined conditions.

For example, if the first predetermined condition includes reaching or exceeding a predetermined first threshold L _thr1 , this predetermined first threshold L _thr1 may advantageously have a value of, for example, 200 mm when the door or porthole 4 is closed (indicating a displacement in the washing tub The amount is the liquid level itself), while having a different value of eg 140mm when the door or porthole 4 is open; in fact, if the door or porthole 4 is closed, the liquid cannot escape through the opening closed by the door or porthole 4, A higher value of the predetermined first threshold L _thr1 may therefore be used.

In a further advantageous embodiment in which the first predetermined condition is related to the difference between the first value L1 and the starting value L0 and in particular requires that the difference between the first value L1 and the starting value L0 reaches or exceeds a predetermined second threshold L _thr2 , the The predetermined second threshold value L _thr2 may advantageously have a value of eg 200 mm when the door or porthole 4 is closed (in case the quantity indicative of displacement in the wash tub is the liquid level itself) and when the door or porthole 4 is open For example a different value of 140 mm; in fact, if the door or porthole 4 is closed, liquid cannot escape via the opening closed by the door or porthole 4, so a higher value of the predetermined second threshold L _thr2 may be used.

In a further advantageous embodiment in which the first predetermined condition is related to the difference between the second value L2 and the first value L1 and in particular requires that the difference between the second value L2 and the first value L1 reaches or exceeds a predetermined third threshold L _thr3 , the The predetermined third threshold L _thr3 may advantageously have a value of for example 160 mm when the door or porthole 4 is closed (in case the quantity indicative of displacement in the wash tub is the liquid level itself) and with the door or porthole 4 open For example a different value of 100 mm; in fact, if the door or porthole 4 is closed, liquid cannot escape via the opening closed by the door or porthole 4, so the predetermined third threshold L _thr3 may have a higher level.

An advantageous example of a first flowchart 1000 illustrating an advantageous embodiment of the logical steps carried out by the control unit 200 for implementing a possible embodiment of the method according to the invention is presented in FIG. 3 .

The first flowchart 1000 starts with a first step 1001, namely, checking (advantageously via the control unit 200) whether the washing machine 10 is in standby mode; A step 1001, if it is "yes" (indicated by the letter "Y" in the figure), then proceed to the second step 1002, that is, supply power to the liquid level detector 100 and detect the liquid level in the washing tub 30 through the liquid level detector 100 water level (or better the first value L1 indicating the quantity of the liquid level), and then turn off the liquid level detector 100 (referred to as a pressure switch in FIG. 3) (third step 1003).

Then, carry out the fourth step 1004, that is, check whether the first off time interval t _OFF1 of the liquid level detector 100 has been reached (referred to as "off time" in Fig. 3); if "No", then repeat Fourth step 1004, if yes, supply power to the liquid level detector 100 again (fifth step 1005) for the second on-time interval t _ON2 (sixth step 1006, "on time"), and then check the washing tub 30 again The water level (or better, the second value L2 indicating the amount of the liquid level) (seventh step 1007).

If (eighth step 1008, option is "No") the liquid level has not increased beyond a certain threshold (or in other words, if the difference between L2 and L1 is lower than a third threshold), the flowchart returns to the third step 1003, and If (eighth step 1008, option "Yes") the increase in liquid level exceeds a certain threshold (or in other words, if the difference between L2 and L1 reaches or exceeds a third threshold L _thr3 ), an alarm is generated (referenced in FIG. 3 called warning) and operate the drain pump 92 to drain the water from the washing tub 30 (ninth step 1009), after which (the tenth step 1010) transmit the alarm to the user interface 50, or an external device (not shown) connected to the washing machine 10 ) APP, and the discharge continues until the wash tub 30 is completely emptied.

A further advantageous example of the logical steps performed by the control unit 200 for implementing a possible embodiment of the method according to the invention is shown in the second flowchart 2000 of FIG. 4 .

The second flowchart 2000 starts from the first step 2001, that is, check whether the washing machine 10 is in a standby state; if it is "No", then repeat the first step 2001, and if it is "Yes", then perform the second step 2002, namely , power is supplied to the liquid level detector 100, and the water level (or better, the first value L1 indicating the amount of the liquid level) in the washing tub 30 is detected.

Then, carry out the third step 2003, that is, check whether a certain time has elapsed; if it is "no", then repeat the third step 2003, if it is "yes", then check the water level in the washing tub 30 again (or better is the second value L2) indicating the quantity of the liquid level (fourth step 2004).

If (fifth step 2005, option is "No") the liquid level has not increased beyond a certain threshold (or in other words, if the difference between L2 and L1 is below a third threshold), then the second flowchart 2000 returns to the third step 2003, and if (the fifth step 2005, the option is "Yes") the liquid level increases beyond a certain threshold (or in other words, if the difference between L2 and L1 reaches or exceeds the third threshold L _thr3 ), an alarm is generated (in Fig. 4 is referred to as a warning) and operates the drain pump 92 to drain water from the washing tub 30 (sixth step 2006), after which (seventh step 2007) the alarm is transmitted to the user interface 50, or an external device connected to the washing machine 10 (not shown) APP, and the discharge continues until the wash tub 30 is completely emptied.

FIG. 5 shows an advantageous example of an alternative logical step 3000, in which the washing machine 10 includes a closing detection device 44 (which is operatively connected to the control unit 200 and configured to detect whether the door or porthole 4 is open or closed). In an embodiment, this alternative logical step may be performed in the first flowchart 1000 or the second flowchart 2000 as an alternative to steps 1001 and 2001, respectively.

The alternative logical steps 3000 advantageously include:

The first step 3001, that is, check whether the washing machine 10 is in a standby state; if it is "no", then repeat the first step 3001, if it is "yes", then perform the second step 3011, that is, close the detection device 44 to Check that the door or porthole 4 is closed.

If "No" (ie door or porthole 4 is open), then a low threshold level (eg L _thr1 , L _thr2 or L _th3 ) is selected and used (step 3012), while if "Yes" (ie door or porthole 4 is closed ) then select and use a high threshold level (eg L _thr1 , L _thr2 or L _th3 ) (step 3013), because in this case the liquid cannot escape through the opening closed by the door or porthole 4, thus resulting in a higher level of overflow high.

The flowchart may then continue with step 1002 or 2002 respectively, depending on whether it is the first flowchart 1000 or the second flowchart 2000 .

It can thus be seen how the proposed aim and objects are achieved by the present invention, providing a method for operating a washing machine, such as a washing machine or a dishwasher, which method comprises: activating a liquid level when the washing machine is in standby detector; and if the liquid level rises abnormally, activates the discharge pump and/or generates an alarm, thereby preventing the risk of liquid overflow even in standby.

Furthermore, the particular embodiment of only supplying power to the level detector after a predetermined first delay time t _d1 has elapsed since the washing machine has been placed on standby allows to maintain reduced energy consumption while the washing machine is on standby.

Claims (32)

1. A method for operating a washing machine (10), the washing machine comprising: a washing tub (30); one or more electrovalves (70) through which liquid is admitted into said washing tub (30); a liquid level detector (100) configured for detecting an amount indicative of a liquid level within the washing tub (30); a drain pump (92) configured for draining liquid from the washing tub (30); a plurality of further electrical loads (50, 51, 52, 53); a control unit (200) configured for controlling the one or more electronic valves (70), the liquid level detector (100), the drain pump (92), and the plurality of further electrical loads (50, 51, 52, 53), wherein the method comprises: placing the washing machine (10) in a standby state in which the one or more electronic valves (70) and one or more of the plurality of further electrical loads (50, 51, 52, 53) are disconnected from the power supply,

it is characterized in that the preparation method is characterized in that,

the method comprises the following steps:

-when the washing machine (10) is in the standby state, supplying the liquidThe bit detector (100) is powered for at least a first on-time interval (t) _ON1 )；

-during said first on-time interval (t) _ON1 ) During which a first value (L1) indicative of the amount of liquid level inside the washing tub (30) is detected by the liquid level detector (100);

-activating said drain pump (92) to drain liquid from said washing tub (30) and/or generating an alarm if said first value (L1) satisfies a first predetermined condition.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first predetermined condition on the first value (L1) comprises reaching or exceeding a predetermined first threshold value (L;) _thr1 )。

3. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said first opening time interval (t) is a time interval (t;) of the preceding claims _ON1 ) Between 5 seconds and 15 seconds.

4. Method according to claim 3, wherein said first on-time interval (t;) _ON1 ) It was 10 seconds.

5. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising powering said level detector (100) for at least a first on-time interval (t) when said washing machine (10) is in said standby state and when power is supplied to said level detector (10) _ON1 ) After said phase of (a), the following phases are carried out:

-disconnecting the liquid level detector (100) from a power supply for a first off-time interval (t) _OFF1 )。

6. Method according to claim 5, wherein said first switch-off time interval (t) _OFF1 ) Between 50 seconds and 70 seconds.

7. Method according to claim 6, wherein said first off time interval (t) is _OFF1 ) It is 60 seconds.

8. The method according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising

-detecting or estimating a starting value (L0) indicative of the quantity of liquid level inside the washing tub (30) at the start of the standby state;

-comparing the first value (L1) with the starting value (L0);

-if the difference between the first value (L1) and the starting value (L0) reaches or exceeds a predetermined second threshold value (L;) _thr2 ) The drain pump (92) is activated.

9. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising powering said level detector (100) for at least a first on-time interval (t) when said washing machine (10) is in said standby state and when power is supplied to said level detector (10) _ON1 ) After said phase of (a), the following phases are carried out:

-powering said level detector (100) for a second on-time interval (t) when said washing machine (10) is in said standby state _ON2 )；

-during said second on-time interval (t) _ON2 ) During which a second value (L2) indicative of the amount of liquid level inside the washing tub (30) is detected by the liquid level detector (100);

-comparing said second value (L2) with said first value (L1);

-if the difference between said second value (L2) and said first value (L1) reaches or exceeds a predetermined third threshold value (L;) _thr3 ) Activating the drain pump (92) and/or generating an alarm.

10. Method according to claim 9 when depending on one or more of claims 5 to 7, wherein the level detector is disconnected from the power supply for a first off time interval (t |) _OFF1 ) Is supplying power to the liquid level detector (100) for a first on-time interval (t) _ON1 ) And supplying power to the liquid level detector (100) for a second on-time interval (t) _ON2 ) Between said stages.

11. Method according to claim 9 or 10, comprising powering said level detector (100) for a second on-time interval (t) when said washing machine (10) is in said standby state and at power supply to said level detector _ON2 ) After said phase of (a), the following phases are carried out:

-disconnecting the liquid level detector from the power supply for a second off-time interval (t) _OFF2 )。

12. Method according to claim 11, wherein said second switch-off time interval (t) _OFF2 ) Between 50 seconds and 70 seconds.

13. Method according to claim 12, wherein said second switch-off time interval (t) _OFF2 ) It was 60 seconds.

14. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said level detector (100) is powered for at least a first on-time interval (t) when said washing machine (10) is in said standby state _ON1 ) Is after a predetermined first delay time (t) has elapsed since the washing machine (10) has been put into the standby state _d1 ) Thereafter, the liquid level detector (100) is disconnected from the power source during the predetermined first delay time.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the first delay time (t) _d1 ) Between 30 seconds and 90 seconds.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the first delay time (t) _d1 ) It is 60 seconds.

17. Method according to one or more of claims 1 to 13, wherein the liquid level detector (100) is powered for at least a first on-time interval (t |) _ON1 ) Is associated with placing said washing machine (10) in saidThe standby state is started simultaneously.

18. Method according to claim 9 or when dependent on claim 9, wherein, when the washing machine (10) is in the standby state, the level detector (100) is powered for at least a second on-time interval (t £ t) _ON2 ) Is after a predetermined second delay time (t) has elapsed since the washing machine has been placed in the standby state _d2 ) And then the process is carried out.

19. A method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said plurality of further electrical loads (50, 51, 52, 53) comprises a user interface (50), wherein said user interface (50) is disconnected from a power supply when said washing machine (10) is in said standby state.

20. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein, when said washing machine (10) is in said standby condition, once said draining pump (92) has been activated to drain liquid from said washing tub (30), said draining pump (92) remains activated until the value detected by said level detector (100) indicating the amount of liquid level inside said washing tub (30) satisfies a second predetermined condition and/or lasts for a predetermined activation time (t ™) _act )。

21. A method as claimed in one or more of the preceding claims, wherein, when the washing machine (10) is in the standby state, the discharge pump (92) is powered for the entire duration of the standby state.

22. A method as claimed in one or more of claims 1 to 20, wherein, when said washing machine (10) is in said standby state, said discharge pump (92) is powered only when said first value (L1) satisfies said first predetermined condition.

23. Method according to claim 5 or when dependent on claim 5, wherein, when the washing machine (10) is in the standby state, the following three phases are repeated a plurality of times in this order;

-supplying power to the liquid level detector (100) for at least a first on-time interval (t |) _ON1 )；

-during said first on-time interval (t) _ON1 ) During which a first value (L1) indicative of the amount of liquid level inside the washing tub (30) is detected by the liquid level detector (100);

-disconnecting the liquid level detector from the power supply for a first off time interval (t) _OFF1 )。

24. Method according to claim 23, wherein said three phases are repeated a plurality of times at predetermined time intervals when said washing machine (10) is in said standby state.

25. Method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein, when said washing machine (10) is in said standby condition, during the repetition of said three phases, said drain pump (92) is activated if said first level (L1) satisfies said first predetermined condition.

26. Method according to claim 1, wherein, when said washing machine (10) is in said standby state, if said first value (L1) detected by said level detector (100) satisfies said first predetermined condition, said level detector (100) is kept powered for the entire remaining duration of said standby state.

27. The method of claim 1, comprising: -powering the liquid level detector (100) for the whole duration of the standby state.

28. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said washing machine (10) comprises a door or porthole (4) configured to selectively close said washing tub (30), and closing detection means (44) operatively connected to said control unit (200), said closing detection means being configured for detecting whether said door or porthole (4) is open or closed, wherein, if said first value (L1) satisfies a first predetermined condition, said method comprises, when said washing machine (10) is in said standby state and before said step of activating said draining pump (92) to drain liquid from said washing tub (30) and/or generate an alarm, the steps of:

-detecting by means of said closing detection means (44) whether said door or porthole (4) is closed or open, and using a first predetermined condition if said door or porthole (4) is closed and a different first predetermined condition if said door or porthole (4) is open.

29. Method according to claim 28 when depending on claim 2 or on claim 2, wherein said predetermined first threshold value (L) is determined when said door or porthole (4) is closed _thr1 ) Above the first threshold value when the door or porthole (4) is open.

30. Method according to claim 28 when dependent on claim 8 or on claim 8, wherein said predetermined second threshold value (L) is said when said door or porthole (4) is closed _thr2 ) Above the second threshold value when the door or porthole (4) is open.

31. Method according to claim 28 when depending on claim 9 or when depending on claim 9, wherein said predetermined third threshold value (L) is said when said door or porthole (4) is closed _thr3 ) Above the third threshold value when the door or porthole (4) is open.

32. A washing machine (10) comprising:

-a washing tub (30);

-one or more electrovalves (70) through which liquid is admitted into said washing tub (30);

-a liquid level detector (100) configured for detecting a liquid level within the washing tub (30);

-a drain pump (92) configured for draining liquid from the washing tub (30);

a plurality of further electrical loads (50, 51, 52, 53),

-a control unit (200) configured for controlling the liquid level detector (100), the drain pump (92), and the plurality of further electrical loads (50, 51, 52, 53),

it is characterized in that the preparation method is characterized in that,

the control unit (200) is configured for controlling the one or more electronic valves (70), the liquid level detector (100), the drain pump (92), and the plurality of further electrical loads (50, 51, 52, 53) in a manner to implement the method according to one or more of the preceding claims.

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