US20230134144A1 - Systems and methods for adjusting a washing operation based on feedback from a drying operation - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of operating a laundry treatment assembly including a washing machine appliance and a dryer appliance includes performing a drying operation in the dryer appliance, receiving feedback regarding a performance of the drying operation, adjusting one or more parameters relating to a washing operation in the washing machine appliance, and incorporating the one or more adjusted parameters into a subsequent washing operation.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The present subject matter relates generally to laundry treatment appliances, and more particularly to optimizing operating parameters of washing machine appliances.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• Conventional laundry treatment appliances perform a washing operation and/or a drying operation, typically in succession. For instance, a washing machine appliance may perform the washing operation and the laundry load may be transferred to a dryer appliance to perform the drying operation. The washing operation may incorporate a predetermined set of parameters, including one or more cycles of washing, rinsing, spinning, and the like. Similarly, the drying operation may incorporate a predetermined set of parameters, including a cycle time, an operational temperature, and a requested dryness level. Users of these laundry treatment appliances may wish to modify one or more of these parameters in order to increase a washing efficiency, a drying efficiency, or a total length of time for each of the washing operation and the drying operation
• For instance, certain cycles within the washing operation may be adjusted to better prepare the laundry load for the drying operation and subsequently reduce the drying time. Currently, users typically increase a total time or a level of heat of the drying operation, which can damage certain laundry loads. Thus, further improvements are necessary to properly assess and manipulate the set of washing parameters to achieve a desirable total washing and drying time.
• Accordingly, a laundry treatment appliance or assembly that obviates one or more of the above-described drawbacks would be beneficial. Particularly, a method of operating a laundry treatment appliance utilizing user feedback would be useful.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
• Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.
• In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating a laundry treatment assembly is provided. The laundry treatment assembly may include a dryer appliance and a washing machine appliance. The method may include performing a drying operation in the dryer appliance; receiving user feedback regarding the drying operation upon completion of the drying operation; evaluating a spin cycle of a most recently performed washing operation via the washing machine appliance upon receiving the user feedback, the spin cycle being performed according to a first set of parameters; adjusting one or more parameters of the first set of parameters based on the user feedback to generate a second set of parameters; and incorporating the second set of parameters into a spin cycle of a subsequent washing operation within the washing machine appliance.
• In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry treatment assembly is provided. The laundry treatment assembly may include a washing machine appliance comprising a tub, a wash basket rotatably provided within the tub, and a washing controller configured to control a washing operation within the washing machine appliance; a dryer appliance comprising a drum and a dryer controller configured to control a drying operation within the dryer appliance; and a wireless communication module provided within one of the washing machine appliance or the dryer appliance, the wireless communication module configured to allow communication between the washing machine appliance, the dryer appliance, and a mobile device. The dryer controller may be configured to perform a series of operations. The series of operations may include performing the drying operation in the dryer appliance; receiving user feedback regarding the drying operation upon completion of the drying operation; evaluating a most recently performed washing operation via the washing machine appliance upon receiving the user feedback, the most recently performed washing operation including a spin cycle performed according to a first set of parameters; adjusting one or more parameters of the first set of parameters based on the user feedback to generate a second set of parameters; and incorporating the second set of parameters into a subsequent washing operation within the washing machine appliance.
• These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.
• FIG.1 provides a schematic representation of a laundry appliance system that includes a washing machine appliance, a dryer appliance, and an external communication system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.
• FIG.2 provides a perspective view of the exemplary washing machine appliance ofFIG.1 with the door of the exemplary washing machine appliance shown in an open position.
• FIG.3 provides a side cross-sectional view of the exemplary washing machine appliance ofFIG.1.
• FIG.4 provides a perspective view of the exemplary dryer appliance ofFIG.1 with portions of a cabinet of the dryer appliance removed to reveal certain components of the dryer appliance.
• FIG.5 provides a method of operating a dryer appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.
• Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
• FIG.1 illustrates alaundry appliance system50 according to exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter. As shown, laundry appliance system orassembly50 generally includes awashing machine appliance52 and adryer appliance54, for washing and drying clothes, respectively. Each ofwashing machine appliance52 anddryer appliance54 will be described below according to exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter. Specifically, these figures illustrate various views ofwashing machine52 anddryer appliance54 in order to facilitate discussion regarding the use and operation oflaundry system50. However, it should be appreciated that the specific appliance configurations illustrated and described are only exemplary, and the scope of the present subject matter is not limited to the configurations set forth herein. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that like reference numerals may be used to refer to the same or similar features betweenwashing machine52 anddryer appliance54. Further still, it should be appreciated that certain embodiments of the present disclosure may be performed in a combined washing machine/dryer (e.g., as a single unit).
• Referring still toFIG.1, a schematic diagram of anexternal communication system60 will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. In general,external communication system60 is configured for permitting interaction, data transfer, and other communications between and amongwashing machine52,dryer appliance54, and/or a user of such appliances. For example, this communication may be used to provide and receive operating parameters, cycle settings, performance characteristics, user preferences, or any other suitable information for improved performance oflaundry system50.
• As illustrated, each ofwashing machine appliance52 anddryer appliance54 may include a controller62 (described in more detail below).External communication system60permits controllers62 ofwasher appliance52 anddryer appliance54 to communicate with external devices either directly or through anetwork64. For example, a consumer may use aconsumer device66 to communicate directly withwashing machine52 and/ordryer appliance54. Alternatively, these appliances may include user interfaces for receiving such input (described below). For example,consumer devices66 may be in direct or indirect communication withwashing machine52 anddryer appliance54, e.g., directly through a local area network (LAN), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc. or indirectly throughnetwork64. In general,consumer device66 may be any suitable device for providing and/or receiving communications or commands from a user. In this regard,consumer device66 may include, for example, a personal phone, a tablet, a laptop computer, or another mobile device.
• In addition, aremote server68 may be in communication withwashing machine52,dryer appliance54, and/orconsumer device66 throughnetwork64. In this regard, for example,remote server68 may be a cloud-basedserver68, and is thus located at a distant location, such as in a separate state, country, etc. In general, communication between theremote server68 and the client devices may be carried via a network interface using any type of wireless connection, using a variety of communication protocols (e.g. TCP/IP, HTTP, SMTP, FTP), encodings or formats (e.g. HTML, XML), and/or protection schemes (e.g. VPN, secure HTTP, SSL).
• In general,network64 can be any type of communication network. For example,network64 can include one or more of a wireless network, a wired network, a personal area network, a local area network, a wide area network, the internet, a cellular network, etc. According to an exemplary embodiment,consumer device66 may communicate with aremote server68 overnetwork64, such as the internet, to provide user inputs, transfer operating parameters or performance characteristics, etc. In addition,consumer device66 andremote server68 may communicate withwashing machine52 anddryer appliance54 to communicate similar information.
• External communication system60 is described herein according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. However, it should be appreciated that the exemplary functions and configurations ofexternal communication system60 provided herein are used only as examples to facilitate description of aspects of the present subject matter. System configurations may vary, other communication devices may be used to communicate directly or indirectly with one or more laundry appliances, other communication protocols and steps may be implemented, etc. These variations and modifications are contemplated as within the scope of the present subject matter.
• Referring now also toFIGS.2 and3,washing machine appliance52 will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. Specifically, these figures illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a vertical axiswashing machine appliance52. Specifically,FIGS.1 and2 illustrate perspective views ofwashing machine appliance52 in a closed and an open position, respectively.FIG.3 provides a side cross-sectional view ofwashing machine appliance52.Washing machine appliance52 generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is generally defined.
• While described in the context of a specific embodiment of vertical axiswashing machine appliance52, it should be appreciated that vertical axiswashing machine appliance52 is provided by way of example only. It will be understood that aspects of the present subject matter may be used in any other suitable washing machine appliance, such as a horizontal axis washing machine appliance. Indeed, modifications and variations may be made towashing machine appliance52, including different configurations, different appearances, and/or different features while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.
• Washing machine appliance52 has acabinet102 that extends between atop portion104 and abottom portion106 along the vertical direction V, between a first side (left) and a second side (right) along the lateral direction L, and between a front and a rear along the transverse direction T. As best shown inFIG.3, awash tub108 is positioned withincabinet102, defines awash chamber110, and is generally configured for retaining wash fluids during an operating cycle.Washing machine appliance52 further includes a primary dispenser112 (FIG.2) for dispensing wash fluid intowash tub108. The term “wash fluid” refers to a liquid used for washing and/or rinsing articles during an operating cycle and may include any combination of water, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, and other wash additives or treatments.
• In addition,washing machine appliance52 includes awash basket114 that is positioned withinwash tub108 and generally defines anopening116 for receipt of articles for washing. More specifically, washbasket114 is rotatably mounted withinwash tub108 such that it is rotatable about an axis of rotation A. According to the illustrated embodiment, the axis of rotation A is substantially parallel to the vertical direction V. In this regard,washing machine appliance52 is generally referred to as a “vertical axis” or “top load”washing machine appliance52. However, it should be appreciated that aspects of the present subject matter may be used within the context of a horizontal axis or front load washing machine appliance as well. As used herein, terms of approximation, such as “approximately,” “substantially,” or “about,” refer to being within a ten percent margin of error.
• As illustrated,cabinet102 ofwashing machine appliance52 has atop panel118.Top panel118 defines an opening (FIG.2) that coincides with opening116 ofwash basket114 to permit a user access to washbasket114.Washing machine appliance52 further includes adoor120 which is rotatably mounted totop panel118 to permit selective access toopening116. In particular,door120 selectively rotates between the closed position (as shown inFIGS.1 and3) and the open position (as shown inFIG.2). In the closed position,door120 inhibits access to washbasket114. Conversely, in the open position, a user can access washbasket114. Awindow122 indoor120 permits viewing ofwash basket114 whendoor120 is in the closed position, e.g., during operation ofwashing machine appliance52.Door120 also includes ahandle124 that, e.g., a user may pull and/or lift when opening and closingdoor120. Further, althoughdoor120 is illustrated as mounted totop panel118,door120 may alternatively be mounted tocabinet102 or any other suitable support.
• As best shown inFIGS.2 and3, washbasket114 further defines a plurality ofperforations126 to facilitate fluid communication between an interior ofwash basket114 and washtub108. In this regard, washbasket114 is spaced apart fromwash tub108 to define a space for wash fluid to escapewash chamber110. During a spin cycle, wash fluid within articles of clothing and withinwash chamber110 is urged throughperforations126 wherein it may collect in asump128 defined bywash tub108.Washing machine appliance52 further includes a pump assembly130 (FIG.3) that is located beneathwash tub108 and washbasket114 for gravity assisted flow when drainingwash tub108.
• An impeller or agitation element132 (FIG.3), such as a vane agitator, impeller, auger, oscillatory basket mechanism, or some combination thereof is disposed inwash basket114 to impart an oscillatory motion to articles and liquid inwash basket114. More specifically,agitation element132 extends intowash basket114 and assists agitation of articles disposed withinwash basket114 during operation ofwashing machine appliance52, e.g., to facilitate improved cleaning. In different embodiments,agitation element132 includes a single action element (i.e., oscillatory only), a double action element (oscillatory movement at one end, single direction rotation at the other end) or a triple action element (oscillatory movement plus single direction rotation at one end, single direction rotation at the other end). As illustrated inFIG.3,agitation element132 and washbasket114 are oriented to rotate about axis of rotation A (which is substantially parallel to vertical direction V).
• As best illustrated inFIG.3,washing machine appliance52 includes adrive assembly138 in mechanical communication withwash basket114 to selectively rotate wash basket114 (e.g., during an agitation or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance52). In addition,drive assembly138 may also be in mechanical communication withagitation element132. In this manner, drive assembly138 may be configured for selectively rotating oroscillating wash basket114 and/oragitation element132 during various operating cycles ofwashing machine appliance52.
• More specifically, drive assembly138 may generally include one or more of adrive motor140 and atransmission assembly142, e.g., such as a clutch assembly, for engaging and disengagingwash basket114 and/oragitation element132. According to the illustrated embodiment, drivemotor140 is a brushless DC electric motor, e.g., a pancake motor. However, according to alternative embodiments, drivemotor140 may be any other suitable type or configuration of motor. For example, drivemotor140 may be an AC motor, an induction motor, a permanent magnet synchronous motor, or any other suitable type of motor. In addition,drive assembly138 may include any other suitable number, types, and configurations of support bearings or drive mechanisms.
• Referring still toFIGS.1 through3, acontrol panel150 with at least one input selector152 (FIG.1) extends fromtop panel118.Control panel150 andinput selector152 collectively form a user interface input for operator selection of machine cycles and features. Adisplay154 ofcontrol panel150 indicates selected features, operation mode, a countdown timer, and/or other items of interest to appliance users regarding operation.
• Operation ofwashing machine appliance52 is controlled by a controller orprocessing device62 that is operatively coupled to controlpanel150 for user manipulation to select washing machine cycles and features. In response to user manipulation ofcontrol panel150,controller62 operates the various components ofwashing machine appliance52 to execute selected machine cycles and features. According to an exemplary embodiment,controller62 may include a memory and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with methods described herein. Alternatively,controller62 may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and/or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.
• Control panel150 and other components ofwashing machine appliance52 may be in communication withcontroller62 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses. Additionally or alternatively,washing machine appliance52 may include a door sensor ordoor switch156.Door sensor156 may be provided at ornear opening116 and may detect an opening or a closing ofdoor120. For instance,door sensor156 may be a magnetic sensor, an optic sensor, a Hall sensor, a reed sensor, or the like. It should be noted that one or more sensors may be included, and that any combination of sensors or switches may be incorporated asdoor sensor156.
• During operation ofwashing machine appliance52, laundry items are loaded intowash basket114 throughopening116, and washing operation is initiated through operator manipulation ofinput selectors152. Washbasket114 is filled with water and detergent and/or other fluid additives viaprimary dispenser112. One or more valves can be controlled bywashing machine appliance52 to provide for fillingwash tub108 and washbasket114 to the appropriate level for the amount (or number) of articles being washed and/or rinsed. By way of example for a wash mode, once washbasket114 is properly filled with fluid, the contents ofwash basket114 can be agitated (e.g., withagitation element132 as discussed previously) for washing of laundry items inwash basket114.
• More specifically, referring again toFIG.3, a water fill process will be described according to an exemplary embodiment. As illustrated,washing machine appliance52 includes awater supply conduit160 that provides fluid communication between a water supply source162 (such as a municipal water supply) and adischarge nozzle164 for directing a flow of water intowash chamber110. In addition,washing machine appliance52 includes a water fill valve orwater control valve166 which is operably coupled towater supply conduit160 and communicatively coupled tocontroller62. In this manner,controller62 may regulate the operation ofwater control valve166 to regulate the amount of water withinwash tub108. In addition,washing machine appliance52 may include one ormore pressure sensors170 for detecting the amount of water and or clothes withinwash tub108. For example,pressure sensor170 may be operably coupled to a side oftub108 for detecting the weight ofwash tub108, whichcontroller62 may use to determine a volume of water inwash chamber110 and a subwasher load weight.
• Afterwash tub108 is filled and the agitation phase of the wash cycle is completed, washbasket114 can be drained, e.g., bydrain pump assembly130. Laundry articles can then be rinsed by again adding fluid to washbasket114 depending on the specifics of the cleaning cycle selected by a user. The impeller oragitation element132 may again provide agitation withinwash basket114. One or more spin cycles may also be used as part of the cleaning process. In particular, a spin cycle may be applied after the wash cycle and/or after the rinse cycle in order to wring wash fluid from the articles being washed. During a spin cycle, washbasket114 is rotated at relatively high speeds to help wring fluid from the laundry articles throughperforations126. After articles disposed inwash basket114 are cleaned and/or washed, the user can remove the articles fromwash basket114, e.g., by reaching intowash basket114 throughopening116.
• Referring now toFIG.4, a perspective view ofdryer appliance54 is provided with a portion of a cabinet orhousing202 ofdryer appliance54 removed in order to show certain components ofdryer appliance54. While described in the context of a specific embodiment ofdryer appliance54, using the teachings disclosed herein it will be understood thatdryer appliance54 is provided by way of example only. Other dryer appliances having different appearances and different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well.Dryer appliance54 defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T. The vertical direction V, lateral direction L, and transverse direction T are mutually perpendicular and form an orthogonal direction system.
• Cabinet202 includes afront panel204, arear panel206, a pair ofside panels208 spaced apart from each other by front andrear panels204 and206, abottom panel210, and atop cover212. Withincabinet202 is a drum orcontainer216 mounted for rotation about a substantially horizontal axis, e.g., that is parallel or substantially parallel to the lateraldirection L. Drum216 defines achamber214 for receipt of articles, e.g., clothing, linen, etc., for drying.Drum216 extends between a front portion and a back portion, e.g., along the lateral direction L.
• Amotor220 is configured forrotating drum216 about the horizontal axis, e.g., via a pulley and a belt (not shown).Drum216 is generally cylindrical in shape, having an outer cylindrical wall or cylinder and a front flange or wall that defines anentry222 ofdrum216, e.g., at the front portion ofdrum216, for loading and unloading of articles into and out ofchamber214 ofdrum216. A plurality of tumblingribs224 are provided withinchamber214 ofdrum216 to lift articles therein and then allow such articles to tumble back to a bottom ofdrum216 asdrum216 rotates.Drum216 also includes a back or rear wall, e.g., such thatdrum216 is rotatable on its rear wall as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Aduct226 is mounted to the rear wall ofdrum216 and receives heated air that has been heated by a heating assembly orsystem240.
• Motor220 is also in mechanical communication with anair handler230 such thatmotor220 rotatesair handler230, e.g., a centrifugal fan.Air handler230 is configured for drawing air throughchamber214 ofdrum216, e.g., in order to dry articles located therein as discussed in greater detail below. In alternative exemplary embodiments,dryer appliance54 may include an additional motor (not shown) for rotatingair handler230 independently ofdrum216.
• Drum216 is configured to receive heated air that has been heated by aheating assembly240, e.g., in order to dry damp articles disposed withinchamber214 ofdrum216.Heating assembly240 includes a heating element (not shown), such as a gas burner or an electrical resistance heating element, for heating air. As discussed above, during operation ofdryer appliance54,motor220 rotatesdrum216 andair handler230 such thatair handler230 draws air throughchamber214 ofdrum216 whenmotor220 rotates. In particular, ambient air (identified herein generally by reference numeral242) entersheating assembly240 via anentrance244 due toair handler230 urging such ambient air intoentrance244. Such ambient air is heated withinheating assembly240 and exitsheating assembly240 asheated air242.Air handler230 draws such heated air throughduct226 to drum216. The heated air entersdrum216 through anoutlet246 ofduct226 positioned at the rear wall ofdrum216.
• Withinchamber214, the heated air can accumulate moisture, e.g., from damp articles disposed withinchamber214. In turn,air handler230 draws humid air through atrap duct248 which contains a screen filter (not shown) which traps lint particles. Such humid air then passes throughtrap duct248 andair handler230 before entering anexhaust conduit250. Fromexhaust conduit250, such humid air passes out ofdryer appliance54 through avent252 defined bycabinet202. After the clothing articles have been dried, they are removed from thedrum216 viaentry222. Adoor260 provides for closing or accessingdrum216 throughentry222.
• Auser interface panel270 is positioned on a cabinet backsplash and includes acycle selector knob272 that is in communication with a processing device or controller (such as a controller62). Signals generated incontroller62 operatemotor220, air hander,230, andheating assembly240 in response to the position of selector knobs272.User interface panel270 may further conclude additional indicators, a display screen, a touch screen interface174, etc. for providing information to a user of thedryer appliance54 and receiving suitable operational feedback. Alternatively, a touch screen type interface, knobs, sliders, buttons, speech recognition, etc., mounted to cabinet backsplash or at any other suitable location to permit a user to input control commands fordryer appliance54 and/orcontroller62.
• Controller62 may include memory and one or more processing devices such as microprocessors, CPUs or the like, such as general or special purpose microprocessors operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with operation ofdryer appliance54. The memory can represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. The processor executes programming instructions stored in the memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively,controller62 may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and/or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.
• In general,controller62 is in operative communication with various components ofdryer appliance54. In particular,controller62 is in operative communication withmotor220 andheating assembly240. Thus, upon receiving an activation signal fromcycle selector knob272,controller62 can activatemotor220 to rotatedrum216 andair handler230.Controller62 can also activateheating assembly240 in order to generate heated air fordrum216, e.g., in the manner described above.
• Controller62 is also in communication with a thermal ortemperature sensor280, e.g., a thermocouple or thermistor.Temperature sensor280 is configured for measuring a temperature of heated air withinduct226.Temperature sensor280 can be positioned at any suitable location withindryer appliance54. For example,temperature sensor280 may be positioned within or onduct226.Controller62 can receive a signal fromtemperature sensor280 that corresponds to a temperature measurement of heated air withinduct226, e.g., a temperature measurement of heatedair exiting duct226 atoutlet246.
• Now that the construction ofsystem50,washing machine appliance52,dryer appliance54, andexternal communication system60 have been presented according to exemplary embodiments, anexemplary method300 of operating a system of laundry appliances will be described. Although the discussion below refers to theexemplary method300 ofoperating system50 to adjust the operation ofwashing machine appliance52, one skilled in the art will appreciate that theexemplary method300 is applicable to the monitoring and control of any suitable system of laundry appliances. In exemplary embodiments, the various method steps as disclosed herein may be performed bycontrollers62,remote server68, and/or a separate, dedicated controller.
• Referring generally toFIG.5, a method of operating a laundry treatment assembly (e.g., laundry system50) will be described in detail. According to exemplary embodiments, a user may perform a washing operation within a washing machine appliance (e.g., washing machine appliance52). The washing operation may be similar to the washing operation described above. For instance, the washing operation may include a supply cycle for supplying water and detergent to the basket, an agitation cycle, a drain cycle, a rinse cycle, and one or more spin cycles. In particular, a final spin cycle may be performed at the end of the washing operation. The final spin cycle may be performed according to a first set of parameters. For instance, the first set of parameters may include a rotational speed of a drum (e.g., wash basket114) of the washing machine appliance, a length of time of the spin cycle, etc. The controller (e.g., controller62) may register the first set of parameters as a first set of parameters of a most recently performed washing operation. It should be noted thatmethod300 may or may not include the pre-step of performing the washing operation. For instance, the controller may have a set of parameters already stored within its memory from a previous washing operation.
• Atstep302,method300 may include performing a drying operation within the dryer appliance. In detail, a drying operation may be performed on a laundry load within a dryer appliance (e.g., dryer appliance54). As discussed above, the dryer appliance may be part of a laundry treatment assembly or system, or may be part of a combination washing machine/dryer appliance. The drying operation may be performed according to a set of drying parameters. For instance, the user may insert the laundry load into a drum (e.g., drum216) of the dryer appliance to be dried. The user may then select one or more options, e.g., from a user interface panel (e.g., user interface panel270). Additionally or alternatively, the user may select one or more options for the drying operation from a mobile device in wireless communication with the dryer appliance.
• In detail, the user may select a dryness level. The dryness level may be selected from a plurality of options, such as very dry, more dry, normal, less dry, way less dry, or the like. Additionally or alternatively, the user may select a length of time for which the drying operation is to perform. The length of time may be presented in predetermined increments. The user may also select a temperature level for the air to be supplied to the drum for the drying operation. For instance, the temperature (or heat level) may be selected from one of no heat, low heat, medium heat, high heat, or the like. Finally, the user may select a predetermined drying operation having preselected parameters. In some embodiments, the dryer appliance may include one or more sensors therein (e.g., humidity sensors, temperature sensors, etc.) which may provide information for the controller to determine when the laundry load has reached an appropriate or desired dryness level. These drying operations may be referred to as “smart drying operations.”
• Atstep304,method300 may include receiving user feedback regarding the drying operation. In detail, the controller (e.g., of the laundry system) may register one or more pieces of data indicating user feedback of the drying operation. The data may be regarded as active feedback or passive feedback. For instance, according to at least one embodiment, the controller may transmit a feedback request to the user. The feedback request may be displayed to the user on the user interface panel. Additionally or alternatively, the feedback request may be transmitted to one or more mobile devices of the user (e.g., a mobile phone, a smartwatch, a tablet, etc.). According to at least one embodiment, the user receives a push notification from a mobile application registered to the dryer appliance.
• The feedback request may include a prompt to provide a rating of the drying operation. For instance, the prompt may include a scale of dryness observed by the user upon completion of the drying operation. The scale may include, for example, choices such as way too dry, too dry, acceptable, too damp, way too damp, or the like. The user may thus input the level of dryness experienced. This may be considered active user feedback regarding the drying operation.
• In some embodiments, the controller may collect passive user feedback. In detail, the passive user feedback may be determined from inputs (e.g., physical inputs) from the user to the dryer appliance during the drying operation. In at least one example, the controller may monitor an opening and a closing of the door to the dryer appliance during the drying operation. The controller may detect (e.g., via a door sensor such as door sensor156) that the user opens and closes the door one or more times during the drying operation. From this information, the controller may conclude that the user is checking the dampness or dryness level of the laundry load within the dryer appliance. Accordingly, the controller may interpret this feedback as dissatisfaction of the drying operation. This may be referred to as passive user feedback.
• According to another example, the controller may monitor the user's inputs to the user interface (e.g., on the dryer appliance or through a mobile application). The inputs may be associated particularly with the drying operation. For instance, the controller may determine that the user regularly presses a button requesting a “more dry” level for the laundry load. Additionally or alternatively, the controller may register inputs such as temperature increases, time increases or decreases, or the like. In another example, during the smart drying operation, the user may press a button for “less time.” Since the smart drying operation has predefined inputs, this time selection may have no effect (e.g., may not reduce the actual run time of the drying operation). Thus, the controller may infer that the user in dissatisfied with the length of time of the drying operation. It should be understood that the user feedback described herein (active and passive) is not exhaustive, and that additional types or methods of receiving user feedback or feedback input would be understood.
• Atstep306,method300 may include evaluating a most recently performed spin cycle upon receiving the user feedback. The most recently performed spin cycle may be defined by a first set of parameters (e.g., as described above). In detail, the most recently performed spin cycle may be the final spin cycle performed in a most recent washing operation. As described above, the washing machine appliance may perform the washing operation prior to the dryer appliance performing the drying operation. Accordingly, the controller may store the first set of parameters incorporated into the spin cycle.
• In at least one embodiment, the evaluating of the most recently performed spin cycle may include determining a rotational speed of the drum during the spin cycle. The washing machine appliance may be capable of rotating (or spinning) the drum (e.g., wash basket114) at various speeds as certain operations dictate. Accordingly, the controller may determine the speed at which the drum was rotated in the most recently performed spin cycle and compare the determined speed to a maximum allowable rotational speed.
• In another embodiment, the evaluating of the most recently performed spin cycle may include determining a total length of time of the spin cycle. For instance, the controller may measure or detect (e.g., via one or more sensors and or timers) a total length of time for which the spin cycle was performed in the most recently performed washing operation. The detected length of time may be compared to, for instance, a table of time lengths appropriate for certain laundry loads. In some embodiments, the controller may consider one or more of a laundry load size, a laundry load type, a wash level selection, a time of day, or the like when comparing the detected length of time.
• Atstep308,method300 may include adjusting one or more parameters of the first set of parameters based on the feedback input to generate a second set of parameters. In detail, the controller may create, develop, or otherwise store an adjusted set of parameters resulting from the user feedback and the evaluation of the most recently performed spin cycle (or washing operation in total). As described above, the one or more parameters may be associated with the spin cycle. In particular, the one or more parameters may be associated with a final spin cycle performed at the conclusion of the washing operation. It should be understood that the one or more parameters may be associated with one or more other cycles involved in the washing operation, as certain embodiments see fit.
• The controller may thus adjust the rotational speed of the drum. For instance, the controller may register a user feedback that a lower drying time is desired, a total dryness level of the laundry load is desired, or the like. In evaluating the most recently performed spin cycle, the controller may determine that the rotational speed of the drum was below the maximum rotational speed of the drum. Accordingly, the controller may adjust the first set of parameters to increase the rotational speed of the drum during the spin cycle to the maximum rotational speed. It should be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the examples given herein. For instance, in some embodiments, the user feedback may result in a shorter spin cycle time and/or a lower rotational speed of the drum during the spin cycle.
• According to another embodiment, the controller may adjust the length of time of the spin cycle. For instance, the controller may register the user feedback that a lower drying time is desired, a total dryness level of the laundry load is desired, or the like. In evaluating the most recently performed spin cycle, the controller may determine that a length of time of the spin cycle was inadequate (e.g., in the most recently performed spin cycle). Thus, the controller may adjust the total length of time of the spin cycle in the adjusted set of parameters. It should be noted that additional changes to the operating parameters of the washing operation may be incorporated in addition to or in place of those described herein. Moreover, it should be understood that the adjusted set of parameters may include adjustments to each of the rotational speed and the length of time of the spin cycle. Moreover still, it should be understood that additional cycles or steps within the washing cycle may be adjusted as a result of the user feedback. For one example, the controller may increase a length of time for which a drain pump of the washing machine appliance is left in an open state so as to ensure a complete drainage of the rinse water.
• Atstep310,method300 may include incorporating the second set (or adjusted set) of parameters into a spin cycle of a subsequent washing operation. The controller may save the second, or adjusted, set of parameters within a memory thereof. Accordingly, upon the next laundry load inserted for a washing operation, the controller may incorporate the second set of parameters. Advantageously, the laundry load may be in a better condition for drying at the commencement of the drying operation, thus reducing the overall laundry operation time and improving a quality of the laundry load upon completion.
• It should be noted that the controller receiving the feedback, evaluating the spin cycle, the washing operation, and the drying operation, adjusting the one or more parameters, and incorporating the adjusted set of parameters may be provided within the washing machine appliance, the dryer appliance, a combination of each, or neither. Indeed, the controller may be provided within a connected network or remote server (e.g.,network64, server68). Thus, it should be understood that the performance ofmethod300 may be carried out by one or more of the appliances described herein.
• According to the embodiments described herein, a controller of a laundry treatment assembly may monitor one or more parameters of a washing operation and a drying operation. The controller may receive user feedback upon the completion of a drying operation regarding the performance and satisfaction of the drying operation. The controller may then evaluate a most recently performed washing operation, specifically a spin cycle thereof. The spin cycle may include a first set of operating parameters, including a rotational speed of a drum and a total cycle time of the spin cycle. The controller may then adjust one or more of the parameters to generate a second set of parameters, adjusted from the first set. The second set of parameters may be incorporated into a subsequent washing operation in order to more adequately and efficiently perform the drying operation.
• This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims (20)

What is claimed is:

1. A method of operating a laundry treatment assembly, the laundry treatment assembly comprising a dryer appliance and a washing machine appliance, the method comprising:

performing a drying operation in the dryer appliance;

receiving user feedback regarding the drying operation upon completion of the drying operation;

evaluating a spin cycle of a most recently performed washing operation via the washing machine appliance upon receiving the user feedback, the spin cycle being performed according to a first set of parameters;

adjusting one or more parameters of the first set of parameters based on the user feedback to generate a second set of parameters; and

incorporating the second set of parameters into a spin cycle of a subsequent washing operation within the washing machine appliance.

2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the dryer appliance comprises a casing and a drum rotatably provided within the casing, and wherein the one or more parameters comprise a rotational speed of the drum and a length of time of the spin cycle.

3. The method ofclaim 2, wherein evaluating the spin cycle of the most recently performed washing operation comprises:

determining that the rotational speed of the drum is below a maximum rotational speed, and wherein adjusting the one or more parameters of the first set of parameters comprises:

adjusting the rotational speed of the drum to the maximum rotational speed.

4. The method ofclaim 2, wherein evaluating the spin cycle of the most recently performed washing operation comprises:

determining that the length of time of the spin cycle is below a first predetermined length of time, and wherein adjusting the one or more parameters of the first set of parameters comprises:

increasing the length of time of the spin cycle to the first predetermined length of time.

5. The method ofclaim 1, wherein receiving the user feedback comprises:

transmitting a feedback request to a user, the feedback request comprising a prompt to provide a rating of the drying operation.

6. The method ofclaim 5, wherein the prompt is transmitted to a mobile device of the user, the mobile device being in remote communication with the laundry treatment assembly.

7. The method ofclaim 1, wherein receiving the user feedback comprises:

detecting an input from a user to the dryer appliance during the drying operation.

8. The method ofclaim 7, wherein the dryer appliance further comprises a door sensor configured to detect an opening and closing of a door of the dryer appliance, and wherein the input from the user to the dryer appliance comprises an opening of the door of the dryer appliance.

9. The method ofclaim 1, wherein receiving the user feedback comprises:

detecting one or more changes to a set of drying parameters of the drying operation, the set of drying parameters comprising a length of time of the drying operation, a selected dryness level, and a selected temperature of the drying operation.

10. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising:

transmitting a notification to a user regarding the one or more adjusted parameters.

11. A laundry treatment assembly, comprising:

a washing machine appliance comprising a tub, a wash basket rotatably provided within the tub, and a washing controller configured to control a washing operation within the washing machine appliance;

a dryer appliance comprising a drum and a dryer controller configured to control a drying operation within the dryer appliance; and

a wireless communication module provided within one of the washing machine appliance or the dryer appliance, the wireless communication module configured to allow communication between the washing machine appliance, the dryer appliance, and a mobile device; wherein the dryer controller is configured to perform a series of operations, the series of operations comprising:

performing the drying operation in the dryer appliance;

receiving user feedback regarding the drying operation upon completion of the drying operation;

evaluating a most recently performed washing operation via the washing machine appliance upon receiving the user feedback, the most recently performed washing operation including a spin cycle performed according to a first set of parameters;

adjusting one or more parameters of the first set of parameters based on the user feedback to generate a second set of parameters; and

incorporating the second set of parameters into a subsequent washing operation within the washing machine appliance.

12. The laundry treatment assembly ofclaim 11, wherein the one or more parameters comprise a rotational speed of the drum and a length of time of the spin cycle.

13. The laundry treatment assembly ofclaim 12, wherein evaluating the most recently performed washing operation comprises:

determining that the rotational speed of the drum is below a maximum rotational speed; and

adjusting the rotational speed of the drum to the maximum rotational speed.

14. The laundry treatment assembly ofclaim 12, wherein evaluating the most recently performed washing operation comprises:

determining that the length of time of the spin cycle is below a first predetermined length of time; and

increasing the length of time of the spin cycle to the first predetermined length of time.

15. The laundry treatment assembly ofclaim 11, wherein receiving the user feedback comprises:

transmitting a feedback request to a user, the feedback request comprising a prompt to provide a rating of the drying operation.

16. The laundry treatment assembly ofclaim 15, wherein the prompt is transmitted to the mobile device of the user.

17. The laundry treatment assembly ofclaim 11, wherein receiving the user feedback comprises:

detecting an input from a user to the dryer appliance during the drying operation.

18. The laundry treatment assembly ofclaim 17, wherein the dryer appliance further comprises a door sensor configured to detect an opening and closing of a door of the dryer appliance, and wherein the input from the user to the dryer appliance comprises an opening of the door of the dryer appliance.

19. The laundry treatment assembly ofclaim 11, wherein receiving the user feedback comprises:

detecting one or more changes to a set of drying parameters of the drying operation, the set of drying parameters comprising a length of time of the drying operation, a selected dryness level, and a selected temperature of the drying operation.

20. A method of operating a washing machine appliance, the method comprising:

performing a spin cycle in the washing machine appliance;

receiving a user feedback regarding a drying operation performed by a dryer appliance, the dryer appliance being in communication with the washing machine appliance;

adjusting one or more parameters of the spin cycle to generate an adjusted set of parameters; and

incorporating the adjusted set of parameters into a spin cycle of a subsequent washing operation within the washing machine appliance.

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