EP1734167B1 - Method for wetting laundry and washing machine - Google Patents
Method for wetting laundry and washing machine Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP1734167B1 EP1734167B1 EP05013071A EP05013071A EP1734167B1 EP 1734167 B1 EP1734167 B1 EP 1734167B1 EP 05013071 A EP05013071 A EP 05013071A EP 05013071 A EP05013071 A EP 05013071A EP 1734167 B1 EP1734167 B1 EP 1734167B1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- drum
- wetting
- washing
- physical value
- laundry
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Not-in-force
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Classifications
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- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F35/00—Washing machines, apparatus, or methods not otherwise provided for
- D06F35/005—Methods for washing, rinsing or spin-drying
- D06F35/006—Methods for washing, rinsing or spin-drying for washing or rinsing only
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F33/00—Control of operations performed in washing machines or washer-dryers
- D06F33/30—Control of washing machines characterised by the purpose or target of the control
- D06F33/32—Control of operational steps, e.g. optimisation or improvement of operational steps depending on the condition of the laundry
- D06F33/36—Control of operational steps, e.g. optimisation or improvement of operational steps depending on the condition of the laundry of washing
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00
- D06F39/08—Liquid supply or discharge arrangements
- D06F39/088—Liquid supply arrangements
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F2101/00—User input for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
- D06F2101/02—Characteristics of laundry or load
- D06F2101/04—Quantity, e.g. weight
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F2103/00—Parameters monitored or detected for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
- D06F2103/02—Characteristics of laundry or load
- D06F2103/04—Quantity, e.g. weight or variation of weight
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F33/00—Control of operations performed in washing machines or washer-dryers
- D06F33/50—Control of washer-dryers characterised by the purpose or target of the control
- D06F33/74—Responding to irregular working conditions, e.g. malfunctioning of pumps
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a method for wetting the laundry loaded into a washing drum of a washing machine and a washing machine controlling the wetting process.
- the volume of dry laundry may vary considerably. For example 6 kg of toweling have much more volume than 6 kg of jeans trousers.
- voluminous but low weight laundry is sometimes compressed into the drum and the porthole door is closed with force.
- excessive friction may occur between the compressed laundry and the porthole door and in particular between the laundry and the rubber gasket. This may result in increased wear of the gasket and in an overload of the motor driving the drum, which may affect the washing machine's lifetime.
- the laundry within the drum could be damaged by excessive friction or by jamming the laundry between the drum and the gasket.
- FR 2 655 363 A1 it is proposed to increase the washing efficiency in dependency of the weight of the laundry in the washing drum which means that the rotation speed is adapted according to the load.
- the laundry weight is input by a user or automatically.
- US 2004/0010860 A1 proposes to determine load size and cycle efficiency using indicia like motor spin, torque, current or voltage to facilitate associated control decisions.
- An overload by the laundry stored the washing drum is indicated in the washing machine of DE 42 19 298 A1 as a warning to the user.
- a control unit of the washing machine disclosed in DE 44 31 654 A1 detects a deviation between set motor rotation and detected motor rotation during a wetting phase. This deviation and other parameters are used to determine the required final amount of water to be supplied to the washing drum to result in an optimum water amount for the washing phase. The deviation is detected using a tachometer.
- DE 101 38 067 A1 proposes to calculate the amount of washing water in dependency of the laundry weight and type.
- a separate nozzle directs a water spray onto the gasket in the wetting phase.
- JP-11169582 detects the motor current. In case the detected value is higher than a threshold value, the motor is stopped for a predetermined time and then rotated in the opposite direction.
- DE 102 39 493 A1 discloses a continuous detection of the motor current to detect indirectly a defect of the motor belt. When a detected value of the motor current is higher or lower than a particular threshold value, error messages are displayed and further the washing program is stopped.
- DE 92 14 387 U discloses a temperature detection of the motor. According to the measured temperature a pause between the reversing motions of the motor is set. In case a too high temperature is detected the motor is turned off.
- a method for wetting laundry in a washing machine in which the wetting program sequence is monitored to detect whether the rotation conditions for rotating a washing drum are in an acceptable operating condition or not. If the monitoring results in the determination that there is any deviation from desired conditions, the wetting program sequence is modified. At least one drawn rotation parameter is modified.
- the drum rotation speed is modified, for example the drum rotation is lowered which results in a lower energy consumption for rotating the drum and at the same time to a lower wear of the gasket and the laundry when rubbing along the gasket or the door.
- the drum rotation is reversed, such that by reorientation of the laundry within the drum the friction is reduced.
- the duration and/or start times of rotation intervals the twisting of the laundry within the drum is minimized.
- laundry portions which are wound between the drum and the gasket can be drawn back into the drum.
- one or more of these drum rotation modification parameters can be combined to any extent with one another to optimize the friction relief effect.
- the program rotation parameters can be combined with anyone of the liquid supply parameters as explained in the following.
- a least one parameter of the liquid supply to the washing drum is modified as compared to the standard wetting program sequence executed without modification.
- the monitoring and the modification takes place repeatedly during the wetting program sequence or continuously.
- the monitored physical value related to the drum rotation is the torque for rotating the drum which is for example detected by a torque meter.
- the parameter is the rotation speed of the drum which can be taken for example by a tachometer connected to the drum or the motor or any other rotation sensor.
- the parameter is any parameter of the motor which is driving the drum.
- Motor parameters include the motor current or power consumption, which are indirect measures for the drum friction, or a control value which is used in a feedback loop for controlling the drum rotation to have a predefined constant rotation speed.
- the method for wetting laundry in a washing machine comprises the detection of or request for the weight of the laundry loaded in the washing drum.
- a laundry weight detector is provided in the washing machine or the user of the washing machine can for example input the weight of the laundry at an input device of the washing machine. Then, in dependency of the laundry weight the wetting program sequence is modified.
- the modification of the wetting program sequence in dependency of the at least one monitored physical value and optionally dependency of the laundry weight is in particular useful in the starting phase of the wetting program sequence when the laundry is still dry or only minimally wetted.
- the friction of the laundry is decreased by increasing the wetting degree of the laundry and/or adapting the rotation conditions of the drum.
- the at least one liquid supply parameter includes the liquid flow rate or the liquid total amount supplied into the washing tub.
- the flow rate of fresh water taken from the house supply is increased to shorten the time up to a complete wetting of the laundry.
- the flow rate and flow time in the initial phase of the wetting program sequence is increased, such that a shrinking is obtained in the starting phase of the wetting program sequence.
- Another example is to modify the liquid supply intervals, for example when a high friction value as an physical value is detected, the rotation is stopped and predefined amount of liquid is supplied into the washing tub before the further rotation is started for a very fast soaking process.
- Modification of the liquid supply parameter may also include changing the liquid supply channel for supplying the liquid to the laundry, for example the fresh water liquid may be sprayed from a spray nozzle arranged at the porthole directly onto the laundry. Or a recirculation process can be started in which a circulation pump pumps the liquid from the bottom of the tub into the drum.
- all liquid supply parameters can be used as individual measure or in combination with a modification of the other parameters (liquid supply and rotation parameter) in an adjustable way.
- the monitored at least one physical value and optionally the laundry weight are processed and then the processing result is used for modifying the wetting program sequence in a preferred embodiment.
- a processing includes comparing the detected or monitored physical value and optionally the laundry weight with values in a look-up-table, which will result in a value or action to be taken for modifying the wetting program sequence.
- one or more of these parameters are input into a neural network or a fuzzy logic which are trained with optimum correction measures and output one or more parameters to be modified during the wetting program sequence.
- processing includes simple comparisons with threshold values to stepwise modify the wetting program sequence. Of course, all the processing may be done under consideration of the advance of the wetting program sequence, e.g. the degree of wetting already obtained, or any other time varying parameter.
- a modification is done only after an integration of the monitored value, such that peak deviations are averaged.
- a time variant processing is also done in that it is taken in consideration that the torque or power consumption is increased when the drum is accelerated from the stand to a predefined rotation speed. For example in a memory of a control unit of the washing machine time-dependent normal parameters are stored which are used to compare them to the current monitored physical value.
- the complete washing program is terminated, if the monitored physical value and/or the laundry weight exceed/s a predefined value, in particular if the monitor physical value exceeds a predefined value for a predefined period or if it exceeds a critical value. In the latter case it can be detected that the counter measures to reduce the friction have little effect and it is decided to stop the washing machine to prevent serious damage to the laundry and/or the washing machine.
- Fig. 1 shows a schematic overview of some elements of a washing machine 1.
- a washing drum 4 is arranged within a washing tub 2 wherein the drum 4 is rotated by a motor 6.
- a belt 8 connects a wheel on the shaft of the drum to a wheel on the shaft of the motor 6.
- the motor 6 is energized by a power controller 10 which controls the rotation speed of motor 6 in a feedback loop arrangement such that the actual rotation speed is adjusted to a presently predefined rotation speed.
- the value for the predefined rotation speed is sent from a control unit 16 controlling the operation of the washing machine 1 to the power controller 10. Due to the transmission ratio between the two shaft wheels of the drum 4 and motor 6 there is a fixed relation between the motor rotation speed and the drum rotation speed. Thereby the drum rotation is controlled in a known relation by controlling the motor.
- the power controller 10 sends a power consumption value to the control unit 16.
- a further motor parameter is monitored by temperature sensor 12.
- the temperature sensor 12 sends a continuous temperature signal to the control unit 16 for further processing.
- the temperature sensor 12 works in addition to or in combination with the overload temperature sensor as it is normally provided for each motor to prevent temperature damage to the motor.
- the temperature sensor 12 senses temperature changes well below the temperature destruction threshold normally used for motors.
- a weight sensor 14 is arranged within the washing machine 1 which detects the dry weight of the laundry stored in the drum 4 before supplying any liquid to the washing machine.
- the dry weight estimated by a user of the washing machine 1 is input by an input/monitor panel 18.
- Panel 18 is also used to select a washing program convenient for the laundry. Further, the input/monitor panel 18 is adapted to indicate selected parameters as well as the state of the washing program by acoustic and/or optical elements as for example an LCD monitor.
- Fig. 1 shows a particular embodiment of a washing machine 1 in which a recirculation system is provided, comprising a recirculation pump 20 controlled by control unit 16 and a fluid line 22 connecting the recirculation pump 20 to a nozzle 23 being arranged adjacent to the porthole of the tub 2 and spraying the recirculated fluid into the drum 4.
- a recirculation system comprising a recirculation pump 20 controlled by control unit 16 and a fluid line 22 connecting the recirculation pump 20 to a nozzle 23 being arranged adjacent to the porthole of the tub 2 and spraying the recirculated fluid into the drum 4.
- Fresh water is supplied from the home water supply via a valve 24 controlled by control unit 16.
- a fresh water line 26 connects valve 24 to the inside of the tub 2.
- the fresh water line 26 may be connected to a washing detergent unit to provide the washing detergent together with the fresh water into the tub 2.
- the detergent unit may include one or more fluid or solid detergent compartments, including for example a prewash detergent, a main wash detergent and so on.
- the fresh water may directly be supplied into the washing tub 2 bypassing the detergent compartments.
- Fig. 2 shows an exemplary method for controlling the wetting program sequence using the program code run on the control unit 16.
- step 100 the washing program is started after the user has selected a washing program. Normally there is a plurality of washing programs to be selected by the user depending on the type of fabrics to be washed and the degree of soiling.
- the control unit 16 selects and starts 110 a wetting program sequence which is optimized for standard conditions for the selected washing program.
- step 110 the wetting program sequence is started, the motor is monitored in step 112.
- the weight of the loaded laundry is monitored in step 114.
- the signals from monitoring the motor 112 and optionally from monitoring the laundry weight 114 are used for further processing and calculating the modification parameters for the wetting program sequence. Both signals may be used in combination.
- the dry weight detection step 114 is only performed at the beginning of the wetting program sequence and a modification is then made for the residual process.
- the initial weight value is used as an additional parameter unchanged from the beginning of the wetting program sequence to be combined with the values monitored in step 112.
- a continuous modification of the wetting program sequence in progress can be done including the initial dry weight.
- step 116 the optional weight data from step 114 and the motor data from step 112 are processed in the control unit 16 and the processing result is used in step 118 to decide whether the wetting program sequence is to be continued with standard wetting program sequence parameters as shown in step 120, or the process has to be continued with modified wetting program sequence parameters such that the program continues with step 130.
- step 130 it is decided whether the processing result from step 116 indicates an abnormal or excess state, which may result in a permanent damage of the washing machine or the laundry, and the program proceeds from step 130 to step 300.
- step 300 the abnormal state of the washing machine is indicated to the user by an acoustic and/or visual signal' for example at the panel 18, and the program proceeds to step 302 where the washing program is terminated.
- a training pump (not shown) drains the washing tub 2, the fresh water valve 24 is closed and no further action is taken.
- step 130 If in step 130 it is decided that no abnormal or critical state is detected, the program proceeds to step 132 for a parameter processing wherein the type and degree of modification of the wetting programs sequence is calculated in dependency of the motor value monitored in step 112 and optionally the dry weight data retrieved in step 114.
- the parameter processing one or more of the modification steps 134 to 140 are selected which replace the standard wetting program sequence step 120 and are described in more detail below.
- step 122 it is decided whether the wetting program sequence is finished or not. If the wetting program sequence is finished, the program proceeds to step 200 where the next washing program step is started. If in step 122 it is determined that the wetting program sequence is not finished, the program repeats the sequence from steps 112 onward. As mentioned above, step 114 is only used in the starting phase, i.e. the first time passing the flow diagram at this point. By repeating the sequence from step 112 this particular embodiment of the method for wetting laundry results in a repeated adaptation of the modified wetting program sequence, and when it is determined in steps 112, 116 and 118 that the wetting progress results for example in a decreased friction, then the standard wetting program sequence can be resumed in step 120. In this case, the modification takes only place in a limited period during the wetting program sequence as long as the friction value is high.
- the modified wetting program sequence can permanently be used until the end of the wetting program sequence.
- step 134 the drum rotation is immediately stopped while fresh water is supplied into the tub 2 through fresh water line 26.
- This hold time is continued for a predetermined time (compare Fig. 3b) and after the predetermined hold time or pause the program is continued at step 122.
- step 136 the rhythm of drum rotation as compared to the standard wetting program sequence is changed.
- the rotation duration to the left and right directions are shorter than in the standard rotation cycles while different hold times (times without rotations) between the rotation sequences are used.
- the rotation speed is modified for the left and/or right rotation as compared to the standard rotation speed.
- step 138 the rotation is immediately stopped and a rotation to the other direction is initiated immediately or after a hold time (see Fig. 3d) as soon as the friction or power consumption of the motor 6 exceeds a threshold value.
- step 140 the wetting of the laundry in the drum is accelerated in that the fresh water is supplied directly onto the laundry using nozzle 23 or by starting the recirculation system and spraying the liquid from the bottom of the tub 2 onto the laundry using nozzle 23. This can be done during a rotation of the drum or a hold period.
- Fig. 3a shows the friction F of the drum 4 over time and the rotation speed n of the drum in an arbitrary scale after starting the wetting program sequence.
- the bold line schematically shows the rotation speed n of the drum 4 with clockwise and counter clockwise rotations.
- the fine line shows the detected friction F which is for example detected according to Fig. 1 by the power controller 10 which sends the power consumption signal to control unit 16 for processing this signal.
- the standard wetting program sequence is executed by control unit 16 according the selected washing program.
- the friction value F exceeds the maximum allowable friction threshold which is indicated in Fig. 3a by the horizontal dotted line.
- From t E onward the standard wetting program sequence is stopped and a modified wetting program sequence (Fig. 3b to Fig. 3d) is started.
- Fig. 3c (compare step 136) the drum rotation is also stopped and after a pause a reversed rotation with a reduced rotation speed is started.
- the wetting sequence from time t E to t R is a period in which the drum rotation intervals are shorter than in the standard wetting sequence and also the drum rotation speed is reduced. After the time t R the standard program sequence is resumed.
- the different measures in steps 134 to 140 may be combined in any possible composition and each measure may be applied in full or partial degree.
- the immediate inversion of the rotation direction as shown in Fig. 3d at time t E may be initiated and a period of alternated rotation duration and rotation speeds as shown in Fig. 3c may follow.
- the immediate inversion of the rotation direction may be accompanied by a water supply directly onto the laundry as described in connection with step 140.
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Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a method for wetting the laundry loaded into a washing drum of a washing machine and a washing machine controlling the wetting process.
- For a conventional washing machine it is normally recommended to use the maximum load capacity for laundry to be loaded into the washing drum due to environmental and budgetary considerations. Depending on the type of fabrics, the volume of dry laundry may vary considerably. For example 6 kg of toweling have much more volume than 6 kg of jeans trousers. Thus, voluminous but low weight laundry is sometimes compressed into the drum and the porthole door is closed with force. Especially in the start phase excessive friction may occur between the compressed laundry and the porthole door and in particular between the laundry and the rubber gasket. This may result in increased wear of the gasket and in an overload of the motor driving the drum, which may affect the washing machine's lifetime. Also the laundry within the drum could be damaged by excessive friction or by jamming the laundry between the drum and the gasket.
- In
FR 2 655 363 A1 -
US 2004/0010860 A1 proposes to determine load size and cycle efficiency using indicia like motor spin, torque, current or voltage to facilitate associated control decisions. - An overload by the laundry stored the washing drum is indicated in the washing machine of
DE 42 19 298 A1 as a warning to the user. - A control unit of the washing machine disclosed in
DE 44 31 654 A1 detects a deviation between set motor rotation and detected motor rotation during a wetting phase. This deviation and other parameters are used to determine the required final amount of water to be supplied to the washing drum to result in an optimum water amount for the washing phase. The deviation is detected using a tachometer. - To optimize the water consumption and the washing efficiency
DE 101 38 067 A1 proposes to calculate the amount of washing water in dependency of the laundry weight and type. For reducing the friction of the dry laundry at the gasket, a separate nozzle directs a water spray onto the gasket in the wetting phase. - In the wetting phase of the washing method known from
US 2004/0226107 A1 the rotation direction and time period of rotation in one direction is changed in dependency of the laundry load. - It is an object of the invention to provide a method for wetting laundry and a washing machine which avoid or minimize strain on laundry and machine components during a wetting phase.
- To prevent an overload of the motor due to twisting of clothing,
JP-11169582 -
DE 102 39 493 A1 discloses a continuous detection of the motor current to detect indirectly a defect of the motor belt. When a detected value of the motor current is higher or lower than a particular threshold value, error messages are displayed and further the washing program is stopped. - To reduce the overall washing time by reducing the pauses between the left and right rotation of the motor,
DE 92 14 387 U discloses a temperature detection of the motor. According to the measured temperature a pause between the reversing motions of the motor is set. In case a too high temperature is detected the motor is turned off. - The invention is defined in
claims 1 and 7, respectively. - Particular embodiments are set out in the depended claims.
- According to claim 1, a method for wetting laundry in a washing machine is provided in which the wetting program sequence is monitored to detect whether the rotation conditions for rotating a washing drum are in an acceptable operating condition or not. If the monitoring results in the determination that there is any deviation from desired conditions, the wetting program sequence is modified. At least one drawn rotation parameter is modified.
- As an exemple the drum rotation speed is modified, for example the drum rotation is lowered which results in a lower energy consumption for rotating the drum and at the same time to a lower wear of the gasket and the laundry when rubbing along the gasket or the door. Or the drum rotation is reversed, such that by reorientation of the laundry within the drum the friction is reduced. Also by a modification of the duration and/or start times of rotation intervals the twisting of the laundry within the drum is minimized. Also laundry portions which are wound between the drum and the gasket can be drawn back into the drum. Of course, one or more of these drum rotation modification parameters can be combined to any extent with one another to optimize the friction relief effect. Also the program rotation parameters can be combined with anyone of the liquid supply parameters as explained in the following.
- A least one parameter of the liquid supply to the washing drum is modified as compared to the standard wetting program sequence executed without modification.
- The monitoring and the modification takes place repeatedly during the wetting program sequence or continuously.
- The monitored physical value related to the drum rotation is the torque for rotating the drum which is for example detected by a torque meter. Or the parameter is the rotation speed of the drum which can be taken for example by a tachometer connected to the drum or the motor or any other rotation sensor. Or the parameter is any parameter of the motor which is driving the drum. Of course, one or more of these parameters can be combined. Motor parameters include the motor current or power consumption, which are indirect measures for the drum friction, or a control value which is used in a feedback loop for controlling the drum rotation to have a predefined constant rotation speed.
- In an embodiment, the method for wetting laundry in a washing machine comprises the detection of or request for the weight of the laundry loaded in the washing drum. A laundry weight detector is provided in the washing machine or the user of the washing machine can for example input the weight of the laundry at an input device of the washing machine. Then, in dependency of the laundry weight the wetting program sequence is modified.
- In a standard wetting program sequence it is to be observed that the originally voluminous dry laundry shrinks in its volume by increasingly soaking the loaded laundry. In the completely soaked state, the laundry occupies much less volume within the drum than in the dry state. Therefore, in the soaked state it can be assumed that the laundry, which has initially to be compressed when closing the porthole door and which rubs during the first rotations of the drum against the door and the gasket, has a reduced volume and loosely contacts the door and the gasket.
- The modification of the wetting program sequence in dependency of the at least one monitored physical value and optionally dependency of the laundry weight is in particular useful in the starting phase of the wetting program sequence when the laundry is still dry or only minimally wetted. By the modification the friction of the laundry is decreased by increasing the wetting degree of the laundry and/or adapting the rotation conditions of the drum.
- According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one liquid supply parameter includes the liquid flow rate or the liquid total amount supplied into the washing tub. For example, the flow rate of fresh water taken from the house supply is increased to shorten the time up to a complete wetting of the laundry. Or the flow rate and flow time in the initial phase of the wetting program sequence is increased, such that a shrinking is obtained in the starting phase of the wetting program sequence. Another example is to modify the liquid supply intervals, for example when a high friction value as an physical value is detected, the rotation is stopped and predefined amount of liquid is supplied into the washing tub before the further rotation is started for a very fast soaking process. Modification of the liquid supply parameter may also include changing the liquid supply channel for supplying the liquid to the laundry, for example the fresh water liquid may be sprayed from a spray nozzle arranged at the porthole directly onto the laundry. Or a recirculation process can be started in which a circulation pump pumps the liquid from the bottom of the tub into the drum. Of course, all liquid supply parameters can be used as individual measure or in combination with a modification of the other parameters (liquid supply and rotation parameter) in an adjustable way.
- The monitored at least one physical value and optionally the laundry weight are processed and then the processing result is used for modifying the wetting program sequence in a preferred embodiment. Such a processing includes comparing the detected or monitored physical value and optionally the laundry weight with values in a look-up-table, which will result in a value or action to be taken for modifying the wetting program sequence. Or one or more of these parameters are input into a neural network or a fuzzy logic which are trained with optimum correction measures and output one or more parameters to be modified during the wetting program sequence. Or processing includes simple comparisons with threshold values to stepwise modify the wetting program sequence. Of course, all the processing may be done under consideration of the advance of the wetting program sequence, e.g. the degree of wetting already obtained, or any other time varying parameter. For example a modification is done only after an integration of the monitored value, such that peak deviations are averaged. A time variant processing is also done in that it is taken in consideration that the torque or power consumption is increased when the drum is accelerated from the stand to a predefined rotation speed. For example in a memory of a control unit of the washing machine time-dependent normal parameters are stored which are used to compare them to the current monitored physical value.
- In another embodiment the complete washing program is terminated, if the monitored physical value and/or the laundry weight exceed/s a predefined value, in particular if the monitor physical value exceeds a predefined value for a predefined period or if it exceeds a critical value. In the latter case it can be detected that the counter measures to reduce the friction have little effect and it is decided to stop the washing machine to prevent serious damage to the laundry and/or the washing machine.
- Reference is made in detail to preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, which show:
- Fig. 1
- a schematic block diagram of some units of a washing machine,
- Fig. 2
- a flow diagram for controlling a wetting program sequence of the washing machine shown in Fig. 1, and
- Fig. 3a to 3d
- the drum rotation speed and friction force in dependency of time in a standard wetting modus and in modified modi.
- Fig. 1 shows a schematic overview of some elements of a washing machine 1. A
washing drum 4 is arranged within awashing tub 2 wherein thedrum 4 is rotated by amotor 6. Abelt 8 connects a wheel on the shaft of the drum to a wheel on the shaft of themotor 6. Themotor 6 is energized by apower controller 10 which controls the rotation speed ofmotor 6 in a feedback loop arrangement such that the actual rotation speed is adjusted to a presently predefined rotation speed. The value for the predefined rotation speed is sent from acontrol unit 16 controlling the operation of the washing machine 1 to thepower controller 10. Due to the transmission ratio between the two shaft wheels of thedrum 4 andmotor 6 there is a fixed relation between the motor rotation speed and the drum rotation speed. Thereby the drum rotation is controlled in a known relation by controlling the motor. Thepower controller 10 sends a power consumption value to thecontrol unit 16. - A further motor parameter is monitored by
temperature sensor 12. Thetemperature sensor 12 sends a continuous temperature signal to thecontrol unit 16 for further processing. Thetemperature sensor 12 works in addition to or in combination with the overload temperature sensor as it is normally provided for each motor to prevent temperature damage to the motor. Thetemperature sensor 12 senses temperature changes well below the temperature destruction threshold normally used for motors. - A
weight sensor 14 is arranged within the washing machine 1 which detects the dry weight of the laundry stored in thedrum 4 before supplying any liquid to the washing machine. In an alternate embodiment or in addition to detecting the dry weight of the laundry byweight sensor 14, the dry weight estimated by a user of the washing machine 1 is input by an input/monitor panel 18.Panel 18 is also used to select a washing program convenient for the laundry. Further, the input/monitor panel 18 is adapted to indicate selected parameters as well as the state of the washing program by acoustic and/or optical elements as for example an LCD monitor. - Fig. 1 shows a particular embodiment of a washing machine 1 in which a recirculation system is provided, comprising a
recirculation pump 20 controlled bycontrol unit 16 and afluid line 22 connecting therecirculation pump 20 to anozzle 23 being arranged adjacent to the porthole of thetub 2 and spraying the recirculated fluid into thedrum 4. By operating therecirculation pump 20 the liquid is sprayed directly onto the laundry, which for example results in a much more homogeneous wetting of the laundry while rotating thedrum 4. - Fresh water is supplied from the home water supply via a
valve 24 controlled bycontrol unit 16. Afresh water line 26 connectsvalve 24 to the inside of thetub 2. As not shown herein, thefresh water line 26 may be connected to a washing detergent unit to provide the washing detergent together with the fresh water into thetub 2. The detergent unit may include one or more fluid or solid detergent compartments, including for example a prewash detergent, a main wash detergent and so on. In an alternate embodiment, the fresh water may directly be supplied into thewashing tub 2 bypassing the detergent compartments. - Fig. 2 shows an exemplary method for controlling the wetting program sequence using the program code run on the
control unit 16. Instep 100 the washing program is started after the user has selected a washing program. Normally there is a plurality of washing programs to be selected by the user depending on the type of fabrics to be washed and the degree of soiling. Then thecontrol unit 16 selects and starts 110 a wetting program sequence which is optimized for standard conditions for the selected washing program. When instep 110 the wetting program sequence is started, the motor is monitored instep 112. Optionally in addition tostep 112 the weight of the loaded laundry is monitored instep 114. - It is to be noted that for a modification of the wetting program sequence the signals from monitoring the
motor 112 and optionally from monitoring thelaundry weight 114 are used for further processing and calculating the modification parameters for the wetting program sequence. Both signals may be used in combination. Of course, the dryweight detection step 114 is only performed at the beginning of the wetting program sequence and a modification is then made for the residual process. Or the initial weight value is used as an additional parameter unchanged from the beginning of the wetting program sequence to be combined with the values monitored instep 112. Thus a continuous modification of the wetting program sequence in progress can be done including the initial dry weight. - In
step 116 the optional weight data fromstep 114 and the motor data fromstep 112 are processed in thecontrol unit 16 and the processing result is used instep 118 to decide whether the wetting program sequence is to be continued with standard wetting program sequence parameters as shown instep 120, or the process has to be continued with modified wetting program sequence parameters such that the program continues withstep 130. Instep 130 it is decided whether the processing result fromstep 116 indicates an abnormal or excess state, which may result in a permanent damage of the washing machine or the laundry, and the program proceeds fromstep 130 to step 300. - In
step 300, the abnormal state of the washing machine is indicated to the user by an acoustic and/or visual signal' for example at thepanel 18, and the program proceeds to step 302 where the washing program is terminated. When the washing program is terminated a training pump (not shown) drains thewashing tub 2, thefresh water valve 24 is closed and no further action is taken. - If in
step 130 it is decided that no abnormal or critical state is detected, the program proceeds to step 132 for a parameter processing wherein the type and degree of modification of the wetting programs sequence is calculated in dependency of the motor value monitored instep 112 and optionally the dry weight data retrieved instep 114. According to the parameter processing, one or more of the modification steps 134 to 140 are selected which replace the standard wettingprogram sequence step 120 and are described in more detail below. - In
step 122 it is decided whether the wetting program sequence is finished or not. If the wetting program sequence is finished, the program proceeds to step 200 where the next washing program step is started. If instep 122 it is determined that the wetting program sequence is not finished, the program repeats the sequence fromsteps 112 onward. As mentioned above,step 114 is only used in the starting phase, i.e. the first time passing the flow diagram at this point. By repeating the sequence fromstep 112 this particular embodiment of the method for wetting laundry results in a repeated adaptation of the modified wetting program sequence, and when it is determined insteps step 120. In this case, the modification takes only place in a limited period during the wetting program sequence as long as the friction value is high. - In an alternate embodiment or as mentioned in connection with the dry
weight detection step 114, the modified wetting program sequence can permanently be used until the end of the wetting program sequence. - The modified program steps 134 to 140 result in a modification of the sequence as follows:
- In
step 134 the drum rotation is immediately stopped while fresh water is supplied into thetub 2 throughfresh water line 26. This hold time is continued for a predetermined time (compare Fig. 3b) and after the predetermined hold time or pause the program is continued atstep 122. - In step 136 (compare Fig. 3c) the rhythm of drum rotation as compared to the standard wetting program sequence is changed. In this case the rotation duration to the left and right directions are shorter than in the standard rotation cycles while different hold times (times without rotations) between the rotation sequences are used. Additionally or alternatively the rotation speed is modified for the left and/or right rotation as compared to the standard rotation speed.
- In
step 138 the rotation is immediately stopped and a rotation to the other direction is initiated immediately or after a hold time (see Fig. 3d) as soon as the friction or power consumption of themotor 6 exceeds a threshold value. - In
step 140 the wetting of the laundry in the drum is accelerated in that the fresh water is supplied directly onto thelaundry using nozzle 23 or by starting the recirculation system and spraying the liquid from the bottom of thetub 2 onto thelaundry using nozzle 23. This can be done during a rotation of the drum or a hold period. - Fig. 3a shows the friction F of the
drum 4 over time and the rotation speed n of the drum in an arbitrary scale after starting the wetting program sequence. The bold line schematically shows the rotation speed n of thedrum 4 with clockwise and counter clockwise rotations. The fine line shows the detected friction F which is for example detected according to Fig. 1 by thepower controller 10 which sends the power consumption signal to controlunit 16 for processing this signal. From the time of starting the wetting program sequence (t = 0) to time tE the standard wetting program sequence is executed bycontrol unit 16 according the selected washing program. At time tE the friction value F exceeds the maximum allowable friction threshold which is indicated in Fig. 3a by the horizontal dotted line. From tE onward the standard wetting program sequence is stopped and a modified wetting program sequence (Fig. 3b to Fig. 3d) is started. - After a period of modified wetting program sequence the standard wetting program sequence can be resumed as also shown in Fig. 3b to 3d. Resuming may also include a phase shift of the standard wetting program sequence as compared to the sequence from the starting time t = 0 onward.
- In Fig. 3b (compare step 134) at time tE the rotation of the drum is stopped and an additional pause is inserted into the program sequence before the sequence continues with the standard wetting program sequence.
- In Fig. 3c (compare step 136) the drum rotation is also stopped and after a pause a reversed rotation with a reduced rotation speed is started. The wetting sequence from time tE to tR is a period in which the drum rotation intervals are shorter than in the standard wetting sequence and also the drum rotation speed is reduced. After the time tR the standard program sequence is resumed.
- In Fig. 3d the drum rotation direction is immediately reversed at time tE and after this rotation inversion the standard wetting program sequence is also resumed.
- As mentioned above, the different measures in
steps 134 to 140 may be combined in any possible composition and each measure may be applied in full or partial degree. For example, the immediate inversion of the rotation direction as shown in Fig. 3d at time tE may be initiated and a period of alternated rotation duration and rotation speeds as shown in Fig. 3c may follow. Or the immediate inversion of the rotation direction may be accompanied by a water supply directly onto the laundry as described in connection withstep 140. -
- 1
- washing machine
- 2
- washing tub
- 4
- drum
- 6
- motor
- 8
- belt
- 10
- power controller
- 12
- temperature sensor
- 14
- weight sensor
- 16
- control unit
- 18
- input/monitor panel
- 20
- recirculation pump
- 22
- fluid line
- 23
- nozzle
- 24
- valve
- 26
- fresh water line
- 100
- start washing program
- 110
- start wetting procedure
- 112
- motor monitoring
- 114
- weight detection
- 116
- processing
- 118
- decision on parameter
- 120
- normal wetting procedure
- 122
- control of wetting time
- 130
- decision on abnormal state
- 132
- parameter processing
- 134
- stop drum movement/wetting
- 136
- shorter reversing interval
- 138
- increase wetting speed
- 140
- immediate rotation change
- 200
- next washing program sequence
- 300
- warning
- 302
- termination of washing program
Claims (13)
- Method of wetting laundry in a washing machine (1) having a washing drum (4), the method comprising the steps of:starting (100) a wetting program sequence;monitoring (112) at least one physical value (F) related to the rotation of the washing drum, wherein said monitored physical value (F) is the torque for rotating the drum, the rotation speed or at least one parameter of a motor (6) deriving the drum (4); andmodifying (132-140) the wetting program sequence in dependency of the at least one monitored physical value (F);characterized by:during the wetting program sequence repeatedly or continuously:wherein the wetting program sequence is modified by modification of at least one drum rotation parameter (n) selected from the drum rotation speed, the direction of rotation, or the duration and/or start times of rotation intervals and/or stop intervals;monitoring the at least one physical value (F);processing the at least one monitored physical value (F);comparing the at least one monitored physical value (F) with at least one threshold value; andmodifying the wetting program sequence in dependency of the monitored physical value (F), if the monitored physical value (F) exceeds or corresponds to the threshold value;
wherein modifying (132-140) the wetting program sequence additionally comprises modifying at least one parameter of the liquid supply to the washing drum (4). - Method according to claim 1, comprising the steps of:detecting (114) or requesting the weight of the laundry loaded in the washing drum (4); andmodifying (132-140) the wetting program sequence additionally in dependency of the laundry weight.
- Method according to claim 1, wherein the at least one liquid supply parameter includes at least one of the liquid flow rate, the liquid total amount, the liquid supply interval, and the liquid supply channel (22, 23).
- Method according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the motor parameter includes at least one of a motor current, a power consumption, a motor temperature, and a control value for controlling the drum rotation.
- Method according to any of the previous claims, wherein a signal indicates the user of the washing machine (1) an abnormal state and/or that the washing program is terminated, if the monitored physical value (F) and/or laundry weight exceeds a predefined value for a preset time and/or exceeds a critical value.
- Method according to any of the previous claims, wherein the wetting program sequence is modified in-dependency of a selected washing program in addition to the at least one monitored physical value (F) and/or the laundry weight.
- Washing machine comprising:a washing drum (4) arranged in a washing tub (2);a motor (6) driving the drum (4);a control unit (16) adapted to control a plurality of program sequences;a water supply valve (24) controlled by the control unit and adapted to supply water via a fresh water line (26) to the drum;a detection unit (10, 12) adapted to detect at least one physical value (F) related to the rotation of the washing drum (4) and optionally a weight unit (14, 18) adapted to provide weight data of the laundry loaded into the drum (4); andat least one connection line connecting the detection unit (10, 12) and optionally a weight unit (14, 18) and the control unit (16), adapted to transmit a physical value signal and optionally the weight data to the control unit;wherein the control unit (16) is adapted
to start a wetting program sequence;
to monitor the at least one physical value signal (F),
wherein the physical value signal is indicative of the torque for rotating the drum (4), the rotation speed or at least one parameter of a motor (6) driving the drum (4);
characterized in that the control unit (16) is further adapted to repeatedly or continuously execute the following control sequences:monitor the at least one physical value signal (F);process the at least one monitored physical value signal (F);compare the at least one monitored physical value signal (F) with at least one threshold value; andmodify the wetting program sequence in dependency of the monitored physical value signal (F), if the monitored physical value signal (F) exceeds or corresponds to the threshold value, by modifying at least one drum rotation parameter (n) and additionally by modifying at least one parameter of the liquid supply to the washing drum (4),wherein the at least one modified drum rotation parameter (n) includes at least one of the drum rotation speed, the direction of rotation, the duration and/or start times of rotation intervals and/or stop intervals. - Washing machine according to claim 7, wherein the detection unit (10, 12) comprises a torque meter adapted to detect the torque acting to rotate the drum (4).
- Washing machine according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the detection unit (10, 12) comprises a motor detector adapted to detect at least one of the motor current, the motor power consumption, a motor temperature, and a motor control value.
- Washing machine according to claim 7, 8 or 9, wherein the detection unit (10, 12) comprises a rotation speed detector adapted to detect the motor and/or drum rotation speed.
- Washing machine according to any of claims 7 to 10, wherein the weight unit (14, 18) comprises an input panel (18) arranged to input the laundry weight by the user of the washing machine.
- Washing machine according to any of claims 7 to 11, wherein the weight unit (14, 18) comprises a weight sensor (14) adapted to sense the weight of the laundry loaded into the drum (4).
- Washing machine according to any of claims 7 to 12, comprising a recirculation system including
a recirculation pump (20) controlled by the control unit (16),
a nozzle (23) arranged adjacent to a porthole of the tub (2) and adapted to spray recirculated fluid into the drum (4), and
a fluid line (22) connecting the recirculation pump (20) to the nozzle (23).
Priority Applications (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
PL05013071T PL1734167T3 (en) | 2005-06-17 | 2005-06-17 | Method for wetting laundry and washing machine |
ES05013071T ES2293424T3 (en) | 2005-06-17 | 2005-06-17 | METHOD TO REMOVE THE COLADA AND WASHER. |
EP05013071A EP1734167B1 (en) | 2005-06-17 | 2005-06-17 | Method for wetting laundry and washing machine |
DE602005002642T DE602005002642T2 (en) | 2005-06-17 | 2005-06-17 | Method for wetting laundry and washing machine |
AT05013071T ATE374273T1 (en) | 2005-06-17 | 2005-06-17 | METHOD FOR WETTING LAUNDRY AND WASHING MACHINE |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP05013071A EP1734167B1 (en) | 2005-06-17 | 2005-06-17 | Method for wetting laundry and washing machine |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP1734167A1 EP1734167A1 (en) | 2006-12-20 |
EP1734167B1 true EP1734167B1 (en) | 2007-09-26 |
Family
ID=35115926
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP05013071A Not-in-force EP1734167B1 (en) | 2005-06-17 | 2005-06-17 | Method for wetting laundry and washing machine |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP1734167B1 (en) |
AT (1) | ATE374273T1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE602005002642T2 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2293424T3 (en) |
PL (1) | PL1734167T3 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9988751B2 (en) | 2015-07-29 | 2018-06-05 | Whirlpool Corporation | Laundry treating appliance and methods of reducing tub contact therein |
EP4148177A1 (en) * | 2021-09-14 | 2023-03-15 | Miele & Cie. KG | Washing machine and method for detecting a drum blockage in a washing machine |
BE1029754B1 (en) * | 2021-09-14 | 2023-04-11 | Miele & Cie | Method for detecting a jammed drum in a laundry care appliance and laundry care appliance |
Families Citing this family (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP2138624B1 (en) * | 2008-06-24 | 2011-11-30 | Candy S.p.A. | Method for washing and/or rinsing in a laundry washing machine with increased energy saving. |
US9157177B2 (en) | 2011-12-21 | 2015-10-13 | Whirlpool Corporation | Laundry treating appliance and method of control |
US10273621B2 (en) | 2015-10-01 | 2019-04-30 | Whirlpool Corporation | Laundry treating appliance and methods of operation |
US10041202B2 (en) | 2015-11-19 | 2018-08-07 | Whirlpool Corporation | Laundry treating appliance and methods of operation |
US9885135B2 (en) | 2015-11-19 | 2018-02-06 | Whirlpool Corporation | Laundry treating appliance and methods of operation |
US9988753B2 (en) | 2015-11-19 | 2018-06-05 | Whirlpool Corporation | Laundry treating appliance and methods of operation |
US9873968B2 (en) | 2015-11-19 | 2018-01-23 | Whirlpool Corporation | Laundry treating appliance and methods of operation |
US9890490B2 (en) | 2015-11-19 | 2018-02-13 | Whirlpool Corporation | Laundry treating appliance and methods of operation |
US9863080B2 (en) | 2015-11-19 | 2018-01-09 | Whirlpool Corporation | Laundry treating appliance and methods of operation |
KR102412036B1 (en) * | 2017-07-14 | 2022-06-22 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Washing apparutus and controlling method thereof |
CN112183470B (en) * | 2020-10-28 | 2022-07-19 | 长江大学 | Ship water gauge identification method and equipment and storage medium |
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DE10239493A1 (en) * | 2002-08-28 | 2004-03-11 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Laundry equipment drive problem-solving method for recognizing a problem in a drive chain on washing equipment like a washing machine or a linen drier monitors a drive motor's power consumption |
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FR2655363B1 (en) * | 1989-12-05 | 1994-08-26 | Ciapem | WASHING MACHINE HAVING A ROTATION SPEED OF THE DRUM VARIED ACCORDING TO THE LOAD. |
DE4219298A1 (en) * | 1992-06-12 | 1993-12-16 | Licentia Gmbh | Drum washing machine with laundry weighing device and wt. indicator - has indicator coupled to programme selector for warning user of under- or overloading of drum |
DE4431654C2 (en) * | 1994-09-06 | 1998-11-26 | Miele & Cie | Method for filling a washing machine tub |
DE4438760A1 (en) * | 1994-10-29 | 1996-05-02 | Miele & Cie | Method for determining a load level dependent on the type of laundry and the amount of laundry |
DE19934579A1 (en) * | 1999-07-23 | 2001-01-25 | Aeg Hausgeraete Gmbh | Process is for wetting and washing laundry items in program-controlled washing machine |
DE19962252A1 (en) * | 1999-12-22 | 2001-06-28 | Bsh Bosch Siemens Hausgeraete | Washing machine has perforated drum casing with at least one end with water inlet connected via controllable valve to water supply pipeline, rinsing device operating via casing holes |
DE10136519B4 (en) * | 2001-07-26 | 2004-09-02 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Method of operating a programmable washing machine and washing machine suitable therefor |
DE10138067A1 (en) * | 2001-08-03 | 2003-02-20 | Bsh Bosch Siemens Hausgeraete | Operation of program-controlled washing machine, includes three filling stages comprising water surface-wetting, detergent delivery and water-filling |
US7017217B2 (en) * | 2002-07-22 | 2006-03-28 | General Electric Company | Washing machine rinse cycle method and apparatus |
-
2005
- 2005-06-17 PL PL05013071T patent/PL1734167T3/en unknown
- 2005-06-17 DE DE602005002642T patent/DE602005002642T2/en active Active
- 2005-06-17 AT AT05013071T patent/ATE374273T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2005-06-17 ES ES05013071T patent/ES2293424T3/en active Active
- 2005-06-17 EP EP05013071A patent/EP1734167B1/en not_active Not-in-force
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JPH11169582A (en) * | 1997-12-12 | 1999-06-29 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | Washing machine |
DE10239493A1 (en) * | 2002-08-28 | 2004-03-11 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Laundry equipment drive problem-solving method for recognizing a problem in a drive chain on washing equipment like a washing machine or a linen drier monitors a drive motor's power consumption |
Cited By (3)
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US9988751B2 (en) | 2015-07-29 | 2018-06-05 | Whirlpool Corporation | Laundry treating appliance and methods of reducing tub contact therein |
EP4148177A1 (en) * | 2021-09-14 | 2023-03-15 | Miele & Cie. KG | Washing machine and method for detecting a drum blockage in a washing machine |
BE1029754B1 (en) * | 2021-09-14 | 2023-04-11 | Miele & Cie | Method for detecting a jammed drum in a laundry care appliance and laundry care appliance |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
DE602005002642D1 (en) | 2007-11-08 |
PL1734167T3 (en) | 2008-03-31 |
EP1734167A1 (en) | 2006-12-20 |
DE602005002642T2 (en) | 2008-07-17 |
ATE374273T1 (en) | 2007-10-15 |
ES2293424T3 (en) | 2008-03-16 |
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