Dishwasher and control method for a dishwasher

Abstract

The application discloses a dishwasher and a control method of the dishwasher. The dishwasher comprises a body, the body having a washing cavity and a liquid flow path communicated with the washing cavity; a water quality detector provided on the body and comprising a plurality of electrodes, the number of the electrodes being greater than or equal to three, any two electrodes of the plurality of electrodes being formed into an electrode pair, any electrode pair being used to detect the conductivity of liquid at least one of the washing cavity and the liquid flow path, and the body being adapted to work according to the detection result of the water quality detector. According to the dishwasher of the embodiment of the application, the conductivity of liquid at least one of the washing cavity and the liquid flow path is detected by the water quality detector, the body can work according to the detection result of the water quality detector, the washing time, the rinsing time and the rinsing times can be flexibly adjusted, the intelligent control of the dishwasher can be realized, water is not easily wasted, the washing effect on tableware is better, and the detection precision of the water quality detector is higher and the detection function is more reliable.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of dishwasher technology, and more specifically, to a dishwasher and a method for controlling a dishwasher. Background Technology

[0002] A dishwasher is a machine that uses chemical, mechanical, thermal, and electrical methods to wash, rinse, and dry tableware such as bowls, plates, glassware, cutlery, and cooking utensils. However, in many dishwashers, the washing modes are fixed and cannot be flexibly adjusted according to the quantity and volume of the tableware, which can easily lead to water waste or incomplete cleaning. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. Therefore, one object of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher with an adjustable washing mode, which can be flexibly adjusted according to the quantity and volume of the dishes to be washed, minimizing water waste and achieving good cleaning results.

[0004] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a dishwasher.

[0005] A dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a body having a washing chamber and a liquid flow path communicating with the washing chamber; a water quality detector disposed in the body and including a plurality of electrodes, the number of electrodes being greater than or equal to three, any two of the plurality of electrodes forming an electrode pair, any electrode pair being usable for detecting the conductivity of a liquid at least at one location in the washing chamber and the liquid flow path, the body being adapted to operate according to the detection result of the water quality detector.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the dishwasher uses a water quality detector to detect the conductivity of the liquid at at least one location in the washing chamber and the liquid flow path. This enables the machine to operate based on the detection results of the water quality detector, flexibly adjusting the washing time, rinsing time, and rinsing cycles according to the conductivity of the liquid inside the dishwasher. This makes the dishwasher's washing mode adjustable, enabling intelligent control of the dishwasher, reducing water waste, improving the washing effect on tableware, and ensuring high detection accuracy and reliable detection function of the water quality detector.

[0007] In addition, the dishwasher according to the above embodiments of the present invention may also have the following additional technical features:

[0008] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the water quality detector includes a detector body, and a plurality of electrodes are disposed at one end of the detector body, wherein the plurality of electrodes are distributed in a regular polygonal pattern, or the plurality of electrodes are arranged at intervals along a straight line; and / or the distance between any two adjacent electrodes is 1 mm to 20 mm.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the present invention, in any two electrode pairs, one electrode pair has a larger measurable conductivity range and the distance between the two electrodes in the electrode pair is D1, and the other electrode pair has a smaller measurable conductivity range and the distance between the two electrodes in the electrode pair is D2, where D1≥D2.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, there are three electrodes, which are disposed at one end of the detector body and spaced apart along a straight line; or, there are four electrodes, which are disposed at one end of the detector body and distributed in a regular quadrilateral shape.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the dishwasher further includes a plurality of load resistors, the plurality of load resistors being connected in series with the plurality of electrode pairs respectively; or, the dishwasher further includes at least one load resistor, any of the load resistors being adapted to be connected in series with any of the plurality of electrode pairs.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the liquid flow path includes a circulation flow path and an inlet flow path. The inlet flow path is connected to the washing chamber and is used to supply water to the washing chamber. The washing chamber is connected to both ends of the circulation flow path so that the liquid circulates between the washing chamber and the circulation flow path. The water quality detector is provided at least one of the inlet flow path, the washing chamber, and the circulation flow path; or, the water quality detector is provided at least one of the washing chamber and the circulation flow path, and at the inlet flow path.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the liquid flow path includes a circulation flow path, the washing chamber is connected to both ends of the circulation flow path, the dishwasher further includes a circulation pump, the circulation pump is disposed in the circulation flow path, the circulation pump is used to drive the liquid to circulate between the washing chamber and the circulation flow path, and the circulation flow path is provided with the water quality detector.

[0014] A dishwasher control method according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: detecting the conductivity of a liquid by means of a plurality of electrode pairs respectively; calculating an average value of the plurality of conductivity values, wherein the average value is the detection result of the water quality detector.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the dishwasher includes a plurality of load resistors, the plurality of load resistors having different resistance values, and the control method includes: detecting initial conductivity through any of the electrode pairs; determining the conductivity range in which the initial conductivity falls, and selecting the load resistor corresponding to the conductivity range, wherein the higher the conductivity range, the smaller the resistance value of the load resistor; and performing conductivity detection.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, at least two of the electrode pairs have different electrode spacings. Before performing conductivity detection, the control method further includes: determining the conductivity range in which the initial conductivity is located, and selecting the electrode pair corresponding to the conductivity range, wherein, in two adjacent conductivity ranges, the electrode spacing corresponding to the lower conductivity range is less than or equal to the electrode spacing corresponding to the higher conductivity range.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, conductivity detection includes: connecting the load resistor in series with a plurality of electrode pairs and detecting the conductivity of the liquid; calculating the average value of the plurality of conductivity values, wherein the average value is the detection result of the water quality detector.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the control method includes: during the detection of the conductivity of a liquid by any of the electrode pairs, controlling the polarity alternation of two corresponding electrodes, wherein controlling the polarity alternation of the two corresponding electrodes includes: controlling one electrode as an anode and the other electrode as a cathode and detecting a first conductivity; controlling one electrode as a cathode and the other electrode as an anode and detecting a second conductivity; and calculating the average value of the first conductivity and the second conductivity to obtain the conductivity of the liquid.

[0019] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 2 This is a front view of a water quality detector according to a first embodiment of the present invention, wherein the electrodes are cylindrical electrodes, and the number of electrodes is three and they are arranged in a regular triangular shape;

[0023] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Side view;

[0024] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 Top view;

[0025] Figure 5 This is a front view of a water quality detector according to a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the electrodes are cylindrical electrodes, and the number of electrodes is four and they are arranged in a regular quadrilateral shape;

[0026] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Side view;

[0027] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 Top view;

[0028] Figure 8 This is a front view of a water quality detector according to a third embodiment of the present invention, wherein the electrodes are cylindrical electrodes, and the number of electrodes is three and they are arranged at intervals along a straight line;

[0029] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Side view;

[0030] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 Top view;

[0031] Figure 11 This is a front view of a water quality detector according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, wherein the electrodes are sheet electrodes;

[0032] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 Side view;

[0033] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 Top view;

[0034] Figure 14 This is a flowchart of a control method according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of a control method according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of a control method according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 17 This is a flowchart of a control method according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure label:

[0039] Dishwasher 100; Dishware 200;

[0040] Body 10; Washing chamber 11; Liquid flow path 12; Circulation flow path 121; Liquid inlet flow path 122; Liquid outlet flow path 123;

[0041] Water quality detector 20; detector body 21; electrode 22; first electrode 221; second electrode 222; third electrode 223;

[0042] 41. Inlet valve; 42. Breather; 43. Water softener; 44. Spray arm; 45. Dish rack; 46. Circulation pump; 47. Filter element; 48. Inner tank. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0044] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this invention.

[0045] In the description of this invention, "first feature" and "second feature" may include one or more of the features, "multiple" means two or more, "above" or "below" the second feature may include the first and second features being in direct contact, or the first and second features being in contact through another feature between them, and "above," "over," and "on top" the second feature may include the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicate that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature.

[0046] A dishwasher 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0047] Reference Figures 1-13 As shown, the dishwasher 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a body 10 and a water quality detector 20.

[0048] Specifically, the body 10 has a washing chamber 11 and a liquid flow path 12 communicating with the washing chamber 11. The washing chamber 11 is used to hold tableware 200, and the liquid flow path 12 can be used to introduce liquid into the washing chamber 11 to wash the tableware 200, and can also be used to drain liquid such as dirty water after washing from the washing chamber 11. The liquid introduced into the washing chamber 11 and the liquid present in the washing chamber 11 can be tap water or municipal water, a mixture of tap water and detergent, or a mixture of detergent and grease, etc., so that the tableware 200 can be washed with detergent and rinsed with tap water. The detergent can be dishwashing powder, etc.

[0049] For example, in some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the dishwasher 100 includes a body 10, an inner tub 48, and a dish rack 45. The inner tub 48 is disposed within the body 10 and defines a washing chamber 11. The dish rack 45 is disposed within the washing chamber 11 for holding tableware 200. The liquid flow path 12 includes an inlet flow path 122, a circulation flow path 121, and an outlet flow path 123. The inlet flow path 122 connects to a water source and the washing chamber 11 to allow liquid to enter the washing chamber 11. Both ends of the circulation flow path 121 are connected to the washing chamber 11 to allow liquid to circulate between the washing chamber 11 and the circulation flow path 121, which facilitates the reuse of liquid in the washing chamber 11 to rinse the tableware, resulting in higher water utilization, higher washing efficiency, and water conservation. The outlet flow path 123 connects the washing chamber 11 and a drain outlet to drain the dirty water from the washing chamber 11 after washing the tableware 200.

[0050] A water quality detector 20 is disposed on the body 10 and includes multiple electrodes 22, with the number of electrodes 22 being greater than or equal to three. Any two electrodes 22 form an electrode pair. Any electrode pair can be used to detect the conductivity of the liquid at at least one location in the washing chamber 11 and the liquid flow path 12. The body 10 can operate based on the detection results of the water quality detector 20. The water quality detector 20 is used to detect the water quality of the liquid, such as its conductivity. The water quality detector 20 can be a sensor for detecting the conductivity of the liquid.

[0051] Electrical conductivity is a physical quantity that measures the electrical conductivity of a substance. In liquids, conductivity reflects the concentration of dissolved ions, and its level is directly related to the content of dissolved salts and other electrolytes. Specifically, conductivity can be determined by placing electrodes 22 in an aqueous solution and detecting the current passing through these electrodes 22. The higher the conductivity, the more dissolved ions are in the water, and the stronger the conductivity. This can be understood as follows: the purer the liquid, the lower the conductivity; the more turbid the liquid, the higher the conductivity. For example, the conductivity of tap water is generally 100 μs / cm to 200 μs / cm (unit: microsiemens / cm), while the conductivity of a mixture of tap water and detergent is generally 9000 μs / cm to 10000 μs / cm. The conductivity of tap water is much lower than that of detergent water.

[0052] It should be noted that in this application, for the same electrode 22, in the process of forming an electrode pair with other different electrodes 22 to detect the conductivity of the liquid, the electrode 22 can act as an anode or a cathode. That is, the same electrode 22 can act as an anode in an electrode pair formed with one electrode 22 and as a cathode in an electrode pair formed with another electrode 22, so that in the process of detecting the conductivity of the liquid, one of the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair can act as an anode and the other as a cathode.

[0053] The dishwasher 100 operates through a washing process, a rinsing process, and a drying process. During the washing process, liquid is introduced into the washing chamber 11, creating a mixture of tap water and detergent, to wash the dishes 200. During the rinsing process, tap water is repeatedly introduced into and drained from the washing chamber 11 to rinse the dishes 200 multiple times until they are clean. During the drying process, moisture is removed from the surface of the dishes 200.

[0054] The water quality detector 20 is used to detect the electrical conductivity of the liquid at at least one location in the washing chamber 11 and the liquid flow path 12. For example, in some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the water quality detector 20 can be installed in the liquid inlet flow path 122 to detect the conductivity of tap water during the water inlet process, that is, to detect the initial water quality when water is introduced into the washing chamber 11. The water quality detector 20 can also be installed in the washing chamber 11 or the circulation flow path 121 to detect the conductivity of tap water during the water inlet process, the conductivity of washing water during the washing process, and the conductivity of rinsing water during the rinsing process.

[0055] The harder the tap water, the longer the washing and rinsing time, and the more rinses required. Detecting the conductivity of the tap water to obtain the initial water quality allows for adjustments to the washing time, rinsing time, and number of rinses based on the water quality. For example, in southern regions where water is softer and in northern regions where water is harder, users in the south using the dishwasher 100 can automatically select a shorter washing time, rinsing time, and fewer rinses via the water quality detector 20. Conversely, users in the north can automatically select a longer washing time, rinsing time, and more rinses via the water quality detector 20.

[0056] Testing the conductivity of tap water facilitates the assessment of various scenarios, such as using different sizes of dishwashers 100 and different water sources. It allows the use of the tap water conductivity during dishwasher 100 operation as a standard, comparing the conductivity of the washing water with that of tap water, and comparing the conductivity of the rinsing water with that of tap water, to determine whether the dishes 200 are clean. Alternatively, the conductivity can be directly set as the standard in the water quality detector 20, eliminating the need to test the tap water conductivity and simplifying the testing process.

[0057] During the washing process, the conductivity of the washing water is detected. The washing time can be adjusted based on the results from the water quality detector 20. For example, if the difference between the conductivity of the washing water and the conductivity of tap water is repeatedly detected to be greater than a first predetermined value, the washing is considered complete and the washing process stops. During the rinsing process, the conductivity of the rinsing water is detected. The number of rinsing cycles can be adjusted based on the results from the water quality detector 20. For example, if the difference between the conductivity of the washing water and the conductivity of tap water is repeatedly detected to be less than a second predetermined value, the tableware 200 is considered clean and the rinsing process can stop. The first and second predetermined values ​​can be determined based on actual conditions, such as through research and development experiments; this application does not impose any restrictions.

[0058] There can be one or more water quality detectors 20. For example, in some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, there are three water quality detectors 20. One water quality detector 20 is located in the liquid inlet flow path 122 to detect the conductivity of tap water. One water quality detector 20 is located in the washing chamber 11 to detect the conductivity of the liquid during the water inlet process, the washing process and the rinsing process. One water quality detector 20 is located in the circulation flow path 121 to detect the conductivity of the liquid during the water inlet process, the washing process and the rinsing process.

[0059] In some embodiments, the water quality detector 20 is a single unit located in the circulation path 121, with both ends of the circulation path 121 connected to the washing chamber 11. The water quality detector 20 can detect the initial water quality when tap water is introduced into the washing chamber 11 but no detergent is introduced. The water quality detector 20 can also detect the water quality of the washing water and the rinsing water during the washing and rinsing processes. The number of water quality detectors 20 is small, resulting in better economic efficiency.

[0060] In some related technologies, dishwashers have fixed washing modes, such as fixed washing time, rinsing time, and number of rinsing cycles. They cannot flexibly adjust the washing time, rinsing time, and number of rinsing cycles according to the water quality of the liquid inside the dishwasher, and therefore cannot achieve intelligent control.

[0061] In this application, the water quality detector 20 can detect the conductivity of the liquid at least at one point in the washing chamber 11 and the liquid flow path 12, thereby monitoring the conductivity of the liquid in the dishwasher 100 and enabling the machine body 10 to flexibly adjust the washing mode based on the detection results of the water quality detector 20, such as adjusting the washing time, rinsing time and number of rinsing cycles.

[0062] In addition, during the operation of the dishwasher 100, there may be a large amount of alkaline components (such as detergent components), grease, protein, scale and other contaminants in the washing chamber 11. These contaminants can easily come into contact with the electrode 22 or even condense on the surface of the electrode 22, causing contamination of the electrode 22. Contaminants can also easily cause air bubbles to adhere to the electrode 22 or cause the electrode 22 to be corroded, resulting in damage to the electrode 22. Problems such as contamination or damage to the electrode 22 can lead to a failure of the electrode, which will reduce the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20.

[0063] In this application, the water quality detector 20 has three or more electrodes 22, and any two electrodes 22 form an electrode pair, thus the water quality detector 20 includes multiple electrode pairs. At least one of the multiple electrode pairs can be selectively used, and even if a faulty electrode exists, a non-faulty electrode can be used, which helps reduce the utilization rate of faulty electrodes, improves the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20, makes the water quality detection function of the water quality detector 20 less prone to failure, and makes the detection function more reliable.

[0064] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the dishwasher 100 detects the conductivity of the liquid at least at one location in the washing chamber 11 and the liquid flow path 12 using a water quality detector 20. This enables the machine body 10 to operate based on the detection results of the water quality detector 20, flexibly adjusting the washing time, rinsing time, and rinsing times according to the conductivity of the liquid inside the dishwasher 100. This makes the washing mode of the dishwasher 100 adjustable, enabling intelligent control of the dishwasher 100, reducing water waste, improving the washing effect on the tableware 200, and ensuring that the water quality detector 20 has high detection accuracy and reliable detection function.

[0065] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 As shown, the washing chamber 11 is equipped with a water quality detector 20, which facilitates the detection of the liquid's conductivity during the water intake process, washing process, and rinsing process.

[0066] During the same dishwashing process, the water quality may differ in different areas of the dishwasher 100. For example, the conductivity of the liquid in the inlet flow path 122 and the washing chamber 11 may differ. The contaminants in the washing chamber 11 may also differ during different dishwashing processes. For example, the grease and residue on the surface of the tableware 200 may differ. The amount and type of detergent added to the washing chamber 11 may also differ. Furthermore, the water quality of the liquid inside the dishwasher 100 differs under low-temperature and high-temperature washing conditions, making it impossible to predict the water quality within the dishwasher.

[0067] In some related technologies, dishwashers have fixed washing modes and cannot flexibly adjust washing time and rinsing times in real time according to the water quality inside the dishwasher, thus failing to achieve intelligent control. For example, when there are few or small dishes to be washed, there may be less contaminant in the washing chamber, requiring a shorter washing time and fewer rinsing times. However, a fixed washing mode cannot shorten the washing time or reduce the number of rinsing times, easily wasting water. Conversely, when there are many or large dishes to be washed, there may be more contaminant in the washing chamber, requiring a longer washing time and more rinsing times. However, a fixed washing mode cannot extend the washing time or increase the number of rinsing times, easily resulting in dishes not being cleaned properly.

[0068] In this application, the water quality detector 20 can detect the conductivity of the liquid in the washing chamber 11, thereby enabling real-time monitoring of the conductivity of the liquid in the dishwasher 100 and allowing the machine body 10 to flexibly adjust the washing mode in real time based on the detection results of the water quality detector 20.

[0069] For example, if the number or size of the dishes 200 to be washed is small, there may be less contaminant in the washing chamber 11, and the detection result of the water quality detector 20 will be low. The machine body 10 can shorten the washing time and reduce the number of rinses based on the detection result, thus avoiding water waste. Conversely, if the number or size of the dishes 200 to be washed is large, there may be more contaminant in the washing chamber 11, and the detection result of the water quality detector 20 will be high. The machine body 10 can extend the washing time and increase the number of rinses based on the detection result, resulting in a better washing effect on the dishes 200.

[0070] Water quality monitoring during the water intake, washing, and rinsing processes of the dishwasher 100 is crucial for its intelligent control and is fundamental to ensuring thorough cleaning and rinsing. This application utilizes a water quality detector 20 to detect the conductivity of tap water during the water intake process, the conductivity of washing water during the washing process, and the conductivity of rinsing water during the rinsing process. This enables water quality monitoring during these processes, facilitating intelligent control of the dishwasher 100.

[0071] Therefore, this application can flexibly adjust the washing mode according to the number of dishes 200 to be washed, the volume of dishes 200 to be washed, or the amount of detergent used, which is conducive to realizing intelligent control.

[0072] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1As shown, the circulation path 121 is equipped with a water quality detector 20. Both ends of the circulation path 121 are connected to the washing chamber 11, which facilitates the detection of the conductivity of the liquid during the water intake process, washing process and rinsing process, and realizes real-time monitoring of the conductivity of the liquid in the dishwasher 100. This allows the dishwasher 100 to flexibly adjust the washing mode according to the number of dishes 200 to be washed, the volume of dishes 200 to be washed or the amount of detergent used, which is conducive to realizing intelligent control.

[0073] For example, during the operation of the dishwasher 100, tap water is first introduced into the washing chamber 11. At this time, tap water is introduced into both the washing chamber 11 and the circulation path 121. The water quality detector 20 at the circulation path 121 can detect the conductivity of the tap water. Then, detergent is introduced into the washing chamber 11, so that the liquid in the washing chamber 11 is a mixture of tap water and detergent. The water quality detector 20 at the circulation path 121 can detect the conductivity of the washing water, so that the machine body 10 can control the washing time based on the detection results. After that, the washing water is drained, and tap water is repeatedly introduced into the washing chamber 11 to rinse the dishes 200, so that the liquid in the washing chamber 11 is the rinsing water. The rinsing water circulates between the washing chamber 11 and the circulation path 121 to repeatedly clean the dishes 200. The water quality detector 20 at the circulation path 121 can detect the conductivity of the rinsing water, so that the machine body 10 can control the rinsing time and the number of rinsing cycles based on the detection results.

[0074] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the liquid inlet flow path 122 is equipped with a water quality detector 20, which facilitates the detection of the conductivity of the liquid during the water inlet process, and realizes the monitoring of the water quality of the dishwasher 100, such as monitoring the hardness of the water quality, so that the machine body 10 can flexibly adjust the washing mode according to the detection results of the water quality detector 20.

[0075] During the process of supplying water to the washing chamber 11, contaminants such as grease on the tableware 200 may fall into the tap water in the washing chamber 11. If the conductivity of the tap water is detected by a water quality detector 20 at least once in the washing chamber 11 and the circulation path 121, the detection results may be inaccurate. However, this application can detect the conductivity of the tap water in the inlet flow path 122 by using a water quality detector 20 located in the inlet flow path 122, reducing the influence of other impurities such as contaminants in the washing chamber 11, and thus achieving higher accuracy in detecting the conductivity of the tap water.

[0076] By detecting the conductivity of tap water, such as its hardness, the machine body 10 can flexibly adjust the washing time, rinsing time, and number of rinsing cycles based on the detection results of the water quality detector 20, thus achieving intelligent control of the dishwasher 100.

[0077] In embodiments where a water quality detector 20 is provided at least at one of the washing chamber 11 and the circulation flow path 121 and the liquid inlet flow path 122, such as Figure 1 As shown, the conductivity of tap water detected by the liquid inlet flow path 122 can be used as a standard to evaluate the conductivity of the liquid in the washing chamber 11 during the washing and rinsing processes. This allows the dishwasher 100 to accurately control the washing time and the number of rinses to achieve intelligent control, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the conductivity of tap water. This is beneficial to improving the accuracy of the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100, reducing water consumption, and improving the cleaning effect.

[0078] This application allows for the installation of a water quality detector 20 in the washing chamber 11, in the circulation flow path 121, in both the washing chamber 11 and the circulation flow path 121, in both the washing chamber 11 and the liquid inlet flow path 122, in both the circulation flow path 121 and the liquid inlet flow path 122, or in the washing chamber 11, the circulation flow path 121, and the liquid inlet flow path 122.

[0079] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the dishwasher 100 also includes a circulation pump 46, which is located in the circulation flow path 121. The circulation pump 46 is used to drive the liquid to circulate between the washing chamber 11 and the circulation flow path 121. The circulation flow path 121 is equipped with a water quality detector 20.

[0080] A flexible hose can be used to connect the circulation pump 46 to the outlet end of the washing chamber 11, which communicates with the circulation flow path 121, and to the inlet end of the circulation pump 46 and the washing chamber 11, which also communicates with the circulation flow path 121. This allows both ends of the circulation flow path 121 to communicate with the washing chamber 11, and the circulation pump 46 to be positioned within the circulation flow path 121, facilitating its installation. A water quality detector 20 can be positioned between the circulation pump 46 and the outlet end of the washing chamber 11, which communicates with the circulation flow path 121 (e.g., ...). Figure 1 (As shown), it can also be located between the inlet end of the circulating pump 46 and the washing chamber 11, which is connected to the circulating flow path 121.

[0081] The water quality detector 20 can be located between the water outlet of the washing chamber 11 and the circulation pump 46, and the water outlet of the washing chamber 11 connected to the circulation flow path 121 is at the bottom of the washing chamber 11, so that the height of the hose is as low as possible, so that the part of the hose where the water quality detector 20 is installed is filled with water, so that the electrode 22 can be immersed in the liquid, which facilitates the installation of the water quality detector 20 and facilitates the water quality detector 20 to detect the conductivity of the liquid.

[0082] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-13As shown, the water quality detector 20 includes a detector body 21 and a plurality of electrodes 22 disposed at one end of the detector body 21, so that the electrodes 22 at one end of the detector body 21 can be disposed in the liquid at least one of the washing chamber 11 and the liquid flow path 12. For example, the electrodes 22 can be disposed in the liquid flow path 12 or the washing chamber 11 to detect the conductivity of the liquid, which is convenient for installation.

[0083] In some embodiments, such as Figures 2-7 As shown, the multiple electrodes 22 are distributed in a regular polygon, which makes full use of the installation space at one end of the detector body 21, reduces the area occupied by the multiple electrodes 22, and makes it easier to separate any two electrodes 22 by a certain distance, reducing the risk of short circuit problems caused by contact between adjacent electrodes 22, thus ensuring good safety.

[0084] For example, in some specific embodiments, such as Figures 2-4 As shown, the multiple electrodes 22 are arranged in three regular triangles, forming three electrode pairs. The spacing between the two electrodes 22 in each of the three electrode pairs in the water quality detector 20 is equal. Electrode pairs with different spacing between their electrodes 22 have different detection accuracies for liquid conductivity within different conductivity ranges. The larger the spacing between the two electrodes 22 in an electrode pair, the higher the detection accuracy for the conductivity range of liquids within that higher conductivity range. A higher conductivity range refers to a range where the conductivity value is larger. The side length of the regular triangle can be adjusted according to the conductivity range of the liquid, i.e., the spacing between any two electrodes 22 can be adjusted to ensure higher detection accuracy for any electrode pair within that range, thus improving the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for conductivity within that range.

[0085] For example, in some specific embodiments, such as Figures 5-7 As shown, there are four electrodes 22 arranged in a regular quadrilateral, forming six electrode pairs. The spacing between the two electrodes 22 in each of the four electrode pairs of the water quality detector 20 is equal, and the spacing between the two electrodes 22 in each of the other two electrode pairs is also equal. The spacing between the four electrode pairs is unequal to the spacing between the other two electrode pairs. The side length of the quadrilateral can be adjusted according to the conductivity range of the liquid, i.e., the spacing between the four electrodes 22 can be adjusted. Electrode pairs with different spacing between the two electrodes 22 can be used to detect the conductivity of liquids within different conductivity ranges, thus improving the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for the conductivity of liquids within different conductivity ranges.

[0086] In other embodiments, such as Figures 8-13As shown, multiple electrodes 22 are arranged at intervals along a straight line. Under the premise that the area of ​​one end of the detector body 21 is fixed, the distance between the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair of the water quality detector 20 can be increased as much as possible. That is, the distance between the electrodes 22 at both ends arranged at intervals along a straight line is maximized, so that the water quality detector 20 has higher detection accuracy for the conductivity of liquids in a wider range of conductivity.

[0087] In some embodiments, such as Figures 2-13 As shown, the distance 'a' between any two adjacent electrodes 22 is 1 mm to 20 mm. The distance 'a' between any two adjacent electrodes 22 is the minimum distance between the surfaces of these two electrodes 22, such as... Figures 2-13 As indicated by dimension a in the diagram. Direct contact between different electrodes 22 would cause a short circuit in the water quality detector 20, therefore, different electrodes 22 cannot make direct contact. However, if the spacing a is too small, and the requirement that different electrodes 22 cannot make direct contact would make the manufacturing of the water quality detector 20 too difficult, hindering its widespread use; conversely, if the spacing a is too large, the water quality detector 20 would be too bulky, placing excessive demands on the installation space required for it in the dishwasher 100, making installation difficult. This application uses a spacing a of 1mm to 20mm, which helps reduce the manufacturing difficulty and installation space requirements of the water quality detector 20, making the dishwasher 100 of this application easier to promote and use. For example, the spacing a can be 1mm, 10mm, or 20mm.

[0088] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 7 , Figure 10 and Figure 13 As shown, in any two electrode pairs, one electrode pair has a larger measurable conductivity range and the distance between the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair is D1, and the other electrode pair has a smaller measurable conductivity range and the distance between the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair is D2, where D1≥D2.

[0089] The greater the distance between the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair, the higher the detection accuracy of the electrode pair for the conductivity of liquids within a higher conductivity range. This application utilizes an electrode pair with a larger distance between the two electrodes 22 to detect the conductivity of liquids within a higher conductivity range, and uses an electrode pair with a smaller distance between the two electrodes 22 to detect the conductivity of liquids within a lower conductivity range, which is beneficial to improving the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for the conductivity of liquids within different conductivity ranges.

[0090] For example, in some embodiments, such as Figures 8-13As shown, there are three electrodes 22, which are located at one end of the detector body 21 and spaced apart along a straight line. The electrodes 22 at both ends have the largest spacing, while the spacing between the middle electrode and the two end electrodes can be equal or unequal, forming three electrode pairs. By using electrode pairs with the same or different spacing between the two electrodes 22, the conductivity of liquids within different conductivity ranges can be detected, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for the conductivity of liquids within different conductivity ranges.

[0091] For example, in some embodiments, such as Figures 5-7 As shown, there are four electrodes 22, which are located at one end of the detector body 21 and arranged in a regular quadrilateral shape. The distance between any two adjacent electrodes 22 is equal, and the distance between any two electrodes 22 located diagonally is equal. The distance between two diagonally located electrodes 22 is greater than the distance between two adjacent electrodes 22, forming six electrode pairs. These electrode pairs, with or without the same or different spacing, are used to detect the conductivity of liquids within different conductivity ranges, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for the conductivity of liquids within different conductivity ranges.

[0092] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-13 As shown, there are three or four electrodes 22. With only two electrodes 22, if one electrode 22 malfunctions (e.g., is covered by contaminants), the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 is significantly reduced, potentially leading to malfunctions in the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100, such as excessively long washing times or too many rinses. Too many electrodes 22 result in an overly complex structure and high manufacturing cost for the water quality detector 20, leading to a large size, high installation space requirements, and significant installation difficulty. In contrast, the water quality detector 20 in this application has three or four electrodes 22. Even if one electrode 22 malfunctions, the other two malfunctioning electrodes can form an electrode pair to detect the liquid's conductivity, ensuring the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20. This reduces the likelihood of malfunctions in the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100, and the water quality detector 20 remains compact, with lower installation difficulty and manufacturing costs, making it easier to implement.

[0093] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-10 As shown, electrode 22 is a cylindrical electrode. The cylindrical shape of electrode 22 is relatively easy to process and manufacture.

[0094] In other embodiments, such as Figures 11-13 As shown, electrode 22 is a sheet-like electrode, and multiple sheet-like electrodes are spaced apart along the thickness direction. The thickness direction is the arrangement direction of the two surfaces of the sheet-like electrodes that are least separated by each other. For example... Figures 11-13As shown, the thickness direction of the sheet electrode is parallel to the left-right direction in the figure, and multiple sheet electrodes are spaced apart along the left-right direction. The sheet electrode has a large surface area and a large contact area with the liquid, resulting in higher accuracy in detecting the conductivity of the liquid.

[0095] In some embodiments of the present invention, the dishwasher 100 further includes a plurality of load resistors, which are connected in series with a plurality of electrode pairs. The number of load resistors can be two, three or more, and the resistance value of the load resistors can be from 200 ohms to 5000 ohms.

[0096] When the same electrode pair is connected in series with load resistors of different resistance values, the smaller the resistance value of the load resistor, the higher the detection accuracy of the electrode pair for the conductivity range of liquids within a higher conductivity range. This allows multiple electrode pairs connected in series with multiple load resistors to be used to detect the conductivity of liquids within different conductivity ranges, thus improving the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for the conductivity of liquids within different conductivity ranges.

[0097] The specific form of the load resistor can be determined according to the actual circuit wiring diagram. For example, each load resistor connected in series with the electrode pair consists of multiple specific resistors, and the resistance value of the load resistor connected in series with each electrode pair can be determined.

[0098] In other embodiments, the dishwasher 100 further includes at least one load resistor, which can be connected in series with any of the plurality of electrode pairs. Allowing the same load resistor to be optionally connected in series with any electrode pair enables the selection of the electrode pair connected in series with the selected load resistor to detect the conductivity of the liquid through that electrode pair. For example, the electrode pair can be selected based on the correspondence between the distance between the two electrodes 22 and the conductivity range, which helps improve the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for the conductivity of liquids within different conductivity ranges.

[0099] like Figure 14 As shown, the control method of the dishwasher 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0100] S11: The conductivity of the liquid is detected by multiple electrode pairs.

[0101] The water quality detector 20 includes multiple electrodes 22, and any two electrodes 22 form an electrode pair, so that the water quality detector 20 includes multiple electrode pairs. Each electrode pair can detect the conductivity of the liquid to obtain a conductivity. Multiple conductivity values ​​are obtained by detecting the conductivity of the liquid through multiple electrode pairs.

[0102] S12: Calculate the average value of multiple conductivity values, which is the detection result of water quality detector 20.

[0103] The conductivity values ​​obtained from multiple electrode pairs are added together and divided by the number of electrode pairs to obtain the average conductivity value, which is then used by the body 10 to operate based on this average value.

[0104] By averaging the aforementioned multiple conductivity values ​​for each electrode 22, the detection error of the water quality detector 20 can be reduced, thereby improving its detection accuracy. Even in the event of a faulty electrode, compared to using the conductivity detected by the electrode pair with the faulty electrode as the detection result, this application uses the average of multiple conductivity values ​​as the detection result, which can reduce the adverse effects of potential faulty electrodes and improve the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20.

[0105] Since the dishwasher 100 according to the embodiments of the present invention has the above-mentioned beneficial technical effects, the control method of the dishwasher 100 according to the embodiments of the present invention detects the conductivity of the liquid at least one of the washing chamber 11 and the liquid flow path 12 by the water quality detector 20, so that the machine body 10 can work according to the detection result of the water quality detector 20, so as to flexibly adjust the washing time, rinsing time and rinsing times according to the conductivity of the liquid in the dishwasher 100, making the washing mode of the dishwasher 100 adjustable, realizing the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100, not wasting water, and having a better washing effect on the tableware 200. Moreover, the water quality detector 20 has high detection accuracy and reliable detection function.

[0106] In some embodiments, such as Figure 14 As shown, the control method also includes:

[0107] S13: Calculate the difference between the maximum and minimum conductivity among multiple conductivity values, and issue a prompt message when the difference is greater than a set multiple of the minimum conductivity.

[0108] The set multiplier can be determined based on specific factors such as the volume of the washing chamber 11. For example, the set multiplier can be 1 to 2 times, such as 1.1 times, 1.5 times, or 2 times. If the difference is greater than the set multiplier of the minimum conductivity, it can be determined that the water quality detector has malfunctioned. If a faulty electrode is found, a prompt message will be issued to the user so that the user can contact a technician for repair. The prompt message can be issued after the dishwasher 100 has completed the washing operation or during the washing operation. The prompt message can be issued on the dishwasher's display screen or on a mobile device connected to the dishwasher 100. The timing and platform for issuing the prompt message are not limited, as long as it can alert the user.

[0109] like Figure 15 As shown, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the dishwasher 100 includes a plurality of load resistors, the plurality of load resistors having different resistance values. The control method includes:

[0110] S21: Detect the initial conductivity using any electrode pair.

[0111] The water quality detector 20 includes multiple electrodes 22, and any two electrodes 22 form an electrode pair, so that the water quality detector 20 includes multiple electrode pairs. The conductivity of the liquid is detected through any one electrode pair, and the conductivity is recorded as the initial conductivity.

[0112] S22: Determine the conductivity range of the initial conductivity and select the load resistor corresponding to that conductivity range. The higher the conductivity range, the smaller the load resistor value.

[0113] The conductivity measurement range can be determined based on the conductivity of different liquids. For example, the conductivity of tap water is generally 100 μs / cm to 200 μs / cm, while the conductivity of washing water mixed with detergent is generally 9000 μs / cm to 10000 μs / cm. 0 μs / cm to 1000 μs / cm can be considered the low-range conductivity measurement range, 1000 μs / cm to 3000 μs / cm the medium-range conductivity measurement range, and greater than 3000 μs / cm the high-range conductivity measurement range.

[0114] When the same electrode pair is connected in series with load resistors of different resistance values, the smaller the resistance of the load resistor, the higher the detection accuracy of the liquid conductivity within a higher conductivity range. A load resistor with a smaller resistance value can be assigned to a higher conductivity range, and a load resistor with a larger resistance value can be assigned to a lower conductivity range. For example, if the initial conductivity is determined to be within a higher conductivity range, a load resistor with a smaller resistance value should be selected.

[0115] S24: Conduct conductivity testing.

[0116] By selecting a load resistor and connecting it in series with any electrode pair, the conductivity of the liquid can be detected through that electrode pair.

[0117] Different load resistor values ​​correspond to different conductivity ranges. Since different liquids may fall within different conductivity ranges, selecting load resistors of varying values ​​based on the initial conductivity range and connecting them in series with any electrode pair allows for the detection of the liquid's conductivity through that electrode pair. This improves the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for liquids within different conductivity ranges. Furthermore, connecting the load resistor in series with any electrode pair to detect liquid conductivity reduces the utilization rate of each electrode 22, extending the lifespan of the water quality detector 20.

[0118] Since the dishwasher 100 according to the embodiments of the present invention has the above-mentioned beneficial technical effects, the control method of the dishwasher 100 according to the embodiments of the present invention detects the conductivity of the liquid at least one of the washing chamber 11 and the liquid flow path 12 by the water quality detector 20, so that the machine body 10 can work according to the detection result of the water quality detector 20, so as to flexibly adjust the washing time, rinsing time and rinsing times according to the conductivity of the liquid in the dishwasher 100, making the washing mode of the dishwasher 100 adjustable, realizing the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100, not wasting water, and having a better washing effect on the tableware 200. Moreover, the water quality detector 20 has high detection accuracy and reliable detection function.

[0119] In some embodiments, at least two electrode pairs have different spacing between their corresponding electrodes 22. For example... Figures 15-16 As shown, the control method further includes the following steps before conductivity detection:

[0120] S23: Determine the conductivity range within which the initial conductivity falls, and select the corresponding electrode pair for that conductivity range. Specifically, in two adjacent conductivity ranges, the electrode spacing 22 corresponding to the lower conductivity range is less than or equal to the electrode spacing 22 corresponding to the higher conductivity range.

[0121] Electrode pairs with different electrode spacings 22 have varying detection accuracies for liquid conductivity across different conductivity ranges. The larger the spacing between the two electrodes 22, the higher the detection accuracy for liquid conductivity within a higher conductivity range. Electrode pairs with larger spacing can be assigned to higher conductivity ranges, and those with smaller spacing to lower conductivity ranges. For example, if the initial conductivity is determined to be within a higher conductivity range, then an electrode pair with a larger electrode spacing 22 is selected.

[0122] Load resistors with different resistance values ​​correspond to different conductivity ranges. Electrode pairs with different spacing between the two electrodes 22 also correspond to different conductivity ranges. The conductivity ranges of different liquids may be different. Load resistors with different resistance values ​​are selected according to the conductivity range of the initial conductivity and connected in series with electrode pairs with different spacing between the two electrodes 22 so as to detect the conductivity of the liquid through the electrode pairs. This helps to improve the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for the conductivity of liquids in different conductivity ranges.

[0123] Of course, for two conductivity ranges with similar ranges, the spacing between the electrode pairs can also be equal, such that the spacing between the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair corresponding to the lower conductivity range is less than or equal to the spacing between the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair corresponding to the higher conductivity range.

[0124] It should be noted that steps S22 and S23 are not necessarily in any particular order. For example, in some embodiments, such as Figure 16 As shown, step S22 is performed first, followed by step S23. That is, the corresponding load resistor is selected according to the conductivity range of the initial conductivity, and then the electrode pair connected in series with the load resistor is selected according to the conductivity range of the initial conductivity. This allows the electrode pair connected in series with the load resistor to be changed while keeping the load resistor constant.

[0125] For example, in some embodiments, step S23 is performed first and then step S22 is performed. That is, the corresponding electrode pair is selected according to the conductivity range of the initial conductivity, and then the load resistor connected in series with the electrode pair is selected according to the conductivity range of the initial conductivity. This allows the load resistor connected in series with the electrode pair to be changed without changing the electrode pair. The order of each step in the control method is flexible and adjustable.

[0126] In some embodiments, such as Figure 15 and Figure 17 As shown, S24 includes:

[0127] S241: Connect the load resistor in series with multiple electrode pairs and detect the conductivity of the liquid.

[0128] Determine the conductivity range within which the initial conductivity falls, and select the corresponding load resistor based on this conductivity range. Connect the load resistor in series with multiple electrode pairs, and detect the conductivity of the liquid through the multiple electrode pairs to obtain multiple conductivity values.

[0129] S242: Calculate the average value of multiple conductivity values, which is the detection result of water quality detector 20.

[0130] The above multiple conductivity values ​​are added together and divided by the number of electrode pairs to obtain the average value of the multiple conductivity values, so that the body 10 can work according to the average value.

[0131] Selecting the appropriate load resistor based on the conductivity range of the initial conductivity can improve the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for liquids within that range. Furthermore, by averaging the multiple conductivity values ​​for each electrode 22, the detection error of the water quality detector 20 can be reduced, thus improving its detection accuracy. Even in the event of a faulty electrode, the potential adverse effects of the faulty electrode can be mitigated, further enhancing the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20.

[0132] The control method of the dishwasher 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0133] S3: During the detection of the conductivity of the liquid by any electrode pair, the polarity of the two corresponding electrodes 22 is controlled to alternate.

[0134] In this context, "any electrode pair" refers to any one of the multiple electrode pairs in the water quality detector 20, and "two corresponding electrodes 22" refers to the two electrodes 22 that form the electrode pair.

[0135] Polarity alternation refers to the process in which, during the operation of an electrode pair, one electrode 22 acts as the anode and the other electrode 22 acts as the cathode, measuring a conductivity that can be measured once or multiple times. Then, the polarity of the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair alternates, causing the electrode 22 that was originally acting as the anode to become the cathode, and vice versa, measuring another conductivity that can be measured once or multiple times. During the operation of an electrode pair, the polarity of the two electrodes 22 in the pair can be alternated once or multiple times.

[0136] Electrode pairs undergo electrode reactions in liquids. Prolonged operation of an electrode pair in a liquid can easily lead to contaminant formation on the surface of electrode 22. For example, deposits easily form on the surface of electrode 22 acting as the cathode, reducing its lifespan. This application addresses this by controlling the polarity alternation of the two electrodes 22 during operation. For instance, by switching the electrode 22 from cathode to anode, the deposits on its surface gradually dissolve. By controlling the polarity alternation of the two electrodes 22 in an electrode pair, the formation of contaminants on the electrode 22 surface can be effectively reduced, thus extending the lifespan of the electrodes 22 and consequently, the lifespan of the water quality detector 20.

[0137] Since the dishwasher 100 according to the embodiments of the present invention has the above-mentioned beneficial technical effects, the control method of the dishwasher 100 according to the embodiments of the present invention detects the conductivity of the liquid at least one of the washing chamber 11 and the liquid flow path 12 by the water quality detector 20, so that the machine body 10 can work according to the detection result of the water quality detector 20, so as to flexibly adjust the washing time, rinsing time and rinsing times according to the conductivity of the liquid in the dishwasher 100, making the washing mode of the dishwasher 100 adjustable, realizing the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100, not wasting water, and having a better washing effect on the tableware 200. Moreover, the water quality detector 20 has high detection accuracy and reliable detection function.

[0138] In some embodiments, "controlling the polarity alternation of the two electrodes 22" in S3 includes:

[0139] S31: Control one electrode 22 as the anode and the other electrode 22 as the cathode and detect the first conductivity.

[0140] In this step, the liquid can be tested once using this electrode to obtain the first conductivity, resulting in high detection efficiency. Alternatively, the liquid can be tested multiple times using this electrode to obtain multiple conductivity values, and the average of these multiple conductivity values ​​is calculated as the first conductivity. This helps reduce the detection error of the water quality detector 20, resulting in high detection accuracy.

[0141] S32: Control one electrode 22 as the cathode and the other electrode 22 as the anode and detect the second conductivity.

[0142] The electrode 22 that acts as the anode in S31 acts as the cathode in S32, and the electrode 22 that acts as the cathode in S31 acts as the anode in S32, thereby realizing one polarity alternation of the two electrodes 22 in an electrode pair.

[0143] Similarly, in this step, the liquid can be tested once using this electrode to obtain the second conductivity, thereby improving the detection efficiency; or the liquid can be tested multiple times using this electrode to obtain multiple conductivity values, and the average of these values ​​can be used to obtain the second conductivity, thereby improving the detection accuracy.

[0144] S33: Calculate the average of the first conductivity and the second conductivity to obtain the conductivity of the liquid.

[0145] The first conductivity and the second conductivity are added together and then divided by two to obtain the average value of the first conductivity and the second conductivity, so that the body 10 can work according to the average value.

[0146] In the process of detecting the conductivity of a liquid using any electrode pair, utilizing the two conductivity values ​​before and after the polarity alternation of the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair, instead of directly using the first or second conductivity value as the final conductivity, can reduce potential errors during the detection process and improve detection accuracy. The alternation of polarity between the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair can reduce the number of times each electrode 22 acts as an anode or cathode, thereby extending the service life of the electrodes 22.

[0147] In some embodiments, such as Figure 14 As shown, in step S11, the conductivity of the liquid is detected by multiple electrode pairs respectively. The polarity of the two electrodes 22 in each electrode pair can be controlled to alternate. The average value is calculated after the conductivity of the liquid is detected alternately, so that each electrode 22 will not always act as an anode or cathode, which helps to extend the service life of the electrode 22.

[0148] In some embodiments, such as Figures 15-16As shown, in step S21, the initial conductivity is detected by any electrode pair, and the polarity of the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair can be controlled to alternate. In step S24, conductivity detection is performed, and the polarity of the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair for detecting liquid conductivity can be controlled to alternate. The average value is calculated after alternating detection of liquid conductivity, which helps to extend the service life of electrode 22.

[0149] In some embodiments, such as Figure 17 As shown, in step S241, the load resistor is connected in series with multiple electrode pairs and the conductivity of the liquid is detected. The polarity of the two electrodes 22 in each electrode pair can be controlled to alternate, and the average value is calculated after alternating detection of the conductivity of the liquid, which helps to extend the service life of the electrodes 22.

[0150] The dishwasher 100 according to a first specific embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the following description is merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0151] like Figures 1-4 As shown, a dishwasher 100 according to a specific embodiment of the present invention includes a body 10, three water quality detectors 20, three load resistors, a water inlet valve 41, a breather 42, a water softener 43, two spray arms 44, a rack 45, a circulation pump 46, a filter element 47, and an inner tank 48.

[0152] The inner tank 48 is located inside the body 10 and defines the washing chamber 11. The body 10 has a liquid flow path 12 communicating with the washing chamber 11. A dish rack 45 is provided inside the washing chamber 11 for placing tableware 200. The liquid flow path 12 includes an inlet flow path 122, a circulation flow path 121, and an outlet flow path 123. The inlet flow path 122 connects the washing chamber 11 and a water source to supply water to the washing chamber 11. A water inlet valve 41 is located in the inlet flow path 122 to control the water inlet switch, flow rate, etc. A breather 42 is located in the inlet flow path 122 to calculate the water volume in the inlet flow path 122. A water softener 43 is located in the inlet flow path 122 to reduce scale formation.

[0153] One end of the circulation path 121 is connected to the washing chamber 11, and the other end is connected to the washing chamber 11 via the spray arm 44, so that the liquid circulates between the washing chamber 11 and the circulation path 121, realizing the reuse of water resources. A filter element 47 is provided at the end of the circulation path 121 away from the spray arm 44 to filter impurities such as food scraps in the washing chamber 11, reducing the risk of blockage in the circulation path 121. After being filtered by the filter element 47, the liquid in the washing chamber 11 flows into the circulation path 121. A circulation pump 46 is provided at the circulation path 121 to pump the liquid at one end of the circulation path 121 to the spray arm 44 at the other end, so that the liquid flowing into the circulation path 121 can flow to the spray arm 44 and be sprayed onto the tableware 200 in the washing chamber 11 to rinse the tableware 200.

[0154] The liquid outlet path 123 connects the washing chamber 11 and the drain outlet to drain the dirty water in the washing chamber 11.

[0155] Each water quality detector 20 includes a detector body 21 and three electrodes 22. The three electrodes 22 are located at one end of the detector body 21 and are arranged in a regular triangular shape. The electrodes 22 are cylindrical electrodes, which are easy to manufacture. The three electrodes 22 include a first electrode 221, a second electrode 222, and a third electrode 223. The first electrode 221 and the second electrode 222 form a first electrode pair (denoted as electrode pair B1), the second electrode 222 and the third electrode 223 form a second electrode pair (denoted as electrode pair B2), and the third electrode 223 and the first electrode 221 form a third electrode pair (denoted as electrode pair B3). Any electrode pair can be used to detect the conductivity of the liquid at at least one location in the washing chamber 11 and the liquid flow path 12.

[0156] Three water quality detectors 20 are respectively installed in the liquid inlet flow path 122, the washing chamber 11, and the circulation flow path 121. The water quality detector 20 installed in the liquid inlet flow path 122 is used to detect the conductivity of tap water, and this detector 20 has high accuracy in detecting the conductivity of tap water. The water quality detectors 20 installed in the washing chamber 11 and the circulation flow path 121 are used to detect the conductivity of the washing water and the rinsing water. The machine body 10 can operate according to the detection results of the water quality detectors 20. For example, the machine body 10 can adjust the washing time, rinsing time, and cleaning time based on the detection results, which facilitates intelligent control of the dishwasher 100.

[0157] The three load resistors are arranged in descending order of resistance value: a first load resistor (denoted as load resistor R1), a second load resistor (denoted as load resistor R2), and a third load resistor (denoted as load resistor R3). Load resistor R1 is connected in series with electrode pair B1, load resistor R2 is connected in series with electrode pair B2, and load resistor R3 is connected in series with electrode pair B3. The smaller the resistance value of the load resistor, the higher the detection accuracy of the electrode pair connected in series with that load resistor for liquids with a higher conductivity range. Therefore, load resistor R1 and electrode pair B1 can improve the detection accuracy of liquid conductivity for liquids with a low conductivity range, load resistor R2 and electrode pair B2 can improve the detection accuracy of liquid conductivity for liquids with a medium conductivity range, and load resistor R3 and electrode pair B3 can improve the detection accuracy of liquid conductivity for liquids with a higher conductivity range, which is beneficial to improving the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for liquids with different conductivity ranges.

[0158] The dishwasher 100 according to a second specific embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the following description is merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0159] like Figure 1 and Figures 5-7 As shown, a dishwasher 100 according to a specific embodiment of the present invention includes a body 10, three water quality detectors 20, multiple load resistors, a water inlet valve 41, a breather 42, a water softener 43, two spray arms 44, a dish rack 45, a circulation pump 46, a filter 47, and an inner tank 48. The water quality detectors 20 and the load resistors differ from those in the first specific embodiment.

[0160] Specifically, each water quality detector 20 includes a detector body 21 and four electrodes 22. The four electrodes 22 are located at one end of the detector body 21 and are arranged in a regular quadrilateral shape. The four electrodes 22 are paired in pairs to form six electrode pairs with two different spacings. Specifically, in four electrode pairs, the spacing between the two electrodes 22 is equal, and in the other two electrode pairs, the spacing between the two electrodes 22 is equal, while the two spacings are not equal. The larger the spacing between the two electrodes 22 in an electrode pair, the higher the detection accuracy of the electrode pair for the conductivity of liquids within a higher conductivity range. By adjusting the side length of the regular quadrilateral, the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for the conductivity of liquids within the two conductivity ranges can be improved.

[0161] The system comprises six load resistors arranged in descending order of resistance, with each load resistor connected in series with a corresponding electrode pair. For two load resistors with similar resistance values, the distance between the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair connected in series with the load resistor with the larger resistance value is less than or equal to the distance between the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair connected in series with the load resistor with the smaller resistance value. This design balances the detection accuracy of liquid conductivity across different conductivity ranges for load resistors with varying resistance values ​​and electrode pairs with different electrode spacings, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for liquids across a wider range of conductivity values.

[0162] The dishwasher 100 according to a third embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the following description is merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0163] like Figure 1 and Figures 8-10 As shown, a dishwasher 100 according to a specific embodiment of the present invention includes a body 10, three water quality detectors 20, three load resistors, a water inlet valve 41, a breather 42, a water softener 43, two spray arms 44, a dish rack 45, a circulation pump 46, a filter 47, and an inner tank 48. The structure of the water quality detectors 20 differs from that of the first embodiment.

[0164] Specifically, each water quality detector 20 includes a detector body 21 and three electrodes 22, which are located at one end of the detector body 21 and spaced apart along a straight line. The three electrodes 22 include a first electrode 221, a second electrode 222, and a third electrode 223, forming electrode pairs B1, B2, and B3. The distance between the first electrode 221 and the second electrode 222 in electrode pair B1 is equal to the distance between the second electrode 222 and the third electrode 223 in electrode pair B2, and the distance between the first electrode 221 and the second electrode 222 in electrode pair B1 is less than the distance between the third electrode 223 and the first electrode 221 in electrode pair B3.

[0165] The three load resistors include load resistors R1, R2, and R3. Load resistor R1 is connected in series with electrode pair B1, load resistor R2 is connected in series with electrode pair B2, and load resistor R3 is connected in series with electrode pair B3. For two load resistors with similar resistance values, the distance between the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair connected in series with the load resistor with the larger resistance value is less than or equal to the distance between the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair connected in series with the load resistor with the smaller resistance value. This approach can accommodate different resistance values ​​and electrode pairs with different electrode spacings for detecting the conductivity of liquids within different conductivity ranges, thus improving the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for liquids within a wider range of conductivity values.

[0166] The dishwasher 100 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the following description is merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0167] like Figure 1 and Figures 11-13 As shown, a dishwasher 100 according to a specific embodiment of the present invention includes a body 10, three water quality detectors 20, three load resistors, a water inlet valve 41, a breather 42, a water softener 43, two spray arms 44, a dish rack 45, a circulation pump 46, a filter 47, and an inner tank 48. The structure of the water quality detectors 20 differs from that of the third embodiment.

[0168] Specifically, each water quality detector 20 includes a detector body 21 and three electrodes 22. The electrodes 22 are sheet electrodes, and the three sheet electrodes are spaced apart along the thickness direction. The sheet electrodes have a large surface area and a large contact area with the liquid, which helps to improve the detection accuracy of the liquid's conductivity.

[0169] The control method of a dishwasher 100 according to a fifth specific embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the following description is merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0170] like Figures 1-4 and Figures 8-14 As shown, the control method for dishwasher 100 includes the following steps:

[0171] S11: The conductivity of the liquid is detected by multiple electrode pairs;

[0172] S12: Calculate the average value of multiple conductivity values, which is the detection result of water quality detector 20;

[0173] S13: Calculate the difference between the maximum and minimum conductivity among multiple conductivity values, and issue a prompt message when the difference exceeds a set multiple of the minimum conductivity. The set multiple is 1.5 times.

[0174] The water quality detector 20 includes a first electrode 221, a second electrode 222 and a third electrode 223, forming electrode pairs B1, B2 and B3.

[0175] After the dishwasher 100 starts working, it first detects the conductivity of the liquid through electrode B1 and records it as T1, then detects the conductivity of the liquid through electrode B2 and records it as T2, and then detects the conductivity of the liquid through electrode B3 and records it as T3. (T1+T2+T3) / 3 is the detection result of the water quality detector 20, which enables the machine body 10 to work according to the detection results, realizing the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100.

[0176] Calculate the minimum values ​​of T1, T2, and T3, and calculate the differences between T1 and T2, T2 and T3, and T3 and T1. Then compare each of these three differences with the minimum value. If any difference is greater than 1.5 times the minimum value, it means that the water quality detector 20 has malfunctioned. If a faulty electrode is found, the dishwasher 100 will issue a prompt message so that the user can contact a technician for repair.

[0177] This application employs multiple electrode pairs. The conductivity of the liquid is detected using these multiple electrode pairs, and the average conductivity is calculated as the detection result. This utilizes all electrodes 22, reducing detection errors and improving detection accuracy. Furthermore, the dishwasher 100 can issue a warning message in case the water quality detector 20 malfunctions, facilitating maintenance.

[0178] The control method of a dishwasher 100 according to a sixth specific embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is worth understanding that the following description is merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0179] like Figures 1-4 , Figures 8-13 and Figure 15 As shown, the control method for dishwasher 100 includes the following steps:

[0180] S21: Detect the initial conductivity using any electrode pair;

[0181] S22: Determine the conductivity range within which the initial conductivity falls, and select the load resistor corresponding to that conductivity range. The higher the conductivity range, the lower the load resistor value.

[0182] S24: Conduct conductivity testing.

[0183] The water quality detector 20 includes a first electrode 221, a second electrode 222, and a third electrode 223, forming electrode pairs B1, B2, and B3. The dishwasher 100 includes load resistors R1, R2, and R3. The low conductivity range of 0 μs / cm to 1000 μs / cm is denoted as C1, the medium conductivity range of 1000 μs / cm to 3000 μs / cm is denoted as C2, and the high conductivity range of greater than 3000 μs / cm is denoted as C3.

[0184] After the dishwasher 100 starts working, it first detects the conductivity of the liquid through electrode B1, or through electrode B2, or through electrode B3. The measured initial conductivity is recorded as T0.

[0185] When 0 μs / cm ≤ TO < 1000 μs / cm, i.e. TO is within C1, the load resistor R1 with the largest resistance is selected, and one of the electrode pairs B1, B2 and B3 is connected in series with the load resistor R1 to detect the conductivity of the liquid. This conductivity is the detection result of the water quality detector 20, and the machine body 10 operates according to the detection result to realize the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100.

[0186] When 1000μs / cm≤TO<3000μs / cm, i.e. TO is within C2, a load resistor R2 with a medium resistance value is selected. One of the electrode pairs B1, B2 and B3 is connected in series with the load resistor R2 to detect the conductivity of the liquid. This conductivity is the detection result of the water quality detector 20. The machine body 10 operates according to the detection result to realize the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100.

[0187] When TO ≥ 3000 μs / cm, i.e., TO is within C3, the load resistor R3 with the smallest resistance is selected, and one of the electrode pairs B1, B2 and B3 is connected in series with the load resistor R3 to detect the conductivity of the liquid. This conductivity is the detection result of the water quality detector 20, and the machine body 10 operates according to the detection result to realize the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100.

[0188] This application enables the selection of load resistors with different resistance values ​​within different conductivity ranges for detecting the conductivity of liquids. This allows load resistors with smaller resistance values ​​to be used to detect the conductivity of liquids within higher conductivity ranges, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for the conductivity of liquids within different conductivity ranges.

[0189] The control method of a dishwasher 100 according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the following description is merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0190] like Figures 1-4 , Figures 8-13 and Figure 16 As shown, the control method for dishwasher 100 includes the following steps:

[0191] S21: Detect the initial conductivity using any electrode pair;

[0192] S22: Determine the conductivity range within which the initial conductivity falls, and select the load resistor corresponding to that conductivity range. The higher the conductivity range, the lower the load resistor value.

[0193] S23: Determine the conductivity range of the initial conductivity and select the corresponding electrode pair for that conductivity range. Specifically, in two adjacent conductivity ranges, the electrode spacing 22 corresponding to the lower conductivity range is less than or equal to the electrode spacing 22 corresponding to the higher conductivity range.

[0194] S24: Conduct conductivity testing.

[0195] It should be noted that the order of steps S22 and S23 is variable; that is, step S22 can be performed first and then step S23, or step S23 can be performed first and then step S22, allowing for more flexible control.

[0196] The water quality detector 20 includes a first electrode 221, a second electrode 222, and a third electrode 223, forming electrode pairs B1, B2, and B3. The distance between the two electrodes 22 in electrode pair B1 is equal to the distance between the two electrodes 22 in electrode pair B2, and the distance between the two electrodes 22 in electrode pair B1 is less than the distance between the two electrodes 22 in electrode pair B3. The dishwasher 100 includes load resistors R1, R2, and R3. The low conductivity range of 0 μs / cm to 1000 μs / cm is denoted as C1, the medium conductivity range of 1000 μs / cm to 3000 μs / cm is denoted as C2, and the high conductivity range of greater than 3000 μs / cm is denoted as C3.

[0197] After the dishwasher 100 starts working, it first detects the conductivity of the liquid through electrode B1, or through electrode B2, or through electrode B3. The measured initial conductivity is recorded as T0.

[0198] When TO is within C1, select the load resistor R1 with the largest resistance and the electrode pair B1 or B2 with the smallest distance between the two electrodes 22. After connecting either electrode pair B1 or B2 in series with the load resistor R1, the conductivity of the liquid is detected. This conductivity is the detection result of the water quality detector 20, and the machine body 10 works according to the detection result to realize the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100.

[0199] When TO is within C2, select a load resistor R2 with a medium resistance value and an electrode pair B1 or electrode pair B2 with a medium distance between the two electrodes 22. After connecting either electrode pair B1 or electrode pair B2 in series with the load resistor R2, detect the conductivity of the liquid. This conductivity is the detection result of the water quality detector 20. The machine body 10 works according to the detection result to realize the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100.

[0200] When TO is within C3, select the load resistor R3 with the smallest resistance and the electrode pair B3 with the largest distance between the two electrodes 22. After connecting the electrode pair B3 and the load resistor R2 in series, detect the conductivity of the liquid. This conductivity is the detection result of the water quality detector 20. The machine body 10 works according to the detection result to realize the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100.

[0201] This application enables the selection of load resistors with different resistance values ​​and electrode pairs with different spacing between the two electrodes 22 within different conductivity ranges for detecting the conductivity of liquids. This allows for the connection of load resistors with smaller resistance values ​​and electrode pairs with larger spacing between the two electrodes 22 in series to detect the conductivity of liquids within higher conductivity ranges, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for the conductivity of liquids within different conductivity ranges.

[0202] The control method of a dishwasher 100 according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the following description is merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0203] like Figures 1-4 , Figures 8-13 and Figure 17 As shown, the control method for dishwasher 100 includes the following steps:

[0204] S21: Detect the initial conductivity using any electrode pair;

[0205] S22: Determine the conductivity range of the initial conductivity and select the load resistor corresponding to the conductivity range; the higher the conductivity range, the smaller the resistance value of the load resistor.

[0206] S241: Connect the load resistor in series with multiple electrode pairs and detect the conductivity of the liquid;

[0207] S242: Calculate the average value of multiple conductivity values, which is the detection result of water quality detector 20.

[0208] The water quality detector 20 includes a first electrode 221, a second electrode 222, and a third electrode 223, forming electrode pairs B1, B2, and B3. The dishwasher 100 includes load resistors R1, R2, and R3. The low conductivity range of 0 μs / cm to 1000 μs / cm is denoted as C1, the medium conductivity range of 1000 μs / cm to 3000 μs / cm is denoted as C2, and the high conductivity range of greater than 3000 μs / cm is denoted as C3.

[0209] After the dishwasher 100 starts working, it first detects the conductivity of the liquid through electrode B1, or through electrode B2, or through electrode B3. The measured initial conductivity is recorded as T0.

[0210] With TO within C1, select the load resistor R1 with the largest resistance value, and connect the load resistor R1 in series with electrode pair B1, electrode pair B2 and electrode pair B3 respectively to measure three conductivity values. Calculate the average value of these three conductivity values ​​as the detection result of water quality detector 20, and enable the machine body 10 to work according to the detection result, thereby realizing the intelligent control of dishwasher 100.

[0211] With TO within C2, select a load resistor R2 with a medium resistance value, and connect the load resistor R2 in series with electrode pair B1, electrode pair B2 and electrode pair B3 respectively to measure three conductivity values. Calculate the average value of these three conductivity values ​​as the detection result of water quality detector 20, and enable the machine body 10 to work according to the detection result, thereby realizing the intelligent control of dishwasher 100.

[0212] With TO within C3, select the load resistor R3 with the smallest resistance value, and connect the load resistor R3 in series with electrode pair B1, electrode pair B2 and electrode pair B3 respectively to measure three conductivity values. Calculate the average value of these three conductivity values ​​as the detection result of water quality detector 20, and enable the machine body 10 to work according to the detection result, thereby realizing the intelligent control of dishwasher 100.

[0213] This application can select a load resistor with a corresponding resistance value according to the conductivity range, and measure three conductivity values ​​by connecting the load resistor in series with three electrode pairs respectively. The average value of these three conductivity values ​​is calculated as the detection structure of the water quality detector 20, so that all electrodes 22 are used, which can reduce detection errors and improve the detection accuracy of the water quality detector 20 for the conductivity of liquids in different conductivity ranges.

[0214] The control method of a dishwasher 100 according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the following description is merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0215] like Figures 1-4 and Figures 8-13 As shown, the control method of the dishwasher 100 includes:

[0216] S3: During the detection of the conductivity of the liquid by any electrode pair, the polarity of the two corresponding electrodes 22 is controlled to alternate.

[0217] The process of "controlling the alternation of polarity between the two electrodes 22" includes the following steps:

[0218] S31: Control one electrode 22 as the anode and the other electrode 22 as the cathode and detect the first conductivity;

[0219] S32: Control one electrode 22 as the cathode and the other electrode 22 as the anode, and detect the second conductivity;

[0220] S33: Calculate the average of the first conductivity and the second conductivity to obtain the conductivity of the liquid.

[0221] The water quality detector 20 includes a first electrode 221, a second electrode 222, and a third electrode 223, forming electrode pairs B1, B2, and B3. During the detection of the liquid's conductivity using electrode pairs B1, B2, or B3, the polarity of the two electrodes 22 within each electrode pair is controlled to alternate. The following explanation uses the detection of liquid conductivity using electrode pair B1 as an example; similarly, the detection of liquid conductivity using electrode pairs B2 or B3 can also be understood.

[0222] After the dishwasher 100 starts operating, the first electrode 221 in the control electrode pair B1 acts as the anode, and the second electrode 222 in the electrode pair B1 acts as the cathode. The conductivity of the liquid is detected through the electrode pair B1 to obtain the first conductivity. Then, the first electrode 221 in the control electrode pair B1 acts as the cathode, and the second electrode 222 in the electrode pair B1 acts as the anode. The conductivity of the liquid is detected through the electrode pair B1 to obtain the second conductivity. Then, the first conductivity and the second conductivity are added together and divided by two to obtain the average value of the first conductivity and the second conductivity as the detection result. The machine body 10 operates according to the detection result, realizing the intelligent control of the dishwasher 100.

[0223] This application effectively reduces the formation of contaminants on the surface of electrode 22 by controlling the alternation of polarity between the two electrodes 22 in an electrode pair, which helps to extend the service life of electrode 22 and thus extend the service life of water quality detector 20. Furthermore, calculating the average of the first conductivity and the second conductivity as the detection result can reduce potential errors during the detection process and improve detection accuracy.

[0224] Of course, in other embodiments of this application, the polarity of the two electrodes 22 in the electrode pair can be alternated during the process of detecting the conductivity of the liquid by the electrode pair, so as to extend the service life of the electrodes 22.

[0225] Other configurations and operations of the dishwasher 100 and its control method according to embodiments of the present invention are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0226] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0227] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "embodiment," "specific embodiment," and "example" indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0228] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A dishwasher, characterized in that, include: The body has a washing chamber and a liquid flow path communicating with the washing chamber; A water quality detector is disposed on the body and includes multiple electrodes, the number of which is greater than or equal to three. Any two of the multiple electrodes form an electrode pair. Any electrode pair can be used to detect the conductivity of the liquid at at least one location in the washing chamber and the liquid flow path. The body is adapted to operate based on the detection results of the water quality detector.

2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water quality detector includes a detector body, and a plurality of electrodes are disposed at one end of the detector body, wherein the plurality of electrodes are distributed in a regular polygonal pattern, or the plurality of electrodes are arranged at intervals along a straight line; And / or, the distance between any two adjacent electrodes is 1 mm to 20 mm.

3. The dishwasher according to claim 2, characterized in that, In any two electrode pairs, one of the electrode pairs has a larger measurable conductivity range, and the distance between the two electrodes in that electrode pair is D1. The other electrode pair has a smaller measurable conductivity range, and the distance between the two electrodes in the electrode pair is D2, where D1 ≥ D2.

4. The dishwasher according to claim 3, characterized in that, The electrode is three in number, and the three electrodes are located at one end of the detector body and are spaced apart along a straight line; or... There are four electrodes, which are located at one end of the detector body and are distributed in a regular quadrilateral shape.

5. The dishwasher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dishwasher further includes a plurality of load resistors, each of which is connected in series with a plurality of electrode pairs; or... The dishwasher also includes at least one load resistor, any of which is adapted to be connected in series with any of the electrode pairs among the plurality of electrode pairs.

6. The dishwasher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid flow path includes a circulation flow path and an inlet flow path. The inlet flow path is connected to the washing chamber and is used to supply water to the washing chamber. The washing chamber is connected to both ends of the circulation flow path so that the liquid circulates between the washing chamber and the circulation flow path. The water quality detector is provided at least one of the liquid inlet flow path, the washing chamber, and the circulation flow path; or, the water quality detector is provided at least one of the washing chamber and the circulation flow path and the liquid inlet flow path.

7. The dishwasher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid flow path includes a circulation flow path, the washing chamber is connected to both ends of the circulation flow path, the dishwasher also includes a circulation pump, the circulation pump is located in the circulation flow path, the circulation pump is used to drive the liquid to circulate between the washing chamber and the circulation flow path, and the circulation flow path is equipped with the water quality detector.

8. A control method for a dishwasher according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, include: The conductivity of the liquid is detected by means of multiple electrode pairs; Calculate the average value of the multiple conductivity values, which is the detection result of the water quality detector.

9. A control method for a dishwasher according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The dishwasher includes multiple load resistors, each with a different resistance value, and the control method includes: The initial conductivity is detected by any of the electrode pairs described above; Determine the conductivity range in which the initial conductivity falls, and select the load resistor corresponding to the conductivity range, wherein the higher the conductivity range, the smaller the resistance value of the load resistor; Conduct conductivity testing.

10. The control method for a dishwasher according to claim 9, characterized in that, Before conducting conductivity detection, the control method further includes: At least two of the electrode pairs have different electrode spacings. Determine the conductivity range in which the initial conductivity is located, and select the electrode pair corresponding to the conductivity range, wherein, in two adjacent conductivity ranges, the electrode spacing corresponding to the lower conductivity range is less than or equal to the electrode spacing corresponding to the higher conductivity range.

11. The control method for a dishwasher according to claim 9, characterized in that, Conductivity testing includes: The load resistor is connected in series with each of the electrode pairs, and the conductivity of the liquid is detected. Calculate the average value of the multiple conductivity values, which is the detection result of the water quality detector.

12. A control method for a dishwasher according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, include: During the detection of the conductivity of the liquid using any of the electrode pairs, the polarity of the corresponding two electrodes is controlled to alternate. Controlling the alternation of polarity between the two electrodes includes: One of the electrodes is controlled to be the anode and the other electrode to be the cathode, and the first conductivity is detected. By controlling one of the electrodes to be the cathode and the other electrode to be the anode, and detecting the second conductivity; The average of the first conductivity and the second conductivity is calculated to obtain the conductivity of the liquid.

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