Water inlet control method for washing apparatus

By obtaining information on the material, color, type, and quantity of clothing, the tolerance of the clothing can be determined, and a reasonable sequence and method for cold and hot water inlet can be established. This solves the problems of clothing damage and poor washing effect in existing technologies, and improves user experience and washing results.

CN113512847BActive Publication Date: 2026-02-24QINGDAO HAIER WASHING MASCH CO LTD +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202110326214.8
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2021-03-26
Publication Date
2026-02-24
Estimated Expiration
2041-03-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing washing equipment has difficulty accurately controlling the intake of cold and hot water according to the material of the clothes and environmental factors during the water intake process, which leads to damage to clothes or poor washing effect and affects the user experience.

Method used

By obtaining information about the material, color, type, and quantity of the clothing, we can determine its tolerance to hot water, and then determine the appropriate order and method for introducing cold and hot water to avoid damage to the clothing and improve the washing effect.

Benefits of technology

It enables precise control of water intake based on the characteristics of clothing, avoiding problems such as shrinkage and fading, thus improving user experience and washing results.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of smart home, and particularly provides a water inlet control method for a washing device, aiming at solving the problem of unreasonable water inlet mode of cold water and hot water of the existing washing device. To this end, the water inlet control method comprises the following steps: obtaining the material of clothes; judging the category to which the material belongs; determining the water inlet mode of the washing device for hot water and cold water according to the result of the category to which the material belongs, avoiding the first hot water inlet in the case that the material of clothes cannot withstand high temperature, avoiding damage to the clothes, avoiding the first cold water inlet in the case that the material of clothes can withstand high temperature, improving the washing effect of the clothes, better meeting the use requirements of users, achieving the purpose of providing the most reasonable water inlet mode of cold water and hot water for the washing device, and thus improving the user experience.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of smart home technology, specifically providing a water inlet control method for washing equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Washing machines are common household laundry appliances. Based on washing methods, they can be broadly classified into top-loading (pulsator) washing machines and front-loading (drum) washing machines. Taking a front-loading washing machine as an example, to improve washing results, the washing water temperature can be set. During the water intake process, the washing machine typically calculates the water intake time based on the washing water temperature and flow rate, and then adds water according to the corresponding time. However, after the water intake is complete, factors such as ambient temperature or load may cause the actual washing water temperature to be lower than the target temperature, making it difficult to meet usage requirements.

[0003] To address the aforementioned issues, existing technologies, after determining the washing water temperature, use a drum washing machine that alternately introduces cold and hot water through the inlet until the water level in the garment processing unit reaches the target level. This ensures that the actual washing water temperature reaches the target temperature, with the hot water temperature being higher than the target temperature. However, during the water intake process, different types of clothing have varying tolerances to hot water. For example, wool and cashmere garments have a maximum washing temperature of 30°C. Therefore, the hot water introduced must be higher than 30°C, such as 50°C. If hot water is introduced first, followed by cold water, the wool and cashmere garments will inevitably shrink, damaging them and negatively impacting the user experience.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need in the art for a new method for controlling the water inlet of washing equipment to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the aforementioned problems in the prior art, specifically the unreasonable water inlet methods for cold and hot water in existing washing equipment, this invention provides a water inlet control method for washing equipment. This method includes the following steps: obtaining the material of the clothing; determining the category to which the material belongs; and determining the water inlet methods for hot and cold water in the washing equipment based on the result of the material category.

[0006] In the preferred technical solution of the above water inlet control method, the step of "determining the water inlet mode of the washing equipment for hot and cold water according to the judgment result of the category to which the material belongs" specifically includes: if the material belongs to the first category of materials, then control the washing equipment to alternately introduce water in the order of first cold water and then hot water until the target water level is reached.

[0007] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned water inlet control method, the step of "determining the water inlet method of the washing equipment for hot and cold water according to the judgment result of the category to which the material belongs" further includes: if the material belongs to the second category of materials, then obtaining the color of the clothing; determining whether the color belongs to the dark color family; and determining the water inlet method of the washing equipment for hot and cold water according to the judgment result of whether the color belongs to the dark color family.

[0008] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned water inlet control method, the step of "determining the water inlet mode of the washing equipment for hot and cold water according to the judgment result of whether the color belongs to the dark color group" specifically includes: if the color belongs to the dark color group, then control the washing equipment to alternately introduce water in the order of first cold water and then hot water to the target water level; and / or if the color belongs to the light color group, then control the washing equipment to alternately introduce water in the order of first hot water and then cold water to the target water level.

[0009] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned water inlet control method, the step of "determining the water inlet method of the washing equipment for hot and cold water according to the judgment result of the category to which the material belongs" further includes: if the material belongs to the third category of materials, then obtaining the category of the clothing; determining whether the clothing belongs to children's clothing; and determining the water inlet method of the washing equipment for hot and cold water according to the judgment result of whether the clothing belongs to children's clothing.

[0010] In the preferred embodiment of the above water inlet control method, the step of "determining the water inlet mode of the washing equipment for hot and cold water based on the judgment result of whether the clothing belongs to children's clothing" specifically includes: if the clothing belongs to children's clothing, then control the washing equipment to alternately introduce water to the target water level in the order of hot water first and then cold water.

[0011] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned water inlet control method, the step of "determining the water inlet mode of the washing equipment for hot and cold water based on the judgment result of whether the clothing belongs to children's clothing" further includes: if the clothing does not belong to children's clothing, then obtaining the quantity of clothing; judging whether the quantity is greater than a preset quantity; and determining the water inlet mode of the washing equipment for hot and cold water based on the judgment result of whether the quantity is greater than the preset quantity.

[0012] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned water inlet control method, the step of "determining the water inlet mode of the washing equipment for hot and cold water according to the judgment result of whether the quantity is greater than the preset quantity" specifically includes: if the quantity is greater than the preset quantity, then the washing equipment is controlled to inlet water to the target water level in a manner that simultaneously inlets hot and cold water; and / or if the quantity is less than or equal to the preset quantity, then the washing equipment is controlled to alternately inlet water to the target water level in the order of first inlet hot water and then inlet cold water.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned water inlet control method, the water inlet control method further includes: obtaining the weight of the clothing; and determining the target water level based on the weight.

[0014] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned water inlet control method, before "determining the water inlet method of the washing equipment for hot and cold water based on the judgment result of the material category", the water inlet control method further includes: determining the temperature of the washing water based on the material; and only after determining the temperature of the washing water is the operation of determining the water inlet method of the washing equipment for hot and cold water based on the judgment result of the material category performed.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of the water inlet control method of the present invention, the material of the clothing is obtained; the category to which the material belongs is determined; and the water inlet method for hot water and cold water in the washing machine is determined based on the determination result of the category to which the material belongs.

[0016] Compared to existing technologies that rely solely on water temperature to control the alternating flow of cold and hot water in washing machines, this invention accurately determines the clothing's tolerance to hot water based on the type of fabric it belongs to. This avoids introducing hot water into the washing machine when the fabric cannot withstand high temperatures, thus preventing damage to the clothing. Conversely, it avoids introducing cold water into the washing machine when the fabric can withstand high temperatures, thereby improving the washing effect and better meeting user needs. This achieves the goal of providing the washing machine with the most reasonable cold and hot water intake method, thereby enhancing the user experience.

[0017] Furthermore, if the material belongs to the first category, such as wool, cashmere, silk, and mulberry silk, clothing made of this material has a low tolerance for hot water. If the washing water temperature is too high, it is easy for the fabric to shrink. To avoid this, the washing machine is controlled to alternately add water in the order of cold water first and then hot water until the target water level is reached, thus avoiding damage to the clothing and improving the user experience.

[0018] Furthermore, if the material belongs to the second category, such as cotton, linen, denim, and blends, clothing made of this material has a moderate tolerance to hot water. However, different colors of clothing are affected by hot water differently. For example, dark-colored clothing is very prone to fading under the influence of hot water at high temperatures. To avoid this, the color of the clothing is obtained, and based on the judgment result of whether the color belongs to the dark color family, the method of cold and hot water inlet is accurately determined, completely avoiding the phenomenon of clothing fading and thus improving the user experience.

[0019] Furthermore, if the material belongs to the third category, such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, and synthetic fibers, clothing made of this material has a high tolerance for hot water. It will not shrink, fade, or be damaged. However, different types of clothing have different washing and care needs. For example, children's clothing has more stains and requires stronger washing. In order to better meet the washing needs of users, the category of clothing is obtained, and the method of cold and hot water inlet is accurately determined based on the judgment result of whether the clothing belongs to children's clothing. This can provide more reasonable washing and care for clothing and thus improve the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The water inlet control method of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings and a washing machine, in which:

[0021] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control method of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control method of the present invention, which determines the water inlet mode of hot and cold water in a washing machine based on the material of the clothing;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control method of the present invention, which determines the water inlet mode of a washing machine for hot and cold water based on the color of the clothes;

[0024] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control method of the present invention, which determines the water inlet mode of hot and cold water in a washing machine according to the type of clothing;

[0025] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control method of the present invention, which determines the water inlet mode of hot and cold water in a washing machine based on the amount of clothing;

[0026] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the water intake control method for determining the target water level according to the present invention;

[0027] Figure 7 This is a complete flowchart of the water inlet control method of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 8 This is a logic diagram of the water inlet control method of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. For example, although this application is described in conjunction with a washing machine, the technical solution of the present invention is not limited thereto, and this water inlet control method can obviously also be applied to other clothing processing equipment such as washer-dryer combos; such changes do not depart from the principles and scope of the present invention.

[0030] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, the terms "first", "second", "third", "fourth", "fifth", "sixth", "seventh", "eighth", "ninth", "tenth", "eleventh", "twelfth", "thirteenth", "fourteenth" and "fifteenth" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0031] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the term "setup" should be interpreted broadly. For example, it can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it 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 according to the specific circumstances.

[0032] Based on the technical problems mentioned in the background art, the present invention provides a water inlet control method for a washing machine, which aims to accurately determine the tolerance of clothing to hot water based on the classification of the clothing material. This avoids introducing hot water into the washing machine when the clothing material cannot withstand high temperatures, thus preventing damage to the clothing. It also avoids introducing cold water into the washing machine when the clothing material can withstand high temperatures, thereby improving the washing effect of the clothes, better meeting the user's needs, and achieving the goal of providing the washing machine with the most reasonable cold and hot water inlet method, thereby improving the user experience.

[0033] First see Figure 1 The present invention describes a water inlet control method for a washing machine. Figure 1 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control method of the present invention.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the water inlet control method for a washing machine of the present invention includes the following steps:

[0035] S100, Obtain the material of the clothing;

[0036] S200, Determine the category to which the material belongs;

[0037] S300. Based on the determination of the material category, determine the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing machine.

[0038] The materials are categorized into three classes: Class I, Class II, and Class III. Class I materials include wool, cashmere, silk, and sericite, which are less resistant to hot water and easily damaged by high temperatures. Class II materials include cotton, linen, denim, and blends, which are moderately resistant to hot water and less prone to fading at high temperatures. Class III materials include polyester, nylon, acrylic, and synthetic fibers, which are more resistant to hot water and less likely to be damaged or faded at high temperatures. Of course, the material categories are not limited to the three listed above. For example, a Class IV material may be included, which includes leather and other non-washable materials. Those skilled in the art can flexibly adjust and set the material categories according to actual usage needs.

[0039] The control method of the present invention will be further illustrated below using the first type of material, the second type of material, and the third type of material as examples.

[0040] See Figures 2 to 5 The present invention describes a water inlet control method for determining the water inlet mode of a washing machine for hot and cold water based on the material. Wherein, Figure 2 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control method of the present invention, which determines the water inlet mode of hot and cold water in a washing machine based on the material of the clothing; Figure 3 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control method of the present invention, which determines the water inlet mode of a washing machine for hot and cold water based on the color of the clothes; Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control method of the present invention, which determines the water inlet mode of hot and cold water in a washing machine according to the type of clothing; Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control method of the present invention, which determines the water inlet mode of hot and cold water in a washing machine based on the amount of clothing.

[0041] like Figure 2 As shown, step S300, "determining the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing machine based on the judgment result of the material category," specifically includes:

[0042] S311. If the material belongs to the first category, control the washing machine to alternately introduce water in the order of cold water first and then hot water until the target water level is reached.

[0043] In step S311, if the material of the garment belongs to the first category, such as wool, cashmere, silk, and mulberry silk, the garments made of this type of material have a low tolerance for hot water. If the washing water temperature is too high, the garments are prone to shrinkage. In order to avoid the above situation, the washing machine is controlled to alternately fill the water with cold water first and then hot water until the target water level is reached, so as to avoid damage to the garments and improve the user experience.

[0044] For example, the washing machine can be controlled to first add cold water at a first time t1 (e.g., 30 seconds), pause the water intake for a second time t2 (e.g., 20 seconds), and then add hot water at a third time t3 (e.g., 15 seconds), repeating this cycle until the target water level is reached, where t1 > t2 > t3. Alternatively, it can first add cold water at a first time t1, then add hot water at a third time t3, repeating this cycle until the target water level is reached, where t1 > t3. Of course, the first time can also be less than or equal to the second time, and the second time can also be less than or equal to the third time. Those skilled in the art can also adjust and set the first, second, and third times according to the material of the clothes and the set washing water temperature.

[0045] Continue reading Figure 2 In step S300, the step of "determining the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing machine based on the judgment result of the material category" further includes:

[0046] S312. If the material belongs to the second type of material, then obtain the color of the clothing;

[0047] S313. Determine whether the color belongs to the dark color family;

[0048] S314. Based on the result of determining whether the color belongs to the dark color scheme, determine the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing machine.

[0049] In steps S312 to S314, if the material of the clothing belongs to the second category, such as cotton, linen, denim, and blends, the clothing of this type has a moderate tolerance to hot water. However, the fading of different colored clothing varies depending on the color of the clothing. For example, dark-colored clothing is very prone to fading under the influence of hot water at high temperatures. To avoid this, the color of the clothing is obtained, and the method of cold and hot water intake is accurately determined based on whether the color belongs to the dark color group. This completely avoids the phenomenon of clothing fading and improves the user experience.

[0050] like Figure 3 As shown, step S314, "determining the water inlet method for the washing machine to accept hot and cold water based on the judgment result of whether the color belongs to the dark color family," specifically includes:

[0051] S321. If the color is dark, control the washing machine to alternately fill with cold water first and then hot water until the target water level is reached.

[0052] S322. If the color is light, control the washing machine to alternately fill with hot water first and then cold water until the target water level is reached.

[0053] In step S321, if the color of the clothing is dark, such as black, red, purple, dark gray, dark blue, camouflage, or other dark or colored colors, it indicates that the clothing of this color may fade. Since the fading of clothing is directly related to the temperature of the washing water, if the washing machine first pours hot water into the washing tub, it may cause the clothing to fade more severely. To avoid the above phenomenon, the washing machine is controlled to alternately pour in cold water first and then hot water until the target water level is reached, so as to reduce the temperature of the washing water that comes into direct contact with the clothing, thereby preventing the clothing from fading and improving the user experience.

[0054] For example, the washing machine can be controlled to first add cold water at a fourth time t4 (e.g., 30 seconds), pause the water intake at a fifth time t5 (e.g., 5 seconds), and then add hot water at a sixth time t6 (e.g., 20 seconds), repeating this cycle until the target water level is reached, where t4 > t6 > t5. Alternatively, it can first add cold water at a fourth time t4, then add hot water at a sixth time t6, repeating this cycle until the target water level is reached, where t4 > t6. Of course, the fourth time can also be less than or equal to the sixth time, and the sixth time can also be less than or equal to the fifth time. Those skilled in the art can also adjust and set the fourth, fifth, and sixth times according to the material of the clothes and the set washing water temperature.

[0055] In step S322, if the color of the clothes is light, such as white, light yellow, light pink, light green, light blue, etc., it means that the clothes of this color will not fade. Even if hot water is poured directly into the washing tub, the clothes will not fade. In order to improve the washing effect, the washing machine is controlled to alternately fill water with hot water first and then cold water until the target water level is reached.

[0056] For example, the washing machine can first add hot water at time t7 (e.g., 25 seconds), pause the water intake at time t8 (e.g., 20 seconds), and then add cold water at time t9 (e.g., 15 seconds), repeating this cycle until the target water level is reached, where t7 > t8 > t9. Alternatively, it can first add hot water at time t7, then add cold water at time t9, repeating this cycle until the target water level is reached, where t7 > t9. Of course, time 7 can be less than or equal to time 8, and time 8 can be less than or equal to time 9. Those skilled in the art can also adjust and set the time 7, time 8, and time 9 according to the material of the clothing and the set washing water temperature.

[0057] See again Figure 2 In step S300, the step of "determining the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing machine based on the judgment result of the material category" further includes:

[0058] S315. If the material belongs to the third category of materials, then obtain the category of the clothing.

[0059] S316. Determine whether the clothing belongs to children's clothing;

[0060] S317. Based on the determination of whether the clothing belongs to children's clothing, determine the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing machine.

[0061] In steps S315 to S317, if the material of the clothing belongs to the third category of materials, such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, and chemical fibers, clothing made of this type of material has a high tolerance to hot water. It will not shrink, fade, or be damaged. However, different types of clothing have different washing and care needs. For example, children's clothing has more stains and requires stronger washing effects. In order to better meet the user's washing needs, the category of clothing is obtained, and the water inlet method of cold water and hot water is accurately determined based on the judgment result of whether the clothing belongs to children's clothing. This can provide more reasonable washing and care for the clothing and thus improve the user experience.

[0062] like Figure 4 As shown, step S317, "determining the water inlet method for the washing machine to accept hot and cold water based on the judgment result of whether the clothing belongs to children's clothing," specifically includes:

[0063] S331. If the clothes are children's clothes, control the washing machine to alternately fill with hot water first and then cold water until the target water level is reached.

[0064] S332. If the clothing is not children's clothing, then obtain the quantity of clothing;

[0065] S333, Determine whether the quantity is greater than the preset quantity;

[0066] S334. Based on the judgment result of whether the quantity is greater than the preset quantity, determine the water inlet method for hot water and cold water in the washing machine.

[0067] In step S331, if the clothing is children's clothing, it means that the clothing has a lot of stains. Since the material of the clothing is a Class 3 material with a high tolerance to hot water, even if hot water is poured directly into the washing tub, the clothing will not shrink, fade or be damaged. In order to improve the washing effect, the washing machine is controlled to alternately fill the water to the target water level in the order of hot water first and then cold water.

[0068] For example, controlling the advanced tenth time of the washing machine t 10 (e.g., 35 seconds) hot water, eleventh time t of water inlet pause. 11 (e.g., 25s) then proceed to the twelfth time t. 12 (e.g., 22s) of cold water is circulated in this way until the target water level is reached, where t 10 >t 11 >t 12 Or, the advanced tenth time t 10 The hot water, then enters the twelfth time t 12 The cold water is circulated in this way until the target water level is reached, where t 10 >t 12 Of course, the tenth time can be less than or equal to the eleventh time, and the eleventh time can be less than or equal to the twelfth time. Those skilled in the art can also adjust and set the tenth, eleventh, and twelfth times according to the material of the clothing and the set temperature of the washing water.

[0069] In steps S332 to S333, if the clothing is not children's clothing, it indicates that it is adult clothing with minimal stains. Furthermore, the clothing is made of a Class 3 material with high resistance to hot water. Therefore, regardless of whether cold or hot water is used, the clothing will be cleaned without shrinkage, fading, or damage. However, when there are many clothes, the target water level is relatively high. If the water intake time is long, the actual washing water temperature may be lower than the target temperature. To avoid this, the quantity of clothes is measured, and based on whether the quantity exceeds a preset quantity, the method of adding hot and cold water to the washing machine is accurately determined. This ensures that the actual washing water temperature reaches the target temperature, thus guaranteeing the washing effect.

[0070] like Figure 5 As shown, step S334, "determining the water inlet method for the washing machine to accept hot and cold water based on whether the quantity is greater than the preset quantity," specifically includes:

[0071] S341. If the quantity is greater than the preset quantity, control the washing machine to fill with water to the target water level by simultaneously filling with hot and cold water.

[0072] S342. If the quantity is less than or equal to the preset quantity, control the washing machine to alternately fill water to the target water level in the order of hot water first and then cold water.

[0073] In step S341, if the quantity is greater than the preset quantity, for example, if the preset quantity is 6, and the quantity of clothes obtained in step S332 is 7, which is greater than the preset quantity, it means that there are more clothes being washed together, and the corresponding target water level is also relatively high. In order to shorten the water intake time, the washing machine is controlled to take in water to the target water level by simultaneously taking in hot and cold water.

[0074] In step S342, if the quantity is less than or equal to the preset quantity, for example, if the preset quantity is 6, and the quantity of clothes obtained in step S332 is 4, which is less than the preset quantity, it means that there are fewer clothes to wash together, the corresponding target water level is also relatively low, and the time required for water to enter the target water level is also relatively short. Even if the water is entered in an alternating hot and cold manner, it can ensure that the actual water temperature of the washing water reaches the target water temperature. In order to improve the washing effect, the washing machine is controlled to alternately enter water to the target water level in the order of hot water first and then cold water.

[0075] For example, controlling the advanced thirteenth time of the washing machine t 13 (e.g., 35 seconds) of hot water, stop water intake for the fourteenth time t. 14 (e.g., 25s) then proceed to the fifteenth time t 15 (e.g., 22s) of cold water is circulated in this way until the target water level is reached, where t 13 >t 14 >t 15 Or, advanced thirteenth time t 13 The hot water, then enters the fifteenth time t 15 The cold water is circulated in this way until the target water level is reached, where t 13 >t 15 Of course, the thirteenth time can be less than or equal to the fourteenth time, and the fourteenth time can be less than or equal to the fifteenth time. Those skilled in the art can also adjust and set the thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth times according to the material of the clothing and the set temperature of the washing water.

[0076] It should be noted that the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, twelfth, thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth times, the quantity of clothing, and the preset quantity listed above are merely illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art can flexibly adjust and set the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, twelfth, thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth times, the quantity of clothing, and the preset quantity according to actual water intake needs, water temperature, and water level.

[0077] It should also be noted that in the above process, steps S311, S312, and S315 are not sequential but parallel, and are only related to the judgment result of the material category of the clothing. The corresponding steps are executed according to different judgment results. Similarly, steps S321 to S322 are not sequential but parallel, and are only related to the judgment result of whether the color belongs to the dark color family. The corresponding steps are executed according to different judgment results. Similarly, steps S331 to S332 are not sequential but parallel, and are only related to the judgment result of whether the clothing is children's clothing. The corresponding steps are executed according to different judgment results. Finally, steps S341 to S342 are not sequential but parallel, and are only related to the judgment result of whether the quantity of clothing exceeds a preset quantity. The corresponding steps are executed according to different judgment results.

[0078] In addition, in steps S100, S312 and S315 above, images of the clothes can be acquired by image acquisition modules such as cameras or cameras installed on the washing machine, and the material, color and category of the clothes can be determined based on the images of the clothes.

[0079] First, let's take obtaining the material of the clothing as an example to further illustrate this:

[0080] After the image acquisition module such as the camera or camera acquires the image of the clothes, the image processing program set on the washing machine performs grayscale processing on the received image, compares the processed result with the preset grayscale judgment model, and obtains the material information of the clothes. The preset grayscale judgment model can be preset as follows: 60% grayscale value is fiber, 100% grayscale value is cotton or linen, 30% grayscale value is polyester, etc. This invention does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0081] Secondly, let's take obtaining the color of clothing as an example to further illustrate this:

[0082] After the image acquisition module, such as the camera, captures an image of the clothing, the image processing program on the washing machine extracts the RGB values ​​of the clothing color from the image. It then compares these RGB values ​​with a preset RGB judgment model to obtain the clothing's color information. The preset RGB judgment model can be set as follows: RGB(0,0,0) for black, RGB(127,127,127) for gray, RGB(255,0,0) for red, RGB(0,255,0) for green, RGB(0,0,255) for blue, etc. This invention does not impose any limitations on this. The RGB color mode is a color standard that obtains various colors by varying the red (R), green (G), and blue (B) color channels and their superposition. RGB represents the colors of the red, green, and blue channels.

[0083] Next, let's take obtaining the category of clothing as an example to further illustrate:

[0084] After the image acquisition module, such as the camera, captures an image of the clothing, the image processing program on the washing machine outlines the clothing in the image. This outline is then imported into a preset category judgment model and compared with preset outlines of clothing within the same model. Based on the comparison result, the category information of the clothing is obtained. Clothing categories can include children's clothing (e.g., T-shirts, shirts, sweatpants, sportswear, etc.), adult men's clothing (e.g., T-shirts, shirts, trench coats, overcoats, suits, shorts, capri pants, trousers, etc.), and adult women's clothing (e.g., T-shirts, shirts, trench coats, overcoats, suits, shorts, capri pants, trousers, etc.). Of course, clothing can also be classified according to other standards; this invention does not impose any limitations on this.

[0085] Alternatively, in an alternative embodiment, the washing machine includes an RFID identification module for identifying RFID tags on clothing; in steps S100, S312, and S315 above, the washing machine scans the RFID tags on clothing using the RFID identification module and determines the information of the clothing based on the identification result of the RFID identification module; wherein, the RFID tags on clothing contain information such as the material, color, category, drying method, and washing method of the clothing.

[0086] It should be noted that the methods for obtaining the material, color, and category of clothing are not limited to the two methods listed above. Information such as the material, color, and category of clothing can also be obtained through user input. Regardless of the method used, the specific implementation method corresponding to any method should not constitute a limitation on this invention.

[0087] The following reference Figure 6 The control method of the present invention is further described below. Figure 6This is a flowchart of the water intake control method for determining the target water level according to the present invention.

[0088] like Figure 6 As shown, the control method of the present invention further includes:

[0089] S411, Obtain the weight of the clothing;

[0090] S412. Determine the target water level based on weight.

[0091] Alternatively, the target water level can be determined based on the user-selected washing program or the washing machine's recommended program. Of course, the methods for determining the target water level are not limited to those listed above; whatever method is used, as long as the target water level can be accurately determined, it is acceptable.

[0092] The following reference Figure 7 The control method of the present invention is further described below. Figure 7 This is a complete flowchart of the water inlet control method of the present invention.

[0093] like Figure 7 As shown, before step S300, the control method of the present invention further includes:

[0094] S101. Determine the temperature of the washing water according to the material;

[0095] After determining the temperature of the washing water, steps S200 and S300 are executed, namely, determining the category of the material and determining the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing machine based on the determination result of the material category.

[0096] In step S101, for example, the maximum washing water temperature for wool and cashmere garments is 30°C; the maximum washing water temperature for cotton and linen garments is 40°C; the maximum washing water temperature for silk garments is 25°C; and the maximum washing water temperature for polyester, nylon, acrylic, and synthetic fiber garments is 45°C.

[0097] Furthermore, only after determining the temperature of the washing water can a specific plan for any water inlet method be determined to ensure that the actual temperature of the washing water can reach the target temperature.

[0098] The following reference Figure 8 This paper describes one possible control flow of the present invention. Figure 8 This is a logic diagram of the water inlet control method of the present invention.

[0099] like Figure 8 As shown, a possible complete flow of the water inlet control method of the present invention is as follows:

[0100] S501. After the user puts the clothes into the inner drum of the washing machine, obtain the material of the clothes;

[0101] S502. Determine the category to which the material belongs;

[0102] If the material belongs to the first type of material, then proceed to step S505;

[0103] If the material belongs to the second type of material, then proceed to step S503;

[0104] If the material belongs to the third category, proceed to step S507;

[0105] S503, Obtain the color of the clothing;

[0106] S504. Determine if the color belongs to the dark color family; if yes, proceed to step S505; if no, proceed to step S506.

[0107] S505: Control the washing machine to alternately fill with cold water first and then hot water until the target water level is reached;

[0108] S506. Control the washing machine to alternately fill with hot water first and then cold water until the target water level is reached;

[0109] S507, Obtain the category of clothing;

[0110] S508. Determine whether the clothing belongs to children; if yes, proceed to step S506; if no, proceed to step S09.

[0111] S509, Obtain the quantity N of clothing;

[0112] S510. Determine whether N > 6 is true; if yes, proceed to step S511; if no, proceed to step S506.

[0113] S511, Control the washing machine to simultaneously fill with hot and cold water until the target water level is reached.

[0114] It should be noted that the above embodiments are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention, used only to illustrate the principle of the method of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. In practical applications, those skilled in the art can allocate the above functions to different steps as needed, that is, further decompose or combine the steps in the embodiments of the present invention. For example, the steps in the above embodiments can be combined into one step, or further divided into multiple sub-steps to complete all or part of the functions described above. The names of the steps involved in the embodiments of the present invention are merely for distinguishing the various steps and are not considered as limitations on the present invention.

[0115] The technical solution of the present invention has been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of the present invention is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of the present invention, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after such changes or substitutions will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A water inlet control method for a washing machine, characterized in that, The water inlet control method includes the following steps: To obtain the material of the clothing; Determine the category to which the material belongs; Based on the determination of the category to which the material belongs, the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing equipment is determined; The step of "determining the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing equipment based on the judgment result of the material category" further includes: If the material belongs to the third category of materials, then obtain the category of the clothing; Determine whether the clothing belongs to children's clothing; Based on the determination of whether the clothing belongs to children's clothing, the water inlet method for the washing equipment, including hot and cold water, is determined; The step of "determining the water inlet method for the washing equipment, including hot and cold water, based on the determination of whether the clothing is children's clothing" further includes: If the clothing is not children's clothing, then obtain the quantity of clothing; Determine whether the quantity is greater than a preset quantity; Based on the determination result of whether the quantity is greater than the preset quantity, the water inlet method of the washing equipment for hot water and cold water is determined; The step of "determining the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing equipment based on the judgment result of whether the quantity is greater than the preset quantity" specifically includes: If the quantity is greater than the preset quantity, the washing equipment is controlled to simultaneously introduce hot and cold water to the target water level; and If the quantity is less than or equal to the preset quantity, the washing equipment is controlled to alternately introduce water in the order of hot water first and then cold water until the target water level is reached; The third category of materials includes materials that are highly resistant to hot water.

2. The water inlet control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of "determining the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing equipment based on the determination result of the material category" specifically includes: If the material belongs to the first category, the washing equipment is controlled to alternately introduce water in the order of cold water first and then hot water until the target water level is reached; The first category of materials includes materials that have low tolerance to hot water.

3. The water inlet control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of "determining the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing equipment based on the determination result of the material category" further includes: If the material belongs to the second type of material, then obtain the color of the clothing; Determine whether the color belongs to the dark color family; Based on the determination result of whether the color belongs to the dark color family, the water inlet method of the washing equipment for hot water and cold water is determined; The second type of material includes materials that have a moderate tolerance to hot water.

4. The water inlet control method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The step of "determining the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing equipment based on the judgment result of whether the color belongs to the dark color family" specifically includes: If the color belongs to the dark color family, then control the washing equipment to alternately introduce water in the order of cold water first, then hot water, until the target water level is reached; and / or If the color is light, the washing equipment is controlled to alternately introduce water in the order of hot water first and then cold water until the target water level is reached.

5. The water inlet control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of "determining the water inlet method for the washing equipment, including hot and cold water, based on the determination of whether the clothing is children's clothing" specifically includes: If the clothing is children's clothing, the washing equipment is controlled to alternately introduce water in the order of hot water first and then cold water until the target water level is reached.

6. The water inlet control method according to any one of claims 2, 4 and 5, characterized in that, The water inlet control method further includes: Get the weight of the clothing; The target water level is determined based on the weight.

7. The water inlet control method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, Before "determining the water inlet method for hot and cold water in the washing equipment based on the judgment result of the material category", the water inlet control method further includes: The temperature of the washing water is determined according to the material described. Only after the temperature of the washing water is determined is the operation performed to determine the water inlet method of the washing equipment, namely hot water and cold water, based on the judgment result of the material category.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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