A dishwasher and control method

Abstract

This application discloses a dishwasher and its control method, relating to the field of home appliance technology, for enhancing the sterilization rate of the dishwasher and saving its energy consumption, thereby improving the user experience. The dishwasher includes: a shell, a sterilization device, an inner tub disposed within the shell, a circulation pipe, a hot air system, a humidity sensor, and a controller. The inner tub has an air inlet and an air outlet; the two ends of the circulation pipe are respectively connected to the air inlet and the air outlet; the sterilization device is disposed within the circulation pipe for sterilizing the air passing through the circulation pipe; when the storage program begins, the controller controls the hot air system to start working until the humidity value in the inner tub is less than or equal to a first humidity threshold; after the hot air system stops working, it detects whether the humidity value in the inner tub is greater than a second humidity threshold, and the second humidity threshold is greater than the first humidity threshold; after detecting that the humidity value in the inner tub is greater than the second humidity threshold, it controls the sterilization device to start working.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of home appliance technology, and in particular to a dishwasher and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] As people's living standards improve, more and more home appliances are entering ordinary households, bringing a lot of convenience to people's lives, such as dishwashers and air conditioners. Dishwashers are mainly used to automatically clean tableware. During the washing and storage process, sterilization and disinfection are required to kill viruses and bacteria on the tableware and inside the dishwasher.

[0003] Currently, dishwashers typically rely on high temperatures during washing for sterilization. As people's living standards improve, users have higher requirements for post-wash sterilization and proper storage of tableware. Related technologies usually involve installing a fan and sterilization device outside the dishwasher's inner tub. The fan blows outside air into the inner tub after sterilization by the sterilization device. However, this method cannot effectively kill bacteria inside the dishwasher, and the sterilization effect of the sterilization device is significantly affected when the fan speed is high, resulting in a very limited sterilization effect for the dishwasher.

[0004] In addition, during the dishwasher's storage program, the fan and sterilization device need to be turned on for a long time to ensure the sterilization and storage effect of the dishwasher, which will result in a large energy consumption of the dishwasher. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention provide a dishwasher and a control method to solve the technical problems of poor sterilization effect and high energy consumption of dishwashers in related technologies.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this invention adopt the following technical solutions:

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application disclose a dishwasher, comprising: a shell, a sterilization device, an inner tub disposed within the shell, a circulation pipe, a hot air system, a humidity sensor, and a controller. The inner tub has an air inlet and an air outlet; the two ends of the circulation pipe are respectively connected to the air inlet and the air outlet; the sterilization device is disposed within the circulation pipe for sterilizing the air passing through the circulation pipe; the hot air system is used to regulate the humidity value in the inner tub; when the storage program begins execution, the controller controls the hot air system to start working until the humidity value in the inner tub is less than or equal to a first humidity threshold; after the hot air system stops working, it detects whether the humidity value in the inner tub is greater than a second humidity threshold, wherein the second humidity threshold is greater than the first humidity threshold; after detecting that the humidity value in the inner tub is greater than the second humidity threshold, it controls the sterilization device to start working.

[0008] The dishwasher provided in this application includes: a shell, a sterilization device, an inner tub, a circulation pipe, a hot air system, a humidity sensor, and a controller. The inner tub is housed within the shell and has an air inlet and an air outlet connected by a circulation pipe, allowing gas within the inner tub to flow along the pipe. The sterilization device is also located within the circulation pipe and is used to sterilize the passing gas. Thus, when gas flowing into the circulation pipe passes through the sterilization device, the device sterilizes the gas. During the operation of the sterilization device, the bacterial content of the gas in the inner tub continuously decreases, thereby improving the sterilization rate of the dishwasher and enhancing the user experience.

[0009] Furthermore, when the storage program begins, the controller activates the hot air system until the humidity level inside the drum is less than or equal to a first humidity threshold. After the hot air system stops, it checks if the humidity level inside the drum is greater than a second humidity threshold, which in turn is greater than the first. If the second humidity threshold is detected to be greater than the second humidity threshold, the controller activates the sterilization device. In other words, when the dishwasher starts the storage program, it activates the hot air system until the humidity level inside the drum is less than or equal to the first humidity threshold. This reduces the humidity level inside the drum, preventing high humidity that could lead to excessive bacterial growth.

[0010] Understandably, after the hot air system stops working, residual water droplets in the inner drum will evaporate into the air inside, leading to increased humidity and bacterial growth. Therefore, if the humidity level in the inner drum exceeds a second humidity threshold after the hot air system stops working, the sterilization device will be activated. Since the sterilization device only activates under certain conditions, energy consumption can be reduced while maintaining the dishwasher's sterilization rate, thus improving the user experience.

[0011] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to control the sterilization device to stop working when the working time of the sterilization device reaches a preset working time.

[0012] In some embodiments, the dishwasher further includes: a flow detection device disposed in a circulation pipe for detecting and calculating the gas flow rate flowing from the circulation pipe into the inner tank; the controller is further configured to: acquire a first gas flow rate through the flow detection device, the first gas flow rate being the gas flow rate flowing from the circulation pipe into the inner tank; and control the sterilization device to stop working if the first gas flow rate is greater than or equal to a preset flow threshold.

[0013] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to: after the controller stops the sterilization device from working, if the current time has not exceeded a preset storage time point, control the hot air system to work again until the humidity value in the inner liner is less than or equal to a first humidity threshold.

[0014] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to terminate the storage procedure if the current time reaches the storage time point.

[0015] In some embodiments, the sterilization device includes a first ion generator and a second ion generator, both of which are disposed in a circulation pipeline.

[0016] In some embodiments, the circulation pipeline includes: a first circulation pipeline and a second circulation pipeline, one end of both the first and second circulation pipelines being connected to an air inlet, and the other end of both the first and second circulation pipelines being connected to an air outlet; a first ion generator is disposed in the first circulation pipeline for sterilizing the gas passing through the first circulation pipeline, and a second ion generator is disposed in the second circulation pipeline for sterilizing the gas passing through the second circulation pipeline.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first ion generator includes: a first power source, a first component, and a second component;

[0018] The first component includes: a first positive electrode, a first ground electrode, and a first insulator; the first positive electrode is connected to the positive terminal of a first power supply; the first ground electrode is grounded, and the first insulator is disposed between the first positive electrode and the first ground electrode; the second component includes: a second positive electrode, a second ground electrode, and a second insulator; the second positive electrode is connected to the positive terminal of the first power supply; the second ground electrode is grounded; the second insulator is disposed between the second positive electrode and the second ground electrode; there is a gap between the first ground electrode and the second ground electrode, forming a channel through which gas in the circulation pipe passes.

[0019] In some embodiments, the second ion generator includes: a second power source, a chamber, a third insulator, a third positive electrode, and a first negative electrode; the chamber has an opening and an outlet, the outlet being connected to a circulation pipe; the third insulator is disposed at the opening of the chamber, and an inlet is formed on the third insulator, the inlet being connected to the circulation pipe, and an outlet channel is formed between the inlet and the outlet; the third positive electrode is located inside the chamber and connected to the positive terminal of the second power source, and is disposed on one side of the outlet channel; the first negative electrode is located inside the chamber and connected to the negative terminal of the second power source, is disposed on the other side of the outlet channel, and is disposed opposite to the third positive electrode.

[0020] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a control method for a dishwasher. The method is applied to a dishwasher and includes: when the storage program is started, controlling the hot air system to start working until the humidity value in the inner tank is less than or equal to a first humidity threshold; after the hot air system stops working, detecting whether the humidity value in the inner tank is greater than a second humidity threshold, wherein the second humidity threshold is greater than the first humidity threshold; and after detecting that the humidity value in the inner tank is greater than the second humidity threshold, controlling the sterilization device to start working.

[0021] In some embodiments, the control method of the dishwasher further includes: controlling the sterilization device to stop working when the working time of the sterilization device reaches a preset working time; or, obtaining a first gas flow rate through a flow detection device, the first gas flow rate being the gas flow rate flowing into the inner tank from the circulation pipe; if the first gas flow rate is greater than or equal to a preset flow rate threshold, controlling the sterilization device to stop working.

[0022] In some embodiments, the control method of the dishwasher further includes: after the controller stops the sterilization device, if the current time has not exceeded the preset storage time point, controlling the hot air system to work again until the humidity value in the inner tank is less than or equal to the first humidity threshold.

[0023] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a controller, including: one or more processors; one or more memories; wherein the one or more memories are used to store computer program code, the computer program code including computer instructions, and when the one or more processors execute the computer instructions, the controller executes any of the dishwasher control methods provided in the second aspect.

[0024] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium including computer instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform any of the dishwasher control methods provided in the second aspect.

[0025] Fifthly, embodiments of the present invention provide a computer program product that can be directly loaded into a memory and contains software code. After being loaded and executed by a computer, the computer program product can implement any of the dishwasher control methods provided in the second aspect.

[0026] It should be noted that the aforementioned computer instructions may be stored, in whole or in part, on a computer-readable storage medium. This computer-readable storage medium may be packaged together with the controller's processor, or it may be packaged separately from the controller's processor; this application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0027] The beneficial effects described in aspects two through five of this application can be referred to the analysis of the beneficial effects of aspect one, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of a dishwasher provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 2 This is a second schematic diagram of the structure of a dishwasher provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 3 This is the third schematic diagram of a sterilization device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0031] Figure 4 This is the fourth schematic diagram of a sterilization device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 5 This is the fifth schematic diagram of a sterilization device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 6 This is the sixth schematic diagram of a sterilization device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 7 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of a first ion generator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 8 This is a second schematic diagram of the structure of a first ion generator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second ion generator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit connection structure of a dishwasher provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 11 This is one of the flowcharts illustrating a dishwasher control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 12 A second schematic flowchart illustrating a dishwasher control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 13 The third schematic flowchart illustrates a dishwasher control method provided in this application embodiment;

[0041] Figure 14 The fourth schematic flowchart illustrates a dishwasher control method provided in this application embodiment;

[0042] Figure 15 Fifth schematic flowchart of a dishwasher control method provided in this application embodiment;

[0043] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of a controller provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0044] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0045] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed application, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0046] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0047] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product of the invention is in use. They are used only for the convenience of describing this application 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. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0048] Furthermore, terms such as "horizontal" and "vertical" do not imply that components must be absolutely horizontal or suspended, but rather that they can be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal than "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but can be slightly tilted.

[0049] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," "connect," and "link" 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 between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0050] With the development of the times and the continuous improvement of people's requirements for quality of life, dishwashers have gradually entered people's homes. Dishwashers are mainly used to automatically clean tableware. When using a dishwasher to clean tableware and during the storage process after washing, it is necessary to disinfect the tableware to kill viruses and bacteria on the tableware and inside the dishwasher.

[0051] Dishwashers using this technology typically have a fan and sterilization device installed outside their inner tub. The fan blows air from outside the inner tub into the inner tub after sterilization by the sterilization device. Since the air inside the inner tub cannot be circulated and sterilized, the sterilization effect of this type of dishwasher is limited.

[0052] Furthermore, when the fan speed is high, the airflow from the outside of the inner liner into the inside is faster, while the sterilization effect of the sterilization device is limited, resulting in poor sterilization effect and making it easy for a large number of bacteria to enter the inner liner.

[0053] In addition, during the storage program of the dishwasher, the fan and sterilization device need to be turned on for a long time in order to ensure the cleanliness of the air inside the dishwasher, which will result in a large energy consumption of the dishwasher.

[0054] In view of this, this application provides a dishwasher with an air inlet and an air outlet on its inner tub, which are connected by a circulation pipe to allow gas inside the tub to flow along the circulation pipe. A sterilization device is also installed in the circulation pipe to sterilize the passing gas. Thus, when gas flowing into the circulation pipe passes through the sterilization device, the sterilization device sterilizes the gas. During the operation of the sterilization device, the bacterial content of the gas in the inner tub continuously decreases, thereby improving the sterilization rate of the dishwasher and enhancing the user experience.

[0055] Furthermore, when the storage program begins, the controller activates the hot air system until the humidity level inside the drum is less than or equal to a first humidity threshold. After the hot air system stops, it checks if the humidity level inside the drum is greater than a second humidity threshold, which in turn is greater than the first. If the second humidity threshold is detected to be greater than the second humidity threshold, the controller activates the sterilization device. In other words, when the dishwasher starts the storage program, it activates the hot air system until the humidity level inside the drum is less than or equal to the first humidity threshold. This reduces the humidity level inside the drum, preventing high humidity that could lead to excessive bacterial growth.

[0056] When the hot air system stops working, the water droplets remaining in the inner drum evaporate into the air inside, increasing humidity and promoting bacterial growth. Therefore, if the humidity level in the inner drum exceeds a second humidity threshold after the hot air system stops, the sterilization device is activated. Because the sterilization device only activates under certain conditions, energy consumption can be reduced while maintaining a high sterilization rate, thus improving the user experience.

[0057] For ease of description, this application first describes the structure of the dishwasher. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a dishwasher provided in an embodiment of this application is shown, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the dishwasher 000 includes: a housing 00, an inner tub 10, a circulation pipe 20, a sterilization device 30, a hot air system 40, a humidity sensor 50, and a controller 60.

[0058] The circulation pipe 20 and the sterilization device 30 constitute the sterilization system 01 of the dishwasher 000, which is used to reduce bacteria in the inner tub 10 of the dishwasher 000.

[0059] Additionally, the housing may include an inner liner 10, a circulation pipe 20, a sterilization device 30, a hot air system 40, a humidity sensor 50, and a controller 60. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image).

[0060] Optionally, the shell 00 can be made of a metal, such as stainless steel, aluminum alloy, or zinc-containing steel plate. This gives the shell 00 a certain strength, reducing deformation when it collides with other objects and extending its service life.

[0061] Optionally, the shell 00 can also be made of plastic, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high-impact polystyrene (HIPS), polycarbonate (PC), or polyethylene glycol terephthalate (PET). This allows the shell 00 to be integrally molded using injection molding, improving production efficiency and reducing production costs.

[0062] The shape of the shell 00 can be a regular three-dimensional structure, such as a cuboid structure or a cylindrical structure. The shape of the shell 00 can also be an irregular three-dimensional structure. This application does not limit the shape of the shell 00.

[0063] In addition, the inner liner 10 is located inside the shell 00, and the inner liner has an air inlet 11 and an air outlet 12.

[0064] The inner liner 10 can be made of plastic, metal, or ceramic materials, such as ceramics or enamel. This application does not limit the material used.

[0065] Similarly, the inner liner 10 can be a cuboid cavity or a cylindrical cavity. The cross-sections of the air outlet 12 and the air inlet 11 can be circular, square, or other shapes, and this application does not limit them.

[0066] For example Figure 1 As shown, one end of the circulation pipe 20 is connected to the air inlet 11, and the other end of the circulation pipe 20 is connected to the air outlet 12.

[0067] Optionally, the material of the circulation pipe 20 can be a plastic pipe. For example, the plastic pipe can be a polypropylene pipe, etc., and this application does not limit it.

[0068] Optionally, the material of the circulation pipe 20 can also be a metal pipe, such as an alloy steel pipe or a carbon steel pipe, etc. This application does not limit this.

[0069] In addition, the sterilization device 30 is installed in the circulation pipe 20 to sterilize the gas passing through the circulation pipe 20.

[0070] In one possible implementation, the sterilization device 30 can be an ultraviolet ray (UV) lamp. The UV lamp works by adding a measured amount of high-purity mercury to a vacuum quartz tube. By providing a voltage difference (voltage drop) to the electrodes at both ends, ion discharge is generated, thus producing ultraviolet radiation. When setting up the UV lamp, the emitting surface of the UV lamp is directed towards the circulation pipe 20 so that the gas passing through the circulation pipe 20 is sterilized by ultraviolet irradiation.

[0071] In another possible implementation, such as Figure 2 As shown, the sterilization device 30 is an ion generator 31. The ion generator 31 uses a high-voltage transformer to boost the power frequency voltage to the required voltage, thereby ionizing the gas flowing between the electrodes of the plasma generator 31 to generate plasma gas, which kills the bacteria in the gas drawn into the circulation pipe 20 by the inner liner 10, thus achieving the sterilization effect.

[0072] In order to improve the flow of gas in the circulation pipe, in one possible implementation, the sterilization system 01 of the dishwasher 000 may further include: a gas delivery device 70 disposed in the housing 00 for allowing gas in the inner tank 10 to flow into the circulation pipe 20.

[0073] Optional, such as Figure 1 As shown, the gas delivery device 70 is installed in the circulation pipe 20 to draw gas from the inner liner 10 into the circulation pipe 20. For example, as Figure 1 As shown, the gas delivery device 70 can be installed inside the circulation pipe 20 and near the air inlet 11; or the gas delivery device 70 can be installed in the circulation pipe 20 near the air inlet 11.

[0074] Optionally, the gas delivery device 70 can also be installed inside the inner liner 10 to allow gas in the inner liner 10 to enter the circulation pipe 20. For example, the gas delivery device 70 can be installed inside the inner liner 10 and near the air outlet 12 to blow gas from the inner liner 10 into the circulation pipe 20; the gas delivery device 70 can also be installed inside the inner liner 10 and near the air outlet 12 to draw gas from the circulation pipe 20 into the inner liner 10, so that the gas in the circulation pipe 20 and the inner liner 10 circulate.

[0075] In one possible implementation, the gas delivery device 70 can be an air pump, also known as an air pump, which is a device for removing or adding air to a closed space. This air pump is installed within the circulation pipe 20 to allow gas from the inner liner 10 to flow into the circulation pipe 20. This allows gas from the inner liner 10 to be drawn into the circulation pipe 20.

[0076] In another possible implementation, the gas delivery device 70 can also be a blower, which is a machine that uses input mechanical energy to increase gas pressure and discharge gas. The blower can be installed inside the inner liner 10 to blow gas from the inner liner 10 into the circulation pipe 20. The blower can also be installed in the circulation pipe 20 to blow gas from the circulation pipe 20 into the inner liner 10.

[0077] The hot air system 40 is used to regulate the humidity level inside the inner liner 10. In one possible implementation, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the hot air system 40 may include a pipe 43 connected to the inner liner 10, so that the hot air system 40 can regulate the humidity value in the inner liner 10; in another possible implementation, the hot air system 40 may also be disposed in the inner liner 10, thereby regulating the humidity value in the inner liner 10.

[0078] Optional, such as Figure 1As shown, the hot air system 40 may further include a heater 41 and a fan 42. The heater 41 is disposed on the air outlet side of the fan 42 and is used to heat the air blown out by the fan 42. This improves the airflow in the inner liner 10, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the heater 41 on the gas in the inner liner 10.

[0079] Optional, such as Figure 2 As shown, the hot air system 40 may include a wet / dry heater 411, which may be disposed in the inner tank 10 and located at the bottom of the inner tank 10. The wet / dry heater 411 is used to heat the air temperature in the inner tank 10, thereby regulating the humidity value of the air in the inner tank 10. The wet / dry heater 411 is also used to heat the temperature of the washing water in the inner tank 10, thereby improving the cleanliness of the dishes washed by the dishwasher 000.

[0080] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, the humidity sensor 50 can be installed in the circulation pipe 20. Since the gas in the inner liner 10 passes through the circulation pipe 20, the humidity value in the inner liner 10 can be detected. The humidity sensor 50 is an instrument for measuring air humidity.

[0081] For example, the humidity sensor 50 can be a humidity-sensitive element. Humidity-sensitive elements are mainly divided into two categories: resistive and capacitive. Resistive humidity-sensitive elements are characterized by a film made of a moisture-sensitive material coated on a substrate. When water vapor in the air is adsorbed onto the moisture-sensitive film, the resistivity and resistance of the element change, and this characteristic can be used to measure humidity. Capacitive humidity-sensitive elements are generally made of polymer thin-film capacitors. Commonly used polymer materials include polystyrene, polyimide, and cellulose acetate butyrate. When the ambient humidity changes, the dielectric constant of the humidity-sensitive capacitor changes, causing its capacitance to change. The change in capacitance is proportional to the relative humidity.

[0082] Furthermore, the controller 60 refers to a device that can generate operation control signals based on instruction opcodes and timing signals, instructing the dishwasher 000 to execute control instructions. Exemplarily, the controller 60 can be a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a programmable logic device (PLD), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, or any combination thereof. The controller 60 can also be other devices with processing functions, such as circuits, devices, or software modules; this application embodiment does not impose any limitations on this.

[0083] For example, the controller 60 can execute the following control instructions: when the storage procedure is started, the controller 60 controls the hot air system 40 to start working until the humidity value in the inner liner 10 is less than or equal to a first humidity threshold; after the hot air system 40 stops working, it detects whether the humidity value in the inner liner 10 is greater than a second humidity threshold, and the second humidity threshold is greater than the first humidity threshold; after detecting that the humidity value in the inner liner 10 is greater than the second humidity threshold, it controls the sterilization device 30 to start working.

[0084] The dishwasher 000 provided in this application includes: a housing 00, a sterilization device 30, an inner tub 10, a circulation pipe 20, a hot air system 40, a humidity sensor 50, and a controller 60. The inner tub 10 is disposed within the housing 00 and has an air inlet 11 and an air outlet 12. The air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12 are connected through the circulation pipe 20, allowing gas within the inner tub 10 to flow along the circulation pipe 20. The sterilization device 30 is also disposed within the circulation pipe 20 and is used to sterilize the passing gas. Thus, when gas flowing into the circulation pipe 20 passes through the sterilization device 30, the sterilization device 30 sterilizes the gas. During the operation of the sterilization device 30, the bacterial content of the gas in the inner tub 10 continuously decreases, thereby improving the sterilization rate of the dishwasher 000 and enhancing the user experience.

[0085] Furthermore, when the storage program begins, the controller 60 controls the hot air system 40 to start operating until the humidity level in the inner tank 10 is less than or equal to a first humidity threshold. After the hot air system 40 stops operating, it detects whether the humidity level in the inner tank 10 is greater than a second humidity threshold, which is greater than the first humidity threshold. If the second humidity threshold is detected to be greater than the second humidity threshold, the controller controls the sterilization device 30 to start operating. In other words, when the dishwasher 000 starts executing the storage program, it controls the hot air system 40 to start operating until the humidity level in the inner tank 10 is less than or equal to the first humidity threshold. This reduces the air humidity level in the inner tank 10, thereby preventing high humidity levels inside the inner tank 10 that could lead to excessive bacterial growth.

[0086] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the dishwasher 000 may also include a breather 80, the two ends of which are connected to the air inlet 11 and the inner tank 10 respectively, for introducing hot air into the dishwasher 000, and diverting and temporarily storing water, etc.

[0087] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the dishwasher 000 may include: a first ion generator 311; in other embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the dishwasher 000 may include: a second ion generator 312, and in other embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the ion generator 31 of the dishwasher 000 may include both a first ion generator 311 and a second ion generator 312.

[0088] When the dishwasher 000 includes both a first ion generator 311 and a second ion generator 312, please refer to the following description.

[0089] In one possible implementation, the first ion generator 311 and the second ion generator 312 are connected in parallel. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the circulation pipe 20 includes: a first circulation pipe 21 and a second circulation pipe 22, one end of the first circulation pipe 21 and the second circulation pipe 22 are connected to the air inlet 11, and the other end of the first circulation pipe 21 and the second circulation pipe 22 are connected to the air outlet 12; a first ion generator 311 is disposed in the first circulation pipe 21 for sterilizing the gas passing through the first circulation pipe 21, and a second ion generator 312 is disposed in the second circulation pipe 22 for sterilizing the gas passing through the second circulation pipe 22.

[0090] In this way, the gas inside the inner tank 10 can enter through the first circulation pipe 21 or the second circulation pipe 22 and be sterilized by the first ion generator 311 or the second ion generator 312. By setting two circulation pipes 20 to sterilize the gas in the inner tank 10, the sterilization efficiency of the dishwasher 000 is improved.

[0091] In another possible implementation, such as Figure 6 As shown, the first ion generator 311 and the second ion generator 312 are connected in series, that is, the first ion generator 311 and the second ion generator 312 are installed in the circulation pipe 20.

[0092] Optional, such as Figure 6 As shown, the first ion generator 311 can be positioned between the second ion generator 312 and the air inlet 11, and the second ion generator 312 can also be positioned between the first ion generator 311 and the air outlet 12. This application does not limit the specific locations of the first ion generator 311 and the second ion generator 312. In this way, the gas flowing from the inner tank 10 into the circulation pipe 20 passes sequentially through the first ion generator 311 and the second ion generator 312, resulting in two rounds of sterilization, reducing the bacterial content in the air and improving the sterilization effect of the dishwasher 000.

[0093] Furthermore, in some embodiments, such as Figure 5As shown, the gas delivery device 70 includes a first gas delivery device 71 and a second gas delivery device 72. The first gas delivery device 71 is disposed on the first circulation pipe 21, and the second gas delivery device 72 is disposed on the second circulation pipe 22. In this way, gas delivery devices 70 are disposed on both the first circulation pipe 21 and the second circulation pipe 22, thereby further improving the gas flow.

[0094] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first ion generator 311 includes: a first power supply 33, a first component 34 and a second component 35; a channel 36 is provided between the first component 34 and the second component 35, and the gas in the circulation pipe 20 passes through the channel 36.

[0095] Among them, for example Figure 7 As shown, the first component 34 includes a first positive electrode 341, a first ground electrode 342, and a first insulator 343. The first positive electrode 341 is connected to the positive terminal of the first power supply 33; the first ground electrode 342 is grounded, that is, connected to the ground of the socket or the ground plane. The first insulator 343 is disposed between the first positive electrode 341 and the first ground electrode 342, connecting the first positive electrode 341 and the first ground electrode 342.

[0096] The second component 35 includes a second positive electrode 351, a second ground electrode 352, and a second insulator 353. The second positive electrode 351 is also connected to the positive terminal of the first power supply 33; the second ground electrode 352 is grounded, i.e., connected to the ground of the socket or the ground plane. The second insulator 353 is disposed between the second positive electrode 351 and the second ground electrode 352, connecting the second positive electrode 351 and the second ground electrode 352. There is a gap between the first ground electrode 352 and the second ground electrode 352, forming a channel 36 through which gas in the circulation pipe 20 passes.

[0097] The first power supply 33 can be a high-voltage power supply, such as a sinusoidal power supply, a DC power supply, or a radio frequency power supply; this application does not limit this. The output voltage of the first power supply 33 can be 2kV-10kV, and the output power can be 1-100W. The ion source of the first ion generator 311 can be dielectric barrier discharge, jet discharge, or corona discharge, etc. The ions generated by the first ion generator 311 can be mainly ozone, which has high oxidizing power. The highly oxidizing ions combine with bacteria in the air and destroy the cell walls of the bacteria, thereby rendering the bacteria inactive and killing them.

[0098] Furthermore, by way of example, the materials of the first positive electrode 341 and the second positive electrode 351 can be copper foil, the materials of the first ground electrode 342 and the second ground electrode 352 can be stainless steel, and the materials of the first insulator 343 and the second insulator 353 can be alumina ceramic dielectric plates.

[0099] In one possible design, the first positive electrode 341 and the second positive electrode 351 are both 1mm thick flat copper plates, the first insulator 343 and the second insulator 353 are both 1mm thick alumina ceramic dielectric plates, the second ground electrode 342 and the second ground electrode 352 are both 0.5mm thick hexagonal mesh stainless steel, the first ground electrode 342 and the second ground electrode 352 are located on opposite sides of the channel 36, and the power supply is a 10kHz sinusoidal power supply with a power of 50W.

[0100] In another possible design, such as Figure 8 As shown, the first ion generator 311 has a cylindrical structure. The inner part is a 1mm thick copper cylindrical tube serving as the first positive electrode 341 and the second positive electrode 351. The middle part is a 1mm thick quartz tube serving as the first insulator 343 and the second insulator 353. The quartz tube is tightly attached to the copper cylindrical tube. The outer part is a 0.5mm thick stainless steel tube serving as the first ground electrode 342 and the second ground electrode 352, which is tightly attached to the quartz tube.

[0101] It is understood that the above description of the materials, shapes, specifications, etc. of the first component 34, the second component 35, and the first power supply 33 is merely an illustrative example and does not constitute a limitation on the first component 34, the second component 35, and the first power supply 33.

[0102] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 As shown, the second ion generator 312 includes: a second power supply 37, a chamber 38, a third insulator 39, a third positive electrode 381, and a first negative electrode 382.

[0103] The chamber 38 is provided with an inlet and an outlet 383, with the outlet 383 connected to the circulation pipe 20. A third insulator 39 is located at the opening of the chamber 38, and an inlet 391 is provided on the third insulator 39, connected to the circulation pipe 20. An outlet channel is formed between the inlet 11 and the outlet 12. The third positive electrode 381 and the first negative electrode 382 are both located within the chamber 38. The third positive electrode 381 is connected to the positive terminal of the second power supply 37 and is located on one side of the outlet channel; the first negative electrode 382 is connected to the negative terminal of the second power supply 37 and is located on the other side of the outlet channel, opposite to the third positive electrode 381.

[0104] The third positive electrode 381 and the first negative electrode 382 can be made of stainless steel sheets, the chamber 38 can be made of quartz glass, and the third insulator 39 can be made of alumina ceramic dielectric or quartz. The ions generated by the second ion generator 312 can be mainly nitrogen and oxygen.

[0105] In one possible design, such as Figure 9As shown, two trapezoidal stainless steel sheets (i.e., the third positive electrode 381 and the first negative electrode 382), each 2mm thick, 20mm at the top, 10mm at the bottom, and 40mm high, are fixed on the same plane. The top and bottom surfaces are coplanar. A φ1mm air inlet 391 is provided on the third insulator 39 at the opening, allowing gas to be ejected vertically downwards along the air inlet 391. All of the above components are fixed inside a quartz chamber 38. The high-voltage power supply is a 50Hz, 50W sinusoidal high-voltage power supply. During discharge, an electric arc is generated at the closest point of the two trapezoidal electrodes. The arc is blown downwards by the airflow and then breaks, and a new electric arc is generated at the closest point, continuously cycling to produce ions mainly composed of nitrogen and oxygen. These ions have high oxidizing properties. The highly oxidizing ions combine with bacteria in the air and destroy the bacterial cell walls, thereby causing the bacteria to lose their activity and killing the bacteria in the air.

[0106] It is understood that the above description of the materials, shapes, sizes, and specifications of the second power source 37, chamber 38, third insulator 39, third positive electrode 381, and first negative electrode 382 is merely an illustrative example and does not constitute a limitation of this application.

[0107] To ensure the sterilization effect in the sterilization device 30, it is necessary to control the gas flow rate passing through the sterilization device 30. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the dishwasher 000 also includes a flow detection device 90, which can be installed in the circulation pipe 20 to detect and calculate the flow rate of gas flowing from the circulation pipe 20 into the inner tank 10.

[0108] Understandably, when the gas flow rate from the circulation pipe 20 into the inner tank 10 is low, the dishwasher 000 can effectively sterilize the gas passing through the sterilization device 30, resulting in a good sterilization effect. However, when the gas flow rate from the circulation pipe 20 into the inner tank 10 is high, the dishwasher 000 cannot thoroughly sterilize the gas passing through the sterilization device 30 due to the excessively fast gas flow rate, leading to a poor sterilization effect. Therefore, this application incorporates a flow detection device 90 to detect and calculate the gas flow rate from the circulation pipe 20 into the inner tank 10. If the gas flow rate is too high, the rotation speed of the air delivery device 70 can be reduced, thereby ensuring a better sterilization effect for the dishwasher 000.

[0109] It is understandable that, such as Figure 10As shown, the temperature sensor 50, hot air system 40, flow detection device 90, sterilization device 30, air supply device 70, etc. described above can all be electrically connected to the controller 60 so that the controller 60 can realize the various predetermined functions of the dishwasher 000 by controlling multiple components (i.e., temperature sensor 50, hot air system 40, flow detection device 90, sterilization device 30, etc.).

[0110] like Figure 11 As shown in the figure, this application provides a control method for a dishwasher, applied to the controller of the dishwasher described above. The method includes the following steps:

[0111] S101. When the storage procedure is started, the hot air system is controlled to start working until the humidity value in the inner tank is less than or equal to the first humidity threshold.

[0112] Dishwashers typically include a washing program and a storage program, with the storage program following the washing program. During the washing program, the controller usually directs the washing unit to clean the dishes inside the dishwasher. The purpose of the storage program is to prevent users from leaving dishes in the drum in time, allowing bacteria to grow on the damp surface. Using such bacteria-laden dishes for food can seriously affect a user's health. This storage program is used to preserve the dishes inside the drum, preventing them from becoming contaminated with bacteria.

[0113] Additionally, it is understandable that immediately after the washing cycle is completed, the bacteria content in both the dishes and the inner tank is low due to the tap water rinsing the dishes. Therefore, activating the sterilization device at this time would not provide significant sterilization benefits.

[0114] The first humidity threshold is a preset humidity value. It is understood that when the ambient humidity is lower than 60 (relative humidity, RH), the bacterial growth rate is low. Therefore, for example, the first humidity threshold can be 60RH. The first humidity threshold can also be other values, which are not limited in this application.

[0115] In one possible implementation, the first humidity threshold is preset by the storage program within the controller, meaning that the user cannot change the first humidity threshold.

[0116] In another possible implementation, the first humidity threshold is a value set by the user, meaning the user can change it. For example, before the dishwasher starts operating, the user can use the control panel on the dishwasher to write the operating parameters (i.e., the first humidity threshold), thus allowing for fine-grained control of the dishwasher and increasing user engagement.

[0117] This means that when the humidity level inside the liner is less than or equal to a first humidity threshold, the controller stops the heating system. In other words, the controller first obtains the humidity level inside the liner through a humidity sensor, then determines whether the obtained humidity level is less than or equal to the first humidity threshold. If it is, the controller stops the heating system; otherwise, it continues operating.

[0118] In one possible implementation, the controller can periodically acquire the humidity value of the inner liner via a humidity sensor. For example, the humidity value of the inner liner is acquired sequentially every thirty seconds, and then the acquired humidity value is compared with a first humidity threshold.

[0119] In another possible implementation, the controller can also acquire the humidity value in the inner tank in real time via a humidity sensor.

[0120] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the hot air system further includes a heater, in which case controlling the hot air system to start operating when the storage procedure begins may include controlling the heater to start operating when the storage procedure begins.

[0121] In other embodiments, the hot air system includes a heater and a fan, in which case controlling the hot air system to start operating when the storage procedure begins may include controlling both the heater and the fan to start operating when the storage procedure begins.

[0122] S102. After the hot air system stops working, check whether the humidity value in the inner tank is greater than the second humidity threshold. The second humidity threshold is greater than the first humidity threshold.

[0123] It should be understood that after the hot air system stops working, the humidity in the inner drum is less than or equal to the first humidity threshold. However, the evaporation of residual water in the dishwasher's internal water tank or on the dishes will cause the humidity in the dishwasher's inner drum to increase. When the humidity in the inner drum is high, bacteria will grow in large numbers.

[0124] In addition, the second humidity threshold can also be a preset humidity value. It is understood that bacteria will grow in large numbers when the ambient humidity is higher than 70RH. Therefore, for example, the second temperature threshold can be 70RH, and the second humidity threshold can also be other values. This application does not limit this.

[0125] Similarly, the second temperature threshold can be a value preset by the storage program or a value set by the user, which will not be elaborated further in this application.

[0126] In one possible implementation, after the hot air system stops working, the controller periodically obtains the humidity value in the inner tank through the humidity sensor.

[0127] In another possible implementation, the controller acquires the humidity value in the inner tank in real time after the hot air system stops working.

[0128] S103. After detecting that the humidity value in the inner liner is greater than the second humidity threshold, control the sterilization device to start working.

[0129] That is, when the controller detects that the humidity value in the inner liner is greater than the second humidity threshold, the controller sends an electrical signal to the sterilization device, and the sterilization device starts working after receiving the electrical signal.

[0130] In one possible implementation, the dishwasher is also equipped with an air supply device. In this case, controlling the sterilization device to start working after detecting that the humidity value in the inner tub is greater than the second humidity threshold may include: controlling both the sterilization device and the air supply device to start working after detecting that the humidity value in the inner tub is greater than the second humidity threshold.

[0131] In this embodiment of the dishwasher controller, when the storage program begins, the hot air system is activated until the humidity level in the inner tub is less than or equal to a first humidity threshold. After the hot air system stops operating, the humidity level in the inner tub is checked to see if it exceeds a second humidity threshold, which in turn exceeds the first humidity threshold. If the second humidity threshold is detected to be greater than the second humidity threshold, the sterilization device is activated. In other words, when the dishwasher starts the storage program, the hot air system is activated until the humidity level in the inner tub is less than or equal to the first humidity threshold. This reduces the humidity level in the inner tub, thereby preventing high humidity and the resulting bacterial growth.

[0132] Understandably, after the hot air system stops working, residual water droplets on the dishes will evaporate into the air inside the dishwasher, leading to increased humidity and bacterial growth. Therefore, if the humidity level inside the dishwasher exceeds a second humidity threshold after the hot air system stops, the sterilization device will be activated. Since the sterilization device only activates under certain conditions, energy consumption can be reduced while maintaining a high sterilization rate, thus improving the user experience.

[0133] In some embodiments, such as Figure 12 As shown, after step S103, the control method may further include the following steps:

[0134] S201. When the sterilization device reaches the preset working time, control the sterilization device to stop working.

[0135] The preset working time can be pre-set by the storage program or a value set by the user, which will not be elaborated further in this application. For example, the preset working time can be 30 minutes, 20 minutes, or 10 minutes, etc., and this application does not limit it.

[0136] When the controller periodically acquires the humidity inside the inner tank, the humidity value acquired may be much higher than the second humidity threshold. In this case, there are more bacteria in the inner tank. To ensure the sterilization effect of the dishwasher, in some embodiments, the controller includes a storage unit that stores a table showing the correspondence between humidity values ​​and preset operating times. For example, this correspondence table can be shown in Table 1 below.

[0137] Table 1

[0138]

[0139]

[0140] For example, when the humidity value obtained by the controller is 72RH, the controller retrieves the preset working time of 14min corresponding to 72RH from the storage unit, and the controller controls the sterilization device to work for 14min.

[0141] In other embodiments, such as Figure 13 As shown, after step S103, the control method may further include the following steps:

[0142] S301. Obtain the first gas flow rate through the flow detection device. The first gas flow rate is the gas flow rate from the circulation pipe into the inner liner.

[0143] The first gas flow rate is the total gas flow rate over a period of time, which is also the total gas flow rate after sterilization by the sterilization device.

[0144] S302. If the flow rate of the first gas is greater than or equal to the preset flow rate threshold, control the sterilization device to stop working.

[0145] Similarly, the preset flow rate threshold can be a value pre-set by the storage program or a value set by the user, which will not be elaborated further in this application. For example, the preset flow rate threshold can be 8 cubic meters, 10 cubic meters, or 12 cubic meters, etc., which is not limited in this application.

[0146] Similarly, when the controller periodically acquires the humidity in the inner tank, the humidity value acquired may be much higher than the second humidity threshold. In this case, there are more bacteria in the inner tank. To ensure the sterilization effect of the dishwasher, in some embodiments, the controller's storage unit also stores a table corresponding to humidity values ​​and preset flow thresholds. For example, this table corresponding to humidity values ​​and preset flow thresholds can be shown in Table 2 below.

[0147] Table 2

[0148] Humidity value Preset traffic threshold 70RH <![CDATA[8m 3 ]]> 71RH <![CDATA[9m 3 ]]> 72RH <![CDATA[10m 3 ]]> 73RH <![CDATA[11m 3 ]]> 74RH <![CDATA[12m 3 ]]> … …

[0149] For example, when the controller obtains a humidity value of 72% RH, the controller retrieves the preset flow threshold of 10m³ corresponding to 72% RH from the storage unit. 3 Then, when the controller detects a first gas flow rate greater than or equal to 10 m³ / h via the flow detection device, 3 When this happens, the controller stops the sterilization device from working.

[0150] In some embodiments, after step S201 or step S302, such as Figure 14 As shown, the control method may further include the following steps:

[0151] S401. After the controller stops the sterilization device, if the current time has not exceeded the preset storage time, the controller restarts the hot air system until the humidity value in the inner tank is less than or equal to the first humidity threshold.

[0152] The preset storage time can be a user-defined storage time; for example, a storage time set by the user through the control panel or voice interaction with the dishwasher's audio system. Alternatively, the preset storage time can be an automatic storage time set by the dishwasher's storage program after the user starts the dishwasher.

[0153] That is, after the sterilization device stops working, if the storage time has not yet arrived, S101 will continue to be executed, followed by S102 and S103, and then S201 or S301 and S302 will be executed to complete the cycle.

[0154] S402. If the current time reaches the storage time point, the storage procedure will end.

[0155] In other words, if the current time point reaches the storage time point, the dishwasher will end the storage program to avoid the dishwasher continuing to run the storage program while the user does not use the tableware for a long time, resulting in high power consumption and unnecessary energy waste.

[0156] It is understandable that when a dishwasher performs a washing program, it is usually necessary to heat the washing water in the inner drum. In order to reduce the cost of the dishwasher, in some embodiments, the hot air system can be a heater, which can be a wet and dry heater. The wet and dry heater can be set at the bottom of the inner drum. The wet and dry heater can heat the washing water and also heat the gas in the inner drum.

[0157] In some embodiments, such as Figure 15 As shown, before executing step S101, the control method of the dishwasher controller may further include:

[0158] S501. During the washing program, the controller controls the dry and wet dual-use heater to start working until the washing water in the inner tank reaches the preset temperature, and then controls the dry and wet dual-use heater to stop working.

[0159] In this way, the dual-purpose dry and wet heater can heat the washing water to improve the cleanliness of the wash, and also heat the air inside the drum to reduce humidity and prevent bacteria from multiplying excessively. Achieving two functions with a single structural component reduces the cost of the dishwasher while maintaining its functionality.

[0160] This application embodiment can divide the controller into functional modules according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. Optionally, the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division; other division methods may be used in actual implementation.

[0161] This application also provides a hardware structure diagram of a controller, such as... Figure 16 As shown, the controller 60 includes a processor 601, and optionally, a memory 602 and a communication interface 603 connected to the processor 601. The processor 601, memory 602, and communication interface 603 are connected via a bus 604.

[0162] Processor 601 may be a central processing unit (CPU), a general-purpose processor, a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a programmable logic device (PLD), or any combination thereof. Processor 601 may also be any other device with processing capabilities, such as a circuit, device, or software module. Processor 601 may also include multiple CPUs, and processor 601 may be a single-core processor or a multi-core processor. Here, "processor" can refer to one or more devices, circuits, or processing cores used to process data (e.g., computer program instructions).

[0163] The memory 602 may be a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device capable of storing static information and instructions, random access memory (RAM) or other type of dynamic storage device capable of storing information and instructions, or it may be an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), magnetic disk storage media or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and accessible by a computer. This application embodiment does not impose any limitations on this. The memory 602 may exist independently or may be integrated with the processor 601. The memory 602 may contain computer program code. The processor 601 is used to execute the computer program code stored in the memory 602, thereby implementing the cooling system control method provided in this application embodiment.

[0164] The communication interface 603 can be used to communicate with other devices or communication networks (such as Ethernet, radio access network (RAN), wireless local area network (WLAN), etc.). The communication interface 603 can be a module, circuit, transceiver, or any device capable of enabling communication.

[0165] Bus 604 can be a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus or an Extended Industry Standard Architecture (EISA) bus, etc. Bus 604 can be divided into address bus, data bus, control bus, etc. For ease of representation, Figure 16 The bus is represented by a single thick line, but this does not mean that there is only one bus or one type of bus.

[0166] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium including computer-executable instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the control method for the cooling system provided in the above embodiments.

[0167] This invention also provides a computer program product that can be directly loaded into a memory and contains software code. After being loaded and executed by a computer, the computer program product can implement the cooling system control method provided in the above embodiments.

[0168] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in one or more of the examples above, the functions described in this invention can be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, these functions can be stored in a computer-readable medium or transmitted as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media include computer storage media and communication media, wherein communication media include any medium that facilitates the transfer of a computer program from one place to another. Storage media can be any available medium accessible to a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0169] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, only the division of the above functional modules is used as an example. In actual applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above.

[0170] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of modules or units is only a logical functional division, and other division methods may exist in actual implementation. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the shown or discussed mutual couplings, direct couplings, or communication connections may be through some interfaces; indirect couplings or communication connections between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms. Units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate; components shown as units may be one physical unit or multiple physical units, i.e., they may be located in one place or distributed in multiple different places. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0171] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this invention can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit. If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the embodiments of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a device (which may be a microcontroller, chip, etc.) or processor to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this invention. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0172] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A dishwasher, comprising a housing, a sterilization device, and an inner tub disposed within the housing, characterized in that, The inner liner is provided with an air inlet and an air outlet; The dishwasher also includes: A circulation pipe, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the air inlet and the air outlet; the circulation pipe includes: a first circulation pipe and a second circulation pipe, one end of the first circulation pipe and the second circulation pipe are both connected to the air inlet, and the other end of the first circulation pipe and the second circulation pipe are connected to the air outlet; The sterilization device is installed inside the circulation pipe for sterilizing the gas passing through the circulation pipe; the sterilization device includes: a first ion generator and a second ion generator, both of which are installed in the circulation pipe. The first ion generator is installed in the first circulation pipe for sterilizing the gas passing through the first circulation pipe, and the second ion generator is installed in the second circulation pipe for sterilizing the gas passing through the second circulation pipe. A hot air system is used to regulate the humidity level inside the inner liner; A humidity sensor is used to detect the humidity level inside the inner liner; The controller is configured as follows: When the storage procedure is started, the hot air system is controlled to start working until the humidity value in the inner tank is less than or equal to the first humidity threshold. After the hot air system stops working, it is detected whether the humidity value in the inner tank is greater than a second humidity threshold, and the second humidity threshold is greater than the first humidity threshold. After detecting that the humidity value in the inner liner is greater than the second humidity threshold, the sterilization device is controlled to start working; A flow detection device is installed in the circulation pipe to detect and calculate the flow rate of gas flowing from the circulation pipe into the inner liner.

2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: When the sterilization device reaches the preset working time, the sterilization device is controlled to stop working.

3. The dishwasher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: The first gas flow rate is obtained through the flow detection device, and the first gas flow rate is the gas flow rate from the circulation pipe into the inner liner; If the first gas flow rate is greater than or equal to a preset flow rate threshold, the sterilization device is controlled to stop working.

4. The dishwasher according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: After the controller stops the sterilization device, if the current time has not exceeded the preset storage time, the controller will control the hot air system to work again until the humidity value in the inner liner is less than or equal to the first humidity threshold.

5. The dishwasher according to claim 4, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: If the current time reaches the storage time point, the storage procedure will end.

6. The dishwasher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first ion generator includes: a first power supply, a first component, and a second component; The first component includes: The first positive electrode is connected to the positive terminal of the first power supply; The first ground electrode is grounded. A first insulator is disposed between the first positive electrode and the first ground electrode; The second component includes: The second positive electrode is connected to the positive terminal of the first power supply; The second ground electrode is grounded; A second insulator is disposed between the second positive electrode and the second ground electrode; There is a gap between the first ground electrode and the second ground electrode, forming a channel through which the gas in the circulation pipe passes.

7. The dishwasher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second ion generator includes: Second power source; The chamber has an opening and an air outlet, the air outlet being connected to a circulation pipe; A third insulator is disposed at the opening of the chamber. An air inlet is provided on the third insulator, which is connected to the circulation pipe. An air outlet channel is formed between the air inlet and the air outlet. The third positive electrode is located in the cavity and connected to the positive terminal of the second power supply, and is disposed on one side of the air outlet channel; The first negative electrode is located in the chamber and connected to the negative terminal of the second power supply. It is disposed on the other side of the air outlet channel and is disposed opposite to the third positive electrode.

8. A method for controlling a dishwasher, characterized in that, Applied to any one of claims 1-7, the method comprises: When the storage procedure begins, the hot air system starts working until the humidity value in the inner tank is less than or equal to the first humidity threshold. After the hot air system stops working, it is detected whether the humidity value in the inner tank is greater than a second humidity threshold, and the second humidity threshold is greater than the first humidity threshold. After detecting that the humidity value in the inner liner is greater than the second humidity threshold, the sterilization device is controlled to start working.

9. The control method for a dishwasher according to claim 8, characterized in that, The control method further includes: When the sterilization device reaches the preset working time, the sterilization device is controlled to stop working; Alternatively, a first gas flow rate can be obtained through a flow detection device, where the first gas flow rate is the gas flow rate from the circulation pipe into the inner liner; if the first gas flow rate is greater than or equal to a preset flow rate threshold, the sterilization device is controlled to stop working.

10. The control method for a dishwasher according to claim 9, characterized in that, The control method further includes: After the sterilization device stops working, if the current time has not exceeded the preset storage time, the hot air system is controlled to work again until the humidity value in the inner liner is less than or equal to the first humidity threshold.

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