Laundry treating apparatus and control method thereof, washing machine and control method thereof

Abstract

This invention provides a clothing handling device and its control method, as well as a washing machine and its control method. The control method for the clothing handling device includes the following steps: detecting information about the clothing stored in the clothing handling device; establishing a communication connection between the clothing handling device and the washing machine; and executing an information sending step, which includes sending clothing information to the washing machine or generating and sending a washing program instruction to the washing machine based on the detected clothing information. This invention uses the clothing handling device as a laundry basket, offering advantages in breathability and drying. The detected clothing information can be used to determine whether washing conditions have been met, enabling the clothing handling device to remind users to wash clothes promptly and preventing users from forgetting to do so, thus avoiding situations where dirty clothes remain in the clothing handling device for too long. It can also serve as the basis for setting washing programs, eliminating the need for the washing machine to re-detect the clothes and for the user to set them, making the product more intelligent and automated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of clothing handling devices, and more specifically, to a control method for a clothing handling device, a clothing handling device, a control method for a washing machine, and a washing machine. Background Technology

[0002] In modern life, washing machines, dryers, irons, garment care cabinets, and folding machines have become essential household appliances. The functions of each device greatly help users wash and care for clothes, freeing up their hands and saving time on washing and drying. However, in actual use, after one device finishes processing the clothes, the user needs to manually control the type of clothes to be processed by the subsequent clothing processing device, which wastes time, energy, and physical strength, and the process is tedious and troublesome.

[0003] Meanwhile, laundry baskets, used to store clothes that need washing, are now increasingly used by families. Using a laundry basket prevents the room from becoming cluttered due to dirty laundry. Typically, laundry baskets have a single function and do not have a weighing function. To ensure timely washing, some laundry baskets are equipped with weighing or other accessories to remind the user to start washing when a certain weight is reached. This makes laundry baskets more expensive.

[0004] Some users use washing machines as "dirty laundry baskets," but due to their special structure and functional characteristics, the inside of washing machines is relatively humid. If clothes are put in them for a certain period of time, bacteria will grow and produce odors.

[0005] Therefore, how to coordinate the operation of at least two devices to facilitate users' storage and washing of clothes has become an urgent problem to be solved.

[0006] In view of this, the present invention is proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To address the aforementioned technical problems, the present invention aims to provide a control method for a clothing handling device, a clothing handling device, a control method for a washing machine, and a washing machine. By using the clothing handling device as a laundry basket, the device utilizes its own detection elements to detect clothing information and sends this information to the washing machine. This solves the problems of difficulty in storing clothes and the need for multiple user settings in the prior art, effectively coordinating the clothing handling device and the washing machine, and avoiding the inconvenience of manual settings by the user.

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the basic concept of the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0009] This invention provides a control method for a garment handling device, comprising the following steps:

[0010] Detect information about the clothing stored in the clothing processing device;

[0011] Establish a communication connection between the clothing handling device and the washing machine;

[0012] The process of sending information includes sending clothing information to the washing machine or generating and sending a washing program instruction to the washing machine based on the detected clothing information.

[0013] The clothing information includes at least one or more of the following: weight, material, type, volume, stains, storage time, humidity, and odor value.

[0014] The above technical solution further includes the following step before performing the information sending step:

[0015] Determine whether the clothing information meets the preset washing conditions; if so, execute the information sending step.

[0016] The preset washing conditions include any one or more combinations of the following: the weight of the clothes reaches a preset weight, the volume of the clothes reaches a preset volume, the storage time of the clothes reaches a preset time, the humidity of the clothes reaches a preset humidity, and the odor value of the clothes reaches a preset odor value.

[0017] In the above technical solution, if the clothing information does not meet the preset washing conditions, it is determined whether an information request has been received from the washing machine. If so, the information sending step is executed.

[0018] In any of the above technical solutions, the step of sending information is performed before the following:

[0019] Get the current state of the washing machine;

[0020] Determine whether the washing machine is currently in a standby state;

[0021] If yes, then execute the information sending step; otherwise, store the clothing information or washing program instructions, or establish a communication connection between the clothing handling device and the terminal, and send the clothing information or washing program instructions to the terminal so that the clothing information or washing program instructions can be sent to the washing machine via the terminal.

[0022] Preferably, after storing clothing information or washing program instructions, the method further includes:

[0023] Determine if a request for information has been received from the washing machine. If so, send the stored clothing information or washing program instructions to the washing machine.

[0024] The above technical solutions also include:

[0025] Establish a communication connection between the garment handling device and the clothes drying machine and / or folding machine;

[0026] The information sending step further includes sending clothing information to a clothes drying rack and / or clothes folding machine connected in communication with it, so that the clothes drying rack and / or clothes folding machine generates control commands based on the clothing information; and / or

[0027] Establish a communication connection between the garment processing device and the terminal;

[0028] The information sending step further includes sending clothing information or washing program instructions to the terminal, so that the clothing information or washing program instructions can be sent to the washing machine via the terminal; and / or

[0029] Receive washing time information from the washing machine;

[0030] The garment handling unit generates a drying program / garment care program based on garment information and washing time information;

[0031] Perform the drying / clothes care program.

[0032] The present invention also provides a garment processing device, comprising:

[0033] The garment handling device includes a detection module and a first communication module. The detection module detects information about the garments stored in the garment handling device and sends the detected garment information to the first communication module. The first communication module establishes a communication connection with the washing machine, receives the garment information from the detection module, and sends the garment information to the washing machine; or

[0034] The garment handling device includes a detection module, a processing module, and a first communication module. The detection module is used to detect information about the garments stored in the garment handling device and send the detected garment information to the processing module. The processing module generates washing program instructions based on the garment information and sends the washing program instructions to the first communication module. The first communication module is used to establish a communication connection with the washing machine and receives the washing program instructions and sends the washing program instructions to the washing machine.

[0035] The present invention also provides a control method for a washing machine, comprising the following steps:

[0036] Establish a communication connection between the washing machine and the garment handling unit;

[0037] Receive information, the received information including receiving clothing information from the clothing handling device and generating and executing a washing program based on the clothing information, or receiving a washing program instruction generated by the clothing handling device and executing the washing program in the received washing program instruction;

[0038] The clothing information includes at least one or more of the following: weight, material, type, volume, stains, storage time, humidity, and odor value.

[0039] The above technical solution also includes the following step before receiving information:

[0040] Receive washing instructions;

[0041] Generate an information request based on the washing instruction and send the information request to the garment handling device; and / or

[0042] The control method for the washing machine also includes:

[0043] Establish communication connections between the washing machine and the clothes dryer and / or folding machine;

[0044] The received clothing information or washing program instructions are sent to the clothes drying rack and / or folding machine that are connected to it.

[0045] The present invention further provides a washing machine, which includes a control module and a second communication module. The second communication module is used to establish a communication connection with a clothing handling device. The second communication module receives clothing information from the clothing handling device, and the control module generates and executes a washing program based on the clothing information. Alternatively, the second communication module receives a washing program instruction generated by the clothing handling device, and the control module executes the washing program in the washing program instruction.

[0046] The above technical solution also includes:

[0047] The washing instruction input module is connected to the control module. The washing instruction input module is used to input washing instructions. The control module generates an information request based on the input washing instructions. The second communication module sends the information request to the clothing processing device.

[0048] This invention designs a clothing processing device, such as a dryer or garment care machine, as a "laundry basket." The dryer or garment care machine, as a device for drying clothes, has the advantages of breathability and dryness. Compared to the humid environment of a washing machine, it is more conducive to storing dirty clothes, preventing bacteria growth and odors from developing over time. Furthermore, it utilizes existing household equipment for storing dirty clothes, eliminating the need for a separate laundry basket, making it more economical and practical. The clothing processing device can also utilize its own detection module to detect dirty clothes and link with the washing machine, achieving user convenience.

[0049] The information detected by the garment handling device can be used to determine whether the conditions for washing have been met, enabling the device to remind users to wash clothes in a timely manner and preventing dirty clothes from remaining in the device for too long due to user forgetfulness, thus improving the user experience. It can also serve as the basis for setting washing programs, allowing the washing machine or garment handling device to generate appropriate washing programs based on the detected garment information, improving washing results. At the same time, it eliminates the need for the washing machine to re-detect the garments and for users to manually set them, making the product more intelligent and automated.

[0050] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0051] The accompanying drawings, as part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of the invention are used to explain the invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative effort. In the drawings:

[0052] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of a clothing processing device in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a clothes dryer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 4 This is a perspective structural diagram of a washing machine and a dryer according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 5 This is a front view structural diagram of a washing machine, a dryer, and a folding machine in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 6 This is a perspective structural diagram of a washing machine, a dryer, and a garment care machine according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 7 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating the linkage between various devices in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 8 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating the linkage between various devices in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] 100. Washing machine; 200. Dryer; 300. Clothes folding machine; 400. Garment care machine.

[0061] It should be noted that these accompanying drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0062] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0063] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "vertical", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0064] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0065] The following describes, with reference to illustrations, some embodiments of the present invention, a control method for a clothing processing device, a clothing processing device, a control method for a washing machine 100, and a washing machine 100.

[0066] An embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention provides a control method for a garment handling device, wherein, as Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the clothing treatment device can be any one or both of the dryer 200 and the garment care machine 400. The dryer 200 is a device for drying damp clothes. Clothes processed by the dryer 200 eliminate the need for air drying, making it convenient to use. The garment care machine 400 is a device for caring for clothes. The garment care machine 400 has functions such as drying, deodorizing, sterilizing, fumigating and / or wrinkle removal.

[0067] The control method provided in this embodiment can be applied to both the dryer 200 and the garment care machine 400. Specifically, in order to keep the room clean and tidy, families usually store dirty clothes in one place, such as in a laundry basket. This has the problems of the laundry basket taking up space and too many household appliances. Moreover, the laundry basket usually only serves as a container and has a single function. If some additional functions such as weighing are added to the laundry basket to remind the user to perform the washing operation after certain conditions are met, it will lead to a high cost for the laundry basket and make it difficult to promote.

[0068] Some users also use the washing machine 100 as a "dirty laundry basket". However, due to its special structure and functional characteristics, the washing machine 100 is relatively closed, has poor ventilation, and is relatively humid. If dirty clothes are put in it for a certain period of time, bacteria will grow and produce odors.

[0069] To address the aforementioned issues, this embodiment designs a clothes handling device, exemplified by a dryer 200 or a garment care machine 400, as a "laundry basket." The dryer 200 or garment care machine 400, serving as a clothes drying device, offers advantages in breathability and dryness. Compared to the humid environment of the washing machine 100, it is more conducive to storing dirty clothes, preventing bacteria growth and odors from developing over time. Furthermore, utilizing existing household equipment for storing dirty clothes eliminates the need for a separate laundry basket, making it more economical and practical. Additionally, the clothing handling device's own detection module can detect dirty clothes, linking the device with the washing machine 100 for user convenience.

[0070] like Figure 1 As shown, the control method of the clothing handling device provided in this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0071] S101: Detect information about clothing stored in the clothing processing device.

[0072] As a device for storing dirty clothes, the clothing processing device is used by users to keep their rooms clean and tidy by storing dirty clothes in the device in their daily lives. The device uses its own detection modules (such as weight sensors, humidity sensors, odor sensors, stain sensors, image acquisition elements, timing elements, etc.) to detect information about the clothes. The information about the clothes includes at least one or more of the following: weight, material, type, volume, stains, storage time, humidity, and odor value.

[0073] The detected clothing information can be used to determine whether the washing conditions have been met, enabling the clothing handling device to remind users to wash clothes in time and avoid situations where dirty clothes remain in the clothing handling device for too long due to user forgetfulness, thus improving the user experience. It can also serve as the basis for setting washing programs, allowing the washing machine 100 or the clothing handling device itself to generate appropriate washing programs based on the detected clothing information, improving the washing effect. At the same time, it eliminates the need for the washing machine 100 to re-detect and for users to manually set the program, making the product more intelligent and automated.

[0074] S102: Establish a communication connection between the clothing handling device and the washing machine 100.

[0075] Specifically, in this embodiment, the clothing handling device and the washing machine 100 can establish a communication connection via a wireless network or a wired network, enabling the clothing handling device to transmit information to the washing machine 100, or further enabling the clothing handling device and the washing machine 100 to transmit information to each other. More specifically, in this embodiment, the clothing handling device is provided with a first communication module, and the washing machine 100 is provided with a second communication module. The first communication module and the second communication module establish a communication connection to realize communication between the clothing handling device and the washing machine 100.

[0076] It should be noted that the washing machine 100 in this embodiment can be a washing machine 100 with washing and spin-drying functions, or a washer-dryer combo with washing, spin-drying and drying functions.

[0077] S103: Execute the information sending step, which includes sending clothing information to the washing machine 100 or generating and sending a washing program instruction to the washing machine 100 based on the detected clothing information.

[0078] The washing program instructions may include information such as washing mode, washing duration, amount of laundry detergent, and amount of water.

[0079] In one example, the clothing handling device sends the detected clothing information to the washing machine 100 with which it is connected, so that the washing machine 100 can generate a suitable washing program based on the clothing information. In this way, the washing machine 100 performs the function of analyzing and processing information, while the clothing handling device only needs to perform the function of detection and transmission. This eliminates the process of processing data for the clothing handling device, reduces the working complexity of the clothing handling device, and improves the working efficiency of the product.

[0080] It is worth noting that in this example, the clothing handling device can either send the detected clothing information to the washing machine 100 each time, or it can detect the clothing information and send all the clothing information to the washing machine 100 when the washing conditions are met, so as to reduce the number of communications between the clothing handling device and the washing machine 100 and reduce energy consumption.

[0081] In another example, the garment handling device generates a washing program instruction based on the detected garment information and sends the washing program instruction to the washing machine 100. In this way, the garment handling device performs the function of analyzing and processing information. The garment handling device only needs to send the analyzed and processed washing program instruction to the washing machine 100, so that the washing machine 100 can directly execute the corresponding washing program according to the washing program instruction. This reduces the data transmission pressure on the garment handling device and saves the washing machine 100 from the process of processing data, making the washing machine 100 work more efficiently.

[0082] To better achieve the function of reminding users to do laundry in a timely manner, in some embodiments the control method of the clothing handling device also includes the following steps:

[0083] Determine if the clothing information meets the preset washing conditions; if so, issue a reminder message.

[0084] The reminders include sound reminders, image reminders, and / or text reminders. These reminders serve to promptly remind users to do laundry.

[0085] Furthermore, the control method for the garment handling device also includes the following steps:

[0086] Establish a communication connection between the garment processing device and the terminal;

[0087] Send a reminder message to the terminal.

[0088] By sending timely reminders to users' devices, situations where users fail to receive reminders can be avoided.

[0089] In some embodiments, the method further includes the following steps before performing the message sending step:

[0090] Determine if the clothing information meets the preset washing conditions; if so, proceed with the message sending step.

[0091] In this embodiment, after detecting the clothing information, it first determines whether the preset washing conditions are met. If the conditions are met, it sends all the clothing information to the washing machine 100 or generates a washing program instruction based on all the clothing information and sends the washing program instruction to the washing machine 100. This reduces the number of communications between the clothing handling device and the washing machine 100 and reduces the product's energy consumption.

[0092] The preset washing conditions include any one or more combinations of the following: the weight of the clothes reaches a preset weight, the volume of the clothes reaches a preset volume, the storage time of the clothes reaches a preset time, the humidity of the clothes reaches a preset humidity, and the odor value of the clothes reaches a preset odor value. Of course, those skilled in the art can also set other conditions according to specific usage needs.

[0093] It should be noted that the preset weight, preset volume, preset duration, preset humidity, and preset odor value mentioned above can be set by the manufacturer or by the user according to their needs. These values ​​can be arbitrary, and no specific values ​​are limited here.

[0094] Furthermore, if the clothing information does not meet the preset washing conditions, it is determined whether an information request has been received from the washing machine 100. If so, the information sending step is executed.

[0095] Even if the clothes are not yet ready for washing, the user can start the washing machine 100 if they need to wash them. After the washing machine 100 is started, it can send an information request to the clothes handling device to request the clothes handling device to send the detected clothes information or the washing program instructions it generates to the washing machine 100. After receiving the information request, the clothes handling device responds by sending the clothes information or washing program instructions to the washing machine 100.

[0096] That is, the control method of the clothing processing device provided in this embodiment can trigger the clothing processing device to send clothing information or washing program instructions in at least two ways: one is when the clothing information meets the preset washing conditions, and the other is when the information request of the washing machine 100 is received. The two methods do not conflict, and either one can trigger the clothing processing device to send clothing information or washing program instructions.

[0097] In receiving the information request from the washing machine 100, the control method for the clothes handling device includes the following steps in more detail:

[0098] Receive information requests from washing machine 100;

[0099] In response to an information request from the washing machine 100, the washing machine 100 may send clothing information to the washing machine 100 or generate and send washing program instructions to the washing machine 100 based on the detected clothing information.

[0100] Understandably, if the clothing information meets the preset washing conditions, but no reduction in clothing is detected in the clothing handling device, that is, although the preset washing conditions are met, but the user has not started washing, the clothing handling device can continue to detect until the user starts washing, and then send all clothing information to the washing machine 100 or generate a washing program instruction based on all clothing information.

[0101] In some embodiments, the method further includes the following steps before performing the message sending step:

[0102] Get the current state of washing machine 100;

[0103] Determine whether the current state of washing machine 100 is a standby state;

[0104] If yes, then execute the information sending step; otherwise, store the clothing information or washing program instructions, or establish a communication connection between the clothing handling device and the terminal, and send the clothing information or washing program instructions to the terminal, so that the clothing information or washing program instructions can be sent to the washing machine 100 via the terminal.

[0105] Before sending clothing information or washing program instructions to the washing machine 100, the current state of the washing machine 100 is obtained to determine whether the washing machine 100 is in a standby state. For example, if the washing machine 100 is currently powered on but not working, it indicates that the washing machine 100 is in a standby state, and the clothing information or washing program instructions can be sent to the washing machine 100. If the power to the washing machine 100 is not connected or the power is connected but the washing machine 100 is in a working state, it indicates that the washing machine 100 is not in a standby state. In this case, the clothing information or washing program instructions cannot be sent to the washing machine 100 or sending them would interfere with the operation of the washing machine 100. In this case, the clothing information or washing program instructions are stored or sent to the terminal so that the clothing information or washing program instructions can be sent to the washing machine 100 via the terminal.

[0106] Furthermore, after storing clothing information or washing program instructions, it also includes:

[0107] Determine whether an information request has been received from the washing machine 100. If so, send the stored clothing information or washing program instructions to the washing machine 100.

[0108] The system enables the clothing handling device to promptly send clothing information to the washing machine 100 after the washing machine 100 is able to perform the washing operation.

[0109] Understandably, when a household also has appliances such as a clothes dryer and a clothes folding machine 300, in order to further enhance the interconnectivity of appliances such as the washing machine 100, dryer 200 and / or garment care machine 400, clothes dryer, and clothes folding machine 300, a system can be set up with the garment processing device (such as the dryer 200 or garment care machine 400) as the center, so that the washing machine 100, clothes dryer, and clothes folding machine 300 can communicate and connect with the garment processing device, enabling the garment processing device to transmit information with each appliance.

[0110] The following is a detailed description of the control methods for the garment handling device and different equipment. Specific Implementation Example 1

[0112] The control method for the garment handling device also includes the following steps:

[0113] Establish a communication connection between the clothing handling device and the clothes drying machine;

[0114] The information sending step also includes sending clothing information to a clothes drying rack with which it is connected, so that the clothes drying rack generates control commands based on the clothing information.

[0115] This allows the clothing handling device to send the information it detects to the clothes drying machine, so that the clothes drying machine can generate its own control commands based on the clothing information.

[0116] Furthermore, the sending of clothing information to the clothes drying rack with which it is communicatively connected specifically includes:

[0117] Receive washing time information from washing machine 100;

[0118] The information sending step also includes updating the washing time information into the clothing information to form new clothing information, and sending the new clothing information to the clothes drying machine.

[0119] In this way, the clothes drying rack can determine the approximate drying time based on the washing time information, and raise or lower the drying rack to the appropriate position in advance according to the drying time, thus improving the user experience. Specific Implementation Example 2

[0121] The control method for the garment handling device also includes the following steps:

[0122] Establish a communication connection between the garment handling device and the folding machine 300;

[0123] The information sending step also includes sending clothing information to the folding machine 300 with which it is connected for communication, so that the folding machine 300 generates control instructions based on the clothing information.

[0124] This enables the garment handling device to send the detected information to the folding machine 300, so that the folding machine 300 can generate its own control commands based on the garment information. Specific Implementation Example 3

[0126] The control method for the garment handling device also includes the following steps:

[0127] Establish a communication connection between the garment processing device and the terminal;

[0128] The information sending step also includes sending clothing information or washing program instructions to the terminal, so that the clothing information or washing program instructions can be sent to the washing machine 100 via the terminal.

[0129] The terminals mentioned include mobile terminals such as mobile phones and tablets, and can also be computer terminal devices, which will not be listed here.

[0130] This allows the clothing handling device to send the detected information to the terminal, which then communicates with the washing machine 100 to send clothing information or washing program instructions to the washing machine 100. This prevents the clothing handling device from missing clothing information from the washing machine 100 when the washing machine 100 is not in a standby state. At the same time, by relaying clothing information through the terminal, the device can remind the user without requiring the clothing handling device to store the clothing information, thus reducing the pressure on the clothing handling device to store data.

[0131] Of course, those skilled in the art can also set up a terminal to communicate with devices such as clothes drying racks and folding machines 300, and send clothing information to the connected devices such as clothes drying racks and folding machines 300 through the terminal.

[0132] It is worth noting that the above specific embodiments can be implemented independently or simultaneously, and there is no conflict between them.

[0133] In some embodiments, the control method of the garment handling device further includes the following steps:

[0134] Receive washing time information from washing machine 100;

[0135] The garment handling unit generates a drying program / garment care program based on garment information and washing time information;

[0136] Perform the drying / clothes care program.

[0137] In this embodiment, the garment handling device receives the washing time information from the washing machine 100, thereby determining the approximate end time of the wash based on the washing time information. The garment handling device generates a drying program / garment care program based on the garment information and the washing time information (when the garment handling device is a dryer 200, it generates a drying program; when the garment handling device is a garment care machine 400, it generates a garment care program). The garment handling device can prepare in advance according to the drying program / garment care program, thereby improving the working efficiency of the product.

[0138] A second aspect of the present invention provides a garment processing apparatus adapted to perform the control method of the garment processing apparatus described in any of the above embodiments.

[0139] In one specific embodiment, the clothing processing device includes a detection module and a first communication module. The detection module is used to detect information of the clothing stored in the clothing processing device and send the detected clothing information to the first communication module. The first communication module is used to establish a communication connection with the washing machine 100. The first communication module receives the clothing information from the detection module and sends the clothing information to the washing machine 100.

[0140] In another specific embodiment, the clothing handling device includes a detection module, a processing module, and a first communication module. The detection module is used to detect information about the clothing stored in the clothing handling device and send the detected clothing information to the processing module. The processing module generates a washing program instruction based on the clothing information and sends the washing program instruction to the first communication module. The first communication module is used to establish a communication connection with the washing machine 100. The first communication module receives the washing program instruction and sends the washing program instruction to the washing machine 100.

[0141] Regarding the detection module, specifically, the detection module includes any one or more of the following:

[0142] The detection module includes a weight sensor for detecting weight; a humidity sensor for detecting humidity; an odor sensor for detecting odors; a stain sensor for detecting stains; an image acquisition element for recognizing images; an infrared element for acquiring infrared images; a timing element for acquiring storage duration, etc., and so on, which will not be listed here one by one.

[0143] The beneficial effects of the two specific embodiments described above can be referred to the beneficial effects of the first aspect embodiment described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0144] Furthermore, the clothing processing device in this embodiment also includes an information transmission instruction input module, which is connected to the first communication module and is used to send an information transmission instruction to the first communication module, so that the first communication module sends clothing information or washing program instructions to the washing machine 100.

[0145] For example, the information transmission command input module is a button set on the control panel of the clothing processing device. The user controls the clothing processing device to transmit information to the washing machine by triggering the information transmission command input module.

[0146] It should be noted that the information transmission command input module is not limited by whether the clothing information meets the preset washing conditions. As long as the user triggers the information transmission command input module, the clothing handling device can send clothing information or washing program commands to the washing machine 100.

[0147] Furthermore, the information transmission instruction input module of this embodiment provides a new method in addition to the two methods of triggering the clothing processing device to send clothing information or washing program instructions described in the foregoing embodiments. Moreover, the three methods do not conflict, and any one of them can trigger the clothing processing device to send clothing information or washing program instructions.

[0148] The third aspect of the present invention provides a control method for a washing machine 100, which is interactive with the control method for a clothing handling device provided in the first aspect of the present invention.

[0149] The control method for washing machine 100 includes the following steps:

[0150] S201: Establish a communication connection between the washing machine 100 and the clothes handling device;

[0151] S202: Receive information, which includes receiving clothing information from the clothing handling device and generating and executing a washing program based on the clothing information, or receiving a washing program instruction generated by the clothing handling device and executing the washing program in the received washing program instruction.

[0152] Clothing information should include at least one or more of the following: weight, material, type, volume, stains, storage time, humidity, and odor value.

[0153] In this embodiment, the washing machine 100 receives clothing information and / or washing program instructions from the clothing handling device, thus eliminating the need for the washing machine 100 to perform another detection process and for the user to manually set the settings. This makes the product more intelligent and automated, saves the detection time of the washing machine 100, and makes the washing machine 100 work more efficiently.

[0154] In some embodiments, to address situations where the clothing information does not meet preset washing conditions but the user needs to wash it, the system further includes the following steps before receiving the information:

[0155] Receive washing instructions;

[0156] An information request is generated based on the washing instructions and sent to the garment handling device.

[0157] In this embodiment, the washing machine 100 receives a washing instruction triggered by the user, generates an information request based on the washing instruction, and sends it to the clothing processing device. After receiving the information request, the clothing processing device sends clothing information or washing program instructions to the washing machine 100.

[0158] More specifically, the washing machine 100 includes a washing command input module. After the user triggers the washing command input module, the washing machine 100 can respond to the washing command. Furthermore, the washing command input module is a button set on the control panel of the washing machine 100. This button can be a button with an independent function, or the washing command input module can be integrated into the start button of the washing machine 100. When the user triggers the start button, the washing machine 100 can respond to the washing command.

[0159] Understandably, when a household also has appliances such as a clothes dryer and a clothes folding machine 300, in order to further enhance the interconnectivity of the washing machine 100, dryer 200 and / or garment care machine 400, clothes dryer, clothes folding machine 300, etc., a communication connection can be set up between the washing machine 100 and the clothes dryer, clothes folding machine 300, etc., so that the washing machine 100 can transmit information with each device.

[0160] The following is a detailed description of the control methods for the washing machine 100 and different devices. Specific Implementation Example 1

[0162] The control methods for washing machine 100 also include:

[0163] Establish a communication connection between the washing machine 100 and the clothes drying rack;

[0164] The received clothing information or washing program instructions are sent to the clothes drying machine that is connected to it.

[0165] This allows the washing machine 100 to send clothing information or washing program instructions to the clothes drying machine, so that the clothes drying machine can generate its own control instructions based on the clothing information or washing program instructions. Specific Implementation Example 2

[0167] The control methods for washing machine 100 also include:

[0168] Establish a communication connection between the washing machine 100 and the folding machine 300;

[0169] The received clothing information or washing program instructions are sent to the folding machine 300 with which it is connected for communication.

[0170] This enables the washing machine 100 to send clothing information or washing program instructions to the folding machine 300, so that the folding machine 300 can generate its own control instructions based on the clothing information or washing program instructions. Specific Implementation Example 3

[0172] The control method for washing machine 100 also includes the following steps:

[0173] Establish a communication connection between the washing machine 100 and the terminal;

[0174] Sending an information request to the terminal causes the terminal to respond to the information request by sending clothing information or washing program instructions to the washing machine 100.

[0175] The terminals mentioned include mobile terminals such as mobile phones and tablets, and can also be computer terminal devices, which will not be listed here.

[0176] This allows the clothing handling device to send the detected information to the terminal, which then communicates with the washing machine 100 to send clothing information or washing program instructions to the washing machine 100. This prevents the clothing handling device from missing clothing information from the washing machine 100 when the washing machine 100 is not in a standby state. At the same time, by relaying clothing information through the terminal, the device can remind the user without requiring the clothing handling device to store the clothing information, thus reducing the pressure on the clothing handling device to store data.

[0177] It is worth noting that the above specific embodiments can be implemented independently or simultaneously, and there is no conflict between them.

[0178] It should be noted that the difference between the control method of this washing machine 100 and the control method of the aforementioned clothes handling device and different devices lies in the following: Figure 8 As shown, the aforementioned control method for the clothing handling device and different equipment is centered on the clothing handling device. Washing machine 100, clothes dryer, folding machine 300, and other equipment are respectively connected to the clothing handling device via communication. The clothing handling device sends clothing information or washing program instructions to each device. Figure 7 As shown, the control method information transmission between the washing machine 100 and different devices is transmitted step by step. Specifically, it starts with the clothes handling device, which sends the clothes information or washing program instructions to the washing machine 100, and then the washing machine 100 sends the clothes information or washing program instructions to the clothes drying rack and / or folding machine 300.

[0179] An embodiment of the fourth aspect of the present invention provides a washing machine 100, which is adapted to perform the control method of the washing machine 100 described in any of the above embodiments.

[0180] In one specific embodiment, the washing machine 100 includes a control module and a second communication module. The second communication module is used to establish a communication connection with the clothing handling device. The second communication module receives clothing information from the clothing handling device, and the control module generates and executes a washing program based on the clothing information.

[0181] In another specific embodiment, the second communication module receives a washing program instruction generated by the clothing handling device, and the control module executes the washing program in the washing program instruction.

[0182] The beneficial effects of the washing machine 100 provided in the above two specific embodiments can be referred to the beneficial effects of the third aspect embodiment above, and will not be repeated here.

[0183] In some embodiments, in order to address the situation where the clothing information does not meet the preset washing conditions but the user needs to wash the clothes, the washing machine 100 is further provided with a washing instruction input module. The washing instruction input module is connected to the control module and is used to input washing instructions. The control module generates an information request based on the input washing instructions, and the second communication module sends the information request to the clothing processing device.

[0184] After the user triggers the washing command input module, the washing machine 100 can respond to the washing command. Furthermore, the washing command input module is a button set on the control panel of the washing machine 100. This button can be a button with an independent function, or the washing command input module can be integrated into the start button of the washing machine 100. When the user triggers the start button, the washing machine 100 can respond to the washing command.

[0185] A fifth aspect of the present invention provides a household appliance system, which includes a clothes handling device and a washing machine 100 as described in any of the above embodiments. The clothes handling device is adapted to execute the control method of the clothes handling device as described in any of the above embodiments, and the washing machine 100 is adapted to execute the control method of the washing machine 100 as described in any of the above embodiments. Specific Implementation

[0187] In this embodiment, the dryer 200 or the garment care machine 400 serves as a "laundry basket." Clothes to be washed are placed in the dryer 200 or the garment care machine 400, and the dryer 200 or the garment care machine 400 uses its own detection function to determine whether the conditions for washing have been met. As a device for drying clothes, the dryer 200 or the garment care machine 400 provides a more suitable environment for storing dirty clothes compared to the humid environment of the washing machine 100.

[0188] The dryer 200 or garment care machine 400 have built-in detection functions including weighing, image recognition, and infrared devices. Weighing can be achieved using a motor or load cell; image recognition can help identify the amount or material of the clothes; and the infrared sensor can detect the dryness or moisture content of the clothes. One or more of these methods can be used in combination to determine whether the washing requirements have been met. Alternatively, a timer can start after the first item is placed in, and determine whether to wash after a certain period. In automatic mode, the washing decision is based on the amount of laundry or the storage time, unless the user intervenes beforehand.

[0189] After determining that washing is required, the dryer 200 or the garment care machine 400 sends the detected information about the clothes to be washed to the connected washing machine 100 to complete the setting of the washing program for the clothes.

[0190] The following is a detailed description using the 200 model dryer as an example.

[0191] One specific implementation method

[0192] like Figure 7 As shown, the dryer 200 is communicatively connected to the washing machine 100 and can send clothing processing information (which can be the aforementioned clothing information or washing program instructions) to the washing machine 100. Simultaneously, the washing machine 100 can also send its own clothing processing information back to the dryer 200. When using the dryer 200 for drying, the dryer 200 is communicatively connected to the folding machine 300 and can send clothing processing information to the folding machine 300, thus completing the washing-drying-folding information transmission process.

[0193] In the case of using a clothes drying rack, the dryer 200 and the washing machine 100 are communicatively connected, and the dryer 200 can send clothing processing information to the washing machine 100. The washing machine 100 is also communicatively connected to the clothes drying rack, and can send clothing processing information to the clothes drying rack. The clothes drying rack is also communicatively connected to a clothes folding machine 300, and can send clothing processing information to the clothes folding machine 300, thus completing the information transmission process of washing, drying, and folding.

[0194] Another specific implementation

[0195] like Figure 8 As shown, the dryer 200 is communicatively connected to the washing machine 100, the clothes drying rack, and the clothes folding machine 300. The dryer 200 can send clothing processing information to the washing machine 100, the clothes drying rack, and the clothes folding machine 300 respectively. At the same time, the washing machine 100 can also send its own clothing processing information back to the dryer 200.

[0196] The process of triggering the dryer 200 to transmit information includes the following steps:

[0197] S301: Dryer 200 stores clothes and records and stores clothing information;

[0198] S302: Determine whether the clothing information meets the preset washing conditions;

[0199] If so, execute S303: send clothing information to washing machine 100, or send washing program instructions to washing machine 100 to automatically complete the program setting;

[0200] If not, proceed to S304: determine whether an information request has been received. If yes, proceed to S303; otherwise, continue with S301.

[0201] After the dryer 200 sends the clothing information or washing program instructions to the washing machine 100, the washing machine 100 continues to perform the washing operation. After the washing is completed, the dryer 200 continues to perform the drying operation, and the folding machine 300 continues to perform the folding operation, thus completing the linkage of household appliances.

[0202] The control method for the garment care machine 400 can be the same as that for the dryer 200 described above.

[0203] The present invention has the following advantages:

[0204] 1. The dryer 200 or garment care machine 400 can be used as a storage device for laundry, eliminating the need for a laundry basket;

[0205] 2. The dryer 200 or garment care machine 400 can detect the information of the clothes to be washed and send the information to the connected washing machine 100 to automatically complete the washing program setting of the washing machine 100, thus realizing intelligent and automated operation.

[0206] 3. The dryer 200 or garment care machine 400 can send the garment information to the next stage processing device, such as the washing machine 100, and then the washing machine 100 can pass it down level by level, or the dryer 200 or garment care machine 400 can pass it down to the subsequent garment processing devices at the same time, making the information transmission more flexible.

[0207] 4. Information transmission can be initiated by the washing command or by the achievement of user-set washing conditions, making it easier to meet different usage needs and resulting in better product performance.

[0208] 5. The set washing conditions can be the weight, volume, or storage time of the stored clothes. Odor sensors are installed in either the dryer 200 or the garment care machine 400. These sensors detect one or more odor thresholds, promptly alerting the user to prevent clothes from developing unpleasant odors during storage.

[0209] 6. The starting point for the garment care cycle is 200 cycles for the dryer or 400 cycles for the garment care machine.

[0210] 7. The control method of the present invention can complete the storage of clothes to be washed and the detection of clothing information using existing clothing processing equipment. It can be realized on the local end and is not affected by the connection status with the external network.

[0211] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-described technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method of a laundry treating apparatus, characterized by, The garment treatment device is breathable and drying; The control method includes the following steps: Detect information about the clothing stored in the clothing processing device; Establish a communication connection between the clothing handling device and the washing machine; Determine whether the clothing information meets the preset washing conditions. If yes, execute the message sending step. If the clothing information does not meet the preset washing conditions, determine whether a message request has been received from the washing machine. If yes, execute the message sending step. The information sending step includes sending clothing information to the washing machine or generating and sending a washing program instruction to the washing machine based on the detected clothing information; The clothing information includes at least one or more of the following: weight, material, type, volume, stains, storage time, humidity, and odor value; the preset washing conditions include any one or more combinations of the following: clothing weight reaches a preset weight, clothing volume reaches a preset volume, clothing storage time reaches a preset time, clothing humidity reaches a preset humidity, and clothing odor value reaches a preset odor value. If the clothing information meets the preset washing conditions, but no reduction in clothing is detected in the clothing handling device, the clothing handling device continues to detect until the user starts washing, and then sends all clothing information to the washing machine or generates a washing program instruction based on all clothing information. Before sending clothing information or washing program instructions to the washing machine, the clothing handling device first obtains the current status of the washing machine and determines whether the washing machine is in a ready-to-work state. If the washing machine is currently powered on but not working, it indicates that the washing machine is in a standby state, and clothing information or washing program instructions can be sent to the washing machine. If the washing machine is not powered on or is powered on but the washing machine is working, it indicates that the washing machine is not in a standby state. In this case, it is impossible to send clothing information or washing program instructions to the washing machine or sending them would interfere with the washing machine's operation. In this case, a communication connection is established between the clothing handling device and the terminal, and the clothing information or washing program instructions are sent to the terminal, so that the clothing information or washing program instructions can be sent to the washing machine via the terminal. 2.The control method of a laundry treating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: Establish a communication connection between the garment handling device and the clothes drying machine and / or folding machine; The information sending step further includes sending clothing information to a clothes drying rack and / or clothes folding machine connected in communication with it, so that the clothes drying rack and / or clothes folding machine generates control commands based on the clothing information; and / or Receive washing time information from the washing machine; The garment handling device generates a garment care program based on garment information and washing time information; Perform the garment care procedure.

3. The control method for the garment handling device according to claim 2, characterized in that, Sending clothing information to the clothes drying rack with which it is connected includes: Receive washing time information from the washing machine; The washing time information is updated into the clothing information to form new clothing information, and the new clothing information is sent to the clothes drying machine.

4. The control method of the garment handling apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Also includes: If the clothing information is determined to meet the preset washing conditions, a reminder message will be issued.

5. The control method for the garment handling device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The clothing processing device sends the reminder information to the terminal.

6. The control method for the garment handling device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The reminder information includes sound reminder information and / or image reminder information and / or text reminder information.

7. A garment processing device, characterized in that, include: The garment handling device includes a detection module and a first communication module. The detection module detects information about the garments stored in the garment handling device and sends the detected garment information to the first communication module. The first communication module establishes a communication connection with the washing machine, receives the garment information from the detection module, and sends the garment information to the washing machine; or The garment handling device includes a detection module, a processing module, and a first communication module. The detection module is used to detect information about the garments stored in the garment handling device and send the detected garment information to the processing module. The processing module generates washing program instructions based on the garment information and sends the washing program instructions to the first communication module. The first communication module is used to establish a communication connection with the washing machine and receives the washing program instructions and sends the washing program instructions to the washing machine. The garment processing device performs the control method for the garment processing device as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, The detection module includes any one or more combinations of a weight sensor for detecting weight, a humidity sensor for detecting humidity, an odor sensor for detecting odor, a stain sensor for detecting stains, an image acquisition element for recognizing images, an infrared element for acquiring infrared images, and a timing element for acquiring storage duration.

9. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, It also includes an information transmission instruction input module, which is connected to the first communication module and is used to send information transmission instructions to the first communication module, so that the first communication module sends clothing information or washing program instructions to the washing machine.

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