Control method for a washing apparatus

By obtaining the actual environment and initial water temperature, the preset heating time of the washing equipment is corrected, solving the problem of mismatched heating time and improving the user experience.

CN115704145BActive Publication Date: 2025-11-21QINGDAO JIAONAN HAIER WASHING MACHINE CO LTD +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202110887940.7
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2021-08-03
Publication Date
2025-11-21
Estimated Expiration
2041-08-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing washing equipment has a fixed heating time, which cannot adapt to changes in actual initial water temperature and ambient temperature, making it impossible for users to accurately know the heating time and affecting the user experience.

Method used

By acquiring the actual ambient temperature and initial water temperature, the preset heating time is compared and corrected, and the heating time is adjusted according to the actual situation to ensure that the heating time matches the actual needs.

Benefits of technology

Accurate adjustment of heating time avoids sudden changes or prolonged periods of inconsistency in the heating time display, thus improving the user experience of the washing equipment.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of smart home, and particularly provides a control method for a washing device, aiming at solving the problem that the heating time of the existing washing device is fixed and does not match the actual heating time. The control method comprises the following steps: acquiring an actual ambient temperature when a heating program is set in the washing device; acquiring an actual initial water temperature; acquiring a preset initial water temperature; comparing the actual initial water temperature with the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature respectively; and selectively correcting the preset heating time of the washing device according to the comparison result to obtain a corrected heating time, so that the corrected heating time matches the actual heating time of the washing device and matches the heating time displayed by a display device, avoiding the situation that the heating time displayed by the display device jumps or does not change for a long time, so that the user can accurately judge the actual heating time of the washing device, and the use experience of the user is improved.
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Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Washing machines are common household appliances for washing clothes. Based on washing methods, washing machines can be broadly classified into top-loading (pulsator) washing machines and front-loading (drum) washing machines. Taking top-loading washing machines as an example, to meet user needs, they are equipped with a heating program that heats the water before washing to improve the washing effect, or heats the wash water during the rinsing process to scald the clothes, killing bacteria with high temperatures.

[0003] However, in existing technology, the heating time for washing water to different temperatures in washing machines is preset and fixed. For example, heating 30L of water at 20℃ to 40℃ takes 40 minutes, so the program will preset a heating time of 40 minutes. However, during the actual heating process, the actual initial temperature of the washing water may be higher or lower than the preset initial water temperature, i.e., the initial water temperature corresponding to the set heating time. This causes a discrepancy between the actual heating time and the preset heating time, resulting in the heating time displayed on the device jumping or remaining unchanged for a long time. This makes it impossible for users to know the actual heating time, thus affecting the user experience.

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

[0005] To address the aforementioned problems in the prior art, namely the mismatch between the fixed heating time of existing washing equipment and the actual heating time, this invention provides a control method for a washing equipment. This control method includes the following steps: when the washing equipment has a heating program set, acquiring the actual ambient temperature; acquiring the actual initial water temperature; acquiring a preset initial water temperature; comparing the actual initial water temperature with both the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature; and selectively correcting the preset heating time of the washing equipment based on the comparison results to obtain a corrected heating time.

[0006] In the preferred embodiment of the above control method, the step of "selectively correcting the preset heating time of the washing equipment according to the comparison result to obtain the corrected heating time" specifically includes: if the actual initial water temperature is greater than the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature, then calculate the difference between the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature; determine whether the absolute value of the difference is less than or equal to a preset value; and selectively correct the preset heating time according to the determination result to obtain the corrected heating time.

[0007] In the preferred embodiment of the above control method, the step of "selectively correcting the preset heating time according to the judgment result to obtain the corrected heating time" specifically includes: if the absolute value of the difference is greater than the preset value, then it is determined whether the actual ambient temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature; if the actual ambient temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time is corrected according to a first correction coefficient to obtain a first corrected heating time, wherein the first correction coefficient is less than 1 and the first corrected heating time is less than the preset heating time; and / or if the actual ambient temperature is less than the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time is corrected according to a second correction coefficient to obtain a second corrected heating time, wherein the second correction coefficient is greater than 1 and the second corrected heating time is greater than the preset heating time.

[0008] In the preferred embodiment of the above control method, the step of "selectively correcting the preset heating time according to the judgment result to obtain the corrected heating time" further includes: if the absolute value of the difference is less than or equal to the preset value, then the preset heating time is not corrected.

[0009] In the preferred embodiment of the above control method, the step of "selectively correcting the preset heating time of the washing equipment according to the comparison result to obtain a corrected heating time" further includes: if the actual initial water temperature is greater than the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time is corrected according to a third correction coefficient to obtain a third corrected heating time, wherein the third correction coefficient is greater than 1, and the third corrected heating time is greater than the preset heating time; and / or if the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is less than the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time is corrected according to a fourth correction coefficient to obtain a fourth corrected heating time, wherein the fourth correction coefficient is greater than 1, and the fourth corrected heating time is greater than the preset heating time; and / or if the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time is corrected according to a fifth correction coefficient to obtain a fifth corrected heating time, wherein... The fifth correction coefficient is less than 1, the fifth correction heating time is less than the preset heating time; and / or if the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is equal to the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time is not corrected.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the above control method, the preset heating time is the time it takes for the washing equipment to heat the washing water at the preset initial water temperature to the target temperature, the corrected heating time is the time it takes for the washing equipment to heat the washing water at the actual initial water temperature to the target temperature, and the washing water volume corresponding to the preset heating time is equal to the washing water volume corresponding to the corrected heating time; and / or the preset initial water temperature is equal to the preset ambient temperature, wherein the preset ambient temperature is the ambient temperature corresponding to when the preset heating time is set.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the above control method, the control method further includes: during the process of the washing equipment performing a heating operation according to the preset heating time or the modified heating time, obtaining the temperature change of the washing water within a preset time; determining whether the temperature change is less than a preset change; and selectively stopping the washing equipment from operating based on the determination result.

[0012] In the preferred embodiment of the above control method, the step of "selectively stopping the washing equipment according to the judgment result" specifically includes: if the temperature change is less than the preset change, then obtaining the current operating stage of the washing equipment; and selectively stopping the washing equipment according to the operating stage.

[0013] In the preferred embodiment of the above control method, if the washing equipment is in the scalding stage, a prompt message is sent to inform the user that the washing equipment is malfunctioning; an input control command is obtained; it is determined whether the content of the control command is to stop the washing equipment; if the content of the control command is to stop the washing equipment, the washing equipment is stopped; and / or if the content of the control command is to continue the washing equipment, the washing equipment stops performing the heating operation and performs the rinsing operation.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the above control method, the control method further includes: if the temperature change is greater than or equal to the preset change, then the washing equipment continues to perform the heating operation; and / or if the washing equipment is in the washing heating stage, then the washing equipment stops performing the heating operation and performs the washing operation, and sends a prompt message at the same time or after the washing equipment finishes running to notify the user of the heating failure of the washing equipment.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of the control method of the present invention, when the washing machine is set to a heating program, the actual ambient temperature is obtained; the actual initial water temperature is obtained; the preset initial water temperature is obtained; the actual initial water temperature is compared with the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature respectively; and the heating time of the washing machine is selectively adjusted according to the comparison results to obtain a adjusted heating time.

[0016] Compared to existing technologies where washing machines directly execute heating operations according to a preset heating time, this invention selectively corrects the preset heating time of the washing machine based on a comparison of the actual initial water temperature with both the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature. This corrected heating time is achieved by considering not only the relationship between the actual and preset initial water temperatures to accurately determine if the preset heating time is appropriate and requires adjustment, but also the relationship between the actual initial water temperature and the actual ambient temperature to accurately determine if temperature compensation for the ambient temperature is needed during heating. Combining these two considerations allows for a more accurate assessment of whether and how to correct the preset heating time, preventing misjudgments or incorrect corrections. The corrected heating time matches the actual heating time of the washing machine and the heating time displayed on the device, avoiding jumps or prolonged periods of inactivity on the display. This allows users to accurately determine the actual heating time of the washing machine, thereby improving the user experience.

[0017] Furthermore, if the actual initial water temperature is higher than both the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature, it's possible that the washing water added to the tub is hot, and its temperature is higher than the actual ambient temperature. In this case, temperature compensation for the actual ambient temperature is needed during the heating process, thus requiring an extended heating time. Conversely, since the washing water is hot, its temperature is higher than the preset initial water temperature (i.e., higher than the initial temperature of the washing water corresponding to the preset heating time). Therefore, the heating process can reach the target temperature without performing the preset heating time operation, thus requiring a shorter heating time. Consequently, an accurate conclusion cannot be drawn. Therefore, to accurately determine whether to extend, shorten, or not adjust the preset heating time, the difference between the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature is calculated. Based on whether the absolute value of the difference is less than or equal to the preset value, the preset heating time is selectively adjusted to obtain a corrected heating time. This allows for a more accurate determination of whether the preset heating time needs to be corrected and how it should be corrected, avoiding misjudgments or incorrect corrections, and ensuring that the corrected heating time matches the actual heating time of the washing machine.

[0018] Furthermore, if the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the actual ambient temperature and less than the preset initial water temperature, it's possible that in winter, the temperature of the water coming out of the tap is low, lower than the indoor ambient temperature or the ambient temperature inside the washing tub. In this case, there's no need to compensate for the actual ambient temperature during heating, thus eliminating the need to adjust the heating time. However, since the tap water temperature is low and lower than the preset initial water temperature (i.e., lower than the initial temperature of the washing water corresponding to the preset heating time), simply performing the preset heating time is insufficient to heat the washing water to the target temperature. A longer heating time is required. Therefore, the preset heating time is corrected using a fourth correction coefficient, resulting in a fourth corrected heating time. This fourth correction coefficient is greater than 1, making the fourth corrected heating time greater than the preset heating time, extending the heating time. This ensures that the corrected heating time matches the actual heating time of the washing machine, allowing the washing machine to heat the washing water to the target temperature when performing the heating operation according to the fourth corrected heating time, further improving the user experience.

[0019] Furthermore, during the heating operation performed by the washing machine according to the preset heating time or the modified heating time, the temperature change of the washing water within the preset time is obtained, and it is determined whether the temperature change is less than the preset change. Based on the determination result, the washing machine is selectively stopped, thus avoiding continued operation in cases where the washing machine has a heating malfunction and cannot meet the user's needs, and avoiding stopping operation in cases where the washing machine has a heating malfunction but does not significantly affect the user's needs, thereby improving the user experience. Attached Figure Description

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

[0021] Figure 1 This is the main flowchart of the control method of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 2 This is the flow chart of the selective modification of preset heating time control method of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0023] Figure 3 This is the flow chart of the selective modification of preset heating time control method of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0024] Figure 4 This is a complete flowchart of the control method of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 5 This is the flow chart of the control method for selectively stopping the operation of a washing machine according to the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0026] Figure 6 This is the flow chart of the control method for selectively stopping the operation of a washing machine according to the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0027] Figure 7 This is a logic diagram of the control method of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the invention. For example, although the present invention is described in connection with a washing machine, the technical solution of the present invention is not limited thereto, and this control method can obviously also be applied to other washing equipment such as washer-dryer combos; such changes do not depart from the principles and scope of the present invention.

[0029] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, the terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," "fifth," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0030] Based on the technical problems mentioned in the background art, the present invention provides a control method for a washing machine. This method selectively corrects the preset heating time of the washing machine based on comparisons between the actual initial water temperature and both the actual ambient temperature and a preset initial water temperature. In other words, the method considers not only the relationship between the actual and preset initial water temperatures to accurately determine whether the preset heating time is appropriate and needs correction to extend or shorten the heating time, but also the relationship between the actual initial water temperature and the actual ambient temperature to accurately determine whether temperature compensation for the actual ambient temperature is needed during heating. Combining these two considerations allows for a more accurate determination of whether and how to correct the preset heating time, avoiding misjudgments or incorrect corrections. This ensures that the corrected heating time matches the actual heating time of the washing machine and the heating time displayed on the display device, preventing jumps or prolonged periods of inactivity in the displayed heating time. This allows users to accurately determine the actual heating time of the washing machine, thereby improving the user experience.

[0031] First see Figure 1 The control method of the present invention will be described below. Figure 1 This is the main flowchart of the control method of the present invention.

[0032] like Figure 1 As shown, the control method of the present invention includes the following steps:

[0033] S100: When the washing machine is set to a heating program, obtain the actual ambient temperature;

[0034] S200, Obtain the actual initial water temperature;

[0035] S300, Obtain the preset initial water temperature;

[0036] S400: Compare the actual initial water temperature with the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature respectively;

[0037] S500: Based on the comparison results, selectively adjust the preset heating time of the washing machine to obtain the adjusted heating time.

[0038] The preset initial water temperature is equal to the preset ambient temperature. The preset ambient temperature is the ambient temperature corresponding to the preset heating time. The preset initial water temperature is the initial water temperature corresponding to the preset heating time. For example, the preset initial water temperature is 20°C and the preset ambient temperature is 20°C, or the preset initial water temperature is 25°C and the preset ambient temperature is 25°C. Those skilled in the art can flexibly adjust and set the preset initial water temperature and preset ambient temperature according to the requirements set in the program.

[0039] The preset heating time is the time it takes for the washing machine to heat the washing water at a preset initial temperature to the target temperature. The corrected heating time is the time it takes for the washing machine to heat the washing water at the actual initial temperature to the target temperature. The amount of washing water corresponding to the preset heating time is equal to the amount of washing water corresponding to the corrected heating time. In other words, both the preset heating time and the corrected heating time change with the target temperature and the amount of washing water. Each preset heating time and its corresponding corrected heating time have the same amount of washing water and target temperature. For example, the preset heating time is the heating time set by the washing machine to heat 30L of water at 20℃ to 40℃, such as 40 minutes. The corrected heating time is the actual heating time required by the washing machine to heat 30L of water at its actual initial temperature to 40℃. It may be equal to 40 minutes, greater than 40 minutes, or less than 40 minutes. Since the initial temperature of the washing water corresponding to the preset heating time may be different from the actual initial temperature of the washing water, and the ambient temperature corresponding to the preset heating time may also be different from the actual ambient temperature, it is necessary to determine the corrected preset heating time based on the actual initial water temperature, the actual ambient temperature, and the preset initial water temperature to obtain the corrected heating time.

[0040] In step S100, the actual ambient temperature inside the washing tub of the washing machine can be obtained before the washing machine performs the water filling operation, or the actual ambient temperature of the environment where the washing machine is located can be obtained. For example, if the washing machine is placed on a balcony or in the bathroom, the actual ambient temperature of the balcony or bathroom can be obtained.

[0041] Furthermore, the actual ambient temperature is detected by a first temperature sensor installed on the washing machine.

[0042] In step S200, the actual initial water temperature of the washing water in the washing tub can be detected by a second temperature sensor installed inside the washing machine during or after the water filling operation.

[0043] In step S400, after the heating program is set, the set washing water volume and the actual heating temperature are determined. Then, based on the set washing water volume and the actual heating temperature, the preset heating time that matches them is retrieved from the data stored in the washing machine. For example, the washing water volume listed above is 30L, the heating temperature is 40℃, the preset initial water temperature is 20℃, and the corresponding preset heating time is 40min. Further, based on the comparison results between the actual initial water temperature and the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature, the preset heating time of the washing machine is selectively corrected to obtain the corrected heating time.

[0044] It should be noted that the execution order of steps S100 to S300 in the above process is not limited to the order listed above. Step S200 can be executed first, followed by steps S100 and S300, or step S300 can be executed first, followed by steps S100 and S200, or steps S100 to S300 can be executed simultaneously. The present invention does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0045] The following reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The present invention describes a method for selectively modifying a preset heating time. Wherein, Figure 2 This is the flow chart of the selective modification of preset heating time control method of the present invention. Figure 1 ; Figure 3 This is the flow chart of the selective modification of preset heating time control method of the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0046] like Figure 2 As shown, step S500, "selectively adjusting the preset heating time of the washing machine based on the comparison results to obtain the adjusted heating time," specifically includes:

[0047] S511. If the actual initial water temperature is greater than the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature, then calculate the difference between the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature.

[0048] S512. Determine whether the absolute value of the difference is less than or equal to the preset value;

[0049] S513. Based on the judgment result, selectively adjust the preset heating time to obtain the adjusted heating time.

[0050] In step S511, if the actual initial water temperature is greater than both the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature (e.g., the actual ambient temperature is 25℃ and the actual initial water temperature is 30℃), it indicates that the washing water added to the washing tub is hot water, and its temperature is higher than the actual ambient temperature. Therefore, during the heating process, temperature compensation for the actual ambient temperature is required, thus extending the heating time. Conversely, if the preset initial water temperature is 20℃, which is lower than the actual initial water temperature, then during the heating process, heating the 30℃ washing water to the desired temperature (e.g., 40℃) requires a shorter actual heating time than the preset heating time, thus requiring a shorter heating time. Therefore, an accurate correction conclusion cannot be drawn. In order to accurately determine whether to extend, shorten, or not adjust the preset heating time, the difference between the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature is calculated. For example, if the actual ambient temperature is 25℃ and the preset initial water temperature is 20℃, the difference is calculated. If the actual ambient temperature is 0℃ and the preset initial water temperature is 5℃, then the difference between the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature is 20℃, and the difference between the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature is -5℃. If the actual ambient temperature is 26℃ and the preset initial water temperature is 20℃, then the difference between the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature is 6℃. If the actual ambient temperature is 14℃ and the preset initial water temperature is 20℃, then the difference between the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature is -6℃. If the actual ambient temperature is 20℃ and the preset initial water temperature is 20℃, then the difference between the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature is 0℃.

[0051] In steps S512 and S513, as can be seen from the calculation results in step S511, the obtained difference may be zero, positive, or negative, such as a difference of 5℃ or -5℃. In this case, the correction results brought about by the positive or negative difference between the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature may cancel each other out or may not cancel each other out. In order to accurately determine whether to extend, shorten, or not adjust the preset heating time, it is determined whether the absolute value of the difference is less than or equal to the preset value. Based on the judgment result, the preset heating time is selectively corrected to obtain the corrected heating time. This can more accurately determine whether the preset heating time needs to be corrected and how the preset heating time should be corrected, avoiding misjudgment or miscorrection, so that the corrected heating time matches the actual heating time of the washing machine.

[0052] like Figure 3 As shown, step S513, "selectively adjusting the preset heating time according to the judgment result to obtain the adjusted heating time," specifically includes:

[0053] S521. If the absolute value of the difference is less than or equal to the preset value, the preset heating time will not be corrected.

[0054] S522. If the absolute value of the difference is greater than the preset value, then determine whether the actual ambient temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature.

[0055] S523. If the actual ambient temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature, the preset heating time is corrected according to the first correction coefficient to obtain the first corrected heating time.

[0056] Wherein, the first correction coefficient k1 is less than 1, preferably 0.9≤k1<1; the first corrected heating time is less than the preset heating time;

[0057] S524. If the actual ambient temperature is lower than the preset initial water temperature, the preset heating time is corrected according to the second correction coefficient to obtain the second corrected heating time.

[0058] Wherein, the second correction coefficient k2 is greater than 1, preferably 1 < k2 ≤ 1.1; the second correction heating time is greater than the preset heating time.

[0059] In step S521, if the absolute value of the difference is less than or equal to the preset value, for example, if the preset value is 5℃, and the difference calculated in step S511 is 5℃, -5℃, or 0℃, and the absolute values ​​of the above differences are 5℃, 5℃, or 0℃ respectively, all of which are equal to or less than the preset value, then it can be considered that the heating time extended due to temperature compensation for the actual ambient temperature is basically the same as the heating time shortened due to the actual initial water temperature being too high. For example, the heating time extended is 5 minutes, and the heating time shortened is 5 minutes. Alternatively, if the difference between the heating time extended due to temperature compensation for the actual ambient temperature and the heating time shortened due to the actual initial water temperature being too high is small, for example, the heating time extended is 5 minutes, and the heating time shortened is 4.5 minutes, with a difference of 30 seconds, which can basically cancel each other out, then the preset heating time is not corrected, and the washing machine can perform the heating operation according to the preset heating time.

[0060] In step S522, if the absolute value of the difference is greater than the preset value, for example, if the preset value is 5℃, and the difference calculated in step S511 is 6℃ or -6℃, and the absolute values ​​of the above differences are 6℃ or 6℃ respectively, both of which are greater than the preset value, it is possible that the heating time required to extend due to temperature compensation of the actual ambient temperature is significantly longer than the heating time required to shorten due to the actual initial water temperature being too high, and thus the heating time needs to be extended. Alternatively, it is possible that the heating time required to extend due to temperature compensation of the actual ambient temperature is significantly shorter than the heating time required to shorten due to the actual initial water temperature being too high, and thus the heating time needs to be shortened. In order to accurately determine whether to extend or shorten the preset heating time, it is determined whether the actual ambient temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature, and the preset heating time is corrected according to the determination result.

[0061] In step S523, if the actual ambient temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature, for example, the preset initial water temperature is 20℃ and the actual ambient temperature is 26℃, which is greater than the preset initial water temperature, then the extended heating time required to compensate for the actual ambient temperature is significantly shorter than the shortened heating time required due to the higher actual initial water temperature. For example, the extended heating time is 3 minutes and the shortened heating time is 5 minutes. Therefore, the preset heating time needs to be shortened by 2 minutes. Then, the preset heating time is corrected according to the first correction coefficient less than 1 to obtain the first corrected heating time, which is 38 minutes. This makes the first corrected heating time less than the preset heating time, thereby shortening the heating time. The washing machine can then perform the heating operation according to the first corrected heating time.

[0062] In step S524, if the actual ambient temperature is lower than the preset initial water temperature, for example, the preset initial water temperature is 20℃ and the actual ambient temperature is 14℃, which is lower than the preset initial water temperature, then the heating time required to compensate for the actual ambient temperature is significantly longer than the heating time required to shorten due to the higher actual initial water temperature. For example, the heating time that needs to be extended is 5 minutes, and the heating time that needs to be shortened is 3 minutes. Therefore, the preset heating time needs to be extended by 2 minutes. Then, the preset heating time is corrected according to the second correction coefficient greater than 1, resulting in the second corrected heating time, which is 42 minutes. This makes the second corrected heating time greater than the preset heating time, thereby extending the heating time. The washing machine can then perform the heating operation according to the second corrected heating time.

[0063] During the above process, the first and second correction coefficients can be adjusted to shorten or extend the preset heating time as needed to ensure that the corrected heating time matches the actual heating time required by the washing machine as closely as possible. This allows the washing machine to heat the washing water to the target temperature when performing the heating operation according to the first or second corrected heating time, further improving the user experience.

[0064] See again Figure 2 In step S500, the step of "selectively correcting the preset heating time of the washing machine based on the comparison results to obtain the corrected heating time" further includes:

[0065] S514. If the actual initial water temperature is greater than the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time is corrected according to the third correction coefficient to obtain the third corrected heating time.

[0066] Wherein, the third correction coefficient k3 is greater than 1, preferably 1.1 < k3 ≤ 1.2; the third correction heating time is greater than the preset heating time;

[0067] S515. If the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is less than the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time is corrected according to the fourth correction coefficient to obtain the fourth corrected heating time.

[0068] Wherein, the fourth correction coefficient k4 is greater than 1, preferably 1 < k4 ≤ 1.1; the fourth correction heating time is greater than the preset heating time;

[0069] S516. If the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time is corrected according to the fifth correction coefficient to obtain the fifth corrected heating time.

[0070] Wherein, the fifth correction coefficient k5 is less than 1, preferably 0.9≤k5<1; the fifth correction heating time is less than the preset heating time;

[0071] S517. If the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is equal to the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time will not be corrected.

[0072] In step S514, if the actual initial water temperature is higher than the actual ambient temperature but lower than or equal to the preset initial water temperature (e.g., the actual ambient temperature is 15℃ and the actual initial water temperature is 18℃), the water temperature being higher than the actual ambient temperature may be due to winter and the low ambient temperature inside the washing tub. In this case, temperature compensation is needed during the heating process, requiring an extended heating time, for example, by 5 minutes. Conversely, if the preset initial water temperature is 20℃, which is higher than the actual initial water temperature, then heating the 18℃ washing water to the desired temperature (e.g., 40℃) will require a longer actual heating time than the preset heating time, thus necessitating an extended heating time. For example, if the heating time needs to be extended by 2 minutes, then the preset heating time needs to be extended by at least 5 minutes. The preset heating time is then adjusted according to a third correction coefficient greater than 1, resulting in a third corrected heating time of 45 minutes, 46 minutes, or 47 minutes. This third corrected heating time is greater than the preset heating time, thus extending the heating time. The washing machine can then perform the heating operation according to the third corrected heating time.

[0073] In step S515, if the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the actual ambient temperature and less than the preset initial water temperature (e.g., the actual ambient temperature is 20℃ and the actual initial water temperature is 15℃, possibly because the temperature of the water coming out of the tap is lower in winter than the actual ambient temperature), then there is no need to compensate for the actual ambient temperature during the heating process, and therefore no need to adjust the heating time. However, if the preset initial water temperature is 20℃, which is higher than the actual initial water temperature, then the actual heating time required to heat the 15℃ washing water to the heating temperature (e.g., 40℃) is longer than the preset heating time, thus requiring an extension of the heating time. For example, the required extension is 4 minutes. Therefore, the preset heating time needs to be extended by 4 minutes. The preset heating time is then corrected according to a fourth correction coefficient greater than 1, resulting in a fourth corrected heating time of 44 minutes. This fourth corrected heating time is greater than the preset heating time, thus extending the heating time. The washing machine can then perform the heating operation according to the fourth corrected heating time.

[0074] In step S516, if the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the actual ambient temperature and greater than the preset initial water temperature (e.g., the actual ambient temperature is 30℃ and the actual initial water temperature is 25℃), it may be because in summer, the actual ambient temperature is higher, and the temperature of the water coming out of the tap is also higher, but the water temperature is lower than the actual ambient temperature. In this case, there is no need to compensate for the actual ambient temperature during the heating process, and therefore no need to adjust the heating time. However, if the preset initial water temperature is 20℃, which is lower than the actual initial water temperature, then the actual heating time required to heat the 25℃ washing water to the heating temperature (e.g., 40℃) is shorter than the preset heating time. Therefore, the heating time needs to be shortened, for example, by 4 minutes. In summary, the preset heating time needs to be shortened by 4 minutes. The preset heating time is then corrected according to the fifth correction coefficient, which is less than 1, resulting in the fifth corrected heating time, which is 36 minutes. This makes the fifth corrected heating time less than the preset heating time, thus shortening the heating time. The washing machine can then perform the heating operation according to the fifth corrected heating time.

[0075] In step S517, if the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the actual ambient temperature and equal to the preset initial water temperature, for example, if the actual ambient temperature is 20℃, the actual initial water temperature is 20℃, and the preset initial water temperature is 20℃, all three are equal, and the preset ambient temperature is 20℃, that is, the current actual initial water temperature and actual ambient temperature are equal to the preset ambient temperature and preset initial water temperature when the preset heating time is set, then the washing water can be heated to the heating temperature according to the preset heating time, and there is no need to correct the preset heating time. The washing machine can then perform the heating operation according to the preset heating time.

[0076] During the above process, the third, fourth, and fifth correction coefficients can be adjusted to extend or shorten the preset heating time as needed to ensure that the corrected heating time matches the actual heating time required by the washing machine as closely as possible. This allows the washing machine to heat the washing water to the target temperature when performing the heating operation according to the third, fourth, or fifth correction heating time, further improving the user experience.

[0077] It should be noted that the actual ambient temperature, actual initial water temperature, preset initial water temperature, preset ambient water temperature, preset heating time, heating time to be extended or shortened, first corrected heating time, second corrected heating time, third corrected heating time, fourth corrected heating time, fifth corrected heating time, first correction coefficient, second correction coefficient, third correction coefficient, fourth correction coefficient, and fifth correction coefficient listed above are merely illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art can flexibly adjust and set the actual ambient temperature, actual initial water temperature, preset initial water temperature, preset ambient water temperature, preset heating time, heating time to be extended or shortened, first corrected heating time, second corrected heating time, third corrected heating time, fourth corrected heating time, fifth corrected heating time, first correction coefficient, second correction coefficient, third correction coefficient, fourth correction coefficient, and fifth correction coefficient according to usage requirements in practical applications.

[0078] It should also be noted that in the above process, steps S511, S514 to S517 are parallel and have no sequential order. They are only related to the comparison results between the actual initial water temperature and the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature, respectively. The corresponding steps are executed based on different comparison results. Steps S521 and S522 are parallel and have no sequential order. They are only related to the judgment result of whether the absolute value of the difference is less than or equal to the preset value. The corresponding steps are executed based on different judgment results. Steps S523 and S524 are parallel and have no sequential order. They are only related to the judgment result of whether the actual ambient temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature. The corresponding steps are executed based on different judgment results.

[0079] The following reference Figures 4 to 6 The control method of the present invention is further described below. Figure 4 This is a complete flowchart of the control method of the present invention; Figure 5 This is the flow chart of the control method for selectively stopping the operation of a washing machine according to the present invention. Figure 1 ; Figure 6 This is the flow chart of the control method for selectively stopping the operation of a washing machine according to the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0080] like Figure 4 As shown, during the process of the washing machine performing the heating operation according to the preset heating time or the modified heating time, the control method also includes:

[0081] S600: Obtain the temperature change of the washing water within a preset time;

[0082] S700: Determine whether the temperature change is less than the preset change.

[0083] S800: Based on the judgment result, selectively stop the washing machine from running.

[0084] In step S600, the temperature of the washing water is detected by a first temperature sensor at a preset time, and the temperature change is calculated based on the temperatures detected between two consecutive measurements. For example, if the preset time is 1 minute, and the temperatures detected between two consecutive measurements are 20℃ and 20.6℃, the temperature change is 0.6℃ / min; or if the preset time is 1 minute, and the temperatures detected between two consecutive measurements are 20℃ and 20.1℃, the temperature change is 0.1℃ / min.

[0085] By employing the above control method, during the heating operation of the washing machine according to the preset heating time or the modified heating time, the temperature change of the washing water within the preset time is obtained, and it is determined whether the temperature change is less than the preset change. Based on the determination result, the washing machine is selectively stopped from running. This avoids the washing machine from continuing to run when there is a heating failure and the user's needs cannot be met, and also avoids stopping the washing machine when there is a heating failure but the user's needs are not significantly affected, thereby improving the user experience.

[0086] like Figure 5 As shown, step S800, "selectively stopping the washing machine based on the judgment result," specifically includes:

[0087] S811. If the temperature change is greater than or equal to the preset change, the washing machine shall continue to perform the heating operation.

[0088] S812. If the temperature change is less than the preset change, then obtain the current operating stage of the washing machine.

[0089] S813. Selectively stop the washing machine from running according to the operating stage.

[0090] In step S811, if the temperature change is greater than or equal to the preset change, for example, the preset change is 0.5℃ / min and the temperature change calculated in step S600 is 0.6℃ / min, which is greater than the preset change, it means that the washing machine is heating normally and can heat the washing water to the heating temperature. Then the washing machine can continue to perform the heating operation until the washing program ends.

[0091] In step S812, if the temperature change is less than the preset change, for example, the preset change is 0.5℃ / min, and the temperature change calculated in step S600 is 0.1℃ / min, which is less than the preset change, it indicates that the washing machine is malfunctioning and cannot heat normally, and cannot heat the washing water to the heating temperature. Considering that the heating malfunction may not affect the user's usage needs, for example, the washing water temperature can be heated to 40℃ during the washing heating stage, or the washing water can be cleaned without heating, then the washing machine can be selectively stopped according to the current operating stage of the washing machine.

[0092] like Figure 6 As shown, step S813, "selectively stopping the washing machine according to the operating stage," specifically includes:

[0093] S821. If the washing machine is in the washing and heating stage, stop the washing machine from performing the heating operation and start the washing operation.

[0094] S822. At the same time or after the washing machine finishes running, send a prompt message to notify the user of a washing machine heating malfunction.

[0095] In step S821, if the washing machine is in the washing and heating stage, the heating operation is performed in this stage to heat the temperature of the washing water to the heating temperature, thereby improving the washing effect. However, even if the washing water is not heated, the clothes can be cleaned by using only room temperature washing water, which will not affect the user's needs. However, if the washing machine malfunctions and cannot heat the washing water to the heating temperature, the washing machine will stop performing the heating operation and start the washing operation until the washing program ends.

[0096] In step S822, due to a heating malfunction in the washing machine, a notification message is sent to the user at the same time or after the washing machine has finished running to inform them of the heating malfunction. At this time, the washing machine has already finished running, allowing the user to handle the issue promptly, preventing the user from forgetting to handle it, and avoiding affecting the operation of the washing machine, thus further improving the user experience.

[0097] Furthermore, prompts can be issued in the form of voice, light, sound, and images.

[0098] Continue reading Figure 6 In step S813, the step of "selectively stopping the washing machine according to the operating stage" further includes:

[0099] S831. If the washing machine is in the hot wash stage, a prompt message is sent to notify the user of a heating malfunction in the washing machine.

[0100] S832, Obtain the input control commands;

[0101] S833. Determine whether the content of the control command is to stop the washing machine from running;

[0102] S834. If the control command is to stop the washing machine, then stop the washing machine.

[0103] S835. If the control instruction is to make the washing machine continue to run, then the washing machine shall stop performing the heating operation and perform the rinsing operation.

[0104] The hot water washing stage is usually performed during the last rinse or the penultimate rinse stage of the washing machine.

[0105] In step S831, if the washing machine is in the hot washing stage, it means that the user needs to sterilize the clothes at high temperature. However, the washing machine is malfunctioning and cannot heat the washing water to the required temperature, thus failing to sterilize the clothes at high temperature. This will affect the user's usage needs. Therefore, a prompt message is sent to the user to indicate that the washing machine is malfunctioning and whether to stop the washing machine. The decision to stop the washing machine is made based on the user's needs.

[0106] Furthermore, prompts can be issued in the form of voice, light, sound, and images.

[0107] In step S832, the control commands input by the user through the control panel of the washing machine or the user's voice control commands can be obtained.

[0108] In step S834, if the control instruction is to stop the washing machine, it means that the user needs to sterilize the clothes at high temperature and does not want the washing machine to continue running, so the washing machine can be stopped.

[0109] In step S835, if the control instruction is to keep the washing machine running, it means that the user does not want the clothes to be sterilized at high temperature and the user wants the washing machine to continue running. However, the washing machine is malfunctioning and cannot heat the washing water to the required temperature. In this case, the washing machine will stop the heating operation and start the rinsing operation until the washing program ends.

[0110] It should be noted that in the above process, steps S811 and S812 are not sequential but parallel, and are only related to the judgment result of whether the temperature change is less than the preset change. The corresponding steps are executed according to different judgment results. Steps S821 and S831 are not sequential but parallel, and are only related to the current operating stage of the washing machine. The corresponding steps are executed according to different stages. Steps S834 and S835 are not sequential but parallel, and are only related to the content of the control command. The corresponding steps are executed according to different control commands.

[0111] The following reference Figure 7 This paper describes one possible control flow of the present invention. Figure 7 This is a logic diagram of the control method of the present invention.

[0112] like Figure 7 As shown, a possible complete flow of the control method of the present invention is as follows:

[0113] S901. When the washing machine is set to a heating program, obtain the actual ambient temperature Te1, the actual initial water temperature Tw1, and the preset initial water temperature Tw0.

[0114] S902. Compare Tw1 with Te1 and Tw0 respectively;

[0115] If Tw1 > Te1 and Tw1 > Tw0, then proceed to step S903;

[0116] If Tw1 > Te1 and Tw1 ≤ Tw0, then proceed to step S909;

[0117] If Tw1≤Te1 and Tw1<Tw0, then proceed to step S910;

[0118] If Tw1≤Te1 and Tw1>Tw0, then proceed to step S911;

[0119] If Tw1≤Te1 and Tw1=Tw0, then proceed to step S908;

[0120] S903. Calculate the difference ΔT1 between Te1 and Tw0;

[0121] S904, Determine if |△T1|≤ preset value T 01 Is it true? If not, proceed to step S905; if yes, proceed to step S908.

[0122] S905. Determine if Te1 > Tw0 is true. If yes, proceed to step S906; if no, proceed to step S907.

[0123] S906. Correct the preset heating time t0 according to the first correction coefficient k1 to obtain the first corrected heating time t1, where k1 < 1;

[0124] S907. Correct the preset heating time t0 according to the second correction coefficient k2 to obtain the second corrected heating time t2, where k2 > 1;

[0125] S908, Do not correct preset heating time;

[0126] S909. The preset heating time t0 is corrected according to the third correction coefficient k3 to obtain the third corrected heating time t3, where k3 > 1;

[0127] S910. Correct the preset heating time t0 according to the fourth correction coefficient k4 to obtain the fourth corrected heating time t4, where k4 > 1;

[0128] S911. Correct the preset heating time t0 according to the fifth correction coefficient k5 to obtain the fifth corrected heating time t5, where k5 < 1;

[0129] During the process of the washing machine performing the heating operation according to the preset heating time or the modified heating time, steps S912 to S922 are executed.

[0130] S912. Obtain the temperature change of the washing water ΔT2 within a preset time.

[0131] S913. Determine whether △T2 < preset change △T0 is true. If yes, proceed to step S914; if no, proceed to step S922.

[0132] S914. Obtain the current operating stage of the washing machine;

[0133] If the washing machine is in the washing and heating stage, proceed to step S915;

[0134] If the washing machine is in the hot wash stage, proceed to step S917;

[0135] S915. Stop the washing machine from performing the heating operation and start the washing machine from performing the washing operation;

[0136] S916. At the same time or after the washing machine finishes running, send a prompt message to notify the user of a washing machine heating malfunction.

[0137] S917. Send a notification message to inform the user of a washing machine heating malfunction;

[0138] S918, Obtain input control commands;

[0139] S919. Determine whether the control command is to stop the washing machine; if yes, proceed to step S920; if no, proceed to step S921.

[0140] S920, Stop the washing machine from running;

[0141] S921. Stop the washing machine from performing the heating operation and start the washing machine from performing the rinsing operation;

[0142] S922, To enable the washing machine to continue the heating operation.

[0143] It should be noted that the above embodiments are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention, used only to illustrate the principle of the method of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. In practical applications, those skilled in the art can allocate the above functions to different steps as needed, that is, further decompose or combine the steps in the embodiments of the present invention. For example, the steps in the above embodiments can be combined into one step, or further divided into multiple sub-steps to complete all or part of the functions described above. The names of the steps involved in the embodiments of the present invention are merely for distinguishing the various steps and are not considered as limitations on the present invention.

[0144] The technical solution of the present invention has been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of the present invention is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of the present invention, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after such changes or substitutions will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for washing equipment, characterized in that, The control method includes the following steps: When the washing equipment is set to a heating program, the actual ambient temperature is obtained; Obtain the actual initial water temperature; Obtain the preset initial water temperature; The actual initial water temperature is compared with the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature, respectively. Based on the comparison results, the preset heating time of the washing equipment is selectively adjusted to obtain the adjusted heating time; The step of "selectively adjusting the preset heating time of the washing equipment based on the comparison results to obtain the adjusted heating time" specifically includes: If the actual initial water temperature is greater than the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature, then calculate the difference between the actual ambient temperature and the preset initial water temperature; determine whether the absolute value of the difference is less than or equal to a preset value; based on the determination result, selectively adjust the preset heating time to obtain the adjusted heating time; The step of "selectively adjusting the preset heating time based on the judgment result to obtain the adjusted heating time" specifically includes: If the absolute value of the difference is greater than the preset value, then it is determined whether the actual ambient temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature; If the actual ambient temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature, the preset heating time is corrected according to the first correction coefficient to obtain the first corrected heating time, wherein the first correction coefficient is less than 1 and the first corrected heating time is less than the preset heating time.

2. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of "selectively adjusting the preset heating time based on the judgment result to obtain the adjusted heating time" further includes: If the actual ambient temperature is less than the preset initial water temperature, the preset heating time is corrected according to the second correction coefficient to obtain the second corrected heating time, wherein the second correction coefficient is greater than 1 and the second corrected heating time is greater than the preset heating time.

3. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of "selectively adjusting the preset heating time based on the judgment result to obtain the adjusted heating time" further includes: If the absolute value of the difference is less than or equal to the preset value, the preset heating time is not corrected.

4. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of "selectively adjusting the preset heating time of the washing equipment based on the comparison results to obtain the adjusted heating time" further includes: If the actual initial water temperature is greater than the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time is corrected according to a third correction coefficient to obtain a third corrected heating time, wherein the third correction coefficient is greater than 1, and the third corrected heating time is greater than the preset heating time; and / or If the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is less than the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time is corrected according to a fourth correction coefficient to obtain a fourth corrected heating time, wherein the fourth correction coefficient is greater than 1, and the fourth corrected heating time is greater than the preset heating time; and / or If the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is greater than the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time is corrected according to the fifth correction coefficient to obtain the fifth corrected heating time, wherein the fifth correction coefficient is less than 1, and the fifth corrected heating time is less than the preset heating time; and / or If the actual initial water temperature is less than or equal to the actual ambient temperature and the actual initial water temperature is equal to the preset initial water temperature, then the preset heating time will not be adjusted.

5. The control method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The preset heating time is the time it takes for the washing equipment to heat the washing water at the preset initial temperature to the target temperature. The corrected heating time is the time it takes for the washing equipment to heat the washing water from its actual initial temperature to the target temperature, and The washing water volume corresponding to the preset heating time is equal to the washing water volume corresponding to the corrected heating time; and / or The preset initial water temperature is equal to the preset ambient temperature, wherein the preset ambient temperature is the ambient temperature corresponding to the setting of the preset heating time.

6. The control method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The control method further includes: During the process of the washing equipment performing a heating operation according to the preset heating time or the modified heating time, the temperature change of the washing water within the preset time is obtained; Determine whether the temperature change is less than a preset change amount; Based on the judgment result, the washing equipment is selectively stopped from operating.

7. The control method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The step of "selectively stopping the washing equipment based on the judgment result" specifically includes: If the temperature change is less than the preset change, then the current operating stage of the washing equipment is obtained; Depending on the operating phase, the washing equipment may be selectively stopped.

8. The control method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The step of "selectively stopping the washing equipment according to the operating phase" specifically includes: If the washing equipment is in the hot washing stage, a prompt message is sent to notify the user that the washing equipment is malfunctioning. Acquire input control commands; Determine whether the content of the control command is to stop the washing equipment from operating; If the control command is to stop the washing equipment, then stop the washing equipment; and / or If the control command is to make the washing equipment continue to operate, then the washing equipment shall stop performing the heating operation and perform the rinsing operation.

9. The control method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The control method further includes: If the temperature change is greater than or equal to the preset change, the washing equipment continues to perform the heating operation; and / or If the washing equipment is in the washing heating stage, then the washing equipment should stop performing the heating operation and start performing the washing operation. At the same time as or after the washing equipment finishes operating, a prompt message is sent to notify the user of a heating malfunction in the washing equipment.

Citation Information

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