Washing Machines and Their Testing Methods

Abstract

This application provides a washing machine and its detection method. The washing machine includes: a detection assembly comprising a first detection part and a second detection part, including a strain gauge and a shared strain gauge; an airbag connected to the first detection part; and an outer drum for holding washing water, the outer drum being connected to the second detection part. The detection assembly has a first detection state and a second detection state. In the first detection state, the first detection part drives the strain gauge to generate a first detection signal, and the washing machine determines that the outer drum is impacting the airbag based on the first detection signal. In the second detection state, the second detection part drives the strain gauge to generate a second detection signal, which is different from the first detection signal, and the washing machine determines the water level inside the outer drum based on the second detection signal. The detection assembly can detect the water level inside the outer drum not only during the water inlet and outlet stages but also during the spin-drying stage. The detection assembly is feature-rich, highly integrated, space-saving, and cost-effective.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of washing machine technology, and in particular relates to a washing machine and a testing method thereof. Background Technology

[0002] Washing machines are commonly divided into front-loading washing machines and top-loading washing machines based on their washing principles. Front-loading washing machines are designed to mimic the principle of beating clothes with a stick. As the drum rotates, it generates centrifugal force, causing repeated motion. Combined with the action of detergent and water, this cleans the clothes. Top-loading washing machines, driven by an impeller, create a vortex in the drum that rotates clockwise and counterclockwise, causing the clothes to rotate and tumble, thereby removing dirt from the clothes.

[0003] Both front-loading and top-loading washing machines are typically equipped with a water level sensor to detect the water level in the inner drum. Top-loading washing machines also have a drum-collision switch to detect the drum colliding during the spin cycle. However, current washing machines have separate water level sensors and drum-collision switches, which take up a lot of space and are costly. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a washing machine and its detection method. The integrated detection component can detect the water level and also act as a drum-striking switch, which can reduce space occupation and save costs.

[0005] This application provides a washing machine, including:

[0006] The detection assembly includes a strain gauge and a first detection part and a second detection part sharing the strain gauge;

[0007] An airbag, connected to the first detection unit; and

[0008] An outer cylinder is used to hold washing water, and the outer cylinder is connected to the second detection unit;

[0009] The detection component has a first detection state and a second detection state. In the first detection state, the first detection unit drives the strain element to generate a first detection signal, and the washing machine determines that the outer drum is impacting the airbag based on the first detection signal. In the second detection state, the second detection unit drives the strain element to generate a second detection signal, which is different from the first detection signal. The washing machine determines the water level in the outer drum based on the second detection signal.

[0010] Optionally, the detection assembly further includes a housing, the strain member dividing the housing into a first chamber and a second chamber, the housing having a first interface corresponding to the first chamber and a second interface corresponding to the second chamber;

[0011] The first detection unit includes a first membrane, which divides the first chamber into a first sub-chamber and a second sub-chamber. The first sub-chamber is connected to the first interface, and the airbag is connected to the first interface through a first trachea.

[0012] The second detection unit includes a second diaphragm that divides the second chamber into a third sub-chamber and a fourth sub-chamber. The fourth sub-chamber is connected to the second interface, and the outer cylinder is connected to the second interface through a second air tube.

[0013] In the first detection state, the air pressure change in the first sub-cavity drives the first diaphragm to shift, and causes the strain gauge to generate the first detection signal; in the second detection state, the air pressure change in the fourth sub-cavity drives the second diaphragm to shift, and causes the strain gauge to generate the second detection signal.

[0014] Optionally, the detection assembly further includes a mounting plate connected to the housing. The mounting plate is used to support the strain gauge, and the mounting plate and the strain gauge together divide the housing into the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0015] In the initial state of the detection assembly, the strain gauges are symmetrically arranged about the mounting plate in the second sub-cavity and the third sub-cavity.

[0016] Optionally, the strain gauge includes a connected elastic sensing element and a resistance strain gauge. The elastic sensing element can deform when subjected to pressure, and the resistance strain gauge can convert the deformation of the elastic sensing element into resistance. Both the first detection signal and the second detection signal are resistance changes, and the resistance change rate of the first detection signal is greater than the resistance change rate of the second detection signal.

[0017] Optionally, the detection assembly further includes a wiring tube that passes through the housing and is sealed to the housing. The wiring tube is used to accommodate the wires connecting the resistance strain gauge.

[0018] Optionally, the washing machine further includes:

[0019] A housing with a receiving space, an outer cylinder disposed within the receiving space, and the outer cylinder being connected to the housing via a hanging rod; and

[0020] A lid, rotatably connected to the housing, to expose or cover the containing space;

[0021] The second air tube is wound around the boom; and / or the first air tube is integrally formed with the airbag.

[0022] Optionally, the detection component is disposed on the side of the cover facing the receiving space; and / or

[0023] Both the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm comprise elastic materials.

[0024] This application embodiment also provides a method for detecting a washing machine. The washing machine includes a detection component, an airbag, and an outer drum. The detection component includes a strain gauge and a first detection part and a second detection part sharing the strain gauge. The first detection part is connected to the airbag, and the second detection part is connected to the outer drum. The detection method includes:

[0025] Acquire the detection signal of the strain gauge;

[0026] If the detection signal of the strain gauge is the first detection signal generated by the strain gauge driven by the first detection unit, then it is determined that the outer cylinder impacts the airbag.

[0027] If the detection signal of the strain gauge is the second detection signal generated by the strain gauge driven by the second detection unit, then the water level inside the outer cylinder is determined, and the second detection signal is different from the first detection signal.

[0028] Optionally, the detection assembly further includes a housing, the strain gauge dividing the housing into a first chamber and a second chamber, the first chamber communicating with the airbag, and the second chamber communicating with the outer cylinder; the step of determining that the outer cylinder impacts the airbag if the detection signal of the strain gauge is a first detection signal generated by the strain gauge driven by the first detection unit includes:

[0029] Obtain the air pressure in the first chamber within a set time period;

[0030] If the air pressure in the first chamber changes within the set time period, it is determined that the first detection signal is generated by the strain element driven by the first detection unit.

[0031] If the detection signal of the strain gauge is a second detection signal generated by the second detection unit driving the strain gauge, then the water level inside the outer cylinder is determined. The second detection signal is different from the first detection signal, including:

[0032] Obtain the air pressure in the second chamber within a set time period;

[0033] If the air pressure in the second chamber changes within the set time period, it is determined that the second detection unit drives the strain element to generate a second detection signal.

[0034] Optionally, before acquiring the detection signal of the strain gauge, the detection method further includes:

[0035] The washing stage of the washing machine is obtained, and the washing stage includes a water inlet / outlet stage and a spin-drying stage;

[0036] During the water intake and drainage stage and the dehydration stage, the detection signals of the strain gauge are acquired respectively.

[0037] The washing machine and its detection method provided in this application integrate the water level sensor and the drum-collision switch into a single detection component. This allows the detection component to detect not only the water level in the outer drum during the water inlet and outlet stages, but also the drum-collision situation during the spin-drying stage. The detection component is feature-rich, highly integrated, saves space, and reduces costs. Furthermore, compared to LC oscillation circuit water level detection, strain gauge water level detection is less affected by temperature, thus improving the accuracy of water level detection. Attached Figure Description

[0038] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0039] To gain a more complete understanding of this application and its beneficial effects, the following description will be provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals denote the same parts.

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a first structure of a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0041] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a second structure of a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0042] Figure 3 for Figure 2 The diagram shows the structure of the detection component in the washing machine.

[0043] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the testing method for a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0045] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a first structural embodiment of a washing machine provided in this application. This application provides a washing machine 1, which can be a pulsator washing machine. The washing principle of a pulsator washing machine is that, driven by the pulsator, the water flow inside the drum forms a vortex that rotates clockwise and counterclockwise, causing the clothes to rotate and tumble, thereby removing dirt from the clothes. Exemplarily, the washing machine 1 includes a housing 10, a cover 20, and an outer drum 30. The housing 10 has a receiving space 11, and the housing 10 can be in the shape of a cuboid, cube, cylinder, etc. The cover 20 is rotatably connected to the housing 10 to expose or close the receiving space 11. The outer drum 30 is disposed within the receiving space 11. For example, the outer drum 30 can be connected to the housing 10 via a hanging rod 31, and the outer drum 30 is used to hold washing water. The washing machine 1 also includes an inner drum, which is disposed inside the outer drum 30. The inner drum can rotate relative to the outer drum 30, and the inner drum has a drain hole to allow the washing water in the outer drum 30 to enter the inner drum through the drain hole. When the inner drum is centrifugally rotating, the water in the clothes can be spun out faster through the drain hole.

[0046] In related technologies, washing machines typically have a water level sensor to detect the amount of water in the outer drum, allowing for matching the amount of laundry and adjusting the dosage of detergent or washing powder. These water level sensors mostly use an LC oscillation circuit, connected to the bottom of the washing machine drum via a pipe. When water enters the washing machine, the air pressure in the pipe increases, squeezing the diaphragm in the water level sensor and causing the iron core to penetrate deeper into the coil, thus changing the inductance. The water level frequency is then calculated based on the inductance to determine the water level height. This type of water level sensor is susceptible to temperature fluctuations, leading to inaccurate water level measurements. Furthermore, for top-loading washing machines, a linkage switch is usually installed to detect drum collisions. When the washing machine hits the linkage switch, the circuit inside the switch disconnects, transmitting a signal to the washing machine's chip. The chip then makes a judgment; for example, if the linkage switch disconnects during the spin cycle, the chip will determine that the drum collision is caused by excessive eccentricity of the clothes inside the drum. In this case, the chip can control the inner drum to vibrate and disperse the clothes, or issue a warning signal to remind the user to distribute the clothes evenly. However, in related technologies, the water level sensor and the impactor switch are both set up independently, which takes up a lot of space and is costly.

[0047] To reduce the occurrence of the above-mentioned phenomena, the washing machine of this application embodiment has improved the water level sensor and the drum-collision switch, which will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0048] Please combine Figure 1 And see Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of a second structure of a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application. The washing machine 1 further includes a detection component 40 and an airbag 50. The detection component 40 includes a strain element 41 and a first detection part 42 and a second detection part 43 sharing the strain element 41. The airbag 50 is a sealed elastic element. Due to different internal pressures, the external shape of the airbag 50 can vary. The airbag 50 is connected to the first detection part 42. The outer drum 30 is connected to the second detection part 43. The detection component 40 has a first detection state and a second detection state. In the first detection state, the first detection part 42 drives the strain element 41 to generate a first detection signal, and the washing machine 1 determines that the outer drum 30 impacts the airbag 50 based on the first detection signal. In the second detection state, the second detection part 43 drives the strain element 41 to generate a second detection signal, which is different from the first detection signal. The washing machine 1 determines the water level inside the outer drum 30 based on the second detection signal.

[0049] This application provides a detection component 40 in the washing machine 1 provided in the embodiment, which integrates the water level sensor and the drum-collision switch in the washing machine 1 into one unit. This allows the detection component 40 to detect not only the water level height in the outer drum 30 during the water inlet and outlet stages, but also the drum-collision situation during the spin-drying stage. The detection component 40 has rich functions, high integration, can save space, and can reduce costs. In addition, compared with the water level detection of the LC oscillation circuit, the strain gauge water level detection is less affected by temperature, which improves the accuracy of water level detection.

[0050] For example, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 And see Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 for Figure 2The diagram shows the structure of the detection component in the washing machine. The detection component 40 also includes a housing 44. A strain gauge 41 divides the housing 44 into a first chamber 440 and a second chamber 442. The housing 44 has a first interface 441 corresponding to the first chamber 440 and a second interface 443 corresponding to the second chamber 442. The first detection unit 42 includes a first diaphragm 420, which divides the first chamber 440 into a first sub-chamber 4400 and a second sub-chamber 4402. The first sub-chamber 4400 is connected to the first interface 441, and the airbag 50 is connected to the first interface 441 via a first air tube 51. The second detection unit 43 includes a second diaphragm 430, which divides the second chamber 442 into a third sub-chamber 4420 and a fourth sub-chamber 4422. The fourth sub-chamber 4422 is connected to the second interface 443, and the outer drum 30 is connected to the second interface 443 via a second air tube 32. In the first detection state, the pressure change in the first sub-cavity 4400 drives the first diaphragm 420 to shift, which in turn causes the strain gauge 41 to generate a first detection signal. In the second detection state, the pressure change in the fourth sub-cavity 4422 drives the second diaphragm 430 to shift, which in turn causes the strain gauge 41 to generate a second detection signal.

[0051] It should be noted that the first sub-cavity 4400, the second sub-cavity 4402, the third sub-cavity 4420, and the fourth sub-cavity 4422 are all sealed chambers, and changes in air pressure within these chambers will affect the state of the strain gauge 41. For example, the detection assembly 40 also includes a mounting plate 45, which is connected to the housing 44. The mounting plate 45 supports the strain gauge 41, and together with the strain gauge 41, divides the housing 44 into the first chamber 440 and the second chamber 442. In the initial state of the detection assembly 40, the strain gauge 41 is symmetrically arranged about the mounting plate 45 in the second sub-cavity 4402 and the third sub-cavity 4420. For example, the strain gauge 41 includes a connected elastic sensing element and a resistance strain gauge. The elastic sensing element can deform under pressure, and the resistance strain gauge can convert the deformation of the elastic sensing element into resistance. Both the first detection signal and the second detection signal are resistance changes, and the rate of resistance change of the first detection signal is greater than that of the second detection signal. It is understandable that, since the first detection signal corresponds to the impact signal and the second detection signal corresponds to the water level change inside the outer cylinder 30, and the impact signal changes instantaneously, the resistance change rate of the first detection signal is greater than that of the second detection signal.

[0052] For example, the detection component 40 also includes a wiring tube 46, which passes through the housing 44 and is sealed to the housing 44. The wiring tube 46 is used to accommodate the wires connecting the resistance strain gauge, so as to transmit the resistance signal of the resistance strain gauge to the chip in the washing machine 1, thereby facilitating the washing machine 1 to make a judgment. It is understood that the first chamber 440 and the second chamber 442 are both sealed chambers. Therefore, when setting some components such as wires, the sealing problem also needs to be considered. Therefore, the wiring tube 46 is provided to solve the above problem.

[0053] For example, the detection component 40 is disposed on the side of the cover 20 facing the receiving space 11. The first air tube 51 can be integrally formed with the airbag 50, which can save the process of connecting the airbag 50 and the first air tube 51, thereby improving the sealing performance of the airbag 50 and the first air tube 51, and facilitating the manufacturing of the airbag 50 and the first air tube 51. The second air tube 32 can be wound around the hanger 31 to reduce friction on the second air tube 32 caused by the vibration of the washing machine 1.

[0054] For example, both the first diaphragm 420 and the second diaphragm 430 comprise an elastic material, such as silicone, and require heat treatment to prevent deformation at high temperatures. It is understood that the detection assembly 40 is bilaterally symmetrical.

[0055] It should be noted that the resistance of the strain gauge in this embodiment changes under stress, and the water level sensor and the drum-collision switch are designed based on this principle. During the water inlet and outlet stages, the water pressure is calculated based on the change in resistance of the strain gauge, thus determining the water level. During the spin-drying stage, the instantaneous change in resistance of the strain gauge is used to detect drum collision. The detection component 40 in this embodiment can accurately detect the water level during the water inlet stage of the washing machine 1, preventing excessive or insufficient water intake and ensuring efficient water resource utilization. During the spin-drying stage, the instantaneous change in resistance of the strain gauge detects drum collision. This truly allows the same detection component 40 to perform different detection functions, reducing the space occupied by the device.

[0056] The detection component 40 in this embodiment replaces the existing LC oscillation circuit water level sensor with a resistance strain gauge-based sensor, and connects it to the bottom of the outer drum 30 of the washing machine 1 through the second air pipe 32. When the water level in the outer drum 30 increases, the water level height can be detected; when the washing machine 1 finishes draining water and enters the spin-drying state, the drum collision situation can be detected. The same detection component 40 realizes different detection functions.

[0057] When washing machine 1 is in a stable state and not filled with water, the resistance of the strain gauge is set to 0. During the water filling phase of washing machine 1, the water level in the outer drum 30 increases, the air in the second air pipe 32 is compressed, the air pressure in the fourth sub-cavity 4422 increases, the second diaphragm 430 compresses the strain gauge 41, and the resistance of the strain gauge 41 changes. As the water level increases, the rate of change of resistance gradually increases. Different threshold values ​​can be set to correspond to different water level heights. When the set threshold is reached, it indicates that water filling is complete and water filling can be stopped.

[0058] When spin-drying is required, water is drained first. At this time, the pressure inside the fourth sub-cavity 4422 decreases, and the rate of change of resistance gradually decreases. When the resistance returns to 0, it means that the water in the outer drum 30 of the washing machine 1 has been drained and spin-drying can begin. During the normal spin-drying stage, the resistance of the strain gauge 41 remains at 0. If a drum collision occurs at this time, that is, the outer drum 30 of the washing machine 1 collides with the airbag 50, the airbag 50 is compressed, the air pressure in the first sub-cavity 4400 increases, and the first diaphragm 420 compresses the strain gauge 41. Since the drum collision occurs very rapidly, the resistance of the strain gauge 41 also changes very rapidly. When a very rapid change in the resistance of the strain gauge 41 is detected during the spin-drying stage, the chip of the washing machine 1 determines that a drum collision has occurred during spin-drying.

[0059] When the water level in the outer drum 30 of washing machine 1 is high, washing machine 1 will not spin-dry. That is, under normal and undisturbed conditions, washing machine 1 will not collide with the drum without spin-drying. Therefore, the first diaphragm 420 and the second diaphragm 430 will not simultaneously compress the strain gauge 41. When washing machine 1 is preparing to spin-dry, the water level in the outer drum 30 is low, or in other words, there is virtually no water accumulation in the outer drum 30. At this time, the resistance of strain gauge 41 will be close to 0. During the spin-drying stage, the resistance of strain gauge 41 also remains around 0. When drum collision occurs, the resistance of strain gauge 41 increases and decreases sharply, at which point drum collision can be detected.

[0060] According to the formula R1 / R2=Ks*l, R1 / R2 is the rate of change of resistance, Ks is the sensitivity coefficient of the material, which means the rate of change of resistance per unit strain, and l is the strain at the detection point. l is proportional to the magnitude of the pressure, that is, the higher the water level, the greater the rate of change of resistance.

[0061] Please combine Figures 1 to 3 And see Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the detection method for a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application. To more clearly illustrate the detection method of the detection components in this embodiment, this application also provides a detection method for a washing machine. The structural composition of the washing machine 1 can be referred to... Figures 1 to 3 The above explanation will not be repeated here. The testing methods for washing machines include:

[0062] 101. Obtain the detection signal of the strain gauge.

[0063] The detection signal of strain gauge 41 represents the state change of washing machine 1. For example, the detection signal can reflect the change in water inlet in the outer drum 30 of washing machine 1; or, for example, the detection signal can reflect the impact phenomenon of the outer drum 30 hitting the airbag 50. For example, strain gauge 41 is a combination of elastic sensing element and resistance strain gauge. Therefore, the detection signal can be the resistance value signal, that is, when the resistance changes, the detection signal is obtained.

[0064] For example, before acquiring the detection signal of the strain gauge, the washing stage of the washing machine 1 can be acquired first. The washing stage includes the water inlet and drainage stage and the spin-drying stage. The detection signal of the strain gauge 41 can be acquired in the water inlet and drainage stage and the spin-drying stage, respectively.

[0065] It should be noted that the resistance of the strain gauge 41 in this embodiment changes under stress and deformation. The water level sensor and drum-collision switch are designed based on this principle. During the water inlet and outlet stages, the magnitude of the water pressure is calculated based on the change in resistance of the strain gauge 41, thereby calculating the water level. During the spin-drying stage, the instantaneous change in the strain gauge 41 is used to detect drum-collision. The detection component 40 in this embodiment can accurately detect the water level during the water inlet stage of the washing machine 1, avoiding problems of excessive or insufficient water intake and making rational use of water resources. During the spin-drying stage, the instantaneous change in the strain gauge 41 is used to detect drum-collision. This truly allows the same detection component 40 to perform different detection functions, reducing the space occupied by the device.

[0066] 102. If the detection signal of the strain gauge is the first detection signal generated by the strain gauge driven by the first detection unit, then it is determined that the outer cylinder impacts the airbag.

[0067] If the detection signal of the strain element 41 is the first detection signal generated by the strain element 41 driven by the first detection unit 42, then the washing machine 1 determines that the outer drum 30 is in the state of impacting the air bag 50. At this time, it can be in the spin-drying stage. The impact of the outer drum 30 on the air bag 50 indicates that the eccentricity of the clothes in the outer drum 30 is too large. At this time, the washing machine 1 can automatically perform shaking adjustment or issue an alarm signal to remind the user to place the clothes evenly and reduce the impact of eccentricity on the spin-drying of the clothes.

[0068] The first detection signal generated by the strain gauge 41 can be distinguished by the change in air pressure within the chamber. For example, the air pressure of the first chamber 440 is acquired within a set time period. If the air pressure of the first chamber 440 changes within the set time period, it is determined that the first detection signal is generated by the strain gauge 41 driven by the first detection unit 42.

[0069] 103. If the detection signal of the strain gauge is the second detection signal generated by the strain gauge driven by the second detection unit, then the water level inside the outer cylinder is determined. The second detection signal is different from the first detection signal.

[0070] If the detection signal of strain gauge 41 is the second detection signal generated by strain gauge 41 driven by second detection unit 43, then the water level inside outer cylinder 30 is determined, and the second detection signal is different from the first detection signal. At this time, the system can be in the water inlet / outlet stage. Multiple thresholds can be set to correlate the resistance of strain gauge 41 with the water level in outer cylinder 30. For example, in the water inlet stage, a first threshold, a second threshold, and a third threshold can be set. The third threshold represents the water level height corresponding to the completion of water inlet. The second threshold can be the water level height when half the water has been inlet. The first threshold can be the water level height when there is no water in outer cylinder 30, i.e., the water level height is 0. During the water inlet process, the water level height changes from the first threshold, the second threshold, to the third threshold. When the third threshold is reached, it indicates that water inlet is complete. Correspondingly, in the water outlet stage, the water level height changes from the third threshold, the second threshold, to the first threshold. When the first threshold is reached, it indicates that water outlet is complete.

[0071] The second detection signal generated by the strain gauge 41 can be distinguished by the change in air pressure within the chamber. For example, the air pressure of the second chamber 442 is acquired within a set time period. If the air pressure of the second chamber 442 changes within the set time period, it is determined that the second detection signal is generated by the strain gauge 41 driven by the second detection unit 43.

[0072] In the washing machine detection method provided in this application embodiment, by integrating the water level sensor and the drum-collision switch in the washing machine 1 into a detection component 40, the detection component 40 can not only detect the water level height in the outer drum 30 during the water inlet and outlet stages, but also detect the drum-collision situation during the spin-drying stage. The detection component 40 has rich functions, high integration, can save space, and can reduce costs. In addition, compared with the water level detection of the LC oscillation circuit, the strain gauge water level detection is less affected by temperature, which improves the accuracy of water level detection.

[0073] The first chamber 440 is divided into a first sub-chamber 4400 and a second sub-chamber 4402 by a first detection section 42 including a first diaphragm 420, and the second chamber 442 is divided into a third sub-chamber 4420 and a fourth sub-chamber 4422 by a second detection section 43 including a second diaphragm 430.

[0074] When washing machine 1 is in a stable state and not filled with water, the resistance of the strain gauge is set to 0. During the water filling phase of washing machine 1, the water level in the outer drum 30 increases, the air in the second air pipe 32 is compressed, the air pressure in the fourth sub-cavity 4422 increases, the second diaphragm 430 compresses the strain gauge 41, and the resistance of the strain gauge 41 changes. As the water level increases, the rate of change of resistance gradually increases. Different threshold values ​​can be set to correspond to different water level heights. When the set threshold is reached, it indicates that water filling is complete and water filling can be stopped.

[0075] When spin-drying is required, water is drained first. At this time, the pressure inside the fourth sub-cavity 4422 decreases, and the rate of change of resistance gradually decreases. When the resistance returns to 0, it means that the water in the outer drum 30 of the washing machine 1 has been drained and spin-drying can begin. During the normal spin-drying stage, the resistance of the strain gauge 41 remains at 0. If a drum collision occurs at this time, that is, the outer drum 30 of the washing machine 1 collides with the airbag 50, the airbag 50 is compressed, the air pressure in the first sub-cavity 4400 increases, and the first diaphragm 420 compresses the strain gauge 41. Since the drum collision occurs very rapidly, the resistance of the strain gauge 41 also changes very rapidly. When a very rapid change in the resistance of the strain gauge 41 is detected during the spin-drying stage, the chip of the washing machine 1 determines that a drum collision has occurred during spin-drying.

[0076] When the water level in the outer drum 30 of washing machine 1 is high, washing machine 1 will not spin-dry. That is, under normal and undisturbed conditions, washing machine 1 will not collide with the drum without spin-drying. Therefore, the first diaphragm 420 and the second diaphragm 430 will not simultaneously compress the strain gauge 41. When washing machine 1 is preparing to spin-dry, the water level in the outer drum 30 is low, or in other words, there is virtually no water accumulation in the outer drum 30. At this time, the resistance of strain gauge 41 will be close to 0. During the spin-drying stage, the resistance of strain gauge 41 also remains around 0. When drum collision occurs, the resistance of strain gauge 41 increases and decreases sharply, at which point drum collision can be detected.

[0077] In the washing machine 1 and its detection method provided in this application embodiment, by integrating the water level sensor and the drum-collision switch in the washing machine 1 into a detection component 40, the detection component 40 can not only detect the water level height in the outer drum 30 during the water inlet and outlet stages, but also detect the drum-collision situation during the spin-drying stage. The detection component 40 has rich functions, high integration, can save space, and can reduce costs. In addition, compared with the water level detection of the LC oscillation circuit, the strain gauge water level detection is less affected by temperature, which improves the accuracy of water level detection.

[0078] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0079] In the description of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features.

[0080] The washing machine and its detection method provided in the embodiments of this application have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The description of the above embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this application. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of this application. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

Claims

1. A washing machine, characterized in that, include: A detection assembly includes a housing, a strain gauge, and a first detection unit and a second detection unit sharing the strain gauge. The strain gauge divides the housing into a first chamber and a second chamber. The housing has a first interface corresponding to the first chamber and a second interface corresponding to the second chamber. The first detection unit includes a first diaphragm that divides the first chamber into a first sub-chamber and a second sub-chamber. The first sub-chamber communicates with the first interface, and an airbag communicates with the first interface via a first air tube. The second detection unit includes a second diaphragm that divides the second chamber into a third sub-chamber and a fourth sub-chamber. The fourth sub-chamber communicates with the second interface, and an outer cylinder communicates with the second interface via a second air tube. The airbag is connected to the first detection unit. as well as An outer cylinder is used to hold washing water, and the outer cylinder is connected to the second detection unit; The detection component has a first detection state and a second detection state. In the first detection state, the first detection unit drives the strain element to generate a first detection signal. The air pressure change in the first sub-cavity drives the first diaphragm to shift, and drives the strain element to generate the first detection signal. The washing machine determines that the outer drum impacts the airbag based on the first detection signal. In the second detection state, the second detection unit drives the strain element to generate a second detection signal. The air pressure change in the fourth sub-cavity drives the second diaphragm to shift, and drives the strain element to generate the second detection signal. The second detection signal is different from the first detection signal. The washing machine determines the water level in the outer drum based on the second detection signal.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection assembly further includes a mounting plate connected to the housing. The mounting plate is used to support the strain gauge, and the mounting plate and the strain gauge together divide the housing into the first chamber and the second chamber. In the initial state of the detection assembly, the strain gauges are symmetrically arranged about the mounting plate in the second sub-cavity and the third sub-cavity.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The strain gauge includes an elastic sensing element and a resistive strain gauge connected together. The elastic sensing element can deform when subjected to pressure, and the resistive strain gauge can convert the deformation of the elastic sensing element into resistance. Both the first detection signal and the second detection signal are resistance changes, and the resistance change rate of the first detection signal is greater than the resistance change rate of the second detection signal.

4. The washing machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The detection assembly also includes a wiring tube that passes through the housing and is sealed to the housing. The wiring tube is used to accommodate the wires connecting the resistance strain gauge.

5. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The washing machine also includes: A housing with a receiving space, an outer cylinder disposed within the receiving space, and the outer cylinder being connected to the housing via a hanging rod; and A lid, rotatably connected to the housing, to expose or cover the containing space; The second air tube is wound around the boom; and / or the first air tube is integrally formed with the airbag.

6. The washing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The detection component is disposed on the side of the cover facing the receiving space; and / or Both the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm comprise elastic materials.

7. A method for testing a washing machine, characterized in that, The washing machine includes a detection component, an airbag, and an outer drum. The detection component includes a housing, a strain gauge, and a first detection part and a second detection part sharing the strain gauge. The strain gauge divides the housing into a first chamber and a second chamber. The housing has a first interface corresponding to the first chamber and a second interface corresponding to the second chamber. The first detection part includes a first diaphragm that divides the first chamber into a first sub-chamber and a second sub-chamber. The first sub-chamber communicates with the first interface. The airbag communicates with the first interface via a first air tube. The second detection part includes a second diaphragm that divides the second chamber into a third sub-chamber and a fourth sub-chamber. The fourth sub-chamber communicates with the second interface. The outer drum communicates with the second interface via a second air tube. The first detection unit is connected to the airbag, and the second detection unit is connected to the outer cylinder; the detection method includes: Acquire the detection signal of the strain gauge; If the detection signal of the strain gauge is the first detection signal generated by the strain gauge driven by the first detection unit, then it is determined that the outer cylinder impacts the airbag; including: the air pressure change of the first sub-cavity drives the first diaphragm to shift, and drives the strain gauge to generate the first detection signal; If the detection signal of the strain gauge is the second detection signal generated by the strain gauge driven by the second detection unit, then the water level in the outer cylinder is determined. The second detection signal is different from the first detection signal, including: the air pressure change of the fourth sub-cavity drives the second diaphragm to shift, and drives the strain gauge to generate the second detection signal.

8. The detection method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The detection assembly further includes a housing, and the strain gauge divides the housing into a first chamber and a second chamber. The first chamber communicates with the airbag, and the second chamber communicates with the outer cylinder. If the detection signal of the strain gauge is a first detection signal generated by the strain gauge driven by the first detection unit, then determining that the outer cylinder impacts the airbag includes: Obtain the air pressure in the first chamber within a set time period; If the air pressure in the first chamber changes within the set time period, it is determined that the first detection signal is generated by the strain element driven by the first detection unit. If the detection signal of the strain gauge is a second detection signal generated by the second detection unit driving the strain gauge, then the water level inside the outer cylinder is determined. The second detection signal is different from the first detection signal, including: Obtain the air pressure in the second chamber within a set time period; If the air pressure in the second chamber changes within the set time period, it is determined that the second detection unit drives the strain element to generate a second detection signal.

9. The detection method according to claim 7, characterized in that, Before acquiring the detection signal of the strain member, the detection method further includes: The washing stage of the washing machine is obtained, and the washing stage includes a water inlet / outlet stage and a spin-drying stage; During the water intake and drainage stage and the dehydration stage, the detection signals of the strain gauge are acquired respectively.

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