A water inlet control method for a top-loading washing machine

Abstract

The application provides a water inlet control method for an upper water drainage washing machine. The method comprises the following steps: in response to a water inlet instruction, controlling a water inlet valve to be in an open state for a first preset time period to inject water into a washing drum; detecting, by a water level sensor, whether a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water inlet; when it is detected by the water level sensor that the continuous siphon drainage phenomenon does not occur after water inlet, controlling the water inlet valve to be open until the water inlet valve is controlled to be closed when a water inlet stop condition is met, the water inlet stop condition comprising that a water level of washing water in the washing drum reaches a target set water level or a water inlet time length reaches a set water inlet time length threshold; and when it is detected by the water level sensor that the continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water inlet, controlling an alarm device to give an alarm. The water level sensor can detect whether the continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water inlet, so that water injection into the washing drum can be prevented while drainage, and water resource waste caused by the siphon drainage phenomenon can be avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of intelligent electrical appliance technology, and in particular to a water inlet control method for a top-drain washing machine. Background Technology

[0002] Top-loading washing machines typically use a non-sealed drain pump. To prevent water from overflowing from the inner drum, the drain pipe has an inverted U-shape design with a certain height (the highest point being higher than the water level in the inner drum). During drainage, when the drain pump stops working, if the end of the drain pipe seals to the drain outlet, preventing contact with the atmosphere, a negative pressure will be generated in the dry middle section of the drain pipe. This causes the water in the front and rear sections of the drain pipe to oscillate up and down under the suction of the negative pressure. If the water remaining in the drain pipe is not drained to the minimum water level, and after water enters, the water in the front section of the drain pipe oscillates up and down and just covers the top of the inverted U-shape, it will cause the water entering the washing drum to be abnormally discharged along the drain pipe. That is, the water in the drain pipe flows out past the top of the inverted U-shape, creating a siphon drainage phenomenon. In this case, if the siphon drainage phenomenon is not dealt with in time, the machine will need to be frequently refilled with water, wasting water resources and affecting the washing effect. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The main objective of this application is to propose a water inlet control method for a top-drain washing machine. This method can detect whether a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water is introduced through a water level sensor, thereby preventing water from being added to the washing drum while simultaneously draining water. This avoids water waste caused by siphon drainage and reduces the frequency of timeout alarms caused by siphon drainage.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, this application proposes a water inlet control method for a top-drain washing machine.

[0005] The top-drain washing machine includes:

[0006] A washing drum, a space used to store washing water;

[0007] The water inlet valve is used to control the entry of the washing water into the washing drum;

[0008] A water level sensor is used to detect the water level of the washing water in the washing drum;

[0009] An inverted U-shaped drain pipe is connected to the drain outlet of the washing drum. When the end of the inverted U-shaped drain pipe is in a sealed state, a siphon drainage phenomenon is generated.

[0010] An alarm device is used to issue an alarm when continuous siphon drainage is detected after water ingress;

[0011] The water inlet control method includes:

[0012] In response to a water inlet command, the water inlet valve is controlled to be open for a first preset time period to inject water into the washing drum;

[0013] The water level sensor is used to detect whether a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water enters the system.

[0014] When the water level sensor detects that there is no continuous siphon drainage after water enters, the water inlet valve is opened until the water inlet stop condition is met, at which point the water inlet valve is closed. The water inlet stop condition includes the water level in the washing tub reaching the target set water level or the water inlet duration reaching the set water inlet duration threshold.

[0015] When the water level sensor detects continuous siphon drainage after water inflow, it controls the alarm device to issue an alarm.

[0016] In some embodiments, detecting whether a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water inflow via the water level sensor includes:

[0017] The water level sensor is used to detect whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a second preset time period.

[0018] When the water level sensor detects a siphon drainage phenomenon within a second preset time period, the water level sensor also detects whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a third preset time period.

[0019] When the water level sensor detects a siphon drainage phenomenon within a third preset time period, it is determined that a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water inflow.

[0020] In some embodiments, detecting whether siphon drainage occurs within a second preset time period using the water level sensor includes:

[0021] The first change value is obtained by the water level sensor. The first change value is the change value of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum within a second preset time period.

[0022] When the first change value exceeds the first preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period;

[0023] If the first change value does not exceed the first preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurred within the second preset time period.

[0024] In some embodiments, obtaining the first change value through the water level sensor includes:

[0025] The maximum and minimum water level frequency values ​​within the second preset time period are obtained through the water level sensor.

[0026] Subtracting the minimum water level frequency value from the maximum water level frequency value yields the first change value;

[0027] or;

[0028] The water level sensor obtains a first water level frequency value and a second water level frequency value. The first water level frequency value is the water level frequency value corresponding to the start time of the second preset time period, and the second water level frequency value is the water level frequency value corresponding to the end time of the second preset time period.

[0029] The first change value is obtained based on the first water level frequency value and the second water level frequency value.

[0030] In some embodiments, detecting whether siphon drainage occurs within a second preset time period using the water level sensor includes:

[0031] The first rate of change value is obtained by the water level sensor. The first rate of change value is the rate of change of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum per unit time within a second preset time period.

[0032] When the first rate of change exceeds the second preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period;

[0033] When the first rate of change does not exceed the second preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within the second preset time period.

[0034] In some embodiments, obtaining the first rate of change value through the water level sensor includes:

[0035] The first change value is obtained by the water level sensor. The first change value is the change value of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum within a second preset time period.

[0036] The first rate of change value is obtained based on the first change value and the second preset time period.

[0037] In some embodiments, the step of detecting whether siphon drainage occurs within a third preset time period after the water level sensor detects siphon drainage within a second preset time period includes:

[0038] When the water level sensor detects a siphon drainage phenomenon within a second preset time period, a second change value is obtained. The second change value is the change value of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum within a third preset time period.

[0039] When the second change value exceeds the third preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period;

[0040] When the second change value does not exceed the third preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period.

[0041] In some embodiments, the step of detecting whether siphon drainage occurs within a third preset time period after the water level sensor detects siphon drainage within a second preset time period includes:

[0042] When the water level sensor detects a siphon drainage phenomenon within a second preset time period, a second rate of change value is obtained. The second rate of change value is the change in the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum per unit time within a third preset time period.

[0043] When the second rate of change exceeds the fourth preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period.

[0044] When the second rate of change does not exceed the fourth preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period.

[0045] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0046] When the water level sensor detects that no siphon drainage occurs within the second preset time period or the third preset time period, it is determined that no continuous siphon drainage occurs after water is introduced.

[0047] The inlet valve is opened until the inlet water stop condition is met, at which point the inlet valve is closed.

[0048] In some embodiments, after the water level sensor detects continuous siphon drainage following water ingress, and the alarm device issues an alarm, the method further includes:

[0049] To address the siphon drainage phenomenon;

[0050] After processing, the system returns in response to the water inlet command, controlling the water inlet valve to remain open for a first preset time period to inject water into the washing drum.

[0051] This application proposes a water inlet control method for a top-drain washing machine. The method includes: responding to a water inlet command, controlling the water inlet valve to be open for a first preset time period to inject water into the washing drum; detecting whether continuous siphon drainage occurs after water inlet using a water level sensor; when the water level sensor detects no continuous siphon drainage after water inlet, controlling the water inlet valve to open until a water inlet stop condition is met, controlling the water inlet valve to close, the water inlet stop condition including the water level in the washing drum reaching a target set water level or the water inlet duration reaching a set water inlet duration threshold; when the water level sensor detects continuous siphon drainage after water inlet, controlling an alarm device to issue an alarm. The water level sensor can detect whether continuous siphon drainage occurs after water inlet, and when continuous siphon drainage is detected, it can control the alarm device to issue an alarm, thereby preventing water from being injected into the washing drum while simultaneously draining water, avoiding water waste caused by siphon drainage, and reducing frequent timeout alarms caused by siphon drainage. Attached Figure Description

[0052] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a top-drain washing machine for performing a water inlet control method, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0053] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control method for a top-drain washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 3 This is another flowchart of the water inlet control method for a top-drain washing machine provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0055] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the steps for detecting whether a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water enters the system using a water level sensor, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0056] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the steps for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a second preset time period using a water level sensor, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0057] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of obtaining a first change value using a water level sensor, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0058] Figure 7 This is another flowchart provided in this application embodiment for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a second preset time period using a water level sensor;

[0059] Figure 8 This is another step flowchart provided in the embodiments of this application for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a second preset time period using a water level sensor;

[0060] Figure 9 This is another flowchart provided in this application embodiment for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a second preset time period using a water level sensor;

[0061] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of the steps for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a third preset time period using a water level sensor, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0062] Figure 11 This is another flowchart provided in this application embodiment for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a third preset time period using a water level sensor;

[0063] Figure 12 This is another step in the process of detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a third preset time period using a water level sensor, as provided in this application embodiment.

[0064] Figure 13 This is another flowchart provided in this application embodiment for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a third preset time period using a water level sensor;

[0065] Figure 14 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control for a top-drain washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0066] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0067] It should be noted that although functional modules are divided in the device schematic diagram and a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases, the steps shown or described may be performed in a different order than the module division in the device or the order in the flowchart. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and the aforementioned drawings are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence.

[0068] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this application only and is not intended to limit this application.

[0069] Depending on the drainage method, washing machines are generally divided into top-drain washing machines and bottom-drain washing machines. In comparison, top-drain washing machines have lower requirements for the installation environment, and therefore are widely favored by users.

[0070] Top-loading washing machines typically use a non-sealed drain pump. To prevent water from overflowing from the inner drum, the drain pipe has an inverted U-shape design with a certain height (the highest point being higher than the water level in the inner drum). During drainage, when the drain pump stops working, if the end of the drain pipe seals to the drain outlet, preventing contact with the atmosphere, a negative pressure will be generated in the dry middle section of the drain pipe. This causes the water in the front and rear sections of the drain pipe to oscillate up and down under the suction of the negative pressure. If the water remaining in the drain pipe is not drained to the minimum water level, and after water enters, the water in the front section of the drain pipe oscillates up and down and just covers the top of the inverted U-shaped drain pipe, it will cause the water entering the washing drum to be abnormally discharged along the drain pipe. That is, the water in the drain pipe flows out over the top of the inverted U-shaped structure, creating a siphon drainage phenomenon.

[0071] Siphon drainage is caused by the attraction between liquid molecules and potential energy. It utilizes the pressure difference of the water column to cause water to rise and then flow to a lower level. Because the water surface at the pipe opening experiences approximately the same atmospheric pressure, the side with the shorter water column has a higher combined pressure, while the side with the higher water column has a lower combined pressure. Water will flow from the side with higher combined pressure to the side with lower combined pressure until the combined pressures on both sides are equal. When the end of the inverted U-shaped drain pipe is sealed, i.e., not connected to the atmosphere, water in the washing drum will flow out along the drain pipe, thus creating the siphon drainage phenomenon.

[0072] If a siphon effect occurs during the water intake process, the washing machine will need to replenish water frequently, wasting water resources. Furthermore, the inability to complete the water intake on time will frequently trigger water intake timeout alarms, requiring users to check and handle the situation frequently, thus affecting the user experience of top-drain washing machines.

[0073] Based on this, this application proposes a water inlet control method for a top-drain washing machine. It can detect whether continuous siphon drainage occurs after water is introduced using a water level sensor, preventing water from being added to the washing drum while simultaneously draining, thus avoiding water waste caused by siphon drainage and reducing frequent timeout alarms caused by siphon drainage.

[0074] First, a top-drain washing machine that implements the water inlet control method proposed in the embodiments of this application will be described. (Refer to...) Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a top-drain washing machine for implementing a water inlet control method, as provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the top-loading washing machine includes:

[0075] Washing drum 100 is a space for storing washing water;

[0076] Water inlet valve 110 is used to control the entry of washing water into the washing drum;

[0077] Water level sensor 120 is used to detect the water level of the washing water in the washing drum;

[0078] The inverted U-shaped drain pipe 130 is connected to the drain outlet of the washing drum 100. When the end of the inverted U-shaped drain pipe 130 is in a sealed state, a siphon drainage phenomenon is generated.

[0079] Alarm device 140 is used to issue an alarm when continuous siphon drainage is detected after water ingress;

[0080] In this embodiment, after the top-loading washing machine is started, water intake control can be performed through water intake processing logic when water intake is needed, and drainage control logic can be performed through drainage control logic when drainage is needed. When the start button of the top-loading washing machine is triggered, the system will issue a water intake command. At this time, the water intake valve will open in response to the water intake command, allowing water from the faucet to flow into the washing drum along the water intake pipe. After washing is completed, the system will issue a drainage command, and the drain pump will start working, allowing the water in the washing drum to be discharged through the inverted U-shaped drain pipe.

[0081] Understandable, Figure 1 This only illustrates the hardware structure required for the water inlet control logic of a top-loading washing machine. Besides this, top-loading washing machines also include other hardware, such as the washing machine casing and drain pump. This application does not limit the specific components of the top-loading washing machine, nor the specific morphological features, relative positions, or connection methods between these components. However, to implement the water inlet control method proposed in this application, the top-loading washing machine must include components such as a washing drum 100, a water inlet valve 110, a water level sensor 120, an inverted U-shaped drain pipe 130, and an alarm device 140.

[0082] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control method for a top-drain washing machine provided in the embodiments of this application; including but not limited to steps S201 to S204.

[0083] In step S201, in response to the water inlet command, the water inlet valve is controlled to be open for a first preset time period to inject water into the washing drum.

[0084] In this embodiment, the top-drain washing machine system responds to a water inlet command by controlling the water inlet valve to remain open for a first preset time period to inject water into the washing drum. For example, if the first preset time period is set to 5 seconds, the water inlet valve will remain open for 5 seconds, thereby injecting a certain amount of water into the washing drum.

[0085] Step S202: Detect whether a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water enters the system using a water level sensor.

[0086] In this embodiment, the water level sensor can detect the water level in the washing tub in real time. Specifically, the water level sensor determines the water level in the washing tub based on the air pressure in the water pressure pipe connected to the inside of the washing tub. The higher the water level, the greater the water pressure, which in turn leads to a greater inductance in the inductor coil of the sensor. Then, according to the formula for the parallel resonant frequency of inductance and capacitance: The lower the resonant frequency, the lower the water level and the lower the water pressure, resulting in a smaller inductance in the sensor's coil and a higher resonant frequency. The generated resonant frequency is then processed by a microcontroller to determine the water level. By detecting changes in the water level in the washing tub, it can be determined whether a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water intake. For example, if the water level in the washing tub decreases within a period T1, it can be confirmed that water is being discharged from the drain pipe after water intake, thus confirming a siphon drainage phenomenon. If the water level in the washing tub continues to decrease within a period T2, it can be confirmed that a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred. Conversely, if the water level in the washing tub does not decrease within a period T1, it can be confirmed that no siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred after water intake.

[0087] It should be noted that the water level sensor obtains the water level frequency value. The higher the water level frequency value, the lower the water level in the washing drum; the lower the water level frequency value, the higher the water level in the washing drum.

[0088] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, the water level sensor can be an electromagnetic water level sensor or a mechanical water level sensor. The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit the water level sensor, as long as it can obtain the frequency value of the water level in the washing tub in real time.

[0089] Step S203: When the water level sensor detects that there is no continuous siphon drainage after water intake, the water inlet valve is opened until the water intake stop condition is met, at which point the water inlet valve is closed. The water intake stop condition includes the water level in the washing drum reaching the target set water level or the water intake time reaching the set water intake time threshold.

[0090] In this embodiment, since the water level sensor can acquire the real-time water level changes in the washing tub, it can determine whether a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water is introduced. When no continuous siphon drainage phenomenon is detected, the water inlet valve can be opened to continue adding water to the washing tub until the water level in the washing tub reaches the target set water level or the water introduction time reaches the set water introduction time threshold, at which point the water inlet valve is closed.

[0091] Step S204: When the water level sensor detects continuous siphon drainage after water inflow, the alarm device is controlled to issue an alarm.

[0092] In this embodiment, when the water level sensor detects continuous siphon drainage after water intake, the alarm device sounds an alarm to alert the user. At this time, the user can pause the washing machine, remove the drain hose from the drain pipe to allow air to pass through the end of the hose, then insert it back into the drain pipe and start the washing machine to continue washing. Alternatively, after pausing the washing machine, the user can clear any blockages in the drain pipe or sewer, then insert the drain hose back into the drain pipe and start the washing machine to continue washing.

[0093] In this embodiment, when the water level sensor detects continuous siphon drainage after water inlet, the siphon drainage needs to be addressed. After the address is resolved, the process returns to step S201, where the water inlet valve is kept open for 5 seconds to allow a certain amount of water to enter the washing drum. The water level sensor then continues to detect whether continuous siphon drainage persists after water inlet. If continuous siphon drainage continues, it indicates that the addressing of the siphon drainage issue is ineffective. In this case, the washing machine is paused, and other causes of the siphon drainage are investigated. If continuous siphon drainage does not occur, it indicates that the addressing of the siphon drainage issue is effective, and the washing machine continues to operate.

[0094] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is another flowchart of the water inlet control method for a top-drain washing machine provided in the embodiments of this application, including but not limited to steps S301 to S309.

[0095] Step S301: In response to the water inlet command, open the water inlet valve;

[0096] Step S302: Determine whether the water inlet time has reached the preset time.

[0097] Step S303: If the water inlet time reaches the preset time, close the water inlet valve;

[0098] Step S304: Determine whether a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs;

[0099] Step S305: If a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs, the alarm control device will issue an alarm.

[0100] Step S306: If there is no continuous siphon drainage phenomenon, open the water inlet valve;

[0101] Step S307: Determine whether the water level in the washing drum has reached the target set water level;

[0102] Step S308, or determine whether the water inlet time has reached the set water inlet time threshold;

[0103] Step S309: If the target water level or the set water inlet duration threshold is reached, close the water inlet valve.

[0104] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the steps for detecting whether a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water enters the system using a water level sensor, as provided in the embodiments of this application, including but not limited to steps S401 to S403.

[0105] Step S401: Detect whether siphon drainage occurs within the second preset time period using a water level sensor.

[0106] In this embodiment, a water level sensor can be used to detect whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a second preset time period. For example, if the second preset time is set to T2, the water level sensor can detect the water level frequency value at any time within the T2 time period. Then, based on the detected water level frequency value, it can be determined whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the T2 time period.

[0107] Reference Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the steps for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a second preset time period using a water level sensor, provided in an embodiment of this application, including but not limited to steps S501 to S503.

[0108] Step S501: Obtain a first change value through a water level sensor. The first change value is the change value of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum within a second preset time period.

[0109] Step S502: When the first change value exceeds the first preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period.

[0110] Step S503: When the first change value does not exceed the first preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period.

[0111] In this embodiment, a first change value can be obtained through a water level sensor. The first change value is the change in the frequency value of the water level in the washing water in the washing drum within a second preset time period. Then, the first change value is compared with a first preset threshold. If the first change value exceeds the first preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within the second preset time period; if the first change value does not exceed the first preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within the second preset time period.

[0112] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, considering that after water enters, some water will flow into the front part of the drain pipe, but will not exceed the top of the inverted U-shaped structure of the drain pipe. Therefore, it will not be discharged from the drain pipe. However, the partial flow of water into the front part of the drain pipe will cause the water level in the washing tub to drop. Therefore, it is inaccurate to determine that water is being discharged from the drain pipe and a siphon phenomenon has occurred simply by judging that the water level in the washing tub has dropped. This embodiment of the application can accurately determine whether a siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within a second preset time period after water enters by pre-determining a threshold, namely the first preset threshold. That is to say, the water level in the washing tub must not only drop, but the drop value, i.e., the first change value, must also exceed the first preset threshold to determine that a siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within the second preset time period after water enters. Conversely, if the drop value, i.e., the first change value, does not exceed the first preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within the second preset time period after water enters.

[0113] It is understood that in the embodiments of this application, if the water level in the washing tub does not drop, i.e., the first change value is 0, it means that no water enters the drain pipe after water is introduced, and therefore the siphon phenomenon is even less likely to occur.

[0114] It is understood that in this embodiment of the application, if the water level sensor determines that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period, the water inlet valve is opened until the water inlet stop condition is met and the water inlet valve is closed.

[0115] Reference Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the steps for obtaining a first change value through a water level sensor provided in the embodiments of this application, including but not limited to steps S601 to S604.

[0116] Step S601: Obtain the maximum and minimum water level frequency values ​​within the second preset time period using a water level sensor.

[0117] Step S602: Subtract the minimum water level frequency value from the maximum water level frequency value to obtain the first change value;

[0118] or;

[0119] Step S603: Obtain a first water level frequency value and a second water level frequency value through a water level sensor. The first water level frequency value is the water level frequency value corresponding to the start time of the second preset time period, and the second water level frequency value is the water level frequency value corresponding to the end time of the second preset time period.

[0120] Step S604: Obtain the first change value based on the first water level frequency value and the second water level frequency value.

[0121] In this embodiment, the water level sensor can acquire the water level frequency value at any time within the second preset time period T2. Considering that the washing tub is directly connected to the drain pipe, meaning some water in the washing tub can flow into the drain pipe, the water level in the washing tub fluctuates after water enters. Therefore, the maximum and minimum water level frequency values ​​can be acquired through the water level sensor. Specifically, the maximum and minimum water level frequency values ​​are selected from the second preset time period T2, and then the minimum water level frequency value is subtracted from the maximum water level frequency value to obtain the first change value.

[0122] Furthermore, in this embodiment, considering that although the water level in the washing tub fluctuates after water intake, the fluctuation is not significant, a first water level frequency value and a second water level frequency value can be obtained using a water level sensor. The first water level frequency value is the water level frequency value corresponding to the start time of the second preset time period, and the second water level frequency value is the water level frequency value corresponding to the end time of the second preset time period. Then, based on the first and second water level frequency values, a first change value is obtained. For example, if the start time of the second time period T2 is t0 and the end time is t1, i.e., t1 - t0 = T2, then by obtaining the water level frequency value corresponding to time t0 and the water level frequency value corresponding to time t1, and then subtracting the water level frequency value corresponding to time t0 from the water level frequency value at time t1, the first change value can be obtained.

[0123] Reference Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is another flowchart provided in the embodiments of this application for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a second preset time period using a water level sensor, including but not limited to steps S701 to S707.

[0124] Step S701: Obtain the maximum water level frequency value and the minimum water level frequency value through the water level sensor;

[0125] Step S702: Obtain the first change value based on the maximum water level frequency value and the minimum water level frequency value;

[0126] Step S703, or, obtain the first water level frequency value and the second water level frequency value through the water level sensor;

[0127] Step S704: Obtain the first change value based on the first water level frequency value and the second water level frequency value;

[0128] Step S705: Determine whether the first change value is greater than the first preset threshold;

[0129] Step S706: If the first change value is greater than the first preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period.

[0130] Step S707: If the first change value is not greater than the first preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurred within the second preset time period.

[0131] Reference Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is another step flowchart provided in the embodiments of this application for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a second preset time period using a water level sensor, including but not limited to steps S801 to S803.

[0132] Step S801: Obtain a first rate of change value through a water level sensor. The first rate of change value is the rate of change of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum per unit time within a second preset time period.

[0133] Step S802: When the first rate of change value exceeds the second preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period.

[0134] Step S803: When the first rate of change value does not exceed the second preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period.

[0135] In this embodiment, besides comparing the first change value with the first preset threshold to determine whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period, a comparison can also be made between the first change rate value and the second preset threshold to determine whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period. Specifically, the first change rate value is first obtained through a water level sensor. The first change rate value is the rate of change of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum per unit time within the second preset time period, which is the water level drop rate. When the first change rate value exceeds the second preset threshold, i.e., the water level drop rate exceeds the second preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period; when the first change rate value does not exceed the second preset threshold, i.e., the water level drop rate does not exceed the second preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period.

[0136] In this embodiment of the application, because Figure 6 The specific process for obtaining the first change value has already been shown; therefore, it is only necessary to... Figure 6 Based on this, that is, after obtaining the first change value through the water level sensor, the first rate of change value can be obtained according to the first change value and the second preset time period. Specifically, dividing the first change value by the second preset time period yields the water level drop rate (first rate of change value).

[0137] Reference Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is another flowchart provided in the embodiments of this application for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a second preset time period using a water level sensor, including but not limited to steps S901 to S908.

[0138] Step S901: Obtain the maximum water level frequency value and the minimum water level frequency value through the water level sensor;

[0139] Step S902: Obtain the first change value based on the maximum water level frequency value and the minimum water level frequency value;

[0140] Step S903, or, obtain the first water level frequency value and the second water level frequency value through the water level sensor;

[0141] Step S904: Obtain the first change value based on the first water level frequency value and the second water level frequency value;

[0142] Step S905: Obtain the first rate of change value based on the first change value and the second preset time period;

[0143] Step S906: Determine whether the first rate of change value is greater than the second preset threshold;

[0144] Step S907: If the first rate of change value is greater than the second preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period.

[0145] Step S908: If the first rate of change value is not greater than the second preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurred within the second preset time period.

[0146] Step S402: When the water level sensor detects that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period, the water level sensor is then used to detect whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period.

[0147] In this embodiment of the application, when the water level sensor detects that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period, it is considered that the reasons for the siphon drainage phenomenon within the second preset time period include two types: (1) the end of the drain pipe is not connected to the air, and the top middle section of the drain pipe without water generates negative pressure, causing some water in the washing drum to enter the exhaust pipe and flow out over the top of the inverted U-shaped structure; (2) during the water inlet process, the water swings up and down as it falls from the inlet (high place) into the washing drum (low place), causing some water to enter the exhaust pipe and flow out over the top of the inverted U-shaped structure.

[0148] In this embodiment of the application, in order to further clarify the reason for the siphon drainage phenomenon occurring in the second preset time period, it is necessary to further detect whether the siphon drainage phenomenon occurs in the third preset time period by using a water level sensor.

[0149] Reference Figure 10 , Figure 10This is a flowchart of the steps for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a third preset time period using a water level sensor, provided in an embodiment of this application, including but not limited to steps S1001 to S1003.

[0150] Step S1001: Obtain the second change value, which is the change value of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum within the third preset time period.

[0151] Step S1002: When the second change value exceeds the third preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period.

[0152] Step S1003: When the second change value does not exceed the third preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within the third preset time period.

[0153] In this embodiment, a second change value can be obtained through a water level sensor. The second change value is the change in the frequency value of the water level in the washing water in the washing drum within a third preset time period. Then, the second change value is compared with a third preset threshold. If the second change value exceeds the third preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within the third preset time period; if the second change value does not exceed the third preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within the third preset time period.

[0154] It should be noted that, in the application embodiment, if the water level sensor detects a siphon drainage phenomenon within a second preset time period, and further confirms that a siphon drainage phenomenon also occurs within a third preset time period, then it can be determined that a continuous siphon phenomenon occurs after water intake. In this case, it can be determined that the siphon drainage phenomenon occurring within the second preset time period is due to the drain pipe not being connected to air at the end, creating negative pressure in the top middle section of the drain pipe where there is no water, causing some water in the washing drum to enter the exhaust pipe and flow out over the top of the inverted U-shaped structure. Conversely, if the water level sensor confirms that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period, then it can be determined that a continuous siphon phenomenon does not occur after water intake. In this case, it can be determined that the siphon drainage phenomenon occurring within the second preset time period is due to the water oscillating up and down as it falls from the inlet (higher position) into the washing drum (lower position) during the water intake process, causing some water to enter the exhaust pipe and flow out over the top of the inverted U-shaped structure.

[0155] It is understood that in this embodiment of the application, if the water level sensor determines that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period, the water inlet valve is opened until the water inlet stop condition is met and the water inlet valve is closed.

[0156] It should be noted that, in this embodiment of the application, the process of obtaining the second change value through the water level sensor is similar to... Figure 6 The process of obtaining the first change value through the water level sensor is the same as shown, and will not be repeated here.

[0157] Reference Figure 11 , Figure 11 This is another flowchart provided in the embodiments of this application for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a third preset time period using a water level sensor, including but not limited to steps S1101 to S1107.

[0158] Step S1101: Obtain the maximum and minimum water level frequency values ​​using a water level sensor;

[0159] Step S1102: Obtain the second change value based on the maximum water level frequency value and the minimum water level frequency value;

[0160] Step S1103, or, obtain the third water level frequency value and the fourth water level frequency value through the water level sensor, wherein the third water level frequency value is the water level frequency value corresponding to the start time of the third preset time period, and the fourth water level frequency value is the water level frequency value corresponding to the end time of the third preset time period.

[0161] Step S1104: Obtain the second change value based on the third water level frequency value and the fourth water level frequency value;

[0162] Step S1105: Determine whether the second change value is greater than the third preset threshold;

[0163] Step S1106: If the second change value is greater than the third preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period.

[0164] Step S1107: If the second change value is not greater than the third preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within the third preset time period.

[0165] Reference Figure 12 , Figure 12 This is another flowchart of the step provided in the embodiment of this application for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a third preset time period by a water level sensor, including but not limited to steps S1201 to S1203.

[0166] Step S1201: Obtain the second rate of change value. The second rate of change value is the change in the frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum per unit time within the third preset time period.

[0167] Step S1202: When the second rate of change value exceeds the fourth preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period.

[0168] Step S1203: When the second rate of change value does not exceed the fourth preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within the third preset time period.

[0169] In this embodiment, besides comparing the second change value with a third preset threshold to determine whether siphon drainage occurs within a third preset time period, the second rate of change value can also be compared with a fourth preset threshold to determine whether siphon drainage occurs within the third preset time period. Specifically, the second rate of change value is first obtained through a water level sensor. The second rate of change value is the rate of change of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum per unit time within the third preset time period, which is the water level drop rate. When the second rate of change value exceeds the fourth preset threshold, that is, when the water level drop rate exceeds the fourth preset threshold, it is determined that siphon drainage occurs within the third preset time period; when the second rate of change value does not exceed the fourth preset threshold, that is, when the water level drop rate does not exceed the fourth preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage occurs within the third preset time period.

[0170] In this embodiment of the application, similarly, after obtaining the second change value through the water level sensor, the second change rate value can be obtained based on the second change value and the third preset time period. Specifically, dividing the second change value by the third preset time period yields the water level drop rate (the second change rate value).

[0171] Reference Figure 13 , Figure 13 This is another flowchart provided in the embodiments of this application for detecting whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within a third preset time period using a water level sensor, including but not limited to steps S1301 to S1308.

[0172] Step S1301: Obtain the maximum and minimum water level frequency values ​​using a water level sensor;

[0173] Step S1302: Obtain the second change value based on the maximum water level frequency value and the minimum water level frequency value;

[0174] Step S1303, or, obtain the third water level frequency value and the fourth water level frequency value through the water level sensor, wherein the third water level frequency value is the water level frequency value corresponding to the start time of the third preset time period, and the fourth water level frequency value is the water level frequency value corresponding to the end time of the third preset time period.

[0175] Step S1304: Obtain the second change value based on the third water level frequency value and the fourth water level frequency value;

[0176] Step S1305: Obtain the second rate of change value based on the second change value and the third preset time period;

[0177] Step S1306: Determine whether the second rate of change value is greater than the fourth preset threshold;

[0178] Step S1307: If the second rate of change value is greater than the fourth preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period.

[0179] Step S1308: If the second rate of change value is not greater than the fourth preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within the third preset time period.

[0180] Step S403: When the water level sensor detects a siphon drainage phenomenon within a third preset time period, it is determined that a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water inflow.

[0181] In this embodiment of the application, if a siphon drainage phenomenon is detected by the water level sensor within a second preset time period, and a siphon drainage phenomenon is also detected by the water level sensor within a third preset time period, then it can be determined that a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water enters.

[0182] Reference Figure 14 , Figure 14 This is a flowchart of the water inlet control for a top-drain washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application, including the following steps:

[0183] Step S1401: In response to the water inlet command, open the water inlet valve;

[0184] Step S1402: Determine whether the water inlet time has reached the preset time.

[0185] Step S1403: If the water inlet time reaches the preset time, close the water inlet valve;

[0186] Step S1404: Obtain the first change value within the second preset time period using a water level sensor;

[0187] Step S1405: Determine whether the first change value is greater than the first preset threshold;

[0188] Step S1406, or obtain the first rate of change value within the second preset time period through a water level sensor;

[0189] Step S1407: Determine whether the first rate of change value is greater than the second preset threshold;

[0190] Step S1408: If the first change value is greater than the first preset threshold, or the first change rate value is greater than the second preset threshold, the second change value within the third preset time period is obtained through the water level sensor.

[0191] Step S1409: Determine whether the second change value is greater than the third preset threshold;

[0192] Step S1410, or obtain the second rate of change value within the third preset time period through a water level sensor;

[0193] Step S1411: Determine whether the second rate of change value is greater than the fourth preset threshold;

[0194] Step S1412: If the second change value is greater than the third preset threshold, or the second change rate value is greater than the fourth preset threshold, control the alarm device to issue an alarm.

[0195] Step S1413: If the first change value is not greater than the first preset threshold, or the first change rate value is not greater than the second preset threshold; or the second change value is not greater than the third preset threshold, or the second change rate value is not greater than the fourth preset threshold, open the water inlet valve;

[0196] Step S1414: Determine whether the water level in the washing tub has reached the target set water level;

[0197] Step S1415, or determine whether the water inlet time has reached the set water inlet time threshold;

[0198] Step S1416: If the target water level or the set water inlet duration threshold is reached, close the water inlet valve.

[0199] It is understood that in the embodiments of this application, the first preset time period, the second preset time period, the third preset time period, the first preset threshold, the second preset threshold, the third preset threshold and the fourth preset threshold can all be determined according to the different structures of the top-drain washing machine and prior knowledge. The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit the first preset time period, the second preset time period, the third preset time period, the first preset threshold, the second preset threshold, the third preset threshold and the fourth preset threshold.

[0200] The embodiments described in this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of technology and the emergence of new application scenarios, the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0201] Those skilled in the art will understand that the technical solutions shown in the figures do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this application, and may include more or fewer steps than shown, or combine certain steps, or different steps.

[0202] The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0203] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or some of the steps in the methods disclosed above, as well as the functional modules / units in the systems and devices, can be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, or suitable combinations thereof.

[0204] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. (if present) in the specification and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0205] It should be understood that in this application, "at least one (item)" means one or more, and "more than" means two or more. "And / or" is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent three cases: only A exists, only B exists, and both A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0206] The preferred embodiments of the present application have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but this does not limit the scope of the claims of the present application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and substance of the embodiments of the present application shall be within the scope of the claims of the present application.

Claims

1. A water inlet control method for a top-drain washing machine, characterized in that: The top-drain washing machine includes: A washing drum, a space used to store washing water; A water inlet valve is used to control the flow of washing water into the washing drum; A water level sensor is used to detect the water level of the washing water in the washing drum; An inverted U-shaped drain pipe is connected to the drain outlet of the washing drum. When the end of the inverted U-shaped drain pipe is in a sealed state, a siphon drainage phenomenon is generated. An alarm device is used to issue an alarm when continuous siphon drainage is detected after water ingress; The water inlet control method includes: In response to a water inlet command, the water inlet valve is controlled to be open for a first preset time period and closed after the first preset time period ends, so as to inject water into the washing drum; The water level sensor acquires the change value of the water level frequency value or the rate of change of the water level frequency value per unit time in the washing water in the washing drum during the second preset time period, so as to detect whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs during the second preset time period. When a siphon drainage phenomenon is detected during the second preset time period, the water level sensor obtains the change value of the water level frequency value or the rate of change of the water level frequency value per unit time of the washing water in the washing drum during the third preset time period, so as to detect whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs during the third preset time period. When a siphon drainage phenomenon is detected during the third preset time period, and it is determined that a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon occurs after water ingress, the alarm device is controlled to issue an alarm. When the water level sensor detects that no siphon drainage occurs within the second preset time period or the third preset time period, and it is determined that no continuous siphon drainage occurs after water intake, the water intake valve is controlled to open again until the water intake stop condition is met, at which point the water intake valve is controlled to close. The water intake stop condition includes the water level in the washing tub reaching the target set water level or the water intake duration reaching the set water intake duration threshold.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water level sensor acquires the frequency change value of the washing water level in the washing drum within a second preset time period to detect whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period, including: The water level sensor obtains a first change value, which is the change value of the frequency value of the water level in the washing water in the washing drum during the second preset time period. When the first change value exceeds the first preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period; If the first change value does not exceed the first preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurred within the second preset time period.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the first change value through the water level sensor includes: The maximum and minimum water level frequency values ​​within the second preset time period are obtained through the water level sensor. Subtracting the minimum water level frequency value from the maximum water level frequency value yields the first change value; or; The water level sensor acquires a first water level frequency value and a second water level frequency value. The first water level frequency value is the water level frequency value corresponding to the start time of the second preset time period, and the second water level frequency value is the water level frequency value corresponding to the end time of the second preset time period. The first change value is obtained based on the first water level frequency value and the second water level frequency value.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water level sensor acquires the rate of change of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum within a second preset time period, in order to detect whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period, including: The first rate of change value is obtained by the water level sensor. The first rate of change value is the rate of change of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum per unit time within a second preset time period. When the first rate of change exceeds the second preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the second preset time period; When the first rate of change does not exceed the second preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within the second preset time period.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, Obtaining the first rate of change value through the water level sensor includes: The water level sensor obtains a first change value, which is the change value of the frequency value of the water level in the washing water in the washing drum during the second preset time period. The first rate of change value is obtained based on the first change value and the second preset time period.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When a siphon drainage phenomenon is detected within the second preset time period, the water level sensor acquires the change value of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum within a third preset time period to detect whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period, including: When the water level sensor detects a siphon drainage phenomenon within the second preset time period, a second change value is obtained. The second change value is the change value of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum within the third preset time period. When the second change value exceeds the third preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred within the third preset time period. When the second change value does not exceed the third preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When a siphon drainage phenomenon is detected within the second preset time period, the water level sensor acquires the rate of change of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum within a third preset time period to detect whether a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period, including: When the water level sensor detects a siphon drainage phenomenon within the second preset time period, a second rate of change value is obtained. The second rate of change value is the change value of the water level frequency value of the washing water in the washing drum per unit time within the third preset time period. When the second rate of change exceeds the fourth preset threshold, it is determined that a siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period. When the second rate of change does not exceed the fourth preset threshold, it is determined that no siphon drainage phenomenon occurs within the third preset time period.

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When a siphon drainage phenomenon is detected within the third preset time period, and it is determined that a continuous siphon drainage phenomenon has occurred after water ingress, the method further includes, after controlling the alarm device to issue an alarm: To address the siphon drainage phenomenon; After processing, the system returns in response to the water inlet command, controlling the water inlet valve to remain open for a first preset time period to inject water into the washing drum.

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