Control method of a washing machine and washing machine
By detecting the relationship between the water level sensor frequency and the set frequency, the initial water intake of the washing machine is adjusted, solving the problem of inaccurate water intake control and improving washing effect and resource utilization efficiency.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- TCL HOME APPLIANCES (HEFEI) CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2022-11-24
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-12
AI Technical Summary
Existing washing machines do not have precise water intake control, resulting in poor washing performance, water waste, and increased electricity consumption.
By detecting the relationship between the water level frequency of the water level sensor and the set frequency, the initial water intake of the washing program is adjusted, and different adjustment methods are used to address water level sensor errors, thereby improving the accuracy of water intake control.
It improves the washing effect of clothes, reduces water waste and electricity consumption, and ensures uniform washing.
Smart Images

Figure CN115852631B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application belongs to the field of washing machine technology, and particularly relates to a control method for a washing machine and a washing machine. Background Technology
[0002] With the increasing popularity of green and environmentally friendly concepts, and the growing demand for efficient washing machine energy consumption and effective laundry cleaning, users have placed higher demands on the water usage of washing machines. Too much water can lead to water waste, increased motor power consumption, and poor washing results. Too little water results in uneven washing, leaving some areas uncleaned. Therefore, precise control of the water intake in the washing machine is particularly important.
[0003] However, existing washing machines do not have precise water intake control, resulting in poor washing performance of clothes. Summary of the Invention
[0004] This application provides a control method and a washing machine to improve the accuracy of water intake control, thereby improving the washing effect of clothes.
[0005] This application provides a method for controlling a washing machine, including:
[0006] Before filling the tub assembly of the washing machine with water, the water level frequency of the water level sensor corresponding to the current water level height in the tub assembly is detected.
[0007] Obtain a first set frequency, where the first set frequency is the critical frequency of the water level sensor that does not affect the error judgment of the water level sensor in the bucket assembly;
[0008] The initial water intake of the washing program is adjusted according to the water level frequency and the first set frequency.
[0009] Optionally, adjusting the initial water intake of the washing program based on the water level frequency and the first set frequency includes:
[0010] When the water level frequency is greater than or equal to the first set frequency, the initial water intake of the washing program is adjusted according to the first calibration formula;
[0011] When the water level frequency is less than the first set frequency, the initial water intake of the washing program is adjusted according to the second calibration formula, which is different from the first calibration formula.
[0012] Optionally, adjusting the initial water intake of the washing program according to the first calibration formula when the water level frequency is greater than or equal to the first set frequency includes:
[0013] The washing machine is equipped with the following: the weight of the clothes in the washing machine, the empty drum frequency of the water level sensor when the washing machine is empty, and the standard frequency of the water level sensor when the washing machine is running normally. The empty drum frequency is greater than the standard frequency.
[0014] Obtain the set inlet water volume corresponding to the weighing value;
[0015] The set water intake volume is adjusted according to the set water intake volume, the empty tank frequency, and the standard frequency using the first calibration formula to obtain the actual water intake volume.
[0016] Optionally, the first calibration formula is: WL1=WL0+(|FW3-FW0| / |F1-F2|)
[0017] *(FW3-FW0);
[0018] Wherein, WL1 is the actual water intake, WL0 is the set water intake, FW3 is the empty tank frequency, FW0 is the standard frequency, F1 is the upper limit frequency for error, and F2 is the lower limit frequency for error.
[0019] Optionally, when the water level frequency is less than the first set frequency, the initial water intake of the washing program is adjusted according to a second calibration formula, wherein the second calibration formula differs from the first calibration formula and includes:
[0020] Start the drainage pump to drain the water and obtain the drainage frequency after drainage.
[0021] The weight of the underwear in the washing machine and the standard frequency of the water level sensor corresponding to the normal operation of the washing machine are obtained.
[0022] Obtain the set inlet water volume corresponding to the weighing value;
[0023] The set water inlet volume is adjusted according to the set water inlet volume and the standard frequency using the second calibration formula to obtain the actual water inlet volume.
[0024] Optionally, the second calibration formula is: WL1=WL0+(|FW2-FW0| / |F1-F2|)
[0025] *(FW2-FW0);
[0026] Wherein, WL1 is the actual inflow volume, WL0 is the set inflow volume, FW2 is the drainage frequency, FW0 is the standard frequency, F1 is the upper limit frequency for error, and F2 is the lower limit frequency for error.
[0027] Optionally, starting the drainage pump to drain water and obtaining the drainage frequency after drainage includes:
[0028] Turn on the drain pump and drain for a first preset time. Then, detect the water level frequency after multiple drainages within a second preset time.
[0029] The drainage frequency is obtained by averaging the water level frequencies after multiple drainages.
[0030] Optionally, obtaining the set influent volume corresponding to the weighing value includes:
[0031] Obtain the material of the clothes inside the washing machine;
[0032] Select the corresponding set water intake from the mapping table according to the clothing material and the weight value. The mapping table includes multiple set clothing materials, each set clothing material corresponds to multiple preset weight ranges, and each preset weight range corresponds to a set water intake.
[0033] Optionally, before obtaining the weight value of the underwear in the washing machine, the control method further includes:
[0034] Obtain the clothing material and mapping table inside the washing machine. The mapping table includes multiple set clothing materials, each set clothing material corresponds to multiple preset weighing ranges, and each preset weighing range corresponds to a set water intake volume.
[0035] The step of obtaining the set influent volume corresponding to the weighing value includes:
[0036] Determine the preset weighing range into which the weighing value falls, and obtain the corresponding set water inflow.
[0037] This application embodiment also provides a washing machine, including:
[0038] A bucket assembly, wherein the bucket assembly is provided with a drain outlet;
[0039] A water level sensor is installed at the drain outlet;
[0040] A controller, electrically connected to the water level sensor, is configured to: detect the water level frequency of the water level sensor corresponding to the current water level height in the tub assembly before water is introduced into the tub assembly; obtain a first set frequency, wherein the first set frequency is the critical frequency of the water level sensor that does not affect the error judgment of the water level sensor when the water level height in the tub assembly is not affected; and adjust the initial water intake of the washing program according to the water level frequency and the first set frequency.
[0041] The washing machine control method and washing machine provided in this application embodiment determine the adjustment method of the initial water intake of the washing program by detecting the relationship between the real-time water level frequency and the first set frequency. The first set frequency represents whether the water level height in the washing machine will affect the judgment of the water level sensor error. Thus, different initial water intake adjustment methods are adopted when there is a lot of water and a little water in the washing machine, rather than using the same adjustment method for the initial water intake of the washing machine regardless of the situation. This can improve the control accuracy of the water intake of the washing machine, thereby improving the washing effect of clothes. Attached Figure Description
[0042] 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 accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0043] 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.
[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0045] Figure 2 A structural block diagram of a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0046] Figure 3 This is a first flowchart illustrating the control method for a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0047] Figure 4 This is a second flowchart illustrating the control method for a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation
[0048] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0049] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2This is a structural block diagram of a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application. This application provides a washing machine 1, which, according to different washing methods or washing principles, can be classified as a drum washing machine, a pulsator washing machine, an agitator washing machine, a jet washing machine, a spray washing machine, and a vibrating washing machine. This application uses a common drum washing machine as an example for illustration, and should not be construed as a limitation on the type of washing machine.
[0050] For example, the washing machine 1 includes a tub assembly 10, a water level sensor 20, and a controller 30. The tub assembly 10 includes an inner tub and an outer tub, with the outer tub fitted over the inner tub. The inner tub can rotate relative to the outer tub to rotate the clothes, thereby performing a washing process. A drain outlet 11 may be provided at the bottom of the outer tub of the tub assembly 10 to drain wastewater after washing. The washing machine 1 may also include a drain pump (not shown) for drawing water from the washing machine 1 and discharging it to the outside of the washing machine 1. It is understood that the drainage process of the washing machine 1 is carried out using the principle of negative pressure adsorption, gradually discharging wastewater to the outside of the washing machine 1 through negative pressure adsorption. The water level sensor 20 is located at the drain outlet 11 to detect the water level height inside the tub assembly 10. For example, the water level detection of the washing machine 1 is based on the air pressure in a water pressure pipe connected to the inside of the tub assembly 10. The higher the water level, the greater the water pressure, which in turn increases the inductance of the inductor coil in the water level sensor 20. Based on the parallel resonance formula for inductance and capacitance: The higher the water level, the lower the resonant frequency, and vice versa. The generated resonant frequency is then processed to determine the water level (the higher the water level frequency, the lower the water level, and vice versa).
[0051] It should be noted that since the drum assembly 10 of washing machine 1 has a fixed volume, the amount of water entering washing machine 1 is positively correlated with the water level inside washing machine 1. Therefore, the initial water intake of washing machine 1 for the corresponding washing program can be adjusted to meet the water needs of clothes of different weights. The water level also reflects the amount of water entering washing machine 1; therefore, the amount of water entering can be determined by detecting the water level. The water level of washing machine 1 is detected based on the air pressure in the water pressure pipe connected to the inside of the washing machine drum assembly.
[0052] The water level sensor 20 is located at the drain outlet 11. The water level sensor 20 operates by using the pressure generated by the high and low water levels in the washing machine tub assembly 10 to control the opening and closing of the contact switch. The water level sensor 20 is connected to the air chamber opening on the lower side of the tub assembly 10 via a plastic hose. When water is added to the tub assembly 10, as the water level rises, the air in the air chamber is compressed, and the pressure is transmitted to the water level sensor 20 via the plastic hose. As the air pressure gradually increases, the diaphragm inside the water level sensor 20 deforms and pushes the moving contact to separate from the normally closed contact. The normally closed contact and the common contact quickly disconnect, and the normally open contact and the common contact close, thereby sending a signal that the water level has reached the set value to the controller 30, or disconnecting the circuit connected to the inlet valve solenoid coil to stop water intake. When the washing machine 1 drains water, as the water level in the tub assembly 10 drops, the pressure in the air chamber and the plastic hose gradually decreases. When the gas pressure is less than the elastic restoring force of the spring, the normally open contact and the common contact quickly disconnect, and the normally closed contact and the common contact close, returning to the state to be detected.
[0053] It should be noted that during the use of the water level sensor, the diaphragm inside the sensor constantly deforms and recovers, which can cause the water level sensor to become insensitive and produce errors. As a result, the water level measured by the water level sensor will be inaccurate, leading to excessive water intake in the washing program, resulting in water waste, increased power consumption due to excessive motor output, and poor washing effect. Alternatively, it may lead to insufficient water intake in the washing program, resulting in poor washing uniformity and areas that cannot be cleaned.
[0054] To reduce the occurrence of the above problems, the control method of the washing machine has been improved in the embodiments of this application, which will be described from different perspectives below.
[0055] For example, the controller 30 is the control center or logic operation center of the washing machine 1. The controller 30 is electrically connected to the water level sensor 20. The controller 30 is used to: detect the water level frequency of the water level sensor 20 corresponding to the current water level height in the tub assembly 10 before washing; obtain a first set frequency, which is the critical frequency of the water level sensor that does not affect the error judgment of the water level sensor when the water level height in the tub assembly 10 is not affected; and adjust the initial water intake of the washing program according to the water level frequency and the first set frequency.
[0056] In the washing machine 1 provided in this application embodiment, the adjustment method of the initial water intake of the washing program is determined by detecting the relationship between the real-time water level frequency and the first set frequency. The first set frequency indicates whether the water level height in the washing machine 1 will affect the judgment of the error of the water level sensor 20. Thus, different initial water intake adjustment methods are adopted when there is a lot of water and a little water in the washing machine 1, rather than using the same adjustment method for the initial water intake of the washing machine 1 regardless of the situation. This can improve the control accuracy of the water intake of the washing machine 1, thereby improving the washing effect of clothes.
[0057] Of course, the operation of the controller 30 is not limited to the above situation. In order to more clearly explain the working process of the controller 30 in the embodiments of this application, the following will be explained from the perspective of the control method of the washing machine.
[0058] Please combine Figure 1 and Figure 2 And see Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a first flowchart illustrating the control method for a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application. The structural composition of the washing machine can be referred to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The above explanation will not be repeated here. The control methods for the washing machine include:
[0059] 101. Before filling the washing machine drum assembly with water, detect the water level frequency of the water level sensor corresponding to the current water level height inside the drum assembly.
[0060] When a user needs to wash clothes, they first need to select a washing program, such as quick wash, standard wash, wool wash, or four-piece wash. When a program like quick wash is selected, it has a preset initial water volume. However, due to potential errors in the water level sensor, the water level may be inaccurate when the initial water volume is used, leading to poor washing results. In existing technology, after the user selects a washing program, they are then prompted to manually select the initial water volume, or the program defaults to the initial water volume from the previous wash. However, this method may also fail to accurately assess the weight of the clothes, resulting in an initial water volume that doesn't match the amount of laundry; or the water volume from the previous wash may not be suitable for the current wash. These factors all contribute to inaccurate control of the washing machine's initial water volume, leading to poor washing results.
[0061] To reduce the impact of human factors, this application embodiment includes a method for automatically detecting and adjusting the initial water intake of the washing machine. During this automatic detection process, before the washing program begins, the water level sensor's readings are assessed and calibrated to improve the accuracy of water level control, thereby enhancing the washing effect on the clothes.
[0062] The system detects the current water level height inside the washing machine, corresponding to the water level frequency of the water level sensor. This frequency is compared with reference parameters to determine if the water level sensor has an error. If an error is found, it is corrected, and the initial water intake is adjusted. If no error is found, water can be added directly according to the initial intake volume for washing. Essentially, the water level frequency reflects the real-time water level height inside the drum assembly detected by the water level sensor.
[0063] 102. Obtain the first set frequency, which is the critical frequency of the water level sensor whose water level height in the tank assembly does not affect the error judgment of the water level sensor.
[0064] After one wash cycle ends and before the next wash begins, water inevitably remains at the bottom of the drum assembly due to the negative pressure suction principle used by the drain pump. During this process, if the water level sensor malfunctions or if the previous wash wasn't completely drained, the water level will be high. When drainage is incomplete, it's impossible to determine if the water level sensor is faulty. Therefore, calibrating a first set frequency allows for the assessment of high water levels. If the water level is high, exceeding the level corresponding to the first set frequency, the water level sensor error can be assessed after drainage, and the initial water intake can be adjusted if an error is found. If the water level is low, below the normal level corresponding to the first set frequency, it can be determined that the error is caused by the water level sensor, and the initial water intake can be directly adjusted.
[0065] The first set frequency is the critical frequency of the water level sensor where the water level height inside the tank assembly does not affect the error judgment of the water level sensor. In other words, the water level height inside the tank assembly corresponding to the first set frequency is within an acceptable range, and this water level will not affect the detection of the water level sensor. The first set frequency can be obtained based on empirical values, or it can be obtained through experiments. For example, by calibrating multiple set frequencies, testing one or more set frequencies that will not affect the detection of the water level sensor, and averaging the multiple set frequencies to obtain the first set frequency.
[0066] 103. Adjust the initial water intake of the washing program according to the water level frequency and the first set frequency.
[0067] The water level frequency reflects the current water level in the tub assembly. The first set frequency is the critical water level that will not affect the detection of the water level sensor. By comparing the water level frequency with the first set frequency, the adjustment method for the initial water intake of the washing program can be determined based on the comparison results, rather than using the same adjustment method for all situations. This can improve the accuracy of the initial water intake adjustment and thus improve the washing effect of clothes.
[0068] For example, by comparing the water level frequency with a first set frequency, it's possible to determine if the water level is too high. If the water level is high, exceeding the level corresponding to the first set frequency, then after draining the water, it's possible to check for errors in the water level sensor and adjust the initial water intake if an error is detected. If the water level is low, below the normal level corresponding to the first set frequency, it can be determined that the error is caused by the water level sensor, and the initial water intake can be directly adjusted.
[0069] In the washing machine control method provided in this application embodiment, the adjustment method of the initial water intake of the washing program is determined by detecting the relationship between the real-time water level frequency and the first set frequency. The first set frequency indicates whether the water level height in the washing machine 1 will affect the judgment of the error of the water level sensor 20. Thus, different initial water intake adjustment methods are adopted when there is a lot of water and a little water in the washing machine 1, instead of using the same adjustment method for the initial water intake of the washing machine 1 regardless of the situation. This can improve the control accuracy of the water intake of the washing machine 1, thereby improving the washing effect of clothes.
[0070] Please combine Figures 1 to 3 And see Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a second flowchart illustrating the control method for a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this application. This application also provides a control method for a washing machine, including:
[0071] 201. Before filling the washing machine drum assembly with water, detect the water level frequency of the water level sensor corresponding to the current water level height in the drum assembly.
[0072] When a user needs to wash clothes, they first need to select a washing program, such as quick wash, standard wash, wool wash, or four-piece wash. When a program like quick wash is selected, it has a preset initial water volume. However, due to potential errors in the water level sensor, the water level may be inaccurate when the initial water volume is used, leading to poor washing results. In existing technology, after the user selects a washing program, they are then prompted to manually select the initial water volume, or the program defaults to the initial water volume from the previous wash. However, this method may also fail to accurately assess the weight of the clothes, resulting in an initial water volume that doesn't match the amount of laundry; or the water volume from the previous wash may not be suitable for the current wash. These factors all contribute to inaccurate control of the washing machine's initial water volume, leading to poor washing results.
[0073] To reduce the impact of human factors, this application embodiment includes a method for automatically detecting and adjusting the initial water intake of the washing machine. During this automatic detection process, before the washing program begins, the water level sensor's readings are assessed and calibrated to improve the accuracy of water level control, thereby enhancing the washing effect on the clothes.
[0074] The system detects the current water level height inside the washing machine, corresponding to the water level frequency of the water level sensor. This frequency is compared with reference parameters to determine if the water level sensor has an error. If an error is found, it is corrected, and the initial water intake is adjusted. If no error is found, water can be added directly according to the initial intake volume for washing. Essentially, the water level frequency reflects the real-time water level height inside the drum assembly detected by the water level sensor.
[0075] 202. Obtain the first set frequency, which is the critical frequency of the water level sensor whose water level height in the tank assembly does not affect the error judgment of the water level sensor.
[0076] After one wash cycle ends and before the next wash begins, water inevitably remains at the bottom of the drum assembly due to the negative pressure suction principle used by the drain pump. During this process, if the water level sensor malfunctions or if the previous wash wasn't completely drained, the water level will be high. When drainage is incomplete, it's impossible to determine if the water level sensor is faulty. Therefore, calibrating a first set frequency allows for the assessment of high water levels. If the water level is high, exceeding the level corresponding to the first set frequency, the water level sensor error can be assessed after drainage, and the initial water intake can be adjusted if an error is found. If the water level is low, below the normal level corresponding to the first set frequency, it can be determined that the error is caused by the water level sensor, and the initial water intake can be directly adjusted.
[0077] The first set frequency is the critical frequency of the water level sensor where the water level height inside the tank assembly does not affect the error judgment of the water level sensor. In other words, the water level height inside the tank assembly corresponding to the first set frequency is within an acceptable range, and this water level will not affect the detection of the water level sensor. The first set frequency can be obtained based on empirical values, or it can be obtained through experiments. For example, by calibrating multiple set frequencies, testing one or more set frequencies that will not affect the detection of the water level sensor, and averaging the multiple set frequencies to obtain the first set frequency.
[0078] 203. When the water level frequency is greater than or equal to the first set frequency, the initial water intake of the washing program is adjusted according to the first calibration formula.
[0079] When the water level frequency is greater than or equal to the first set frequency, it indicates that the water level in the tank assembly is within the range corresponding to the first set frequency. In other words, the water level at this time will not affect the water level sensor's detection. The impact on the initial water intake is caused by the error of the water level sensor. In this case, the initial water intake can be directly adjusted.
[0080] For example, the system acquires the weight of the clothes in the washing machine, the empty drum frequency of the water level sensor when the washing machine is empty, and the standard frequency of the water level sensor when the washing machine is running normally. It then acquires the set water intake volume corresponding to the weight value. Based on the set water intake volume, the empty drum frequency, and the standard frequency, the set water intake volume is adjusted using a first calibration formula to obtain the actual water intake volume.
[0081] Before the washing machine is put into use, the empty drum frequency of the water level sensor can be calibrated as one of the parameters for adjusting the initial water intake. After the washing machine is put into use, the standard frequency of the water level sensor during normal operation can be calibrated as a parameter for determining whether the water level sensor has errors and for error correction.
[0082] It's important to note that different weights of clothing require different amounts of water. Matching the appropriate amount of water to a given weight helps to clean the clothes effectively and reduces the likelihood of uneven washing. Therefore, a set amount of water can be assigned to each garment based on its weight, or a set amount of water can be assigned to each weight range that a garment falls into.
[0083] The amount of water required for clothing of the same weight but different materials is also different. For example, for cotton load and down load, since cotton load has greater water absorption than down load, the amount of water required for cotton load of the same weight is greater than that for down load, so as to achieve matching of the amount of water required for clothing of different materials.
[0084] There are two ways to obtain the set water intake volume corresponding to the weighing value. The first method involves obtaining the weighing value of the clothes in the washing machine, then obtaining the material of the clothes. Based on the weighing value and the material, the corresponding set water intake volume is selected from a mapping table. The mapping table is shown in Table 1 below. The mapping table includes multiple set clothing materials, each set clothing material corresponds to multiple preset weighing ranges, and each preset weighing range corresponds to a set water intake volume. In this case, first select the preset weighing ranges that the weighing value falls into from the mapping table, then determine which preset weighing range corresponds to which clothing material, thereby obtaining the set water intake volume for the corresponding clothing material and preset weighing range.
[0085] Table 1 Mapping Table
[0086]
[0087] It should be noted that Table 1 above is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as a limitation on the mapping table. That is, other types of clothing materials can be set, the preset weighing range can include more intervals, and the corresponding water intake setting can be increased accordingly. The mapping table can be pre-measured data stored inside the washing machine; after detecting the weighing value and clothing material, the set water intake is obtained according to the table index. Alternatively, the mapping table can store real-time measured data, with subsequent measurements using the first measurement as the basis for determining the set water intake.
[0088] The second method involves obtaining the fabric material and mapping table of the clothes in the washing machine before acquiring the weight value. The mapping table can be referenced in Table 1 above. The mapping table includes multiple preset fabric materials, each with multiple preset weight ranges, and each preset weight range corresponds to a set water intake. In this case, first select the preset fabric material from the mapping table, then select the preset weight range corresponding to the weight value from the multiple preset weight ranges for that fabric material, thereby obtaining the set water intake for the corresponding fabric material and preset weight range.
[0089] It should be noted that the washing machine processes data in a different order in the first and second methods, and you can choose the corresponding data processing method as needed.
[0090] The material of the clothing can be obtained through several methods. First, it can be photographed. An image of the clothing is taken and compared with images stored in a database to determine the material. Second, the material can be obtained by scanning the clothing label, which stores the material information. Other methods exist, but will not be elaborated upon here. Finally, the weight of the clothing can be determined by installing a weight sensor in the container assembly.
[0091] For example, the first calibration formula is: WL1=WL0+(|FW3-FW0| / |F1-F2|)*(FW3-FW0); where WL1 is the actual water intake, WL0 is the set water intake, FW3 is the empty tank frequency, FW0 is the standard frequency, F1 is the upper limit frequency of error, and F2 is the lower limit frequency of error.
[0092] It should be noted that each water level sensor has a corresponding upper and lower error frequency limit at the factory. The water level frequency detected by the water level sensor is within the normal error range if it is within the range of the lower and upper error frequency limits. If it exceeds the range of the lower and upper error frequency limits, the water level sensor can be considered damaged.
[0093] In the first calibration formula, the actual water intake is the sum of the set water intake and the error correction value. Since there is no influence from the water level, the difference between the empty tub frequency and the standard frequency can be directly used as the correction value. The ratio of the difference between the empty tub frequency and the standard frequency to the difference between the upper and lower error limits can indicate the magnitude of the error. This can be used as the adjustment formula for the initial water intake, which can improve the accuracy of the initial water intake and thus improve the washing effect of clothes.
[0094] 204. When the water level frequency is less than the first set frequency, the initial water intake of the washing program is adjusted according to the second calibration formula. The second calibration formula is different from the first calibration formula.
[0095] When the water level frequency is lower than the first set frequency, since the water level frequency is inversely proportional to the water level height, it means that the water level in the tub assembly is outside the normal range, which means that the water was not completely drained after the last wash. In this case, before adjusting the initial water intake, you can drain the water first, and then adjust the initial water intake after draining.
[0096] For example, a drainage pump is started to drain water, and the drainage frequency is obtained after drainage. To ensure data stability, multiple water level frequencies after drainage within a second preset time period can be detected after a first preset time period. The average of these multiple water level frequencies is then used to obtain the drainage frequency. The first preset time period can be 6 seconds, and the second preset time period can be adapted to the multiple water level frequencies after drainage. For example, the second preset time period can be 4 seconds, and the multiple water level frequencies after drainage can be 4. The multiple water level frequencies after drainage after the second preset time period can be obtained as follows: water level values are detected during drainage after 6 seconds of drainage, and the water level frequency is recorded once per second, for a total of 4 times over 4 seconds. The average value is then used to obtain the drainage frequency. Of course, the method of obtaining the drainage frequency is not limited to the above method, and will not be elaborated here.
[0097] After obtaining the drainage frequency, the weight value of the clothes in the washing machine and the standard frequency of the water level sensor corresponding to the normal operation of the washing machine are obtained. The set water intake volume corresponding to the weight value is obtained. The set water intake volume is adjusted according to the set water intake volume and the standard frequency using the second calibration formula to obtain the actual water intake volume.
[0098] After the washing machine is put into use, the standard frequency of the water level sensor during normal operation can be calibrated, which can be used as a parameter to determine whether there is an error in the water level sensor and to correct the error.
[0099] It's important to note that different weights of clothing require different amounts of water. Matching the appropriate amount of water to a given weight helps to clean the clothes effectively and reduces the likelihood of uneven washing. Therefore, a set amount of water can be assigned to each garment based on its weight, or a set amount of water can be assigned to each weight range that a garment falls into.
[0100] The amount of water required for clothing of the same weight but different materials is also different. For example, for cotton load and down load, since cotton load has greater water absorption than down load, the amount of water required for cotton load of the same weight is greater than that for down load, so as to achieve matching of the amount of water required for clothing of different materials.
[0101] There are two ways to obtain the set water intake volume corresponding to the weighing value. The first method involves obtaining the weighing value of the clothes in the washing machine, then obtaining the material of the clothes. Based on the weighing value and the material, the corresponding set water intake volume is selected from a mapping table. The mapping table is shown in Table 1 above. The mapping table includes multiple set clothing materials, each set clothing material corresponds to multiple preset weighing ranges, and each preset weighing range corresponds to a set water intake volume. In this case, first select the preset weighing ranges that the weighing value falls into from the mapping table, then determine which preset weighing range corresponds to which clothing material, thereby obtaining the set water intake volume for the corresponding set clothing material and preset weighing range.
[0102] The second method involves obtaining the fabric material and mapping table of the clothes in the washing machine before acquiring the weight value. The mapping table can be referenced in Table 1 above. The mapping table includes multiple preset fabric materials, each with multiple preset weight ranges, and each preset weight range corresponds to a set water intake. In this case, first select the preset fabric material from the mapping table, then select the preset weight range corresponding to the weight value from the multiple preset weight ranges for that fabric material, thereby obtaining the set water intake for the corresponding fabric material and preset weight range.
[0103] It should be noted that the washing machine processes data in a different order in the first and second methods, and you can choose the corresponding data processing method as needed.
[0104] The material of the clothing can be obtained through several methods. First, it can be photographed. An image of the clothing is taken and compared with images stored in a database to determine the material. Second, the material can be obtained by scanning the clothing label, which stores the material information. Other methods exist, but will not be elaborated upon here. Finally, the weight of the clothing can be determined by installing a weight sensor in the container assembly.
[0105] For example, the second calibration formula is: WL1=WL0+(|FW2-FW0| / |F1-F2|)*(FW2-FW0); where WL1 is the actual inflow volume, WL0 is the set inflow volume, FW2 is the drainage frequency, FW0 is the standard frequency, F1 is the upper limit frequency of error, and F2 is the lower limit frequency of error.
[0106] It should be noted that each water level sensor has a corresponding upper and lower error frequency limit at the factory. The water level frequency detected by the water level sensor is within the normal error range if it is within the range of the lower and upper error frequency limits. If it exceeds the range of the lower and upper error frequency limits, the water level sensor can be considered damaged.
[0107] In the second calibration formula, the actual water intake is the sum of the set water intake and the error correction value. Since the drainage frequency after drainage is used as the correction parameter, the difference between the drainage frequency and the standard frequency is used as the correction value. The ratio of the difference between the drainage frequency and the standard frequency to the difference between the upper and lower error limits can indicate the magnitude of the water level sensor error. This can be used as the adjustment formula for the initial water intake, which can improve the control accuracy of the initial water intake and thus improve the washing effect on clothes.
[0108] In both of the above adjustment methods, the actual water intake is assigned to the initial water intake, and the washing machine is filled with water at the initial water intake. Once the water intake is complete, the clothes can be washed.
[0109] In the washing machine control method and washing machine 1 provided in this application embodiment, the adjustment method of the initial water intake of the washing program is determined by detecting the relationship between the real-time water level frequency and the first set frequency. The first set frequency characterizes whether the water level height in the washing machine 1 will affect the judgment of the error of the water level sensor 20. Thus, different initial water intake adjustment methods are adopted when there is a lot of water and a little water in the washing machine 1, rather than using the same adjustment method for the initial water intake of the washing machine 1 regardless of the situation. This can improve the control accuracy of the water intake of the washing machine 1, thereby improving the washing effect of clothes.
[0110] 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.
[0111] The control method and washing machine 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 control method for a washing machine, the washing machine including a water level sensor, characterized in that, The control method includes: Before filling the tub assembly of the washing machine with water, the water level frequency of the water level sensor corresponding to the current water level height in the tub assembly is detected. Obtain a first set frequency, where the first set frequency is the critical frequency of the water level sensor such that the water level height inside the bucket assembly does not affect the error judgment of the water level sensor. Adjusting the initial water intake of the washing program based on the water level frequency and the first set frequency includes: determining whether the water level is high by comparing the water level frequency with the first set frequency; if the water level is high, draining the water and then determining whether the water level sensor has an error, and adjusting the initial water intake if the water level sensor has an error; if the water level is low, determining that it is caused by the error of the water level sensor, and directly adjusting the initial water intake; the adjustment of the initial water intake based on the water level frequency and the first set frequency further includes: when the water level frequency is greater than or equal to the first set frequency, adjusting the initial water intake of the washing program according to a first calibration formula; when the water level frequency is less than the first set frequency, adjusting the initial water intake of the washing program according to a second calibration formula, wherein the second calibration formula is different from the first calibration formula.
2. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the water level frequency is greater than or equal to the first set frequency, adjusting the initial water intake of the washing program according to the first calibration formula includes: The washing machine is equipped with the following: the weight of the clothes in the washing machine, the empty drum frequency of the water level sensor when the washing machine is empty, and the standard frequency of the water level sensor when the washing machine is running normally. The empty drum frequency is greater than the standard frequency. Obtain the set inlet water volume corresponding to the weighing value; The set water intake volume is adjusted according to the set water intake volume, the empty tank frequency, and the standard frequency using the first calibration formula to obtain the actual water intake volume.
3. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the water level frequency is less than the first set frequency, the initial water intake of the washing program is adjusted according to a second calibration formula, wherein the second calibration formula differs from the first calibration formula and includes: Start the drainage pump to drain the water and obtain the drainage frequency after drainage. The weight of the underwear in the washing machine and the standard frequency of the water level sensor corresponding to the normal operation of the washing machine are obtained. Obtain the set inlet water volume corresponding to the weighing value; The set water inlet volume is adjusted according to the set water inlet volume and the standard frequency using the second calibration formula to obtain the actual water inlet volume.
4. The control method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The process of starting the drainage pump to drain water and obtaining the drainage frequency after drainage includes: Turn on the drain pump and drain for a first preset time. Then, detect the water level frequency after multiple drainages within a second preset time. The drainage frequency is obtained by averaging the water level frequencies after multiple drainages.
5. The control method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the set influent volume corresponding to the weighing value includes: Obtain the material of the clothes inside the washing machine; Select the corresponding set water intake from the mapping table according to the clothing material and the weight value. The mapping table includes multiple set clothing materials, each set clothing material corresponds to multiple preset weight ranges, and each preset weight range corresponds to a set water intake.
6. The control method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, Before obtaining the weight value of the underwear in the washing machine, the control method further includes: Obtain the clothing material and mapping table inside the washing machine. The mapping table includes multiple set clothing materials, each set clothing material corresponds to multiple preset weighing ranges, and each preset weighing range corresponds to a set water intake volume. The step of obtaining the set influent volume corresponding to the weighing value includes: Determine the preset weighing range into which the weighing value falls, and obtain the corresponding set water inflow.
7. A washing machine, characterized in that, include: A bucket assembly, wherein the bucket assembly is provided with a drain outlet; A water level sensor is installed at the drain outlet; A controller, electrically connected to the water level sensor, is configured to: detect the water level frequency of the water level sensor corresponding to the current water level height in the tub assembly before water is introduced into the tub assembly; obtain a first set frequency, wherein the first set frequency is the critical frequency of the water level sensor for which the water level height in the tub assembly does not affect the error judgment of the water level sensor; adjust the initial water intake of the washing program according to the water level frequency and the first set frequency, including: determining whether the water level is high by comparing the water level frequency with the first set frequency; if the water level is high, draining the water and then determining whether the water level sensor has an error, and in... When the water level sensor has an error, the initial water intake is adjusted; if the water level is low, it is determined that the error is caused by the water level sensor, and the initial water intake is directly adjusted; the step of adjusting the initial water intake of the washing program according to the water level frequency and the first set frequency further includes: when the water level frequency is greater than or equal to the first set frequency, adjusting the initial water intake of the washing program according to a first calibration formula; when the water level frequency is less than the first set frequency, adjusting the initial water intake of the washing program according to a second calibration formula, wherein the second calibration formula is different from the first calibration formula.