Laundry treating apparatus and metal foreign substance detection method

Abstract

The present application discloses a kind of clothes processing equipment and metal foreign matter detection method, the clothes processing equipment includes the metal detection module and infrared induction module being arranged at clothes delivery port;The metal foreign matter detection method includes: if it is judged that the interval time of the trigger signal generated by infrared induction module and the signal sensed by metal detection module exceeds the set interval time, it can be inferred that the user performs the clothes taking action, and the alarm device is not controlled to work.The above-mentioned metal foreign matter detection method provided by the present application can accurately distinguish and judge whether the user is throwing clothes or taking clothes.When it is judged that the interval time of the trigger signal generated by infrared induction module and the signal sensed by metal detection module exceeds the set interval time, it is inferred that the user is performing the clothes taking action, and the alarm device is not controlled to work, to avoid false alarm when taking clothes to bring the user's distress, improve the user's experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the technical field of clothing processing equipment, specifically, it relates to a clothing processing device and a method for detecting metal foreign objects. Background Technology

[0002] As people's living standards continue to improve, washing machines have gradually become one of the essential home appliances, and most people use them as their primary tool for washing clothes. Due to the fast pace of life, people often forget to check their clothing pockets when doing laundry, and these pockets frequently contain foreign metal objects such as coins, keys, metal jewelry, mobile phones, and earphones.

[0003] During the washing process, clothes are repeatedly agitated, and these metal objects may fall out of the pockets and come into direct contact with the inner drum of the washing machine. This can cause wear and tear on the inner drum and the clothes. Small objects such as coins, keys, and metal ornaments can easily get stuck in the gaps of the inner drum, potentially causing the drum to jam, the motor to overload, and other problems, resulting in serious damage or even destruction of the washing machine. Furthermore, electronic products such as mobile phones and headphones will become unusable after being submerged in water, causing financial loss to the user.

[0004] Chinese Patent Application No. 201720188233.8 discloses a garment processing device and a metal detection device for the garment processing device. The metal detection device includes: a base; a detection circuit disposed on the base and having a preset reference voltage value; a coil disposed on the base and connected to the detection circuit, the coil generating a magnetic field when energized, the magnetic field covering at least a portion of the base and having magnetic lines of force extending substantially along the thickness direction of the base; and an alarm device connected to the detection circuit, the detection circuit generating a driving voltage for driving the alarm device when a metal object cuts the magnetic lines of force, wherein the alarm level of the alarm device varies with the difference between the driving voltage value and the reference voltage value.

[0005] The clothing processing device disclosed in the aforementioned application can detect whether there is metal in the clothing being processed. However, if the user is wearing metal jewelry such as bracelets, watches, necklaces, rings, or other metal foreign objects when retrieving the clothing, it is very easy to trigger a false alarm, which reduces the accuracy of the metal detection device and results in a poor user experience.

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

[0007] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a method for detecting metal foreign objects in clothing handling equipment. This method can accurately distinguish whether the user is throwing or picking up clothing. When it is determined that the user is picking up clothing, the alarm device is controlled to not work, thus avoiding the inconvenience caused to the user by false alarms when picking up clothing and improving the user experience.

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the first aspect of this application discloses a method for detecting metal foreign objects in a clothing processing device, wherein the clothing processing device includes a metal detection module and an infrared sensing module disposed at the clothing inlet;

[0009] The detection method includes: if the interval between the infrared sensing module generating a trigger signal and the metal detection module sensing a shaking signal exceeds a set interval, it can be inferred that the user is performing the action of taking clothes, and the alarm device is controlled to not work.

[0010] Furthermore, the method for determining the shaking signal includes:

[0011] If the metal detection module generates more than a set number of continuous waves within a set time period, and the continuous waves show a converging trend, then it can be determined that a shaking signal has been generated.

[0012] Furthermore, the method for detecting metal foreign objects in the garment processing equipment specifically includes:

[0013] If the metal detection module senses the shaking signal within the set interval after the infrared sensing module generates the trigger signal, it can be inferred that the user is performing the action of throwing clothes into the bin, and the alarm device will be kept in working condition.

[0014] If the metal detection module senses the shaking signal after the set interval following the trigger signal generated by the infrared sensing module, it will infer that the user is taking out clothes and will control the alarm device to not work.

[0015] Preferably, the set interval time is between 350ms and 450ms; more preferably, the set interval time is 400ms.

[0016] Furthermore, the method for detecting metal foreign objects in the garment processing equipment also includes:

[0017] If the metal detection module generates a metal trigger signal at the same time as, or if the infrared sensing module also generates a trigger signal within a set time difference range, an alarm will be triggered; otherwise, no alarm will be triggered.

[0018] Preferably, the alarm device includes an NFC module and an NFC alarm tag, and the method further includes:

[0019] When the alarm device sounds an alarm, the NFC module writes the alarm information into the NFC alarm tag. The smart terminal triggers the NFC alarm tag at close range and reads the alarm information.

[0020] Preferably, the alarm information includes the alarm time and / or information about the metallic foreign object.

[0021] Furthermore, the method for determining whether the metal detection module generates a metal trigger signal includes:

[0022] Based on the acquired output voltage signal from the metal detection module, a waveform curve is plotted.

[0023] If it is determined that the metal detection module generates a single signal wave and the output voltage signal reaches the first set voltage threshold;

[0024] This indicates that a metal trigger signal has been generated.

[0025] Furthermore, the method for detecting metal foreign objects in the garment processing equipment also includes the following steps:

[0026] The data features of the signal wave are extracted, and the extracted data features are compared and analyzed with preset judgment data to determine the type of metallic foreign object.

[0027] Furthermore, the method for determining whether the metal detection module generates a metal trigger signal includes the following steps:

[0028] Based on the acquired output voltage signal from the metal detection module, a waveform curve is plotted.

[0029] If it is determined that the metal detection module generates a single signal wave and the output voltage signal reaches the second set voltage threshold;

[0030] Further obtain the instantaneous slope value of the output voltage signal of the metal detection module, and compare the instantaneous slope value with the set slope threshold;

[0031] If the instantaneous slope value is determined to be greater than the set slope threshold, a metal trigger signal can be generated.

[0032] In a second aspect, this application also provides a garment processing device that employs any of the aforementioned garment processing device metal foreign object detection methods.

[0033] Furthermore, the metal detection module includes a transmitting coil and a receiving coil disposed on opposite sides of the clothing dispensing port;

[0034] Preferably, the transmitting coil and the receiving coil are located on the same horizontal plane and at the same height as the infrared sensing module.

[0035] Furthermore, the transmitting coil and the receiving coil are arc-shaped or strip-shaped structures symmetrically arranged along the radial direction of the clothing insertion port;

[0036] Preferably, the lengths of the transmitting coil and the receiving coil are set to L, and the diameter of the clothing insertion port is set to D, where L = 1 / 3D.

[0037] By adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art.

[0038] 1. The metal foreign object detection method provided by the present invention can accurately distinguish whether the user is throwing or picking up clothes. When the interval between the infrared sensing module generating a trigger signal and the metal detection module sensing the shaking signal exceeds the set interval, it is inferred that the user is performing the action of picking up clothes, and the alarm device is controlled not to work, so as to avoid the trouble caused to the user by false alarms when picking up clothes and improve the user experience.

[0039] 2. The metal foreign object detection method provided by the present invention will only trigger an alarm when the metal detection module generates a metal trigger signal or when the infrared sensing module also generates a trigger signal within a set time difference range; otherwise, no alarm will be triggered. This method can accurately determine whether the metal trigger signal is generated by the metal detection module due to a metal foreign object in the clothing being processed. It effectively shields the interference of external interference caused by changes in the internal magnetic field of the clothing processing equipment on metal detection, improves the accuracy of the metal detection module's identification, and reduces the phenomenon of false alarms.

[0040] 3. The clothing processing device provided by the present invention uses two arc-shaped or strip-shaped coils to detect metal foreign objects in the clothing. Compared with the traditional large ring coil, the coil is smaller and more convenient, has higher adaptability, is easier to install, and has lower cost.

[0041] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0042] In the attached diagram:

[0043] Figure 1 This is a schematic flowchart of one implementation method of the metal foreign object detection method in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of one implementation method of the metal foreign object detection method in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of one implementation method of the metal foreign object detection method in Embodiment 3 of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of one implementation method for detecting the type of metallic foreign object in Embodiment 4 of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the waveform curve in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram comparing the waveform curves of different types of metallic foreign objects in embodiments of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of the simulated delivery in Embodiment 6 of Embodiment 4 of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the changes in the output voltage signal value and instantaneous slope value when different types of metallic foreign objects are placed in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the changes in voltage signal, infrared signal, and instantaneous slope value output by the metal detection module over time when there is a metal foreign object in the clothing being placed, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the comparison between the instantaneous slope value output by the metal detection module and the set slope threshold when there is a metal foreign object in the clothing being placed in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 11 This is a top view schematic diagram of the clothing processing equipment in Embodiment 5 of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 12 This is a side view schematic diagram of the clothing processing device in Embodiment 5 of the present invention;

[0055] In the diagram: 1. Metal detection module; 11. Transmitting coil; 12. Receiving coil; 21. Infrared transmitter; 22. Infrared receiver; 3. Panel; 301. Clothing loading port; 4. Box body.

[0056] It should be noted that these accompanying drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the embodiments.

[0058] Example 1

[0059] This embodiment provides a method for detecting metal foreign objects in a garment processing device. The garment processing device includes a metal detection module and an infrared sensing module installed at the garment inlet. The metal detection module includes an induction coil.

[0060] The detection method includes: if the interval between the infrared sensing module generating a trigger signal and the metal detection module sensing a shaking signal exceeds a set interval, it can be inferred that the user is performing the action of taking clothes, and the alarm device is controlled to not work.

[0061] Specifically, such as Figure 1 As shown, the above detection method includes the following steps:

[0062] S101: If the infrared sensing module generates a trigger signal, the metal detection module will sense the shaking signal of the barrel.

[0063] S102: Obtain the time interval T between the trigger signal generated by the infrared sensing module and the shaking signal sensed by the metal detection module;

[0064] S103: Determine whether the interval time T is greater than the set interval time TS; if yes, proceed to step S104; if no, proceed to step S105.

[0065] S104: Inferring that the user has performed the action of retrieving clothes, the alarm device is deactivated;

[0066] S105: Inferring that the user has performed the action of throwing clothes, control the alarm to remain in working state.

[0067] In the above scheme, the process of throwing clothes (without metal) is as follows: At the same time as the infrared sensing module signal is triggered, the metal detection module does not detect the metal trigger signal. The clothes fall freely from the clothes throwing port to the bottom of the bucket, which will hit the bottom of the inner bucket, causing the inner bucket to shake. The induction coil of the metal detection module generates a wave signal, and the metal detection module detects the shaking signal caused by hitting the bucket.

[0068] The process of retrieving clothes (without metal) is as follows: The user reaches into the bucket, and the infrared signal of the infrared sensing module is blocked. At this time, the metal detection module does not detect the metal trigger signal. The hand reaches to the bottom of the bucket, and the clothes are taken out. The shaking signal of the bucket caused by the clothes leaving the bottom of the bucket is recognized by the metal detection module. The metal detection module detects the shaking signal caused by the clothes leaving the bottom of the bucket.

[0069] Since the clothes fall freely from the clothing inlet to the bottom of the bucket when thrown, the time is much shorter than the time it takes for the user's hand to reach the bottom of the bucket from the clothing inlet. Therefore, we can distinguish whether the user is taking clothes or throwing clothes by measuring the time interval between the trigger signal generated by the infrared sensor module and the shaking signal sensed by the metal detection module. When it is determined that the user is taking clothes, the alarm device is disabled.

[0070] The metal foreign object detection method provided in this embodiment can accurately distinguish whether the user is throwing or picking up clothes. When the interval between the infrared sensing module generating a trigger signal and the metal detection module sensing the shaking signal exceeds a set interval, it is inferred that the user is performing the action of picking up clothes, and the alarm device is controlled not to work, avoiding the trouble caused to the user by false alarms when picking up clothes, and improving the user experience.

[0071] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the method for determining the shaking signal includes:

[0072] If the metal detection module generates more than a set number of continuous waves within a set time period, and the continuous waves show a converging trend, then it can be determined that a shaking signal has been generated.

[0073] Specifically, whether a swaying signal is generated can be determined by whether the slope value of the wave alternates between positive and negative within a specified time and whether the signal value at the slope alternation point shows a decreasing trend.

[0074] In this embodiment, the set quantity and set time are determined based on the material, size, height of the clothing processing equipment, and multiple simulated shaking experiments.

[0075] The continuous wave consists of at least two waves. That is, within a set time, such as 2 seconds or 100 milliseconds, the metal detection module generates two or more continuous waves, and the waves show a gradually converging trend. This indicates that a shaking signal has been generated.

[0076] Since the shaking of the inner tub usually lasts for a certain period of time and does not disappear immediately, multiple continuous waves are generated. As the shaking gradually weakens, the waves also show a trend of gradual convergence. Therefore, by judging whether more than a set number of continuous waves are generated and whether the waves show a trend of gradual convergence, we can accurately determine whether a shaking signal has been generated.

[0077] In this embodiment, by adopting the above-mentioned determination method, it is possible to effectively distinguish between the shaking signal and the metal trigger signal, and it is also possible to effectively shield the interference of electronic products such as mobile phones located near the metal detection module on the signal determination.

[0078] Furthermore, the method for detecting metal foreign objects in the garment processing equipment specifically includes:

[0079] If the metal detection module senses the shaking signal within the set interval after the infrared sensing module generates the trigger signal, it can be inferred that the user is performing the action of throwing clothes into the bin, and the alarm device will be kept in working condition.

[0080] If the metal detection module senses the shaking signal after the set interval following the trigger signal generated by the infrared sensing module, it will infer that the user is taking out clothes and will control the alarm device to not work.

[0081] Preferably, the set interval time is between 350ms and 450ms; more preferably, the set interval time is 400ms. The set interval time was obtained by testers through extensive experimentation.

[0082] The metal foreign object detection method for clothing handling equipment provided in this embodiment, when it is determined that the interval between the infrared sensing module generating a trigger signal and the metal detection module sensing the shaking signal exceeds a set interval, infers that the user is performing the action of taking clothes, controls the alarm device to not work, and blocks the alarm. This can effectively solve the problem that when the user is taking clothes, they are wearing metal ornaments on their hands, such as bracelets, watches, necklaces, rings, etc., which may accidentally trigger the alarm device and affect the user experience.

[0083] Example 2

[0084] This embodiment provides a method for detecting metal foreign objects in clothing processing equipment based on Embodiment 1, mainly detailing how to detect metal foreign objects in the clothing being processed.

[0085] Combination Figure 2 As shown, the metal foreign object detection method for clothing processing equipment described in this embodiment includes:

[0086] If the metal detection module generates a metal trigger signal at the same time as, or if the infrared sensing module also generates a trigger signal within a set time difference range, an alarm will be triggered; otherwise, no alarm will be triggered.

[0087] The metal foreign object detection method provided by the above solution will only trigger an alarm when the metal detection module generates a metal trigger signal or when the infrared sensing module also generates a trigger signal within a set time difference range; otherwise, no alarm will be triggered. This method can accurately determine whether the metal trigger signal is generated by the metal detection module due to a metal foreign object in the clothing being processed. It effectively shields the interference of external interference caused by changes in the internal magnetic field of the clothing processing equipment on metal detection, improves the accuracy of the metal detection module's identification, and reduces the phenomenon of false alarms.

[0088] Specifically, if the time difference range is set to T0 seconds, then if the infrared sensing module generates a trigger signal within T0 seconds before or after the metal detection module generates the metal trigger signal, it can be inferred that the metal trigger signal is generated by a metal foreign object in the clothing being placed, rather than interference from the opening and closing cover or nearby electronic metal devices.

[0089] The value of T0 is obtained based on the simulated drop experiment and the corresponding calculation formula. The value of T0 mainly depends on the distance between the metal detection module and the infrared sensing module in the axial direction of the inner barrel. The greater the distance between the metal detection module and the infrared sensing module, the greater T0, and vice versa.

[0090] Specifically, in one embodiment, the metal detection module is positioned above the infrared sensing module. Within T0 seconds after the metal detection module generates a metal trigger signal, if it is determined that the infrared sensing module also generates a trigger signal, it can be inferred that the metal detection module was triggered by a foreign metal object in the clothing being placed, and an alarm is triggered; otherwise, no alarm is triggered.

[0091] In another embodiment, the infrared sensing module is positioned above the metal detection module. Within T0 seconds after the infrared sensing module generates a trigger signal, if it is determined that the metal detection module also generates a metal trigger signal, it can be inferred that the metal detection module was triggered by a foreign metal object in the clothing being placed, and an alarm is triggered; otherwise, no alarm is triggered.

[0092] In a preferred embodiment of this invention, the infrared sensing module and the metal detection module are positioned at the same height. An alarm is triggered only when the infrared sensing module generates a metal trigger signal at the same time as the metal detection module, thereby further improving the detection efficiency of metal foreign objects.

[0093] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, preferably, the metal detection module and the infrared sensing module are at the same height. Even if there is a certain height difference, the height difference is relatively small and can be ignored. Therefore, the set time difference range is close to 0.

[0094] Furthermore, in one embodiment of this example, the method for determining whether the metal detection module generates a metal trigger signal specifically includes the following steps:

[0095] S201: Based on the acquired output voltage signal from the metal detection module, plot the waveform curve;

[0096] S202: If it is determined that the metal detection module generates a single signal wave and the output voltage signal reaches the first set voltage threshold;

[0097] S203: This indicates that a metal trigger signal has been generated.

[0098] In the above scheme, if metal passes through the clothing inlet, the sensing voltage of the metal detection module will fluctuate significantly, generating a downward signal wave. If the output voltage of the metal detection module reaches or falls below the first set voltage threshold, it can be determined that metal has passed through.

[0099] In this embodiment, the first set voltage threshold is a set dynamic average threshold V0, which is calculated as follows:

[0100] V0 = V mean -R, R = 5mV, K = 100 points.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment of this invention, the alarm device includes an NFC module and an NFC alarm tag, and the method further includes:

[0102] When the alarm device sounds an alarm, the NFC module writes the alarm information into the NFC alarm tag. The smart terminal triggers the NFC alarm tag at close range and reads the alarm information.

[0103] Preferably, the alarm information includes alarm time and / or information about the metal foreign object; more preferably, the information about the metal foreign object includes the quantity and / or type of the metal foreign object.

[0104] In this embodiment, while the alarm device is sounding the alarm, the NFC module can write the alarm information into the NFC alarm tag, recording the alarm time and / or the quantity and / or type of the metal foreign object. This way, even if the user is not near the clothing processing equipment and does not hear the alarm, they can still use a smart terminal, such as a mobile phone with NFC function, to identify the NFC alarm tag and query the alarm time and / or the quantity and / or type of the metal foreign object, resulting in a better user experience.

[0105] Example 3

[0106] This embodiment provides a method for detecting metal foreign objects in a garment processing device. The difference from the second embodiment above is that, when determining whether a metal trigger signal is generated, a step is added to determine the instantaneous slope value of the output voltage signal and the set slope threshold, so as to improve the recognition rate of small metal foreign objects.

[0107] Specifically, in combination Figure 3 , Figures 8 to 10 As shown, the method for determining the metal trigger signal generated by the metal detection module in this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0108] S301: Based on the acquired output voltage signal from the metal detection module, plot the waveform curve;

[0109] S302: If it is determined that the metal detection module generates a single signal wave and the output voltage signal reaches the second set voltage threshold;

[0110] S303: Further obtain the instantaneous slope value of the output voltage signal of the metal detection module, and compare the instantaneous slope value with the set slope threshold;

[0111] S304: If it is determined that the instantaneous slope value is greater than the set slope threshold, then it can be determined that a metal trigger signal is generated.

[0112] In the above scheme, the second set voltage threshold is less than the first set voltage threshold. By adding a judgment step between the instantaneous slope value and the set slope threshold, compared with the second embodiment, the voltage threshold can be reduced based on the first set voltage threshold. This is because if the voltage threshold is set too high, the output voltage signal of the metal detection module will be relatively low when some small metal foreign objects pass through, which may not reach the set voltage threshold, resulting in missed detection.

[0113] In this embodiment, by reducing the size of the set voltage threshold and adding a judgment step between the instantaneous slope value and the set slope threshold, both false judgments and missed detections can be avoided, effectively ensuring the accuracy of recognition and the high recognition rate of small metal objects.

[0114] Furthermore, when it is determined that the voltage signal output by the metal detection module exceeds the second set voltage threshold, the step of acquiring the instantaneous slope value of the output voltage signal in real time is then executed. When the output voltage signal of the metal detection module produces slight fluctuations, the instantaneous slope value of the output voltage signal is not judged to be greater than the set slope threshold, reducing unnecessary waste of resources and making the entire judgment process simpler and more reasonable.

[0115] Furthermore, combined Figure 5 , Figures 8 to 10 The acquisition of the instantaneous slope value of the output voltage signal from the metal detection module specifically includes the following steps:

[0116] S401: Acquires the output voltage signals V1, V2, ..., Vn of the metal detection module;

[0117] S402: Plot the detection waveform curve that changes with time t based on the acquired output voltage signal;

[0118] S403: When it is determined that the output voltage signal is lower than the second set voltage threshold, the instantaneous slope value P = ΔV / Δt of the output voltage signal is calculated.

[0119] Preferably, the sampling frequency of the output voltage signal is T1, and ΔV = V n-2 -V n Δt=2T1, instantaneous slope value P=(V n-2 -V nThe instantaneous slope value is taken from the output voltage signal V at the first two points. n-2 With V n The calculation and analysis show that, of course, it is not limited to taking the output voltage signals of the first two points; the output voltage signals of the first three or four points can also be taken to calculate the instantaneous slope value.

[0120] Alternatively, to put it another way, when it is determined that the output voltage signal is lower than the second set voltage threshold, the derivative of the output voltage signal at each point of the detection waveform curve is obtained. When it is determined that the derivative is greater than the set threshold, it can be determined that the metal detection module generates a trigger signal, and it can be determined whether the infrared sensing module is in a triggered state at this time.

[0121] Preferably, in this embodiment, the instantaneous slope value P is directly taken as ΔV, i.e., V n-2 -V n The difference can also be used to determine whether the metal detection module has generated a trigger signal by the instantaneous drop value of the voltage signal. This achieves the same effect as the instantaneous slope value and simplifies the judgment process.

[0122] Preferably, the sampling frequency of the output voltage signal is one point every 10 to 20 ms, that is, 20 ms ≥ T1 ≥ 10 ms.

[0123] This application uses a time overlap width method to calculate the instantaneous slope value when the output voltage signal of the metal detection module drops below a second set voltage threshold. When the instantaneous slope value of the output voltage signal reaches the set slope threshold, it determines whether the infrared sensing module has a high level. If it does, an alarm is triggered.

[0124] Example 4

[0125] This embodiment provides a method for detecting metal foreign objects in clothing processing equipment based on Embodiment 2. The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 2 is that this embodiment can determine the type of metal foreign object based on the data characteristics of the extracted signal wave.

[0126] The method for detecting metal foreign objects in clothing processing equipment described in this embodiment also includes the following steps:

[0127] The data features of the signal wave are extracted and compared with the preset judgment data to determine the type of metallic foreign object.

[0128] Specifically, such as Figure 4 As shown, the method for detecting metal foreign objects in clothing processing equipment described in this embodiment specifically includes the following steps:

[0129] S501: Based on the acquired output voltage signal from the metal detection module, plot the waveform curve;

[0130] S502: If it is determined that the metal detection module generates a single signal wave and the output voltage signal reaches the first set voltage threshold;

[0131] S503: Extract the data features of the signal wave, and compare and analyze the extracted data features with preset judgment data to determine the type of metallic foreign object;

[0132] S504: Remind users to identify the types of metallic foreign objects found in clothing.

[0133] When this application detects a metallic foreign object in the clothing being processed by the clothing processing equipment, it further determines the type of the metallic foreign object by extracting the data features of the detection waveform curve and comparing and analyzing the extracted data features with preset judgment data to determine the type of metallic foreign object. This alerts the user to the type of metallic foreign object, improves the intelligence level of the clothing processing equipment, enhances human-computer interaction capabilities, and improves the user experience.

[0134] Furthermore, combined Figure 5 As shown, the extraction of data features from the signal wave includes the following steps:

[0135] Obtain the voltage signal Vmin at point b, the lowest point of the signal wave curve, and calculate the voltage difference V based on the first voltage threshold V0 and the voltage signal Vmin at the lowest point. pp ;

[0136] Let point a be the point where the falling edge of the signal wave curve reaches the first voltage threshold V0, and point c be the point where the rising edge reaches the voltage threshold V0.

[0137] Obtain the slope K at point ab ab The slope K at point bc bc The time difference T between points b and c bc and the ratio of characteristic parameters Q=V pp ÷T bc ;

[0138] Extracting data features K ab K bc T bc Q = V pp ÷T bc The value is recorded and saved.

[0139] The data features extracted in this embodiment include, but are not limited to: voltage difference V pp Slope K ab Slope K ab Time difference T bc The ratio of characteristic parameters Q = V pp ÷T bcAny one or any combination of the above. Of course, other defined data features can also be used, such as the ratio of feature parameters, which can also be the slope K. ab With time difference T bc The ratio of .

[0140] Different types of metallic foreign objects vary in their contours, materials, shapes, and sizes. These differences affect the output voltage signal of the metal detection module, which in turn affects the voltage difference value V, a key data characteristic parameter. pp Slope K ab Slope K ab Time difference T bc The ratio of characteristic parameters Q = V pp ÷T bc Therefore, in this embodiment, the data features of different types of metallic foreign objects are extracted and compared with preset judgment data to distinguish and judge the types of metallic foreign objects.

[0141] The method for determining the type of metallic foreign object in this embodiment includes the following six implementation methods:

[0142] Implementation Method 1

[0143] The metal foreign object detection method described in this embodiment includes a one-dimensional judgment mode, the extracted data features include a first data feature, and the preset judgment data includes a first preset parameter threshold.

[0144] The one-dimensional judgment mode includes: judging and comparing the first data feature with the first preset parameter threshold, and inferring the type of metallic foreign object based on the judgment result.

[0145] Combination Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 As shown in Table 1, if the user only needs to determine two types of metallic foreign objects, and selects the one-dimensional determination mode, the first data feature is the voltage difference V. pp Different metallic foreign objects contain different metallic compositions and total amounts of metal, resulting in different induced voltages through the coil. The voltage difference V is used to determine the induced voltage. pp The value can distinguish metallic foreign objects with a large metal content.

[0146] For example, identifying mobile phones and car keys, such as Figure 3 The waveform curves shown clearly indicate that the mobile phone V is the most likely to be detected when a mobile phone is placed in the device. pp Maximum, car key V pp Minimum, determined by a one-dimensional judgment pattern V pp The size of the object can be used to detect the specific type of metallic foreign object. For example, during the factory testing of clothing processing equipment, personnel simulated the placement of a mobile phone V... ppGreater than 50mV, car key V pp If the value is less than 30mV, the first preset parameter threshold is X1, where X1 is 40mV.

[0147] <![CDATA[V pp ]]> Item Judgment ≤X1 Item 1 ＞X1 Item 2

[0148] Table 1

[0149] During the actual operation of the garment processing equipment, the voltage difference V is determined. pp The magnitude of the voltage difference V is determined when the voltage difference V is compared with the first preset parameter threshold X1. pp When the voltage difference is less than or equal to 40mV, it is deduced that the metallic foreign object in the clothing is a car key, and the user is alerted. When the voltage difference V is determined... pp If the voltage is greater than 40mV, it is inferred that the metallic foreign object in the clothing is a mobile phone, and the user is alerted.

[0150] In the above scheme, the first preset parameter threshold X1 and the one-dimensional judgment mode are stored in the garment processing device's storage unit at the time of manufacture. When the garment processing device is upgraded to a network connection, the value of the first preset parameter threshold X1 will be optimized accordingly.

[0151] Alternatively, in another preferred embodiment, the garment processing equipment is equipped with a simulation dispensing program, through which the user can actively optimize the first preset parameter threshold.

[0152] In this embodiment, the first data feature in the one-dimensional judgment mode can also be the slope K. ab Slope K bc Time difference T bc and the ratio of characteristic parameters Q=V pp ÷T bc Any one of them.

[0153] As shown in Table 2 below, the first data feature can also be the feature parameter ratio Q. The first preset parameter threshold is N1. In the actual process of the clothing processing equipment, if the extracted feature parameter ratio Q is less than or equal to N1, it is inferred that the type of metal foreign object in the clothing is item 1. If it is determined that Q is greater than N1, it is inferred that the type of metal foreign object in the clothing is item 2.

[0154] Q Item Judgment ≤N1 Item 1 ＞N1 Item 2

[0155] Table 2

[0156] Implementation Method 2

[0157] The metal foreign object detection method for clothing processing equipment provided in this embodiment includes a two-dimensional judgment mode, the extracted data features also include a second data feature, and the preset judgment data also includes a second preset parameter threshold.

[0158] The two-dimensional judgment mode includes: judging and comparing the first data feature with the first preset parameter threshold and the second data feature with the second preset parameter threshold respectively, and inferring the type of metallic foreign object based on the judgment result.

[0159] Specifically, in conjunction with the appendix Figure 5-6 As shown in Table 3, V-shaped keys, such as Bluetooth keys and car keys, are... pp If they are relatively similar, the type of metallic foreign object can be further distinguished and determined by comparing the second data characteristics.

[0160] For example, as shown in Table 3, the first data feature can be V. pp The first preset parameter threshold is X1; the second data feature is K. ab The second preset parameter threshold is Y1. During the actual operation of the garment processing equipment, when V is detected... pp ≤X1、K ab When Y ≤ Y1, it can be deduced that the foreign object is a metal object, namely item 1; when V is determined... pp ≤X1、K ab When Y > 1, it can be deduced that the foreign object is a metallic object, specifically item 3; when V is determined... pp >X1, K ab When Y1 ≤ Y1, it can be deduced that the foreign object is a metal object, namely item 2; when V is determined to be... pp >X1, K ab If Y > Y1, then it can be deduced that the foreign object is a metallic object, namely item 4.

[0161] Of course, in this embodiment, in the two-dimensional judgment mode, the first data feature and the second data feature can be the voltage difference V. pp Slope K ab Slope K ab Time difference T bc The ratio of characteristic parameters Q = V pp ÷T bc Any two combinations.

[0162]

[0163] Table 3

[0164] Implementation Method 3

[0165] The metal foreign object detection method for clothing processing equipment provided in this embodiment also includes a three-dimensional judgment mode, the extracted data features also include a third data feature, and the preset judgment data also includes a third preset parameter threshold.

[0166] Combination Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown in Table 4, the three-dimensional judgment mode includes: judging and comparing the size of the first data feature with the first preset parameter threshold, the second data feature with the second preset parameter threshold, and the third data feature with the third preset parameter threshold, and inferring the type of metal foreign object based on the judgment results.

[0167] As shown in Table 4, the first data feature can be taken as V. pp The first preset parameter threshold is X1; the second data feature is K. ab The second preset parameter threshold is Y1; the third data feature is K. bc The third preset parameter threshold is Z1. During the actual operation of the garment processing equipment, when V is detected... pp ≤X1、K ab When ≤Y1, K bc If Z1 ≤ Z1, it can be deduced that it is a metallic foreign object, namely item 1; when V is determined... pp ≤X1、K ab When ≤Y1, K bc >Z1 indicates that the object is a metallic foreign object, item 5; when V is determined... pp ≤X1、K ab >Y1, K bc When Z1 ≤ Z1, it can be deduced that the foreign object is a metal object, specifically item 3; when V is determined... pp ≤X1、K ab >Y1, K bc When the value is greater than Z1, it can be deduced that the metal foreign object is item 6, as shown in Table 4. In this way, a total of eight types of metal foreign objects can be deduced.

[0168]

[0169] Table 4

[0170] Implementation Method 4

[0171] The metal foreign object detection method described in this embodiment further includes a four-dimensional judgment mode. The extracted data features also include a fourth data feature, and the preset judgment data also includes a fourth preset parameter threshold. The four-dimensional judgment mode includes: judging and comparing the magnitudes of the first data feature with the first preset parameter threshold, the second data feature with the second preset parameter threshold, the third data feature with the third preset parameter threshold, and the fourth data feature with the fourth preset parameter threshold, and inferring the type of metal foreign object based on the judgment results.

[0172] As shown in Table 5, the first data feature can be taken as V. pp The first preset parameter threshold is X1; the second data feature is K. ab The second preset parameter threshold is Y1; the third data feature is K. bc The third preset parameter threshold is Z1; the fourth data feature is T. bc The fourth preset parameter threshold is M1.

[0173] The metal foreign object detection method provided in this embodiment can accurately determine the type of metal foreign object. The method is simple and efficient. Through the four-dimensional judgment mode, it can effectively detect up to sixteen types of metal foreign objects, making the detection of metal foreign object types more comprehensive and rich, and meeting the needs of most users.

[0174]

[0175] Table 5

[0176] In this embodiment, the clothing processing device can default to any of the judgment modes in implementation methods one to four. Preferably, since the four-dimensional judgment mode can detect more comprehensive and richer types of metal foreign objects, the default judgment mode of the clothing processing device can be set to the four-dimensional judgment mode.

[0177] Preferably, in the metal foreign object detection method provided in this embodiment, the user can switch between judgment modes according to actual needs through the control panel or control terminal of the clothing processing device. For example, the one-dimensional judgment mode is used to distinguish between headphones and car keys. If the user thinks that they might actually put headphones and car keys into the clothing processing device, then the clothing processing device can be switched to the one-dimensional judgment mode. This not only meets the user's personalized needs, but also effectively improves the judgment efficiency of the type of metal foreign object.

[0178] Preferably, when a user switches between one-dimensional judgment mode, two-dimensional judgment mode, three-dimensional judgment mode and four-dimensional judgment mode, the display unit of the garment processing device will display the types of metal foreign objects that can be detected for each judgment mode, providing certain convenience for the user to choose.

[0179] Implementation Method 5

[0180] The metal foreign object detection method for clothing processing equipment provided in this embodiment differs from the above embodiments one to four in that the preset judgment data includes multiple numerical ranges, and the type of metal foreign object is inferred by judging the range in which the extracted data features are located.

[0181] The garment processing device includes a one-dimensional judgment mode, in which the type of metallic foreign object can be determined based on a first preset numerical range in which the extracted first data feature is located. The first preset numerical range includes at least two or more numerical ranges, with different numerical ranges corresponding to different types of metallic foreign objects.

[0182] The garment processing device includes a two-dimensional judgment mode. In this mode, the type of metallic foreign object can be determined based on a first preset value range containing the extracted first data feature and a second preset value range containing the extracted second data feature. The second preset value range includes at least two or more value ranges. Similarly, the garment processing device also includes a three-dimensional judgment mode, a four-dimensional judgment mode, a five-dimensional judgment mode, and so on.

[0183] In this embodiment, the type of metallic foreign object is determined by the range of numerical values, which enables the identification of more types of metallic foreign objects.

[0184] Implementation Method Six

[0185] The method for detecting metal foreign objects in clothing processing equipment provided in this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0186] Simulate the release of preset types of metallic foreign objects, extract the data characteristics of the simulated waveform curves of the preset types of metallic foreign objects, and analyze and store them;

[0187] During the subsequent clothing placement process, the data characteristics extracted from actual detection are analyzed and compared with the pre-stored preset judgment data to determine the type of metallic foreign object.

[0188] Furthermore, such as Figure 7 The simulated release of preset types of metallic foreign objects specifically includes:

[0189] Start the simulated delivery program;

[0190] Receive and save the type of metallic foreign object input by the user;

[0191] Acquire the output voltage signal of the metal detection module and record the number of times N is applied;

[0192] Determine whether the number of deliveries N has reached the set number N0. If so, stop the simulated delivery and package the N0 output voltage signal data collected and upload them to the cloud.

[0193] The cloud extracts the data characteristics of the simulated waveform curve for each delivery, calculates the average value, uses it as the preset judgment data for this type of metal foreign object, and sends it to the control module of the clothing processing equipment.

[0194] During the subsequent operation of the garment processing equipment, the control module compares and analyzes the detected and extracted data features with the preset judgment data to determine the type of metallic foreign object.

[0195] For example, a user can simulate dropping their car key, setting it to simulate 5-10 drops and extracting the voltage difference V from the simulated waveform curve during each drop. pp And calculate the average voltage difference V over these 5-10 cycles. pp "" is used as preset judgment data. During the actual operation of the clothing processing equipment, the actual detected voltage difference V is used as the judgment data. pp Approaching the V pp ", or in other words, in the V pp If the setting is within the specified range, it can be inferred that there is a car key among the clothing items placed inside, and the user will be alerted.

[0196] Preferably, the garment processing equipment is equipped with a voice recognition module, which can receive the type of metal foreign object input by the user's voice.

[0197] In this embodiment, the clothing processing device includes an added simulation placement program. Users can simulate the placement of metal foreign objects that might actually end up in their clothing. During the simulation, relevant simulated data features of the specific type of metal foreign object are extracted. These features are then used as preset judgment data in the subsequent actual operation of the clothing processing device to determine the type of metal foreign object actually placed in the clothing. The added simulation placement program makes the detection of metal foreign object types more targeted and accurate, meeting the personalized needs of users.

[0198] Furthermore, the added simulation delivery program can optimize the parameter thresholds of the preset judgment data of the clothing processing equipment, enabling more accurate determination of the types of metal foreign objects actually delivered by the user into the clothing processing equipment.

[0199] Example 5

[0200] like Figures 11 to 12 As shown, this embodiment provides a garment processing device that employs the metal foreign object detection method for garment processing devices described in any of the above embodiments one to four.

[0201] Furthermore, such as Figure 11 As shown, the garment processing device includes a housing 4 and a tray 3 disposed on the housing 4. The tray 3 is provided with a garment loading port 301. The metal detection module 1 includes a transmitting coil 11 and a receiving coil 12 disposed on opposite sides of the garment loading port 301.

[0202] The transmitting coil 11 and the receiving coil 12 are connected to the controller of the clothing processing equipment through wires. The controller uses a microcontroller to control the excitation current to inject an alternating periodic signal into the transmitting coil 11. The signal is transmitted to the receiving coil 12 in the form of electromagnetic waves to generate an induced current. The signal controller collects the changes in the induced electromotive force of the receiving coil 12 to determine whether there are any metal foreign objects passing through the electromagnetic field.

[0203] Furthermore, such as Figure 11 , Figure 12 As shown, the infrared sensing module includes an infrared transmitter 21 and an infrared receiver 22 disposed on opposite sides of the clothing inlet 301. The infrared transmitter 21 also outputs a high-frequency voltage signal through a microcontroller. If clothing blocks the signal, the infrared receiver 22 cannot receive the high-frequency signal, and the signal level changes from high to low, indicating that an object has passed through the clothing inlet 301.

[0204] Preferably, such as Figure 11 , Figure 12 As shown, the transmitting coil 11 and the receiving coil 12 are located on the same horizontal plane. The two coils are installed in the tray 3 of the clothing processing device, located at the left and right ends or the front and back ends of the clothing inlet 301, respectively, and aligned with each other on the same horizontal plane to ensure maximum reception of electromagnetic field variations. The size of the coil area is set according to the recognition accuracy, detection frequency, and power. Considering material saving and module compatibility, the coil is made as small as possible.

[0205] The transmitting coil 11, receiving coil 12, and infrared sensing module can be on the same horizontal plane or at a certain height, requiring adjustment via an algorithm. Preferably, the transmitting coil 11 and receiving coil 12 are at the same height as the infrared sensing module. When the metal detection module 1 and the infrared sensing module simultaneously generate trigger signals, it can be determined that the clothing contains a metal foreign object.

[0206] In this embodiment, the clothing processing equipment further includes an alarm device connected to the controller. The alarm device includes a voice alarm module and a display. When a metal foreign object is detected in the clothing being processed, the voice alarm module issues a voice alarm reminder, and the display shows a fault code.

[0207] Preferably, the alarm device in this embodiment further includes an NFC module and an NFC alarm tag. The NFC module writes the alarm information into the NFC alarm tag and records the alarm time and the information of the metal foreign object. In this way, even if the user is not near the clothing processing equipment and does not hear the alarm, they can still query the alarm information by identifying the NFC alarm tag.

[0208] Furthermore, such as Figure 11 As shown, the transmitting coil 11 and the receiving coil 12 are arc-shaped or strip-shaped structures symmetrically arranged along the radial direction of the clothing inlet 301.

[0209] The clothing processing device provided in this embodiment uses two arc-shaped or strip-shaped coils to detect metal foreign objects in the clothing. Compared with the traditional large ring coil, the coil is smaller and more convenient, has higher adaptability, is easier to install, and has lower cost.

[0210] In this embodiment, the transmitting coil 11 and the receiving coil 12 can be configured as arc-shaped structures that match the shape of the clothing inlet 301, resulting in a higher degree of adaptability. Alternatively, the transmitting coil 11 and the receiving coil 12 can also be configured as straight strip structures, which are simple in shape and easy to process and manufacture. Alternatively, the transmitting coil 11 and the receiving coil 12 can also be configured as outwardly convex arc-shaped structures, with the magnetic field diverging outward, resulting in a larger detection range.

[0211] Furthermore, the lengths of the transmitting coil 11 and the receiving coil 12 are set to L, and the diameter of the clothing inlet 301 is set to D, where L = 1 / 3D. By setting the lengths of the transmitting coil 11 and the receiving coil 12 to approximately one-third of the diameter of the clothing inlet 301, it is possible to ensure that the magnetic field of the metal detection module 1 basically covers the entire clothing inlet 301, while avoiding the problems of excessively long transmitting coils 11 and the receiving coil 12, which would lead to an excessively large size of the entire metal detection module 1, inconvenient installation, and high cost.

[0212] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the line connecting the center of the transmitting coil 11 and the center of the receiving coil 12 passes through the center of the clothing inlet 301, thus avoiding the situation where the transmitting coil 11 and the receiving coil 12 are located at the end of the clothing inlet 301, which would result in an off-center position, a small detection range, and missed detections.

[0213] The clothing processing equipment described in this embodiment of the invention includes, but is not limited to, washing machines, dryers, garment care machines, washer-dryers, and washer-care combos. Preferably, the clothing processing equipment described in this embodiment of the invention is a top-loading washing machine.

[0214] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-described technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A laundry treating apparatus metal foreign substance detection method, characterized by, The clothing processing equipment includes a metal detection module and an infrared sensing module installed at the clothing inlet. The detection method includes: if the metal detection module senses a shaking signal within a set interval after the infrared sensing module generates a trigger signal, it can be inferred that the user is performing the action of throwing clothes into the bin, and the alarm device is controlled to remain in working state. If the metal detection module senses a shaking signal after the set interval following the trigger signal generated by the infrared sensor module, it infers that the user is retrieving clothes and deactivates the alarm device. 2.The laundry treating apparatus metal foreign substance detection method of claim 1, characterized in that, The method for determining the shaking signal includes: If the metal detection module generates more than a set number of continuous waves within a set time period, and the continuous waves show a converging trend, then it can be determined that a shaking signal has been generated. 3.The laundry treating apparatus foreign substance detection method of claim 1, wherein, The set interval time is between 350ms and 450ms. 4.The laundry treating apparatus metal foreign substance detection method of claim 1, wherein, The set interval time is 400ms.

5. The laundry treating apparatus metal foreign substance detecting method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by, Also includes: If the metal detection module generates a metal trigger signal at the same time as, or if the infrared sensing module also generates a trigger signal within a set time difference range, an alarm will be triggered; otherwise, no alarm will be triggered.

6. The laundry treating apparatus metal foreign substance detecting method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by, The alarm device includes an NFC module and an NFC alarm tag, and the method further includes: When the alarm device triggers an alarm, the NFC module writes the alarm information into the NFC alarm tag. The smart terminal then triggers the NFC alarm tag at close range to read the alarm information. 7.The laundry treating apparatus foreign substance detection method of claim 6, wherein, The alarm information includes the alarm time and / or information about the metallic foreign object. 8.The laundry treating apparatus foreign substance detection method of claim 5, wherein, The method for determining whether the metal detection module generates a metal trigger signal includes: Based on the acquired output voltage signal from the metal detection module, a waveform curve is plotted. If it is determined that the metal detection module generates a single signal wave and the output voltage signal reaches the first set voltage threshold; This indicates that a metal trigger signal has been generated. 9.The laundry treating apparatus foreign substance detection method of claim 8, wherein, It also includes the following steps: The data features of the signal wave are extracted, and the extracted data features are compared and analyzed with preset judgment data to determine the type of metallic foreign object. 10.The laundry treating apparatus foreign substance detection method of claim 5, characterized in that, The method for determining whether the metal detection module generates a metal trigger signal includes the following steps: Based on the acquired output voltage signal from the metal detection module, a waveform curve is plotted. If it is determined that the metal detection module generates a single signal wave and the output voltage signal reaches the second set voltage threshold; Further obtain the instantaneous slope value of the output voltage signal of the metal detection module, and compare the instantaneous slope value with the set slope threshold; If the instantaneous slope value is determined to be greater than the set slope threshold, a metal trigger signal can be generated. 11.A laundry treating apparatus, characterized by, The method for detecting metal foreign objects in clothing processing equipment as described in any one of claims 1-4 is adopted. 12.The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, The metal detection module includes a transmitting coil and a receiving coil located on opposite sides of the clothing delivery port. 13.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 12, wherein, The transmitting coil and receiving coil are located on the same horizontal plane and at the same height as the infrared sensing module. 14.The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 12, wherein, The transmitting coil and receiving coil are arc-shaped or strip-shaped structures symmetrically arranged along the radial direction of the clothing insertion port.

15. The garment processing equipment according to claim 14, characterized in that, The lengths of the transmitting and receiving coils are set as L, and the diameter of the clothing insertion port is set as D, where L = 1 / 3D.

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