Wrinkle removal control method for a laundry care machine

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of clothes care, and particularly relates to a wrinkle removal control method of a clothes care machine. The present application aims to solve the problems of poor wrinkle removal effect and high energy consumption of the clothes care machine. To this end, the wrinkle removal control method comprises the following steps: controlling a steam generation device to start and spray steam into a care cavity; simultaneously, before or after the steam generation device is controlled to start, controlling a driving motor to drive a clothes hanging part to rotate forward and backward within a preset angle range; after the running time of the steam generation device reaches a first preset time, controlling the steam generation device to stop running; after the steam generation device stops running, continuing to control the driving motor to run for a second preset time. The clothes hanging part is rotatably arranged at the top of the care cavity, so that the clothes care machine can rotate the clothes to be removed wrinkles by rotating the clothes hanging part during the wrinkle removal process, thereby improving the wrinkle removal effect and reducing the energy consumption of the equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of garment care technology, and more specifically to a wrinkle removal control method for a garment care machine. Background Technology

[0002] A garment care machine is a device that integrates wrinkle removal, odor removal, mite removal, and drying. This type of equipment is popular among users due to its high-end quality, attractive design, and excellent user experience. Wrinkle removal is one of the main functions of a garment care machine. During wrinkle removal, the machine first uses an internal steam generator to spray high-temperature steam to moisten the garment, and then uses a heat pump system to generate hot air for drying until the garment is completely dry.

[0003] However, the high-temperature steam and hot air circulating inside current garment care machines have a fixed path, and the position of the garments to be treated in the care chamber is also fixed. This results in different wrinkle removal effects and drying degrees for different parts of the garments. Not only is the wrinkle removal effect unsatisfactory, but the extended drying time also leads to increased energy consumption.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a new wrinkle control method for garment care machines to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address at least one of the aforementioned problems in the prior art, namely, the poor wrinkle removal effect and high energy consumption of garment care machines, this application provides a wrinkle removal control method for a garment care machine. The garment care machine includes a cabinet, within which are a mounting cavity and a care cavity. A steam generator is installed in the mounting cavity, capable of injecting steam into the care cavity. A garment hanging section is installed in the care cavity, rotatably connected to the top of the care cavity. The garment care machine also includes a drive motor and a transmission mechanism. The drive motor is connected to the garment hanging section via the transmission mechanism and is capable of driving the garment hanging section to rotate in both directions.

[0006] The wrinkle removal control method includes:

[0007] The steam generator is activated to inject steam into the nursing chamber.

[0008] Simultaneously, before, or after the steam generator is started, the drive motor is controlled to rotate the garment hanging part in both directions within a preset angle range.

[0009] After the steam generator has been running for a first preset time, the steam generator is controlled to stop running.

[0010] After the steam generator stops operating, the drive motor is controlled to continue operating for a second preset time.

[0011] In the preferred embodiment of the wrinkle removal control method of the above-mentioned garment care machine, a hot air supply device is further provided inside the installation cavity, and the care cavity is provided with an air outlet and an air return outlet. The hot air supply device can supply hot air into the care cavity, and the wrinkle removal control method further includes:

[0012] After the drive motor continues to run for the second preset time, the hot air supply device is controlled to start and supply hot air into the nursing cavity;

[0013] At the same time as, before, or after the hot air supply device is started, the drive motor is controlled to drive the hanging part to rotate in one direction at a first preset power.

[0014] In the preferred embodiment of the wrinkle removal control method for the aforementioned garment care machine, after the step of "controlling the drive motor to drive the hanging part to rotate unidirectionally with a first preset power", the control method further includes:

[0015] The drive motor is controlled to rotate the garment hanging part in one direction at a second preset power.

[0016] Wherein, the first preset power is greater than the second preset power.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment of the wrinkle removal control method for the aforementioned garment care machine, the hanging section includes a hanging rod and a hanger fixedly connected to the hanging rod. A first humidity sensor is provided on each side of the hanger along its thickness direction. The wrinkle removal control method further includes:

[0018] Obtain the first humidity value and the second humidity value at the hanger;

[0019] Determine the difference between the first humidity value and the second humidity value and compare it with a preset difference threshold.

[0020] If the difference is greater than the preset difference threshold, the drive motor is controlled to rotate the side of the first humidity sensor corresponding to the larger of the first humidity value and the second humidity value toward the air outlet.

[0021] In the preferred embodiment of the wrinkle removal control method of the above-mentioned garment care machine, the wrinkle removal control method further includes:

[0022] If the difference is less than the preset difference threshold, then the larger of the first humidity value and the second humidity value is compared with the first stop humidity threshold.

[0023] Based on the comparison results, the hot air supply device and the motor are selectively controlled to stop operating.

[0024] In the preferred embodiment of the wrinkle removal control method for the aforementioned garment care machine, the step of "selectively controlling both the hot air supply device and the motor to stop operating based on the comparison results" further includes:

[0025] If the larger of the first humidity value and the second humidity value is less than the first stop humidity threshold, then the hot air supply device and the motor are both controlled to stop operating.

[0026] In the preferred embodiment of the wrinkle removal control method for the above-mentioned garment care machine, a second humidity sensor is provided at the return air vent, and the wrinkle removal control method further includes:

[0027] Obtain the third humidity value at the return air vent;

[0028] Determine the magnitude of the third humidity value and the first stop humidity threshold;

[0029] The step of "selectively controlling both the hot air supply device and the motor to stop operating based on the comparison results" further includes:

[0030] If the larger of the first humidity value and the second humidity value is less than the first stop humidity threshold, and the third humidity value is also less than the first stop humidity threshold, then the hot air supply device and the motor are controlled to stop operating.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment of the wrinkle removal control method for the aforementioned garment care machine, the hanging section includes a hanging rod and a hanger fixedly connected to the hanging rod, and a third humidity sensor is provided on the hanger. The wrinkle removal control method further includes:

[0032] Obtain the fourth humidity value at the hanger;

[0033] Determine the magnitude of the fourth humidity value and the second stop humidity threshold;

[0034] When the fourth humidity value is less than the second stop humidity threshold, the hot air supply device and the motor are controlled to stop operating.

[0035] In the preferred embodiment of the wrinkle removal control method of the above-mentioned garment care machine, the first preset time is 2-8 minutes, and the second preset time is 5-15 minutes.

[0036] In the preferred embodiment of the wrinkle removal control method of the above-mentioned garment care machine, the preset angle range is 30-45°.

[0037] It should be noted that, in the preferred technical solution of this application, the garment care machine includes a cabinet, inside which are provided an installation cavity and a care cavity. A steam generator is installed in the installation cavity, capable of injecting steam into the care cavity. A garment hanging section is installed in the care cavity, rotatably connected to the top of the care cavity. The garment care machine also includes a drive motor and a transmission mechanism. The drive motor is connected to the garment hanging section via the transmission mechanism and can drive the garment hanging section to rotate forward and backward. The wrinkle removal control method includes: controlling the steam generator to start and inject steam into the care cavity; controlling the drive motor to drive the garment hanging section to rotate forward and backward within a preset angle range simultaneously, before, or after controlling the steam generator to start; controlling the steam generator to stop operating after the steam generator has run for a first preset time; and continuing to control the drive motor to run for a second preset time after the steam generator has stopped operating.

[0038] The garment hanging section is rotatably mounted on top of the care chamber, allowing the garment to be wrinkled during the wrinkle removal process. This rotation improves the wrinkle removal effect and reduces energy consumption. Specifically, by controlling the drive motor to rotate the hanging section forward and backward within a preset angle range simultaneously with, before, or after steam injection, the garment is brought into full contact with the steam and rapidly and repeatedly shaken. The wrinkles are removed through inertia and shaking. Even after the steam generator stops operating, the drive motor continues to run, further enhancing the wrinkle removal effect by continuing to shake the already fully wetted garment.

[0039] Furthermore, by controlling the hot air supply device to start after the drive motor continues to run for a second preset time, and controlling the drive motor to drive the hanging part to rotate in one direction with a first preset power, the clothes can be further enhanced to remove wrinkles while completing the initial drying of the clothes.

[0040] Furthermore, by controlling the drive motor to rotate the hanging part in one direction with a first preset power and then controlling the drive motor to rotate the hanging part in one direction with a smaller second preset power, the clothes can be dried at a slower speed, ensuring the drying effect.

[0041] Furthermore, by acquiring a first humidity value and a second humidity value during the drying process, and controlling the drive motor to rotate the side of the first humidity sensor corresponding to the larger of the first humidity value and the second humidity value toward the air outlet when the difference between the two is greater than a preset difference threshold, this application can accurately dry clothes by turning the side with greater humidity toward the air outlet and quickly reducing the humidity difference between the two sides of the clothes.

[0042] Furthermore, when the difference between the first humidity value and the second humidity value is less than a preset difference threshold, the larger of the two humidity values ​​is compared with the first stop humidity threshold. When the larger of the two values ​​is less than the first stop humidity threshold, the hot air supply device and the motor are controlled to stop running. This allows for accurate determination of the dryness of the clothes and timely stopping of the hot air supply device and the motor when the clothes are dry, thus saving energy.

[0043] Furthermore, by obtaining the third humidity value at the return air vent and combining the third humidity value with the first stop humidity threshold, it is further determined whether to stop the hot air supply device and the motor. The wrinkle removal control method of this application can also improve the accuracy of the clothing drying judgment through dual judgment. Attached Figure Description

[0044] The wrinkle removal control method of the garment care machine of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] In the attached image:

[0046] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of the garment care machine of this application;

[0047] Figure 2 This is a partial exploded view (I) of the garment care machine of this application;

[0048] Figure 3 This is a partial exploded view (II) of the garment care machine of this application;

[0049] Figure 4 This is a top sectional view of the garment care machine of this application;

[0050] Figure 5 This is a structural diagram of the clothes hanger of the garment care machine of this application;

[0051] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the wrinkle removal control method for the garment care machine of this application;

[0052] Figure 7 This is a logic diagram of one possible implementation of the wrinkle removal control method for the garment care machine of this application.

[0053] List of reference numerals

[0054] 1. Cabinet body; 11. Nursing cavity; 111. Round hole; 112. Boss; 1121. Second annular groove; 12. Mounting cavity; 13. Mounting bracket; 14. Air outlet; 15. Air return outlet; 2. Rotating top plate; 21. Plate body; 22. Flanged edge; 221. First annular groove; 23. Rotating shaft; 3. Drive mechanism; 31. Drive motor; 32. Transmission assembly; 4. Clothes hanging part; 41. Hanging rod; 42. Clothes hanger; 421. First humidity sensor; 4211. Metal sheet; 43. Conduit; 5. Rolling element; 6. Shelf. Detailed Implementation

[0055] Preferred embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. For example, although the steps are described in a sequential order in the following embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that, in order to achieve the effects of this embodiment, different steps need not be executed in such an order; they can be executed simultaneously (in parallel) or in a reverse order. These simple variations are all within the scope of protection of this application.

[0056] It should be noted that in the description of this application, terms such as "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," indicating directions or positional relationships, are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These are used merely for ease of description and do not indicate or imply that the device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation; therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0057] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0058] First refer to Figures 1 to 5 This application describes one possible implementation of the garment care machine.

[0059] like Figure 1As shown, the garment care machine of this application includes a cabinet 1, a cabinet door, a hot air supply device, a steam generator, a hanging section 4, and a shelf 6. The cabinet 1 contains a care chamber 11 and a mounting chamber 12. In this application, the care chamber 11 is located at the upper part of the cabinet 1, and the mounting chamber 12 is located at the lower part of the cabinet 1. The heat pump system and the steam generator are located in the mounting chamber 12, while the hanging section 4 and the shelf 6 are located in the care chamber 11. The hanging section 4 is used to hang garments, and the shelf 6 is used to lay garments flat. An air outlet 14 and an air return vent 15 are provided at the bottom of the care chamber 11. The care chamber 11 is connected to the mounting chamber 12 through the air outlet 14 and the air return vent 15, forming an air circulation loop. The high-temperature steam generated by the steam generator can be injected into the care chamber 11 through the air outlet 14 to care for the clothes in the care chamber 11. The hot air supply device is a heat pump system. When it is running, the processed dry hot air is sent into the care chamber 11 through the air outlet 14 to dry the clothes. During the drying process, the dry hot air takes away the moisture from the clothes and becomes humid cold air, which returns to the installation chamber 12 through the return air outlet 15 and is processed into dry hot air again by the heat pump system.

[0060] The specific working principles of the steam generating device and heat pump system described above are common knowledge in the field and will not be repeated in this application.

[0061] The garment care machine also includes a rotating top plate 2 and a drive mechanism 3. The rotating top plate 2 is rotatably mounted on the top of the care chamber 11, and the garment hanging part 4 is connected to the rotating top plate 2. The drive mechanism 3 is connected to the rotating top plate 2 in a transmission manner, and the drive mechanism 3 is configured to drive the rotating top plate 2 to rotate in both directions.

[0062] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The top wall of the nursing cavity 11 has a circular hole 111, and the rotating top plate 2 is rotatably embedded in the circular hole 111. Specifically, the rotating top plate 2 includes a plate body 21 and a flange 22 provided along the outer edge of the top of the plate body 21. The circular hole 111 is embedded in the outer circumferential side of the plate body 21, and the flange 22 is rotatably provided on the top wall at the outer edge of the circular hole 111. A first annular groove 221 is provided on the lower side of the flange 22, and an annular boss 112 is formed upward around the outer edge of the circular hole 111 on the top wall. A second annular groove 1121 is provided on the upper side of the annular boss 112. The first annular groove 221 and the second annular groove 1121 form an annular track, and a rolling element 5 is provided in the annular track. In this application, the rolling element 5 is preferably a ball bearing, the second annular groove 1121 is a through groove, and multiple mounting seats are provided in the first annular groove 221, with each ball bearing embedded in one mounting seat. Thus, as the rotating top plate 2 rotates, the balls rotate within the mounting base and roll around the second annular groove 1121.

[0063] By embedding the rotating top plate 2 within the circular hole 111, smooth rotation is ensured. A flange 22 is rotatably mounted on the boss 112 on the top wall, and an annular track is provided between the flange 22 and the boss 112, with rolling elements 5 within the track. This reduces the rotational resistance of the rotating top plate 2 and decreases the power requirement of the drive motor 31. A mounting base is provided within the first annular groove 221, ensuring the uniform arrangement of the rolling elements 5 and improving the motion stability of the rotating top plate 2.

[0064] See also Figure 2 A rotating shaft 23 is located at the upper center of the disk body 21. The drive mechanism 3 includes a drive motor 31 and a transmission assembly 32. The drive motor 31 is fixed to the outer side of the top wall and is connected to the rotating shaft 23 via the transmission assembly 32. Specifically, a mounting bracket 13 is located at one corner of the outer side of the top wall. The drive motor 31 is fixedly mounted on the mounting bracket 13. After installation, the drive motor 31 is inverted on the mounting bracket 13, with its shaft located below the mounting bracket 13. The rotating shaft 23 includes a bearing section and a connecting gear section. The transmission assembly 32 is a gear-belt pair. The gear is mounted on the output shaft of the drive motor 31, and the transmission belt meshes with both the gear and the connecting gear section. Preferably, the drive motor 31 is a servo motor, which can control the rotation angle and direction of the rotating top disk 2.

[0065] By placing the drive assembly on the outer side of the top wall, it does not occupy space within the nursing cavity 11. Stable transmission can be achieved by using a gear-belt pair as the transmission assembly 32. The control precision of the rotating top plate 2 can be improved by employing a servo motor.

[0066] See Figures 3 to 5 The hanging section 4 includes a hanging rod 41 and hangers 42. The hanging rod 41 is fixedly mounted on the bottom surface of the rotating top plate 2, and the hangers 42 are connected to the hanging rod 41. In this application, the hanging rod 41 is a U-shaped rod, and both ends of the U-shaped rod are fixedly connected to the bottom of the plate body 21 by means of screws, snaps, or hooks. Five hangers 42 are provided, and the five hangers 42 are located at the bottom of the horizontal bar of the hanging rod 41.

[0067] Preferably, a first humidity sensor 421 is provided on the hanger 42, and the hanger 42 is arranged along its thickness direction (i.e., Figure 4 A first humidity sensor 421 is provided on each side (shown in the left-right direction). In this application, the first humidity sensor 421 is a bimetallic strip type first humidity sensor 421, such as... Figure 5 As shown, each first humidity sensor 421 includes two metal pieces 4211, which are disposed at both ends of the hanger 42 along the length of the hanger 42.

[0068] When clothes with a certain level of humidity are hung on hanger 42, the clothes come into contact with the two metal strips on hanger 42, forming a circuit between the two metal strips and the clothes, and a current flows through the circuit. Different humidity levels of the clothes result in different resistance values ​​between the two metal strips, and consequently, different current values ​​in the circuit. The humidity of the clothes is indirectly determined by the magnitude of the current.

[0069] See Figure 4 The hanging rod 41 is a hollow rod, and a conduit 43 is provided in the middle of the hanging rod 41. The rotating shaft 23 is a hollow shaft. The two ends of the conduit 43 are connected to the hanging rod 41 and the rotating shaft 23 respectively. In this way, the wires of the two metal strips can be passed through the top of the clothes hanger 42 into the hollow hanging rod 41, and then guided to the control module of the garment care machine through the conduit 43 and the hollow rotating shaft 23.

[0070] In this application, at least one of the five hangers 42 is equipped with a first humidity sensor 421. For example, the hanger 42 located in the middle of the hanging rod 41 is equipped with the first humidity sensor 421, and this hanger 42 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the hanging rod 41 and cannot be detached, while the other four hangers 42 are detachably connected to the hanging rod 41. Alternatively, all five hangers 42 can be equipped with the first humidity sensor 421, in which case all five hangers 42 need to be fixedly connected to the bottom of the hanging rod 41.

[0071] By installing a first humidity sensor 421 on the clothes hanger 42, the humidity of the clothes can be detected during operation, improving the accuracy of operation control. A conduit 43 is installed in the middle of the hanging rod 41, and the two ends of the conduit 43 are connected to the hollow hanging rod 41 and the hollow rotating shaft 23 respectively, facilitating the wiring of the first humidity sensor 421. By installing a first humidity sensor 421 on each side of the clothes hanger 42 along its thickness direction, the humidity on both sides of the clothes can be detected simultaneously, and targeted drying control can be performed based on the humidity on both sides of the clothes, achieving precise control.

[0072] To achieve the following control method, this application also provides a second humidity sensor at the return air vent. The second humidity sensor can be a capacitive humidity sensor or a resistive humidity sensor, and this application does not limit the type of sensor.

[0073] When the care machine is working, the drive mechanism 3 drives the rotating top plate 2 to rotate, which in turn drives the hanging part 4 connected to it to rotate, thereby enabling the clothes hanging on the hanging part 4 to rotate. In this way, during wrinkle removal or drying care, the clothes can be cared for in all directions by rotating them.

[0074] It should be noted that the above preferred embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Without departing from the principles of this application, those skilled in the art can adjust the above settings to make this application applicable to more specific application scenarios.

[0075] For example, although the above embodiment is described by rotating the top plate 2 to drive the hanging part 4 to rotate, this embodiment is not the only one. Those skilled in the art can use other settings to replace it, as long as the replaced embodiment can achieve the purpose of driving the hanging part 4 to rotate. For example, the hanging rod 41 can be equipped with a drive shaft, which passes directly through the top of the nursing cavity 11 and is connected to the drive mechanism 3 to realize the rotation of the hanging rod 41.

[0076] For example, in an alternative embodiment, although the rotating top plate 2 is described as being located in the circular hole 111 at the top of the nursing cavity 11, this is not limiting. The rotating top plate 2 can be located in any position, as long as it can drive the hanging part 4 to rotate through its own rotation. For example, the rotating top plate 2 can also be suspended inside the nursing cavity 11, with its rotating shaft 23 extending through the through hole at the top of the nursing cavity 11 and being connected to the drive mechanism 3 for transmission.

[0077] For example, in another alternative embodiment, the drive motor 31 of the drive mechanism 3 is described as being mounted on the mounting bracket at the top of the nursing cavity 11. However, this arrangement is not unique. As long as the drive motor 31 can effectively drive the rotating top plate 2 to rotate, it can be set in any position.

[0078] For example, in another alternative embodiment, the transmission component 32 is described as a gear drive belt. However, this embodiment is not fixed. In other embodiments, those skilled in the art can also use gear sets, pulley drive belt pairs, gear drive chain pairs, etc. to replace the gear drive belt.

[0079] For example, in another alternative embodiment, although the rotating top plate 2 is described as having a structure of a plate body 21 and a flange 22, its specific arrangement is not limiting. Those skilled in the art can adjust it, as long as the rotating top plate 2 can be rotatably mounted on the top of the nursing cavity 11. For example, the rotating top plate 2 can be a circular plate, or an annular protrusion can be formed on the underside of the circular plate as a rotating guide rail, etc. Correspondingly, the protrusion structure on the outer wall of the top of the nursing cavity 11 can also be replaced with a groove, or it can be omitted, etc.

[0080] For example, although the rolling element 5 is described using a ball as an example, it is obvious that the form of the rolling element 5 is not limited to this. In other embodiments, those skilled in the art can also use rollers instead, or omit the ball setting. Correspondingly, the mounting base can also be selectively omitted based on the actual application scenario.

[0081] For example, in an alternative embodiment, the hanging part 4 may include only the hanging rod 41 or only the clothes hanger 42, in addition to the above embodiments.

[0082] Similarly, when setting the first humidity sensor 421, the number can be as simple as one, or more. The first humidity sensor 421 can be replaced with any other form besides the bimetallic strip type, and such replacement does not deviate from the principle of this application. The placement of the first humidity sensor 421 can also be adjusted by those skilled in the art, as long as its placement position can effectively detect the humidity of the clothing.

[0083] For example, the arrangement of the aforementioned components such as the hot air supply device, steam generator, and shelf 6 is not fixed, and those skilled in the art can select them based on specific application scenarios. For instance, the aforementioned hot air supply device can also be a PTC heater, and the shelf 6 may not be included.

[0084] Of course, the alternative implementation methods described above, as well as the alternative implementation methods and preferred implementation methods, can be used in combination to create new implementation methods that are suitable for more specific application scenarios.

[0085] Next, refer to Figure 6 This paper describes the wrinkle removal control method of the garment care machine of this application. Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the wrinkle removal control method for the garment care machine of this application.

[0086] like Figure 6 As shown, the wrinkle removal control method of the garment care machine of this application includes:

[0087] S101. Control the steam generator to start and spray steam into the care chamber; for example, after the user hangs the clothes to be treated on the hanger and selects the wrinkle removal function, the control module of the care machine can control the steam generator to start and run, and spray high-temperature steam into the care chamber through the air outlet.

[0088] It should be noted that the aforementioned control module may physically be the control chip of the garment care machine itself, a controller specifically designed to execute the methods of this application, or a functional module or functional unit of a general controller.

[0089] S103. Simultaneously, before, or after the steam generator is started, the drive motor is controlled to rotate the garment hanging section in both directions within a preset angle range. For example, the drive motor is controlled to run simultaneously with the steam generator, causing the garment hanging section to rotate in both directions. The preset angle range is preferably 30-45°. Taking 30° as an example, this means the garment hanging section rotates repeatedly within a 30° angle range. During this time, the garments are repeatedly shaken by the movement of the hanging section, and the high-temperature steam is evenly sprayed onto the garments. Of course, the drive motor can also be controlled to run before or after the steam generator is started; those skilled in the art can flexibly choose the specific timing for starting either device.

[0090] S105. After the steam generator has been running for a first preset time, control the steam generator to stop running. For example, the first preset time is preferably any value between 2 and 8 minutes. Taking 5 minutes as an example, control the steam generator to stop running after 5 minutes of steam injection.

[0091] S107. After the steam generator stops running, the drive motor is controlled to continue running for a second preset time. For example, the second preset time is preferably 5-15 minutes. Taking 10 minutes as an example, after the steam generator stops running, the drive motor is controlled to continue running for the second preset time. The drive motor drives the hanging part to rotate repeatedly, thereby causing the hanging part to shake the clothes repeatedly.

[0092] The garment hanging section is rotatably mounted on top of the care chamber, allowing the garment to be wrinkled during the wrinkle removal process. This rotation improves the wrinkle removal effect and reduces energy consumption. Specifically, by controlling the drive motor to rotate the hanging section forward and backward within a preset angle range simultaneously with, before, or after steam injection, the garment is brought into full contact with the steam and rapidly and repeatedly shaken. The wrinkles are removed through inertia and shaking. Even after the steam generator stops operating, the drive motor continues to run, further enhancing the wrinkle removal effect by continuing to shake the already fully wetted garment.

[0093] The following describes possible implementations of the wrinkle control method of this application.

[0094] In one possible implementation, the wrinkle removal control method further includes: after the drive motor continues to run for a second preset time, controlling the hot air supply device to start and supplying hot air into the nursing cavity; while, before, or after controlling the hot air supply device to start, controlling the drive motor to drive the hanging part to rotate unidirectionally with a first preset power; after controlling the drive motor to drive the hanging part to rotate unidirectionally with the first preset power, controlling the drive motor to drive the hanging part to rotate unidirectionally with a second preset power; wherein the first preset power is greater than the second preset power.

[0095] For example, after the drive motor has run for a second preset time, the clothes have undergone preliminary wrinkle removal. Since the clothes have been sprayed with a large amount of steam, a drying step is required. At this time, the heat pump system is activated to provide dry hot air to the care chamber, while the drive motor is controlled to rotate the hanging section in one direction at a first preset power. In this application, the first preset power is 50W. The drive motor rotates the hanging section in one direction at 50W, causing the clothes to rotate rapidly and uniformly in a circular motion within the care chamber. Due to the high speed, the clothes are initially dried while the wrinkle removal effect is enhanced. Of course, the drive motor can also be controlled to run before or after the hot air supply device is activated; those skilled in the art can flexibly choose the specific timing for activating either device.

[0096] The rapid rotation process is typically used primarily for enhanced wrinkle removal, thus only providing initial drying. Therefore, after the clothes have been rotating in one direction for a certain period, such as 2-5 minutes, the drive motor is further controlled to rotate the hanging section in one direction at a second preset power. In this application, the second preset power is taken as 30W. With the drive motor operating at 30W, the clothes rotate slowly and uniformly in the drying chamber under the influence of the hanging section. Due to the slow speed, the clothes are dried evenly.

[0097] After the drive motor continues running for a second preset time, the hot air supply device is activated, and the drive motor is controlled to rotate the hanging section in one direction at a first preset power. This allows for further enhanced wrinkle removal while simultaneously completing the initial drying of the garments. Alternatively, after the drive motor rotates the hanging section in one direction at the first preset power, controlling the drive motor to rotate it at a lower second preset power allows for a slower drying process, ensuring optimal drying results.

[0098] In one possible implementation, the wrinkle removal control method further includes: acquiring a first humidity value and a second humidity value at the hanger; determining the magnitude of the difference between the first humidity value and the second humidity value and a preset difference threshold; if the difference is greater than the preset difference threshold, controlling the drive motor to rotate the side of the first humidity sensor corresponding to the larger of the first humidity value and the second humidity value toward the air outlet; if the difference is less than the preset difference threshold, comparing the larger of the first humidity value and the second humidity value with a first stop humidity threshold; and based on the comparison result, selectively controlling both the hot air supply device and the motor to stop operating.

[0099] Specifically, during the slow, even drying process of the clothes, two first humidity sensors on the clothes hanger detect the humidity on the front and back sides of the clothes respectively, and compare the difference between the two with a preset difference threshold to determine whether there is a significant difference in humidity between the front and back sides of the clothes. In this application, preferably, the larger of the first humidity value and the second humidity value is subtracted from the smaller value, and the difference is compared with the preset difference threshold. Of course, those skilled in the art can also use absolute values ​​or directly calculate the difference and compare it with a preset difference range to determine the magnitude of the difference.

[0100] If the difference between the two values ​​is greater than a preset difference threshold, it indicates that the humidity difference between the two sides of the garment is significant, resulting in one side being dry while the other side remains very humid. In this case, the drive motor is controlled to rotate the side of the garment with the higher humidity value (first or second) to face the air outlet, thus directing the side with higher humidity towards the air outlet to enhance drying of that side until the difference between the two values ​​is less than the preset difference threshold.

[0101] Conversely, if the difference is less than the preset difference threshold, it proves that the drying effect on the front and back sides of the clothes is similar, and it can be further determined whether the drying completion condition has been met. At this time, the larger of the first humidity value and the second humidity value is compared with the first stop humidity threshold.

[0102] In this application, the first stop humidity threshold RH can be set to 20-25%, taking 23% as an example. When the larger of the first humidity value and the second humidity value is greater than 23%, it indicates that the drying end condition has not yet been met. At this time, the drive motor continues to drive the clothes rack to rotate unidirectionally at the second preset power to dry the clothes. If the larger of the first humidity value and the second humidity value is less than the first stop humidity threshold, it indicates that the drying end condition has been met. At this time, the hot air supply device and the motor are both stopped, ending the entire wrinkle removal process.

[0103] By acquiring a first humidity value and a second humidity value during the drying process, and controlling the drive motor to rotate the side of the first humidity sensor corresponding to the larger of the first and second humidity values ​​toward the air outlet when the difference between the two values ​​exceeds a preset difference threshold, this application enables precise drying of clothing by directing the side with higher humidity toward the air outlet, quickly reducing the humidity difference between the two sides of the clothing. Furthermore, by comparing the larger of the two humidity values ​​with a first stop humidity threshold when the difference between the first and second humidity values ​​is less than the preset difference threshold, and controlling the hot air supply device and motor to stop operating when the larger value is less than the first stop humidity threshold, this method accurately determines the dryness of the clothing and promptly stops the hot air supply device and motor when the clothing is drying, saving energy.

[0104] In an alternative embodiment, when a second humidity sensor is installed at the return air vent, the wrinkle removal control method further includes: acquiring a third humidity value at the return air vent; and determining the magnitude of the third humidity value and a first stop humidity threshold. Based on the comparison result, the step of selectively controlling both the hot air supply device and the motor to stop operating further includes: if the larger of the first humidity value and the second humidity value is less than the first stop humidity threshold, and the third humidity value is also less than the first stop humidity threshold, then controlling the hot air supply device and the motor to stop operating.

[0105] When there are clothes to be processed not only hanging in the treatment chamber but also on the rack, relying solely on the two first humidity sensors on the rack is insufficient to accurately determine whether the drying end condition has been met. In this case, a second humidity sensor located at the return air vent acquires a third humidity value at the return air vent, and compares this third humidity value with a first stop humidity threshold. This third humidity value is then combined with the results of the first and second humidity value assessments to jointly determine whether the drying end condition has been met. In other words, provided the difference between the first and second humidity values ​​is less than a preset difference threshold, and the larger of the first and second humidity values ​​is less than the first stop humidity threshold, and if the third humidity value is also less than the first stop humidity threshold, then it can be determined that the drying end condition has been met. At this point, the hot air supply device and motor are stopped, ending the entire wrinkle removal process.

[0106] By obtaining the third humidity value at the return air vent and combining the third humidity value with the first stop humidity threshold, it is further determined whether to stop the hot air supply device and the motor. The wrinkle removal control method of this application can also improve the accuracy of clothing drying judgment through dual judgment.

[0107] In an alternative implementation, when only a third humidity sensor is provided on the hanger, the wrinkle removal control method further includes: acquiring a fourth humidity value at the hanger; determining the magnitude of the fourth humidity value and a second stop humidity threshold; and controlling the hot air supply device and the motor to stop operating when the fourth humidity value is less than the second stop humidity threshold.

[0108] When only one third humidity sensor is installed on the clothes hanger, it is impossible to determine the humidity difference between the two sides of the garment. In this case, the determination of whether the drying end condition has been met is based solely on the humidity value obtained from the third humidity sensor. The specific determination process is similar to that described above and will not be repeated here. The second stop humidity threshold can be set to the same as or different from the first stop humidity threshold, and those skilled in the art can choose according to the specific scenario.

[0109] Of course, if only one third humidity sensor is installed on the clothes hanger, the humidity value at the return air vent can be combined with the third humidity sensor to determine whether the drying process has ended. The specific determination method is similar to that described above and will not be repeated here.

[0110] The following is combined Figure 7 The following describes one possible working process of the wrinkle removal control method of this application. Figure 7 This is a logic diagram of one possible implementation of the wrinkle removal control method for the garment care machine of this application.

[0111] like Figure 7 As shown, in one possible implementation process:

[0112] First, execute S201 to start the steam generator and spray high-temperature steam into the nursing chamber. At the same time, control the drive motor to run in both forward and reverse directions and control the hanging part to rotate repeatedly within a 30° angle range to wet and shake the clothes to remove wrinkles. Then execute S202.

[0113] S202, determine if the total running time T≥5min is true? If true, proceed to S203; otherwise, if false, return to continue executing S201.

[0114] S203, control the steam generator to stop running and control the drive motor to continue running to continue shaking and wrinkle removal of the clothes, and then execute S204.

[0115] S204. Determine if the total running time T ≥ 15 min is true. If true, proceed to step S205; otherwise, if false, return to continue executing S203.

[0116] S205 controls the drive motor to rotate unidirectionally at a power of 50W, driving the hanging part to rotate at a relatively fast speed in a uniform circular motion, further removing wrinkles from the clothes and achieving preliminary drying, and then executes S206.

[0117] S206, Determine if the total running time T≥20min is true. If true, proceed to step S207; otherwise, if false, return to continue executing S205.

[0118] S207 controls the drive motor to rotate unidirectionally at a power of 30W, driving the hanging part to make a uniform circular motion at a relatively slow speed to dry the clothes evenly, and then executes S208.

[0119] S208, obtain the first humidity value RH1 of the first side of the garment and the second humidity value RH2 of the second side, and then execute S209.

[0120] S209, determine whether the absolute value of the difference between the first humidity value RH1 and the second humidity value RH2, |RH1-RH2|, is greater than or equal to △RH. If it is true, proceed to S210; otherwise, if it is not true, proceed to S213. Wherein, △RH is a preset difference threshold.

[0121] S210, determine whether RH1 > RH2 is true? If true, execute S211; otherwise, if false, execute S212.

[0122] S211, control the drive motor to rotate to the first preset angle so that the first side of the clothes faces the air outlet, and strengthen the drying of the first side, and then return to execute S208.

[0123] S212, control the drive motor to rotate to the second preset angle so that the second side of the clothes faces the air outlet, enhance the drying of the second side, and then return to execute S208.

[0124] S213, determine whether the larger value of RH1 and RH2, MAX[RH1,RH2], ≤ RH is true. If true, proceed to S214; otherwise, if false, return to S207. Here, RH is the stop humidity threshold.

[0125] S214, determine whether the third humidity value RH3 ≤ RH at the return air vent is true? If true, proceed to S215; otherwise, if false, return to S207.

[0126] S215, controls the steam generator and drive motor to stop operating.

[0127] Those skilled in the art will understand that although some embodiments described herein include certain features included in other embodiments but not others, combinations of features from different embodiments are intended to be within the scope of this application and form different embodiments. For example, any of the claimed embodiments in the claims of this application can be used in any combination.

[0128] It should be noted that although the detailed steps of the method of this application have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art can combine, split and rearrange the above steps without departing from the basic principles of this application. Such modified technical solutions do not change the basic concept of this application and therefore fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0129] The technical solutions of this application have been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of this application is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of this application, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after these changes or substitutions will all fall within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A wrinkle removal control method of a laundry care machine, characterized by, The clothes care machine comprises a cabinet, a mounting cavity and a care cavity are arranged in the cabinet, a steam generating device is arranged in the mounting cavity, the steam generating device can spray steam into the care cavity, a clothes hanging part is arranged in the care cavity, the clothes hanging part is rotatably connected to the top of the care cavity, the clothes care machine further comprises a driving motor and a transmission mechanism, the driving motor is in transmission connection with the clothes hanging part through the transmission mechanism and can drive the clothes hanging part to rotate forward and backward, a hot air supply device is further arranged in the mounting cavity, the care cavity is provided with an air outlet and an air return port, the hot air supply device can supply hot air into the care cavity, the clothes hanging part comprises a clothes hanging rod and a clothes hanger fixedly connected to the clothes hanging rod, one first humidity sensor is arranged on each side of the clothes hanger along the thickness direction of the clothes hanger, The wrinkle removal control method comprises: controlling the steam generating device to start and spray steam into the care cavity; controlling the driving motor to drive the clothes hanging part to rotate forward and backward within a preset angle range at the same time, before or after the steam generating device is controlled to start; controlling the steam generating device to stop running after the running time of the steam generating device reaches a first preset time; controlling the driving motor to continue running for a second preset time after the steam generating device stops running; The wrinkle removal control method further comprises: obtaining a first humidity value and a second humidity value at the clothes hanger; determining the size of the difference between the first humidity value and the second humidity value and a preset difference threshold value; if the difference is greater than the preset difference threshold value, controlling the driving motor to drive the side where the first humidity sensor corresponding to the larger value of the first humidity value and the second humidity value is located to rotate to face the air outlet.

2. The wrinkle removal control method of a clothes care machine according to claim 1, characterized by, The wrinkle removal control method further comprises: controlling the hot air supply device to start and supply hot air into the care cavity after the driving motor continues to run for the second preset time; controlling the driving motor to drive the clothes hanging part to rotate unidirectionally at a first preset power at the same time, before or after the hot air supply device is controlled to start.

3. The wrinkle removal control method of a clothes care machine according to claim 2, characterized by, After the step of "controlling the driving motor to drive the clothes hanging part to rotate unidirectionally at a first preset power", the control method further comprises: controlling the driving motor to drive the clothes hanging part to rotate unidirectionally at a second preset power; wherein the first preset power is greater than the second preset power.

4. The wrinkle removal control method of a clothes care machine according to claim 1, characterized by, The wrinkle removal control method further comprises: if the difference is less than the preset difference threshold value, comparing the larger value of the first humidity value and the second humidity value with a first stop humidity threshold value; based on the comparison result, selectively controlling the hot air supply device and the driving motor to stop running.

5. The wrinkle removal control method of a clothes care machine according to claim 4, characterized by, The step of "based on the comparison result, selectively controlling the hot air supply device and the driving motor to stop running" further comprises: if the larger value of the first humidity value and the second humidity value is less than the first stop humidity threshold value, controlling the hot air supply device and the driving motor to stop running.

6. The wrinkle removal control method of a clothes care machine according to claim 4, characterized by, The air return port is provided with a second humidity sensor, and the wrinkle removal control method further comprises: acquiring a third humidity value at the return air outlet; judging the third humidity value and the first stop humidity threshold value; the step of "selectively controlling the hot air supply device and the driving motor to stop running based on the comparison result" further comprises: if the larger one of the first humidity value and the second humidity value is less than the first stop humidity threshold value, and the third humidity value is also less than the first stop humidity threshold value, then controlling the hot air supply device and the driving motor to stop running.

7. The wrinkle removal control method of a clothes care machine according to claim 2 or 3, characterized by, The clothes hanging part comprises a clothes hanging rod and a clothes hanger fixedly connected to the clothes hanging rod, and a third humidity sensor is arranged on the clothes hanger. acquiring a fourth humidity value at the clothes hanger; judging the fourth humidity value and the second stop humidity threshold value; when the fourth humidity value is less than the second stop humidity threshold value, controlling the hot air supply device and the driving motor to stop running.

8. The wrinkle removal control method of a clothes care machine according to claim 1, characterized by, The first preset time is 2-8 min, and the second preset time is 5-15 min.

9. The wrinkle removal control method of a clothes care machine according to claim 1, characterized by, The preset angle range is 30-45°.

Images