A washing machine

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application disclose a washing machine. The washing machine comprises a drum, a dirt measuring device and a controller, wherein: the dirt measuring device is configured to measure dirt deposition information of a dirt layer in the drum; and the controller is configured to: acquire the dirt deposition information measured by the dirt measuring device; acquire a dirt deposition image in the drum if it is determined that the dirt deposition in the drum reaches a preset deposition amount or more based on the dirt deposition information; generate prompt information based on the dirt deposition information and the dirt deposition image, and send the prompt information to a user terminal to prompt the user to clean the washing machine. In this way, on the one hand, the user can intuitively monitor the dirt deposition in the drum of the washing machine, and on the other hand, the user can clean the washing machine in time, thereby avoiding the bacteria breeding caused by the dirt deposition in the drum and affecting the user experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of smart home appliance technology, specifically to a washing machine capable of monitoring information on dirt inside the washing machine. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous development of technology and users' pursuit of a better and more convenient life, washing machines have emerged, solving the tiring housework of washing clothes in people's daily lives, freeing people's hands, and thus washing machines have entered thousands of households.

[0003] Self-cleaning functions have become standard in washing machines. However, due to their limited cleaning capabilities, dirt accumulates on the inner and outer drums after prolonged use, proving difficult to remove and leading to bacterial growth, clothing contamination, and hygiene issues. Therefore, the cleanliness of the washing machine is directly related to user health. While various automatic cleaning washing machines are available, they primarily rely on water rinsing. This leaves unsanitary areas untouched and the rinsing force is relatively weak, leaving dirt adhering to the drum walls. Furthermore, users cannot visually assess the extent of dirt buildup or the degree of cleanliness, making it difficult to determine when to clean the machine and negatively impacting the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the aforementioned technical problems, embodiments of this application provide a washing machine.

[0005] The washing machine provided in the first embodiment of this application includes a drum, a dirt measuring device, and a controller, wherein: the dirt measuring device is used to measure dirt deposition information of the dirt layer inside the drum; the controller is configured to perform the following steps: acquiring the dirt deposition information measured by the dirt measuring device; if it is determined based on the dirt deposition information that the amount of dirt deposition inside the drum reaches or exceeds a preset deposition amount, acquiring a dirt deposition image inside the drum; generating a prompt message based on the dirt deposition information and the dirt deposition image, and sending the prompt message to a user terminal to prompt the user to clean the washing machine.

[0006] In the first embodiment of this application, the washing machine includes a drum, a dirt testing device, and a controller. The dirt measuring device is used to measure dirt deposition information in the dirt layer inside the drum. If the amount of dirt deposition in the drum is determined to be above a preset amount based on the dirt deposition information, an image of the dirt deposition in the drum is acquired. This achieves real-time monitoring of dirt deposition in the washing machine drum and, by acquiring an image of the dirt deposition when the amount of dirt deposition exceeds the preset amount, allows the user to more intuitively understand the dirt deposition situation inside the drum. Then, based on the dirt deposition information and the dirt deposition image, a corresponding prompt message is generated and sent to the user terminal to remind the user to clean the washing machine. This ensures that the user can clean the washing machine in a timely manner, preventing dirt deposition in the drum from causing bacterial growth and affecting the user experience.

[0007] According to the second embodiment of this application, the dirt measuring device in the washing machine includes a light source and an infrared sensor. The light source is used to heat the dirt layer inside the drum, and the infrared sensor is used to collect a temperature distribution image of the surface of the dirt layer inside the drum. The controller is further configured to perform the following steps: when the washing machine starts running, turn on the light source; if the light source is turned on for a preset duration or longer, collect a temperature distribution image of the heated dirt layer surface through the infrared sensor, and use the temperature distribution image as dirt deposition information.

[0008] In the second embodiment of this application, the dirt measuring device includes a light source and an infrared sensor. The light source is used to heat the dirt layer inside the washing machine drum, and the infrared sensor collects a temperature distribution image of the heated dirt surface. The controller is also configured to perform the following steps: when the washing machine starts running, the light source is turned on. After the light source has been on for a preset duration, the infrared sensor collects a temperature distribution image of the heated dirt layer surface, using this temperature distribution image as dirt deposition information. Thus, by combining the light source and the infrared sensor, the temperature distribution image of the dirt layer surface inside the drum is accurately identified, and this temperature distribution image is used as dirt deposition information, thereby efficiently and accurately obtaining dirt deposition information inside the washing machine.

[0009] In the washing machine provided according to the third embodiment of this application, the controller is further configured to perform the following steps: generating a temperature decay curve corresponding to the dirt layer in the drum based on the temperature distribution image; calculating the thickness of the dirt layer based on the temperature decay curve; and determining the amount of dirt deposited in the drum based on the thickness of the dirt layer.

[0010] In the third embodiment of this application, a temperature decay curve corresponding to the dirt layer inside the washing machine drum can be generated based on the temperature distribution image of the heated dirt layer surface collected by the infrared sensor. The thickness of the dirt layer inside the washing machine drum can be calculated based on the temperature decay curve, and the amount of dirt deposited inside the drum can be determined based on the thickness of the dirt layer. Thus, the dirt deposit information inside the drum can be obtained through simple calculation.

[0011] In the washing machine provided according to the fourth embodiment of this application, the dirt measuring device further includes an analysis and storage unit, which is used to determine the amount of dirt deposited in the drum based on the temperature distribution image collected by the infrared sensor, so as to use the amount of dirt deposited as the dirt deposit information.

[0012] In the fourth embodiment of this application, the dirt measuring device further includes an analysis and storage unit, which is used to determine the amount of dirt deposited in the clothes tub based on the temperature distribution image collected by the infrared sensor, and to use the amount of dirt deposited as dirt deposit information. Thus, by calculating the temperature distribution image through the analysis and storage unit, the amount of dirt deposited in the clothes tub can be obtained efficiently and accurately.

[0013] In the washing machine provided according to the fifth embodiment of this application, the dirt measuring device further includes a transmission unit, and the prompt information is sent to the user terminal via the transmission unit.

[0014] In the fifth embodiment of this application, the dirt measuring device includes a transmission unit. When the dirt measuring device detects that the amount of dirt deposited in the clothes tub has reached or exceeded a preset amount, it sends a prompt message generated based on the dirt deposit information and dirt deposit image to the user terminal so that the user can check the dirt deposit situation in the clothes tub in a timely manner.

[0015] In the washing machine provided according to the sixth embodiment of this application, the drum includes an inner drum and an outer drum, the dirt measuring device is installed on the inner wall of the outer drum, and the light emitting part of the light source and the infrared sensor faces the outer wall of the inner drum.

[0016] In the sixth embodiment of this application, the washing machine drum includes an inner drum and an outer drum. The dirt measuring device is installed on the inner wall of the outer drum, and the light emitting surface of the light source and the infrared sensor faces the outer wall of the inner drum. This allows the light source on the measuring device to directly shine on the surface of the dirt layer on the inner wall, heating the dirt layer. The infrared sensor then collects the temperature distribution image of the heated dirt layer surface using infrared light, thereby efficiently and accurately determining the dirt deposition information of the drum.

[0017] In the washing machine provided according to the seventh embodiment of this application, the drum includes an inner drum and an outer drum, the dirt measuring device is installed at the bottom of the outer drum, and the light emitting part of the light source and the infrared sensor faces the bottom of the inner drum.

[0018] In the seventh embodiment of this application, the clothes tub includes an inner tub and an outer tub. A dirt measuring device is installed at the bottom of the outer tub, and the light emitted by the light source and infrared sensor of the dirt measuring device faces the bottom of the inner tub. This allows the light source of the dirt measuring device located at the bottom of the outer tub to directly illuminate the dirt layer at the bottom of the inner tub. Furthermore, the infrared sensor can directly acquire the surface temperature distribution image of the heated dirt layer at the bottom of the inner tub through infrared rays, thereby efficiently and accurately determining the dirt deposition information of the clothes tub.

[0019] According to the washing machine provided in the eighth embodiment of this application, the inner wall or bottom of the outer drum is provided with a positioning groove for installing the dirt measuring device, and a protective cover is provided at the opening of the positioning groove; the controller is further configured to perform the following steps: when the washing machine starts running, control the lifting of the protective cover and start the dirt measuring device to measure the dirt deposition information of the dirt layer in the drum; when the washing machine stops running, control the lowering of the protective cover and turn off the dirt measuring device.

[0020] In the eighth embodiment of this application, a positioning groove for installing a dirt measuring device is provided on the inner wall or bottom of the outer drum of the washing machine drum, and a protective cover is provided at the opening of the positioning groove, so that when the washing machine is running, the protective cover is raised and the dirt measuring device is activated to measure the dirt deposition information of the dirt layer inside the drum. When the washing machine stops running, the protective cover is lowered and the dirt measuring device is turned off, thereby protecting the stability of the performance of the dirt measuring device.

[0021] According to the washing machine provided in the ninth embodiment of this application, the dirt measuring device further includes an image acquisition unit, which is used to acquire dirt deposition images inside the drum; the controller is further configured to perform the following steps: when the washing machine is turned on, start the dirt measuring device to measure dirt deposition information of the dirt layer inside the drum, and acquire dirt deposition images inside the drum.

[0022] In the ninth embodiment of this application, the dirt measuring device further includes an image acquisition unit, which enables the dirt measuring device to measure dirt deposition information inside the washing drum and acquires images of dirt deposition inside the washing drum through the image acquisition unit, so that users can intuitively view the dirt deposition information inside the washing machine and improve the user experience.

[0023] According to the washing machine provided in the tenth embodiment of this application, the controller is further configured to perform the following steps: receiving a cleaning instruction returned by the user terminal based on the prompt information; if the cleaning instruction indicates that the user terminal has booked a door-to-door cleaning service, then based on the washing instructions contained in the cleaning instruction, continuing to execute the pre-selected washing program or controlling the washing machine to turn off.

[0024] In the tenth embodiment of this application, upon receiving a cleaning instruction from the user terminal based on a prompt message, if the cleaning instruction indicates that the user terminal has already booked a door-to-door cleaning service, and if the cleaning instruction includes a washing instruction, then the pre-selected washing program will continue to be executed or the washing machine will be turned off. This avoids further contamination of the clothes to be washed by dirt inside the drum and also improves the user experience.

[0025] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0026] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application. It is obvious that the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this application, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort. In the drawings:

[0027] Figure 1 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a washing machine shown in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a washing machine shown in another exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 3 This is an exemplary embodiment of the present application illustrating an application scenario of a dirt measuring device;

[0030] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a washing machine, shown in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 5 This is an exemplary embodiment of the protective cover shown in a diagram illustrating its usage status;

[0032] Figure 6 This is another exemplary embodiment of the present application illustrating an application scenario of a dirt measuring device;

[0033] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the control of a washing machine in an exemplary application scenario of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0035] The block diagrams shown in the accompanying drawings are merely functional entities and do not necessarily correspond to physically independent entities. That is, these functional entities can be implemented in software, in one or more hardware modules or integrated circuits, or in different network and / or processor devices and / or microcontroller devices.

[0036] The flowcharts shown in the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative and do not necessarily include all content and operations / steps, nor do they necessarily have to be performed in the described order. For example, some operations / steps can be broken down, while others can be combined or partially combined; therefore, the actual execution order may change depending on the specific circumstances.

[0037] In this application, "multiple" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0038] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplary" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design. Specifically, the use of the terms "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0039] With the development of technology, washing machines have become an essential appliance in households. The invention of the washing machine has made daily life more convenient. However, during use, dirt accumulates on the inner and outer drums of the machine, which is difficult to remove, leading to bacterial growth, clothing contamination, and compromised hygiene. Therefore, the cleanliness of the washing machine is closely related to user health. Although there are various automatic cleaning washing machines on the market, they basically rely on water flow for rinsing. This results in blind spots and relatively weak rinsing power, leaving dirt adhering to the inner and outer drum walls. Furthermore, users cannot visually inspect the specific condition of the dirt or the degree of cleanliness, making it difficult to effectively determine when to clean the washing machine and impacting the user experience.

[0040] To address the aforementioned technical problems, embodiments of this application provide a washing machine capable of visually viewing dirt deposition information inside the washing machine and sending cleaning reminders to a user terminal. This allows the washing machine's dirt measurement device to acquire dirt deposition information in the drum and capture images of the dirt deposition inside the washing machine, generating corresponding dirt reminders which are then sent to the user terminal. This enables the user to visually view the dirt deposition information inside the washing machine and send corresponding instructions to the washing machine based on the reminders, preventing dirt from contaminating clothes and providing a clear view of the washing machine's cleanliness, thus improving the user experience. Furthermore, this application can be based on common product forms such as top-loading washing machines and front-loading washing machines, or on devices integrating washing functions; this application does not impose any limitations on the product form of the washing machine.

[0041] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a washing machine shown in an exemplary embodiment of this application, as follows: Figure 1 As shown, the washing machine includes a drum 110, a dirt measuring device 120, and a controller 130. The drum 110 is used by the user to carry clothes to be washed. The dirt measuring device 120 is set corresponding to the drum 110. The user collects dirt deposition information in the drum 110 and analyzes and stores the amount of dirt deposition corresponding to the dirt deposition information in the drum 110. The controller 130 is connected to the dirt measuring device 120 to control the washing machine based on the amount of dirt deposition in the drum 110 measured by the dirt measuring device 120.

[0042] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, the washing machine 10 may include one or more of the following: an inner drum 101, an outer drum 102, an image acquisition device 103, a dirt measuring device 120, a water inlet valve 104, a drain valve 105, and a controller 130, wherein the controller 130 is connected to the image acquisition device 103, the dirt measuring device 120, the water inlet valve 104, and the drain valve 105, respectively.

[0043] In some feasible embodiments, the inner drum 101 is used to hold clothes and has a dehydration hole, while the outer drum 102 is used to store water used for cleaning or washing clothes in the inner drum 101. When the drain valve is closed, since the outer drum 102 does not have other drain outlets, the water used for cleaning or washing clothes in the inner drum 101 is temporarily stored in the outer drum 102. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a certain gap is left between the inner drum 101 and the outer drum 102 so that during the spin-drying process, clothes placed in the inner drum 101 are drained from the dehydration hole and flow into the drain pipe through the gap between the inner drum 101 and the outer drum 102, thereby achieving the purpose of dehydrating the clothes.

[0044] In some feasible embodiments, the dirt measuring device 105 is used to measure dirt deposition information between the inner cylinder 101 and the outer cylinder 103, and when the dirt deposition between the inner cylinder 101 and the outer cylinder 102 reaches a certain amount, the image acquisition device 103 acquires a dirt deposition image between the inner cylinder 101 and the outer cylinder 102, and generates a cleaning prompt message based on the dirt deposition image and dirt deposition information and sends it to the user terminal, so that the user can intuitively view the dirt deposition situation between the inner cylinder 101 and the outer cylinder 102, as well as the dirt cleaning situation.

[0045] The embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of this specification.

[0046] The controller 130 is specifically installed on a circuit board inside the washing machine's casing, and it is equipped with a dirt measurement and control circuit composed of electronic components such as a memory. The controller 130 executes control methods stored in the memory to control the washing machine to perform corresponding dirt measurement and alert functions. Specifically, the controller 130 is configured to execute steps S310 to S330, detailed below:

[0047] Step S310: Obtain the dirt deposition information measured by the dirt measuring device.

[0048] First, when the washing machine is started, the dirt measuring device inside the washing machine begins to work. The dirt measuring device measures the dirt deposits inside the washing machine drum, calculates the amount of dirt deposits inside the washing machine drum, and sends the amount of dirt deposits inside the washing machine drum to the controller, so that the controller can send corresponding prompt information to the user terminal based on the amount of dirt deposits.

[0049] It is understandable that an image acquisition device is installed inside the washing machine corresponding to the drum. This image acquisition device can monitor the dirt accumulation inside the drum at any time. Alternatively, after the dirt measuring device measures that the dirt accumulation inside the drum has reached a certain amount, the image acquisition device is activated to capture an image of the dirt accumulation inside the drum and automatically report it to the controller.

[0050] In some feasible embodiments, when the washing machine is started, the dirt measuring device automatically acquires dirt deposition information inside the drum, wherein the dirt deposition information may include dirt deposition thickness, dirt deposition area, and other dirt deposition information, and automatically reports it to the controller.

[0051] Step S320: If the amount of dirt deposited in the clothes tub is determined to be above the preset amount based on the dirt deposit information, then an image of the dirt deposit in the clothes tub is obtained.

[0052] Specifically, following the embodiment of step S310 above, after obtaining the dirt deposition information inside the washing machine drum, it is further determined whether the amount of dirt deposition in the dirt deposition information reaches or exceeds a preset deposition amount. It should be noted that the preset deposition amount is a deposition amount set by those skilled in the art based on factors such as the purpose of the washing machine, its capacity, and current environmental humidity and temperature information. In other words, the preset deposition amount can be flexibly set according to environmental factors. Furthermore, if the determination result indicates that the amount of dirt deposition in the washing machine drum reaches or exceeds the preset deposition amount, the image acquisition device is controlled to acquire an image of the dirt deposition inside the drum.

[0053] Step S330: Generate a prompt message based on the dirt deposition information and the dirt deposition image, and send the prompt message to the user terminal to prompt the user to clean the washing machine.

[0054] Understandably, when the amount of dirt deposited in the washing machine drum reaches the preset amount, the dirt deposit information measured and calculated by the dirt measuring device and the dirt deposit image acquired by the image acquisition device can be combined to generate a corresponding prompt message, which is then transmitted to the user terminal through the corresponding communication unit to remind the user that the washing machine needs to be cleaned.

[0055] In addition, in some feasible embodiments, the washing machine also includes a display device for displaying dirt deposition information measured by the dirt measuring device and dirt deposition images captured by the image acquisition device, and generating corresponding prompts so that users can intuitively view the dirt deposition situation inside the washing machine.

[0056] In this embodiment, when the washing machine is started, dirt deposition information inside the washing machine is acquired by a dirt measuring device. If the amount of dirt deposition in the drum is determined to be above a preset amount based on the dirt deposition information, an image of the dirt deposition in the drum is acquired. This achieves real-time monitoring of dirt deposition in the washing machine drum and allows users to more intuitively understand the dirt deposition situation when the amount of dirt deposition exceeds the preset amount. Then, a corresponding prompt message is generated based on the dirt deposition information and the dirt deposition image and sent to the user terminal to remind the user to clean the washing machine. This ensures that the user can clean the washing machine in a timely manner, preventing dirt deposition in the drum from causing bacterial growth and affecting the user experience.

[0057] Furthermore, based on the above embodiments, please refer to... Figure 3 In one exemplary embodiment provided in this application, the aforementioned dirt measuring device includes a light source 121 and an infrared sensor 122. The light source 121 is used to heat the dirt layer inside the clothes drum 110, while the infrared sensor 122 is used to acquire a temperature distribution image of the surface of the dirt layer after it has been heated by the light source 121. Based on this, the controller 130 is further configured to perform the following steps S410 and S420, which are described in detail below:

[0058] Step S410: Turn on the light source when the washing machine starts running;

[0059] Step S420: If the light source is turned on for a period of time exceeding a preset duration, an infrared sensor is used to collect a temperature distribution image of the heated dirt layer surface, and the temperature distribution image is used as dirt deposition information.

[0060] Specifically, when the washing machine starts running, the light source inside the dirt measuring device is turned on, and the emitted light from the light source shines directly on the dirt layer in the washing machine drum. After the light source has been on for a period of time, the infrared sensor is controlled to emit an infrared light source that shines directly on the dirt layer that has been irradiated by the light source for a period of time, so as to collect a temperature distribution image of the dirt layer after being heated by the light source, and use the temperature distribution image as dirt deposition information in the drum.

[0061] Furthermore, in some feasible embodiments, the duration of the light source's on-time can be set according to environmental factors, the washing program selected by the user, and other factors. For example, in winter when the ambient temperature is low, the on-time of the light source can be extended to make the surface temperature distribution image of the heated dirt layer collected by the infrared sensor more accurate. This application does not impose any fixed limitation on the preset duration of the light source irradiation.

[0062] like Figure 3As shown, the light emitted by the light source in the dirt measuring device directly shines on the inner wall of the washing machine drum to heat the dirt layer deposited on the inner wall of the drum. After the dirt layer is heated for a preset time by the light source in a pulse manner, infrared light is emitted by the infrared sensor to shine on the heated dirt layer, and the temperature distribution image of the dirt layer surface is obtained.

[0063] In this embodiment, the temperature distribution image of the surface of the dirt layer inside the washing machine is accurately identified by combining a light source and an infrared sensor. This temperature distribution image is used as dirt deposition information, thereby efficiently and accurately obtaining dirt deposition information inside the washing machine.

[0064] Furthermore, based on the above embodiments, in one exemplary embodiment provided in this application, the controller 130 is further configured to perform the following steps S510 and S520, which are described in detail below:

[0065] Step S510: Generate a temperature decay curve corresponding to the dirt layer inside the clothes tub based on the temperature distribution image;

[0066] Step S520: Calculate the thickness of the dirt layer based on the temperature decay curve, and determine the amount of dirt deposited in the garment tub based on the thickness of the dirt layer.

[0067] First, it's important to explain that an infrared sensor is an electronic device that emits or detects infrared radiation to sense its surroundings. Infrared sensors can measure the heat of objects and detect motion. Typically, all objects radiate some form of thermal radiation in the infrared spectrum. These types of radiation are invisible to the naked eye but can be detected by infrared sensors. The emitter is simply an infrared LED (light-emitting diode), and the detector is simply an infrared photodiode, which is sensitive to infrared light of the same wavelength emitted by the infrared LED. When infrared light falls on the photodiode, the resistance and output voltage change proportionally to the magnitude of the received infrared light, resulting in a corresponding temperature distribution pattern.

[0068] Specifically, after the infrared sensor in the dirt measuring device acquires a temperature distribution image of the heated dirt layer surface on the inner wall of the washing tub and reports it to the controller, the controller generates a temperature decay curve of the dirt layer inside the tub based on the temperature distribution image. Based on this temperature decay curve, the thickness of the dirt layer on the inner wall of the washing tub is further calculated, thus determining the amount of dirt deposited inside the tub based on the thickness of the dirt layer.

[0069] In this embodiment, a temperature decay curve corresponding to the dirt layer inside the washing machine drum is generated based on the temperature distribution image of the heated dirt layer surface collected by the infrared sensor. The thickness of the dirt layer inside the washing machine drum is calculated based on the temperature decay curve, and then the amount of dirt deposited inside the drum is determined based on the thickness of the dirt layer. Thus, the dirt deposit information inside the drum can be obtained through simple calculation.

[0070] Furthermore, based on the above embodiments, in one embodiment provided in this application, the above-mentioned dirt measuring device further includes an analysis and storage unit, which is used to determine the amount of dirt in the garment tub based on the temperature distribution image collected by the infrared sensor, so as to use the amount of dirt deposition as dirt deposition information.

[0071] Specifically, the dirt measuring device is also equipped with an analysis and storage unit, which is set up in correspondence with the infrared sensor. The temperature distribution image of the heated dirt layer surface inside the washing machine drum, which is collected by the infrared sensor, is input into the analysis and storage unit. The analysis and storage unit analyzes the temperature distribution image and finds the amount of dirt deposition corresponding to the temperature distribution image by referring to the temperature and thickness lookup table stored in the analysis and storage unit. The amount of dirt deposition is then used as dirt deposition information.

[0072] In this embodiment, the dirt measuring device also includes an analysis and storage unit, which is used to determine the amount of dirt deposited in the garment tub based on the temperature distribution image collected by the infrared sensor, and to use the amount of dirt deposited as dirt deposit information. Thus, by analyzing the temperature distribution image through the analysis and storage unit, the amount of dirt deposited in the garment tub can be obtained efficiently and accurately.

[0073] Furthermore, based on the above embodiments, in one exemplary embodiment provided in this application, the dirt measuring device further includes a transmission unit, through which the prompt information is sent to the user terminal.

[0074] Specifically, in some feasible embodiments, the dirt measuring device is further provided with a transmission unit, which is used to send prompt information to the user terminal. For example, the transmission unit sends the dirt deposition information in the washing machine drum measured by the dirt measuring device to the user terminal, prompting the user that the washing machine needs to be cleaned; or, when the amount of dirt deposition in the washing machine drum reaches or exceeds a preset deposition amount, the transmission unit sends a prompt information to the user terminal to prompt the user to clean the washing machine.

[0075] In this embodiment, the dirt measuring device includes a transmission unit. When the dirt measuring device detects that the amount of dirt deposited in the clothes tub has reached or exceeded a preset amount, it sends a prompt message generated based on the dirt deposit information and dirt deposit image to the user terminal so that the user can check the dirt deposit situation in the clothes tub in a timely manner.

[0076] Furthermore, based on the above embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, in one exemplary embodiment provided in this application, the above-mentioned clothes tube includes an inner tube and an outer tube, the dirt measuring device is installed on the inner wall of the outer tube, and the light emitting part of the light source and the infrared sensor faces the outer wall of the inner tube.

[0077] Specifically, such as Figure 4 As shown, in some feasible embodiments, the washing machine further includes an inner drum, an outer drum, a shock absorber, a suspension spring, and a dirt measuring device. The dirt measuring device is disposed on the inner wall of the outer drum, so that the light emitted by the light source of the dirt measuring device directly illuminates the bottom of the inner drum, thereby further acquiring information on dirt deposition on the outer wall of the inner drum. Furthermore, during washing machine operation, the shock absorber can automatically adjust its fluid damping according to the operating conditions of the washing machine. Under heavy loads, especially when the spin cycle increases from low to high speed, the damping force increases as the stroke of the damping block within the drum increases, enhancing shock absorption and maintaining the stability of the washing machine. Under light loads, the shock absorber operates with low damping, especially during high-speed spin drying, where the damping force decreases as the stroke of the damping block within the drum decreases, maintaining the stability of the washing machine.

[0078] In this embodiment, the washing machine drum includes an inner drum and an outer drum, and a dirt measuring device is installed on the outer drum so that the dirt measuring device can directly measure the dirt deposition information on the outer wall of the inner drum, thereby efficiently and accurately determining the dirt deposition information of the drum.

[0079] Furthermore, based on the above embodiments, in one exemplary embodiment provided in this application, the above-mentioned clothes tube includes an inner tube and an outer tube, the dirt measuring device is installed at the bottom of the outer tube, and the light emitting part of the light source and infrared sensor faces the bottom of the inner tube.

[0080] Specifically, following the above embodiments, participants Figure 4In this embodiment, a dirt measuring device for measuring dirt deposition information in the washing machine drum is installed on the outer drum. The light emitted by the light source in this dirt measuring device directly illuminates the bottom of the inner drum, and the infrared radiation emitted by the infrared sensor of the dirt measuring device also directly illuminates the bottom of the inner drum. That is, when the washing machine starts running, the light source of the dirt measuring device installed at the bottom of the outer drum irradiates the dirt layer at the bottom of the inner drum to heat it. After heating for a period of time, the infrared sensor in the dirt measuring device collects a temperature distribution image of the heated dirt layer, thus enabling the identification of dirt deposition information at the bottom of the washing machine's inner drum through this temperature distribution image.

[0081] In this embodiment, the clothes tub includes an inner tub and an outer tub. The dirt measuring device is installed at the bottom of the outer tub, and the light emitted by the light source and infrared sensor of the dirt measuring device faces the bottom of the inner tub. This allows the light source of the dirt measuring device located at the bottom of the outer tub to directly illuminate the dirt layer at the bottom of the inner tub. Furthermore, the infrared sensor can directly acquire the surface temperature distribution image of the heated dirt layer at the bottom of the inner tub through the infrared light it sends, thereby efficiently and accurately determining the dirt deposition information of the clothes tub.

[0082] Furthermore, based on the above embodiments, please refer to... Figure 5 In one exemplary embodiment provided in this application, the inner wall or bottom of the outer cylinder is provided with a positioning groove for installing a dirt measuring device, and a protective cover is provided at the opening of the positioning groove; the controller 130 is also configured to perform the following steps S610 and S620, which are described in detail below:

[0083] Step S610: When the washing machine starts running, control the lifting of the protective cover and activate the dirt measuring device to measure the dirt deposition information of the dirt layer inside the drum.

[0084] In step S620, when the washing machine stops running, the protective cover is lowered and the dirt measuring device is turned off.

[0085] Specifically, such as Figure 5 As shown, a positioning groove for installing a dirt measuring device is provided on the inner wall or bottom of the outer drum of the washing machine tub, and a protective cover is fitted at the opening of the positioning groove to prevent water stains inside the washing machine from contaminating the surface of the dirt measuring device. In some feasible embodiments, a slide rail is provided on the inner wall of the outer drum corresponding to the protective cover, so that the protective cover can slide open when the dirt measuring device is working, or slide close when the dirt measuring device is not working.

[0086] In step S610, the controller 130 is configured to perform the following process: when the washing machine starts running, it controls the lifting of the protective cover to allow the dirt measuring device to function properly, that is, to allow the dirt measuring device to properly measure dirt deposit information in the washing machine drum. For example, when the washing machine starts running, it controls the protective cover to slide up or down along a slide rail on the outer drum of the washing machine to allow the dirt measuring device to function properly.

[0087] In step S620, the controller 130 is further configured to perform the following process: when the washing machine stops running, or when the control program of the dirt measuring device in the corresponding memory of the controller determines that the dirt measuring device has stopped running, the controller controls the protective cover to fall down to prevent water stains inside the washing machine from contaminating the surface of the dirt measuring device, thereby causing a decrease in the measurement performance of the dirt measuring device. For example, when it is detected that the washing machine has stopped running, or when it is detected that the dirt measuring device has completed its dirt measurement work, wherein the triggering conditions for the dirt measuring device to complete its dirt measurement work include: when the washing machine starts executing a program related to washing clothes or drum cleaning, indicating that the dirt measuring device has completed its dirt measurement work, the controller controls the protective cover to fall or rise along the slide rail on the outer wall of the well-servicing machine to prevent water stains generated during subsequent washing machine operations from contaminating the surface of the measuring device, thereby causing a decrease in the performance of the dirt measuring device.

[0088] In this embodiment, a positioning groove for installing a dirt measuring device is provided on the inner wall or bottom of the outer drum of the washing machine drum, and a protective cover is provided at the opening of the positioning groove. This allows the protective cover to be raised during the operation of the washing machine, and the dirt measuring device to be activated to measure the dirt deposition information of the dirt layer inside the drum. When the washing machine stops running, the protective cover is lowered and the dirt measuring device is turned off, thereby protecting the stability of the performance of the dirt measuring device.

[0089] Furthermore, based on the above embodiments, please refer to... Figure 6 In one exemplary embodiment provided in this application, the aforementioned dirt measuring device further includes an image acquisition unit for acquiring images of dirt deposition inside the garment tub; the controller 130 is also configured to perform the following steps:

[0090] When the washing machine is turned on, the dirt measuring device is activated to measure dirt deposition information in the dirt layer inside the drum and to collect images of dirt deposition inside the drum.

[0091] like Figure 6As shown, in this embodiment, the dirt measuring device is activated when the washing machine is turned on. Specifically, when the washing machine is turned on, the light source in the dirt measuring device is turned on. The irradiation surface of this light source can cover the dirt deposit layer inside the washing machine drum, and the dirt deposit layer is heated by the light source. After heating the dirt deposit layer for a period of time, the infrared sensor in the dirt measuring device is turned on, and the infrared rays emitted by the infrared sensor are also directly shone on the heated dirt deposit layer. The infrared sensor collects an image of the temperature distribution change on the surface of the heated dirt deposit layer, and further analyzes the dirt deposit information inside the washing machine drum based on the temperature change distribution image using the analysis and storage unit in the dirt deposit layer. Furthermore, an image acquisition unit is set inside the dirt measuring device to collect images of the dirt deposit inside the washing machine drum. This image, combined with the dirt deposit information, is transmitted to the user terminal via a transmission unit, allowing the user to intuitively understand the dirt deposit situation inside the washing machine and prompting the user to clean the washing machine. This ensures that the user cleans the washing machine in a timely manner, preventing the accumulation of dirt inside the drum from causing bacterial growth and affecting the user experience.

[0092] Furthermore, based on the above embodiments, in one exemplary embodiment provided in this application, the controller 130 is further configured to perform the following steps S710 and S720, which are described in detail below:

[0093] Step S710: Receive cleaning instructions returned by the user terminal based on the prompt information;

[0094] In step S720, if the cleaning instruction indicates that the user terminal has booked a door-to-door cleaning service, then based on the washing instructions contained in the cleaning instruction, continue to execute the pre-selected washing program or control the washing machine to turn off.

[0095] Specifically, following the above embodiments, a prompt message is sent to the user terminal through the transmission unit in the dirt measuring device. After the user can intuitively understand the dirt deposition information inside the washing machine through the prompt message on the user terminal, the user returns the corresponding cleaning instruction through the user terminal. If the cleaning instruction contains a washing instruction, the washing machine is controlled to continue to execute the pre-selected washing program or turn off, or the washing machine is controlled to execute the washing program carried in the cleaning instruction.

[0096] Furthermore, in some feasible embodiments, if the cleaning instruction returned by the user terminal based on the prompt information indicates that an official on-site cleaning service has been booked, and the official after-sales center accepts the order and provides on-site cleaning service at the agreed time, then the cleaning instruction returned by the user terminal indicates that the user wants to continue executing the washing program to complete the washing of the clothes. Alternatively, if the cleaning instruction returned by the user indicates that the user wants the washing machine to turn off directly and abandon the washing cycle, then the washing machine will be turned off.

[0097] Furthermore, in some feasible embodiments, if the user terminal returns a cleaning instruction based on the prompt information indicating that the user has selected drum self-cleaning, then the washing machine is turned off, and the current wash is abandoned in order to perform self-cleaning of the drum.

[0098] In this embodiment, upon receiving a cleaning instruction from the user terminal based on a prompt message, if the cleaning instruction indicates that the user terminal has already booked an on-site cleaning service, or if the cleaning instruction includes a washing instruction, the pre-selected washing program will continue to be executed or the washing machine will be turned off. This prevents the clothes to be washed from being further contaminated by dirt inside the drum and improves the user experience.

[0099] Please refer to Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a simplified flowchart illustrating the control of a washing machine in an exemplary application scenario. Figure 7 In the application scenario shown, when the washing machine starts running, the light source of the dirt measuring device installed on the outer drum of the washing machine is turned on. This light source illuminates the dirt deposit layer on the outer wall of the inner drum. The infrared sensor of the dirt measuring device then collects a temperature distribution image of the heated dirt deposit layer. Based on this temperature distribution image, dirt deposit information inside the washing machine is calculated, including the amount of dirt deposited. When the dirt deposit information indicates that the amount of dirt deposited in the washing machine exceeds a preset amount, an image acquisition device can also capture a dirt deposit image of the washing machine drum. Based on the dirt deposit information and the dirt deposit image, a prompt message is generated and sent to the user terminal. The system also receives a cleaning command from the user terminal based on the prompt message. If the cleaning command indicates that the user terminal has booked a door-to-door cleaning service, the system executes the pre-selected washing program included in the cleaning command or shuts down the machine. If the cleaning command indicates that the user terminal has selected the drum self-cleaning mode, the system shuts down the washing machine. This ensures that the user can clean the washing machine in a timely manner, preventing dirt deposits inside the drum from causing bacterial growth and affecting the user experience.

[0100] Furthermore, in some feasible embodiments, when the washing machine starts running, the light source of the dirt measuring device installed on the outer drum of the washing machine is turned on. This light source illuminates the dirt deposit layer on the outer wall of the inner drum, and the infrared sensor of the dirt measuring device collects a temperature distribution image of the heated dirt deposit layer. Based on this temperature distribution image, dirt deposit information inside the washing machine is calculated. An image acquisition device can also capture images of the dirt deposit in the washing machine drum. Based on the dirt deposit information and images, a prompt message is generated and sent to the user terminal, allowing the user to intuitively understand the dirt deposit situation inside the washing machine and select the next washing program. This achieves real-time monitoring of dirt deposits inside the washing machine drum.

[0101] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of this application. Each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which contains one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions indicated in the blocks may occur in a different order than those indicated in the drawings. For example, two consecutively indicated blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. It should also be noted that each block in a block diagram or flowchart, and combinations of blocks in a block diagram or flowchart, can be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or operation, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0102] The units described in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in software or hardware, and the described units can also be located in a processor. The names of these units do not necessarily limit the specific unit itself.

[0103] The above description is merely a preferred exemplary embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the implementation of this application. Those skilled in the art can easily make corresponding modifications or alterations based on the main concept and spirit of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of protection claimed in the claims.

Claims

1. A washing machine, characterized in that, The washing machine includes a drum, a dirt measuring device, and a controller, wherein: The dirt measuring device is used to measure dirt deposition information in the dirt layer inside the garment tub; The controller is configured to perform the following steps: Obtain the dirt deposition information measured by the dirt measuring device; If, based on the dirt deposition information, it is determined that the amount of dirt deposited inside the garment tub reaches or exceeds a preset amount, then an image of the dirt deposition inside the garment tub is obtained. Based on the dirt deposition information and the dirt deposition image, a prompt message is generated and sent to the user terminal to prompt the user to clean the washing machine.

2. The washing machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The dirt measuring device includes a light source and an infrared sensor. The light source is used to heat the dirt layer inside the garment tube, and the infrared sensor is used to acquire a temperature distribution image of the surface of the dirt layer inside the garment tube. The controller is also configured to perform the following steps: The light source is turned on when the washing machine starts running; If the light source is turned on for a period of time exceeding a preset duration, the infrared sensor will collect a temperature distribution image of the heated dirt layer surface, and the temperature distribution image will be used as dirt deposition information.

3. The washing machine as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to perform the following steps: Based on the temperature distribution image, a temperature decay curve corresponding to the dirt layer inside the garment tub is generated; The thickness of the dirt layer is calculated based on the temperature decay curve, and the amount of dirt deposited in the garment tub is determined based on the thickness of the dirt layer.

4. The washing machine as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The dirt measuring device further includes an analysis and storage unit, which is used to determine the amount of dirt deposited in the garment tub based on the temperature distribution image collected by the infrared sensor, and to use the amount of dirt deposited as the dirt deposit information.

5. The washing machine as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The dirt measuring device also includes a transmission unit, through which the prompt information is sent to the user terminal.

6. The washing machine as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The garment tube includes an inner tube and an outer tube. The dirt measuring device is installed on the inner wall of the outer tube, and the light emitting part of the light source and the infrared sensor faces the outer wall of the inner tube.

7. The washing machine as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The garment tube includes an inner tube and an outer tube. The dirt measuring device is installed at the bottom of the outer tube, and the light emitting part of the light source and the infrared sensor faces the bottom of the inner tube.

8. The washing machine as described in claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, The inner wall or bottom of the outer cylinder is provided with a positioning groove for installing the dirt measuring device, and a protective cover is provided at the opening of the positioning groove. The controller is also configured to perform the following steps: When the washing machine starts running, the protective cover is raised and the dirt measuring device is activated to measure the dirt deposition information of the dirt layer inside the drum. When the washing machine stops running, the protective cover is lowered and the dirt measuring device is turned off.

9. The washing machine as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The dirt measuring device also includes an image acquisition unit, which is used to acquire images of dirt deposition inside the garment tub; The controller is also configured to perform the following steps: When the washing machine is turned on, the dirt measuring device is activated to measure dirt deposition information in the dirt layer inside the drum and to collect images of dirt deposition inside the drum.

10. The washing machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to perform the following steps: Receive the cleaning instruction returned by the user terminal based on the prompt information; If the cleaning instruction indicates that the user terminal has booked a door-to-door cleaning service, then based on the washing instructions contained in the cleaning instruction, the pre-selected washing program will continue to be executed or the washing machine will be turned off.

Images