Handle control method, handle control device, household appliance and electronic device

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of household appliances, and provides a handle control method, a handle control device, a household appliance, an electronic device, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium and a computer program product. The handle control method comprises: determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state; based on the handle being adapted to switch between a hidden state and a gripping state, controlling the handle to remain in the gripping state for a first preset time length; wherein the first preset time length is greater than a second preset time length, and the second preset time length is the time length for which the handle in a regular use state remains in the gripping state. The handle control method provided by the present application can reduce the number of times the handle is opened and closed, prolong the service life of the handle, solve the problem of the user's hand being pinched, and improve the user experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliance technology, and more particularly to handle control methods, handle control devices, household appliances, electronic devices, non-transitory computer-readable storage media, and computer program products. Background Technology

[0002] With the advancement of technology, the intelligence and automation of home appliances are gradually increasing to meet user needs. Taking home appliances such as refrigerators and dishwashers as examples, handles are installed on the doors for easy opening and closing. To ensure the simplicity and aesthetics of the appliance's appearance, some appliances feature retractable handles that can switch between a hidden and a gripping state. In the hidden state, the handle is concealed, preventing direct pulling, resulting in a smooth door surface, a more cohesive look, and a cleaner appearance. In the gripping state, the cover plate concealing the handle can be adjusted or the handle can be extended from the door, allowing the user to pull it to open and close the door.

[0003] In some situations, users may need to use the handle frequently, that is, frequently open and close the door. For example, when cooking, they may frequently take ingredients from the refrigerator, or before washing dishes, they may frequently open and close the dishwasher to prevent the cleaning of kitchen utensils. In these cases, users need to wait for the handle to switch from a hidden state to a gripping state every time they open or close the door, which is a poor user experience. Moreover, the frequent switching of the handle's position will affect the handle's lifespan. In some cases, the handle may also cause the user's hand to be pinched during the position switching process, affecting the safety of use. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in related technologies. To this end, this invention proposes a handle control method that can reduce the number of times the handle is opened and closed, extend the handle's service life, solve the problem of users' hands being pinched, and improve the user experience.

[0005] The present invention also proposes a handle control device.

[0006] The present invention also proposes a household appliance.

[0007] The present invention also proposes an electronic device.

[0008] The present invention also proposes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0009] The present invention also proposes a computer program product.

[0010] A handle control method according to a first aspect of the present invention includes:

[0011] It is determined that the handle is in a high-frequency use state;

[0012] Based on the fact that the handle is adapted to switch between a hidden state and a gripping state, the handle is controlled to remain in the gripping state for a first preset duration;

[0013] Wherein, the first preset duration is greater than the second preset duration, and the second preset duration is the duration for which the handle is held in the gripping state during normal use.

[0014] According to the handle control method of this invention, after determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state, the handle in the high-frequency use state is controlled to maintain the gripping state for a first preset duration, which is longer than the handle in the normal use state. In the high-frequency use state, the handle is used more frequently than in the normal use state within the same time period. This handle control method reduces the number of times the handle is opened and closed, improves user experience, extends the handle's lifespan, requires no changes to the handle's structure, does not affect production costs, and can control existing products.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the step of determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state includes:

[0016] Within a third preset time period, the first number of times the handle switches between the hidden state and the gripping state is obtained. If the first number of times is greater than or equal to the first preset number of times, then the handle is determined to be in a high-frequency use state.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, prior to the step of determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state, the procedure includes:

[0018] Obtain statistical information on the gripping state of the handle within a preset time period;

[0019] Based on the statistical information, at least one of the date, time period, and duration when the handle is in the gripping state is obtained, so as to determine at least one of the time of the high-frequency use state and the first preset duration.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the step of determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state includes:

[0021] The high-frequency usage status is determined based on the input signal.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the input signal includes at least one of a preset time period, a preset start time, and a trigger signal of the start time.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present invention, in the step of controlling the handle to maintain the gripping state for a first preset duration,

[0024] If the number of times the user passes the handle within a fourth preset time period is obtained, and it is determined that the second number is greater than or equal to the second preset number, then the handle is controlled to extend the gripping state for a fifth preset time period; wherein the fourth preset time period is less than or equal to the first preset time period.

[0025] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the step of determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state includes:

[0026] If the number of times the user passes the handle within the sixth preset time period is obtained, and the third number is greater than or equal to the third preset number, then the handle is determined to be in a high-frequency usage state.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the present invention, in the step of controlling the handle to maintain the gripping state for a first preset duration,

[0028] A notification message is sent during a preset period before the first preset duration ends.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a handle control device is provided, comprising:

[0030] A determination module is used to determine whether the handle is in a high-frequency usage state;

[0031] The control module, based on the fact that the handle is adapted to switch between a hidden state and a gripping state, is used to control the handle to remain in the gripping state for a first preset time and then switch to the hidden state;

[0032] Wherein, the first preset duration is greater than the second preset duration, and the second preset duration is the duration for which the handle is held in the gripping state in the normal state.

[0033] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a household appliance is provided, comprising:

[0034] Door body;

[0035] A handle is provided on the door body;

[0036] The controller is used to perform the handle control method as described above.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a trigger button is included, connected to the controller, and adapted to control the handle to switch between the high-frequency use state and the normal use state.

[0038] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, an electronic device is provided, including a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the processor executes the program to implement the handle control method as described above.

[0039] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which a computer program is stored, which, when executed by a processor, implements the handle control method as described above.

[0040] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, a computer program product is provided, comprising a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the handle control method as described above.

[0041] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0042] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or related technologies, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0043] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the handle control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the door handle in a hidden state provided in an embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, the cover plate covers the grip groove.

[0046] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the door handle in a gripping state provided in an embodiment of the present invention; in the figure, the cover plate is open and gripping groove is open;

[0047] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the handle provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 6 This is a side view of the handle structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention; the gripping groove is in a covered state in the figure;

[0049] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of AA;

[0050] Figure 8 This is a side view of the handle structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention; the gripping groove is in a semi-covered state in the figure;

[0051] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of BB;

[0052] Figure 10 This is a side view of the handle structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention; the gripping groove in the figure is in a gripping state;

[0053] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the CC structure. Attached image description:

[0055] 300, Door body; 400, Handle; 410, Cover plate; 420, Drive structure; 430, Grip groove. Detailed Implementation

[0056] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0057] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. In addition, in the description of the present invention, unless otherwise stated, "multiple," "multiple roots," and "multiple groups" mean two or more.

[0058] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" 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. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0059] In embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0060] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0061] Before providing a detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention, the overall application scenario will be described first. The handle control method, handle control device, home appliance, electronic device, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, and computer program of the embodiments of the present invention can be applied to cloud platforms in the Internet of Things (IoT) field, cloud platforms in other types of Internet fields, third-party devices, or home appliances. Third-party devices may include various types such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, in-vehicle computers, and other smart home appliances. Home appliances include devices with handles such as refrigerators, freezers, and dishwashers. The following embodiments use the application of the handle control method to a refrigerator as an example. Of course, the types of home appliances are not limited to the examples given here; any door with a handle that can switch between a hidden state and a gripping state is acceptable.

[0062] Regarding handles, handles can be components installed on the door, switching between a concealed state hidden within the door and a gripping state extended from the door, allowing users to open the door by gripping the handle. Alternatively, the handle can be a structure concealed within the door, with a cover plate on the door to cover it. By adjusting the position of the cover plate, the handle can be in either a concealed state or a gripping state suitable for being gripped. It should be noted that the handle structure is not limited to the aforementioned methods; other handles capable of switching between concealed and gripping states can be controlled using the handle control methods described below.

[0063] refer to Figures 3 to 11 As shown, a door body 300 structure is provided, the door body 300 is provided with a handle 400 that can be switched between a hidden state and a gripping state, the handle includes a cover plate 410, a drive mechanism 420 and a gripping groove 430, see reference. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, when the handle 400 is in the hidden state, the cover 410 closes the opening of the grip groove 430, preventing the user's hand from reaching into the grip groove 430 and thus preventing the door from being opened by pulling the handle 400; Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in the state between the hidden state and the gripping state, the cover plate 410 partially covers the opening of the grip groove 430. In this state, if the user's hand is inserted into the grip groove 430, it will be pinched. (Reference) Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, when the handle 400 is in the gripping state, the opening of the grip groove 430 is fully open, allowing the user's hand to be inserted into the grip groove 430 so that the user can open the door by pulling the handle 400.

[0064] An embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention is described below. Figure 1 As shown, a handle control method is provided, including:

[0065] Step 110: Determine that the handle is in a high-frequency use state;

[0066] High-frequency use can be understood as the user needing to grip the handle more times than a preset number of times within a preset duration. The preset duration can be 5 minutes, 1 hour, 3 hours, etc., and can be set according to needs. The preset number of grips is any number of times greater than or equal to 2, which can also be selected as needed. Here, high-frequency use does not limit the specific frequency of use.

[0067] Examples of high-frequency usage: A user grips the handle more than twice within 5 minutes; or grips the handle more than three times within the next hour; or, after gripping the handle once, the user is certain that they will grip the handle again within 10 minutes.

[0068] Users grip the handle to open the door. The high-frequency use of the handle can also be understood as the high frequency of door opening and closing. For example, when cooking or having a meal, users need to frequently open and close the refrigerator door to take out or put in food; during cleaning, users need to frequently open and close the dishwasher door to put the utensils that need to be cleaned inside.

[0069] Step 120: Based on the fact that the handle is suitable for switching between a hidden state and a gripping state, control the handle to maintain the gripping state for a first preset duration;

[0070] The first preset duration is longer than the second preset duration, which is the duration for which the handle remains in a gripping state during normal use.

[0071] Normal usage state can be understood as a non-frequent usage state. In this state, the handle switches from the hidden state to the gripping state and remains in the gripping state for a second preset time, that is, after the user's hand leaves the handle for a second preset time, the handle returns to the hidden state.

[0072] Maintaining the handle in the gripping state for a first preset duration can be understood as holding the handle in the gripping state for the first preset duration before returning it to the hidden state. The first preset duration can be a fixed value, such as 5 minutes, 1 hour, or 2 hours. That is, for a handle in high-frequency use, each time it switches from the hidden state to the gripping state, it maintains the gripping state for a fixed first preset duration. Of course, the first preset duration can also be a variable value. For a handle in high-frequency use, as the number of times the handle switches between the hidden and gripping states increases, the first preset duration changes according to a preset pattern, such as gradually increasing, gradually decreasing, or first increasing and then decreasing, etc. However, the pattern of change for the first preset duration is not limited to this, and other changes are also possible.

[0073] For example, in normal use, if the user's hand leaves the handle for 15 seconds, the handle will switch from the gripping state to the hidden state; in high-frequency use, if the user's hand leaves the handle for 5 minutes, the handle will switch from the gripping state to the hidden state again; or, in high-frequency use, as the number of times the handle switches between the gripping state and the hidden state increases, the duration for which the handle remains in the gripping state after the user's hand leaves the handle gradually increases from 1 minute to 10 minutes.

[0074] The handle control method in this embodiment reduces the number of times the handle is opened and closed in high-frequency usage scenarios, improves user experience, extends the handle's service life, does not require changes to the handle's structure, does not affect production costs, and can control existing products.

[0075] It is understandable that before step 110, that is, before determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state, the following steps are included:

[0076] Within the third preset time period, the first number of times the handle switches between the gripping state and the hidden state is obtained. If the first number is greater than or equal to the first preset number, the handle is determined to be in a high-frequency use state.

[0077] During user interaction with the handle, the system determines whether the handle is in a regular or high-frequency usage state. This is determined by whether the handle switches between a first preset number of times within a third preset time period (i.e., the handle is frequently switched between a gripped and hidden state). This "frequent switching" is not limited to a specific frequency; it can be determined based on user needs and habits. Both the third preset time period and the first preset number of times can be determined according to actual needs, such as user habits or application scenarios (e.g., refrigerators or dishwashers). The first preset number of times is greater than or equal to two.

[0078] For example, if the handle switches between the gripping and hidden states at least twice within 10 minutes, it is determined that the handle is in a high-frequency use state. When the handle switches back to the gripping state, it is controlled to remain in the gripping state for 5 minutes. Alternatively, if the handle switches between the gripping and hidden states at least three times within 20 minutes, it is determined that the handle is in a high-frequency use state. Once the handle enters the high-frequency use state, it remains in the gripping state for 3 minutes the first time it switches to the gripping state, 8 minutes the second time, 15 minutes the third time, and so on. In other words, the duration of the handle remaining in the gripping state increases progressively, and the method of increase can be selected as needed.

[0079] In this embodiment, the method for determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state is simple, and the user can set a third preset duration and a first preset number of times as needed.

[0080] Unlike the embodiments described above, another method is provided for determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state. It is understood that before step 110, that is, before the step of determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state, the following steps are included:

[0081] Step 210: Obtain statistical information on the gripping state of the handle within a preset time period;

[0082] During the initial use phase or the entire usage process, information on handle usage is collected and statistically analyzed to obtain statistical data. This handle usage information includes, but is not limited to, the time and number of times the handle switches states, the duration the handle is held in a gripping state, and the time and number of times the user passes over the handle.

[0083] The statistical information can be data collected within a preset time period, such as data from when a user starts using a home appliance for seven days, guiding the handle's operation based on statistics within a specific period. Alternatively, the statistical information can be continuously updated based on data collected from when the user starts using the appliance until the current moment, guiding the handle's operation based on this ongoing data. Or, the statistical information could also include user handle usage data from the first seven days of each month, guiding the handle's operation based on statistical data from multiple months.

[0084] Step 220: Obtain at least one of the date, time period and duration when the handle is in the gripping state based on statistical information, so as to determine at least one of the time when the handle is in the high-frequency use state and the first preset duration.

[0085] Taking a refrigerator as an example, by obtaining statistical information on the dates when the handle is in a gripping state, this information can be used to statistically determine the time periods and durations during which the user opens and closes the refrigerator from Monday to Friday, as well as on Saturdays and Sundays. Based on this information, the user's refrigerator usage patterns can be determined by weekday, thereby identifying the high-frequency usage periods from Monday to Friday and on Saturdays and Sundays. A first preset duration for the handle to be gripped can then be adjusted on a weekly basis. Alternatively, the dates and corresponding time periods for high-frequency usage within each month can be obtained; or the months with high-frequency usage within each year, such as Chinese New Year, winter vacation, and summer vacation, can be identified. Based on the months, high-frequency usage periods can be determined, and the time periods for high-frequency usage and the first preset duration for the handle to be gripped during these periods can be set accordingly, thus enhancing the refrigerator's intelligence.

[0086] In this embodiment, it can be understood that by using machine learning, the patterns of user handle usage are statistically analyzed to determine the time periods during which the handle is in a high-frequency usage state and a first preset duration. For example, within a week of the refrigerator's first startup, user habits are acquired, and based on these habits, the patterns of the handle being in a high-frequency usage state are determined, thereby determining the time periods, durations, and first preset durations during which the handle is in a gripping state. Alternatively, while the refrigerator is running, user habits are continuously acquired and learned to determine the patterns of the handle being in a high-frequency usage state, thereby determining the time periods, durations, and first preset durations during which the handle is in a gripping state.

[0087] The above implementation method involves the user passively using the handle, which automatically switches between a normal use state and a high-frequency use state. Of course, the user can also actively set the handle to switch from a normal use state to a high-frequency use state.

[0088] It is understandable that before step 110, that is, in the step of determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state, the following are included:

[0089] The high-frequency usage status is determined based on the input signal.

[0090] Users can actively control when the handle enters a high-frequency use state, and can adjust the state of the handle as needed, so that the state of the handle can better meet the user's needs.

[0091] Users can actively input signals to switch the handle from a regular use state to a high-frequency use state. This can be done through the refrigerator's display and control device, a mobile terminal's control program, or by using a dedicated button on the refrigerator or handle. Triggering this dedicated button switches the handle from a regular use state to a high-frequency use state, and triggering the button again switches it back to a regular use state. The operation is simple and can be customized to user needs.

[0092] The input signal includes at least one of a preset time period, a preset start time, and a trigger signal at the start time.

[0093] The preset time period can be understood as the time period during which the handle is in a high-frequency usage state. Users can preset this time period. For example, users can reserve the time period of high-frequency usage in advance, such as 12:00 to 1:00 and 6:00 to 7:00 every day, or 5:00 to 6:00 every Saturday, or 5:00 to 6:00 on holidays, etc.

[0094] Alternatively, the user can preset the start time of the high-frequency use state. If the user presets the start time of the high-frequency use state, the refrigerator can then automatically determine when to switch the handle from the high-frequency use state to the regular use state based on the usage situation. For example, if the handle is kept in the high-frequency use state and remains hidden for 30 minutes, the handle will be switched to the regular use state.

[0095] The initial trigger signal can be activated by pressing a dedicated button. Pressing the dedicated button will activate the high-frequency use mode, and pressing the dedicated button again will activate the normal use mode.

[0096] It is understandable that in step 120, that is, in the step of controlling the handle to maintain the grip state for the first preset time,

[0097] If the number of times the user passes the handle within the fourth preset time period is obtained, and the second number is greater than or equal to the second preset number, then the handle is controlled to extend the gripping state for a fifth preset time period; wherein the fourth preset time period is less than or equal to the first preset time period.

[0098] This can be understood as follows: if a user frequently passes by the handle while it is in a gripping state, the duration of the gripping state can be extended to allow the user to grip the handle again. The fourth preset duration can be understood as any duration less than or equal to the first preset duration. For example, if the first preset duration is 5 minutes and the fourth preset duration is 3 minutes, and the user passes by the handle 3 times within 3 minutes, then at that moment, the duration of the gripping state will be extended by 5 minutes to allow the user to grip the handle.

[0099] The second preset number of times can be any integer greater than or equal to 2, and can be set according to actual needs. The fifth preset duration can be any value, and its setting is not affected by the first or fourth preset durations, and can be set according to actual needs.

[0100] The second preset number of times a user passes the handle can be measured by a sensor installed on the device, door, or handle. This sensor can be a human body sensor; each time the sensor detects a user, it is determined that the user has passed the handle once. Alternatively, it can be detected by a camera; if the user is identified as being within a preset range, it is determined that the user has passed the handle once. Of course, the method for detecting the second preset number of times is not limited to these; other methods are also possible.

[0101] In the above real-time method, the number of times the user passes the handle is used to determine the time. In contrast, if the user is in front of the handle for more than a seventh preset time, the time the handle is held in the gripping state is extended by an eighth preset time.

[0102] In other words, if the system detects that a user has remained in front of the refrigerator for more than the seventh preset time, the probability of the user needing to open or close the refrigerator is high. Therefore, the time the handle remains in the gripping position is extended to facilitate user operation. The seventh and eighth preset times can be set as needed. The seventh preset time is less than or equal to the first preset time, extending the time the handle remains in the gripping position to reduce the number of times the handle position is switched. The eighth preset time is not subject to other restrictions and can be set as needed.

[0103] For example, if the first preset duration for holding the handle in the gripping state is 5 minutes, and the user stays in front of the refrigerator for 3 minutes within the first preset duration (seventh preset duration), and the time for holding the handle in the gripping state is extended by 5 minutes (eighth preset duration), the handle can be held in the gripping state for 10 minutes.

[0104] It is understandable that step 110, that is, the step of determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state, includes:

[0105] If the number of times the user passes the handle within the sixth preset time period is obtained, and the third number is greater than or equal to the third preset number, then the handle is determined to be in a high-frequency usage state.

[0106] Based on the number of times a user passes the handle within the sixth preset time period (the third preset number of times), it can be determined that the user frequently passes the handle, thus increasing the need for the user to grip it. In this case, the handle's state is set to a high-frequency use state to facilitate the user's grip. The sixth preset time period and the third preset number of times can be set according to actual needs, with the third preset number of times being greater than or equal to 2.

[0107] For example, if a user passes by the handle 5 times within 5 minutes, it is determined that the handle is in a high-frequency usage state. After switching the handle from the hidden position to the grip position, the handle's state can be controlled as described in the example above. Alternatively, if a user passes by the handle 5 times within 30 minutes, it can also be determined that the handle is in a high-frequency usage state.

[0108] The number of times a user passes the handle can be measured by sensors on the handle or door, such as human body sensors. The number of times a user is within the detection range of the sensor can be used as the number of times a user passes the handle.

[0109] Unlike the above-described embodiments, the handle control method includes:

[0110] Step 110: Determine that the handle is in a high-frequency use state;

[0111] Please refer to the above description for this step. At least one of the above methods can be used to determine that the handle is in a high-frequency use state, which will not be repeated here.

[0112] Step 130: Based on the fact that the handle is suitable for switching between a hidden state and a gripping state, obtain the number of times the handle switches between the hidden state and the gripping state, and control the handle to remain in the gripping state for a first preset duration as the number of switching increases.

[0113] The first preset duration is longer than the second preset duration, which is the duration for which the handle remains in a gripping state during normal use.

[0114] Step 130 is different from step 120 above, but the normal usage state and the second preset duration can be referred to the above content.

[0115] In step 130, the number of switching can be detected by a sensor or switch on the handle. For example, if the handle extends once or the cover opens once, it is counted as one switching. The number of switching is counted by the controller.

[0116] For handles in high-frequency use, the first preset duration for keeping the handle in the gripping state increases with the number of switching. This can be understood as follows: in high-frequency use, the handle is switched to the gripping state for the first time and held for 3 minutes; the handle is switched to the gripping state for the second time and held for 5 minutes; the handle is switched to the gripping state for the third time and held for 8 minutes, and so on. The first preset duration increases with each switch, but the specific method of increase is not limited.

[0117] By gradually increasing the duration the handle is held in a grip position, it becomes easier for users to use, reduces the number of times the handle needs to be switched, thereby reducing wear and tear on structural components during the switching process and extending the handle's lifespan.

[0118] In step 130, the first preset duration for which the control handle remains in the gripping state increases with the number of switching operations.

[0119] The first preset duration is increased by a preset time each time, wherein the preset time is a fixed value or a value that changes according to a preset rule;

[0120] The first preset duration can be increased in several ways: First, it can be increased according to a pre-defined pattern, such as a fixed preset time increasing by two minutes each time. Second, it can be increased in multiples of two minutes each time, for example, increasing by two minutes the first time, four minutes the second time, and six minutes the third time. Third, it can be set according to a pre-defined pattern based on user habits, such as increasing by two minutes the first time, five minutes the second time, and ten minutes the third time. Alternatively, the first preset duration can be set using other methods.

[0121] Based on the above implementation method, in step 130, the first preset duration is the input value.

[0122] Users can input the first preset duration for each switch through the refrigerator's display and control device or a mobile terminal (phone), such as 5 minutes for the first time, 8 minutes for the second time, 10 minutes for the third time, and so on.

[0123] It is understandable that after step 120, after the step of controlling the handle to maintain the gripping state for a first preset time,

[0124] A notification message will be sent during a preset time period before the first preset duration ends.

[0125] The preset time period before the end of the first preset duration can be understood as the preset time period before the handle switches from the gripped state to the hidden state. In other words, a prompt message is sent just before the handle's state switch, so that the user is aware that the handle is about to switch states. The preset time period can be 3 seconds, 5 seconds, or 10 seconds, and can be set as needed, such as by user input or system settings. The prompt message can be light, sound, or text. If the handle has a light, the prompt can be made by turning on or flashing the light; if the refrigerator has a voice player, a voice prompt can be made; if the refrigerator has a display, a text prompt can be made on the display.

[0126] Of course, after step 130, a notification message can also be sent during a preset time period before the first preset duration ends. Please refer to the above for details; further explanation is omitted here.

[0127] The following describes a handle control method using a handle structure as an example.

[0128] When the door is closed, the handle is hidden, and the actuator (the cover plate concealing the handle) is in its reset state. The actuator is flush with the door panel, and the handle is hidden, resulting in a clean and aesthetically pleasing door appearance. When a user approaches the door, a sensor mounted on the door detects a signal (either by touch or other means), controlling the actuator to move downwards to reveal the handle. The handle is then in a gripping position, allowing the user to pull it to open the door. After closing the door, a sensor switch on the door receives the closing signal. When the sensor detects the user's departure, it controls the actuator to return to its reset state, making it flush with the door.

[0129] Taking a refrigerator as an example of a household appliance, users need to frequently open and close the refrigerator door while cooking. For refrigerator doors with hidden handles, the handle can be controlled in the following way.

[0130] After a user uses the handle for the first time, the handle remains in a gripping state for 15 seconds, after which it returns to a hidden state. If another user grips the handle within 5 minutes (meaning the interval between the first and second grips is less than or equal to 5 minutes), the handle remains in a gripping state for 15 seconds, and this is considered a high-frequency usage state. After a user grips the handle a third time, the handle remains in a gripping state for 5 minutes, after which it returns to a hidden state. Before the handle returns to a hidden state, the handle indicator light flashes to alert the user.

[0131] By using software to identify high-frequency usage scenarios of the handle, the number of times the handle is opened and closed is reduced, improving user experience and extending the handle's lifespan. The structure is simple, reliable, and low-cost.

[0132] A second aspect of the present invention provides a handle control device, comprising:

[0133] The determination module is used to determine whether the handle is in a high-frequency usage state;

[0134] The control module, based on the handle being adapted to switch between a hidden state and a gripping state, is used to control the handle to remain in the gripping state for a first preset time before switching to the hidden state;

[0135] The first preset duration is longer than the second preset duration, which is the duration for which the handle remains in a gripping state in its normal state.

[0136] Understandably, the determination module is also used within the third preset time period to obtain the first number of times the handle switches between the hidden state and the gripping state. If the first number is greater than the first preset number, then the handle is determined to be in a high-frequency use state.

[0137] It is understandable that the handle control device also includes: a statistics module, used to obtain statistical information on the handle being in a gripping state within a preset time period;

[0138] The first acquisition module is used to acquire at least one of the date, time period and duration when the handle is in the gripping state based on statistical information, so as to determine at least one of the high-frequency use state time and the first preset duration.

[0139] The handle control device also includes an input module that determines the high-frequency usage status based on the input signal.

[0140] The input signal includes at least one of a preset time period, a preset start time, and a trigger signal at the start time.

[0141] The handle control device also includes: a second acquisition module, used to acquire the second number of times the user passes the handle within a fourth preset time period;

[0142] The control module determines that the second count is greater than or equal to the second preset count, and is also used to control the handle to extend the fifth preset duration in the gripping state; wherein the fourth preset duration is less than or equal to the first preset duration.

[0143] The handle control device also includes: a third acquisition module, used to acquire the third number of times the user passes the handle within a sixth preset time period;

[0144] The determination module determines whether the handle is in a high-frequency usage state based on the third count being greater than or equal to the third preset count.

[0145] In the above embodiments, the handle control device is used to execute the handle control method described above. For details, please refer to the contents of the handle control method described above, which will not be repeated here.

[0146] A third aspect of the present invention provides a household appliance, comprising:

[0147] Door body;

[0148] Handles are installed on the door.

[0149] The controller is used to execute the handle control method described above. The handle control method can be found in the above description and will not be repeated here.

[0150] Home appliances can include a variety of devices such as refrigerators, dishwashers, storage cabinets, and wine cabinets. Since there are many types of home appliances, the above-mentioned handle control methods can be applied to the corresponding home appliances according to actual needs.

[0151] Home appliances also include a trigger button, which connects to the controller and is used to switch the handle between high-frequency use and regular use modes. By pressing the trigger button, the user enters the high-frequency use mode; pressing it again enters the regular use mode.

[0152] The trigger button can be located on the handle, door, or other part of the appliance; its location is not limited. The trigger button can be a mechanical button or a touch button on the display screen, depending on the needs.

[0153] Figure 2 An example is a schematic diagram of the physical structure of an electronic device, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the electronic device may include a processor 810, a communications interface 820, a memory 830, and a communication bus 840, wherein the processor 810, the communications interface 820, and the memory 830 communicate with each other via the communication bus 840. The processor 810 can call logical instructions in the memory 830 to execute the following handle control method:

[0154] Ensure the handle is in a state of frequent use;

[0155] Based on the fact that the handle is suitable for switching between a hidden state and a gripping state, the handle is controlled to maintain the gripping state for a first preset duration;

[0156] The first preset duration is longer than the second preset duration, which is the duration for which the handle remains in a gripping state during normal use.

[0157] Furthermore, the logical instructions in the aforementioned memory 830 can be implemented as software functional units and, when sold or used as independent products, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the present invention, or the part that contributes to related technologies, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the methods described in the various embodiments of the present invention. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0158] Furthermore, this invention discloses a computer program product, which includes a computer program stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The computer program includes program instructions, and when these instructions are executed by a computer, the computer can execute the handle control methods provided in the above-described method embodiments, such as:

[0159] Ensure the handle is in a state of frequent use;

[0160] Based on the fact that the handle is suitable for switching between a hidden state and a gripping state, the handle is controlled to maintain the gripping state for a first preset duration;

[0161] The first preset duration is longer than the second preset duration, which is the duration for which the handle remains in a gripping state during normal use.

[0162] On the other hand, embodiments of the present invention also provide a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor, is implemented to perform the handle control methods provided in the above embodiments, including, for example:

[0163] Ensure the handle is in a state of frequent use;

[0164] Based on the fact that the handle is suitable for switching between a hidden state and a gripping state, the handle is controlled to maintain the gripping state for a first preset duration;

[0165] The first preset duration is longer than the second preset duration, which is the duration for which the handle remains in a gripping state during normal use.

[0166] The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs. Those skilled in the art can understand and implement this without any creative effort.

[0167] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that each embodiment can be implemented by means of software plus necessary general-purpose hardware platforms, and of course, it can also be implemented by hardware. Based on this understanding, the above technical solutions, in essence or the parts that contribute to the related technology, can be embodied in the form of software products. This computer software product can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, such as ROM / RAM, magnetic disk, optical disk, etc., and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods described in the various embodiments or some parts of the embodiments.

[0168] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A handle control method, characterized in that, include: It is determined that the handle is in a high-frequency use state; Based on the fact that the handle is adapted to switch between a hidden state and a gripping state, the handle is controlled to remain in the gripping state for a first preset duration; Wherein, the first preset duration is greater than the second preset duration, and the second preset duration is the duration for which the handle is held in the gripping state during normal use; In the step of controlling the handle to maintain the gripping state for a first preset duration If the number of times the user passes the handle within a fourth preset time period is obtained, and it is determined that the second number of times is greater than or equal to the second preset number of times, then the handle is controlled to extend the gripping state for a fifth preset time period; wherein the fourth preset time period is less than or equal to the first preset time period.

2. The handle control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state includes: Within a third preset time period, the first number of times the handle switches between the hidden state and the gripping state is obtained. If the first number of times is greater than or equal to the first preset number of times, then the handle is determined to be in a high-frequency use state.

3. The handle control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Before the step of determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state, the following steps are included: Obtain statistical information on the gripping state of the handle within a preset time period; Based on the statistical information, at least one of the date, time period, and duration when the handle is in the gripping state is obtained, so as to determine at least one of the time of the high-frequency use state and the first preset duration.

4. The handle control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state includes: The high-frequency usage status is determined based on the input signal.

5. The handle control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The input signal includes at least one of a preset time period, a preset start time, and a trigger signal for the start time.

6. The handle control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining that the handle is in a high-frequency use state includes: If the number of times the user passes the handle within a sixth preset time period is obtained, and the third number is determined to be greater than or equal to a third preset number, then the handle is determined to be in a high-frequency usage state.

7. The handle control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the step of controlling the handle to maintain the gripping state for a first preset time... A notification message is sent during a preset period before the first preset duration ends.

8. A handle control device, characterized in that, include: A determination module is used to determine whether the handle is in a high-frequency usage state; The control module, based on the fact that the handle is adapted to switch between a hidden state and a gripping state, is used to control the handle to remain in the gripping state for a first preset time and then switch to the hidden state; Wherein, the first preset duration is greater than the second preset duration, and the second preset duration is the duration for which the handle is held in the gripping state in a normal state; The second acquisition module is used to acquire the second number of times the user passes the handle within a fourth preset time period; The control module is further configured to determine that if the second number of times is greater than or equal to the second preset number of times, then control the handle to extend the gripping state for a fifth preset duration; wherein the fourth preset duration is less than or equal to the first preset duration.

9. A household appliance, characterized in that, include: Door body; A handle is provided on the door body; A controller for performing the handle control method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. The household appliance according to claim 9, characterized in that, Includes a trigger button connected to the controller, adapted to control the handle to switch between the high-frequency use state and the normal use state.

11. An electronic device comprising a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, characterized in that, When the processor executes the program, it implements the handle control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

12. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the handle control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

13. A computer program product, comprising a computer program, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the handle control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

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