A method for controlling a washing machine, a control device, and a washing machine.

Abstract

This invention discloses a control method, control device, and washing machine for a washing machine, relating to the field of electrical technology. The invention includes first responding to a wash start command by activating the water inlet valve to allow water to enter the inner tub, so that the water level reaches a set level. Then, if the set water level is determined to be within the rinsing water level range, the drain valve is controlled to drain water, and the motor is controlled to drive the inner tub to rotate for spin-drying and rinsing of the clothes. Finally, it is determined whether the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition, and if the rotation stop condition is met, the motor is controlled to stop rotating, and the drain valve is closed. Thus, under the centrifugal force of the rotating inner tub, the water level in the inner tub decreases, while the water level in the outer tub continuously rises. This enhances the rinsing effect of the clothes through the water level difference between the inner and outer tubs and the rinsing method of the clothes being washed from the inner tub to the outer tub.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electrical technology, and in particular to a control method, control device, and washing machine for a washing machine. Background Technology

[0002] When using a washing machine, users typically select a suitable washing mode based on the type of clothing to be washed. These modes may include, but are not limited to, quick wash, bulky item wash, and gentle wash. However, regardless of the selected mode, a pre-rinsing process is performed before washing the clothes. This is usually achieved by the rotation of an impeller within the washing machine, which creates a vortex in the water to rinse the clothes. However, the vortex created by the impeller's rotation typically has a relatively weak rinsing force, resulting in ineffective rinsing. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of the above problems, the present invention is proposed to provide a control method, control device, and washing machine that overcomes or at least partially solves the above problems.

[0004] Based on a first aspect of the present invention, a control method for a washing machine is provided, the method comprising:

[0005] In response to the washing start command, the water inlet valve is activated to allow water to enter, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set water level;

[0006] When the set water level is determined to be within the rinsing water level range, the drain valve is controlled to drain water, and the motor is controlled to drive the inner tub to rotate for dehydration and rinsing of the clothes.

[0007] Determine whether the operating status of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition;

[0008] When the rotation stops, the motor is controlled to stop rotating and the drain valve is closed.

[0009] Optionally, controlling the drain valve to drain water and controlling the motor to drive the inner tub to rotate includes:

[0010] The drain valve is controlled to drain water at a preset opening, and the motor is controlled to drive the inner tub to rotate, so that the water in the inner tub and the water in the outer tub create a water level difference to rinse the clothes.

[0011] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0012] The control motor drives the inner tub to rotate to dehydrate and rinse the clothes, and during the dehydration and rinsing process, the ratio of the current water level in the inner tub to the height of the inner tub is determined.

[0013] If the height ratio is less than the preset overflow ratio, control the water inlet valve to allow water to enter.

[0014] Optionally, determining whether the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition includes:

[0015] If a rinsing safety signal is detected, it is determined that the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition, wherein the rinsing safety signal is triggered when the inner tub hits the safety bar;

[0016] Optionally, determining whether the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition includes:

[0017] If the current water level is detected to have reached the overflow outlet, it is determined that the operating status of the inner tank meets the conditions for stopping rotation.

[0018] Optionally, determining whether the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition includes:

[0019] If the inner tub is detected to have rotated for a preset duration and the current water level is not detected to have reached the overflow outlet, it is determined that the inner tub's operating state meets the conditions for stopping rotation.

[0020] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0021] If the set water level is determined to be outside the rinsing water level range, and the set water level is lower than the lower limit of the rinsing water level range, the water inlet valve is activated to allow water to enter until the current water level is detected to be within the rinsing water level range and the water inlet valve is then closed.

[0022] If the set water level is higher than the upper limit of the rinsing water level range, the drain valve will be activated to drain water until the current water level is detected to be within the rinsing water level range.

[0023] Optionally, after closing the drain valve, the method further includes:

[0024] The preset rinsing time is determined based on the washing start command;

[0025] If the current rinsing time is less than the preset rinsing time, the water inlet valve is activated to allow water to enter, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set level and the dehydration and rinsing process is repeated.

[0026] Optionally, after closing the drain valve, the method further includes:

[0027] The preset rinsing time is determined based on the washing start command;

[0028] If the current rinsing time is less than the preset rinsing time, the water inlet valve is activated to allow water to enter, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set level and the impeller is used for rinsing.

[0029] Based on a second aspect of the present invention, a control device for a washing machine is also provided, the control device comprising:

[0030] The instruction response module is used to respond to the washing start instruction by activating the water inlet valve to allow water to enter the inner tub so that the water level reaches the set level.

[0031] The dehydration and rinsing module is used to control the drain valve to drain water and control the motor to drive the inner tub to rotate for dehydration and rinsing of clothes when the set water level is determined to be within the rinsing water level range.

[0032] The status determination module is used to determine whether the operating status of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition;

[0033] The motion control module is used to control the motor to stop rotating and close the drain valve when the rotation stop state is met.

[0034] Based on a third aspect of the present invention, a washing machine is also provided, the washing machine including the control device described in the above-described invention.

[0035] Compared to existing technologies, this invention includes first responding to a washing start command by activating the water inlet valve to allow water to enter the inner tub and reach a set water level. Then, if the set water level is determined to be within the rinsing water level range, the drain valve is controlled to drain water, and the motor is controlled to drive the inner tub to rotate for spin-drying and rinsing of the clothes. Finally, it is determined whether the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition, and if the rotation stop condition is met, the motor is controlled to stop rotating, and the drain valve is closed. Thus, under the centrifugal force of the rotating inner tub, the water level in the inner tub decreases, while the water level in the outer tub continuously rises. This enhances the rinsing effect of the clothes through the water level difference between the inner and outer tubs and the rinsing method of the clothes being washed from the inner tub to the outer tub.

[0036] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution of the present invention. In order to better understand the technical means of the present invention and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention are described below. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings.

[0038] In the attached diagram:

[0039] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the electrical connection structure of a controller provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a washing machine control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of another washing machine control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a control device for a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Reference numerals in the attached diagram: 1. Motor; 2. Controller; 3. Inlet valve; 4. Drain valve. Detailed Implementation

[0044] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the invention may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this invention will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0045] The following embodiments of the invention are applied to a pulsator washing machine, which includes an outer tub (water tank), an inner tub (spin-drying tub or washing tub) embedded in the outer tub, and a motor 1. The inner tub is used to hold clothes and is coaxially arranged with the outer tub. The output shaft of the motor 1 is coaxially fixed with the inner tub, and the motor 1 drives the inner tub to rotate. A disc-shaped impeller with protruding ribs is provided at the bottom of the inner tub. In the prior art, during the rinsing process, the impeller rotates while the inner tub remains stationary, creating a vortex that rotates clockwise and counterclockwise, causing the clothes to rotate and tumble with the vortex, thereby achieving the removal of dirt from the clothes.

[0046] Reference Figure 1As shown, the washing machine may further include a controller 2, a water inlet valve 3, and a water outlet valve. The motor 1, water inlet valve 3, and water outlet valve can be electrically connected to the controller 2 respectively. Thus, the controller 2 can control the operation of the motor 1, water inlet valve 3, and water outlet valve. The following method embodiments are applied to the controller 2. The control method disclosed in this application may include first, responding to a washing start command, activating the water inlet valve to allow water to enter, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches a set water level. Then, if the set water level is determined to be within the rinsing water level range, controlling the drain valve to drain water and controlling the motor to drive the inner tub to rotate for spin-drying and rinsing the clothes. Finally, determining whether the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition, and if the rotation stop condition is met, controlling the motor to stop rotating and closing the drain valve. Thus, under the action of centrifugal water flow generated by the rotation of the inner tub, the water level in the inner tub decreases, while the water level in the outer tub continuously rises. This enhances the rinsing effect of the clothes through the water level difference between the inner and outer tubs and the rinsing method of the clothes being rinsed by rotation from the inner tub to the outer tub.

[0047] Reference Figure 2 The diagram illustrates a flowchart of a control method for a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. The method may include:

[0048] S201. In response to the washing start command, the water inlet valve is activated to allow water to enter, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set water level.

[0049] In this embodiment of the invention, in response to a user's editing operation on the start control (or start switch) on the washing machine, a washing start command is obtained, which is used to start the washing program. The set water level can be understood as the water level set during the washing of clothes, which can be set by the user or determined based on the weight of the clothes in the inner drum.

[0050] In one example, after receiving the washing start command, it detects whether the user has edited the water level control (or water level adjustment switch) on the washing machine. If the user's edit operation on the water level control is detected, the user's set water level is obtained.

[0051] In another example, when a washing start command is received and no user editing operation on the water level control (or water level adjustment switch) is detected, the corresponding set water level is matched by the weight of the clothes located in the inner tub.

[0052] In another example, if a wash start command is received and no user editing operation on the water level control is detected, the corresponding set water level can be matched based on the user-selected wash mode. Those skilled in the art can select any one of the above methods, or a combination thereof, to determine the set water level according to actual design requirements. For example, the set wash mode may include, but is not limited to, quick wash, bulky item wash, etc.

[0053] Therefore, once the corresponding set water level is determined, the water inlet valve 3 is activated to open the water inlet valve 3 and add water to the inner tank, so that the water level in the inner tank reaches (greater than or equal to) the set water level.

[0054] S202. When it is determined that the set water level is within the rinsing water level range, the drain valve is controlled to drain water, and the motor is controlled to drive the inner tub to rotate for dehydration and rinsing of the clothes.

[0055] In this embodiment of the invention, the rinsing water level range refers to a pre-set water level range for dehydrating and rinsing clothes. This range ensures a good rinsing effect. The obtained set water level can be compared with the rinsing water level range to determine if the set water level falls within the rinsing water level range. If the set water level is determined to be within the rinsing water level range, it is determined that the current water level is suitable for dehydration and rinsing, and thus, the drain valve 4 is controlled to drain water. At this time, the drain valve 4 is in the open state, and the inlet valve 3 is in the closed state. The motor 1 is then controlled to rotate, thereby driving the inner tub to rotate for dehydration and rinsing of the clothes. Under the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the inner tub, the water level in the inner tub decreases, while the water level in the outer tub continuously rises. This difference in water level between the inner and outer tubs, along with the rinsing method of the clothes being rinsed from the inner tub to the outer tub, enhances the rinsing effect.

[0056] In this embodiment of the invention, to ensure the dehydration and rinsing effect of the clothes, the drain valve needs to be adjusted to a preset drain opening during the drainage process. This preset drain opening can be understood as the valve opening that ensures the clothes are fully soaked in water. This prevents the water in the inner tub from being drained too quickly, which would affect the rinsing effect. For example, the preset drain opening can be 4%, 5%, or 6%, etc.

[0057] S203. Determine whether the operating status of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition.

[0058] S204. When the rotation stop condition is met, control the motor to stop rotating and close the drain valve.

[0059] In this embodiment of the invention, the rotation stop condition can be understood as a trigger condition that stops the motor 1 during the spin-drying and rinsing process. The rotation stop condition can be preset based on the operating state of the inner tub. Specifically, the rotation stop condition can be determined based on parameters such as the rotation amplitude, rotation duration, and water level of the inner tub. When the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition, the motor 1 is controlled to stop rotating, and the drain valve 4 is closed, thereby completing one spin-drying and rinsing cycle of the clothes.

[0060] In summary, this invention discloses a control method for a washing machine. The method may include first activating the water inlet valve 3 in response to a washing start command, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches a set level. Then, if the set water level is determined to be within the rinsing water level range, the drain valve 4 is controlled to drain water, and the motor 1 is controlled to drive the inner tub to rotate for spin-drying and rinsing of the clothes. Finally, it is determined whether the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition, and if the rotation stop condition is met, the motor 1 is controlled to stop rotating, and the drain valve 4 is closed. Thus, under the centrifugal force of the rotating inner tub, the water level in the inner tub decreases, while the water level in the outer tub continuously rises. This enhances the rinsing effect of the clothes through the water level difference between the inner and outer tubs and the rinsing method of the clothes being washed from the inner tub to the outer tub.

[0061] Reference Figure 3 The diagram illustrates a flowchart of another control method for a washing machine provided by an embodiment of the present invention. The method may include:

[0062] S301. In response to the washing start command, the water inlet valve is activated to allow water to enter, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set water level.

[0063] In this embodiment of the invention, in response to a user's editing operation on the start control (or start switch) on the washing machine, a washing start command is obtained, which is used to start the washing program. The set water level can be understood as the water level set during the washing of clothes. The set water level can be set by the user or determined based on the weight of the clothes in the inner drum.

[0064] In one example, after receiving the washing start command, it detects whether the user has edited the water level control (or water level adjustment switch) on the washing machine. If the user's edit operation on the water level control is detected, the user's set water level is obtained.

[0065] In another example, when a washing start command is received and no user editing operation on the water level control (or water level adjustment switch) is detected, the corresponding set water level is matched by the weight of the clothes located in the inner tub.

[0066] In another example, if a wash start command is received and no user editing operation on the water level control is detected, the corresponding set water level can be matched based on the user-selected wash mode. Those skilled in the art can select any one of the above methods, or a combination thereof, to determine the set water level according to actual design requirements. For example, the set wash mode may include, but is not limited to, quick wash, large item wash, etc. Thus, upon determining the corresponding set water level, the water inlet valve 3 is activated to open it, replenishing water into the inner tub, thereby ensuring that the water level in the inner tub reaches (greater than or equal to) the set water level.

[0067] S302. Determine whether the set water level is within the rinsing water level range.

[0068] In this embodiment of the invention, the rinsing water level range refers to a pre-set water level range for rinsing and dehydrating clothes, which ensures a good rinsing effect. Those skilled in the art can determine the corresponding rinsing water level range based on the actual operating conditions of the washing machine. For example, at the water level corresponding to this rinsing water level range, the centrifugal water flow generated by the high rotation speed of the inner drum has a good rinsing effect on the clothes and will not cause overflow risk. For example, the rinsing water level range can be 35-40L, 40-45L, etc., and is not limited in detail here.

[0069] If it is determined that the set water level is not within the rinsing water level range, the following step S303 is executed; if it is determined that the set water level is within the rinsing water level range, the following step S306 is executed.

[0070] In one optional embodiment of the invention, considering that there are relatively few clothes in the tub, the user typically sets a lower preset washing water level to save water. Therefore, for different preset washing water levels, there can be multiple corresponding rinsing water level ranges. For example, the rinsing water level range may include a first rinsing water level range and a second rinsing water level range. Alternatively, the rinsing water level range may include a first rinsing water level range, a second rinsing water level range, and a third rinsing water level range, etc. Thus, when there are at least two rinsing water level ranges, if the preset water level falls within any one of the rinsing water level ranges, then the preset water level is determined to be within a rinsing water level range. If the preset water level does not fall within any of the rinsing water level ranges, then the preset water level is determined to be outside a rinsing water level range.

[0071] For example, the first rinsing water level range can be 35-40L, and the second rinsing water level range can be 50-55L, etc. If the set water level is 44L, then it is determined that the set water level is not within the rinsing water level range. If the set water level is 40L, then it is determined that the set water level is within the rinsing water level range.

[0072] S303. Determine whether the set water level is lower than the lower limit water level of the rinsing water level range.

[0073] In this embodiment of the invention, if the set water level is lower than the rinsing water level range, it may affect the rinsing effect of the clothes in the current tub. That is, during the spin-drying and rinsing process, there may be insufficient water in the tub and a large number of clothes, resulting in an unsatisfactory spin-drying and rinsing effect. If the set water level is higher than the rinsing water level range, it may cause water generated by the rotation of motor 1 during the spin-drying and rinsing process to overflow from the machine body or from the overflow outlet, affecting the operational stability of the washing machine. Therefore, if it is determined that the set water level is not within the rinsing water level range, it is further determined whether the set water level is lower than the lower limit of the rinsing water level range or higher than the upper limit of the rinsing water level range. If the set water level is lower than the lower limit of the rinsing water level range, step S304 is executed; if the set water level is higher than the upper limit of the rinsing water level range, step S305 is executed.

[0074] In some implementations, if there are at least two rinsing water level intervals, the rinsing water level interval with the smallest water level difference from the set water level is pre-determined, and then it is determined whether the set water level is lower than the lower limit water level of that rinsing water level interval. As described above, if the set water level is 44L, it is determined that the set water level is not within the rinsing water level interval. In this case, the lower limit water level corresponding to the second rinsing water level interval is 50L, and the water level difference between it and the set water level is 6L. The upper limit water level corresponding to the first rinsing water level interval is 40L, and the water level difference between it and the set water level is 4L. Thus, the water level difference between the set water level and the first rinsing water level interval is the smallest. At this time, it is determined whether the set water level is lower than the lower limit water level of the first rinsing water level interval.

[0075] S304. Start the water inlet valve to allow water to enter, and close the water inlet valve when the current water level is detected to be within the rinsing water level range.

[0076] In this embodiment of the invention, when the set water level is lower than the lower limit of the rinsing water level range, the water inlet valve 3 of the washing machine can be activated, making the water inlet valve 3 open, thereby adding water to the inner tub. At this time, the water inlet valve 3 is in the open state, and the drain valve 4 is in the closed state. The water inlet valve 3 is then closed until the current water level is detected to be within the rinsing water level range.

[0077] S305. Start the drain valve to drain water until the current water level is detected to be within the rinsing water level range.

[0078] In this embodiment of the invention, when the set water level is higher than the upper limit of the rinsing water level range, during the process of the motor 1 driving the inner tub to rotate at high speed for dehydration and rinsing, the water flow between the inner tub and the outer tub overflows through the overflow port or overflows outside the machine body under the action of centrifugal force. Therefore, the drain valve 4 can be activated to drain water, that is, the drain valve 4 is controlled to be in the open state, and the water inlet valve 3 is in the closed state.

[0079] S306. Control the drain valve to drain water, and control the motor to drive the inner tub to rotate for dehydration and rinsing of clothes.

[0080] In this embodiment of the invention, when the current water level is determined to have reached the rinsing water level range, the drain valve 4 is controlled to drain water. If the drain valve 4 was previously in the closed state, it is switched to the open state, at which point the inlet valve 3 is in the closed state. If the drain valve 4 was previously in the open state, it remains open, and the inlet valve 3 is in the closed state. Simultaneously, the motor 1 is controlled to rotate, causing the water level in the inner tub to drop and the water level in the outer tub to rise continuously. This enhances the rinsing effect of the clothes by using the water level difference between the inner and outer tubs and the rinsing method of rinsing the clothes from the inner tub to the outer tub through rotation.

[0081] In this embodiment of the invention, to ensure the dehydration and rinsing effect of the clothes, the drain valve needs to be adjusted to a preset drain opening during the drainage process. This preset drain opening can be understood as the valve opening that ensures the clothes are fully soaked in water. This prevents the water in the inner tub from being drained too quickly, which would affect the rinsing effect. For example, the preset drain opening can be 4%, 5%, or 6%, etc.

[0082] In an optional embodiment of the invention, the rotational speed of the motor 1 can also be controlled during the dehydration and rinsing process. For example, during the dehydration and rinsing process, the motor 1 can be subjected to variable speed control based on the current water level. For example, a first preset water level may be close to but lower than the overflow outlet. For example, the setting height of the first preset water level may be 10 cm lower than the setting height of the overflow outlet. Those skilled in the art can determine the first preset water level based on experimental results. The first preset water level is the water level corresponding to the centrifugal water flow generated by the rotation of the motor 1, and this water level is higher than the upper limit water level corresponding to the rinsing water level range.

[0083] Therefore, when the current water level is lower than the first preset water level, the motor 1 continues to increase its speed. This continues until the current water level is detected to have reached the first preset water level, maintaining the current speed of the motor 1. This allows the motor 1 to enable the inner tub to spin-dry at a high speed during rinsing, achieving maximum water flow speed to wash the clothes, enhancing the rinsing effect, while preventing excessive speed that could cause water to overflow from the overflow outlet or the machine body.

[0084] When there are at least two rinsing water level intervals, the number of preset water levels referenced for the speed control of the motor 1 can also be adapted to the number of rinsing water level intervals. For example, the first preset water level can be associated with a first rinsing water level interval, and the second preset water level can be associated with a second rinsing water level interval. The preset water level is directly proportional to the water level range corresponding to the rinsing water level interval. That is, when the first preset water level is greater than the second preset water level, the water level range corresponding to the first rinsing water level interval is greater than the water level range of the second rinsing water level interval. For example, the second preset water level can be 10cm lower than the first preset water level.

[0085] Based on this logic, those skilled in the art can determine the first preset water level and the second preset water level according to the actual operating conditions. Alternatively, they can determine the first preset water level, the second preset water level, and the third preset water level, etc., without further limitation here. Therefore, when the current water level is lower than the corresponding preset water level, the motor 1 continues to be adjusted to increase its speed. This continues until the current water level is detected to have reached the corresponding preset water level, and the current speed of the motor 1 is maintained. This allows the motor 1 to enable the inner tub to spin-dry at a high speed during rinsing when the water level in the tub is close to the set water level, achieving maximum water flow speed to rinse the clothes, enhancing the rinsing effect, while preventing excessive speed that could trigger a rinsing safety signal, or cause water to overflow from the overflow outlet or the machine body.

[0086] S307. During the dehydration and rinsing process, determine the ratio of the current water level in the inner tub to the height of the inner tub.

[0087] S308. If the height ratio is less than the preset overflow ratio, control the water inlet valve to allow water to enter.

[0088] In this embodiment of the invention, during the spin-drying and rinsing process, the height ratio between the current water level in the tub and the height of the inner tub can be detected. The preset overflow ratio can be understood as the critical ratio at which overflow occurs when the inner tub rotates. The preset overflow ratio is used to assess whether there is a risk of overflow. Those skilled in the art can select the corresponding preset overflow ratio based on factors such as the rotational speed of motor 1, the amount of laundry, and the water level during spin-drying and rinsing; no further limitations are imposed here. For example, the preset overflow ratio can be three-quarters, seven-eighths, etc.

[0089] If the height ratio is less than the preset overflow ratio, it is determined that there is no risk of overflow during the inner tub's rotation (i.e., water in the tub will not overflow from the overflow port). Therefore, water can be controlled to enter through the inlet valve 3. At this time, the inlet valve 3 is open, and the drain valve 4 is also open. This allows for continuous water replenishment during the spin-drying and rinsing process, reducing washing time during repeated spin-drying and rinsing. In some embodiments, controlling the inlet valve 3 to enter water can also be done by controlling it to enter water at a preset inlet opening degree. This preset opening degree ensures slow replenishment of water to the inner tub, increasing the soaking effect on clothes and improving the cleaning of dirt. It also prevents overflow caused by the water level rising too quickly in the tub. For example, the preset inlet opening degree can be 4%, 5%, or 6%, etc.

[0090] If the height ratio is greater than or equal to the preset overflow ratio, it is determined that there is a risk of overflow during the rotation of the inner tank. In this case, while ensuring that the drain valve 4 is open, it is also necessary to ensure that the inlet valve 3 is closed.

[0091] S309. Determine whether the operating status of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition.

[0092] In this embodiment of the invention, the rotation stop condition can be understood as a trigger condition that stops the operation of motor 1 during the dehydration and rinsing process. It can be preset based on the operating state of the inner tub. Specifically, the rotation stop condition can be determined based on parameters such as the rotation amplitude, rotation duration, and water level of the inner tub.

[0093] In an optional embodiment of the invention, step S309 may further include the following sub-step: if a rinsing safety signal is detected, determine that the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition.

[0094] In this embodiment of the invention, during the dehydration and rinsing process, it is determined whether a rinsing safety signal is detected. This rinsing safety signal is triggered when the inner tub impacts a safety rod. A safety switch is mounted on the safety rod to prevent the inner tub from rotating excessively during dehydration and rinsing, thus avoiding displacement due to impact with the water container. Therefore, if the rinsing safety signal transmitted by the safety switch is detected, it is determined that the inner tub's operating state meets the rotation stop condition.

[0095] In another optional embodiment of the invention, step S309 may further include the following sub-step: if the current water level is detected to have reached the overflow outlet, determine that the operating state of the inner tank meets the rotation stop condition.

[0096] In this embodiment of the invention, during the dehydration and rinsing process, it is detected whether the current water level has reached the overflow outlet. If the current water level is detected to have reached the overflow outlet, it is determined that the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition.

[0097] In another optional embodiment of the invention, step S309 may further include the following sub-step: if the rotation time of the inner tub reaches the preset running time and the current water level does not reach the overflow outlet, determine that the running state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition.

[0098] In this embodiment of the invention, during the dehydration and rinsing process, the rotation duration of the inner tub can be detected, and simultaneously, it can be detected whether the current water level has reached the overflow outlet. If the rotation duration of the inner tub reaches a preset running time, and the current water level has not reached the overflow outlet, it is determined that the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition.

[0099] S310. When the rotation stop condition is met, control the motor to stop rotating and close the drain valve.

[0100] In this embodiment of the invention, when it is determined that the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop state, that is, the motor 1 is controlled to stop rotating and the drain valve 4 is closed. At this time, the drain valve 4 is in the closed state and the water inlet valve 3 is also in the closed state, thereby completing one spin-drying and rinsing of the clothes.

[0101] If the inner tub's operating state meets the rotation stop condition by detecting a rinsing safety signal, in order to ensure the stable operation of the washing program, after closing the drain valve 4, it can still enter the basic rinsing mode driven by the impeller rotation. That is, the water inlet valve 3 is opened, at which time the drain valve 4 is closed, and the water inlet valve 3 is open to replenish the water level in the tub to the set level. Then the water inlet valve 3 is closed, allowing the impeller to rotate and drive the water flow to rinse the clothes.

[0102] In some optional embodiments of the invention, after performing step S310, the method may further include: determining a preset rinsing time based on the washing start command. If the current rinsing time is less than the preset rinsing time, the water inlet valve 3 is activated to allow water to enter, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set water level and the spin-dry rinsing is performed again.

[0103] In this embodiment of the invention, the preset rinsing time refers to the rinsing time set for different set washing modes. Different set washing modes correspond to different preset rinsing times. The set washing mode and the preset rinsing time can be preset to form a rinsing mapping relationship. The washing start command includes the set washing mode. Therefore, the current set washing mode can be matched with the rinsing mapping relationship to determine the corresponding preset rinsing time.

[0104] During the rinsing process, the current rinsing time is detected. If the current rinsing time is less than the preset rinsing time, the water inlet valve 3 is activated to allow water to enter the inner tub and reach the set water level, then the spin-drying and rinsing process is repeated. Alternatively, if the current rinsing time is less than the preset rinsing time, the steps described in S301-S310 are repeated. This continues until the current rinsing time is equal to or greater than the preset rinsing time, at which point the rinsing stage of the garments is considered complete.

[0105] In one optional embodiment of the invention, when there are at least two rinsing water level intervals, after the first spin-drying and rinsing cycle is completed, during the repeated spin-drying and rinsing process, the rinsing water level intervals corresponding to the spin-drying and rinsing cycles can decrease sequentially. For example, when there are two rinsing cycles for a quick wash, the rinsing water level interval corresponding to the first spin-drying and rinsing cycle is higher than the rinsing water level interval corresponding to the second spin-drying and rinsing cycle. That is, the lower limit of the rinsing water level interval corresponding to the first spin-drying and rinsing cycle is higher than the upper limit of the rinsing water level interval corresponding to the second spin-drying and rinsing cycle. Therefore, during the spin-drying and rinsing process, the motor speed can be adjusted so that the motor speed corresponding to the first spin-drying and rinsing cycle is lower than the motor speed corresponding to the second spin-drying and rinsing cycle. This allows for water conservation while ensuring the rinsing force of the rotating water flow on the clothes by increasing the motor speed, thereby greatly improving the rinsing effect of the clothes.

[0106] In some alternative embodiments of the invention, after performing step S310, the method may further include: determining a preset rinsing time based on the washing start command. If the current rinsing time is less than the preset rinsing time, the water inlet valve 3 is activated to allow water to enter, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set water level and the impeller is used for rinsing.

[0107] In this embodiment of the invention, the preset rinsing time refers to the rinsing time set for different set washing modes. Different set washing modes correspond to different preset rinsing times. The set washing mode and the preset rinsing time can be preset to form a rinsing mapping relationship. The washing start command includes the set washing mode. Therefore, the current set washing mode can be matched with the rinsing mapping relationship to determine the corresponding preset rinsing time.

[0108] During the rinsing process, the current rinsing time is detected. If the current rinsing time is less than the preset rinsing time, the water inlet valve 3 is activated to allow water to enter, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set level and the impeller rinses. In other words, the impeller rotates, driving water to rinse the clothes in the tub for a basic rinse. After one impeller rinse is completed, if the current rinsing time is still less than the preset rinsing time, the steps described in S301-S310 can be repeated.

[0109] This allows for alternating pulsator rinsing (normal) and spin-drying rinsing until the current rinsing time is equal to or greater than the preset rinsing time, thus completing the rinsing stage of the garment.

[0110] In summary, the washing machine control method provided by this invention includes: firstly, responding to a washing start command, activating the water inlet valve 3 to allow water to enter, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches a set level. Then, when it is determined that the set water level is within the rinsing water level range, controlling the drain valve 4 to drain water, and controlling the motor 1 to drive the inner tub to rotate for spin-drying and rinsing of the clothes. Finally, determining whether the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition, and if the rotation stop condition is met, controlling the motor 1 to stop rotating and closing the drain valve 4. Thus, under the action of centrifugal water flow generated by the rotation of the inner tub, the water level in the inner tub decreases, while the water level in the outer tub continuously rises. This enhances the rinsing effect of the clothes through the water level difference between the inner and outer tubs and the rinsing method of the clothes being washed from the inner tub to the outer tub by rotation.

[0111] It should be noted that, for the sake of simplicity, the method embodiments are all described as a series of actions. However, those skilled in the art should understand that the embodiments of this application are not limited to the described order of actions, because according to the embodiments of this application, some steps can be performed in other orders or simultaneously. Secondly, those skilled in the art should also understand that the embodiments described in the specification are all preferred embodiments, and the actions involved are not necessarily required by the embodiments of this application.

[0112] Reference Figure 4 This illustration shows a control device for a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. The device may include:

[0113] The instruction response module 401 is used to respond to the washing start instruction and start the water inlet valve 3 to allow water to enter so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set water level.

[0114] The dehydration and rinsing module 402 is used to control the drain valve 4 to drain water and control the motor 1 to drive the inner tub to rotate for dehydration and rinsing of clothes when the set water level is determined to be within the rinsing water level range.

[0115] The status determination module 403 is used to determine whether the operating status of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition.

[0116] The motion control module 404 is used to control the motor 1 to stop rotating and close the drain valve 4 when the rotation stop state is met.

[0117] In an optional embodiment of the invention, the state determination module 403 may also be used for:

[0118] If a rinsing safety signal is detected, it is determined that the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition, wherein the rinsing safety signal is triggered when the inner tub hits the safety bar.

[0119] In an optional embodiment of the invention, the state determination module 403 may also be used for:

[0120] If the current water level is detected to have reached the overflow outlet, it is determined that the operating status of the inner tank meets the conditions for stopping rotation.

[0121] In an optional embodiment of the invention, the state determination module 403 may also be used for:

[0122] If the inner tub is detected to have rotated for a preset duration and the current water level is not detected to have reached the overflow outlet, it is determined that the inner tub's operating state meets the conditions for stopping rotation.

[0123] In an optional embodiment of the invention, the apparatus may further include:

[0124] The water inlet valve 3 control module is used to start water inlet valve 3 to allow water to enter when the set water level is determined to be below the lower limit of the rinsing water level range, and to close water inlet valve 3 when the current water level is detected to be within the rinsing water level range.

[0125] The inlet valve 3 control module is also used to activate the drain valve 4 to drain water if the set water level is higher than the upper limit of the rinsing water level range, until the current water level is detected to be within the rinsing water level range.

[0126] In one optional embodiment of the invention, the dehydration and rinsing module 402 can also be used for:

[0127] The control motor 1 drives the inner tub to rotate to dehydrate and rinse the clothes, and during the dehydration and rinsing process, the ratio of the current water level in the inner tub to the height of the inner tub is determined.

[0128] If the height ratio is less than the preset overflow ratio, control the water inlet valve 3 to allow water to enter.

[0129] In an optional embodiment of the invention, the apparatus may further include:

[0130] The rinsing time acquisition module is used to determine the preset rinsing time based on the washing start command.

[0131] The rinsing update module is used to activate the water inlet valve 3 to allow water to enter if the current rinsing time is less than the preset rinsing time, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set water level and the dehydration and rinsing are repeated.

[0132] In one optional embodiment of the invention, the rinsing time acquisition module is used to determine a preset rinsing time based on the washing start command.

[0133] The rinsing update module is also used to activate the water inlet valve 3 to allow water to enter if the current rinsing time is less than the preset rinsing time, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set water level and the impeller is used for rinsing.

[0134] This invention also discloses a washing machine, which may include the control device described in any of the above embodiments.

[0135] In summary, the present invention provides a washing machine control method, control device, and washing machine. The control method may include first activating the water inlet valve 3 to allow water to enter in response to a washing start command, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches a set water level. Then, if the set water level is determined to be within the rinsing water level range, the drain valve 4 is controlled to drain water, and the motor 1 is controlled to drive the inner tub to rotate for spin-drying and rinsing of the clothes. Finally, it is determined whether the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition, and if the rotation stop condition is met, the motor 1 is controlled to stop rotating, and the drain valve 4 is closed. Thus, under the action of centrifugal water flow generated by the rotation of the inner tub, the water level in the inner tub decreases, while the water level in the outer tub continuously rises. This enhances the rinsing effect of the clothes through the water level difference between the inner and outer tubs and the rinsing method of the clothes being rinsed by rotation from the inner tub to the outer tub.

[0136] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from other embodiments. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other.

[0137] It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that any combination of the above embodiments is feasible, and therefore any combination of the above embodiments is an implementation scheme of the present invention. However, due to space limitations, this specification will not describe them in detail here.

[0138] Numerous specific details are set forth in the specification provided herein. However, it will be understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this specification.

[0139] Similarly, it should be understood that, in order to simplify the invention and aid in understanding one or more of the various inventive aspects, features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof in the above description of exemplary embodiments of the invention. However, this disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the claims, inventive aspects lie in fewer than all features of the single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description are hereby expressly incorporated into that detailed description, wherein each claim itself is a separate embodiment of the invention.

[0140] Those skilled in the art will understand that modules in the device of the embodiments can be adaptively changed and placed in one or more devices different from that embodiment. Modules, units, or components in the embodiments can be combined into a single module, unit, or component, and further, they can be divided into multiple sub-modules, sub-units, or sub-components. Except where at least some of such features and / or processes or units are mutually exclusive, any combination can be used to combine all features disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) and all processes or units of any method or device so disclosed. Unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by an alternative feature that serves the same, equivalent, or similar purpose.

[0141] An electronic device, comprising:

[0142] One or more processors;

[0143] Memory;

[0144] One or more programs, wherein the one or more programs are stored in the memory and configured to be executed by the one or more processors, the one or more programs being configured to perform the methods described in the above embodiments.

[0145] A computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program for use in conjunction with an electronic device, the computer program being executable by a processor to perform the methods described in the embodiments above.

[0146] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of the present invention can be provided as methods, apparatus, or computer program products. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention can take the form of entirely hardware embodiments, entirely software embodiments, or embodiments combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention can take the form of computer program products implemented on one or more computer-usable storage media (including but not limited to disk storage, CD-ROM, optical storage, etc.) containing computer-usable program code.

[0147] This invention is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, terminal devices (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing terminal device to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing terminal device, generate instructions for implementing the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0148] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing terminal device to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means, which are implemented in a process Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The function specified in one or more boxes.

[0149] These computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing terminal equipment, causing a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable terminal equipment to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable terminal equipment for implementing the process. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The steps of the function specified in one or more boxes.

[0150] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described, those skilled in the art, upon learning the basic inventive concept, can make other changes and modifications to these embodiments. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to be interpreted as including the preferred embodiments as well as all changes and modifications falling within the scope of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0151] Finally, it should be noted that in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or terminal device that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or terminal device. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or terminal device that includes said element.

[0152] The foregoing has provided a detailed description of a washing machine control method, a washing machine control device, and a washing machine as provided by the present invention. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of the present invention. The descriptions of the above embodiments are only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of the present invention. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of the present invention. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for a washing machine, characterized in that, The method includes: In response to the washing start command, the water inlet valve is activated to allow water to enter, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set water level; When the set water level is determined to be within the rinsing water level range, the drain valve is controlled to drain water, and the motor is controlled to drive the inner tub to rotate for dehydration and rinsing of the clothes. The rinsing water level range includes at least a first rinsing water level range and a second rinsing water level range. When there are at least two rinsing water level ranges, if the set water level is within any one of the rinsing water level ranges, the set water level is determined to be within the rinsing water level range. If the set water level is not within any of the rinsing water level ranges, the set water level is determined to be outside the rinsing water level range. Determine whether the operating status of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition; When the rotation stops, the motor is controlled to stop rotating and the drain valve is closed.

2. The control method for a washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control of the drain valve to drain water and the control of the motor to drive the inner tub to rotate include: The drain valve is controlled to drain water at a preset opening, and the motor is controlled to drive the inner tub to rotate, so that the water in the inner tub and the water in the outer tub create a water level difference to rinse the clothes.

3. The control method for a washing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: The control motor drives the inner tub to rotate to dehydrate and rinse the clothes, and during the dehydration and rinsing process, the ratio of the current water level in the inner tub to the height of the inner tub is determined. If the height ratio is less than the preset overflow ratio, control the water inlet valve to allow water to enter.

4. The control method for a washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, Determining whether the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition includes: If a rinsing safety signal is detected, it is determined that the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition, wherein the rinsing safety signal is triggered when the inner tub hits the safety bar.

5. The control method for a washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, Determining whether the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition includes: If the current water level is detected to have reached the overflow outlet, it is determined that the operating status of the inner tank meets the conditions for stopping rotation.

6. The control method for a washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, Determining whether the operating state of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition includes: If the inner tub is detected to have rotated for a preset duration and the current water level is not detected to have reached the overflow outlet, it is determined that the inner tub's operating state meets the conditions for stopping rotation.

7. The control method for a washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the set water level is determined to be outside the rinsing water level range, and the set water level is lower than the lower limit of the rinsing water level range, the water inlet valve is activated to allow water to enter until the current water level is detected to be within the rinsing water level range and the water inlet valve is then closed. If the set water level is higher than the upper limit of the rinsing water level range, the drain valve will be activated to drain water until the current water level is detected to be within the rinsing water level range.

8. The control method for a washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, After closing the drain valve, the method further includes: The preset rinsing time is determined based on the washing start command; If the current rinsing time is less than the preset rinsing time, the water inlet valve is activated to allow water to enter, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set level and the dehydration and rinsing process is repeated.

9. The control method for a washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, After closing the drain valve, the method further includes: The preset rinsing time is determined based on the washing start command; If the current rinsing time is less than the preset rinsing time, the water inlet valve is activated to allow water to enter, so that the water level in the inner tub reaches the set level and the impeller is used for rinsing.

10. A control device for a washing machine, characterized in that, The device includes: The instruction response module is used to respond to the washing start instruction by activating the water inlet valve to allow water to enter the inner tub so that the water level reaches the set level. The dehydration and rinsing module is used to control the drain valve to drain water and control the motor to drive the inner tub to rotate for dehydration and rinsing of clothes when the set water level is determined to be within the rinsing water level range. The rinsing water level range includes at least a first rinsing water level range and a second rinsing water level range. When there are at least two rinsing water level ranges, if the set water level is within any one of the rinsing water level ranges, the set water level is determined to be within the rinsing water level range. If the set water level is not within any of the rinsing water level ranges, the set water level is determined to be outside the rinsing water level range. The status determination module is used to determine whether the operating status of the inner tub meets the rotation stop condition; The motion control module is used to control the motor to stop rotating and close the drain valve when the rotation stop state is met.

11. A washing machine, characterized in that, The washing machine includes the control device as described in claim 10.

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