Ice amount detection assembly, ice block storage device, ice maker and ice amount detection method

Abstract

The invention relates to an ice quantity detection assembly, an ice block storage device, an ice maker and an ice quantity detection method. Comprising a three-dimensional induction unit and a controller, the three-dimensional induction unit is arranged on the inner surface of an ice storage container and connected with the controller, the three-dimensional induction unit detects ice blocks in the ice storage container based on more than three different directions to obtain three-dimensional induction data and transmits the three-dimensional induction data to the controller, and the controller determines the volume of the ice blocks based on the three-dimensional induction data and controls the ice blocks to be stored. And determining the ice amount in the ice storage container. The three-dimensional volume of the ice block in the ice storage container is established through the three-dimensional sensing data detected by the three-dimensional sensing unit, and the ice amount is calculated according to the three-dimensional volume, so that the ice amount in the ice storage container can be fed back in real time, a user does not need to open the ice storage container to actively check, and the accuracy and convenience of ice amount detection are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of ice-making appliances, and in particular to an ice quantity detection component, an ice cube storage device, an ice maker, an ice quantity detection method, an ice quantity detection device, a computer device, a computer-readable storage medium, and a computer program product. Background Art

[0002] With improved living standards, a growing number of household appliances are available to meet diverse daily needs. Among them, ice makers, which produce ice cubes, come in two types: automatic and manual. Automatic ice makers automatically push out ice cubes after making them, offering convenience and speed, but require users to promptly retrieve the ice, preventing temporary storage. Therefore, most ice makers currently on the market feature manual ice removal, which allows users to store ice cubes in an internal ice storage bin after making them. Multiple rounds of ice storage can be performed until the bin is fully filled.

[0003] In order to ensure the storage of ice cubes, the ice storage box of the current ice maker is usually set to a non-observable type. Sensors are set to check the melting and storage status of ice cubes. When the ice box is full, the ice making is stopped and the user is prompted.

[0004] However, in a relatively closed ice storage bin, sensors can only detect when the ice is full, and only then does the ice level indicator appear. In practice, after the ice maker has completed multiple rounds of ice making, the ice inside the bin becomes irregular due to partial melting. Before the bin is full, it's difficult to accurately determine the current ice level without opening the bin. Therefore, accurately monitoring the ice level in the bin in real time for user convenience is a pressing issue. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Based on this, it is necessary to provide an ice quantity detection component, ice storage device, ice maker, ice quantity detection method, device, computer equipment, computer-readable storage medium and computer program product that can detect the amount of ice in real time and improve the convenience of viewing in response to the above technical problems.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present application provides an ice quantity detection assembly, comprising a three-dimensional sensing unit and a controller, wherein the three-dimensional sensing unit is disposed on the inner surface of an ice storage container and is connected to the controller;

[0007] The three-dimensional sensing unit detects ice cubes in the ice storage container based on three or more different directions, obtains three-dimensional sensing data, and transmits the data to the controller. The controller determines the volume of the ice cubes based on the three-dimensional sensing data and determines the amount of ice in the ice storage container.

[0008] In this embodiment, the three-dimensional volume of the ice cubes in the ice storage container is established by the three-dimensional sensing data detected by the three-dimensional sensing unit, and the ice quantity is calculated based on this data. The ice quantity in the ice storage container can be fed back in real time without the user having to open the ice storage container to actively check, thereby improving the accuracy and convenience of ice quantity detection.

[0009] In one embodiment, the three-dimensional sensing unit includes a first sensing unit, a second sensing unit and a third sensing unit. The first sensing unit, the second sensing unit and the third sensing unit are respectively arranged on the inner surface of the ice storage container in different directions and are all connected to the controller.

[0010] In this embodiment, by arranging the first sensing unit, the second sensing unit and the third sensing unit on the inner surface of the ice storage container in different directions, the ice cubes in the ice storage container are detected from multiple directions and angles, which is conducive to accurately obtaining three-dimensional sensing data, thereby improving the accuracy of ice quantity detection.

[0011] In one embodiment, when the ice storage container is a rectangular cube, the first sensing unit is disposed on the top surface of the ice storage container, and the second sensing unit and the third sensing unit are respectively disposed on adjacent side surfaces of the ice storage container.

[0012] In this embodiment, for example, when the ice storage container is a rectangular cube, the positions of the first sensing unit, the second sensing unit, and the third sensing unit are respectively determined. By using the mutually perpendicular detection directions of the three, ice detection in three directions is achieved, which is beneficial for the controller to analyze the three-dimensional volume of the ice, determine the volume of the ice and then determine the amount of ice, thereby improving the accuracy of ice amount detection.

[0013] In one embodiment, the number of the second sensing units is more than two, and each of the second sensing units is disposed on the inner surface of the ice storage container at different heights in the same direction.

[0014] In this embodiment, by providing multiple second sensing units, each positioned in the same direction but at different heights, the amount of ice accumulated at different heights within the ice storage container can be accurately detected. An accurate three-dimensional volume can be established based on the detected data, ensuring accurate and reliable ice volume. Furthermore, this can be combined with a third sensing unit positioned at the same height to achieve even more accurate detection.

[0015] In one embodiment, the number of the second sensing units is more than two, and they are respectively disposed on corresponding inner surfaces of the ice storage container in the same direction.

[0016] In this embodiment, by providing a plurality of second sensing units and with the second sensing units provided in opposite directions, the thickness of ice in this direction can be accurately detected; further, they can be provided on inner surfaces of the ice storage container at the same height and opposite directions, so that the thickness of ice in this direction and at this height can be accurately detected; thereby, the accuracy of the three-dimensional sensing data is improved, and the ice quantity detection is accurate.

[0017] In one embodiment, the number of the third sensing units is more than two, and each of the third sensing units is disposed on the inner surface of the ice storage container at different heights and in the same direction.

[0018] In this embodiment, by providing multiple third sensing units, each positioned in the same direction but at different heights, the amount of ice accumulated at different heights within the ice storage container can be accurately detected. An accurate three-dimensional volume can be established based on the detected data, ensuring accurate and reliable ice volume. Furthermore, the unit can be combined with a second sensing unit positioned at the same height to achieve accurate detection.

[0019] In one embodiment, the number of the third sensing units is more than two, and they are respectively disposed on corresponding inner surfaces of the ice storage container in the same direction.

[0020] In this embodiment, by providing a plurality of third sensing units and with the third sensing units provided in opposite directions, the thickness of ice in this direction can be accurately detected; further, they can be provided on inner surfaces of the ice storage container at the same height and opposite directions, so that the thickness of ice in this direction and at this height can be accurately detected; thereby, the accuracy of the three-dimensional sensing data is improved, and the ice quantity detection is accurate.

[0021] In a second aspect, the present application further provides an ice storage device, which includes an ice storage container and an ice quantity detection component as described in the above embodiments, and the ice quantity detection component is arranged based on the ice storage container.

[0022] In this embodiment, the ice storage device can be an independent storage container for real-time monitoring of ice. Through real-time ice quantity detection by the ice quantity detection component, the ice storage device can provide real-time feedback of the ice quantity to the user, thereby improving user convenience.

[0023] In a third aspect, the present application further provides an ice maker, which includes an ice making system and an ice storage device as described above, wherein the ice making system is used to generate ice cubes, and the ice storage device is used to store the ice cubes and perform ice quantity detection.

[0024] In this embodiment, the ice maker can make ice through the ice making system and store the generated ice cubes in the ice cube storage device. The ice cube storage device can monitor and feedback the amount of ice in real time, so that the ice maker can accurately prompt the amount of ice when the user needs it, making it easier for the user to take ice, which is very convenient.

[0025] In a fourth aspect, the present application further provides an ice quantity detection method, which is implemented based on the ice quantity detection components described in the above embodiments, and the method includes:

[0026] Acquire three-dimensional sensing data of the ice storage container; the three-dimensional sensing data is obtained based on a three-dimensional sensing unit and includes sensing data in three or more different directions, the sensing data representing data obtained by detecting ice cubes inside the ice storage container;

[0027] Based on the three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container, the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container is determined, and then the amount of ice in the ice storage container is determined.

[0028] In this embodiment, by acquiring three-dimensional sensing data based on a three-dimensional sensing unit and calculating the amount of ice based on the three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container, the amount of ice in the ice storage container can be fed back in real time based on the three-dimensional sensing data without the user having to open the ice storage container to actively check, thereby improving the accuracy and convenience of ice amount detection.

[0029] In one embodiment, determining the volume of ice in the ice storage container based on the three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container, and then determining the amount of ice in the ice storage container, includes:

[0030] determining distance data between the ice cube and the ice storage container in different directions based on the three-dimensional sensing data;

[0031] Calculating and determining the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container according to the distance data and the size of the ice storage container;

[0032] The amount of ice in the ice storage container is determined according to the size of the ice storage container and the volume of the ice cubes.

[0033] In this embodiment, the distance data between the ice cubes and the ice storage container in different directions is determined based on the three-dimensional sensing data, and the volume of the ice cubes is calculated according to the distance data and the size of the ice storage container, thereby determining the amount of ice in the ice storage container. The accuracy of the ice cube volume calculation is accurately calculated through multiple distance data, thereby improving the accuracy of ice quantity detection.

[0034] In one embodiment, calculating and determining the volume of ice in the ice storage container based on the distance data and the size of the ice storage container includes:

[0035] If, in the three-dimensional sensing data, a deviation of distance data at different heights in the same direction is less than or equal to a preset deviation value, it is determined that the ice cubes in the ice storage container are of regular volume, and the volume of the ice cubes is determined based on the distance data and the size of the ice storage container;

[0036] If, in the three-dimensional sensing data, a deviation of distance data at different heights in the same direction is greater than a preset deviation value, it is determined that the ice cubes in the ice storage container have an irregular volume, and three-dimensional sub-volumes are calculated based on the heights corresponding to the respective distance data and the size of the ice storage container, and the volume of the ice cubes is further determined based on the three-dimensional sub-volumes.

[0037] In this embodiment, the distance data obtained from the three-dimensional sensing data is analyzed to classify the ice cubes into regular volumes and irregular volumes, and then different calculation methods are used to accurately calculate the volume of the ice cubes. The accuracy of the calculation of the volume of the ice cubes is improved by accurately calculating the volume of the ice cubes through multiple distance data, thereby improving the accuracy of ice quantity detection.

[0038] In a fifth aspect, the present application further provides an ice quantity detection device, the device comprising:

[0039] A data input module is configured to obtain three-dimensional sensing data of the ice storage container; the three-dimensional sensing data is obtained based on a three-dimensional sensing unit and includes sensing data in three or more different directions, the sensing data representing data obtained by detecting ice cubes inside the ice storage container;

[0040] The ice quantity calculation module is used to determine the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container based on the three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container, and further determine the amount of ice in the ice storage container.

[0041] In a sixth aspect, the present application further provides a computer device, comprising a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and when the processor executes the computer program, the following steps are implemented:

[0042] Acquire three-dimensional sensing data of the ice storage container; the three-dimensional sensing data is obtained based on a three-dimensional sensing unit and includes sensing data in three or more different directions, the sensing data representing data obtained by detecting ice cubes inside the ice storage container;

[0043] Based on the three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container, the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container is determined, and then the amount of ice in the ice storage container is determined.

[0044] In a seventh aspect, the present application further provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, wherein when the computer program is executed by a processor, the following steps are implemented:

[0045] Acquire three-dimensional sensing data of the ice storage container; the three-dimensional sensing data is obtained based on a three-dimensional sensing unit and includes sensing data in three or more different directions, the sensing data representing data obtained by detecting ice cubes inside the ice storage container;

[0046] Based on the three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container, the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container is determined, and then the amount of ice in the ice storage container is determined.

[0047] In an eighth aspect, the present application further provides a computer program product, comprising a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the following steps:

[0048] Acquire three-dimensional sensing data of the ice storage container; the three-dimensional sensing data is obtained based on a three-dimensional sensing unit and includes sensing data in three or more different directions, the sensing data representing data obtained by detecting ice cubes inside the ice storage container;

[0049] Based on the three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container, the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container is determined, and then the amount of ice in the ice storage container is determined.

[0050] The aforementioned ice quantity detection assembly, ice storage device, ice maker, ice quantity detection method, device, computer equipment, computer-readable storage medium, and computer program product include a three-dimensional sensing unit and a controller. The three-dimensional sensing unit is disposed on the inner surface of the ice storage container and connected to the controller. The three-dimensional sensing unit detects ice cubes in the ice storage container from three or more different directions, obtains three-dimensional sensing data, and transmits it to the controller. The controller determines the volume of the ice cubes and the amount of ice in the ice storage container based on the three-dimensional sensing data. The three-dimensional volume of the ice cubes in the ice storage container is established using the three-dimensional sensing data detected by the three-dimensional sensing unit, and the ice quantity is calculated based on this data. This provides real-time feedback on the amount of ice in the ice storage container without the user having to open the ice storage container to actively check, thereby improving the accuracy and convenience of ice quantity detection. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application or related technologies, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments of the present application or related technical descriptions. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0052] Figure 1 is a structural diagram of an ice quantity detection assembly in one embodiment;

[0053] Figure 2 is a structural diagram of an ice quantity detection assembly in another embodiment;

[0054] Figure 3 is a structural diagram of an ice quantity detection assembly in yet another embodiment;

[0055] Figure 4 A schematic structural diagram of an ice quantity detection assembly in yet another embodiment;

[0056] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an application of an ice quantity detection component in one embodiment;

[0057] Figure 6 is a structural diagram of an ice making machine in one embodiment;

[0058] Figure 7 1 is a flow chart of an ice amount detection method according to an embodiment;

[0059] Figure 8 FIG1 is a flow chart illustrating the steps of determining the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container and then determining the amount of ice in the ice storage container based on three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container in one embodiment;

[0060] Figure 9 Schematic diagram of an application of an infrared sensor in one embodiment;

[0061] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of an application of an ice quantity detection component in another embodiment;

[0062] Figure 11 is a structural block diagram of an ice quantity detection component in one embodiment;

[0063] Figure 12 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the internal structure of a computer device in one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of this application more clear, the following further describes this application in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain this application and are not intended to limit this application.

[0065] It will be understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., used herein may be used to describe various elements, but these elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish a first element from another element. For example, a first resistor may be referred to as a second resistor, and similarly, a second resistor may be referred to as a first resistor without departing from the scope of this application. The first resistor and the second resistor are both resistors, but they are not the same resistor.

[0066] It can be understood that the “connection” in the following embodiments should be understood as “electrical connection”, “communication connection”, etc. if there is transmission of electrical signals or data between the connected circuits, modules, units, etc.

[0067] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" may also include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the terms "include," "comprising," "having," and the like specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the term "and / or" as used in this specification includes any and all combinations of the relevant listed items.

[0068] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application pertains. The terms used herein in the specification of this application are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit this application.

[0069] At present, in order to ensure the storage of ice cubes, ice makers with manual ice removal usually set the ice storage container to be non-observable. Sensors are set to check the melting and storage status of ice cubes. When the ice box is full, ice making is stopped and the user is notified.

[0070] However, in a relatively closed ice storage box, the only way to detect when the ice is full is to rely on sensors, and the ice quantity prompt will be given when the ice is full. In fact, the applicant found that this solution has the following defects: 1. It is inconvenient for users to try to connect the ice in the closed ice storage container, and after the ice maker performs multiple rounds of ice making, the shape of the ice in the ice storage box is irregular due to the partial melting of the early ice. Before the ice is full, it is difficult to accurately know the current ice reserves without opening the ice storage box. 2. The current ice maker does not have a corresponding prompt for the intermediate state before the ice storage container is full, which affects the user's judgment of the moment to take ice midway, and is not convenient enough. 3. For the intermediate shape detection before the ice is full, the volume detection may be inflated due to the irregular accumulation of ice shapes.

[0071] Therefore, the present application provides an ice quantity detection component that can monitor the ice quantity in the ice storage container in real time. Figure 1As shown, an ice quantity detection assembly includes a three-dimensional sensing unit 100 and a controller. The three-dimensional sensing unit 100 is disposed on the inner surface of an ice storage container and is connected to the controller (not shown). The three-dimensional sensing unit 100 detects ice cubes in the ice storage container based on three or more different directions, obtains three-dimensional sensing data, and transmits it to the controller. The controller determines the volume of the ice cubes and the amount of ice in the ice storage container based on the three-dimensional sensing data.

[0072] Among them, the three-dimensional sensing unit has a detection direction, that is, it can sense the specified orientation. The corresponding direction is the ray determined by the starting point of the setting position and the detection direction. Among them, for the same direction, it means that the two rays are coplanar, and the two rays are parallel in the coplanar plane. For different directions, it should be understood that more than three different directions include three directions, and the arrangement of the three directions needs to meet the following requirements: the directions are not on the same straight line, the directions are not set in parallel, and they may not be coplanar. If they are coplanar, the planes where the multiple rays are located must have intersection lines or intersections. Exemplarily, if the three-dimensional coordinate axis is taken as an example, the three directions can be the directions of the x-axis, y-axis and z-axis respectively. Furthermore, the three directions need to cover at least the three basic dimensions of the length, width and height of the object.

[0073] Specifically, a three-dimensional sensing unit is disposed on the inner surface of the ice storage container and is capable of detecting ice cubes within the container to obtain sensing data. Furthermore, the three-dimensional sensing unit can have multiple sensing directions, detecting ice cubes within the container from different directions. Alternatively, the three-dimensional sensing unit can be disposed at different locations on the inner surface of the ice storage container to detect ice cubes within the container from different directions. The specific sensing directions include at least three different directions, and multiple sensing data are obtained based on the different sensing directions. These multiple sensing data constitute the three-dimensional sensing data of the three-dimensional sensing unit.

[0074] The controller is connected to the three-dimensional sensing unit and can obtain three-dimensional sensing data output by the three-dimensional sensing unit. The controller analyzes the three-dimensional sensing data, estimates the three-dimensional volume of the ice cubes in the ice storage container, calculates the volume of the ice cubes in the ice storage container, and then determines the amount of ice in the ice storage container.

[0075] Optionally, the three-dimensional sensing unit may be an image acquisition unit, such as a camera, or a ranging sensor, such as an infrared sensor. Furthermore, the three-dimensional sensing unit may include multiple image acquisition units or ranging sensors. When the three-dimensional sensing unit is a camera, there may be only one camera. By capturing images, a single camera can detect in three or more different directions. For example, the camera may be positioned directly above the inner surface of the ice storage container.

[0076] The three-dimensional sensing unit can acquire three-dimensional sensing data using infrared sensing. Infrared sensors are used to detect the amount of ice in ice storage containers. The relatively closed nature of the ice storage container facilitates the transmission of infrared signals. Furthermore, the use of multiple sets of infrared sensors enables precise measurement and, using a technique similar to ToF (Time of Flight, a distance measurement technology based on the time of flight of light, which measures the time it takes for infrared light or laser light to travel back and forth to an object), multi-directional distance measurement of ice, facilitating the generation of three-dimensional sensing data.

[0077] In this embodiment, the ice quantity detection assembly includes a three-dimensional sensing unit and a controller. The three-dimensional sensing unit is located on the inner surface of the ice storage container and is connected to the controller. The three-dimensional sensing unit detects ice cubes in the ice storage container from three or more different directions, generates three-dimensional sensing data, and transmits it to the controller. The controller then determines the volume of the ice cubes and the amount of ice in the ice storage container based on the three-dimensional sensing data. The three-dimensional sensing data obtained by the three-dimensional sensing unit is used to establish the three-dimensional volume of the ice cubes in the ice storage container, and the ice quantity is calculated based on this data. This provides real-time feedback on the ice quantity in the ice storage container without the user having to open the ice storage container to actively check, thereby improving the accuracy and convenience of ice quantity detection.

[0078] In one embodiment, Figure 2 As shown, the three-dimensional sensing unit includes a first sensing unit 110, a second sensing unit 130 and a third sensing unit 150. The first sensing unit 110, the second sensing unit 130 and the third sensing unit 150 are respectively arranged on the inner surface of the ice storage container in different directions and are all connected to the controller.

[0079] Specifically, to facilitate calculation of the three-dimensional volume, the three-dimensional sensing unit may include three or more sensing units, for example, a first sensing unit, a second sensing unit, and a third sensing unit. The first sensing unit, the second sensing unit, and the third sensing unit are respectively disposed on the inner surface of the ice storage container in different directions to detect ice cubes in the ice storage container in different directions.

[0080] The first sensing component detects sensing data of the ice storage container in the first direction based on the first direction, the second sensing component detects sensing data of the ice storage container in the second direction based on the second direction, and the third sensing component detects sensing data of the ice storage container in the third direction based on the third direction. The controller determines the three-dimensional volume of the ice cubes based on the sensing data in multiple different directions, thereby realizing ice amount detection of the ice storage container.

[0081] In this embodiment, by arranging the first sensing unit, the second sensing unit and the third sensing unit on the inner surface of the ice storage container in different directions, the ice cubes in the ice storage container are detected from multiple directions and angles, which is conducive to accurately obtaining three-dimensional sensing data, thereby improving the accuracy of ice quantity detection.

[0082] For example, in one embodiment, Figure 2 As shown, when the ice storage container is a rectangular cube, the first sensing unit 110 is disposed on the top surface of the ice storage container, and the second sensing unit 130 and the third sensing unit 150 are respectively disposed on adjacent side surfaces of the ice storage container.

[0083] Specifically, taking the ice storage container as a rectangular cube as an example, the top surface of the ice storage container has an adjustable opening for inserting ice cubes. The first sensing unit is disposed on the inner surface of the top surface of the ice storage container and is capable of detecting sensing data in a first direction, that is, from the top surface to the bottom surface. The second sensing unit and the third sensing unit are respectively disposed on different side surfaces. The two adjacent side surfaces of the rectangular cube are perpendicular to each other, so the second direction detected by the second sensing unit and the third direction detected by the third sensing unit are also perpendicular. The first direction detected by the first sensing unit is also perpendicular to the plane where the second and third directions intersect, taking into account detection in the length, width, and height directions of the ice storage container. The three-dimensional sensing data obtained by such detection is aggregated, which is conducive to establishing the three-dimensional volume of the ice cubes and, therefore, determining the amount of ice in the ice storage container.

[0084] In this embodiment, for example, when the ice storage container is a rectangular cube, the positions of the first sensing unit, the second sensing unit, and the third sensing unit are respectively determined. By using the mutually perpendicular detection directions of the three, ice detection in three directions is achieved, which is beneficial for the controller to analyze the three-dimensional volume of the ice, determine the volume of the ice and then determine the amount of ice, thereby improving the accuracy of ice amount detection.

[0085] To accurately detect ice cubes, multiple sensing units can be positioned in different directions to accurately detect the volume of ice cubes. The height of ice cubes can be detected by a first sensing unit positioned in a first direction (e.g., perpendicular to the horizontal plane), which can be multiple or a single sensing unit. Second and third sensing units, positioned on the sides to detect the thickness or width of ice cubes, can be configured in a variety of ways to achieve more accurate ice cube volume detection.

[0086] In one embodiment, Figure 3 As shown, the number of the second sensing units 130 is more than two, and each second sensing unit 130 is disposed on the inner surface of the ice storage container at different heights in the same direction.

[0087] Specifically, the second sensing units can be arranged at different heights in the same direction of the ice storage container, that is, the detection directions of the second sensing units are consistent, but the detection heights are inconsistent. Figure 3 In the example, the two second sensing units are located on the same side of the ice storage container, and both detect in the same direction. However, the two second sensing units are located at different heights. Converted into three-dimensional coordinates, the x-axis and y-axis coordinates of the two second sensing units are the same, but the z-axis coordinates are different.

[0088] In this way, the second sensing unit can detect sensing data at different heights in the same direction, and can sense the accumulation of ice cubes at different heights in this direction, which is conducive to the controller to accurately calculate the three-dimensional volume of the ice cubes.

[0089] Optionally, the height at which the second sensing unit is set in the ice storage container can be less than the height of a single ice cube, so as to avoid missing the detection of ice cubes; the height at which the second sensing unit is set in the ice storage container needs to be higher than the set water accumulation height, for example 5 mm, so as to avoid misjudgment of accumulated water or ice chips caused by melted ice cubes.

[0090] Furthermore, the second sensing unit can also be set at different positions in the same direction and at the same height. For example, on the basis of keeping the z-axis coordinate unchanged and the detection direction unchanged, the second sensing unit is set along the side of the ice storage container to achieve accurate detection of ice cubes in this direction at this height.

[0091] In this embodiment, by providing multiple second sensing units, each positioned in the same direction but at different heights, the amount of ice accumulated at different heights within the ice storage container can be accurately detected. An accurate three-dimensional volume can be established based on the detected data, ensuring accurate and reliable ice volume. Furthermore, this can be combined with a third sensing unit positioned at the same height to achieve even more accurate detection.

[0092] In one embodiment, Figure 4 As shown, the number of the second sensing units 130 is more than two, and they are respectively disposed on corresponding inner surfaces of the ice storage container in the same direction.

[0093] Furthermore, the second sensing unit can be installed on more than just one side of the ice storage container. Since the second and third sensing units are installed on adjacent sides, for a rectangular cube, the second sensing unit can be installed on two sides adjacent to the third sensing unit. The two second sensing units have overlapping and opposite detection directions, and can detect the thickness of the ice in that direction. In this case, the two opposite sides of the rectangular cube are set up as corresponding inner surfaces in the same direction.

[0094] Optionally, when the ice storage container is a polygon with multiple sides, taking the detection direction of the second sensing unit as an example, the two parallel sides passing through the detection direction are the corresponding sides of the ice storage container in the same direction. Setting the second sensing unit on these two corresponding sides means setting it on the corresponding inner surfaces of the ice storage container in the same direction.

[0095] Further illustratively, the number of second sensing units can be three, the first second sensing unit is set at a designated position, the second second sensing unit is based on the first second sensing unit and is set on the inner surface of the ice storage container at different heights in the same direction, and the third second sensing unit is based on the first second sensing unit and is set on the corresponding inner surface of the ice storage container in the same direction.

[0096] In this embodiment, by providing a plurality of second sensing units and with the second sensing units provided in opposite directions, the thickness of ice in this direction can be accurately detected; further, they can be provided on inner surfaces of the ice storage container at the same height and opposite directions, so that the thickness of ice in this direction and at this height can be accurately detected; thereby, the accuracy of the three-dimensional sensing data is improved, and the ice quantity detection is accurate.

[0097] In one embodiment, the number of the third sensing units is more than two, and each third sensing unit is disposed on the inner surface of the ice storage container at different heights and in the same direction.

[0098] Specifically, the third sensing units can be positioned at different heights along the same direction relative to the ice storage container. This means that each third sensing unit maintains the same detection direction but different detection heights. Similar to the aforementioned second sensing unit, two third sensing units are positioned on the same side of the ice storage container, with the same detection direction. However, the two third sensing units are positioned at different heights. Converted into three-dimensional coordinates, the x- and y-axis coordinates of the two third sensing units are identical, but the z-axis coordinates are different.

[0099] In this way, the third sensing unit can detect sensing data at different heights in the same direction, and can sense the accumulation of ice cubes at different heights in this direction, which is conducive to the controller to accurately calculate the three-dimensional volume of the ice cubes.

[0100] Optionally, the height at which the third sensing unit is set in the ice storage container can be less than the height of a single ice cube, so as to avoid missing the detection of ice cubes; the height at which the third sensing unit is set in the ice storage container needs to be higher than the set water accumulation height, for example 5 mm, so as to avoid misjudgment of accumulated water or ice chips caused by melted ice cubes.

[0101] Furthermore, the third sensing unit can also be set at different positions in the same direction and at the same height. For example, on the basis of keeping the z-axis coordinate unchanged and the detection direction unchanged, the third sensing unit is set along the side of the ice storage container to achieve accurate detection of ice cubes in this direction at this height.

[0102] In this embodiment, by providing multiple third sensing units, each positioned in the same direction but at different heights, the amount of ice accumulated at different heights within the ice storage container can be accurately detected. An accurate three-dimensional volume can be established based on the detected data, ensuring accurate and reliable ice volume. Furthermore, the unit can be combined with a second sensing unit positioned at the same height to achieve accurate detection.

[0103] In one embodiment, the number of the third sensing units is more than two, and they are respectively disposed on corresponding inner surfaces of the ice storage container in the same direction.

[0104] Furthermore, the third sensing unit can be installed on more than just one side of the ice storage container. Since the second and third sensing units are installed on adjacent sides, for a rectangular cube, the third sensing unit can be installed on two sides adjacent to the second sensing unit. The two third sensing units have overlapping and opposite detection directions, allowing them to detect the thickness of the ice in that direction. In this case, the two opposing sides of the rectangular cube serve as corresponding inner surfaces in the same direction.

[0105] Optionally, when the ice storage container is a polygon with multiple sides, taking the detection direction of the third sensing unit as an example, the two parallel sides passing through the detection direction are the corresponding sides of the ice storage container in the same direction. Setting the third sensing unit on these two corresponding sides means setting it on the corresponding inner surfaces of the ice storage container in the same direction.

[0106] Further illustratively, the number of third sensing units can be three, the first third sensing unit is set at a designated position, the second third sensing unit is based on the first third sensing unit and is set on the inner surface of the ice storage container at different heights in the same direction, and the third third sensing unit is based on the first third sensing unit and is set on the corresponding inner surface of the ice storage container in the same direction.

[0107] In this embodiment, by providing a plurality of third sensing units and with the third sensing units provided in opposite directions, the thickness of ice in this direction can be accurately detected; further, they can be provided on inner surfaces of the ice storage container at the same height and opposite directions, so that the thickness of ice in this direction and at this height can be accurately detected; thereby, the accuracy of the three-dimensional sensing data is improved, and the ice quantity detection is accurate.

[0108] It should be noted that the above embodiments can be combined without conflicting with each other. For example, in one embodiment, Figure 5 As shown, the ice storage container is a rectangular cube. The first, second, and third sensing units are all infrared sensors. The first sensing unit includes infrared sensor C, the second sensing unit includes infrared sensor A and infrared sensor A', and the third sensing unit includes infrared sensor B and infrared sensor B'. Infrared sensors A and A' are located at different heights on the same side, infrared sensors B and B' are located at different heights on the same side, infrared sensors A and B are located at the same height on different sides, and infrared sensors A' and B' are located at the same height on different sides. Infrared sensor C is located on the top surface. A controller is connected to each infrared sensor and can calculate the volume of ice cubes dropped in based on the infrared sensors to detect the amount of ice.

[0109] Based on the same technical concept, the present application also provides an ice storage device, such as Figure 5 As shown, the ice storage device includes an ice storage container and an ice quantity detection component as described in the above embodiments. The ice quantity detection component is arranged based on the ice storage container and can detect the amount of ice stored in the ice storage device.

[0110] Furthermore, the ice storage device may further include an interactive device, which is disposed in the ice storage container and connected to the controller of the ice quantity detection assembly. The interactive device may be one or more of a digital display, a liquid crystal display, a touch screen, an audio-visual interactive device, and the like. Specifically, the obtained ice quantity may be displayed on the interactive device as a percentage, or the ice quantity may be displayed through an icon, an animation, flashing lights, light color changes, buzzer frequency changes, and the like.

[0111] In this embodiment, the ice storage device can be an independent storage container for real-time monitoring of ice. Through real-time ice quantity detection by the ice quantity detection component, the ice storage device can provide real-time feedback of the ice quantity to the user, thereby improving user convenience.

[0112] In one embodiment, the present application also provides an ice maker, which includes an ice making system and an ice storage device as described in the above embodiments. The ice making system is used to generate ice cubes, and the ice storage device is used to store ice cubes and perform ice quantity detection.

[0113] like Figure 6As shown, the ice-making system includes a water pump, a water distribution pipe, an evaporator, a compressor, a condenser, a filter dryer, a capillary tube, a solenoid valve, and a water tank. Ambient temperature water is pumped into the water tank below the ice storage box by the first water pump. After being converted into chilled water, it is pumped into the water distribution pipe by the second water pump. The chilled water output from the water distribution pipe exchanges heat with the evaporator to produce ice, which is then stored in the ice storage box. The ice storage box serves as the ice storage device and is equipped with multiple sensors to monitor the ice quantity. The evaporator, compressor, condenser, filter dryer, capillary tube, and solenoid valve form a refrigeration system that cools the water in the water distribution pipe to produce ice. The ice-making machine may also include an interaction device, as described above.

[0114] In this embodiment, the ice maker can make ice through the ice making system and store the generated ice cubes in the ice cube storage device. The ice cube storage device can monitor and feedback the amount of ice in real time, so that the ice maker can accurately prompt the amount of ice when the user needs it, making it easier for the user to take ice, which is very convenient.

[0115] Based on the same technical concept, the ice quantity detection method provided in the embodiment of the present application can be implemented based on the ice quantity detection components described in the above embodiments. In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 7 As shown, a method for detecting ice quantity is provided, which is described by taking the method applied to the controller of the ice quantity detection component as an example, and includes the following steps 202 to 204. Among them:

[0116] Step 202: Acquire three-dimensional sensing data of the ice storage container.

[0117] The three-dimensional sensing data is generated by a three-dimensional sensing unit and includes sensing data from three or more different directions. This sensing data represents the data obtained by detecting ice cubes inside the ice storage container. The three-dimensional sensing unit is installed on the inner surface of the ice storage container and is capable of detecting ice cubes inside the ice storage container. Based on different detection directions, sensing data from three or more different directions is obtained. These multiple sensing data constitute the three-dimensional sensing data of the three-dimensional sensing unit.

[0118] Specifically, the controller is connected to the 3D sensing unit and is capable of acquiring 3D sensing data output by the 3D sensing unit. The 3D sensing unit may continuously collect sensing data and output it to the controller, and the controller may then select to acquire the 3D sensing data. Alternatively, the controller may activate the 3D sensing unit and acquire the 3D sensing data when activated.

[0119] Step 204 : Based on the three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container, the volume of the ice cubes in the ice storage container is determined, and then the amount of ice in the ice storage container is determined.

[0120] The controller stores the dimensions of the ice storage container, such as volume data of length, width and height, for example, volume X (length) mm×Y (width) mm×Z (height) mm=N (unit L).

[0121] Specifically, after the controller obtains the three-dimensional sensing data output by the three-dimensional sensing unit, the controller analyzes the three-dimensional sensing data, takes the size of the ice storage container as the highest threshold of the detection distance corresponding to the three-dimensional sensing data, calculates the position of the ice cubes corresponding to each three-dimensional sensing data, and comprehensively determines the position of the ice cubes in the ice storage container based on the position of the ice cubes in each sensing data, and then determines the amount of ice in the ice storage container based on the total volume of the ice storage container.

[0122] Furthermore, if the ice quantity detection component is configured in an ice maker and the controller is the controller of the ice maker, the controller can activate the three-dimensional sensing unit to detect the ice quantity after the ice making process T (min) has elapsed, that is, after ice making is completed and the ice cubes have entered the ice storage device. For example, if the three-dimensional sensing unit is an infrared sensor, the controller can control the infrared sensor's infrared emitting diode to transmit an infrared signal toward the ice cubes, and then record the infrared signal reflected back from the ice cubes, based on the time t (ms) it takes for the reflection to return, as the sensing data.

[0123] In this embodiment, by acquiring three-dimensional sensing data based on a three-dimensional sensing unit and calculating the amount of ice based on the three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container, the amount of ice in the ice storage container can be fed back in real time based on the three-dimensional sensing data without the user having to open the ice storage container to actively check, thereby improving the accuracy and convenience of ice amount detection.

[0124] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 8 As shown, step 204 includes steps 302 to 306 .

[0125] Step 302: Determine distance data between the ice cubes and the ice storage container in different directions based on the three-dimensional sensing data.

[0126] Specifically, the three-dimensional sensing data is obtained by infrared sensor detection. The detection principle of infrared sensor is as follows: Figure 9 As shown, the infrared emitting tube transmits an infrared signal toward the ice cube. After t (ms), the infrared signal reflected from the ice surface is received, and t is used as the sensing data. This three-dimensional sensing data can then be converted into the distance between the infrared sensor and the ice cube using trigonometric relationships: L = cosθ × t × speed of light. Here, θ is the angle between the emitted and reflected light. The change in resistance of the photoresistor in the receiving circuit, detected by the controller, first derives a linear relationship between resistance and light intensity. This relationship, combined with the relationship between light intensity and the angle of incidence, allows the angle of light to be further calculated based on the resistance value. t is the time from the time the light is emitted to the time the reflected light is received.

[0127] By separately calculating multiple sensing data points in the three-dimensional sensing data, multiple distance data points can be obtained. Each distance data point is obtained from sensing data detected by different sensing units. Each sensing unit can be the inner surface of the ice storage container located in different directions. Therefore, the distance data can represent the distance between the ice cube and the ice storage container in different directions. For example, the distance between the top surface and the top of the ice cube, or the distance between the side surface and one side of the ice cube.

[0128] Furthermore, when there are sensing units set at different heights in the same direction, distance data at different heights in the same direction can also be obtained, or the distance data obtained from the sensing data at different heights in the same direction can be marked and grouped according to direction for subsequent use in calculating the volume of ice cubes.

[0129] Step 304 : Calculate and determine the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container based on the distance data and the size of the ice storage container.

[0130] Specifically, after obtaining multiple distance data, the controller determines the volume occupied by the ice cubes within the ice storage container based on the dimensions of the ice storage container, thereby calculating the ice volume. For example, if the presence detection direction is a first direction, such as from top to bottom, and a distance data point is detected as 20 cm, and the ice storage container has a volume height Z of 20 cm, it can be assumed that no ice cubes exist at that location in that direction. Combined with other distance data points corresponding to the dimensions of the ice storage container, the ice volume at that location can be assumed to be zero.

[0131] In 3D sensing data, when detecting the height of ice cubes, based on the logic of ice melting and falling, the highest point of an ice accumulation is usually at the center. Therefore, the ice height detection sensor unit can be placed at the center of the top surface of the ice storage container. To determine the volume of the ice cube's side, the sensing data of the detection direction of the side can be further analyzed.

[0132] In order to more accurately calculate and determine the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container, in an exemplary embodiment, step 304 includes steps 402 to 404 .

[0133] In step 402 , if the deviation of the distance data at different heights in the same direction in the three-dimensional sensing data is less than or equal to a preset deviation value, the ice cubes in the ice storage container are determined to be of regular volume, and the volume of the ice cubes is determined based on the distance data and the size of the ice storage container.

[0134] The preset deviation value is used to determine the edge of an ice cube and represents the allowable error range for the side of a cube. In this embodiment, if the difference between distance data at different heights in the same direction is less than or equal to the preset deviation value, it can be assumed that the two distance data detect the side of the same ice cube, indicating that the ice cube is either unmelted or has accumulated in a regular, flat surface in that direction.

[0135] Specifically, when the deviation between distance data at different heights in the same direction is less than or equal to a preset deviation value, the ice cubes in the ice storage container are determined to be of a regular volume. In other words, when the deviation between the distance data detected by sensing units located on the same side is less than or equal to a preset deviation value, the ice cubes in the ice storage container can be determined to be a regular pile of ice, with a regular volume that can be approximated as a cube with a length, width, and height. The controller can then determine the volume of the ice cubes based on the distance data and the dimensions of the ice storage container, using the distance data from different sides as the length, width, and height, respectively, and combining this with the dimensions of the ice storage container to calculate the volume of the ice cubes.

[0136] For example, Figure 5 The sensor locations and number shown are as follows: The distance data corresponding to infrared sensors A and A' are averaged to obtain LA, the distance data corresponding to infrared sensors B and B' are averaged to obtain LB, and the distance data corresponding to infrared sensor C is LC. The dimensions of the ice storage container include volume (X (length) mm × Y (width) mm × Z (height) mm = N (unit: L). The volume of the ice cubes is calculated as:

[0137] V=(X-2LA)×(Y-2LB)×(Z-LC) (1)

[0138] Through the above formula, the volume of ice cubes of regular volume can be calculated, realizing accurate detection of ice quantity.

[0139] In step 404, if the deviation of the distance data at different heights in the same direction in the three-dimensional sensing data is greater than a preset deviation value, the ice cubes in the ice storage container are determined to be irregular in volume. Based on the heights corresponding to the distance data and the size of the ice storage container, three-dimensional sub-volumes are calculated, and the volume of the ice cubes is further determined based on the three-dimensional sub-volumes.

[0140] Specifically, if the deviation between the distance data at different heights in the same direction is greater than a preset deviation value, meaning that the ice cubes on that side are not flat and have significant undulations, then the ice cubes in the ice storage container are determined to have an irregular volume. In other words, if the deviation between the distance data detected by the sensing units on the same side is greater than a preset deviation value, then it can be determined that the ice cubes in the ice storage container have a significant volume variation at different heights, indicating an irregular ice pile and an irregular volume.

[0141] It should be noted that when distance data equals the corresponding size of the ice storage container, that is, when there is no ice at the height corresponding to this distance data, this distance data is considered blank data and is not included in subsequent calculations and analysis. Unless otherwise specified, the distance data involved in the various embodiments of this application can also be removed in this manner, and this explanation will not be repeated.

[0142] The controller needs to split the ice cube volume into multiple sub-volumes based on the height corresponding to each distance data. Specifically, the controller needs to combine the distance data, the height corresponding to the distance data, and the size of the ice storage container to calculate the three-dimensional sub-volume. After calculating each three-dimensional sub-volume separately, the sum of each three-dimensional sub-volume is used as the determined ice cube volume.

[0143] Furthermore, the volume of the ice cube is divided into multiple 3D sub-volumes based on the height difference between the distance data at different heights in the same direction. Since the height of the ice cube is higher than the highest sensing unit on the side, the number of 3D sub-volumes is the side distance data plus 1. The specific height is determined by the top distance data, that is, the height data. Calculations can then be performed on each 3D sub-volume separately, and the resulting sum is used as the volume of the ice cube.

[0144] For example, Figure 10 As shown, there are two infrared sensors on one side, namely infrared sensor A and infrared sensor A', and the infrared sensor on the top surface is infrared sensor C. The volume of the ice cube is higher than the setting position of infrared sensor A and infrared sensor A'. On another adjacent side, there is also an infrared sensor B at the same height as infrared sensor A, and an infrared sensor B' at the same height as infrared sensor A', which are not shown in the figure. The volume of the ice cube can be divided into three three-dimensional sub-volumes V1, V2 and V3, and each volume can be calculated separately, similar to the calculation process of the above formula (1), but LC is replaced by the setting height of each infrared sensor. For infrared sensor A', when calculating V2, LC needs to be replaced by the difference between the height of infrared sensor A' and the height of infrared sensor A.

[0145] There are two situations here: ① Figure 10 As shown, signals are detected by sensors A, A', B, B', and C, indicating that the ice pile is at or above points A' and B'. The three-dimensional outline is approximated by the line connecting the points of incidence on the ice surface for all sensors. The ice pile can now be divided into three parts. The volume of each part is calculated, and the total sum V is then calculated. ② If only signals are detected by sensors A, B, and C, or the distance detected by sensors A' and B' is equal to the length and width of the ice box, the ice pile has completed at least one deglazing operation but has not yet reached points A' and B'. The three-dimensional outline is approximated by the line connecting the points of incidence on the ice surface for sensors A, B, and C. The ice pile can now be divided into two parts. The volume of each part is calculated, and the total sum V is then calculated.

[0146] In this embodiment, the distance data obtained from the three-dimensional sensing data is analyzed to classify the ice cubes into regular volumes and irregular volumes, and then different calculation methods are used to accurately calculate the volume of the ice cubes. The accuracy of the calculation of the volume of the ice cubes is improved by accurately calculating the volume of the ice cubes through multiple distance data, thereby improving the accuracy of ice quantity detection.

[0147] Step 306 : Determine the amount of ice in the ice storage container based on the size of the ice storage container and the volume of the ice cubes.

[0148] Specifically, after obtaining the volume of ice cubes, in order to facilitate users to know the amount of ice and improve the readability of the ice amount, based on the determined volume of ice cubes and the size of the ice storage container, the percentage of the volume of ice cubes to the volume of the ice storage container is determined, that is, the volume of ice cubes is divided by the volume of the ice storage container, and the percentage value obtained is used as the ice amount, which improves readability and convenience for users to view.

[0149] Furthermore, after executing step 306, the method may further include: sending ice quantity prompt information to the interactive device for display.

[0150] Among them, the interactive device can be one or more devices such as a digital display, a liquid crystal display, a touch screen, an audio-visual interactive device, etc. Specifically, the controller can generate ice quantity prompt information based on the obtained ice quantity and display it in the form of a percentage on the interactive device. It can also complete the percentage display of the ice quantity through icon display, animation display, light flashing, light color change, buzzer frequency change, etc.

[0151] Optionally, the ice quantity reminder information can also be triggered by exceeding a specified percentage. That is, if the ice quantity exceeds the set inventory, the ice quantity reminder information is sent to the interactive device for display. In other words, when the ice storage is almost full, or is enough for the user to use ice at one time, the corresponding ice quantity reminder information is generated to prompt the user to take ice.

[0152] In this embodiment, the distance data between the ice cubes and the ice storage container in different directions is determined based on the three-dimensional sensing data, and the volume of the ice cubes is calculated according to the distance data and the size of the ice storage container, thereby determining the amount of ice in the ice storage container. The accuracy of the ice cube volume calculation is accurately calculated through multiple distance data, thereby improving the accuracy of ice quantity detection.

[0153] In order to better understand the above solution, a detailed explanation is given below in conjunction with a specific embodiment.

[0154] In one embodiment, a multifunctional ice box for a water purifier is provided, including an ice storage device, the ice storage device including an ice quantity detection component, which is arranged as follows Figure 5As shown, the ice storage container is a rectangular cube. The first, second, and third sensing units are all infrared sensors. The first sensing unit includes infrared sensor C, the second sensing unit includes infrared sensor A and infrared sensor A', and the third sensing unit includes infrared sensor B and infrared sensor B'. Infrared sensors A and A' are located at different heights on the same side, infrared sensors B and infrared sensor B' are located at different heights on the same side, infrared sensors A and B are located at the same height on different sides, and infrared sensors A' and infrared sensor B' are located at the same height on different sides. Infrared sensor C is located on the top surface. A controller connects to each infrared sensor and uses multiple groups of infrared sensors to measure the distance from each point on the ice surface to the sensors. This creates a three-dimensional profile of the ice accumulated in the bin before it is full, thereby determining the volume of the existing ice pile and alerting the user whether it is ready for removal.

[0155] Step 1: Reference data selection and sensor assembly.

[0156] 1. According to the actual product structure design, the volume of the ice storage box is X (length) mm × Y (width) mm × Z (height) mm = N (unit L), and the thickness of the ice making mold is Z1 mm.

[0157] 2. If Figure 5 As shown, multiple sets of infrared sensors (transmitter and receiver located on the same side) are installed in the ice box of a multifunctional water purifier. These are designated A (side), A' (side, grouped with A), B (side), B' (side, grouped with B), and C (top of the ice box). C is optimally located directly above the center of the ice box. The two sets of side sensors should be located on any two adjacent vertical side walls of the ice box, with a distance from the bottom of the box less than 1 mm and greater than 0 mm. Where practical, more sensors improve accuracy, and having sensors on all four sides offers even greater accuracy.

[0158] The purpose of this step is to select a reliable sensor installation position. When a single batch of ice is completed and falls into the box, the ice can be taken out. The thickness of a single batch of ice should be ≥ the thickness of the ice mold Z1. Therefore, the position of the side sensor is selected to be less than Z1mm from the bottom, but not directly close to the bottom (taking into account the misjudgment of melted ice water and ice chips, it can be adjusted according to actual conditions).

[0159] Step 2: Start the ice making program, all sensors are kept on, and the program sets the ice making time to T (min). After T (min), the first ice making is completed. Under the action of the ice removal expansion valve, the ice cubes fall freely to the bottom of the ice box.

[0160] Step 3: The infrared emitting tubes of sensors A, A', B, B', and C transmit infrared signals to the ice. After t (ms), the infrared receiving tubes of sensors A, A', B, B', and C receive the infrared signals reflected back from the corresponding ice surfaces. The principle is shown in Figure 9 .

[0161] 1. Use trigonometric relationships to calculate the distance from the sensor to the surface of the ice: L = cosθ × t × speed of light.

[0162] 2. Calculate the three-dimensional volume of the ice cube:

[0163] (1) A regular ice pile can be roughly regarded as a cuboid. When the distances measured by the side sensors are approximately equal, it is a regular ice pile. The length, width and height are equal to the length, width and height of the ice box minus the gap between the edge and the box wall. The formula for calculating the volume is shown in formula (1).

[0164] (2) The edge contour of the irregular ice pile is approximately the line connecting the incident points of the infrared rays emitted by each sensor on the ice surface. There are two cases here: ① Figure 10 As shown, A, A', B, B', and C all detect signals, proving that the height of the ice pile is higher than or equal to points A' and B'. At this time, the three-dimensional outline is approximately the line connecting the points of incidence of all sensors on the ice surface. At this time, the ice pile can be divided into three parts, and the volume of each part is calculated before the total V is calculated. ② Only A, B, and C detect signals or the distance detected by A' and B' is equal to the length and width of the ice box, proving that the ice pile has completed at least one de-icing but the height has not reached points A' and B'. At this time, the three-dimensional outline is approximately the line connecting the points of incidence of sensors A, B, and C on the ice surface. At this time, the ice pile can be divided into two parts, and the volume of each part is calculated before the total V is calculated. This optimizes the problem of large volume calculation due to irregular ice accumulation. The specific calculation is as mentioned above and will not be repeated here.

[0165] 3. Calculate the percentage of ice volume to ice box volume: Divide the volume of ice by the volume of ice container to get the percentage.

[0166] Step 4: The percentage is displayed on a liquid crystal or digital display panel, and the user is prompted to check the percentage of ice available for use through an icon light (flashing, color change, etc.) or a buzzer. The user decides whether to take the ice.

[0167] Step 5: Repeat the above steps until the ice is full.

[0168] In this embodiment, multiple groups of infrared sensors are installed in the ice storage box of the multi-functional water purifier. Drawing on ToF technology, multi-directional ranging of ice cubes in the ice box is performed, and three-dimensional data of the ice pile is obtained to calculate the volume. At the same time, two-point ranging and triangulation calculation methods are combined to optimize the problems of false height, false alarm, large volume caused by irregular accumulation of ice cubes, and received data error caused by deviation in the angle of light reflection on the inclined ice surface, so as to obtain the real-time status of the ice quantity during the ice-making process, and prompt the user when to take ice and how much ice has been made by displaying different states of the interface icon (flashing, color change, digital percentage, LCD animation, etc.) or beeping, thereby improving the accuracy of ice quantity detection and the convenience of user viewing.

[0169] It should be understood that, although the various steps in the flowcharts involved in the various embodiments described above are displayed in sequence according to the instructions of the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in sequence in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless otherwise specified herein, there is no strict order restriction on the execution of these steps, and these steps can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least a portion of the steps in the flowcharts involved in the various embodiments described above can include multiple steps or multiple stages, and these steps or stages are not necessarily executed and completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times, and the execution order of these steps or stages is not necessarily to be carried out in sequence, but can be executed in turn or alternately with other steps or at least a portion of steps or stages in other steps.

[0170] Based on the same inventive concept, embodiments of the present application also provide an ice quantity detection device for implementing the aforementioned ice quantity detection method. The solution provided by this device is similar to the solution described in the aforementioned method. Therefore, the specific limitations of one or more of the following embodiments of the ice quantity detection device can be found in the above-described limitations of the ice quantity detection method and will not be further elaborated here.

[0171] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 11 As shown, an ice quantity detection device is provided, including: a data input module 702 and an ice quantity calculation module 704, wherein:

[0172] The data input module 702 is used to obtain three-dimensional sensing data of the ice storage container. The three-dimensional sensing data is obtained based on the three-dimensional sensing unit and includes sensing data in three or more different directions. The sensing data represents data obtained by detecting ice cubes inside the ice storage container.

[0173] The ice quantity calculation module 704 is configured to determine the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container based on the three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container, and further determine the amount of ice in the ice storage container.

[0174] In one embodiment, the ice quantity calculation module 704 is further configured to determine distance data between the ice cubes and the ice storage container in different directions based on the three-dimensional sensing data; calculate and determine the volume of the ice cubes in the ice storage container based on the distance data and the size of the ice storage container; and determine the amount of ice in the ice storage container based on the size of the ice storage container and the volume of the ice cubes.

[0175] In one embodiment, the ice quantity calculation module 704 is further configured to determine that the ice cubes in the ice storage container are of regular volume if the deviation of the distance data at different heights in the same direction in the three-dimensional sensing data is less than or equal to a preset deviation value, and to determine the volume of the ice cubes based on the distance data and the size of the ice storage container; and to determine that the ice cubes in the ice storage container are of irregular volume if the deviation of the distance data at different heights in the same direction in the three-dimensional sensing data is greater than the preset deviation value, and to calculate three-dimensional sub-volumes based on the heights corresponding to the respective distance data and the size of the ice storage container, and then to determine the volume of the ice cubes based on the three-dimensional sub-volumes.

[0176] Each module in the aforementioned ice quantity detection device can be implemented in whole or in part through software, hardware, or a combination thereof. Each module can be embedded in or independent of a processor in a computer device in the form of hardware, or can be stored in a computer device memory in the form of software, so that the processor can call and execute the corresponding operations of each module.

[0177] In an exemplary embodiment, a computer device is provided. The computer device may be a terminal, and its internal structure diagram may be as shown in FIG. Figure 12As shown. The computer device includes a processor, a memory, an input / output interface, a communication interface, a display unit and an input device. The processor, the memory and the input / output interface are connected via a system bus, and the communication interface, the display unit and the input device are connected to the system bus via the input / output interface. The processor of the computer device is used to provide computing and control capabilities. The memory of the computer device includes a non-volatile storage medium and an internal memory. The non-volatile storage medium stores an operating system and a computer program. The internal memory provides an environment for the operation of the operating system and the computer program in the non-volatile storage medium. The input / output interface of the computer device is used to exchange information between the processor and an external device. The communication interface of the computer device is used to communicate with an external terminal in a wired or wireless manner, and the wireless manner can be achieved through WIFI, a mobile cellular network, near field communication (NFC) or other technologies. When the computer program is executed by the processor, a method for detecting ice content is implemented. The display unit of the computer device is used to form a visually visible picture, which can be a display screen, a projection device or a virtual reality imaging device. The display screen can be a liquid crystal display screen or an electronic ink display screen, and the input device of the computer device can be a touch layer covering the display screen, or a button, trackball or touchpad set on the computer device casing, or an external keyboard, touchpad or mouse.

[0178] Those skilled in the art will understand that Figure 12 The structure shown in the figure is only a block diagram of a part of the structure related to the solution of the present application, and does not constitute a limitation on the computer device to which the solution of the present application is applied. The specific computer device may include more or fewer components than shown in the figure, or combine certain components, or have a different component arrangement.

[0179] In one embodiment, a computer device is further provided, including a memory and a processor. The memory stores a computer program, and the processor implements the steps in the above method embodiments when executing the computer program.

[0180] In one embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which a computer program is stored. When the computer program is executed by a processor, the steps in the above-mentioned method embodiments are implemented.

[0181] In one embodiment, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program, which implements the steps in the above method embodiments when executed by a processor.

[0182] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that all or part of the processes in the above-mentioned embodiment methods can be implemented by instructing the relevant hardware through a computer program, and the computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium. When the computer program is executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above-mentioned methods. Among them, any reference to memory, database or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application may include at least one of non-volatile memory and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory may include read-only memory (ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, optical memory, high-density embedded non-volatile memory, resistive random access memory (ReRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), phase change memory (PCM), graphene memory, etc. Volatile memory may include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory, etc. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM can be in various forms, such as static random access memory (SRAM) or dynamic random access memory (DRAM). The database involved in the various embodiments provided herein may include at least one of a relational database and a non-relational database. Non-relational databases may include, but are not limited to, distributed databases based on blockchains. The processor involved in the various embodiments provided herein may be, but are not limited to, a general-purpose processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a programmable logic unit (PLC), a data processing logic unit based on quantum computing, an artificial intelligence (AI) processor, and the like.

[0183] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. In order to make the description concise, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this application.

[0184] The above-described embodiments merely represent several implementation methods of the present application. While the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present application. It should be noted that a person of ordinary skill in the art may make various modifications and improvements without departing from the spirit of the present application, and these modifications and improvements fall within the scope of protection of the present application. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present application shall be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An ice quantity detection component, characterized in that: It includes a three-dimensional sensing unit and a controller, wherein the three-dimensional sensing unit is arranged on the inner surface of the ice storage container and is connected to the controller; The three-dimensional sensing unit detects ice cubes in the ice storage container based on three or more different directions, obtains three-dimensional sensing data, and transmits the three-dimensional sensing data to the controller. The controller determines the volume of the ice cubes based on the three-dimensional sensing data and determines the amount of ice in the ice storage container.

2. The ice quantity detection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The three-dimensional sensing unit includes a first sensing unit, a second sensing unit and a third sensing unit. The first sensing unit, the second sensing unit and the third sensing unit are respectively arranged on the inner surface of the ice storage container in different directions and are all connected to the controller.

3. The ice quantity detection assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: When the ice storage container is a rectangular cube, the first sensing unit is arranged on the top surface of the ice storage container, and the second sensing unit and the third sensing unit are respectively arranged on adjacent side surfaces of the ice storage container.

4. The ice quantity detection assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: The number of the second sensing units is more than two, and each of the second sensing units is disposed on the inner surface of the ice storage container at different heights in the same direction.

5. The ice quantity detection assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: The number of the second sensing units is more than two, and they are respectively arranged on corresponding inner surfaces of the ice storage container in the same direction.

6. The ice quantity detection assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: The number of the third sensing units is more than two, and each of the third sensing units is disposed on the inner surface of the ice storage container at different heights and in the same direction.

7. The ice quantity detection assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: The number of the third sensing units is more than two, and they are respectively arranged on the corresponding inner surfaces of the ice storage container in the same direction.

8. An ice storage device, characterized in that: The ice storage device includes an ice storage container and an ice quantity detection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and the ice quantity detection assembly is arranged based on the ice storage container.

9. An ice making machine, characterized in that: The ice maker includes an ice making system and the ice storage device according to claim 8, wherein the ice making system is used to generate ice cubes, and the ice storage device is used to store the ice cubes and perform ice quantity detection.

10. A method for detecting ice quantity, characterized in that: Based on the ice amount detection component according to any one of claims 1 to 7, the method includes: Acquire three-dimensional sensing data of the ice storage container; the three-dimensional sensing data is obtained based on a three-dimensional sensing unit and includes sensing data in three or more different directions, the sensing data representing data obtained by detecting ice cubes inside the ice storage container; Based on the three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container, the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container is determined, and then the amount of ice in the ice storage container is determined.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that The determining the volume of ice in the ice storage container based on the three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container, and then determining the amount of ice in the ice storage container, includes: determining distance data between the ice cube and the ice storage container in different directions based on the three-dimensional sensing data; Calculating and determining the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container according to the distance data and the size of the ice storage container; The amount of ice in the ice storage container is determined according to the size of the ice storage container and the volume of the ice cubes.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The calculating and determining the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container according to each of the distance data and the size of the ice storage container includes: If, in the three-dimensional sensing data, a deviation of distance data at different heights in the same direction is less than or equal to a preset deviation value, it is determined that the ice cubes in the ice storage container are of regular volume, and the volume of the ice cubes is determined based on the distance data and the size of the ice storage container; If, in the three-dimensional sensing data, a deviation of distance data at different heights in the same direction is greater than a preset deviation value, it is determined that the ice cubes in the ice storage container have an irregular volume, and three-dimensional sub-volumes are calculated based on the heights corresponding to the respective distance data and the size of the ice storage container, and the volume of the ice cubes is further determined based on the three-dimensional sub-volumes.

13. An ice quantity detection device, characterized in that: The device comprises: A data input module is configured to obtain three-dimensional sensing data of the ice storage container; the three-dimensional sensing data is obtained based on a three-dimensional sensing unit and includes sensing data in three or more different directions, the sensing data representing data obtained by detecting ice cubes inside the ice storage container; The ice quantity calculation module is used to determine the volume of ice cubes in the ice storage container based on the three-dimensional sensing data and the size of the ice storage container, and further determine the amount of ice in the ice storage container.

14. A computer device comprising a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, wherein: When the processor executes the computer program, the steps of the method according to any one of claims 10 to 12 are implemented.

15. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that: When the computer program is executed by a processor, the steps of the method according to any one of claims 10 to 12 are implemented.

16. A computer program product comprising a computer program, characterized in that When the computer program is executed by a processor, the steps of the method according to any one of claims 10 to 12 are implemented.

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