Laundry treating apparatus and control method thereof

By detecting the user's location and type using radar sensors, the washing machine's display screen and operating program are controlled, solving the problem of low intelligence in washing machines and enabling personalized services and energy savings.

CN120867044APending Publication Date: 2025-10-31FOSHAN SHUNDE HAIER ELECTRIC APPLIANCES CO LTD +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202410534208.5
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-04-30
Publication Date
2025-10-31

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Current washing machines are not very intelligent and lack a sense of technology, requiring users to manually issue commands to start or control the equipment.

Method used

The device detects the user's location and type using radar sensors, controls the display screen to show the corresponding interface and operating program, and actively adjusts the device's operating status based on the user's proximity and type.

Benefits of technology

It enhances the intelligence and technological sophistication of washing machines, provides personalized services, improves user experience, and saves energy.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of clothes treatment, in particular to clothes treatment equipment and a control method thereof, and aims to solve the problems that in the prior art, a washing machine is low in operation intelligence degree and lacks science and technology. In order to achieve the purpose, the control method comprises the steps that when or after a user is located in the space where the clothes processing equipment is located, whether the user gets close to the clothes processing equipment or not is judged; obtaining the type of the user; and controlling operation of the clothes processing equipment based on the first judgment result of whether the user approaches the clothes processing equipment or not and / or the type of the user. According to the invention, the operation of the clothes processing equipment can be controlled based on the actual graph and actual needs of the user, appropriate services are actively provided for the user, and the intelligent degree and the sense of science and technology of the clothes processing equipment are effectively improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of clothing processing technology, and specifically provides a clothing processing device and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of science and technology, washing machines are becoming increasingly intelligent. For example, washing machines can automatically determine the amount of detergent or the washing program based on the weight or material of the clothes. When it's time to wash clothes, the user simply needs to put the clothes in the washing machine and start it. Washing machines are usually equipped with a display screen that shows information such as washing parameters and washing time so that the user can understand the current washing progress.

[0003] However, washing machines usually only start operating after receiving instructions, which are typically given by the user through buttons or voice commands. This results in a low level of intelligence and a lack of technological sophistication.

[0004] Accordingly, a new technical solution is needed in this field to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, namely, to solve the problems of low intelligence and lack of technological feel in the operation of washing machines in the prior art.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a control method for a garment processing device, the control method comprising:

[0007] At the same time or after a user is in the space where the clothing processing equipment is located, determine whether the user is close to the clothing processing equipment;

[0008] Obtain the user's type;

[0009] The operation of the clothing processing equipment is controlled based on a first determination of whether the user is near the clothing processing equipment and / or the type of the user.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the above control method, the clothing handling device includes a display screen, and the step of "controlling the operation of the clothing handling device based on a first judgment result of whether the user is near the clothing handling device and / or the type of the user" further includes:

[0011] If the user approaches the clothing processing device, the display screen is controlled to display a first display interface, which includes at least a first preset image, and the first preset image corresponds to the user's type.

[0012] The clothing processing equipment is controlled to run a preset program based on the user's type.

[0013] In the preferred embodiment of the above control method, the step of "controlling the operation of the clothing processing equipment according to the user's type" further includes:

[0014] The preset program is determined based on the user type and the mapping relationship between user type and program;

[0015] Control the garment processing equipment to run the preset program.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of the above control method, the control method further includes:

[0017] At the same time or after the user approaches the clothing processing device, the user's position relative to the clothing processing device is obtained;

[0018] The rotation of the first preset image is controlled based on the orientation.

[0019] When there are clothes in the clothing processing drum, determine whether the clothes have been processed.

[0020] Based on a second determination of whether the garment has been processed, a reminder or recommended garment processing procedure is issued.

[0021] In the preferred embodiment of the above control method, the clothing processing device includes a door, and the step of "determining whether the clothing is processed clothing" further includes:

[0022] The status of the door is used to determine whether the garment has been processed.

[0023] In the preferred embodiment of the above control method, the step of "issuing a reminder or recommending a clothing processing procedure based on the second judgment result of whether the clothing is clothing that has been processed" further includes:

[0024] If the garment has already been processed, a notification will be issued;

[0025] If the garment is not already processed, a garment processing procedure is recommended.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment of the above control method, the control method further includes:

[0027] Before recommending a clothing processing procedure, a clothing processing procedure is selectively recommended based on the user's type.

[0028] In the preferred embodiment of the above control method, the step of "controlling the operation of the clothing processing equipment based on a first judgment result of whether the user is near the clothing processing equipment and / or the type of the user" further includes:

[0029] If the user is not near the clothing processing device, the display screen is controlled to display a second display interface, which includes at least a second preset image, and the brightness of the second display interface is less than or equal to the brightness of the first display interface.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment of the above control method, the garment handling equipment is equipped with a radar detector, and the control method further includes:

[0031] The radar detector determines whether a user is located within the space where the clothing processing equipment is situated.

[0032] In the technical solution of this invention, when a user is located within the space occupied by the clothing processing equipment, it is determined whether the user is close to the equipment and the user's type is obtained. Then, based on the first determination result of whether the user is close to the equipment and / or the user's type, the operation of the clothing processing equipment is controlled. In this way, the operation of the clothing processing equipment can be proactively controlled according to the user's actual intentions and needs, proactively providing the user with more tailored services, improving the intelligence and technological sophistication of the clothing processing equipment, and enhancing the user experience.

[0033] Furthermore, if a user approaches the garment processing device, indicating an intention to operate it, the display screen is activated to show a first display interface. This first interface includes at least a first preset image corresponding to the user's type, and its brightness is relatively high. This allows the user to clearly see the first preset image and other relevant information (such as washing parameters, weather parameters, etc.), enhancing user comfort and experience. Then, based on the user's type, the garment processing device is controlled to run a preset program. This preset program has a mapping relationship with the user's type, ensuring the device runs the program corresponding to that type, thus providing better service. When the user approaches the garment processing device, the first preset image rotates based on the user's position relative to the device, further enhancing the user's interactive experience. Finally, based on whether there are processed garments in the processing drum, a reminder or recommended processing program is issued to better serve the user.

[0034] If the user does not approach the garment processing equipment, it means that the user does not intend to operate the garment processing equipment. At this time, the control display screen will display a second display interface. The second display interface includes at least a second preset image and has a low brightness. This can save power, display the basic information that you want to know, and quickly adjust its status when the user approaches the garment processing equipment.

[0035] Through the above control method, based on the first judgment result of whether the user is close to the clothing processing equipment and the user type, the display brightness of the display screen, the type of preset image displayed on the display screen, and the operation program of the clothing processing equipment are actively adjusted. In this way, the service that is more in line with the user's needs can be proactively provided, the user experience can be improved, and energy can be saved at the same time.

[0036] Secondly, the present invention also provides a garment processing device, which includes a control module for executing the control method described in any of the foregoing schemes.

[0037] It should be noted that the garment processing equipment has all the technical effects of the aforementioned control method, which will not be elaborated here. Attached Figure Description

[0038] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below using a drum washing machine as an example and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0039] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of a control method for a drum washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the present invention of controlling a drum washing machine based on the user's location and user type;

[0041] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the second display interface of a display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the first display interface of a display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of an embodiment of the present invention, which adjusts the orientation of a first preset image according to the user's location and recommends a washing program according to the state of the clothes in the washing drum and the user's type.

[0044] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0045] 1. Second preset image; 2. First preset image. Detailed Implementation

[0046] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Although this embodiment uses a drum washing machine as an example, it is obviously applicable to other types of clothing processing equipment such as pulsator washing machines, dryers, washer-dryer combos, garment care machines, and shoe washing machines.

[0047] It should be noted that, in the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "connected" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0048] Currently, washing machines typically operate only after receiving instructions, usually issued by the user via buttons or voice commands. This approach is relatively passive, lacking in intelligence and technological sophistication. Therefore, this invention controls the washing machine's operation based on a preliminary assessment of the user's proximity and the user's type. This proactive control ensures the washing machine operates according to the user's actual needs, significantly enhancing its intelligence and technological sophistication.

[0049] In this invention, a drum washing machine includes a body and a door disposed on the front side of the body. The body has a washing drum that serves as a clothes handling drum, into which clothes can be placed. The door can pivotally open or close relative to the body. When the door is pivotally open relative to the body, the washing drum is exposed to the environment for the user to load and unload clothes. When the door is pivotally closed relative to the body, the washing drum is isolated from the environment. Alternatively, the door can be mounted to the body in a sliding or hinged manner.

[0050] In this invention, a radar sensor is installed on the drum washing machine, which can detect the user's position. The radar sensor can be located on the front side or other sides (such as the top side, right side, left side, etc.) near the front, or in other possible locations, as long as the user's position can be detected by the radar sensor.

[0051] When using radar sensors for detection, the radar sensor emits electromagnetic waves. These waves are reflected back after encountering a target. By analyzing the characteristics of the reflected waves, such as arrival time and frequency variations (Doppler effect), the target's position, distance, azimuth, altitude, type, and shape can be determined. The specific steps for determining the target's position, distance, azimuth, altitude, type, and shape using radar sensors can be found in existing radar systems for target detection, and will not be elaborated here.

[0052] It should be noted that the radar sensor may not be installed on the drum washing machine itself, but rather in the space where the drum washing machine is located, near the drum washing machine.

[0053] In this invention, the drum washing machine includes a display screen and a control module. The control module is connected to the display screen, through which the content output by the control module can be displayed. The control module can control the operation of the drum washing machine based on a first judgment result of whether a user is near the drum washing machine and / or the user's type. When the user is near the drum washing machine, it can control the display screen to show a first display interface and control the drum washing machine to run a preset program based on the user's type. It can adjust the orientation of the first preset image according to the user's location and issue reminders or recommend clothing processing programs based on a second judgment result of whether there are washed clothes in the washing drum. When the user is not near the drum washing machine, it can control the display screen to show a second display interface.

[0054] It should be noted that this control module can be a control chip that is inherent in the drum washing machine itself, a controller specifically designed to execute the control method of this application, or a functional module or unit of a general controller.

[0055] The following is combined Figures 1 to 5 This will illustrate possible implementations of the control method of the present invention.

[0056] like Figure 1 As shown, in one possible implementation, the control method of the present invention includes:

[0057] S100: Determine if a user is located in the space where the drum washing machine is located;

[0058] S101: When a user is in the space where the drum washing machine is located, determine whether the user is close to the drum washing machine;

[0059] S102: Obtain the user type;

[0060] S103: Control the operation of the drum washing machine based on the first judgment result of whether the user is near the drum washing machine and the user type.

[0061] In step S100, the space where the drum washing machine is located is detected by the aforementioned radar sensor to determine whether a user is in that space. As described above, when the radar sensor detects the space where the drum washing machine is located, the radar sensor emits electromagnetic waves outward. When a user enters the space, the characteristics of the received reflected waves will change, thus confirming that a user has entered the space.

[0062] In S101, after confirming in S100 that a user has entered the space, the system determines whether the user is close to the washing machine based on the detection results of the radar sensor.

[0063] In one possible implementation, the radar sensor can detect the user's location in real time and calculate the distance between the user and the drum washing machine based on the location. If the distance gradually decreases, it means that the user is getting closer to the drum washing machine. If the distance remains unchanged or gradually increases, it means that the user is not getting closer to the drum washing machine.

[0064] Obviously, it's also possible to determine whether the user is approaching the washing machine based on the distance between them. If this distance is less than or equal to a preset distance (e.g., 0.2 meters between the user and the washing machine, with a preset distance of 0.5 meters), it indicates the user is approaching the washing machine. If the distance is greater than the preset distance (e.g., 1 meter between the user and the washing machine, with a preset distance of 0.5 meters), it indicates the user is not approaching the washing machine. Clearly, the specific value of this preset distance can also be different, and those skilled in the art can flexibly determine it through experiments, calculations, etc.

[0065] Of course, the user's movement trajectory can be determined first based on the location detected by the radar sensor, and then it can be used to determine whether the user is close to the washing machine. Obviously, it is also possible to determine whether the user is close to the washing machine based on images or videos acquired by infrared sensors, image acquisition devices, etc., in addition to radar sensors. Taking infrared sensors as an example, infrared sensors emit infrared signals, which are reflected after illuminating the user. The distance between the user and the washing machine can be calculated by the time it takes for the infrared signal to travel from emission to reception. Without departing from the basic principles of this application, those skilled in the art can flexibly choose methods according to specific application scenarios, as long as it can accurately determine whether the user is close to the washing machine.

[0066] It should be noted that it is also possible to determine whether a user is near the washing machine at the same time as confirming that a user has entered the space.

[0067] In step S102, the user type is determined using the aforementioned radar sensor. The user type can be one of the following: child, adult, or elderly. Obviously, the user type can also be other types, such as a child, adult woman, or adult man.

[0068] When using radar sensors to determine the type of user, the radar sensor can be a thermopile radar. The thermopile radar can acquire thermal images of the user, and based on these thermal images, the user's height and physical characteristics can be determined, thereby determining the user's type.

[0069] It should be noted that user images can also be acquired using image acquisition devices (such as cameras or video cameras) installed on the drum washing machine. These images can then undergo image preprocessing, including facial and body feature extraction, and the removal of redundant information. A large training set of images of elderly people, children, and adults can then be used to train a neural network. Finally, the trained neural network can be used for recognition, thereby analyzing and identifying the user type in the image. Alternatively, other methods can be used to determine the user type. For example, the image acquired by the image acquisition device can be compared with pre-stored images of family members; the type of the member matching the pre-stored image is the user type currently in the indoor space. Other methods, such as infrared thermal imaging devices, can also be used to determine the user type. Without departing from the basic principles of this application, those skilled in the art can flexibly choose the specific method for determining the user type according to the specific application scenario, as long as the type of user located in the space occupied by the drum washing machine can be determined.

[0070] It should be noted that although the above is illustrated by taking the example of executing S101 first and then S102, it is obviously also possible to execute S102 first and then S101, or to execute S101 and S102 simultaneously.

[0071] In S103, the operation of the drum washing machine is controlled based on the first judgment result in S101 and the user type determined in S102.

[0072] Through the above control methods, the operation of the drum washing machine can be proactively controlled according to the user's actual intentions and needs. Without the user issuing any instructions, it can proactively provide appropriate services to the user, thereby effectively improving the intelligence and technological feel of the drum washing machine and enhancing the user experience.

[0073] It should be noted that the operation of the drum washing machine can also be controlled based solely on the initial judgment of whether the user is near the drum washing machine or the user's type.

[0074] In one possible implementation, when it is determined that a user is present in the space where the drum washing machine is located, the operation of the drum washing machine is controlled based on a first determination of whether the user is near the drum washing machine and the user's type. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 2 The possible implementations of the control method of the present invention will be described in detail below.

[0075] like Figure 2 As shown, in one possible implementation, the control method of the present invention includes:

[0076] S200: Obtain the user's location;

[0077] S201: Determine whether the user is near the drum washing machine based on the user's location. If yes, execute S203; otherwise, execute S202.

[0078] S202: Control the display screen to show the second display interface;

[0079] S203: Obtain the user type;

[0080] S204: Control the display screen to show the first display interface;

[0081] S205: Determine the preset program based on the user type and the mapping relationship between the user type and the program;

[0082] S206: Controls the drum washing machine to run a preset program.

[0083] In S200, the user's location is obtained through the aforementioned radar sensor.

[0084] In S201, the distance between the user and the drum washing machine is determined based on the user's location obtained in S200. Then, based on this distance, it is determined whether the user is close to the drum washing machine. The specific process of determining whether the user is close to the drum washing machine based on distance is as described above and will not be repeated here.

[0085] If the user does not approach the washing machine, it means the user is merely passing by the space where the washing machine is located and has no intention of operating it. In this case, the control display shows the second display interface, i.e., S202 is executed. The brightness of the second display interface is slightly lower than that of the first display interface, so that it can display the information that the user cares about while saving energy. The second display interface includes a second preset image, which can be a simple Q-version character image, a simplified character portrait, or other possible images, thereby improving the user's interactive experience.

[0086] In one possible implementation, while the drum washing machine is running, the second display interface may also include simplified operating parameters (e.g., washing status, remaining washing time, etc.), weather parameters (e.g., current temperature, current humidity, etc.), and information such as the city where the drum washing machine is located. Figure 3The display shows a simplified chibi-style image of a character, serving as the second preset image 1, on the left side of the screen. Simplified operating parameters are displayed at the top right, and simplified city information and weather parameters are displayed at the bottom right. Of course, when the washing machine is not running, this second display interface may only include weather parameters (e.g., current temperature, current humidity) and the city where the washing machine is located. Without departing from the basic principles of this application, those skilled in the art can flexibly plan the specific content of the second display interface and the display area of ​​each piece of information according to the specific application scenario, as long as it includes the second preset image and can display information of interest to the user.

[0087] If a user approaches the front-loading washing machine, it indicates that the user intends to operate the washing machine. In this case, the user's type is obtained, which means executing S203. The specific steps for obtaining the user's type are roughly similar to the steps in S102 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0088] In step S204, the control display screen shows a first display interface with high brightness so that the user can clearly see the content displayed on the screen. The first display interface includes a first preset image, which corresponds to the user type obtained in step S203. For example, if the user type is a child, the first preset image can be a full-body image of a chibi-style character, a cute cartoon or animal figure, with bright colors to easily attract the child's attention. Similarly, if the user type is an adult, the first preset image can be a personal butler or a lifelike figure. Furthermore, if the user type is an elderly person, the first preset image can be an elderly person or a warm and friendly image of a service worker.

[0089] It should be noted that when determining the first preset image, an image database can be pre-constructed. This image database stores various character types and images corresponding to each character type. The user type obtained in S203 is matched with the character types in the image database, and the image corresponding to the successfully matched character type is determined as the first preset image. Alternatively, a lookup table can be pre-constructed, where character types and images correspond one-to-one. The user type obtained in S203 is compared with the character types in the lookup table, and the image corresponding to the matching character type is determined as the first preset image. Of course, other methods can also be used to determine the first preset image. Without departing from the basic principles of this application, those skilled in the art can flexibly choose the specific method for determining the first preset image according to the specific application scenario, as long as the first preset image corresponding to the user type can be accurately determined.

[0090] In one possible implementation, while the drum washing machine is running, the first display interface may further include operating parameters (e.g., washing status, remaining washing time, number of rinses, number of spins, etc.), weather parameters (e.g., current temperature, current humidity, highest temperature of the day, lowest temperature of the day, etc.), and information such as the city where the drum washing machine is located. Figure 4 The content shown in the image is as follows: the left side of the display screen shows a full-body image of a Q-version character, which serves as the first preset image 2; the upper right side displays detailed operating parameters; and the lower right side displays detailed city information and weather parameters. Without departing from the basic principles of this application, those skilled in the art can flexibly plan the specific content of the first display interface and the display areas of each piece of information according to specific application scenarios, as long as it includes the first preset image and can display information of interest to the user.

[0091] It should be noted that the user's type can also be obtained simultaneously with the user's location, meaning that S203 can be executed concurrently with S200. Alternatively, the user's type can be obtained after the user's location but before determining whether the user is near the washing machine, meaning that S203 can be executed after S200 but before S201. Or, the user's type can be obtained simultaneously with determining whether the user is near the washing machine, meaning that S203 can be executed concurrently with S201. Without departing from the basic principles of this application, those skilled in the art can flexibly choose the specific timing for obtaining the user's type according to the specific application scenario, as long as the first preset image corresponding to the user's type can be determined when the first display interface is displayed on the screen.

[0092] In S205, after the control display screen displays the first display interface, a preset program is determined based on the user type and the mapping relationship between the user type and the program. In this mapping relationship, the user type and the program correspond one-to-one. The user type obtained in S203 is compared with the user type in this mapping relationship, and the program corresponding to the matching type is determined as the preset program.

[0093] For example, in this mapping relationship, when the user type is a child, the corresponding program could be activating the child lock, playing a story, or opening a game interface; when the user type is an adult, the corresponding program could be proactively sending washing suggestions and troubleshooting suggestions via voice or text; when the user type is an elderly person, the corresponding program could be displaying relevant information in a larger font and broadcasting this information via voice. This relevant information could be the aforementioned operating parameters, weather parameters, the city where the washing machine is located, or recommended washing programs, etc. Of course, the programs corresponding to each user type could be other than those mentioned above. Without departing from the basic principles of this application, those skilled in the art can flexibly select the programs corresponding to each user type according to the specific application scenario, as long as the preset programs determined based on this mapping relationship can meet the user's needs and better serve the user.

[0094] It should be noted that, in determining the preset program, a program database can be pre-built, storing various user types and corresponding programs for each user type. The user types obtained in S203 are matched with the user types in the program database, and the program corresponding to the successfully matched user type is determined as the preset program. Alternatively, a lookup table can be pre-built, with a one-to-one correspondence between user types and programs. The user types obtained in S203 are compared with the user types in the lookup table, and the program corresponding to the matching user type is determined as the preset program. Of course, other methods can also be used to determine the preset program. Without departing from the basic principles of this application, those skilled in the art can flexibly choose the specific method for determining the preset program according to the specific application scenario, as long as the determined program can better serve the user.

[0095] It should be noted that the preset program can also be determined at the same time as or before the control display screen displays the first display interface, that is, S205 is executed at the same time as or before S204 is executed.

[0096] In S206, the drum washing machine is controlled to run the preset program determined in S205.

[0097] Through the above control method, based on the first judgment result of whether the user is close to the drum washing machine and the user type, the display brightness of the display screen, the type of preset image displayed on the display screen, and the operation program of the drum washing machine are actively adjusted. In this way, personalized services can be provided according to the actual needs of the user and the user type, proactively providing services that meet the user's needs, improving the user experience, and saving energy at the same time.

[0098] In one possible implementation, after determining in S201 that a user is approaching the drum washing machine, the first preset image is adjusted according to the user's location, and the operation of the drum washing machine is controlled based on the determination result of whether there are processed clothes in the washing drum and the user's type. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 5 The possible implementations of the control method of the present invention will be further explained below.

[0099] like Figure 5 As shown, in one possible implementation, the control method of the present invention further includes:

[0100] S300: Obtain the user's position relative to the drum washing machine;

[0101] S301: Control the first preset image to rotate toward the user;

[0102] S302: Determine if there are clothes in the washing drum. If yes, proceed to S303; otherwise, return to S300.

[0103] S303: Determine whether the clothes in the washing drum are already washed. If yes, proceed to S304; otherwise, proceed to S305.

[0104] S304: Issue a reminder;

[0105] S305: Obtain the user type;

[0106] S306: Determine if the user's type is a child. If yes, return to execute S305; otherwise, execute S307.

[0107] S307: Determine if the user is an elderly person. If yes, execute S309; ​​otherwise, execute S308.

[0108] S308: Recommended washing program;

[0109] S309: Recommends the initial washing program and announces the initial washing program via voice;

[0110] S310: Determine the final washing procedure based on the received feedback.

[0111] In S300, the user's location is obtained through the aforementioned radar sensor, and the space where the drum washing machine is located is divided into areas, for example, into left, middle, and right areas from left to right. The user's location is then determined, thus determining the user's orientation relative to the drum washing machine.

[0112] In step S301, based on the orientation determined in step S300, the first preset image displayed on the screen is rotated to face the user. The turning action can be preset according to the orientation, and rendering and drawing steps can be completed beforehand. Then, the first preset image is controlled to turn according to the preset turning action. Obviously, other possible existing technologies can also be used to turn the first preset image towards the user's location.

[0113] In S302, it is determined whether there are clothes inside the washing drum.

[0114] It should be noted that the presence of clothing in the washing drum can be determined by using a weight sensor installed inside the drum. This sensor acquires the current weight of the drum and compares it to its initial weight. If the current weight is greater than the initial weight, it indicates the presence of clothing. The initial weight of the drum can be pre-stored in the washing machine's storage module. Alternatively, an image acquisition device (such as a camera) installed on the washing machine can be used to determine the presence of clothing. This device acquires an image of the drum's interior and analyzes it using existing image recognition technology, or compares the image with an image of an empty drum, thus determining whether clothing is present. Clearly, other methods can also be used to determine the presence of clothing. Without departing from the basic principles of this application, those skilled in the art can flexibly choose specific methods based on the specific application scenario, as long as the presence of clothing in the drum is accurately determined.

[0115] If there are no clothes in the washing drum, it means that there was no intention to process clothes before or at present. In this case, the user's location will continue to be monitored, which means that S300 will be executed.

[0116] If there are clothes in the washing drum, it is further determined whether the clothes are already washed, that is, S303 is executed.

[0117] In one possible implementation, to determine whether the clothes in the washing drum are finished washing, it can first be determined whether the drum washing machine has just finished running a washing program. If the washing program has just finished, the open or closed state of the door can be used to determine whether the clothes are finished washing. If the drum washing machine is set to not open the door after washing, that is, the door remains closed after washing, in this case, if the door is closed, meaning the washing program has just finished and the door is closed, then the clothes in the washing drum are finished washing; if the door is open, meaning the washing program has just finished and the door is open, then the clothes in the washing drum are not finished washing. If the front-loading washing machine is set to open the door after the wash cycle is complete (meaning the door is open after the wash cycle), then if the door is open (meaning the wash cycle has just finished) the clothes in the drum are finished washing; if the door is closed (meaning the wash cycle has just finished) the clothes in the drum are not finished washing. This setting allows for accurate determination of whether the clothes in the drum are finished washing.

[0118] It should be noted that, to determine whether a drum washing machine has just finished a washing program, one can do so by accessing the washing machine's operation record and observing the weight change trend of the clothes in the drum. The operation parameters are typically recorded in the drum washing machine's storage module; accessing this record will determine whether the washing machine has just finished a washing program. When judging based on the weight change trend of the clothes in the drum, a weight sensor installed inside the drum washing machine continuously acquires the weight of the clothes. If, during the current operation, the weight change trend of the clothes includes several (e.g., three or four) trends of gradually increasing and then decreasing, it indicates that the clothes in the drum have undergone washing, several rinsing cycles, and spin-drying, thus indicating that the drum washing machine has just finished a washing program. Obviously, other possible methods can also be used to determine whether the drum washing machine has just finished a washing program. Without departing from the basic principles of this application, those skilled in the art can flexibly choose specific judgment methods according to specific application scenarios, as long as it accurately determines whether the drum washing machine has just finished a washing program.

[0119] It should be noted that, in determining whether the clothes in the washing drum are finished washing, an image acquisition device (such as a camera) installed on the drum washing machine can also be used. This image acquisition device can acquire images of the inside of the washing drum, and by analyzing these images using existing image recognition technology, the shape of the clothes in the washing drum can be determined. The shape of the clothes is then compared with images containing unwashed clothes and images containing finished clothes to determine whether the clothes are finished or unwashed. Alternatively, a humidity sensor installed in the washing drum can be used. If the humidity inside the drum is higher than the ambient humidity, the clothes are finished washing; if the humidity is less than or equal to the ambient humidity, the clothes are not finished washing. Of course, other methods can also be used to determine whether the clothes are finished washing. Without departing from the basic principles of this application, those skilled in the art can flexibly choose specific determination methods according to specific application scenarios, as long as the determination of whether the clothes in the washing drum are finished washing is accurate.

[0120] If the clothes in the washing drum are already washed, a reminder will be issued, i.e., S304 will be executed, reminding the user to dry the clothes in time to prevent them from developing odors if left undried for a long time.

[0121] It should be noted that the reminder can be issued via voice, text, alarm sound, or any combination thereof. Taking a voice reminder as an example, it can be played through the voice module (such as a speaker or horn) on the drum washing machine. At the same time, it can also be combined with a first preset image displayed on the screen. The first preset image can respond to the voice reminder with corresponding actions and expressions to better enhance the user experience.

[0122] If the clothes in the washing machine drum are not yet washed, meaning they are still awaiting washing, then the user's type is retrieved, i.e., step S305 is executed. It should be noted that the method for retrieving the user's type is roughly similar to that described in S102 and S203 above, and will not be repeated here. Furthermore, if the user's type has already been retrieved before executing S305, S305 can be omitted, and S306 can be executed directly.

[0123] In S306, determine whether the user type identified in S305 is a child.

[0124] If the user type determined in S305 is a child, there is no need to recommend a washing program; simply return to obtain the user type, meaning return to execute S305.

[0125] If the user type determined in S305 is not a child, then it is further determined whether the user type is elderly, that is, S307 is executed.

[0126] If the user is not an elderly person, meaning they are an adult, then a washing program is recommended, i.e., S308 is executed. This allows for proactively recommending washing programs when the user is preparing to do laundry, enabling a more direct interaction with adult users and providing more professional service.

[0127] If the user is an elderly person, an initial washing program is recommended and announced via voice, i.e., S309 is executed so that the elderly person can more easily access the recommended initial washing program.

[0128] In S308 and S309, when recommending washing programs and initial washing programs, recommendations can be made based on factors such as the weight of the clothes to be washed, the material of the clothes, the degree of soiling of the clothes, the weather parameters of the location of the drum washing machine, the user's washing habits, or a combination of the aforementioned factors. For example, taking the recommendation of a washing program based on the weight of the clothes to be washed as an example, firstly, the weight of the clothes in the drum is obtained through the weight sensor installed in the drum washing machine. Then, based on this weight, washing parameters such as the amount of detergent, the amount of water, and the number of rinses are determined, and a washing program composed of these washing parameters is recommended.

[0129] It should be noted that when the initial washing program is announced by voice in S309, it is roughly similar to the method of sending reminders by voice in S304 above. It can be played by the voice module (such as speaker, horn, etc.) set on the drum washing machine. At the same time, it can also be combined with the first preset image displayed on the display screen. The first preset image can make corresponding actions and expressions in conjunction with the voice reminder.

[0130] In the S310, after the initial washing program is announced via voice, if the received feedback is "yes," the initial washing program is set as the final washing program. If the received feedback is "no," the system waits for the user's next instruction or recommends a new program until confirmation is received. This makes it easier for elderly people to understand and operate the front-loading washing machine, improving the user experience.

[0131] It should be noted that, alternatively, a washing program can be directly recommended if it is determined that the user is not a child; that is, if the result of the judgment in S306 is negative, S308 can be executed directly. Alternatively, a washing program can be directly recommended after determining that the clothes in the washing drum are not yet finished washing; that is, if the result of the judgment in S303 is negative, S308 can be executed directly.

[0132] After determining the final washing program, you can either directly control the drum washing machine to run the washing program, or you can control the drum washing machine to run the washing program after receiving the user's washing instruction.

[0133] It should be noted that although the above explanation uses the example of executing S300 and S301 first, followed by S302 to S310, it is clear that S300 and S302 can be executed simultaneously. This means that while adjusting the orientation of the first preset image based on the user's location, a reminder or recommended washing program is issued based on the state of the clothes in the washing tub and the user's type. Alternatively, S302 to S310 can be executed first, followed by S300 and S310. This means that a reminder or recommended washing program is first issued based on the state of the clothes in the washing tub and the user's type, and then the orientation of the first preset image is adjusted based on the user's location.

[0134] It should be noted that after determining that the user is close to the drum washing machine in S201, it is also possible to further adjust the orientation of the first preset image based on the user's position, or to issue a reminder or recommend clothes based on the state of the clothes in the washing drum and the type of the user. That is, after determining that the user is close to the drum washing machine in S201, it is also possible to execute only S300 and S301, or only S302 to S310.

[0135] Through the above control methods, the orientation of the first preset image can be adjusted when the user approaches the drum washing machine, and reminders or recommended washing programs can be issued according to the specific state of the clothes in the washing drum and the user's type, which improves the interactive experience. It can also proactively remind the user to dry the clothes or recommend washing programs to the user, providing more personalized services for various types of users, thereby effectively improving the intelligence and technological feel of the drum washing machine and enhancing the user experience.

[0136] It should be noted that, in S201, when it is determined that the user is approaching the drum washing machine, the first preset image is adjusted according to the user's position, and the operation of the drum washing machine is controlled according to the judgment result of whether there are processed clothes in the washing drum.

[0137] In summary, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, by controlling the operation of the drum washing machine based on a first judgment result of whether the user is near the drum washing machine and the user's type, the operation of the drum washing machine can be proactively controlled according to the user's actual intentions and needs, thereby improving the intelligence and technological feel of the drum washing machine and enhancing the user experience. When the user is near the drum washing machine, the control display screen is set to high brightness for easy viewing, and at least a first preset image is displayed. Based on the user's type, the drum washing machine is controlled to run a preset program. Furthermore, the orientation of the first preset image is adjusted based on the user's location, and reminders or recommendations for suitable washing programs are issued based on the state of the clothes in the drum and the user's type, thereby effectively enhancing interactivity and providing personalized services for different users. When the user is not near the drum washing machine, the control display screen is set to low brightness, and at least a second preset image is displayed. In this way, services that are more tailored to the user's needs can be proactively provided, enhancing the user experience while also saving energy.

[0138] In addition, the present invention also provides a garment processing device, which includes a control module for executing the control method described in any of the foregoing schemes.

[0139] It should be noted that the garment processing equipment has all the technical effects of the aforementioned control method, which will not be elaborated here.

[0140] Although the steps in the above embodiments are described in the above order, those skilled in the art will understand that in order to achieve the effect of this embodiment, different steps do not need to be executed in such order. They can be executed simultaneously (in parallel) or in reverse order. These simple changes are all within the protection scope of this application.

[0141] The technical solution of the present invention has been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of the present invention is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of the present invention, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after such changes or substitutions will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for a garment processing device, characterized in that, The control method includes: At the same time or after a user is in the space where the clothing processing equipment is located, determine whether the user is close to the clothing processing equipment; Obtain the user's type; The operation of the clothing processing equipment is controlled based on a first determination of whether the user is near the clothing processing equipment and / or the type of the user.

2. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clothing handling device includes a display screen, and the step of "controlling the operation of the clothing handling device based on a first determination result of whether the user is near the clothing handling device and / or the type of the user" further includes: If the user approaches the clothing processing device, the display screen is controlled to display a first display interface, which includes at least a first preset image, and the first preset image corresponds to the user's type. The clothing processing equipment is controlled to run a preset program based on the user's type.

3. The control method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The step of "controlling the operation of a preset program in the clothing processing equipment based on the user's type" further includes: The preset program is determined based on the user type and the mapping relationship between user type and program; Control the garment processing equipment to run the preset program.

4. The control method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The control method further includes: At the same time or after the user approaches the clothing processing device, the user's position relative to the clothing processing device is obtained; The rotation of the first preset image is controlled based on the orientation. When there are clothes in the clothing processing drum, determine whether the clothes have been processed. Based on a second determination of whether the garment has been processed, a reminder or recommended garment processing procedure is issued.

5. The control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The garment processing equipment includes a door, and the step of "determining whether the garment is processed" further includes: The status of the door is used to determine whether the garment has been processed.

6. The control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The step of "issuing a reminder or recommending a clothing disposal procedure based on the second determination result of whether the clothing has been processed" further includes: If the garment has already been processed, a notification will be issued; If the garment is not already processed, a garment processing procedure is recommended.

7. The control method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The control method further includes: Before recommending a clothing processing procedure, a clothing processing procedure is selectively recommended based on the user's type.

8. The control method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The step of "controlling the operation of the clothing processing equipment based on a first determination result of whether the user is near the clothing processing equipment and / or the type of the user" further includes: If the user is not near the clothing processing device, the display screen is controlled to display a second display interface, which includes at least a second preset image, and the brightness of the second display interface is less than or equal to the brightness of the first display interface.

9. The control method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The garment processing equipment is equipped with a radar detector, and the control method further includes: The radar detector determines whether a user is located within the space where the clothing processing equipment is situated.

10. A garment processing device, characterized in that, The garment processing equipment includes a control module, which is used to execute the control method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.