Static suppression method, clothing treatment apparatus, program product, and electronic apparatus

Abstract

The invention provides a static suppression method, clothes treatment equipment, a program product and electronic equipment, and relates to the technical field of household appliances. The method is applied to the clothes treatment equipment, the clothes treatment equipment comprises a first container, a hydroxyl generator and a circulating system, and the method comprises the steps that the hydroxyl generator is controlled to operate, and a first medium containing hydroxyl free radicals is generated; the first medium is gas, liquid or a gas-liquid mixture; and controlling the circulation system to operate, so that the first medium is conveyed to the first container filled with the clothes to inhibit static electricity on the clothes. According to the invention, the first medium containing the hydroxyl radicals is adopted to carry out electrostatic suppression on the clothes, no additional chemical substance is needed, the problems of user skin allergy and the like caused by chemical substance residues are avoided, the electrostatic suppression process is free of pollution to the environment, and the clothes can be sterilized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of home appliance technology, and more specifically, to a static electricity suppression method, clothing treatment equipment, process products, and electronic equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Clothes processed by washing machines, dryers, and other equipment may have static electricity. For example, in washer-dryer combos, the clothes tumble at high speed inside the drum during the drying process, generating friction and creating a high-temperature, low-humidity environment, which can easily generate static electricity that can remain on the clothes.

[0003] In related technologies, chemical methods are usually used, which require adding additional chemicals during the clothing treatment process to suppress static electricity. However, this may result in chemical residues, causing skin allergies or environmental pollution problems for users. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides a static electricity suppression method, clothing treatment equipment, process products, and electronic devices to at least partially solve the related technical problems.

[0005] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a static electricity suppression method is provided, applied to a garment processing device, the garment processing device including a first container, a hydroxyl generator, and a circulation system, the method comprising: controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator to generate a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals; the first medium being a gas, a liquid, or a gas-liquid mixture; and controlling the operation of the circulation system such that the first medium is transported to the first container containing garments to suppress static electricity on the garments.

[0006] Optionally, the hydroxyl generator includes an electrolysis module and a heater; controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator to generate a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals includes: controlling the electrolysis module to electrolyze water to generate a solution containing hydroxyl radicals; and controlling the heater to heat the solution containing hydroxyl radicals to form the first medium.

[0007] Optionally, the hydroxyl generator includes a precursor injection module and a photocatalytic module; controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator to generate a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals includes: controlling the precursor injection module to inject a precursor substance; controlling the photocatalytic module to generate ultraviolet light of a specific wavelength and irradiate the precursor substance, causing the precursor substance to react and generate the first medium.

[0008] Optionally, the hydroxyl generator includes an electrolysis module; controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator to generate a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals includes: controlling the electrolysis module to electrolyze water to generate a solution containing hydroxyl radicals as the first medium.

[0009] Optionally, the clothing processing equipment has a clothing drying function; controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator to generate a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals includes: controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator to generate a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals during the clothing drying process in the first container.

[0010] Optionally, the clothing processing equipment is equipped with a humidity sensor for detecting the humidity of the first container; the process of controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator during the drying of clothes in the first container includes: after the drying program is started in the first container, controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator in response to the humidity of the first container meeting a first preset condition.

[0011] Optionally, controlling the operation of the circulation system to deliver the first medium to the first container containing the clothes includes: during the drying process of the clothes in the first container, controlling the operation of the circulation system to introduce the first medium and the second medium for drying the clothes into the first container containing the clothes.

[0012] Optionally, the method further includes: controlling the hydroxyl generator to stop operating in response to detecting that the electrostatic state of the clothing in the first container meets a second preset condition or the operating state of the hydroxyl generator meets a third preset condition; wherein the electrostatic state is detected by an electrostatic sensor configured in the clothing processing equipment.

[0013] Optionally, the clothing processing equipment has a clothing drying function; the hydroxyl generator operates in the first container during the clothing drying process; the method further includes: after controlling the hydroxyl generator to stop operating, continuing to execute the drying program on the first container.

[0014] Optionally, the method further includes controlling the power of the hydroxyl generator based on one or more of the following factors: the load of clothing in the first container, the type of clothing, and the electrostatic state of the clothing; wherein the electrostatic state is detected by an electrostatic sensor configured in the clothing processing equipment.

[0015] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a garment processing apparatus is provided, comprising: a first container for holding garments; a hydroxyl generator for generating a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals; the first medium being a gas, a liquid, or a gas-liquid mixture; and a circulation system for conveying the first medium to the first container containing the garments to suppress static electricity on the garments.

[0016] Optionally, the hydroxyl generator includes: an electrolysis module for electrolyzing water to generate a solution containing hydroxyl radicals; and a heater for heating the solution containing hydroxyl radicals to form the first medium.

[0017] Optionally, the garment processing equipment further includes a second container for holding water electrolyzed by the electrolysis module; the circulation system includes a circulation pipeline connecting the second container and the first container for passing the first medium from the second container into the first container through the circulation pipeline.

[0018] Optionally, the first container is an inner bucket, the second container is an outer bucket, and the inner bucket is located inside the outer bucket; the bottom of the outer bucket is provided with a recessed area for holding water electrolyzed by the electrolysis module.

[0019] Optionally, the hydroxyl generator includes: a precursor injection module for injecting a precursor substance; and a photocatalytic module for generating ultraviolet light of a specific wavelength and irradiating the precursor substance, wherein the precursor substance generates the first medium through a reaction.

[0020] Optionally, the circulation system is used to introduce the first medium and the second medium for drying clothes into the first container containing the clothes during the drying process in the first container.

[0021] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the method of the first aspect described above and possible implementations thereof.

[0022] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, an electronic device is provided, including a processor and a memory; wherein the memory is used to store executable instructions of the processor; and the processor is configured to implement the method of the first aspect described above and possible implementations thereof by executing the executable instructions.

[0023] The technical solution disclosed herein has the following beneficial effects: The first medium containing hydroxyl radicals is used to suppress static electricity in clothing, eliminating the need to introduce additional chemicals and avoiding problems such as skin allergies caused by chemical residues. Moreover, the static electricity suppression process is environmentally friendly. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a garment processing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 2 A flowchart of an electrostatic suppression method according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown; Figure 3 A flowchart of an electrostatic suppression method according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] The accompanying drawings are schematic illustrations of this disclosure and are not necessarily drawn to scale. Some block diagrams shown in the drawings may be functional entities and do not necessarily correspond to physically or logically independent entities. These functional entities may be implemented in software, in hardware modules or integrated circuits, or in networks, processors, or microcontrollers. Implementations can be carried out in various forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein. The features, structures, or characteristics described in this disclosure can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Numerous specific details are provided in the following description to give a thorough description of embodiments of this disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more specific details may be omitted when implementing the technical solutions of this disclosure, or other methods, components, apparatuses, steps, etc., may be used to replace one or more specific details.

[0027] Clothes processed by washing machines, dryers, and other similar equipment may have static electricity. Related technologies typically employ chemical methods to suppress static electricity, requiring the addition of extra chemicals during the garment processing, such as quaternary ammonium salts in fabric softeners. These chemicals remove the charge from the clothing fibers through electrostatic adsorption, thereby reducing static electricity. However, this method may leave chemical residues, causing skin allergies in users or environmental pollution problems. In addition, there are methods to reduce frictional static electricity through physical separation, but their effectiveness is not significant, especially when dealing with a large quantity of clothes. Another method involves increasing humidity to conduct static electricity away, but this can affect the drying process of the equipment, such as prolonging drying time, increasing energy consumption, and preventing clothes from drying completely.

[0028] In view of one or more of the above-mentioned problems, this disclosure provides a method for suppressing static electricity. This method can be applied to clothing processing equipment, such as washing machines, clothes dryers, washer-dryer combos, garment care machines, etc. This clothing processing equipment can perform static electricity suppression treatment on clothing to reduce or eliminate static electricity on the clothing, improving the user's wearing comfort. Furthermore, this clothing processing equipment can also perform one or more of the following treatments on clothing: washing, dehydration, drying, sterilization, disinfection, and softening. The following will first combine... Figure 1 The garment processing equipment is described.

[0029] refer to Figure 1As shown, the clothing processing device 100 includes a first container 110, a hydroxyl generator 120, and a circulation system 130. The first container 110 is a container for holding clothing, such as the inner drum of a washing machine or washer-dryer combo. The hydroxyl generator 120 is a device capable of generating hydroxyl free radicals. During operation, it generates a first medium containing hydroxyl free radicals. The first medium can be a gas, a liquid, or a gas-liquid mixture (such as water vapor containing liquid water). This disclosure does not limit the working principle or specific structure of the hydroxyl generator 120 in generating hydroxyl free radicals. For example, refer to... Figure 1 As shown, the hydroxyl generator 120 includes an electrolysis module 1201 and a heater 1202. The electrolysis module 1201 includes electrodes made of catalytic electrode materials capable of efficiently generating hydroxyl radicals, such as boron-doped diamond electrodes or titanium-based noble metal oxide coated electrodes. The electrolysis module 1201 is used to electrolyze water to produce a solution containing hydroxyl radicals, and the heater 1202 is used to heat the solution containing hydroxyl radicals to produce a first medium. Alternatively, the hydroxyl generator 120 includes a precursor injection module and a photocatalytic module. The precursor injection module is used to inject a precursor substance (such as ozone), and the photocatalytic module is used to generate ultraviolet light of a specific wavelength and irradiate the precursor substance, which then reacts to produce the first medium. A circulation system 130 is used to circulate gases or liquids within the garment processing equipment 100, and is capable of transporting the first medium generated by the hydroxyl generator 120 to a first container 110. (Reference) Figure 1 As shown, the circulation system 130 includes a circulation pipe 1301 and a circulation fan 1302. The circulation fan 1302 is used to generate negative pressure in the circulation pipe 1301, so that the material in the circulation pipe 1301 flows in a specific direction.

[0030] In one embodiment, the garment processing device 100 may further include a second container 140 for holding water electrolyzed by the electrolysis module 1201. (Reference) Figure 1 As shown, the second container 140 can be the outer tub of a washing machine or washer-dryer combo, and the first container 110 is located inside the second container 140. The bottom of the second container 140 has a recessed area that can hold water. Furthermore, a hydroxyl generator 120 can be disposed within the recessed area to generate a first medium by electrolyzing and heating the water within the recessed area.

[0031] In one embodiment, the garment processing device 100 includes a control unit, such as a microcontroller unit (MCU), for controlling various components of the garment processing device 100. The control unit can execute the electrostatic suppression method of this disclosure embodiment to achieve electrostatic suppression of the garments.

[0032] In one implementation, the process of the electrostatic suppression method can be referred to Figure 2As shown, the process includes the following steps S210 and S220: Step S210: Control the operation of the hydroxyl generator to generate a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals; the first medium is a gas, liquid, or gas-liquid mixture.

[0033] Hydroxyl radicals ( OH (hydroxyl radical) is a neutral atomic group formed by hydrogen and oxygen atoms. Independent of other molecules, it possesses extremely high reactivity. The first medium is a carrier of the hydroxyl radical and can be a fluid substance, whose main component can be water (liquid water, water vapor, or a mixture of both) or other substances. The first medium contains hydroxyl radicals. Exemplarily, the first medium is hydroxyl radical vapor, generated by heating and electrolyzing water. Alternatively, the first medium is an aqueous solution of hydroxyl radicals, which can be injected via spray.

[0034] This disclosure does not limit the timing of the start-up of the hydroxyl generator. For example, a user can operate the garment processing equipment to activate an antistatic program, and the control unit can control the hydroxyl generator to start at a specific time (e.g., after the equipment has preheated for 5 minutes) according to the settings in the program. Alternatively, the control unit can control the hydroxyl generator to start operating based on information from sensor feedback (e.g., the static electricity state on the garments in the first container detected by an antistatic sensor). The control unit can also send an operating command to the hydroxyl generator, and the hydroxyl generator will start working based on the operating command.

[0035] In one embodiment, the hydroxyl generator includes an electrolysis module and a heater. Controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator to produce a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals includes the following steps: The electrolysis module is controlled to electrolyze water, producing a solution containing hydroxyl radicals; The heater is controlled to heat a solution containing hydroxyl radicals to form a first medium.

[0036] The electrolysis module includes electrodes, which can employ catalytic electrode materials capable of efficiently generating hydroxyl radicals, such as boron-doped diamond electrodes or titanium-based noble metal oxide coated electrodes. The control unit can control the energization of the electrodes to electrolyze water and produce a solution containing hydroxyl radicals. The heater can be a resistance heater, etc. The control unit can control the energization of the heater to raise its temperature, heating the hydroxyl radical-containing solution to form a first medium, which can be hydroxyl radical-containing vapor.

[0037] In one embodiment, the hydroxyl generator includes a precursor injection module and a photocatalytic module; controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator to generate a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals includes the following steps: Control the injection of precursor substances by the precursor injection module; The photocatalytic module is controlled to generate ultraviolet light of a specific wavelength and irradiate the precursor material, causing the precursor material to react and produce the first medium.

[0038] The precursor material is a substance capable of generating hydroxyl radicals, such as hydrogen peroxide, ozone, or water vapor. The precursor injection module may include a pump, a sprayer, or a pneumatic injector. The control unit controls the operation of the precursor injection module, generating driving force to inject the precursor material into the photocatalytic reaction chamber. The photocatalytic module may include an ultraviolet lamp and a photocatalyst (such as titanium dioxide). The control unit controls the activation of the ultraviolet lamp, generating ultraviolet light of a specific wavelength, which can irradiate and excite the precursor material to react and produce the first medium. For example, ultraviolet light irradiates the precursor material on the catalyst surface, causing a photocatalytic reaction that generates hydroxyl radical gas or aerosol.

[0039] By electrolyzing and heating water or using photocatalysis, a gaseous first medium is obtained, which is beneficial for full contact with clothing. It is also suitable for introducing the first medium during clothing drying to suppress static electricity. The introduction of the first medium will not significantly increase the humidity inside the first container or the clothing, and has little impact on the drying process, ensuring that relatively dry clothing is obtained at the end of the clothing treatment process.

[0040] In one embodiment, the hydroxyl generator includes an electrolysis module. Controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator to produce a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals includes the following steps: The electrolysis module is controlled to electrolyze water to produce a solution containing hydroxyl radicals, which serves as the first medium.

[0041] The hydroxyl generator includes an electrolysis module, and a control unit controls the energization of the electrolysis module to electrolyze water. The hydroxyl generator does not include a heater; the solution containing hydroxyl radicals produced after electrolysis serves as the first medium. This simplifies the structure and principle of the hydroxyl generator. Furthermore, hydroxyl radicals exhibit relatively high stability in the liquid first medium, allowing it to carry a larger number of hydroxyl radicals and enhance electrostatic suppression.

[0042] Step S220: Control the operation of the circulation system so that the first medium is delivered to the first container containing the clothing to suppress static electricity on the clothing.

[0043] This disclosure does not limit the timing of starting the circulation system. For example, during the electrostatic suppression process, the circulation system can start operating synchronously with the hydroxyl generator, such as by the control unit simultaneously sending operating commands to both the hydroxyl generator and the circulation system. This ensures that the first medium generated by the hydroxyl generator is promptly delivered to the first container.

[0044] The circulation system can generate a pressure difference from the point of generation of the first medium to the first container, causing the first medium to be transported to the first container under the drive of the pressure difference. For example, if the first medium is a gaseous medium, the circulation system generates a negative pressure from the hydroxyl generator to the first container, allowing the first medium to flow into the first container. Alternatively, if the first medium is a liquid or a gas-liquid mixture, the circulation system can inject the first medium into the first container in the form of a spray or similar pneumatic method.

[0045] The first medium effectively suppresses static electricity on clothing through one or more of the following aspects: The hydroxyl radicals in the first medium are highly reactive and can combine with electrons on the clothing to reduce static electricity. The hydroxyl radicals in the first medium can ionize the surrounding gas (such as the second medium used for drying clothes, or the air in the first container). Ionization can occur within the first container or the circulation pipes, generating conductive ions. The active substances form temporary conductive channels on the surface of the clothing fibers, providing a discharge path for static charge, thereby suppressing static electricity. This achieves a physical-level, fundamental elimination of static electricity, with a more thorough effect, without the need to introduce additional chemical substances, avoiding problems such as skin allergies caused by chemical residues. Furthermore, the byproducts of hydroxyl radicals are substances such as water and oxygen, ensuring that the static electricity suppression process is environmentally friendly.

[0046] In addition to static electricity suppression, hydroxyl radicals also have strong oxidizing power, which can attack and destroy the cell membranes, proteins, and genetic material of bacteria and viruses. In this way, while eliminating static electricity, the clothes are disinfected, solving the problem of microbial contamination of clothes, realizing multi-functional treatment and improving treatment efficiency.

[0047] Furthermore, the embodiments disclosed herein integrate the hydroxyl generator into the garment processing equipment, which can suppress static electricity through the internal program of the equipment without the need for external equipment. It can also be combined with the original processing program of the garment processing equipment, resulting in lower implementation and application costs and adaptability to various life scenarios.

[0048] In one embodiment, the clothing processing equipment has a clothing drying function, such as heating and air circulation to dry clothes with hot air. The above-described control of the hydroxyl generator to produce a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals includes the following steps: During the clothes drying process in the first container, the hydroxyl generator is controlled to produce a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals.

[0049] In other words, static electricity suppression is achieved during the clothes drying process, eliminating the need for additional steps and integrating the drying and static electricity suppression processes to improve efficiency. Furthermore, the first container is kept in a low-humidity state during the drying process, which prevents hydroxyl radicals from being quenched by a large number of water molecules, thus enhancing the static electricity suppression effect.

[0050] It should be understood that static electricity suppression can be performed throughout the entire drying process or at a specific stage of the drying process. For example, the garment processing equipment can support a "drying + static electricity removal" program, in which the start and stop conditions for static electricity removal are set, such as time conditions. That is, after a certain period of time after the start of drying, the static electricity suppression process begins. At this time, the control unit controls the hydroxyl generator to run, and stops the operation of the hydroxyl generator after the static electricity suppression process has reached a certain duration.

[0051] In one embodiment, the garment processing equipment is equipped with a humidity sensor, such as a capacitive humidity sensor or a resistive humidity sensor, which can be installed inside the first container or in the air duct associated with the first container to detect the humidity (e.g., relative humidity) of the first container. During the garment drying process within the first container, controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator includes the following steps: After the drying program is started in the first container, the hydroxyl generator is controlled to operate in response to the humidity of the first container meeting the first preset condition.

[0052] The first preset condition may include a first humidity threshold or humidity range, such as the humidity range when most of the moisture on the surface of clothing has evaporated but is not excessively dry (e.g., 30%-50%), which is suitable for hydroxyl radical elimination of static electricity. The first preset condition can be determined based on experience or specific experimental data. For example, if the first preset condition is a humidity range of 30%-50%, when the humidity of the first container is detected to drop to 50%, the control unit controls the hydroxyl generator to start operating to suppress static electricity.

[0053] In one embodiment, the garment processing equipment is equipped with a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of a first container. After the drying program is started in the first container, the hydroxyl generator is controlled to operate in response to the humidity and temperature of the first container meeting a first preset condition. The first preset condition may further include a temperature threshold or a temperature range. For example, the first preset condition includes a temperature above 50°C and humidity between 30% and 50%. When the humidity and temperature of the first container are detected to meet the first preset condition, the hydroxyl generator is controlled to operate.

[0054] By adopting the above methods, the operating timing of the hydroxyl generator and the timing of electrostatic suppression are optimized, improving the efficiency and effect of electrostatic suppression, and reducing energy waste and the failure of hydroxyl free radicals.

[0055] In one embodiment, the operation of the above-mentioned control circulation system, which introduces the first medium into a first container containing clothing, includes the following steps: During the drying process of clothes in the first container, the circulation system is controlled to introduce the first medium and the second medium for drying clothes into the first container containing the clothes.

[0056] The second medium is a gas or other fluid medium, such as hot air, used for drying clothes. In one embodiment, the clothes handling equipment includes a drying module that can heat air, and a circulation system delivers the hot air to a first container to perform the clothes drying process within the first container.

[0057] The circulation system can start operating when or before the drying module generates hot air, typically earlier than the start time of electrostatic suppression. That is, after the drying process begins, the circulation system is controlled to operate first, before the hydroxyl generator starts. The circulation system introduces the second medium for drying clothes into the first container containing the clothes, causing the humidity in the first container to continuously decrease (while the temperature continuously increases, or rises to a certain level and then stabilizes). When the humidity meets the first preset condition, the hydroxyl generator is controlled to operate. At this time, the circulation system continues to operate, introducing both the first and second media into the first container containing the clothes, simultaneously performing drying and electrostatic suppression treatment.

[0058] In one embodiment, the first medium is vapor containing hydroxyl radicals, and the second medium is hot air. The two are mixed in a circulating pipeline to form active hot air, which is then introduced into the first container to fully contact the clothing. On one hand, the ionization of hydroxyl radicals ionizes the air in the first container, generating a large number of positive and negative ions. These ions act as charge carriers, rapidly neutralizing the static charge on the surface of the clothing fibers, thus inhibiting static electricity. On the other hand, the strong oxidizing power of hydroxyl radicals attacks and destroys the cell membranes, proteins, and genetic material of bacteria and viruses, achieving sterilization. Furthermore, at conventional drying temperatures, this achieves an effect comparable to high-temperature sterilization programs (where conventional drying temperatures are typically significantly lower than traditional high-temperature sterilization temperatures), broadening the scope of clothing care and saving energy.

[0059] In one embodiment, the electrostatic suppression method further includes the following steps: In response to detecting that the electrostatic state of the clothing in the first container meets a second preset condition or that the operating state of the hydroxyl generator meets a third preset condition, the hydroxyl generator is controlled to stop operating; wherein, the electrostatic state is detected by an electrostatic sensor configured in the clothing processing equipment.

[0060] The electrostatic sensor can be installed inside the first container or in the air duct connecting to the first container. It is used to detect the electrostatic state of the clothing inside the first container, including parameters such as electrostatic voltage and electric field strength. The second preset condition is used to measure whether the electrostatic state is below a standard; it can be a threshold parameter for the electrostatic state, which can be determined based on experience or specific experimental data. The operating status of the hydroxyl generator can include operating events, power, or temperature parameters. The third preset condition is a constraint on the operating status; it can be a threshold parameter for the operating status, which can be determined based on experience or specific experimental data.

[0061] In one implementation, only a second preset condition can be set, and in response to detecting that the static electricity state of the clothing in the first container meets the second preset condition, the hydroxyl generator can be controlled to stop operating.

[0062] In one implementation, only a third preset condition can be set, and in response to detecting that the operating state of the hydroxyl generator meets the third preset condition, the hydroxyl generator can be controlled to stop operating.

[0063] In one embodiment, a second preset condition and a third preset condition can be set simultaneously. In response to the static electricity state of the clothing meeting the second preset condition or the operating state of the hydroxyl generator meeting the third preset condition (i.e., meeting at least one of them), the hydroxyl generator is controlled to stop operating.

[0064] For example, the second preset condition is an electrostatic voltage threshold, and the third preset condition is an operating time threshold. After the hydroxyl generator starts running, if the electrostatic voltage of the clothing in the first container is detected to be lower than the electrostatic voltage threshold, or if the operating time of the hydroxyl generator reaches the operating time threshold, the control unit controls the hydroxyl generator to stop running, such as by sending a stop operation command to the hydroxyl generator to stop its operation, thus ending the electrostatic suppression process.

[0065] By using the above methods, we can ensure that the degree of static electricity suppression is appropriate, avoid excessive exposure of clothing to the environment of hydroxyl radicals, or prevent overuse of hydroxyl generators, thereby improving safety and saving energy.

[0066] In one embodiment, the garment processing equipment has a garment drying function; a hydroxyl generator operates within a first container during the garment drying process. The static electricity suppression method further includes the following steps: After the hydroxyl generator stops operating, the drying process continues on the first container.

[0067] During the operation of the hydroxyl generator, the first medium is delivered to the first container, which may cause the humidity of the first container to increase. Therefore, after the hydroxyl generator stops operating, the control unit can continue to execute a drying program on the first container, such as a brief hot air drying, to ensure that the first container is fully dry. For example, during the operation of the hydroxyl generator, the garment handling equipment executes a "drying + static elimination" program. This program itself sets the drying and static elimination times, where the drying end time is later than the static elimination end time. Thus, when the static elimination time ends, the control unit stops the hydroxyl generator, but the drying time has not yet ended, so the drying program continues for a period of time. Alternatively, during the operation of the hydroxyl generator, a first drying program (such as a main drying program) is executed, and after the hydroxyl generator stops operating, a second drying program (such as an additional drying program) is executed.

[0068] In one implementation, the termination of the drying process can be determined based on time or the drying status of the first container. For example, in the aforementioned "drying + static elimination" program, a fixed drying and static elimination time is set. When the static elimination time ends, if a certain amount of drying time remains, the drying process continues for that time. Alternatively, a second drying program can be set to a fixed duration, which is executed after the hydroxyl generator stops operating. Alternatively, after the hydroxyl generator stops operating, the drying process continues on the first container, and the drying status of the first container is monitored (e.g., humidity). When the drying status meets the requirements (e.g., humidity is below a certain threshold), the drying process ends, thereby ensuring the drying effect.

[0069] In one implementation, the hydroxyl generator can be stopped based on the drying time or drying status of the first container. For example, if a fixed drying time is set, a certain point in time before the end of the drying time (e.g., 10 minutes earlier than the end of drying) can be used as the stop time for the hydroxyl generator, and the generator can be stopped at that time. Alternatively, the hydroxyl generator can be stopped when the first container is close to meeting the drying requirements. For example, a second humidity threshold and a third humidity threshold can be set, where the second humidity threshold is greater than the third humidity threshold (it can be slightly higher than the third humidity threshold). When the humidity of the first container is detected to drop to the second humidity threshold, the hydroxyl generator is stopped, and the drying process continues. When the humidity of the first container is detected to drop to the third humidity threshold, the drying process is stopped.

[0070] In one embodiment, the electrostatic suppression method further includes the following steps: The power of the hydroxyl generator is controlled based on one or more of the following factors: the load of clothing in the first container, the type of clothing, and the electrostatic state of the clothing; wherein the electrostatic state is detected by an electrostatic sensor configured in the clothing processing equipment.

[0071] The clothing load refers to the quantity, weight, or volume of clothing in the first container, which can be detected by a weight sensor or image sensor. Clothing type refers to the fabric material of the clothing, such as synthetic fibers, cotton, wool, etc. Different fabrics generate different levels of static electricity. The clothing type can be determined based on the user-set clothing processing program (such as a washing program), or it can be automatically identified by an image sensor, optical sensor, etc. The static electricity state of the clothing is detected by a static electricity sensor, which can include static voltage, electric field strength, etc. The power of the hydroxyl generator is controlled based on one or more of these factors, thereby controlling the production of hydroxyl radicals and adjusting the degree of static electricity suppression. For example, a mapping relationship between clothing load, clothing type, static electricity state, and the power of the hydroxyl generator can be preset. During actual clothing processing, the power of the hydroxyl generator is determined and controlled based on this mapping relationship. This achieves intelligent static electricity suppression processing.

[0072] In one implementation, the process of the electrostatic suppression method can be referred to Figure 3 As shown, it includes the following steps: Step S301: Start the drying program; Step S302: Start the drying module and monitor the temperature and humidity of the inner drum; Step S303: Determine whether the first preset condition (i.e., the hydroxyl radical initiation condition) has been met. If yes, proceed to step S303. If no, continue to monitor the temperature and humidity of the inner tank. Step S304: Control the water inlet valve in the recessed area at the bottom of the outer tub; Step S305: Start the electrolysis module to electrolyze the water in the recessed area into a solution containing hydroxyl radicals; Step S306: Start the heater to heat the solution containing hydroxyl radicals into steam; Step S307: The vapor containing hydroxyl radicals is mixed with the hot air used for drying clothes through the circulation system and sent into the inner drum, producing the effects of steps S308 and S309. Step S308: Hydroxyl radicals coat the clothing, eliminating static electricity; Step S309: Sterilization by hydroxyl radical oxidation; Step S310: Determine whether the static electricity state of the clothing has reached the second preset condition using an electrostatic sensor. If yes, proceed to step S311; otherwise, continue to proceed to steps S307-S309. Step S311: Turn off the electrolysis module and heater, control the drain pump to drain the water from the recessed area, and the electrostatic inhibition and sterilization process ends.

[0073] This disclosure also provides a garment processing apparatus. This garment processing apparatus can be referred to... Figure 1 As shown, it includes: The first container 110 is used to hold clothing; Hydroxyl generator 120 is used to generate a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals; the first medium is a gas, liquid, or a gas-liquid mixture. A circulation system 130 is used to deliver a first medium to a first container 110 containing clothing in order to suppress static electricity on the clothing.

[0074] On the one hand, this clothing treatment equipment uses a primary medium containing hydroxyl radicals to suppress static electricity in clothing, achieving a thorough physical-level elimination of static electricity without the need for additional chemicals, thus avoiding skin allergies caused by chemical residues. Furthermore, the byproducts of hydroxyl radicals are water and oxygen, ensuring the static suppression process is environmentally friendly. On the other hand, hydroxyl radicals also possess strong oxidizing capabilities, capable of attacking and destroying the cell membranes, proteins, and genetic material of bacteria and viruses. This allows for simultaneous static elimination and disinfection of clothing, solving the problem of microbial contamination and achieving multi-functional processing with improved efficiency. Moreover, by integrating the hydroxyl generator into the clothing treatment equipment, static suppression can be achieved through the internal program, eliminating the need for external equipment. It can also be integrated with existing processing programs in the clothing treatment system, resulting in low implementation and application costs and adaptability to various lifestyle scenarios.

[0075] In one embodiment, the hydroxyl generator includes: an electrolysis module for electrolyzing water to generate a solution containing hydroxyl radicals; and a heater for heating the solution containing hydroxyl radicals to form a first medium. The electrolysis module includes electrodes, which may employ catalytic electrode materials capable of efficiently generating hydroxyl radicals, such as boron-doped diamond electrodes or titanium-based noble metal oxide coated electrodes. When energized, the electrolyzes water to generate hydroxyl radicals. The heater heats the electrolyzed water to form the first medium, which may be vapor containing hydroxyl radicals. This hydroxyl generator obtains a gaseous first medium by electrolyzing and heating water, which facilitates sufficient contact with clothing and is suitable for introducing the first medium during processes such as clothing drying to suppress static electricity. The introduction of the first medium does not significantly increase the humidity inside the first container or on the clothing, having minimal impact on the drying process and ensuring relatively dry clothing at the end of the processing. Furthermore, the structure and principle of this hydroxyl generator are relatively simple, and its implementation cost is low.

[0076] In one embodiment, the hydroxyl generator includes an electrolysis module but excludes a heater. It generates a solution containing hydroxyl radicals by electrolyzing water, serving as the first medium. This hydroxyl generator has a simpler structure and principle, and lower implementation cost. A circulation system delivers the hydroxyl radical-containing solution to a first inner drum and can spray it onto clothing inside the first container (e.g., the circulation system includes a nozzle to spray fluid from the circulation pipeline into the first container), allowing the first medium to contact the clothing and achieving electrostatic inhibition and sterilization.

[0077] In one embodiment, the garment processing equipment further includes a second container for holding water electrolyzed by the electrolysis module. The circulation system includes a circulation pipe connecting the second container and the first container for introducing the first medium from the second container into the first container through the circulation pipe.

[0078] In one embodiment, the circulation system includes a circulation fan, which may be installed on the circulation pipeline to generate driving force (such as airflow, pressure difference, etc.) within the circulation pipeline to drive the transport of materials within the pipeline.

[0079] In one embodiment, the first container is an inner tub, and the second container is an outer tub, with the inner tub situated within the outer tub. A recessed area is provided at the bottom of the outer tub to hold water to be electrolyzed by the electrolysis module. The electrolysis module can be located within the recessed area, electrolyzing the water there to generate a solution containing hydroxyl radicals. This fully utilizes the existing structure of the washing machine or washer-dryer combo; adding a hydroxyl generator achieves the electrostatic suppression function without requiring significant modifications to the existing equipment, thus reducing the implementation cost.

[0080] In one embodiment, the hydroxyl generator includes: a precursor injection module for injecting a precursor substance; and a photocatalytic module for generating ultraviolet light of a specific wavelength and irradiating the precursor substance, which then reacts to produce a first medium. The precursor substance is a substance capable of generating hydroxyl radicals, such as hydrogen peroxide, ozone, or water vapor. The precursor injection module may include a pump, a sprayer, or a pneumatic injector, which delivers the precursor substance into the photocatalytic reaction chamber for reaction. The photocatalytic module may include an ultraviolet lamp and a photocatalyst (such as titanium dioxide), where ultraviolet light of a specific wavelength excites the reaction of the precursor substance. For example, ultraviolet light irradiates the precursor substance, causing a photocatalytic reaction on the catalyst surface to generate hydroxyl radical gas or aerosol. This hydroxyl generator, through photocatalysis, can also produce a gaseous first medium, which is beneficial for sufficient contact with clothing. Furthermore, the electrostatic suppression process of this hydroxyl generator is suitable for simultaneous operation with the clothing drying process, minimizing its impact on the drying process.

[0081] In one embodiment, a circulation system is used to circulate a first medium and a second medium for drying clothes into the first container containing the clothes during the drying process. This allows the circulation system to be used simultaneously for material circulation during the drying process and for material circulation during the electrostatic suppression process, improving the efficiency of the circulation system and saving equipment costs and energy consumption.

[0082] In one embodiment, the garment processing equipment further includes a control unit for controlling the operation or shutdown of various components of the garment processing equipment to implement an electrostatic suppression program or other processing procedures. For example, when a user selects and starts the "drying + static elimination" program, the control unit first controls the drying module and circulation system to start drying the garments. When the temperature and humidity of the first container meet a first preset condition, the control unit controls the hydroxyl generator to operate, initiating the electrostatic suppression process. When the electrostatic state of the garments meets a second preset condition, the control unit controls the hydroxyl generator to stop operating. When the duration of the drying program reaches a set time, the control unit controls the drying module and circulation system to stop operating, thus ending the "drying + static elimination" program.

[0083] This disclosure also provides a computer program product. The computer program product includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor (such as a control unit), implements the above-described method.

[0084] In one implementation, the computer program product can be a tangible product, such as a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program. The readable storage medium can be based on electrical, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or other signals, and includes, but is not limited to: RAM, ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), etc. For example, the computer program product can be a non-volatile storage medium storing a computer program, such as a read-only memory (ROM) or NAND flash memory.

[0085] In one implementation, the computer program product can be an intangible product. For example, the computer program product can be a virtual digital product, such as an executable file or installation package containing a computer program.

[0086] Computer program code can be written in one or more programming languages. Examples of programming languages ​​include C, Java, and C++. Program code can execute entirely on the user's computing device, partially on the user's computing device, or as a standalone software package. It can also execute partially on the user's computing device and partially on a remote computing device, or entirely on a remote computing device or server. In cases involving remote computing devices, the remote computing device can be connected to the user's computing device via any type of network, such as a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or it can be connected to an external computing device (e.g., via an internet connection provided by a mobile network operator).

[0087] Computer programs can be carried or transmitted via signals such as electrical, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, and infrared rays. Electronic devices can convert the signals carrying computer programs into digital signals, thereby running the computer programs. When a computer program runs on an electronic device, its code is used to cause the electronic device to execute (more specifically, to be executed by the processor of the electronic device) the method steps of various embodiments of this disclosure, such as... Figure 2 or Figure 3 The method shown.

[0088] Implementing the above method steps through a computer program has the following technical effects: using a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals to suppress static electricity in clothing eliminates the need to introduce additional chemical substances, avoids problems such as skin allergies caused by chemical residues, and the static electricity suppression process is environmentally friendly.

[0089] Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure also provide an electronic device. This electronic device can be the aforementioned garment processing device or an external device for controlling the garment processing device (such as a mobile phone, personal computer, etc., connected and controlled via Bluetooth, wireless LAN, etc.). The electronic device includes a processor and a memory. The memory stores executable instructions for the processor, such as computer programs. The processor executes these executable instructions to implement the method steps of the various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure.

[0090] The following is for reference. Figure 4 The electronic device is illustrated by way of a general-purpose computing device. It should be understood that... Figure 4 The electronic device 400 shown is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting the functionality and scope of use of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0091] like Figure 4 As shown, the electronic device 400 may include: a processor 410, a memory 420, a bus 430, an I / O (input / output) interface 440, and a network adapter 450.

[0092] Memory 420 may include volatile memory, such as RAM 421 and cache unit 422, and may also include non-volatile memory, such as ROM 423. Memory 420 may also include one or more program modules 424, including but not limited to: operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules, and program data. Each or some combination of these examples may include an implementation of a network environment. For example, program module 424 may include the modules in the above-described apparatus.

[0093] Processor 410 may include one or more processing units, such as: application processor (AP), modem processor, graphics processing unit (GPU), image signal processor (ISP), controller, encoder, decoder, digital signal processor (DSP), baseband processor and / or neural network processing unit (NPU), etc. In one embodiment, processor 410 may include the aforementioned control unit.

[0094] The processor 410 can be used to execute executable instructions stored in the memory 420 to perform method steps of various embodiments of this disclosure, such as... Figure 2 or Figure 3 The method.

[0095] By executing the above method steps through processor 410, the following technical effects are achieved: static electricity suppression of clothing is achieved by using a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals, without the need to introduce additional chemical substances, thus avoiding problems such as skin allergies caused by chemical residues, and the static electricity suppression process is environmentally friendly.

[0096] Bus 430 is used to connect different components of electronic device 400 and may include a data bus, an address bus and a control bus.

[0097] Electronic device 400 can communicate with one or more external devices 500 (such as keyboard, mouse, external controller, etc.) through I / O interface 440.

[0098] Electronic device 400 can communicate with one or more networks via network adapter 450. For example, network adapter 450 can provide mobile communication solutions such as 3G / 4G / 5G, or wireless communication solutions such as wireless LAN, Bluetooth, and near-field communication. Network adapter 450 can communicate with other modules of electronic device 400 via bus 430.

[0099] although Figure 4 Other hardware and / or software modules, including but not limited to: displays, microcode, device drivers, redundant processors, external disk drive arrays, RAID (Redundant Arrays of Independent Disks) systems, tape drives, and data backup storage systems, may also be configured in electronic device 400.

[0100] As can be seen from the above, the technical solutions disclosed herein can be implemented as methods, apparatus, systems, computer program products, storage media, electronic devices, etc. Those skilled in the art will understand that various aspects of this disclosure can be specifically implemented in the following forms: a completely hardware implementation, a completely software implementation (including firmware, microcode, etc.), or an implementation combining hardware and software aspects, which may be referred to as "circuit," "module," or "system," respectively.

[0101] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific methods, steps, or structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. Those skilled in the art will readily conceive of other embodiments based on the specific implementations provided in this disclosure. Therefore, the specific implementations provided in this disclosure are merely exemplary, and the scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the claims, and should cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary technical means in the art not disclosed in this disclosure.

Claims

1. A method for suppressing static electricity, characterized in that, Applied to garment processing equipment, the garment processing equipment including a first container, a hydroxyl generator, and a circulation system, the method includes: The hydroxyl generator is controlled to produce a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals; the first medium is a gas, a liquid, or a gas-liquid mixture. The circulation system is controlled to operate such that the first medium is delivered to the first container containing the clothing in order to suppress static electricity on the clothing.

2. The electrostatic suppression method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hydroxyl generator includes an electrolysis module and a heater; controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator to generate a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals includes: The electrolysis module is controlled to electrolyze water to produce a solution containing hydroxyl radicals; The heater is controlled to heat the solution containing hydroxyl radicals to form the first medium.

3. The electrostatic suppression method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hydroxyl generator includes a precursor injection module and a photocatalytic module; controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator to generate a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals includes: The precursor injection module is controlled to inject the precursor material; The photocatalytic module is controlled to generate ultraviolet light of a specific wavelength and irradiate the precursor material, causing the precursor material to react and produce the first medium.

4. The electrostatic suppression method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hydroxyl generator includes an electrolysis module; controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator to generate a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals includes: The electrolysis module is controlled to electrolyze water to produce a solution containing hydroxyl radicals, which serves as the first medium.

5. The electrostatic suppression method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The garment processing equipment has a garment drying function; the control of the hydroxyl generator to produce a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals includes: During the drying process of clothes in the first container, the hydroxyl generator is controlled to operate, generating a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals.

6. The electrostatic suppression method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The clothing processing equipment is equipped with a humidity sensor for detecting the humidity of the first container; during the drying process of the clothes in the first container, controlling the operation of the hydroxyl generator includes: After the drying program is started in the first container, the hydroxyl generator is controlled to operate in response to the humidity of the first container meeting the first preset condition.

7. The electrostatic suppression method according to claim 5, characterized in that, Controlling the operation of the circulation system to deliver the first medium to the first container containing clothing includes: During the drying process of clothes in the first container, the circulation system is controlled to run, and the first medium and the second medium for drying clothes are introduced into the first container containing clothes.

8. The electrostatic suppression method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: In response to detecting that the electrostatic state of the clothing in the first container meets a second preset condition or that the operating state of the hydroxyl generator meets a third preset condition, the hydroxyl generator is controlled to stop operating; wherein the electrostatic state is detected by an electrostatic sensor configured in the clothing processing equipment.

9. The electrostatic suppression method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clothing processing equipment has a clothing drying function; the hydroxyl generator operates within the first container during the clothing drying process; the method further includes: After the hydroxyl generator is stopped, the drying process continues to be performed on the first container.

10. The electrostatic suppression method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: The power of the hydroxyl generator is controlled based on one or more of the following factors: the load of clothing in the first container, the type of clothing, and the electrostatic state of the clothing; wherein the electrostatic state is detected by an electrostatic sensor configured in the clothing processing equipment.

11. A garment processing device, characterized in that, include: The first container was used to hold clothes; A hydroxyl generator for generating a first medium containing hydroxyl radicals; the first medium is a gas, a liquid, or a gas-liquid mixture. A circulation system is used to deliver the first medium to the first container containing clothing in order to suppress static electricity on the clothing.

12. The garment processing equipment according to claim 11, characterized in that, The hydroxyl generator includes: An electrolysis module is used to electrolyze water to produce a solution containing hydroxyl radicals; A heater is used to heat a solution containing hydroxyl radicals to form the first medium.

13. The garment processing equipment according to claim 12, characterized in that, The garment processing equipment also includes a second container for holding water electrolyzed by the electrolysis module; The circulation system includes a circulation pipeline connecting the second container and the first container, for passing the first medium from the second container into the first container through the circulation pipeline.

14. The garment processing equipment according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first container is an inner bucket, and the second container is an outer bucket, with the inner bucket located inside the outer bucket; the bottom of the outer bucket has a recessed area for holding water electrolyzed by the electrolysis module.

15. The garment processing equipment according to claim 11, characterized in that, The hydroxyl generator includes: Precursor injection module, used for injecting precursor substances; A photocatalytic module is used to generate ultraviolet light of a specific wavelength and irradiate the precursor material, which then reacts to produce the first medium.

16. The garment processing apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that, The circulation system is used to introduce the first medium and the second medium for drying clothes into the first container containing the clothes during the drying process in the first container.

17. A computer program product, comprising a computer program, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

18. An electronic device, characterized in that, Including processor and memory; The memory is used to store executable instructions of the processor; the processor is configured to implement the method of any one of claims 1 to 10 by executing the executable instructions.

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