Ice making equipment control method and device, ice making equipment and medium

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of intelligent control, discloses an ice-making equipment control method and device, ice-making equipment and a medium, and effectively solves the problem of ice collection judgment rigidness caused by clamping stagnation of an ice collision strip, failure of an ice collection mechanism and the like of the existing ice-making equipment by setting dual detection logic of first timing and continuous preset times of ice collection action detection. When the ice collection action is not detected when single ice collection is overtime, the control equipment directly enters next ice making, so that mistaken shutdown and energy waste caused by accidental clamping stagnation are avoided; and when no action exists in continuous preset times of ice collection, an ice collection fault is accurately judged, alarm and background state updating are started, and timely early warning and positioning of the fault are realized. And hardware does not need to be modified, and only through control program logic optimization, the misjudgment rate of equipment is remarkably reduced, the operation continuity is improved, the manual intervention frequency of a user is reduced, the service life of the equipment is prolonged, and the use experience of the user is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of intelligent control technology, specifically to ice-making equipment control methods, devices, ice-making equipment, and media. Background Technology

[0002] Ice makers commonly use an ice-stopping bar (consisting of a position switch connected to a movable structural component) as a component to detect the completion of ice collection and the ice fullness. When ice collection is complete, the ice block falls off the plate, causing the ice-stopping bar to move from top to bottom. This indicates that ice collection is complete and the machine can proceed to the next ice-making cycle. Once the ice storage compartment is full, the ice-stopping bar will be blocked by the ice blocks below, preventing it from moving. This indicates that the ice is full.

[0003] Because the tilt angle and center of gravity of the ice contact bar are difficult to adjust precisely, problems such as abnormal return of the ice contact bar may occur. For example, after ice falls, some loose ice blocks remain on the ice contact bar, causing the ice contact bar to get stuck and unable to return to its normal position to turn on the switch. This can lead to the problem of the refrigerator being incorrectly judged to be full, resulting in equipment shutdown due to misjudgment, high failure rate, and large energy waste, which seriously affects the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a control method, device, ice-making equipment, and medium for ice-making equipment, in order to solve the problems that existing ice-making equipment may experience issues such as the ice strip getting stuck and unable to return to its normal position to turn on the switch due to abnormal return of the ice strip, resulting in false judgments that the ice storage refrigerator is full, leading to equipment shutdown due to false judgment, high failure rate, and large energy waste, which seriously affects the user experience.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a control method for an ice-making device, the ice-making device comprising: an ice-collecting detection component, wherein during normal ice-collecting, when an ice block falls off, the ice-collecting detection component is activated to perform an ice-collecting action, causing the ice-collecting detection component to switch from an on state to an off state; after the ice block falls off, the ice-collecting detection component performs a reset action, switching from the off state to an on state; the method comprising: When the ice-making equipment finishes making ice and enters the ice-collecting process, the first timing begins, and the execution action of the ice-collecting detection component is detected. In response to the first timing period reaching the preset ice collection time, and when the ice collection detection component has not performed an ice collection action in the current ice collection process, the ice-making device is controlled to exit the ice collection process and start the next ice-making process, and the process returns to the step of starting the first timing when the ice-making device has completed ice making and entered the ice collection process, and detecting the dynamic state of the ice collection detection component. In response to the first timing period reaching the preset ice collection time, and the ice collection detection component failing to perform an ice collection action during a preset number of consecutive ice collection processes, the ice-making equipment is determined to be in an ice collection fault state. The ice-making equipment is then controlled to stop ice making and a fault alarm is triggered.

[0006] This invention effectively solves the problem of rigid ice-collecting judgment caused by ice strip jamming and ice-collecting mechanism failure in existing ice-making equipment by setting a dual detection logic of a first timer and a continuous preset number of ice-collecting actions. When no ice-collecting action is detected within a single ice-collecting timeout, the control equipment directly enters the next ice-making cycle, avoiding accidental shutdowns and energy waste caused by occasional jamming. When no ice-collecting action is detected for a continuous preset number of cycles, an ice-collecting fault is accurately determined, and an alarm and background status update are initiated, achieving timely early warning and location of the fault. Furthermore, without modifying the hardware, only through optimization of the control program logic, the equipment's false judgment rate is significantly reduced, operational continuity is improved, the frequency of manual user intervention is reduced, the equipment's service life is extended, and the user experience is enhanced.

[0007] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: In response to the fact that the first timing period has not reached the preset ice collection time, and the ice collection detection component has performed the ice collection action in the current ice collection process, the ice making device is controlled to exit the ice collection process and start the second timing. If the second timing period has not reached the preset reset waiting period, and the ice collection detection component is detected to perform a reset action, the second timing is cleared, and the ice-making equipment is controlled to start the next ice-making cycle. Then, the process returns to the step of starting the first timing when the ice-making equipment has completed ice making and entered the ice collection process, and detecting the dynamic state of the ice collection detection component.

[0008] This invention solves the problem of temporary abnormal return of the ice contact bar caused by residual ice fragments by setting a second timing and reset action in conjunction. After the ice collection action is triggered, a reset waiting window is initiated. When the reset action is detected, it is determined that normal ice collection is complete and the next round of ice making begins, avoiding accidental start-up when ice collection is not stable. Simultaneously, the design of clearing the timing and re-looping effectively avoids process disruptions caused by instantaneous fluctuations in the ice contact bar, further improving the stability and reliability of the ice making process, ensuring ice making efficiency while reducing ineffective energy consumption.

[0009] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: Once the preset reset waiting time is reached after the second timing period, it is determined that the ice-making device is in a full ice state, and the ice-making device is controlled to stop making ice.

[0010] This invention determines that the ice is full and stops ice making when the second timer reaches a preset reset waiting time, solving the problem of false full-ice judgment caused by abnormal return of the ice contact bar in the prior art. By controlling the threshold of the preset reset waiting time, it avoids false full-ice judgment caused by the brief retention of ice on the ice contact bar due to scattered ice, ensuring that ice making only stops when the ice contact bar is continuously disconnected for a set time. This ensures full utilization of the ice storage capacity of the refrigerator, prevents premature shutdown due to false full-ice judgment, reduces energy waste and the inconvenience of frequent ice removal for users, and balances equipment operating efficiency and user experience.

[0011] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: When the ice-making equipment is in the full ice state, in response to the detection that the ice-collecting detection component has performed a reset action, the ice-making equipment is controlled to start the next ice-making cycle, and the process returns to the step of starting the first timer and detecting the dynamic state of the ice-collecting detection component when the ice-making equipment has completed ice-making and entered the ice-collecting process.

[0012] This invention achieves dynamic adaptive adjustment of the ice-full state by triggering a restart through a reset action. When the ice-collection detection component is detected to have reset when the ice is full, it indicates that the user has removed ice, and the device can immediately restart the ice-making process without manual intervention. This solves the cumbersome operation of manually resetting traditional ice-making equipment when it is full, while also avoiding the problem of insufficient ice storage caused by melting ice blocks after the ice is full. It ensures that the ice storage refrigerator always has a sufficient amount of ice, improves user convenience, and reduces ineffective standby time and energy consumption by accurately responding to the reset signal.

[0013] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: When the ice-making equipment is in the ice-collecting fault state or the ice-full state, in response to detecting that the cumulative ice-collecting time of the ice-making equipment has reached the preset ice-collecting time, the ice-making equipment is controlled to start the next ice-making cycle, and the process returns to the step of starting the first timing when the ice-making equipment has completed ice-making and entered the ice-collecting process, and detecting the dynamic status of the ice-collecting detection component.

[0014] This invention provides a forced restart mechanism for ice collection failures or when the ice is full by setting a cumulative ice collection time threshold. When the device is in an ice collection failure or full state, if the cumulative ice collection time reaches the preset value, the next ice making cycle will start regardless of whether the ice collection detection component has been reset. This effectively solves the problem of long-term device downtime caused by damage or jamming of the ice collection detection component. Even if the ice strip cannot operate normally, the user's ice collection operation can trigger an ice making restart, preventing the device from being paralyzed due to a single component failure, improving the device's fault tolerance and practicality, and reducing the frequency of user repairs and user inconvenience.

[0015] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: When the ice-making equipment is in the ice-collecting fault state or the ice-full state for a period of time that reaches the preset ice storage time, the ice-making equipment is controlled to start the next ice-making cycle, and the process returns to the step of starting the first timing when the ice-making equipment has completed ice-making and entered the ice-collecting process, and detecting the dynamic status of the ice-collecting detection component.

[0016] This invention addresses the limitation of refrigerators lacking refrigeration functionality by incorporating an automatic restart logic based on a preset ice storage time. Since the refrigerator relies solely on insulation material, the ice will gradually melt. If the refrigerator remains full or malfunctions during the preset ice storage time, the automatic restart of the ice-making process replenishes the melted ice, preventing situations where users find no ice available. Furthermore, no manual operation is required; the ice-making process adaptively replenishes ice through time threshold control, solving the long-term failure problem caused by insulation deficiencies while ensuring continuous and sufficient ice storage, thus improving equipment reliability and user experience.

[0017] In one optional implementation, detecting the execution action of the ice-collecting detection component includes: The on / off status of the ice collection detection component is detected; In response to detecting that the ice collection detection component has switched from an on state to an off state, it is determined that the action performed by the ice collection detection component is an ice collection action; In response to detecting that the ice collection detection component has switched from a disconnected state to an on state, the action performed by the ice collection detection component is determined to be a reset action.

[0018] This invention defines ice-collecting and reset actions by detecting the switching between the on and off states of the ice-collecting detection component, solving the problem of inaccurate judgment caused by relying solely on level state detection in existing technologies. Based on the state-switching determination method, interference from instantaneous level fluctuations is eliminated, ensuring accurate and reliable detection of ice-collecting and reset actions. This improves the stability and accuracy of the entire control method, reducing equipment misjudgments and shutdowns caused by detection errors from the source, and ensuring the efficient and orderly operation of the ice-making process.

[0019] Secondly, the present invention provides a control device for an ice-making device, the ice-making device comprising: an ice-collecting detection component, wherein during normal ice-collecting process, when an ice block falls off, the ice-collecting detection component is activated to perform an ice-collecting action, causing the ice-collecting detection component to switch from an on state to an off state; after the ice block falls off, the ice-collecting detection component performs a reset action, switching from the off state to an on state; the device comprises: The first processing module is used to start a first timer when the ice-making equipment finishes making ice and enters the ice-collecting process, and to detect the execution action of the ice-collecting detection component. The second processing module is used to respond to the first timing duration reaching the preset ice collection duration, and the ice collection detection component not performing an ice collection action in the current ice collection process, to control the ice-making device to exit the ice collection process and start the next ice-making process, and return to the steps of starting the first timing when the ice-making device completes ice making and enters the ice collection process, and detecting the dynamic state of the ice collection detection component. The third processing module is used to determine that the ice-making equipment is in an ice-collecting fault state when the first timing duration reaches the preset ice-collecting duration and the ice-collecting detection component has not performed an ice-collecting action in the ice-collecting process for a preset number of consecutive times, control the ice-making equipment to stop making ice, and issue a fault alarm.

[0020] Thirdly, the present invention provides an ice-making device, the ice-making device comprising: an ice-collecting detection component, wherein during normal ice-collecting process, when an ice block falls off, the ice-collecting detection component is activated to perform an ice-collecting action, causing the ice-collecting detection component to switch from an on state to an off state; after the ice block falls off, the ice-collecting detection component performs a reset action, switching from the off state to an on state; the ice-making device further comprises: A controller includes a memory and a processor, which are communicatively connected to each other. The memory stores computer instructions, and the processor executes the computer instructions to perform the method provided in the first aspect or any corresponding embodiment described above.

[0021] In one alternative implementation, the ice-making device is an ice maker.

[0022] Fourthly, the present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for causing a computer to perform the method provided in the first aspect or any corresponding embodiment thereof. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments or related technologies of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an ice-making device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2This is a schematic flowchart of a first method for controlling an ice-making device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a second process for controlling an ice-making device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the specific working process of an ice-making device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a structural block diagram of an ice-making equipment control device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the controller of the ice-making device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0025] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0026] It is understood that before using the technical solutions disclosed in the various embodiments of the present invention, users should be informed of the types, scope of use, and usage scenarios of the personal information involved in the present invention and their authorization should be obtained in accordance with relevant laws and regulations through appropriate means.

[0027] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of an ice-making device, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the ice-making equipment includes: an ice-collecting detection component 101. During normal ice-collecting, when ice blocks fall off, the ice-collecting detection component 101 performs an ice-collecting action, causing it to switch from an on state to an off state. After the ice blocks fall off, the ice-collecting detection component 101 performs a reset action, switching from an off state to an on state. The ice-making equipment also includes: a controller 102 for executing an ice-making equipment control method to control the operation of the ice-making equipment. The detailed process of the controller 102 executing the ice-making equipment control method is described in the relevant description of the method embodiment below, and will not be repeated here.

[0029] For example, the ice collection detection component 101 is an ice contact bar (consisting of a position switch connected to a movable structural member), which serves as a component for detecting the completion of ice collection and the detection of full ice.

[0030] The working state and operation of the ice-blocking strip provided in this embodiment are explained below: 1. Ice contact strip connected: The ice contact strip detection port detects a high-level signal for 400ms continuously.

[0031] 2. Ice contact strip disconnection: The ice contact strip detection port detects a low-level signal for 400ms continuously.

[0032] 3. Ice removal action of the ice contact bar: The ice contact bar switches from the on state to the off state.

[0033] 4. Reset action of the ice contact bar: The ice contact bar switches from the off state to the on state.

[0034] Specifically, the aforementioned ice-making equipment is an ice maker, and the controller 102 is used for controlling the ice-making equipment. This method can be applied to automatic ice-making equipment such as household and commercial ice makers. Further, the aforementioned ice-making equipment also includes: a storage refrigerator for storing ice blocks after ice making; and components such as a compressor refrigeration system, a water pump, and an evaporator. In practical applications, after the ice maker is powered on, the entire machine is initialized, and the compressor is started for pre-cooling. Then, the current ice strip status is detected. If the machine is not full of ice or there is an ice collection failure, the compressor refrigeration system, water pump, evaporator, and other components are started to enter the ice-making stage. After ice making begins, the current ice layer thickness is first detected based on the conduction status of the ice thickness sensor, and the previous ice making process is checked to avoid duplicate ice making. Then the ice maker enters the ice-making process. After the ice thickness sensor is activated, ice making is complete. The ice collection process begins, where a hot air valve rapidly raises the surface temperature of the ice trays, causing the ice to melt and fall into the storage refrigerator. When the ice collection stage begins, the detached ice blocks cause the ice-blocking strip to move from top to bottom, indicating that ice collection is complete and the next ice-making cycle can begin. Once the refrigerator is full of ice, the ice-blocking strip will be blocked by the ice blocks below, preventing it from moving; this indicates that the refrigerator is full. The structure and working principle of the ice-blocking strip are existing technology and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0035] Because the tilt angle and center of gravity of the ice contact bar are difficult to adjust precisely, problems such as abnormal return of the ice contact bar may occur. For example, after ice falls, some loose ice blocks remain on the ice contact bar, causing the ice contact bar to get stuck and unable to return to its normal position to turn on the switch. This can lead to the problem of the refrigerator being incorrectly judged to be full, resulting in equipment shutdown due to misjudgment, high failure rate, and large energy waste, which seriously affects the user experience.

[0036] Based on the aforementioned problems, this embodiment addresses the issues of ice-making equipment caused by imperfect ice-block detection logic, lack of multi-dimensional time threshold control, and environmental adaptability mechanisms. These problems lead to ice-collecting stagnation, failure to handle full ice conditions, high energy waste, high equipment failure rates, and long-term failures due to insulation defects in the storage refrigerator. By transforming hardware defects into software-solvable logical problems, intelligent differentiation and automatic repair of full ice conditions are achieved without modifying the hardware. This results in intelligent automation, high reliability, and energy-efficient operation of the ice-making process. It effectively solves the problem of ice machines stagnating when ice is not removed or in a malfunctioning state, significantly improving equipment operating efficiency, reducing failure rates, decreasing the probability of manual user intervention, and extending equipment lifespan. The overall ice-making process achieves adaptive optimization, balancing user experience and equipment stability.

[0037] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an embodiment of a control method for an ice-making device is provided. It should be noted that the steps shown in the flowchart in the accompanying drawings can be executed in a computer system such as a set of computer-executable instructions. Furthermore, although a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases, the steps shown or described may be executed in a different order than that shown here.

[0038] This embodiment provides a control method for an ice-making device, which can be used in the controller of the aforementioned ice-making device, such as a microcontroller or MCU. Figure 2 This is a flowchart of an ice-making equipment control method according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the process includes the following steps: Step S201: When the ice-making equipment finishes making ice and enters the ice-collecting process, start the first timing and detect the execution action of the ice-collecting detection component.

[0039] Specifically, after the ice-making equipment starts making ice, it first detects the current ice thickness based on the conduction status of the ice thickness sensor. The ice thickness sensor will conduct when the ice thickness reaches the set thickness. After detecting the conduction of the ice thickness sensor, it is determined that ice making is complete, and the ice-making equipment enters the ice-collecting stage. Specifically, after entering the ice-collecting process, a hot air valve is used to rapidly raise the surface temperature of the ice grid, causing the ice to melt and fall off. The working principle and process of the ice thickness sensor and the hot air valve are existing technologies for ice-making equipment and will not be elaborated here. The aforementioned first timing is the duration of the ice-collecting process. Specifically, the execution action of the ice-collecting detection component can be determined by detecting the on and off states of the ice-collecting detection component. For example, when the ice-collecting detection component switches from the on state to the off state, the execution action is the ice-collecting action; when the ice-collecting detection component switches from the off state to the on state, the execution action is the reset action.

[0040] In step S202, in response to the first timing duration reaching the preset ice collection duration, and the ice collection detection component not performing an ice collection action in the current ice collection process, the ice-making equipment is controlled to exit the ice collection process and start the next ice-making cycle, and the process returns to step S201.

[0041] Specifically, the preset ice collection time can be determined experimentally as the maximum time required to complete one ice collection cycle. For example, the preset ice collection time is 9 minutes. If the ice collection detection component does not perform the ice collection action within 9 minutes, the possible reasons are that the ice collection detection component is blocked by loose ice or there is a malfunction in the ice collection detection component. In this case, in order to ensure the working efficiency of the ice-making equipment and avoid the equipment from falsely judging a shutdown, the ice-making equipment is directly controlled to exit the ice collection process and start the next ice-making cycle. The execution action of the ice collection detection component after the ice-making is completed is continuously detected to eliminate interference from falsely judging a shutdown.

[0042] In step S203, in response to the first timing duration reaching the preset ice collection time and the ice collection detection component failing to perform ice collection action in a preset number of consecutive ice collection processes, the ice-making equipment is determined to be in an ice collection fault state, the ice-making equipment is controlled to stop ice making, and a fault alarm is triggered.

[0043] The preset number of times is flexibly set according to the fault detection accuracy and service life requirements of the ice-making equipment to eliminate interference from equipment misjudgment shutdown. For example, the preset number of times is 2 or 3 times. If the ice collection detection component fails to perform the ice collection action in 2 or 3 consecutive ice collection processes, it is determined that the ice-making equipment has indeed experienced an ice collection failure. The cause of the failure may include: ice block jamming, ice collection mechanism failure, ice contact strip damage, etc. At this time, the ice-making equipment is promptly controlled to stop ice making, and a fault alarm is issued through voice, light, etc., to remind the user to troubleshoot and repair the fault.

[0044] This embodiment effectively solves the problem of rigid ice-collecting judgment caused by ice strip jamming and ice-collecting mechanism failure in existing ice-making equipment by setting a dual detection logic of first timing and continuous preset number of ice-collecting actions. When no ice-collecting action is detected within a single ice-collecting timeout, the control equipment directly enters the next ice-making cycle, avoiding accidental shutdowns and energy waste caused by occasional jamming. When no ice-collecting action is detected for a consecutive preset number of cycles, an ice-collecting fault is accurately determined, and an alarm and background status update are initiated, achieving timely early warning and location of the fault. Moreover, no hardware modifications are required; only the control program logic is optimized, significantly reducing the equipment's false judgment rate, improving operational continuity, reducing the frequency of manual user intervention, extending equipment lifespan, and enhancing the user experience.

[0045] This embodiment provides a control method for an ice-making device, which can be used in the controller of the aforementioned ice-making device, such as a microcontroller or MCU. Figure 3 This is a flowchart of an ice-making equipment control method according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the process includes the following steps: Step S301: When the ice-making equipment finishes making ice and enters the ice-collecting process, start the first timing and detect the execution action of the ice-collecting detection component.

[0046] Specifically, the detection of the execution action of the ice collection detection component in step S301 above includes: Step a1: Detect the connection status of the ice collection detection component.

[0047] Step a2: In response to the detection that the ice-collecting detection component has switched from the on state to the off state, it is determined that the action performed by the ice-collecting detection component is an ice-collecting action.

[0048] Step a3: In response to the detection that the ice collection detection component has switched from the off state to the on state, it is determined that the execution action of the ice collection detection component is a reset action.

[0049] This embodiment defines ice-collecting and reset actions by detecting the switching between the on and off states of the ice-collecting detection component, solving the problem of inaccurate judgment caused by relying solely on level state detection in existing technologies. Based on the state-switching determination method, interference from instantaneous level fluctuations is eliminated, ensuring accurate and reliable detection of ice-collecting and reset actions. This improves the stability and accuracy of the entire control method, reducing equipment misjudgments and shutdowns caused by detection errors from the source, and ensuring the efficient and orderly operation of the ice-making process.

[0050] Step S302: In response to the first timing period reaching the preset ice-collecting time, and the ice-collecting detection component not performing an ice-collecting action in the current ice-collecting process, the ice-making equipment is controlled to exit the ice-collecting process and begin the next ice-making cycle, and the process returns to step S301. See below for details. Figure 2 The relevant descriptions of step S202 shown will not be repeated here.

[0051] Step S303: In response to the first timing period reaching the preset ice-collecting time, and the ice-collecting detection component failing to perform an ice-collecting action during a preset number of consecutive ice-collecting processes, the ice-making equipment is determined to be in an ice-collecting fault state. The ice-making equipment is then controlled to stop ice making and a fault alarm is triggered. For details, please refer to... Figure 2 The relevant descriptions of step S203 shown will not be repeated here.

[0052] In step S304, in response to the fact that the first timing duration has not reached the preset ice collection duration, and the ice collection detection component has performed the ice collection action in the current ice collection process, the ice making equipment is controlled to exit the ice collection process and start the second timing.

[0053] Specifically, if the ice-collecting detection component of the ice-making equipment performs the ice-collecting action normally within 9 minutes, it indicates that the ice-collecting is complete, and the ice-making equipment can be controlled to exit the ice-collecting process. The aforementioned second timing is the timing for the ice-making equipment to exit the ice-collecting process and enter the waiting period for the ice-collecting detection component to perform the reset action.

[0054] In step S305, if the ice collection detection component is detected to perform a reset action before the second timing duration reaches the preset reset waiting time, the second timing is cleared, and the ice-making equipment is controlled to start the next ice-making cycle, returning to step S301.

[0055] The preset reset waiting time is the longest time for the ice-collecting detection component, i.e., the ice-collision strip, to perform a reset action after the ice-collecting action is completed normally. For example, the preset reset waiting time is 30 seconds. If the ice-collision strip performs a reset action within 30 seconds after the ice-collecting action is completed normally, it means that the ice-collision strip can be reset normally, the ice-collecting is completed normally, the second timer can be cleared, and the ice-making equipment can be controlled to enter the next ice-making process.

[0056] This embodiment solves the problem of temporary abnormal return of the ice contact bar caused by residual ice fragments by setting a second timing and reset action in conjunction. After the ice collection action is triggered, a reset waiting window is started. When the reset action is detected, it is determined that normal ice collection is completed and the next round of ice making is started, avoiding accidental start when ice collection is not stable. At the same time, by clearing the timing and restarting the cycle, the process disorder caused by the instantaneous fluctuation of the ice contact bar is effectively avoided, further improving the stability and reliability of the ice making process, ensuring ice making efficiency while reducing unnecessary energy consumption.

[0057] Step S306: After the second timing period reaches the preset reset waiting time, it is determined that the ice-making equipment is in a full ice state, and the ice-making equipment is controlled to stop making ice.

[0058] Specifically, if the ice-stop bar does not reset within 30 seconds after the ice collection process is completed normally, it indicates that the ice storage refrigerator is full, and the ice-stop bar is blocked by the ice below, preventing it from resetting. This indicates that the ice-making equipment is in a full state, and the equipment will stop making ice. Furthermore, if the ice-stop bar only resets briefly once within 30 seconds but then disconnects again, this should be considered an "abnormal fluctuation." It will not immediately enter a full state; it must remain disconnected for a cumulative 30 seconds without resetting before being considered full.

[0059] This embodiment determines the ice is full and stops ice making when the second timer reaches the preset reset waiting time, solving the problem of false full-ice judgment caused by abnormal return of the ice contact bar in the prior art. By controlling the threshold of the preset reset waiting time, false full-ice judgments caused by the brief retention of ice on the ice contact bar due to scattered ice are avoided. It ensures that ice making only stops when the ice contact bar is continuously disconnected for the set time. This not only ensures full utilization of the ice storage capacity of the refrigerator, but also prevents premature shutdown due to false full-ice judgment, reduces energy waste and the inconvenience of frequent ice removal for users, and balances equipment operating efficiency and user experience.

[0060] In step S307, when the ice-making equipment is full of ice, in response to the detection of the ice collection detection component performing a reset action, the ice-making equipment is controlled to start the next ice-making cycle, and the process returns to step S301.

[0061] Specifically, if the ice-making equipment resets when it is full, it indicates that the ice storage compartment has less ice and the equipment is not full. The equipment can then be controlled to make ice again to increase the ice capacity. After ice making is complete, the user can check the ice level display to see the amount of ice in the compartment. The ice is then dispersed by the ice-stirring motor and carried to the ice outlet for automatic dispensing.

[0062] This embodiment triggers a restart via a reset action when the ice is full, achieving dynamic adaptive adjustment of the ice-full state. When the reset action of the ice-collecting detection component is detected when the ice is full, it indicates that the user has taken ice, and the equipment can immediately restart the ice-making process without manual intervention. This solves the cumbersome operation of manually resetting traditional ice-making equipment when the ice is full, while also avoiding the problem of insufficient ice storage caused by melting ice blocks after the ice is full. It ensures that the ice storage refrigerator always maintains a sufficient amount of ice, improves user convenience, and reduces ineffective standby time and energy consumption by accurately responding to the reset signal.

[0063] In step S308, when the ice-making equipment is in an ice-collecting fault state or an ice-full state, in response to detecting that the cumulative ice-collecting time of the ice-making equipment has reached the preset ice-collecting time, the ice-making equipment is controlled to start the next ice-making cycle, and the process returns to step S301.

[0064] The preset ice-taking time can be flexibly set according to the amount of ice produced by the ice-making equipment in a single batch. For example, the preset ice-taking time is 47 seconds. When the user's cumulative ice-taking time reaches 47 seconds, it means that the refrigerator can still store the amount of ice produced in one batch. In order to avoid long-term shutdown of the ice-making equipment and improve the utilization rate of the ice-making equipment, the ice-making equipment can be directly controlled to produce ice in a single batch to meet the user's ice demand.

[0065] This embodiment provides a forced restart mechanism for ice collection failures or when the ice is full by setting a cumulative ice collection time threshold. When the device is in an ice collection failure or full state, if the cumulative ice collection time reaches the preset value, the next ice making cycle will start regardless of whether the ice collection detection component is reset. This effectively solves the problem of long-term equipment downtime caused by damage or jamming of the ice collection detection component. Even if the ice strip cannot operate normally, the user's ice collection operation can trigger an ice making restart, preventing the device from being paralyzed due to a single component failure, improving the fault tolerance and practicality of the device, and reducing the frequency of user repairs and user inconvenience.

[0066] Step S309: When the ice-making equipment is in an ice-collecting fault state or the ice-full state for a period of time reaches the preset ice storage time, control the ice-making equipment to start the next ice-making cycle and return to step S301.

[0067] Specifically, the preset ice storage time is such that, since the ice storage refrigerator does not have a refrigeration function and relies solely on structural materials for insulation, it cannot completely isolate heat. Therefore, after the preset ice storage time, most of the ice will melt, at which point the ice storage refrigerator can hold the amount of ice needed for another ice-making cycle. For example, the preset ice storage time is 8 hours. Therefore, if the refrigerator remains full for 8 consecutive hours or experiences an ice-receiving failure, it will enter the next ice-making process. For example, the specific working process of the ice-making equipment is as follows: Figure 4 As shown.

[0068] This embodiment addresses the limitation of the ice storage refrigerator, which lacks a refrigeration function, by incorporating an automatic restart logic for a preset ice storage time. Since the refrigerator relies solely on insulation material, the ice will gradually melt. If the refrigerator remains full or malfunctions during the preset ice storage time, the automatic restart of the ice-making process replenishes the melted ice, preventing situations where users find no ice available. Furthermore, no manual operation is required; the ice-making process adaptively replenishes ice through time threshold control, solving the long-term failure problem caused by insulation deficiencies while ensuring continuous and sufficient ice storage, thus improving equipment reliability and user experience.

[0069] This embodiment also provides an ice-making equipment control device for implementing the above embodiments and preferred embodiments; details already described will not be repeated. As used below, the term "module" can refer to a combination of software and / or hardware that performs a predetermined function. Although the device described in the following embodiments is preferably implemented in software, hardware implementation, or a combination of software and hardware, is also possible and contemplated.

[0070] This embodiment provides a control device for an ice-making equipment, such as... Figure 5 As shown, it includes: The first processing module 501 is used to start the first timing when the ice-making equipment finishes making ice and enters the ice-collecting process, and to detect the execution action of the ice-collecting detection component. The second processing module 502 is used to respond to the first timing duration reaching the preset ice collection duration, and when the ice collection detection component does not perform an ice collection action in the current ice collection process, to control the ice making equipment to exit the ice collection process and start the next ice making, and return to the steps of starting the first timing and detecting the dynamic state of the ice collection detection component when the ice making equipment completes ice making and enters the ice collection process. The third processing module 503 is used to determine that the ice-making equipment is in an ice-collecting fault state when the first timing duration reaches the preset ice-collecting duration and the ice-collecting detection component has not performed the ice-collecting action in the ice-collecting process for a preset number of consecutive times, control the ice-making equipment to stop making ice, and issue a fault alarm.

[0071] In some optional embodiments, the above-mentioned ice-making equipment control device further includes: The fourth processing module is used to respond to the fact that the first timing duration has not reached the preset ice collection duration, and the ice collection detection component has performed the ice collection action in the current ice collection process, to control the ice making equipment to exit the ice collection process and start the second timing. The fifth processing module is used to clear the second timer if the ice collection detection component performs a reset action when the second timer duration has not reached the preset reset waiting time, and to control the ice making equipment to start the next ice making cycle. It then returns to the steps of starting the first timer and detecting the dynamic status of the ice collection detection component when the ice making equipment has completed ice making and entered the ice collection process.

[0072] In some optional embodiments, the above-mentioned ice-making equipment control device further includes: The sixth processing module is used to determine that the ice-making equipment is in a full ice state when the preset reset waiting time is reached after the second timing period, and to control the ice-making equipment to stop making ice.

[0073] In some optional embodiments, the above-mentioned ice-making equipment control device further includes: The seventh processing module is used to control the ice-making equipment to start the next ice-making cycle in response to the detection of the ice-collecting detection component when the ice-making equipment is full of ice, and to return to the steps of starting the first timer and detecting the dynamic status of the ice-collecting detection component when the ice-making equipment has completed ice making and entered the ice-collecting process.

[0074] In some optional embodiments, the above-mentioned ice-making equipment control device further includes: The eighth processing module is used to respond to the detection that the cumulative ice-taking time of the ice-making equipment has reached the preset ice-taking time when the ice-making equipment is in an ice-collecting fault state or an ice-full state, control the ice-making equipment to start the next ice-making cycle, and return to the steps of starting the first timing when the ice-making equipment has completed ice-making and entered the ice-collecting process, and detecting the dynamic status of the ice-collecting detection component.

[0075] In some optional embodiments, the above-mentioned ice-making equipment control device further includes: The ninth processing module is used to control the ice-making equipment to start the next ice-making cycle when the ice-making equipment is in an ice-collecting fault state or the ice-full state has reached the preset ice storage time. It also returns to the step of starting the first timer when the ice-making equipment has completed ice-making and entered the ice-collecting process, and detecting the dynamic status of the ice-collecting detection component.

[0076] In some optional implementations, the first processing module 501 includes: The first processing unit is used to detect the connection status of the ice collection detection component; The second processing unit is used to determine that the action performed by the ice-collecting detection component is an ice-collecting action in response to the detection that the ice-collecting detection component has switched from the on state to the off state. The third processing unit is used to determine that the action performed by the ice-collecting detection component is a reset action in response to the detection that the ice-collecting detection component has switched from a disconnected state to a connected state.

[0077] The ice-making equipment control device provided in this embodiment of the invention can execute the ice-making equipment control method provided in any embodiment of the invention, and has the corresponding functional modules and beneficial effects for executing the method. Further functional descriptions of the various modules and units described above are the same as in the corresponding embodiments described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0078] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a controller for an ice-making device provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] The following is a detailed reference. Figure 6 The diagram illustrates a structural schematic suitable for implementing a controller in an embodiment of the present invention. The controller may include a processor (e.g., a central processing unit, graphics processing unit, etc.) 601, which can perform various appropriate actions and processes according to a program stored in read-only memory (ROM) 602 or a program loaded from memory 608 into random access memory (RAM) 603. The RAM 603 also stores various programs and data required for controller operation. The processor 601, ROM 602, and RAM 603 are interconnected via a bus 604. An input / output (I / O) interface 605 is also connected to the bus 604.

[0080] Typically, the following devices can be connected to I / O interface 605: input devices 606 including, for example, touchscreens, touchpads, keyboards, mice, cameras, microphones, accelerometers, gyroscopes, etc.; output devices 607 including, for example, liquid crystal displays (LCDs), speakers, vibrators, etc.; memory devices 608 including, for example, magnetic tapes, hard disks, etc.; and communication devices 609. Communication device 609 allows the controller to communicate wirelessly or wiredly with other devices to exchange data. Although Figure 6 A controller with various devices is shown, but it should be understood that it is not required to implement or have all of the devices shown, and may alternatively implement or have more or fewer devices.

[0081] In particular, according to embodiments of the present invention, the processes described above with reference to the flowcharts can be implemented as computer software programs. For example, embodiments of the present invention include a computer program product comprising a computer program carried on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the computer program containing program code for performing the methods shown in the flowcharts. In such embodiments, the computer program can be downloaded and installed from a network via a communication device 609, or installed from a memory 608, or installed from a ROM 602. When the computer program is executed by the processor 601, it performs the functions defined in the ice-making equipment control method of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 6 The controller shown is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting the functionality and scope of use of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0083] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium. The methods described above according to embodiments of the invention can be implemented in hardware or firmware, or implemented as computer code that can be recorded on a storage medium, or implemented as computer code downloaded via a network and originally stored on a remote storage medium or a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and then stored on a local storage medium. Thus, the methods described herein can be processed by software stored on a storage medium using a general-purpose computer, a dedicated processor, or programmable or dedicated hardware. The storage medium can be a magnetic disk, optical disk, read-only memory, random access memory, flash memory, hard disk, or solid-state drive, etc.; further, the storage medium can also include combinations of the above types of memory. It is understood that computers, processors, microprocessor controllers, or programmable hardware include storage components capable of storing or receiving software or computer code. When the software or computer code is accessed and executed by the computer, processor, or hardware, the ice-making equipment control method shown in the above embodiments is implemented.

[0084] A portion of this invention can be applied as a computer program product, such as computer program instructions, which, when executed by a computer, can invoke or provide the methods and / or technical solutions according to the invention through the operation of the computer. Those skilled in the art will understand that the forms in which computer program instructions exist in a computer-readable medium include, but are not limited to, source files, executable files, installation package files, etc. Correspondingly, the ways in which computer program instructions are executed by a computer include, but are not limited to: the computer directly executing the instructions, or the computer compiling the instructions and then executing the corresponding compiled program, or the computer reading and executing the instructions, or the computer reading and installing the instructions and then executing the corresponding installed program. Here, the computer-readable medium can be any available computer-readable storage medium or communication medium accessible to a computer.

[0085] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for controlling an ice-making device, the ice-making device comprising: An ice-collecting detection component, wherein during normal ice-collecting, when an ice block falls off, the ice-collecting detection component performs an ice-collecting action, causing it to switch from an on state to an off state; after the ice block falls off, the ice-collecting detection component performs a reset action, switching from the off state to the on state; characterized in that the method includes: When the ice-making equipment finishes making ice and enters the ice-collecting process, the first timing begins, and the execution action of the ice-collecting detection component is detected. In response to the first timing period reaching the preset ice collection time, and when the ice collection detection component has not performed an ice collection action in the current ice collection process, the ice-making device is controlled to exit the ice collection process and start the next ice-making process, and the process returns to the step of starting the first timing when the ice-making device has completed ice making and entered the ice collection process, and detecting the dynamic state of the ice collection detection component. In response to the first timing period reaching the preset ice collection time, and the ice collection detection component failing to perform an ice collection action during a preset number of consecutive ice collection processes, the ice-making equipment is determined to be in an ice collection fault state. The ice-making equipment is then controlled to stop ice making and a fault alarm is triggered.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: In response to the fact that the first timing period has not reached the preset ice collection time, and the ice collection detection component has performed the ice collection action in the current ice collection process, the ice making device is controlled to exit the ice collection process and start the second timing. If the second timing period has not reached the preset reset waiting period, and the ice collection detection component is detected to perform a reset action, the second timing is cleared, and the ice-making equipment is controlled to start the next ice-making cycle. Then, the process returns to the step of starting the first timing when the ice-making equipment has completed ice making and entered the ice collection process, and detecting the dynamic state of the ice collection detection component.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: Once the preset reset waiting time is reached after the second timing period, it is determined that the ice-making device is in a full ice state, and the ice-making device is controlled to stop making ice.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the ice-making equipment is in the full ice state, in response to the detection that the ice-collecting detection component has performed a reset action, the ice-making equipment is controlled to start the next ice-making cycle, and the process returns to the step of starting the first timer and detecting the dynamic state of the ice-collecting detection component when the ice-making equipment has completed ice-making and entered the ice-collecting process.

5. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the ice-making equipment is in the ice-collecting fault state or the ice-full state, in response to detecting that the cumulative ice-collecting time of the ice-making equipment has reached the preset ice-collecting time, the ice-making equipment is controlled to start the next ice-making cycle, and the process returns to the step of starting the first timing when the ice-making equipment has completed ice-making and entered the ice-collecting process, and detecting the dynamic status of the ice-collecting detection component.

6. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the ice-making equipment is in the ice-collecting fault state or the ice-full state for a period of time that reaches the preset ice storage time, the ice-making equipment is controlled to start the next ice-making cycle, and the process returns to the step of starting the first timing when the ice-making equipment has completed ice-making and entered the ice-collecting process, and detecting the dynamic status of the ice-collecting detection component.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The detection of the execution actions of the ice collection detection component includes: The on / off status of the ice collection detection component is detected; In response to detecting that the ice collection detection component has switched from an on state to an off state, it is determined that the action performed by the ice collection detection component is an ice collection action; In response to detecting that the ice collection detection component has switched from a disconnected state to an on state, the action performed by the ice collection detection component is determined to be a reset action.

8. A control device for an ice-making equipment, the ice-making equipment comprising: An ice-collecting detection component, wherein during normal ice-collecting, when an ice block falls off, the ice-collecting detection component performs an ice-collecting action, causing it to switch from an on state to an off state; after the ice block falls off, the ice-collecting detection component performs a reset action, switching from the off state to the on state; characterized in that the device comprises: The first processing module is used to start a first timer when the ice-making equipment finishes making ice and enters the ice-collecting process, and to detect the execution action of the ice-collecting detection component. The second processing module is used to respond to the first timing duration reaching the preset ice collection duration, and the ice collection detection component not performing an ice collection action in the current ice collection process, to control the ice-making device to exit the ice collection process and start the next ice-making process, and return to the steps of starting the first timing when the ice-making device completes ice making and enters the ice collection process, and detecting the dynamic state of the ice collection detection component. The third processing module is used to determine that the ice-making equipment is in an ice-collecting fault state when the first timing duration reaches the preset ice-collecting duration and the ice-collecting detection component has not performed an ice-collecting action in the ice-collecting process for a preset number of consecutive times, control the ice-making equipment to stop making ice, and issue a fault alarm.

9. An ice-making apparatus, the ice-making apparatus comprising: An ice-collecting detection component, wherein during normal ice-collecting, when an ice block falls off, the ice-collecting detection component performs an ice-collecting action, causing it to switch from an on state to an off state; after the ice block falls off, the ice-collecting detection component performs a reset action, switching from the off state to the on state; characterized in that the ice-making equipment further includes: A controller comprising: a memory and a processor, the memory and the processor being communicatively connected to each other, the memory storing computer instructions, the processor executing the computer instructions to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. The ice-making equipment according to claim 9, characterized in that, The ice-making equipment is an ice maker.

11. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions for causing the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 7.

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