Washing machine and control method thereof

Abstract

The present invention discloses a washing machine and a control method thereof, the washing machine including: a first loading box configured to load a liquid and a solid; the liquid inlet assembly communicates with the top of the first loading box and is configured to supply liquid to the first loading box; the flow meter is configured to detect the volume value of the liquid supplied by the liquid inlet assembly; the bottom of the gas storage chamber is communicated with the bottom of the first loading box; the pressure sensor is located above the first loading box; the pressure sensor is communicated with the top of the gas storage chamber; the pressure sensor is configured to detect an air pressure value in the air storage chamber; and the flowmeter is electrically connected with the pressure sensor. The flow meter and the pressure sensor are arranged, the liquid level of the first loading box can be reflected through the flow meter, the liquid level of the first loading box can also be reflected through the pressure sensor, and liquid level detection is accurate through combination of the flow meter and the pressure sensor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of liquid level detection technology, and more particularly to a washing machine and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] The accuracy of liquid level detection in liquid equipment affects the effectiveness of liquid usage. For example, in water-using equipment such as washing machines, if the water level is not detected accurately, it will be difficult to match the amount of detergent to the actual amount of water and detergent needed by the clothes, resulting in problems such as "not being clean", "excessive foam", and "detergent residue".

[0003] In the existing technology, water-using equipment such as washing machines generally adopt pressure-type water level detection schemes. In order to improve the accuracy of water level detection, electronic pressure sensors or air pressure detection pipeline structures have been introduced. However, the sensors are susceptible to water vapor corrosion during long-term operation, and the risk of failure is relatively high. Detergents, hard water, grease, etc. can cause electrode corrosion or changes in sensitivity, resulting in the problem that the accuracy of liquid level detection in liquid-using equipment still needs to be improved.

[0004] Therefore, existing technologies still need improvement and development. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a washing machine and its control method in view of the above-mentioned defects of the prior art, so as to solve the problem that the accuracy of liquid level detection in liquid equipment used in the prior art still needs to be improved.

[0006] The technical solution adopted by this invention to solve the technical problem is as follows: A washing machine, comprising: The first loading tank is configured to hold both liquids and solids; A liquid inlet assembly is connected to the top of the first loading tank and is configured to supply liquid to the first loading tank; A flow meter is configured to detect the volume of liquid supplied by the inlet assembly; A gas storage chamber, the bottom of which is connected to the bottom of the first loading box; A pressure sensor is located above the first loading box; The pressure sensor is connected to the top of the gas storage chamber; The pressure sensor is configured to detect the air pressure value in the air storage chamber; The flow meter is electrically connected to the pressure sensor.

[0007] In the washing machine, the top of the air storage chamber is connected to the pressure sensor via an air pipe; the bottom of the air storage chamber is located at the corresponding position of the bottom of the first loading box. The ratio of the internal volume of the gas storage chamber to the internal volume of the gas pipe is determined based on the internal height of the first loading box.

[0008] The washing machine, wherein the washing machine further includes: A drainage assembly is connected to the bottom of the first loading tank and is configured to drain the liquid inside the first loading tank; The bottom of the gas storage chamber is connected to the drainage assembly, and / or the bottom of the gas storage chamber is connected to the bottom of the first loading box via a connecting pipe.

[0009] The washing machine, wherein the drain assembly includes: Drain pipe and drain valve; The two ends of the drain pipe are respectively connected to the bottom of the first loading box and the inlet of the drain valve; The bottom of the gas storage chamber is connected to the drain pipe, and / or the bottom of the gas storage chamber is connected to the inlet of the drain valve.

[0010] The washing machine further includes: at least one second loading tank connected to the liquid inlet assembly; The internal volume of the second loading box is smaller than the internal volume of the first loading box; The liquid inlet assembly is configured to supply liquid to the second loading tank.

[0011] The washing machine, wherein the liquid comprises: a first liquid and a second liquid; The liquid inlet assembly includes: A liquid storage chamber is configured to store the first liquid; A mixing chamber, connected to the storage chamber, is configured to mix the first liquid and the second liquid; The liquid mixing device is connected to the mixing chamber, the first loading tank, and the second loading tank, respectively. The mixing chamber is provided with an inlet for the second liquid to enter. The liquid dispenser is configured to dispense liquid into the first loading tank and the second loading tank; The liquid dispensing device is electrically connected to the pressure sensor.

[0012] The washing machine is provided in which multiple liquid storage chambers are provided, each storing a different type of first liquid, the first liquid being selected from at least one of laundry detergent, fabric softener, and disinfectant.

[0013] The washing machine, wherein the flow meter is selected from at least one of Hall effect flow meters, impeller flow meters, magnetic flow meters, and pulse flow meters; The liquid mixing device includes: A reversing valve, the inlet of which is connected to the mixing chamber; The first compartment is connected to the first outlet of the reversing valve; At least one second compartment is connected to the second outlet of the reversing valve; The first compartment is connected to the first loading box; the second compartment is connected to the second loading box. A single flow meter is used, which is located at the inlet of the reversing valve or the mixing chamber; At least two flow meters are used, located in the first compartment and the second compartment, respectively.

[0014] A control method for a washing machine as described in any of the above claims, comprising the steps of: Obtain the air pressure value detected by the pressure sensor; The first liquid level in the first loading tank is determined based on the air pressure value. Obtain the first volume value detected by the flow meter; Based on the first volume value, determine the second liquid level in the first loading tank; The liquid dispenser is controlled according to the first liquid level and / or the second liquid level.

[0015] In the control method of the washing machine, the flow meter detects the pulse signal of the liquid flow rate and accumulates the pulse signal to obtain a first volume value; Determining the second liquid level of the first loading tank based on the first volume value includes: Based on the correspondence between the volume and liquid level of the first loading tank, the second liquid level of the first loading tank is determined according to the first volume value; the correspondence between the volume and liquid level of the first loading tank is determined based on the internal shape and size of the first loading tank. The step of controlling the liquid dispenser according to the first liquid level and / or the second liquid level includes: When the first liquid level reaches the first target liquid level and the difference between the first liquid level and the second liquid level is less than a preset threshold, the liquid dispenser is controlled to stop supplying liquid to the first loading tank. When the first liquid level reaches the first target liquid level, and the difference between the first liquid level and the second liquid level is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, the liquid dispenser is controlled to stop supplying liquid to the first loading tank, and after a preset time, the pressure value detected by the pressure sensor and the first volume value detected by the flow meter are acquired. If the difference between the first liquid level and the second liquid level is greater than or equal to the preset threshold, the operation is stopped and an alarm is issued. The control method further includes: Obtain the second volume value detected by the flow meter; The liquid level in the second loading tank is determined based on the second volume value; The liquid dispenser is controlled according to the liquid level in the second loading tank.

[0016] Beneficial effects: This application is equipped with a flow meter and a pressure sensor, which can reflect the liquid level of the first loading tank through both the flow meter and the pressure sensor. The combination of the two makes the liquid level detection more accurate. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a functional principle block diagram of the washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the first structure of the washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the second structure of the washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a bottom view of the washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Sectional view along line A.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the third structure of the washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the fourth structure of the washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a fifth structural schematic diagram of the washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a sixth structural schematic diagram of the washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the gas storage chamber in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a first structural schematic diagram of the liquid inlet assembly in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the second structure of the liquid inlet assembly in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the third structure of the liquid inlet assembly in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 14This is a schematic diagram of the fourth structure of the liquid inlet assembly in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the liquid pump in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the reversing valve in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 11. First loading container; 12. Second loading container; 20. Gas storage chamber; 30. Pressure sensor; 40. Trachea; 51. Drain pipe; 52. Drain valve; 53. Drain pump; 60. Liquid inlet assembly; 61. Liquid storage chamber; 62. Mixing chamber; 63. Liquid dispenser; 631. Reversing valve; 632. First compartment; 633. Second compartment; 64. Liquid pump; 65. Liquid inlet valve; 70. Flow meter. Detailed Implementation

[0034] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer and more explicit, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0035] Please also refer to Figures 1-16 The present invention provides some embodiments of a washing machine.

[0036] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the washing machine of the present invention includes: The first loading tank 11 is configured to load liquids and solids; The liquid inlet assembly 60 is connected to the top of the first loading tank 11 and is configured to supply liquid to the first loading tank 11. The flow meter 70 is configured to detect the volume of liquid supplied by the liquid inlet assembly 60; Gas storage chamber 20, the bottom of which is connected to the bottom of the first loading box 11; Pressure sensor 30 is located above the first loading box 11; The pressure sensor 30 is connected to the top of the gas storage chamber 20; the pressure sensor 30 is configured to detect the gas pressure value inside the gas storage chamber 20; and the flow meter 70 is electrically connected to the pressure sensor 30.

[0037] Specifically, the washing machine can detect the liquid level in the first loading tank 11. During use, the first loading tank 11 contains both liquid and solid components. Since the amount of solid is not exactly the same, even with a fixed amount of liquid, the liquid level will vary. Besides washing machines, this can also be used for cleaning, washing, or disinfection equipment, specifically using liquid to clean, wash, or disinfect solids. The liquid can be a cleaning solution, washing solution, or disinfectant. The solid can be an item to be cleaned, washed, or disinfected. For example, a washing device could be a dishwasher. The air chamber 20 is used to store air. The bottom of the air chamber 20 is connected to the bottom of the first loading tank 11. When liquid is injected into the first loading tank 11, the liquid flows into the air chamber 20. As the liquid level in the first loading tank 11 rises, the liquid level in the air chamber 20 also rises, and the air in the air chamber 20 is compressed, causing the air pressure in the air chamber 20 to rise. The change in air pressure reflects the change in the liquid level in the first loading tank 11. Pressure sensor 30 is connected to the top of gas storage chamber 20. When the liquid level in gas storage chamber 20 rises, air is compressed to the top of gas storage chamber 20. Pressure sensor 30 is used to detect the air pressure value in gas storage chamber 20 so as to obtain the liquid level through the air pressure value. Pressure sensor 30 is located above the first loading tank 11. Even if there is an air leak, the liquid cannot reach the position of pressure sensor 30, and the liquid will not affect pressure sensor 30.

[0038] The liquid in the first loading tank 11 needs to be replenished, specifically through the liquid inlet assembly 60. The flow meter 70 can detect the volume of liquid supplied by the liquid inlet assembly 60. When the liquid inlet assembly 60 supplies liquid to the first loading tank 11, the flow meter 70 can detect the volume of liquid supplied to the first loading tank 11. This volume value can be used to obtain a liquid level range. Due to different amounts of solids added, the liquid level may be located at different positions, which is represented by a liquid level range.

[0039] This application configures a gas storage chamber 20, with the bottom of the gas storage chamber 20 connected to the bottom of the first loading box 11, and the pressure sensor 30 connected to the top of the gas storage chamber 20. The pressure sensor 30 is located above the first loading box 11. When the pressure sensor 30 detects the gas pressure value in the gas storage chamber 20, the liquid will not come into contact with the pressure sensor 30, thus extending its service life. Moreover, the gas storage chamber 20 is less likely to retain liquid or other impurities, and the liquid level detection is more accurate.

[0040] This application is equipped with a flow meter 70 and a pressure sensor 30. The flow meter 70 can reflect the liquid level of the first loading tank 11, and the pressure sensor 30 can also reflect the liquid level of the first loading tank 11. The combination of the two makes the liquid level detection more accurate.

[0041] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figure 2, Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the top of the gas storage chamber 20 is connected to the pressure sensor 30 via the air pipe 40; the bottom of the gas storage chamber 20 is located at the corresponding position of the bottom of the first loading box 11; the ratio of the internal volume of the gas storage chamber 20 to the internal volume of the air pipe 40 is determined according to the internal height of the first loading box 11.

[0042] Specifically, such as Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 10 As shown, the cross-section of the gas storage chamber 20 is larger than that of the air pipe 40, which has a smaller cross-section. To keep the air pipe 40 clean, it is necessary to prevent liquids and debris from entering it. When the liquid level in the first loading box 11 reaches its maximum level, the liquid level in the gas storage chamber 20 will not rise into the air pipe 40. The maximum liquid level in the first loading box 11 is limited by its internal height. Therefore, based on the internal height of the first loading box 11, the maximum pressure at the bottom of the first loading box 11 (i.e., the pressure when the first loading box 11 is full of liquid) can be determined, thereby determining the maximum air pressure value of the gas storage chamber 20. When the ratio of the maximum air pressure value to the standard atmospheric pressure is less than the ratio of the internal volume of the gas storage chamber 20 to the internal volume of the air pipe 40, it is possible to prevent all the air in the gas storage chamber 20 from being compressed into the air pipe 40, that is, to prevent liquids from entering the air pipe 40. For example, taking a washing machine as an example, the internal height of the first loading box 11 is usually less than 1m. Taking 1m as the calculation, the maximum pressure at the bottom of the first loading box 11 is about 0.1 standard atmospheres. The maximum air pressure value is about 0.1 standard atmospheres, and the ratio of the maximum air pressure value to the standard atmosphere is about 0.1. When the ratio of the internal volume of the air storage chamber 20 to the internal volume of the air pipe 40 is greater than 0.1, liquid can be prevented from entering the air pipe 40.

[0043] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figures 1-3 As shown, the washing machine also includes: A drainage assembly is connected to the bottom of the first loading tank 11 and is configured to drain the liquid inside the first loading tank 11.

[0044] Specifically, after the liquid has processed the solid, the liquid needs to be drained from the first loading tank 11, which is done through a drain assembly. The drain assembly is connected to the bottom of the first loading tank 11, which helps to drain as much liquid as possible from the first loading tank 11.

[0045] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figures 1-3 As shown, the bottom of the gas storage chamber 20 is connected to the drainage assembly, and / or the bottom of the gas storage chamber 20 is connected to the bottom of the first loading box 11 through a connecting pipe.

[0046] Specifically, the bottom of the gas storage chamber 20 can be connected to the drainage assembly, thus enabling the gas storage chamber 20 to connect with the bottom of the first loading box 11 via the drainage assembly. Alternatively, a separate connecting pipe can be configured for the gas storage chamber 20 to connect the bottom of the gas storage chamber 20 with the bottom of the first loading box 11.

[0047] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figures 6-9 As shown, the drainage assembly includes: Drain pipe 51 and drain valve 52; The two ends of the drain pipe 51 are respectively connected to the bottom of the first loading box 11 and the inlet of the drain valve 52; the bottom of the gas storage chamber 20 is connected to the drain pipe 51, and / or the bottom of the gas storage chamber 20 is connected to the inlet of the drain valve 52.

[0048] Specifically, the liquid in the first loading tank 11 reaches the position of the drain valve 52 through the drain pipe 51. By controlling the drain valve 52, the discharge of the drain pipe 51 can be controlled. The bottom of the gas storage chamber 20 can be connected to the drain pipe 51 or to the inlet of the drain valve 52, and the position of the gas storage chamber 20 can be configured according to the specific needs.

[0049] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figures 5-9 As shown, the drainage assembly includes: The drain pump 53 is connected to the drain valve 52.

[0050] Specifically, the liquid in the first loading tank 11 and the drain pipe 51 is discharged as much as possible by the drain pump 53. The drain pump 53 is electrically connected to the pressure sensor 30.

[0051] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figures 1-5 As shown, the washing machine further includes: at least one second loading tank 12, which is in communication with the liquid inlet assembly 60; The internal volume of the second loading tank 12 is smaller than that of the first loading tank 11; the liquid inlet assembly 60 is configured to supply liquid to the second loading tank 12.

[0052] Specifically, the second loading tank 12 is used to load both liquids and solids. The internal volume of the second loading tank 12 is smaller than that of the first loading tank 11. The first loading tank 11 is used to load solids with larger dimensions and volumes, while the second loading tank 12 is used to load solids with smaller dimensions and volumes. The second loading tank 12 can be located above or below the first loading tank 11. There can be multiple second loading tanks 12, each located above or below the first loading tank 11. The liquid inlet assembly 60 supplies liquid to the second loading tank 12, and the flow meter 70 can detect the volume of liquid supplied to the second loading tank 12. Because the internal volume of the second loading tank 12 is small, the difference in the amount of solids added to the second loading tank 12 is not significant, and the impact on the liquid level in the second loading tank 12 is minimal. The liquid level in the second loading tank 12 can be determined by the volume value detected by the flow meter 70.

[0053] The second loading tank 12 can be equipped with a drain assembly, and each second loading tank 12 is equipped with a drain pipe 51 and a drain valve 52. The first loading tank 11 and the second loading tank 12 can share a drain pump 53. The drain pump 53 drains as much liquid as possible from the first loading tank 11, the second loading tank 12, and the drain pipe 51. A washing machine using only a single first loading tank 11 and without a second loading tank 12 can be formed as a single-tub washing machine. A multi-tub washing machine using a single first loading tank 11 and at least one second loading tank 12 can be formed.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the liquid includes: a first liquid and a second liquid.

[0055] Specifically, the liquid is a mixture, which may include a first liquid and a second liquid. The first liquid may be a cleaning agent, detergent, disinfectant, etc. The second liquid may be water. The first liquid is present in a smaller quantity, while the second liquid is present in a larger quantity, diluting the first liquid. Alternatively, the liquid may consist only of the second liquid, without adding any cleaning agent, detergent, or disinfectant, thereby removing any residual second liquid from the solid using the first liquid.

[0056] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figures 11-14 As shown, the liquid inlet assembly 60 includes: The liquid storage chamber 61 is configured to store the first liquid; The mixing chamber 62 is connected to the storage chamber 61 and is configured to mix the first liquid and the second liquid; The liquid mixing device 63 is connected to the mixing chamber 62, the first loading box 11, and the second loading box 12, respectively. The mixing chamber 62 is provided with a liquid inlet for the second liquid to enter; the liquid dispenser 63 is configured to dispense liquid to the first loading tank 11 and the second loading tank 12; the liquid dispenser 63 is electrically connected to the pressure sensor 30.

[0057] Specifically, the storage chamber 61 is used to store a first liquid. The storage chamber 61 has an inlet for injecting the first liquid into it. There can be multiple storage chambers 61; for example, two storage chambers 61 can be used to store different types of first liquids, selected or combined according to the type of solid. For example, the first liquid can be at least one of a detergent, fabric softener, and disinfectant. The first liquid and the second liquid can be mixed in the mixing chamber 62, ensuring the first liquid is fully dispersed in the second liquid. The dispensing device 63 can distribute the liquid from the mixing chamber 62 to the first loading tank 11 and the second loading tank 12. For example, the dispensing device 63 can first distribute the liquid from the mixing chamber 62 to one loading tank, and when the liquid level in that loading tank reaches the target level, the dispensing device 63 distributes the liquid from the mixing chamber 62 to the other loading tank. In use, since the amount of the first liquid is small and the amount of the second liquid is large, a flow meter 70 can be used to measure the volume of the second liquid and use this as the volume value of the liquid. Therefore, the flow meter 70 can be configured at the inlet to reduce contact between the second liquid and the flow meter 70. Alternatively, the flow meter 70 can also be configured at the outlet of the mixing chamber 62. Multiple flow meters 70 can also be configured; for example, one flow meter 70 can be configured for each loading tank, with a corresponding flow meter 70 positioned at the location where the liquid inlet assembly 60 flows towards the corresponding loading tank. The flow meter 70 is selected from at least one of Hall effect flow meters, impeller flow meters, magnetic flow meters, and pulse flow meters.

[0058] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figures 11-15 As shown, the storage chamber 61 and the mixing chamber 62 are connected by a pump 64. The pump 64 is positioned between the storage chamber 61 and the mixing chamber 62 to extract the first liquid from the storage chamber 61 and transport it to the mixing chamber 62. When multiple storage chambers 61 are used, each storage chamber 61 is equipped with a corresponding pump 64. An inlet valve 65 is connected to the inlet to control the injection of the second liquid.

[0059] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figures 1-3 , Figure 8 , Figure 12 , Figure 14 and Figure 16 As shown, the dispensing device 63 includes: A reversing valve 631, the inlet of which is connected to the mixing chamber 62; The first compartment 632 is connected to the first outlet of the reversing valve 631; At least one second compartment 633 is connected to the second outlet of the reversing valve 631; The first compartment 632 is connected to the first loading box 11; the second compartment 633 is connected to the second loading box 12.

[0060] Specifically, the number of second outlets of the reversing valve 631 and the number of second partition chambers 633 are the same as the number of second loading tanks 12. When two second loading tanks 12 are used, two second partition chambers 633 and two second outlets are configured. The reversing valve 631 can change the connection state of the inlet and outlet, thereby changing the direction of liquid delivery. The reversing valve 631 can connect only the inlet and the first outlet, or it can connect only the inlet and the second outlet. When multiple second outlets are used, the reversing valve 631 can connect only the inlet and one of the multiple second outlets, thereby delivering liquid to the corresponding loading tank.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, when a single flow meter 70 is used, the flow meter 70 is located at the inlet of the reversing valve 631 or the mixing chamber 62; when at least two flow meters 70 are used, the flow meters 70 are located in the first partition chamber 632 and the second partition chamber 633, respectively.

[0062] Specifically, when using a single flow meter 70, the flow meter 70 can be positioned at the inlet valve 65, mixing chamber 62, or the inlet of the reversing valve 631 of the washing machine. When using multiple flow meters 70, one flow meter 70 is configured in the first compartment 632, and a corresponding flow meter 70 is configured in each second compartment 633. When using multiple flow meters 70, water can be injected into the first compartment 632 and at least one second compartment 633 separately, simultaneously, or in combination. Through the cooperation of the liquid pump 64, the inlet valve 65, and the reversing valve 631, quantitative, mixed, or timed injection of different liquids can be achieved.

[0063] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figures 11-14 As shown, the liquid storage chamber 61, the mixing chamber 62, the first partition chamber 632, and the second partition chamber 633 form an integral structure, which includes: substrate; Multiple first partitions are disposed on the upper surface of the substrate; Multiple second partitions are disposed on the lower surface of the substrate; A cover plate that covers the top of all the first partitions; The bottom plate covers the area beneath all the second partitions; The substrate, cover plate, and first partition plate surround to form liquid storage chamber 61 and mixing chamber 62; the substrate, bottom plate, and second partition plate surround to form first partition chamber 632 and second partition chamber 633.

[0064] Specifically, the integrated structure is T-shaped and has three ends: a first end, a second end, and a third end. The liquid pump 64 is located at the first end, the reversing valve 631 is located at the second end, and the injection port is located at the third end, which is connected to the loading box via pipelines.

[0065] Based on the washing machine described in any of the above embodiments, the present invention also provides a preferred embodiment of a control method for the washing machine.

[0066] The control method of this invention includes the following steps: Step S100: Obtain the air pressure value detected by the pressure sensor; Step S200: Determine the first liquid level in the first loading tank based on the air pressure value; Step S300: Obtain the first volume value detected by the flow meter; Step S400: Determine the second liquid level of the first loading tank based on the first volume value; Step S500: Control the liquid dispenser according to the first liquid level and / or the second liquid level.

[0067] Specifically, the air pressure value in the air storage chamber is obtained through a pressure sensor, and then the first liquid level in the first loading tank is determined based on the air pressure value. The air pressure value in the air storage chamber has a pressure difference with atmospheric pressure, and this pressure difference is equal to the pressure at the bottom of the first loading tank. The pressure at the bottom of the first loading tank is related to the liquid density, gravitational acceleration, and the first liquid level. P - P 0= ρ gh ,in, P This indicates the air pressure value inside the gas storage chamber. P 0 represents atmospheric pressure. ρ This indicates the density of the liquid. g Represents gravitational acceleration. h This indicates the first liquid level. The liquid density can be taken as the density of water, and the atmospheric pressure can be taken as standard atmospheric pressure. P - P 标 = ρ 水 gh ,in, P This indicates the air pressure value inside the gas storage chamber. P 标 Indicates standard atmospheric pressure. ρ 水 This indicates the density of water.g Represents gravitational acceleration. h This indicates the first liquid level. h= ( P - P 标 ) / ( ρ 水 g ).

[0068] The first volume of liquid supplied to the first loading tank is obtained by a flow meter, and then the second liquid level in the first loading tank is determined based on the first volume. Finally, the liquid dispenser is controlled according to the first liquid level and / or the second liquid level.

[0069] The flow meter detects the pulse signal of the liquid flow rate and accumulates the pulse signals to obtain a first volume value. Each unit volume of liquid flowing through generates a pulse signal; by accumulating the number of pulse signals, the first volume value can be obtained based on the number of pulse signals and the unit volume.

[0070] Step S400 specifically includes: Step S410: Based on the correspondence between the volume and liquid level of the first loading tank, determine the second liquid level of the first loading tank according to the first volume value; the correspondence between the volume and liquid level of the first loading tank is determined based on the internal shape and size of the first loading tank.

[0071] Specifically, the shape of the first loading tank is irregular, and the amount of liquid injected and the liquid level are not linear. Based on the internal shape and dimensions of the first loading tank, a correspondence between its volume and liquid level can be pre-established. Therefore, after obtaining the first volume value, the corresponding second liquid level can be determined based on this correspondence. Furthermore, the range of solid quantities added to the first loading tank can be considered to correct the correspondence between the volume and liquid level, improving the accuracy of the second liquid level reading.

[0072] Step S500 specifically includes: Step S510: When the first liquid level reaches the first target liquid level and the difference between the first liquid level and the second liquid level is less than a preset threshold, control the liquid dispenser to stop supplying liquid to the first loading tank. Step S520: When the first liquid level reaches the first target liquid level and the difference between the first liquid level and the second liquid level is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, control the liquid dispenser to stop supplying liquid to the first loading tank, and continue to acquire the air pressure value detected by the pressure sensor and the first volume value detected by the flow meter after a preset time. If the difference between the first liquid level and the second liquid level is greater than or equal to the preset threshold, stop working and issue an alarm.

[0073] Specifically, if the solids in the first loading compartment are not easily wetted by water and occupy a large space, such as down jackets or other clothing, adding a small amount of water will cause the liquid level to rise rapidly. The first liquid level rises rapidly and reaches the first target liquid level, but the second liquid level is far from reaching the first target liquid level, resulting in a large difference between the first and second liquid levels. In this case, a pause is needed to allow the solids to be wetted. After a preset time, if the difference between the first and second liquid levels is still greater than or equal to a preset threshold, it indicates a possible abnormality, and the washing machine will stop operating and issue an alarm.

[0074] When the first liquid level reaches the first target liquid level, and the difference between the first liquid level and the second liquid level is less than a preset threshold, after controlling the liquid dispenser to stop supplying liquid to the first loading tank, the liquid dispenser can also be controlled to supply liquid to the second loading tank.

[0075] The control method also includes the following steps: Step S600: Obtain the second volume value detected by the flow meter; Step S700: Determine the liquid level of the second loading tank based on the second volume value; Step S800: Control the liquid dispenser according to the liquid level in the second loading tank.

[0076] Specifically, a second volume value of the liquid supplied to the second loading tank is obtained through a flow meter, and then the liquid level of the second loading tank is determined based on the second volume value. Finally, the liquid distributor is controlled according to the liquid level of the second loading tank. When the liquid level of the second loading tank reaches the second target liquid level, the liquid distributor is controlled to stop supplying liquid to the second loading tank.

[0077] It should be understood that the application of the present invention is not limited to the examples above. Those skilled in the art can make improvements or modifications based on the above description, and all such improvements and modifications should fall within the protection scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A washing machine, characterized in that, include: The first loading tank is configured to hold both liquids and solids; A liquid inlet assembly is connected to the top of the first loading tank and is configured to supply liquid to the first loading tank; A flow meter is configured to detect the volume of liquid supplied by the inlet assembly; A gas storage chamber, the bottom of which is connected to the bottom of the first loading box; A pressure sensor is located above the first loading box; The pressure sensor is connected to the top of the gas storage chamber; The pressure sensor is configured to detect the air pressure value in the air storage chamber; The flow meter is electrically connected to the pressure sensor.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The top of the gas storage chamber is connected to the pressure sensor via a gas pipe; the bottom of the gas storage chamber is located at the corresponding position of the bottom of the first loading box. The ratio of the internal volume of the gas storage chamber to the internal volume of the gas pipe is determined based on the internal height of the first loading box.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The washing machine also includes: A drainage assembly is connected to the bottom of the first loading tank and is configured to drain the liquid inside the first loading tank; The bottom of the gas storage chamber is connected to the drainage assembly, and / or the bottom of the gas storage chamber is connected to the bottom of the first loading box via a connecting pipe.

4. The washing machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The drainage assembly includes: Drain pipe and drain valve; The two ends of the drain pipe are respectively connected to the bottom of the first loading box and the inlet of the drain valve; The bottom of the gas storage chamber is connected to the drain pipe, and / or the bottom of the gas storage chamber is connected to the inlet of the drain valve.

5. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The washing machine further includes: at least one second loading tank, which is in communication with the liquid inlet assembly; The internal volume of the second loading box is smaller than the internal volume of the first loading box; The liquid inlet assembly is configured to supply liquid to the second loading tank.

6. The washing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The liquid includes: a first liquid and a second liquid; The liquid inlet assembly includes: A liquid storage chamber is configured to store the first liquid; A mixing chamber, connected to the storage chamber, is configured to mix the first liquid and the second liquid; The liquid mixing device is connected to the mixing chamber, the first loading tank, and the second loading tank, respectively. The mixing chamber is provided with an inlet for the second liquid to enter. The liquid dispenser is configured to dispense liquid into the first loading tank and the second loading tank; The liquid dispensing device is electrically connected to the pressure sensor.

7. The washing machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The liquid storage chamber has multiple compartments, each storing a different type of first liquid, which is selected from at least one of laundry detergent, fabric softener, and disinfectant.

8. The washing machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The flow meter is selected from at least one of Hall effect flow meters, impeller flow meters, magnetic flow meters, and pulse flow meters; The liquid mixing device includes: A reversing valve, the inlet of which is connected to the mixing chamber; The first compartment is connected to the first outlet of the reversing valve; At least one second compartment is connected to the second outlet of the reversing valve; The first compartment is connected to the first loading box; the second compartment is connected to the second loading box. A single flow meter is used, which is located at the inlet of the reversing valve or the mixing chamber; At least two flow meters are used, located in the first compartment and the second compartment, respectively.

9. A control method for a washing machine as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, Including the following steps: Obtain the air pressure value detected by the pressure sensor; The first liquid level in the first loading tank is determined based on the air pressure value. Obtain the first volume value detected by the flow meter; Based on the first volume value, determine the second liquid level in the first loading tank; The liquid dispenser is controlled according to the first liquid level and / or the second liquid level.

10. The control method for a washing machine according to claim 9, characterized in that, The flow meter detects the pulse signal of the liquid flow rate and accumulates the pulse signal to obtain a first volume value; Determining the second liquid level of the first loading tank based on the first volume value includes: Based on the correspondence between the volume and liquid level of the first loading tank, the second liquid level of the first loading tank is determined according to the first volume value; the correspondence between the volume and liquid level of the first loading tank is determined based on the internal shape and size of the first loading tank. The step of controlling the liquid dispenser according to the first liquid level and / or the second liquid level includes: When the first liquid level reaches the first target liquid level and the difference between the first liquid level and the second liquid level is less than a preset threshold, the liquid dispenser is controlled to stop supplying liquid to the first loading tank. When the first liquid level reaches the first target liquid level, and the difference between the first liquid level and the second liquid level is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, the liquid dispenser is controlled to stop supplying liquid to the first loading tank, and after a preset time, the pressure value detected by the pressure sensor and the first volume value detected by the flow meter are acquired. If the difference between the first liquid level and the second liquid level is greater than or equal to the preset threshold, the operation is stopped and an alarm is issued. The control method further includes: Obtain the second volume value detected by the flow meter; The liquid level in the second loading tank is determined based on the second volume value; The liquid dispenser is controlled according to the liquid level in the second loading tank.

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