Washing machine water consumption determination method and application, electronic equipment and fabric treatment equipment

Abstract

The invention provides a washing machine water consumption determination method and application, electronic equipment and fabric treatment equipment, and belongs to the technical field of washing machine water consumption detection. The washing machine comprises an outer barrel assembly and a water inlet valve assembly used for controlling water to enter the outer barrel assembly, and a water level sensor is arranged in the outer barrel assembly; the method for determining the water consumption of the washing machine comprises the steps that in the water inlet process, a detection result of a water level sensor within set water inlet time is obtained, and a water level change value within the set water inlet time is determined according to the detection result; the water level change value is input into a pre-established water inlet flow and water level change value relation regression equation, and the water inlet flow of the water inlet valve assembly is obtained through calculation; acquiring water inlet time of the water inlet valve assembly; and calculating the water consumption of the washing machine according to the water inlet time and the water inlet flow. The water level sensor is used for detecting the water level change value, the regression equation of the relation between the water inlet flow and the water level change value is established in combination with experiments, and it can be ensured that the water consumption of the washing machine is accurately calculated without depending on a flowmeter.

Description

A method for determining water consumption in a washing machine and its application, electronic equipment and fabric treatment equipment Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of washing machine water consumption detection technology, specifically relating to a method and application for determining washing machine water consumption, electronic equipment, and fabric processing equipment. Background Technology

[0002] In daily life, most users lack a clear understanding of their washing machine's water consumption and find it difficult to assess the actual water usage under different washing modes and load conditions. This lack of information leads to unreasonable usage behaviors such as "using a lot of water for a small amount of laundry" or "using too little water for a large amount of laundry," resulting in wasted water resources or poor cleaning performance. If the washing machine's water consumption could be determined and displayed, users would be able to intuitively understand the actual water consumption under different loads and washing modes (such as quick wash, mixed wash, and large item wash). Based on this, users could proactively select more energy-efficient and water-saving operating modes according to the amount of laundry and cleaning needs.

[0003] Currently, water consumption detection in washing machines mainly relies on flow meters for real-time monitoring. The core of this method is to measure water flow through a flow meter installed in the inlet pipe, thereby accurately calculating the washing machine's water consumption. However, this method has the following problems: 1. High cost: Flow meters increase the overall cost of the washing machine; 2. Easily damaged: Impurities in the water flow may clog or wear down the flow meter, leading to inaccurate measurements or even failure; 3. Complex maintenance: Damaged flow meters require replacement, increasing the difficulty for users and providing after-sales service.

[0004] Based on the aforementioned technical problems in determining the water consumption of washing machines, there are currently no relevant solutions; therefore, there is an urgent need to find effective solutions to address these issues. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to address the shortcomings of the aforementioned technologies by proposing a method and application for determining the water consumption of a washing machine, as well as electronic equipment and fabric processing equipment. This aims to solve the problems that existing washing machines rely on flow meters to accurately detect water consumption, resulting in high overall machine costs, easy damage to flow meters, and complex maintenance.

[0006] This invention provides a method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine. The washing machine includes an outer drum assembly and a water inlet valve assembly for controlling water intake into the outer drum assembly. A water level sensor is installed inside the outer drum assembly. The method for determining the water consumption of the washing machine includes the following steps S100, S200, S300, and S400: Step S100: During the water intake process of the washing machine, the detection result of the water level sensor within a set water intake time is obtained, and the water level change value within the set water intake time is determined based on the detection result; Step S200: The water level change value is input into a pre-established regression equation relating the water intake flow rate and the water level change value to calculate the water intake flow rate of the water inlet valve assembly; Step S300: The water intake time of the water inlet valve assembly is obtained; Step S400: The water consumption of the washing machine is calculated based on the water intake time and the water intake flow rate.

[0007] Further, the water inlet valve assembly includes a main water inlet valve; the method for determining the water consumption of the washing machine includes the following steps S110, S210, S310 and S410: Step S110: Obtain the first water level change value formed by water entering the main water inlet valve within a set water inlet time; Step S210: Input the first water level change value into the pre-established regression equation of the relationship between the water inlet flow rate and the water level change value of the main water inlet valve, and calculate the first water inlet flow rate of the main water inlet valve; Step S310: Obtain the first water inlet time of the main water inlet valve; Step S410: Calculate the water inlet volume of the main water inlet valve based on the first water inlet time and the first water inlet flow rate.

[0008] Furthermore, the process of establishing the regression equation for the relationship between the inlet flow rate and water level change of the main inlet valve includes the following steps: selecting multiple standard inlet water pressures and multiple standard loads for cross-testing; in each cross-test, collecting the first standard water level change value x1 and the first standard inlet flow rate L1 formed by the main inlet valve within a set inlet time period detected by the water level sensor; fitting the first standard water level change value x1 and the first standard inlet flow rate L1 to obtain the regression equation L1=a1x1 for the relationship between the inlet flow rate and water level change of the main inlet valve. 2 +b1x1+c1; where a1, b1, and c1 are fitting coefficients.

[0009] Furthermore, the inlet valve assembly also includes multiple auxiliary inlet valves that can be independently controlled to open / close; the method for determining the washing machine's water consumption includes the following steps S220-1, S220-2, S320, and S420: Step S220-1: Input the first water level change value into the pre-established regression equation of the relationship between the inlet water pressure and the water level change value of the main inlet valve, and calculate the inlet water pressure; Step S220-2: Input the inlet water pressure into the pre-established relationship between the inlet flow rate and the inlet water pressure of each auxiliary inlet valve. The regression equation is used to calculate the second inlet flow rate corresponding to each auxiliary inlet valve; Step S320: Obtain the second inlet time corresponding to opening the auxiliary inlet valve alone, and the third inlet time corresponding to opening the main inlet valve and at least one auxiliary inlet valve at the same time; Step S420: Calculate the total inlet volume of the inlet valve assembly based on the first inlet time, the second inlet time, the third inlet time, the first inlet flow rate, the second inlet flow rate, and the third inlet flow rate corresponding to opening the main inlet valve and at least one auxiliary inlet valve at the same time.

[0010] Furthermore, the process of establishing the regression equation for the relationship between the inlet water pressure and water level change of the main inlet valve includes the following steps: selecting multiple standard inlet water pressures and multiple standard loads for cross-testing; in each cross-test, collecting the first standard water level change value x1 and the inlet water pressure P1 of the main inlet valve formed by water inflow within a set inflow time as detected by the water level sensor; fitting the first standard water level change value x1 and the inlet water pressure P1 of the main inlet valve to obtain the regression equation P1=a2x1 for the relationship between the inlet water pressure and water level change of the main inlet valve. 2 +b2x1+c2; where a2, b2, and c2 are fitting coefficients.

[0011] Furthermore, the process of establishing the regression equation for the relationship between the inlet flow rate and inlet water pressure of each auxiliary inlet valve includes the following steps: selecting multiple standard inlet water pressures; controlling the individual opening of each auxiliary inlet valve under each standard inlet water pressure, collecting the auxiliary standard inlet flow rate of each auxiliary inlet valve within a set inlet time detected by the water level sensor; and fitting the auxiliary standard inlet water pressure P of the nth auxiliary inlet valve. n and auxiliary standard influent flow rate L n The regression equation L for the relationship between the inlet flow rate and inlet water pressure of the nth auxiliary inlet valve is obtained. n =a n+1 P n 2 +b n+1 P n +c n+1 P n =P1; where a n+1 b n+1 c n+1 The fitting coefficients are denoted as .

[0012] Furthermore, the formula for calculating the water consumption W of the washing machine is: Among them, L i T represents the first inlet flow rate of the main inlet valve or the second inlet flow rate corresponding to the nth auxiliary inlet valve; i This indicates the first water inlet time when the main water inlet valve is opened alone, or the second water inlet time corresponding to the opening of the nth auxiliary water inlet valve alone. This represents the set of water inflow rates when either the main inlet valve or the nth auxiliary inlet valve is opened individually. This represents the third inlet flow rate corresponding to the j-th simultaneous opening of the main inlet valve and at least one auxiliary inlet valve; This represents the third water inlet time corresponding to the j-th simultaneous opening of the main water inlet valve and at least one auxiliary water inlet valve; Let J represent the set of water inflows when the main inlet valve and at least one auxiliary inlet valve are opened simultaneously for the jth time; wherein, the third inlet flow rate is equal to the maximum inlet flow rate corresponding to opening the main inlet valve or the auxiliary inlet valve alone.

[0013] Accordingly, the present invention also provides a washing machine water inlet control method, including the following steps S510 and S520: Step S510: Before the washing machine starts to inlet water, the target water volume is determined according to the weight and / or material of the fabric to be washed; Step S520: During the water inlet process of the washing machine, the current water volume is calculated according to the washing machine water volume determination method provided in the first aspect embodiment, and the water inlet ends when the current water volume is equal to the target water volume.

[0014] Accordingly, the present invention also provides a washing machine water replenishment control method, including the following steps S600: Step S600: During the washing process of the washing machine, a target water replenishment amount is determined, and the current water intake amount is calculated according to the washing machine water consumption determination method provided in the first aspect embodiment. When the current water intake amount is equal to the target water replenishment amount, the water replenishment ends.

[0015] Accordingly, the present invention also provides a washing machine operation control method, including the following steps S710, S720 and S730: Step S710: In response to the user selecting a first washing mode, the fabric in the inner drum assembly of the washing machine is weighed to obtain a first weighed mass, wherein the first washing mode is any one of a plurality of candidate washing modes of the washing machine; Step S720: Based on the first weighed mass, the historical water consumption corresponding to the first washing mode is displayed on the display module of the washing machine, wherein the historical water consumption is the water consumption of the washing machine when processing the first weighed mass of fabric in the first washing mode at a historical time; Step S730: In response to the user selecting a washing instruction, the first washing mode is used to process the fabric, and the water consumption is determined using the washing machine water consumption determination method provided according to the embodiment of the first aspect.

[0016] Accordingly, the present invention also provides a washing machine energy consumption assessment method, including the following steps S810 and S820: Step S810: After the washing machine finishes washing, the total water consumption during the complete washing process is calculated according to the washing machine water consumption determination method provided in the first aspect embodiment; Step S820: The energy consumption of the washing machine is assessed based on the total water consumption data of each of one or more washes.

[0017] Accordingly, the present invention also provides an electronic device, comprising: a memory for storing one or more computer instructions; and a processor for calling and executing the computer instructions stored in the memory, thereby implementing the washing machine water consumption determination method provided according to the first aspect embodiment, or the washing machine water inlet control method provided according to the second aspect embodiment, or the washing machine water replenishment control method provided according to the third aspect embodiment, or the washing machine operation control method provided according to the fourth aspect embodiment, or the washing machine energy consumption assessment method provided according to the fifth aspect embodiment.

[0018] Accordingly, the present invention also provides a fabric treatment device, which employs the washing machine water consumption determination method provided according to the first aspect embodiment, or the washing machine water inlet control method provided according to the second aspect embodiment, or the washing machine water replenishment control method provided according to the third aspect embodiment, or the washing machine operation control method provided according to the fourth aspect embodiment, or the washing machine energy consumption assessment method provided according to the fifth aspect embodiment.

[0019] After adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art: A method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine, the washing machine includes an outer drum assembly and a water inlet valve assembly for controlling water intake into the outer drum assembly, and a water level sensor is provided inside the outer drum assembly; the method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine includes the following steps S100, S200, S300 and S400: Step S100: During the water intake process of the washing machine, the detection result of the water level sensor within a set water intake time is obtained, and the water level change value within the set water intake time is determined according to the detection result; Step S200: The water level change value is input into a pre-established regression equation relating water intake flow rate and water level change value, and the water intake flow rate of the water inlet valve assembly is calculated; Step S300: The water intake time of the water inlet valve assembly is obtained; Step S400: The water consumption of the washing machine is calculated according to the water intake time and water intake flow rate.

[0020] The method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine provided by this invention utilizes a water level sensor to detect changes in water level and establishes a regression equation relating the inlet flow rate to the changes in water level through experiments. This method ensures accurate calculation of the washing machine's water consumption without relying on a flow meter.

[0021] In this invention, when establishing the regression equation, multiple standard inlet water pressures and multiple standard loads are selected for cross-testing one by one. This can adapt to different loads and inlet water pressures of the washing machine, eliminate the interference of load and load water absorption on water consumption calculation, and improve the accuracy of calculation.

[0022] When the main inlet valve and at least one auxiliary inlet valve are opened simultaneously, the maximum inlet flow rate corresponding to opening the main inlet valve or the auxiliary inlet valve alone is selected as the third inlet flow rate at the current moment. This can reduce data complexity, avoid redundant calculations, and improve calculation accuracy.

[0023] In this invention, when calculating the auxiliary standard inlet water flow rate, regression equations are established for the relationship between the inlet water pressure and water level change of the main inlet valve, and for the relationship between the inlet water flow rate and inlet water pressure of the nth auxiliary inlet valve. This can eliminate the interference of inlet water pressure on water consumption calculation and improve the accuracy of calculation. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0025] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine according to the present invention; Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine according to the present invention when the water inlet valve assembly includes a main water inlet valve; Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine according to the present invention when the water inlet valve assembly includes a main water inlet valve and at least one auxiliary water inlet valve; Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an electronic device according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present disclosure may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0027] As shown in Figure 1, an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention provides a method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine. The washing machine includes an outer drum assembly and a water inlet valve assembly for controlling water intake into the outer drum assembly. A water level sensor is provided inside the outer drum assembly. The water consumption calculation method provided by the present invention does not rely on a flow meter, which can save costs, avoid the risk of flow meter failure, and thus improve the stability of the washing machine system.

[0028] The method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine includes the following steps S100, S200, S300 and S400: Step S100: During the water intake process of the washing machine, the detection result of the water level sensor within the set water intake time is obtained, and the water level change value within the set water intake time is determined based on the detection result.

[0029] Specifically, because the outer drum assembly of the washing machine is fitted outside the inner drum assembly with a certain gap between them, water will not enter the inner drum assembly for a period of time after water intake begins. Instead, water level changes will only occur in the outer drum assembly. By selecting a set water intake time during this period and calculating water consumption using the water level change value within that time, the influence of the load and water absorption capacity of the inner drum assembly can be avoided.

[0030] Here, the specific duration of the water inlet time is not limited. It can be adjusted according to the actual water inlet situation of different washing machines, based on the time it takes for water to enter the outer drum assembly but not the inner drum assembly. Preferably, the water inlet time is set to 15 seconds after the start of water inlet.

[0031] Step S200: Input the water level change value into the pre-established regression equation relating the inlet flow rate and the water level change value to calculate the inlet flow rate of the inlet valve assembly.

[0032] Step S300: Obtain the water inlet time of the water inlet valve assembly.

[0033] Step S400: Calculate the water consumption of the washing machine based on the water inlet time and water flow rate.

[0034] Specifically, the water inlet flow rate of the inlet valve assembly is multiplied by the corresponding water inlet time to obtain the water inlet volume of the inlet valve assembly; the cumulative water inlet volume of the inlet valve assembly at each stage gives the water consumption of the washing machine; the calculation is simple, and the data that needs to be directly measured only includes the water level change value and the water inlet time, thereby reducing possible errors and improving the accuracy of water consumption calculation.

[0035] The water consumption calculation method provided by this invention uses a water level sensor to detect water level changes and establishes a regression equation for the relationship between inlet flow rate and water level changes through experiments. This method can ensure accurate calculation of washing machine water consumption without relying on a flow meter.

[0036] Preferably, in conjunction with the above scheme, as an embodiment of the present invention, the water inlet valve assembly includes a main water inlet valve.

[0037] As shown in Figure 2, the method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine includes the following steps S110, S210, S310, and S410: Step S110: Obtain the first water level change value formed by water entering the main water inlet valve within a set water inlet time; Step S210: Input the first water level change value into the pre-established regression equation relating the water inlet flow rate and water level change value of the main water inlet valve, and calculate the first water inlet flow rate of the main water inlet valve; Step S310: Obtain the first water inlet time of the main water inlet valve; Step S410: Calculate the water inlet volume of the main water inlet valve based on the first water inlet time and the first water inlet flow rate.

[0038] Preferably, in conjunction with the above scheme, as an embodiment of the present invention, the process of establishing the regression equation of the relationship between the inlet flow rate of the main inlet valve and the water level change value includes the following steps: First, select multiple standard inlet water pressures and multiple standard loads for cross-testing one by one.

[0039] Specifically, multiple different standard inlet water pressures are selected, such as 0.05MPa, 0.1MPa, 0.15MPa, 0.2MPa, 0.25MPa, and 0.3MPa; and different loads are set under each standard inlet water pressure, such as 0kg, 1kg, 3kg, 5kg, 7kg, and 10kg, to cover various usage scenarios of the washing machine. This can adapt to different loads and inlet water pressures of the washing machine, eliminate the interference of load and water absorption on water consumption calculation, and improve the accuracy of calculation.

[0040] Secondly, in each cross-test, the water level sensor detects the first standard water level change value x1 and the first standard inlet flow rate L1 formed by the main inlet valve within the set inlet time.

[0041] During the data collection process, it is necessary to ensure that the washing machine is in standard operating condition to avoid interference with the data collection results from other water intake or drainage operations; the first standard water intake flow rate L1 can be measured using experimental equipment such as a water flow meter.

[0042] Finally, the collected first standard water level change value x1 and first standard influent flow rate L1 were compiled into a structured dataset. Using the least squares method or other regression analysis methods, the first standard water level change value x1 and first standard influent flow rate L1 under various standard influent water pressures and standard loads were fitted to obtain the regression equation L1=a1x1 for the relationship between the influent flow rate and water level change value of the main influent valve. 2 +b1x1+c1, where a1, b1, and c1 are the fitting coefficients.

[0043] Preferably, the unit of the first standard inlet flow rate L1 is L / min, and the unit of the first standard water level change value x1 represents the water level change value within the set inlet time, which is kHz. The regression equation for the relationship between the inlet flow rate and the water level change value of the main inlet valve adopts a quadratic equation, which can effectively reflect the relationship between the first standard water level change value x1 and the first standard inlet flow rate L1 of the main inlet valve when the water is introduced to the target inlet water level, while reducing the amount of calculation.

[0044] Preferably, in conjunction with the above scheme, as an embodiment of the present invention, the inlet valve assembly further includes multiple auxiliary inlet valves that can be independently controlled to open / close.

[0045] As shown in Figure 3, the method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine includes the following steps: S220-1, S220-2, S320 and S420. Step S220-1: Input the first water level change value into the pre-established regression equation of the relationship between the inlet water pressure and the water level change value of the main inlet valve, and calculate the inlet water pressure.

[0046] Step S220-2: Input the inlet water pressure into the pre-established regression equation of the relationship between the inlet flow rate and the inlet water pressure of each auxiliary inlet valve, and calculate the second inlet flow rate corresponding to each auxiliary inlet valve.

[0047] Step S320: Obtain the second water inlet time corresponding to opening the auxiliary water inlet valve alone, and the third water inlet time corresponding to opening the main water inlet valve and at least one auxiliary water inlet valve simultaneously.

[0048] Step S420: Calculate the total water intake of the inlet valve assembly based on the first water intake time, the second water intake time, the third water intake time, the first water intake flow rate, the second water intake flow rate, and the third water intake flow rate corresponding to the simultaneous opening of the main water intake valve and at least one auxiliary water intake valve.

[0049] Preferably, in conjunction with the above scheme, as an embodiment of the present invention, the process of establishing the regression equation for the relationship between the inlet water pressure and the water level change value of the main inlet valve includes the following steps: First, select multiple standard inlet water pressures and multiple standard loads for cross-testing one by one to cover various usage scenarios of the washing machine, which can adapt to different loads and inlet water pressures of the washing machine, eliminate the interference of load and load water absorption on water consumption calculation, and improve the calculation accuracy.

[0050] Specifically, multiple different standard inlet water pressures are selected, such as 0.05MPa, 0.1MPa, 0.15MPa, 0.2MPa, 0.25MPa, and 0.3MPa; and different loads are set under each standard inlet water pressure, such as 0kg, 1kg, 3kg, 5kg, 7kg, and 10kg, to cover various usage scenarios of the washing machine. This can adapt to different loads and inlet water pressures of the washing machine, eliminate the interference of load and water absorption on water consumption calculation, and improve the accuracy of calculation.

[0051] Secondly, in each cross-test, the water level sensor detects the first standard water level change value x1 formed by the main water inlet valve and the water pressure P1 of the main water inlet valve within the set water inlet time.

[0052] During the data collection process, it is necessary to ensure that the washing machine is in standard operating condition to avoid interference with the data collection results from other water inlet or drainage operations; the water pressure P1 of the main water inlet valve can be measured by a pressure sensor.

[0053] Finally, the collected first standard water level change value x1 and the inlet water pressure P1 of the main inlet valve were compiled into a structured dataset. Using the least squares method or other regression analysis methods, the first standard water level change value x1 and the inlet water pressure P1 of the main inlet valve under various standard inlet water pressures and standard loads were fitted to obtain the regression equation P1=a2x1 for the relationship between the inlet water pressure and water level change value of the main inlet valve. 2 +b2x1+c2, where a2, b2, and c2 are the fitting coefficients.

[0054] Preferably, the unit of the inlet water pressure P1 of the main inlet valve is Pa, and the unit of the first standard water level change value x1 is kHz; the regression equation for the relationship between the inlet water pressure and the water level change value of the main inlet valve adopts a quadratic equation, which can effectively reflect the relationship between the first standard water level change value x1 and the inlet water pressure P1 of the main inlet valve when the water is introduced to the target inlet water level, while reducing the amount of calculation.

[0055] Preferably, in conjunction with the above scheme, as an embodiment of the present invention, the process of establishing the regression equation of the relationship between the inlet flow rate and the inlet water pressure of each auxiliary inlet valve includes the following steps: First, select multiple standard inlet water pressures to cover various usage scenarios of the washing machine, which can adapt to different inlet water pressures of the washing machine, eliminate the interference of inlet water pressure on water consumption calculation, and improve the calculation accuracy.

[0056] Secondly, under each standard inlet water pressure, each auxiliary inlet valve is numbered n=1, 2, 3...; the nth auxiliary inlet valve is opened individually, and the auxiliary standard inlet flow rate of the nth auxiliary inlet valve is collected by the water level sensor within the set inlet time.

[0057] During the data collection process, it is necessary to ensure that the washing machine is in standard operating condition to avoid interference with the data collection results from other water intake or drainage operations; the auxiliary standard water intake flow rate can be measured using experimental equipment such as a water flow meter.

[0058] Finally, the auxiliary standard inlet water pressure P of the nth auxiliary inlet valve will be collected. n and auxiliary standard influent flow rate L n Organize the data into a structured dataset, and use the least squares method or other regression analysis methods to analyze the auxiliary standard inlet water pressure P of the nth auxiliary inlet valve under various standard inlet water pressures and standard loads. n and auxiliary standard influent flow rate L n By fitting the data, the regression equation L for the relationship between the inlet flow rate and inlet water pressure of the nth auxiliary inlet valve is obtained. n =a n+1 P n 2 +b n+1 P n +c n+1 a n+1 b n+1 c n+1 The fitting coefficients are denoted as .

[0059] Specifically, when each auxiliary inlet valve is opened individually, the inlet water pressure of each inlet valve is the same as the inlet water pressure of the main inlet valve, i.e., P. n =P1, therefore the auxiliary standard influent flow rate L can be calculated. n .

[0060] Preferably, the auxiliary standard influent flow rate L n The unit is L / min, and the auxiliary standard inlet water pressure is P. n The unit is Pa; the regression equation for the relationship between the inlet flow rate and inlet water pressure of the nth auxiliary inlet valve adopts a quadratic equation, which effectively reflects the auxiliary standard inlet water pressure P of the nth auxiliary inlet valve when the inlet water reaches the target inlet water level, while reducing the amount of calculation. n and auxiliary standard influent flow rate L n The relationship between them.

[0061] It is understood that, when calculating the auxiliary standard inlet water flow rate, this invention takes into account the influence of inlet water pressure and establishes regression equations for the relationship between inlet water pressure and water level change of the main inlet valve, as well as regression equations for the relationship between inlet water flow rate and inlet water pressure of the nth auxiliary inlet valve. This can eliminate the interference of inlet water pressure on water consumption calculation and improve calculation accuracy.

[0062] Furthermore, to further improve the adaptability and accuracy of the regression equations, multiple regression equations can be established for different water pressure ranges to adapt to more complex inlet water pressure conditions and improve calculation accuracy. For example, regression equations can be established for low, medium, and high water pressure to facilitate extended applications to drum-type and washer-dryer combos.

[0063] Preferably, in conjunction with the above scheme, as an embodiment of the present invention, the formula for calculating the water consumption W of the washing machine is: Among them, L i T represents the first inlet flow rate of the main inlet valve or the second inlet flow rate corresponding to the nth auxiliary inlet valve; i This indicates the first water inlet time when the main water inlet valve is opened alone, or the second water inlet time corresponding to the opening of the nth auxiliary water inlet valve alone. This represents the set of water inflow rates when either the main inlet valve or the nth auxiliary inlet valve is opened individually. This represents the third inlet flow rate corresponding to the j-th simultaneous opening of the main inlet valve and at least one auxiliary inlet valve; This represents the third water inlet time corresponding to the j-th simultaneous opening of the main water inlet valve and at least one auxiliary water inlet valve; This represents the set of water inflows when the main inlet valve and at least one auxiliary inlet valve are opened simultaneously for the j-th time.

[0064] When the main inlet valve and at least one auxiliary inlet valve are opened simultaneously, the total flow rate of the inlet valve assembly is closest to the maximum inlet flow rate corresponding to opening the main inlet valve or the auxiliary inlet valve alone. Selecting the maximum inlet flow rate as the third inlet flow rate at the current moment can reduce data complexity and keep the error within a reasonable range.

[0065] Specifically, selecting the maximum inlet flow rate as the third inlet flow rate when the main inlet valve and at least one auxiliary inlet valve are opened simultaneously can avoid repeated calculations and errors caused by the superposition of inlet flow rates, thereby improving the accuracy of calculations. This makes it suitable for complex control scenarios and can calculate the water consumption of a washing machine system in which the main inlet valve and multiple auxiliary inlet valves work together.

[0066] Understandably, it is also possible to directly collect the changes in combined inlet flow rate under different combinations of main inlet valve and auxiliary inlet valve at various inlet water pressures, and obtain the regression equations of the relationship between combined inlet flow rate and combined inlet water pressure. The combined inlet flow rate can be used to replace the third inlet flow rate for calculation, making the calculation results more accurate, but it will increase the amount of calculation.

[0067] Accordingly, in conjunction with the above scheme, as an application scenario of the washing machine water consumption determination method, the present invention also provides a washing machine water inlet control method, including the following steps S510 and S520: Step S510: Before the washing machine starts to inlet water, the target water consumption is determined according to the weight and / or material of the fabric to be washed.

[0068] Step S520: During the water intake process of the washing machine, the current water intake is calculated according to the washing machine water consumption determination method provided in the first aspect embodiment. When the current water intake is equal to the target water consumption, the water intake ends.

[0069] This ensures that the current water intake of the washing machine can be accurately controlled based on the target water consumption without relying on a flow meter.

[0070] Accordingly, in conjunction with the above scheme, as an application scenario of the washing machine water consumption determination method, the present invention also provides a washing machine water replenishment control method, including the following steps S600: Step S600: During the washing process of the washing machine, the target water replenishment amount is determined, and the current water intake amount is calculated according to the washing machine water consumption determination method provided in the first aspect embodiment. When the current water intake amount is equal to the target water replenishment amount, the water replenishment ends.

[0071] This ensures that the current water intake of the washing machine can be accurately controlled based on the target water replenishment volume without relying on a flow meter.

[0072] Accordingly, in conjunction with the above scheme, as an application scenario of the washing machine water consumption determination method, the present invention also provides a washing machine operation control method, including the following steps S710, S720 and S730: Step S710: In response to the user selecting a first washing mode, the fabric in the inner drum assembly of the washing machine is weighed to obtain a first weighing mass, wherein the first washing mode is any one of a plurality of candidate washing modes of the washing machine.

[0073] Step S720: Based on the first weighed mass, display the historical water consumption corresponding to the first washing mode on the display module of the washing machine. The historical water consumption is the water consumption of the washing machine when processing the first weighed mass of fabric in the first washing mode at a historical time.

[0074] Step S730: In response to the user's selection of a washing instruction, the fabric is treated using a first washing mode, and the water consumption is determined using the washing machine water consumption determination method provided according to the embodiment of the first aspect.

[0075] This ensures accurate calculation of washing machine water consumption without relying on a flow meter.

[0076] Accordingly, in conjunction with the above scheme, as an application scenario of the washing machine water consumption determination method, the present invention also provides a washing machine energy consumption assessment method, including the following steps S810 and S820: Step S810: After the washing machine finishes washing, the total water consumption during the complete washing process is calculated according to the washing machine water consumption determination method provided in the first aspect embodiment.

[0077] Step S820: Evaluate the energy consumption of the washing machine based on the total water consumption data for each of one or more washes.

[0078] This ensures that the energy consumption of the washing machine can be accurately assessed based on its water usage without relying on a flow meter.

[0079] Accordingly, in conjunction with the above solutions, as shown in Figure 4, the present invention also provides an electronic device, including a memory and a processor. The memory is used to store one or more computer instructions; the processor is used to call and execute the computer instructions stored in the memory, thereby realizing the washing machine water consumption determination method provided according to the first aspect embodiment, or the washing machine water inlet control method provided according to the second aspect embodiment, or the washing machine water replenishment control method provided according to the third aspect embodiment, or the washing machine operation control method provided according to the fourth aspect embodiment, or the washing machine energy consumption assessment method provided according to the fifth aspect embodiment.

[0080] The memory includes, but is not limited to: RAM, ROM, magnetic disks, magnetic tapes, optical discs, flash memory, USB flash drives, portable hard drives, memory cards, memory sticks, network server storage, and network cloud storage. The processor 131 includes, but is not limited to, CPUs (Central Processing Units), GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), and MCUs (Microprocessors).

[0081] Accordingly, in conjunction with the above solutions, the present invention also provides a fabric treatment device. The fabric treatment device adopts the washing machine water consumption determination method provided in the first aspect embodiment, or the washing machine water inlet control method provided in the second aspect embodiment, or the washing machine water replenishment control method provided in the third aspect embodiment, or the washing machine operation control method provided in the fourth aspect embodiment, or the washing machine energy consumption assessment method provided in the fifth aspect embodiment, which can ensure that the water consumption of the fabric treatment device is accurately obtained without relying on a flow meter.

[0082] Various embodiments of the systems and techniques described above herein can be implemented in digital electronic circuit systems, integrated circuit systems, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), application-specific standard products (ASSPs), systems-on-a-chip (SoCs), payload-programmable logic devices (CPLDs), computer hardware, firmware, software, and / or combinations thereof. These various embodiments may include implementations in one or more computer programs that can be executed and / or interpreted on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which may be a dedicated or general-purpose programmable processor, capable of receiving data and instructions from a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device, and transmitting data and instructions to the storage system, the at least one input device, and the at least one output device.

[0083] The program code used to implement the methods of this disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. This program code may be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus, such that when executed by the processor or controller, the program code causes the functions / operations specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams to be implemented. The program code may be executed entirely on a machine, partially on a machine, as a standalone software package partially on a machine and partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0084] To provide interaction with a user, the systems and techniques described herein can be implemented on a computer having: a display device for displaying information to the user (e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor); and a keyboard and pointing device (e.g., a mouse or trackball) through which the user provides input to the computer. Other types of devices can also be used to provide interaction with the user; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback); and input from the user can be received in any form (including sound input, voice input, or tactile input).

[0085] The systems and technologies described herein can be implemented in computing systems that include backend components (e.g., as a data server), or computing systems that include middleware components (e.g., an application server), or computing systems that include frontend components (e.g., a user computer with a graphical user interface or web browser through which a user can interact with implementations of the systems and technologies described herein), or any combination of such backend, middleware, or frontend components. The components of the system can be interconnected via digital data communication of any form or medium (e.g., a communication network). Examples of communication networks include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and the Internet.

[0086] Computer systems can include clients and servers. Clients and servers are generally located far apart and typically interact via communication networks. Client-server relationships are created by computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship with each other. Servers can be cloud servers, servers in distributed systems, or servers incorporating blockchain technology.

[0087] It should be understood that the various forms of processes shown above can be used to rearrange, add, or delete steps. For example, the steps described in this disclosure can be executed in parallel, sequentially, or in different orders, as long as the desired result of the technical solution disclosed in this disclosure can be achieved, and this is not limited herein.

[0088] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not constitute any limitation on the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make many possible variations and modifications to the technical solution of the present invention, or modify it into equivalent embodiments, without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, any modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technology of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention are within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine, characterized in that, The washing machine includes an outer drum assembly and a water inlet valve assembly for controlling water intake into the outer drum assembly. A water level sensor is installed inside the outer drum assembly. The method for determining the washing machine's water consumption includes: during the water intake process, acquiring the detection result of the water level sensor within a set water intake time period; determining the water level change value within the set water intake time period based on the detection result; inputting the water level change value into a pre-established regression equation relating water intake flow rate and water level change value to calculate the water intake flow rate of the water inlet valve assembly; acquiring the water intake time of the water inlet valve assembly; and calculating the washing machine's water consumption based on the water intake time and the water intake flow rate.

2. The method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water inlet valve assembly includes a main water inlet valve; the method for determining the water consumption of the washing machine includes: obtaining a first water level change value formed by water entering the main water inlet valve within the set water inlet time; inputting the first water level change value into a pre-established regression equation relating the water inlet flow rate and water level change value of the main water inlet valve to calculate the first water inlet flow rate of the main water inlet valve; obtaining a first water inlet time of the main water inlet valve; and calculating the water inlet volume of the main water inlet valve based on the first water inlet time and the first water inlet flow rate.

3. The method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The process of establishing the regression equation for the relationship between the inlet flow rate and water level change of the main inlet valve includes: selecting multiple standard inlet water pressures and multiple standard loads for cross-testing; in each cross-test, collecting the first standard water level change value x1 and the first standard inlet flow rate L1 formed by the main inlet valve during the set inlet time detected by the water level sensor; fitting the first standard water level change value x1 and the first standard inlet flow rate L1 to obtain the regression equation L1=a1x1 for the relationship between the inlet flow rate and water level change of the main inlet valve. 2 +b1x1+c1; where a1, b1, and c1 are fitting coefficients.

4. The method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The inlet valve assembly also includes multiple auxiliary inlet valves that can be independently controlled to open / close; the washing machine water consumption determination method includes: inputting the first water level change value into a pre-established regression equation relating the inlet water pressure and water level change value of the main inlet valve to calculate the inlet water pressure; inputting the inlet water pressure into a pre-established regression equation relating the inlet flow rate and inlet water pressure of each auxiliary inlet valve to calculate the second inlet flow rate corresponding to each auxiliary inlet valve; obtaining the second inlet time corresponding to opening the auxiliary inlet valve alone, and the third inlet time corresponding to opening the main inlet valve and at least one auxiliary inlet valve simultaneously; and calculating the total inlet water volume of the inlet valve assembly based on the first inlet time, the second inlet time, the third inlet time, the first inlet flow rate, the second inlet flow rate, and the third inlet flow rate corresponding to opening the main inlet valve and at least one auxiliary inlet valve simultaneously.

5. The method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The process of establishing the regression equation for the relationship between the inlet water pressure and water level change of the main inlet valve includes: selecting multiple standard inlet water pressures and multiple standard loads for cross-testing; in each cross-test, collecting the first standard water level change value x1 and the inlet water pressure P1 of the main inlet valve formed by water intake within the set inlet time detected by the water level sensor; fitting the first standard water level change value x1 and the inlet water pressure P1 of the main inlet valve to obtain the regression equation P1=a2x1 for the relationship between the inlet water pressure and water level change of the main inlet valve. 2 +b2x1+c2; where a2, b2, and c2 are fitting coefficients.

6. The method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The process for establishing the regression equation for the relationship between the inlet flow rate and inlet water pressure of each auxiliary inlet valve includes: selecting multiple standard inlet water pressures; controlling the individual opening of each auxiliary inlet valve under each standard inlet water pressure, collecting the auxiliary standard inlet flow rate of each auxiliary inlet valve within the set inlet time detected by the water level sensor; and fitting the auxiliary standard inlet water pressure P of the nth auxiliary inlet valve. n and auxiliary standard influent flow rate L n The regression equation L for the relationship between the inlet flow rate and inlet water pressure of the nth auxiliary inlet valve is obtained. n =a n+1 P n 2 +b n+1 P n +c n+1 P n =P1; where a n+1 b n+1 c n+1 The fitting coefficients are denoted as .

7. The method for determining the water consumption of a washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The formula for calculating the water consumption W of the washing machine is: ; among which, L i T represents the first inlet flow rate of the main inlet valve or the second inlet flow rate corresponding to the nth auxiliary inlet valve; i This indicates the first water inlet time when the main water inlet valve is opened alone, or the second water inlet time corresponding to the opening of the nth auxiliary water inlet valve alone. This represents the set of water inflow rates when either the main inlet valve or the nth auxiliary inlet valve is opened individually. This indicates the third inlet flow rate corresponding to the j-th simultaneous opening of the main inlet valve and at least one of the auxiliary inlet valves; This indicates the third water inlet time corresponding to the j-th simultaneous opening of the main water inlet valve and at least one of the auxiliary water inlet valves; This represents the set of water inflow rates when the main inlet valve and at least one of the auxiliary inlet valves are opened simultaneously for the jth time; wherein, the third inlet flow rate is equal to the maximum inlet flow rate corresponding to opening the main inlet valve or the auxiliary inlet valve alone.

8. A method for controlling water inlet in a washing machine, characterized in that, include: Before the washing machine starts filling with water, the target water consumption is determined based on the weight and / or material of the fabric to be washed; during the water filling process, the current water consumption is calculated according to the water consumption determination method of any one of claims 1 to 7, and the water filling ends when the current water consumption is equal to the target water consumption.

9. A method for controlling water replenishment in a washing machine, characterized in that, include: During the washing machine washing process, a target water replenishment amount is determined, and the current water intake amount is calculated according to the washing machine water consumption determination method according to any one of claims 1 to 7. When the current water intake amount is equal to the target water replenishment amount, the water replenishment ends.

10. A method for controlling the operation of a washing machine, characterized in that, include: In response to the user selecting a first washing mode, the fabric inside the inner drum assembly of the washing machine is weighed to obtain a first weighed mass, wherein the first washing mode is any one of a plurality of candidate washing modes of the washing machine; based on the first weighed mass, the historical water consumption corresponding to the first washing mode is displayed on the display module of the washing machine, wherein the historical water consumption is the water consumption of the washing machine when processing the fabric with the first weighed mass in the first washing mode at a historical time; in response to the user selecting a washing instruction, the fabric is processed using the first washing mode, and the water consumption is determined using the washing machine water consumption determination method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

11. A method for assessing the energy consumption of a washing machine, characterized in that, include: After the washing machine finishes washing, the total water consumption during the complete washing process is calculated according to the washing machine water consumption determination method according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The energy consumption of the washing machine is assessed based on the total water consumption data for each of one or more washes.

12. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: A memory for storing one or more computer instructions; a processor for calling and executing the computer instructions stored in the memory to implement the washing machine water consumption determination method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, or the washing machine water inlet control method according to claim 8, or the washing machine water replenishment control method according to claim 9, or the washing machine operation control method according to claim 10, or the washing machine energy consumption assessment method according to claim 11.

13. A fabric treatment device, characterized in that, The fabric treatment equipment adopts the washing machine water consumption determination method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, or the washing machine water inlet control method according to claim 8, or the washing machine water replenishment control method according to claim 9, or the washing machine operation control method according to claim 10, or the washing machine energy consumption assessment method according to claim 11.

Images