Washing apparatus, control method therefor, control device, and storage medium
By acquiring and analyzing light intensity signals in washing equipment, machine learning is used to determine the risk of tangling and perform untangling operations, thus solving the problems of clothing tangling and wear and tear, achieving early prevention of clothing tangling, and protecting clothing and equipment.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- TCL HOME APPLIANCES (HEFEI) CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-09
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-02
AI Technical Summary
Existing washing equipment is prone to causing clothes to tangle and wear during the washing process. Current anti-tangling methods are mostly remedial measures after the fact, which are difficult and time-consuming, and can easily cause wear and tear on clothes.
By acquiring light intensity signals inside the washing drum, analyzing and processing the characteristic information of the light intensity signals, using machine learning algorithms to determine the level of tangling risk, and performing corresponding untangling operations based on the level, including adjusting motor speed and water flow intensity.
The risk can be detected before clothes tangling fully occurs, allowing for timely intervention, reducing the likelihood of tangling, minimizing wear and tear, and extending the lifespan of both clothes and the washing machine.
Smart Images

Figure CN122128884A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application belongs to the technical field of clothing processing equipment, and in particular relates to a washing device and its control method, control device and storage medium. Background Technology
[0002] In related technologies, washing machines typically use agitation or tumbling to clean residual dirt and stains from clothes. However, during actual washing, due to varying spin speeds for different types of clothing and smaller loads, clothes can easily become tangled or even damaged. Most existing anti-tangling methods are reactive, meaning they are usually implemented only after the clothes have become tangled. At this point, untangling is not only difficult and time-consuming, but it can also cause wear and tear on the clothes. Summary of the Invention
[0003] This application provides a washing device and its control method, control apparatus and storage medium to solve the problem of clothes easily getting tangled and worn during the washing process of existing washing devices.
[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a control method for a washing device, including: In response to a preset command, the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum is acquired; The light intensity signal is analyzed and processed to extract the feature information of the light intensity signal changing over time; Based on the aforementioned feature information, the risk level of entanglement of the clothes inside the washing drum is determined; Based on the level of entanglement risk, the washing equipment is controlled to perform the corresponding untangling operation.
[0005] In some embodiments of this application, the step of analyzing and processing the light intensity signal to extract the feature information of the light intensity signal changing over time includes: Calculate the statistical characteristics of the light intensity signal within a preset time window, wherein the statistical characteristics include at least one of variance, peak-to-peak value, and zero-crossing rate; And / or, perform frequency domain transformation on the light intensity signal to extract the frequency domain features of the light intensity signal, the frequency domain features being used to characterize the fluctuation period of the light intensity.
[0006] In some embodiments of this application, determining the entanglement risk level of the laundry in the washing tub based on the feature information includes: The feature information is input into a preset classification model to obtain the water flow state classification result; wherein, the preset classification model is obtained by training the sample light intensity data based on a machine learning algorithm, and the sample light intensity data is labeled with different water flow states; Based on the water flow state classification results, the entanglement risk level is determined.
[0007] In some embodiments of this application, determining the entanglement risk level based on the water flow state classification result includes: If the water flow is in a stable state, the entanglement risk level is determined to be no risk. If the water flow is in a weak flow state, the entanglement risk level is determined to be a slight risk. If the water flow is stagnant, the entanglement risk level is determined to be severe.
[0008] In some embodiments of this application, controlling the washing equipment to perform a corresponding untangling operation based on the entanglement risk level includes: If the entanglement risk level is low, the washing equipment is controlled to perform a first untangling step; When the entanglement risk level is severe, the washing equipment is controlled to perform a second untangling step; wherein the frequency and intensity of the second untangling step are higher than those of the first untangling step.
[0009] In some embodiments of this application, controlling the washing device to perform the first untangling step includes: The washing equipment is controlled to perform a first-level intervention operation; the first-level intervention operation includes shortening the forward / reverse switching cycle of the washing equipment; and / or increasing the motor speed to enhance the water flow impact force; Reassess the entanglement risk level; If the risk level of entanglement is reassessed as no risk, the washing equipment is controlled to resume the normal washing program. If the reassessed risk level of entanglement is determined to be either mild or severe, the washing equipment is controlled to perform a secondary intervention operation. The secondary intervention operation includes controlling the washing drum to reduce its rotation speed and intermittently reversing forward and reverse; and / or injecting water into the washing drum and shaking the clothes to disperse them.
[0010] In some embodiments of this application, before acquiring the light intensity signal of the water flow in the washing drum in response to a preset command, the control method further includes: Obtain the real-time current of the motor of the washing equipment during operation; If the real-time current exceeds a preset current threshold range, the washing device is controlled to generate the preset command.
[0011] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a control device for a washing machine, the control device comprising: The acquisition module is used to acquire the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum in response to a preset command; The extraction module analyzes and processes the light intensity signal to extract the feature information of the light intensity signal changing over time. The judgment module is used to determine the entanglement risk level of the clothes in the washing drum based on the feature information; The control module is used to control the washing equipment to perform the corresponding untangling operation based on the entanglement risk level.
[0012] Thirdly, embodiments of this application also provide a washing device, including: The washing drum is equipped with a photoelectric sensor, which is configured to acquire the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum. A motor is configured to drive the washing drum to rotate; The controller is electrically connected to the photoelectric sensor and the motor, and the controller is configured to perform the control method of the washing equipment described in the above embodiments.
[0013] Fourthly, embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the control method for the washing equipment as described in the above embodiments.
[0014] The control method for a washing machine provided in this application includes, in response to a preset command, acquiring the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum; analyzing and processing the light intensity signal to extract feature information of the light intensity signal changing over time; determining the entanglement risk level of the clothes inside the washing drum based on the feature information; and controlling the washing machine to perform a corresponding untangling operation based on the entanglement risk level. By acquiring the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum and analyzing the feature information of the light intensity signal changing over time, the operating state of the clothes and water flow can be inferred. Since the light intensity signal is extremely sensitive to minute changes in the water flow state, when clothes show a tendency to become entangled, the water flow will be disturbed, which will then be reflected in the fluctuation characteristics of the light intensity signal. This method can detect the risk before the clothes are fully entangled, thereby intervening in advance, reducing the possibility of clothes entanglement from the source, effectively reducing physical wear and tear on the clothes, and extending the service life of the clothes and the washing machine.
[0015] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description
[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0017] To gain a more complete understanding of this application and its beneficial effects, the following description will be provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals denote the same parts.
[0018] Figure 1 A flowchart illustrating the control method for the washing equipment provided in this application embodiment. Figure 1 .
[0019] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating the control method for the washing equipment provided in this application embodiment. Figure 2 .
[0020] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the control device for the washing equipment provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the motor current sampling module provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0022] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the photoelectric sensor module provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0023] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation
[0024] The embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are used to illustrate this application, but should not be used to limit the scope of this application.
[0025] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.
[0026] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application based on the specific circumstances.
[0027] In the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.
[0028] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.
[0029] In existing technologies, washing machines typically use methods such as agitation or tumbling to clean residual dirt and stains from clothes. However, during actual washing, factors such as different rotation speeds for different types of clothing and the amount of laundry can easily lead to clothes tangling or even damage. Related solutions effectively reduce the risk of tangling by reducing motor speed, water volume, or low-speed shaking; however, these measures are essentially remedial measures after tangling has already occurred.
[0030] Based on the above problems, this application, according to the operating rules of washing machines, combines indirect measurement using motors and sensors with an intelligent algorithm system. It infers the operating status of the load of clothes inside the drum by relying on changes in the feedback signal of the motor current. Simultaneously, it uses photoelectric sensors to collect light intensity signals reflecting the water flow inside the drum, determining whether there is a risk of clothes tangling, and thus intervening in time to prevent tangling. This method can effectively act in advance when clothes are about to tangle, reducing the possibility of tangling at its source.
[0031] This application provides a washing device, its control method, control apparatus, and storage medium to solve the problems of clothes easily tangling and wearing out during the washing process in existing washing devices. The following will be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Figures 1-6 Please provide an explanation.
[0032] The control method for the washing equipment provided in this application embodiment is referenced. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, it includes: S101: In response to a preset command, acquire the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum; In this embodiment, the controller of the washing equipment receives a preset command. This preset command can be automatically triggered at a specific stage after the washing program starts, or it can be triggered when specific conditions are met. In response to the preset command, the washing equipment activates the photoelectric sensor installed in the washing drum. Optionally, the photoelectric sensor can be installed on the outer drum door seal, the glass window, or the drum wall.
[0033] A photoelectric sensor emits light into the washing drum and receives light that has been refracted, transmitted, or reflected back by the water flow inside the drum, as well as by the clothes and water. This converts the light signal into an electrical signal, which the controller samples to obtain continuously changing light intensity data over time. By acquiring this light intensity signal, the invisible and complex movements of clothes and fluids inside the washing drum can be transformed into quantifiable electrical signal data. Compared to other signal data, light intensity signals more directly reflect the changes in the microscopic physical state of the water flow and the surface of the clothes, providing an accurate data basis for subsequent precise determination of whether clothes are tangled.
[0034] S102: Analyze and process the light intensity signal to extract the characteristic information of the light intensity signal changing over time; In one optional implementation, the light intensity signal is analyzed and processed to extract the characteristic information of the light intensity signal changing over time, including calculating the statistical characteristics of the light intensity signal within a preset time window. The statistical characteristics include at least one of variance, peak-to-peak value, and zero-crossing rate. In another optional implementation, the light intensity signal is subjected to frequency domain transformation to extract the frequency domain characteristics of the light intensity signal. The frequency domain characteristics are used to characterize the fluctuation period of the light intensity.
[0035] Understandably, since raw light intensity signals typically contain a lot of noise and are quite cluttered, direct judgment is difficult. Therefore, the controller preprocesses and analyzes the acquired light intensity signals.
[0036] Specifically, the controller calculates the statistical characteristics of the light intensity signal within a preset time window, such as the past 2, 5, or 10 seconds. These characteristics include, but are not limited to, variance, peak-to-peak value, and zero-crossing rate. Variance characterizes the dispersion of the light intensity signal data relative to its average value within the preset time window. A larger variance indicates more drastic fluctuations in the light intensity signal, while a smaller variance indicates a more stable signal. The peak-to-peak value characterizes the difference between the maximum and minimum values of the light intensity signal within the preset time window, reflecting the overall range of amplitude variation. The zero-crossing rate characterizes the number of times the light intensity signal waveform crosses zero within the time window, reflecting the speed of signal change and frequency characteristics.
[0037] The controller can select to calculate one of the above statistical features or combine multiple statistical features according to actual needs to form a feature vector describing the characteristics of the current light intensity signal.
[0038] Furthermore, the controller can perform frequency domain transformation on the light intensity signal to extract its frequency domain features. Specifically, the controller can use algorithms such as Fourier transform to convert the time-varying light intensity signal into a frequency-varying spectrum. In the spectrum, the controller extracts frequency domain features, which are mainly used to characterize the fluctuation period of the light intensity. For example, the controller can analyze the main frequency components where energy is concentrated in the spectrum; this dominant frequency corresponds to the cycle of clothes or water tumbling and beating in the washing drum. The controller can also monitor the energy distribution within specific frequency bands to determine whether there are low-frequency fluctuations that are in sync with the motor speed.
[0039] Frequency domain transformation can separate the periodic motion components of a signal from random noise, accurately identifying the basic cycle of clothing tumbling even when light intensity is affected by external stray light or localized foam obstruction. When clothing becomes entangled, its motion changes from chaotic tumbling to regular eccentric rotation, a change manifested as a significant alteration in the spectral composition in the frequency domain. By characterizing the fluctuation cycle, it is possible to accurately distinguish whether the clothing is in a normal tumbling state or has undergone overall eccentric rotation, thus greatly improving the accuracy of entanglement detection.
[0040] S103: Based on feature information, determine the risk level of tangling of clothes in the washing drum; In this step, the controller matches the extracted feature information with preset judgment criteria or models to determine the current entanglement risk level.
[0041] For example, the controller can input feature information into a pre-trained machine learning classification model. This model, trained using a large amount of labeled sample data, can identify the nonlinear mapping relationship between feature information and water flow state. Based on the model's output, the controller classifies the risk level into, for example, no risk, slight risk, or severe risk.
[0042] In this embodiment, risk level judgment is made based on feature information, which realizes quantitative assessment and classification of the entanglement state, distinguishes the degree of risk of clothing entanglement, and provides a basis for decision-making for subsequent targeted untangling intervention measures.
[0043] In one optional implementation, determining the entanglement risk level of clothes in a washing drum based on feature information includes: inputting the feature information into a preset classification model to obtain a water flow state classification result; wherein the preset classification model is obtained by training sample light intensity data based on a machine learning algorithm, and the sample light intensity data is labeled with different water flow states; and determining the entanglement risk level based on the water flow state classification result.
[0044] In this embodiment, the washing equipment uses machine learning algorithms to intelligently identify the state inside the washing drum, rather than simply relying on manually set fixed thresholds for judgment.
[0045] Specifically, the controller is pre-configured with a preset classification model, which has been trained on a large amount of data. The training process includes collecting a large amount of sample light intensity data under different washing scenarios. This data covers light intensity signal changes under different loads, materials, water levels, and operating conditions. These sample data are labeled and given different water flow state labels. Machine learning algorithms are then used to learn from this labeled data to construct a mapping relationship between the feature information of the light intensity signal and the water flow state.
[0046] During the actual operation of the washing equipment, the controller inputs the real-time extracted feature information into the preset classification model. The model performs calculations and outputs the water flow state classification result corresponding to the current light intensity signal. Finally, the controller maps and determines the entanglement risk level of clothing based on the water flow state output by the model. This method boasts high accuracy and strong adaptability, capable of handling various complex load conditions and washing environments. It avoids false alarms and erroneous interventions during normal washing, ensuring the continuity of the washing process. Simultaneously, it can quickly identify and promptly handle entanglement, thereby maximizing clothing protection and enhancing the user experience.
[0047] In one optional implementation, the entanglement risk level is determined based on the water flow state classification result, including: if the water flow is in a steady state, the entanglement risk level is determined to be no risk; if the water flow is in a weak state, the entanglement risk level is determined to be slightly risky; if the water flow is in a stagnant state, the entanglement risk level is determined to be heavily risky.
[0048] In this embodiment, when the water flow is determined to be in a stable state, it indicates that the water flow in the washing drum is normal and following the expected washing rhythm, and the light intensity signal exhibits regular fluctuations that match the motor speed and the tumbling of the clothes. At this time, the clothes are freely stretched in the water without gathering or knotting, so the tangling risk level is determined to be no risk, and the washing equipment maintains the current washing program and operates normally.
[0049] When the water flow is determined to be in a weak state, it means that the vitality of the water flow in the washing drum has decreased, the fluctuation amplitude of the light intensity signal has decreased or the frequency has become lower. This indicates that although the clothes have not yet completely tangled into knots, they have begun to locally gather or stick to the wall, resulting in a reduction in the disturbance to the water flow. At this time, it is determined to be a mild risk.
[0050] When the water flow is determined to be stagnant, it means that the water flow in the washing drum is no longer effectively circulating with the rotation of the motor. The light intensity signal becomes flat or shows regular, abnormal tumbling periodic fluctuations, indicating that the clothes may have been tightly tangled into a large clump and no longer generate effective tumbling and water exchange as the inner drum rotates as a whole. At this time, it is judged as a severe risk.
[0051] By subdividing water flow conditions into three risk levels, the washing equipment can adopt the most appropriate response strategy according to the severity of the risk, improving the timeliness of intervention, preventing over-intervention, and ensuring effective response to high-risk situations.
[0052] S104: Based on the level of entanglement risk, control the washing equipment to perform the corresponding untangling operation.
[0053] In this embodiment, based on the different risk levels determined in step S103, the controller executes corresponding control strategies, sending control commands to actuators such as the motor and water inlet valve to untangle the clothing. Through risk-level-based intervention, the tangling problem can be resolved with minimal cost and in the shortest time.
[0054] Intervening at the initial stage of tangling prevents the tangling from worsening, reducing the likelihood of clothes getting tangled at the source. It avoids physical damage caused by forcibly pulling after clothes have formed a knot, protecting the clothing fibers, extending the lifespan of the garments, and effectively preventing drum shaking and excessive motor load caused by severely eccentric tangling. This protects the washing machine's mechanical structure and motor components, extends the machine's lifespan, reduces the hassle of manually untangling clothes after washing, and significantly improves the user experience.
[0055] In one optional implementation, based on the entanglement risk level, the washing equipment is controlled to perform a corresponding untangling operation, including: when the entanglement risk level is low, the washing equipment is controlled to perform a first untangling step; when the entanglement risk level is high, the washing equipment is controlled to perform a second untangling step; wherein the frequency and intensity of the second untangling step are higher than those of the first untangling step.
[0056] When the system determines the tangling risk level to be mild, the controller initiates the first untangling step. At this time, the clothes in the washing drum may have only just begun to clump together and have not yet formed a tight knot, so there is no need for overly aggressive untangling action. The first untangling step mainly focuses on gentle adjustments and disturbances, such as fine-tuning the motor speed or slightly changing the start-stop ratio, using the changes in the water flow itself to try to loosen the clothes.
[0057] When the system determines the entanglement risk level to be severe, the controller initiates the second untangling step. At this point, the clothing has already clumped together, even causing severe load imbalance. The second untangling step focuses on forced physical dispersal and redistribution. This can be achieved by controlling the motor to perform large-scale, high-speed forward and reverse rotation, or by coordinating with water ingress for a powerful rinse.
[0058] Furthermore, to accommodate differences in risk levels, the operating frequency of the second untangling step, such as the speed and intensity of forward and reverse switching, such as motor acceleration and rotation speed, are higher than those of the first untangling step. This allows for the elimination of tangling risks while maximizing the protection of clothing fibers and maintaining the stability of the washing process.
[0059] In an optional implementation, controlling the washing equipment to perform a first untangling step includes: controlling the washing equipment to perform a primary intervention operation; the primary intervention operation includes shortening the forward / reverse switching cycle of the washing equipment and / or increasing the motor speed to enhance the water flow impact force; reassessing the tangling risk level; if the reassessed tangling risk level is no risk, controlling the washing equipment to resume the normal washing program; if the reassessed tangling risk level is a risk level, controlling the washing equipment to perform a secondary intervention operation; the secondary intervention operation includes controlling the washing drum to reduce its speed and perform intermittent forward / reverse rotation; and / or adding water to the washing drum and shaking the clothes.
[0060] In this embodiment, when a mild risk is detected, the controller first performs a primary intervention, adjusting the regular washing parameters to disrupt the newly formed clumping of the clothes. For example, the forward / reverse rotation cycle can be shortened; for instance, the original 30 seconds forward rotation - 5 seconds pause - 30 seconds reverse rotation can be adjusted to 10 seconds forward rotation - 3 seconds pause - 10 seconds reverse rotation. By frequently changing the motor's direction, the reverse impact force of the water flow is used to shake and disperse the clothes, preventing them from tangling due to prolonged unidirectional rotation. Alternatively, the inner drum speed can be appropriately increased to enhance the turbulence and impact force of the water flow, using a powerful water flow to rinse the clothes and allow them to re-spread out in the water.
[0061] After performing the first-level intervention, the light intensity signal is reacquired, and the current tangling risk level is re-analyzed to confirm the effectiveness of the first-level intervention. If the re-assessment result is no risk, it means that the first-level intervention has successfully untangled the clothes, and the controller immediately exits the untangling mode and resumes normal washing program operation.
[0062] If the reassessment still indicates a risk level, including mild and severe risk, the controller will execute a secondary intervention, including: reducing the speed and intermittently reversing the rotation. This lowers the drum speed to a lower level, combined with intermittent forward and reverse rotation. The low-speed operation utilizes the weight of the clothes to allow them to fall and disperse naturally during the tumbling process, while the intermittent pauses give the clothes ample time to untangle and prevent re-tangling. Alternatively, water can be added to the drum to reduce pressure between the clothes using buoyancy. Combined with the drum's rotation, this allows tangled clothes to loosen and untangle under the combined action of buoyancy and mechanical force, ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of the washing equipment's untangling operation.
[0063] In an optional implementation, before acquiring the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum in response to a preset command, the control method further includes: acquiring the real-time current of the motor of the washing equipment during operation; and controlling the washing equipment to generate a preset command when the real-time current exceeds a preset current threshold range.
[0064] In this embodiment, before light intensity detection, the necessary entanglement detection is initially determined by the motor's operating status. During normal operation of the washing equipment, the controller continuously monitors the real-time current value of the motor driving the washing drum through a current sensor. The controller compares the acquired real-time current with a preset current threshold range. The preset current threshold range is set based on the current fluctuation characteristics under stable load during normal washing. If the real-time current is within the preset range, it indicates that the load is relatively stable and no obvious abnormality has occurred. In this case, the system continues to operate normally without triggering light intensity detection. If the real-time current exceeds the preset current threshold range, for example, if the current suddenly increases or decreases significantly or exhibits violent irregular fluctuations, it indicates that the motor load has changed abnormally, possibly due to clothes starting to entangle, resulting in uneven load distribution or weight concentration on one side.
[0065] Upon detecting a real-time current anomaly, the controller determines there is a potential risk of tangling. It then generates and issues a preset command to activate subsequent light intensity detection steps, enabling the system to acquire and analyze light intensity signals in detail to confirm the risk of clothing tangling. This allows the washing machine to monitor real-time changes in motor parameters and light intensity curves during the washing process, combining this information with algorithms to promptly determine if clothing is at risk of tangling, controlling the process early to prevent tangling and reducing wear and tear or even damage.
[0066] In an optional implementation, before acquiring the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum in response to a preset command, the control method further includes: controlling the washing drum to perform pre-treatment rotation and acquiring motor load change parameters during the pre-treatment rotation process by introducing water into the washing drum; calculating the load weight and water absorption characteristics of the clothes inside the washing drum based on the motor load change parameters; and configuring the reference parameters required for light intensity signal analysis based on the load weight and water absorption characteristics.
[0067] In this embodiment, the control method adds a preprocessing and calibration stage, which obtains the physical properties of clothing through standardized actions, and then dynamically adjusts the judgment criteria of light intensity analysis according to different load conditions.
[0068] Specifically, the controller controls the washing drum to rotate according to a specific preset mode, while simultaneously controlling the water inlet valve to inject a certain amount of water into the drum. During the pre-processing rotation, the controller monitors the motor's operating status in real time, acquiring motor load change parameters, and detects the difference between the actual water injection volume and the water level in the drum using a water level sensor. These parameters reflect the dynamic changes in the weight of the clothes during water absorption and the resistance characteristics they exert on the motor. Based on the collected motor load change parameters and a preset algorithm model, the controller calculates the load weight and water absorption characteristics of the clothes for this wash. For heavy loads, the clothes are piled thickly, making it difficult for light to penetrate and resulting in low light intensity signal values. For highly absorbent clothes, there may be more water foam, leading to strong light scattering. Therefore, the corresponding reference parameters are adjusted during the light intensity signal analysis process to improve the accuracy and adaptability of the detection.
[0069] The control method for a washing machine provided in this application includes, in response to a preset command, acquiring the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum; analyzing and processing the light intensity signal to extract feature information of the light intensity signal changing over time; determining the entanglement risk level of the clothes inside the washing drum based on the feature information; and controlling the washing machine to perform a corresponding untangling operation based on the entanglement risk level. By acquiring the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum and analyzing the feature information of the light intensity signal changing over time, the operating state of the clothes and water flow can be inferred. Since the light intensity signal is extremely sensitive to minute changes in the water flow state, when clothes show a tendency to become entangled, the water flow will be disturbed, which will then be reflected in the fluctuation characteristics of the light intensity signal. This method can detect the risk before the clothes are fully entangled, thereby intervening in advance, reducing the possibility of clothes entanglement from the source, effectively reducing physical wear and tear on the clothes, and extending the service life of the clothes and the washing machine.
[0070] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a control device for a washing machine, as shown in the reference. Figure 3 As shown, the control device includes: The acquisition module 301 is used to acquire the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum in response to a preset command; The extraction module 302 analyzes and processes the light intensity signal to extract the feature information of the light intensity signal changing over time. The judgment module 303 is used to determine the risk level of tangling of clothes in the washing drum based on feature information; The control module 304 is used to control the washing equipment to perform the corresponding untangling operation based on the tangling risk level.
[0071] Furthermore, the control module can also be used to perform other steps of the control method of the washing equipment described in the above embodiments.
[0072] The control device of the washing equipment in this embodiment can be applied to the washing equipment to execute the control method of the washing equipment in the above embodiment, and has the beneficial effects of the above embodiment. The specific implementation method can be referred to the above embodiment, and will not be described in detail in this application.
[0073] Thirdly, this application also provides a washing device, including: a washing drum equipped with a photoelectric sensor configured to acquire light intensity signals of water flow inside the washing drum; a motor configured to drive the washing drum to rotate; and a controller electrically connected to the photoelectric sensor and the motor, configured to execute the control method of the washing device described above.
[0074] For example, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the motor current sampling module is used to collect the motor current data in real time, and the photoelectric sensor module is used to collect the light intensity signal in real time. By using the current data and light intensity signal, the risk of clothing tangling is judged and the corresponding untangling operation is performed to reduce the risk of clothing tangling. The specific implementation method can be referred to the above embodiment, and this embodiment will not be described in detail.
[0075] Fourthly, embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the control method for the washing equipment as described in the above embodiments.
[0076] Figure 6 An example is a schematic diagram of the physical structure of an electronic device, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the electronic device may include a processor 601, a communication interface 602, a memory 603, and a communication bus 604. The processor 601, communication interface 602, and memory 603 communicate with each other via the communication bus 604. The processor 601 can call logical instructions stored in the memory 603 to execute the steps of the control method for the washing device.
[0077] Furthermore, the logical instructions in the aforementioned memory 603 can be implemented as software functional units and, when sold or used as independent products, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as a USB flash drive, a portable hard drive, a read-only memory 603 (ROM), a random access memory 603 (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk.
[0078] On the other hand, this application also provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program stored on a computer-readable storage medium. The computer program includes program instructions, and when the program instructions are executed by a computer, the computer is able to execute the control method of the washing equipment provided in the above-described method embodiments.
[0079] In another aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by processor 601, is implemented to perform the control method of the washing equipment provided in the above embodiments.
[0080] Computer-readable storage media can be any available medium or data storage device that can be accessed by a processor, including but not limited to magnetic storage (such as floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, magneto-optical disks (MOs), etc.), optical storage (such as CDs, DVDs, BDs, HVDs, etc.), and semiconductor storage (such as ROMs, EPROMs, EEPROMs, non-volatile memory (NAND flash), solid-state drives (SSDs)).
[0081] The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and the components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs. Those skilled in the art can understand and implement this without any creative effort.
[0082] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that each embodiment can be implemented by means of software plus necessary general-purpose hardware platforms, and of course, it can also be implemented by hardware. Based on this understanding, the above technical solutions, in essence or the part that contributes to the prior art, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, such as ROM / RAM, magnetic disk, optical disk, etc., including several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods of various embodiments or some parts of embodiments.
[0083] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.
[0084] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.
Claims
1. A control method for a washing machine, characterized in that, The control method includes: In response to a preset command, the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum is acquired; The light intensity signal is analyzed and processed to extract the feature information of the light intensity signal changing over time; Based on the aforementioned feature information, the risk level of entanglement of the clothes inside the washing drum is determined; Based on the level of entanglement risk, the washing equipment is controlled to perform the corresponding untangling operation.
2. The control method for the washing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of analyzing and processing the light intensity signal to extract the feature information of the light intensity signal changing over time includes: Calculate the statistical characteristics of the light intensity signal within a preset time window, wherein the statistical characteristics include at least one of variance, peak-to-peak value, and zero-crossing rate; And / or, perform frequency domain transformation on the light intensity signal to extract the frequency domain features of the light intensity signal, the frequency domain features being used to characterize the fluctuation period of the light intensity.
3. The control method for the washing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining the entanglement risk level of the clothes in the washing tub based on the feature information includes: The feature information is input into a preset classification model to obtain the water flow state classification result; wherein, the preset classification model is obtained by training the sample light intensity data based on a machine learning algorithm, and the sample light intensity data is labeled with different water flow states; Based on the water flow state classification results, the entanglement risk level is determined.
4. The control method for the washing equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, The determination of the entanglement risk level based on the water flow state classification result includes: If the water flow is in a stable state, the entanglement risk level is determined to be no risk. If the water flow is in a weak flow state, the entanglement risk level is determined to be a slight risk. If the water flow is stagnant, the entanglement risk level is determined to be severe.
5. The control method for the washing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of controlling the washing equipment to perform a corresponding untangling operation based on the entanglement risk level includes: If the entanglement risk level is low, the washing equipment is controlled to perform a first untangling step; When the entanglement risk level is severe, the washing equipment is controlled to perform a second untangling step; wherein the frequency and intensity of the second untangling step are higher than those of the first untangling step.
6. The control method for the washing equipment according to claim 5, characterized in that, The step of controlling the washing device to perform the first untangling step includes: The washing equipment is controlled to perform a first-level intervention operation; the first-level intervention operation includes shortening the forward / reverse switching cycle of the washing equipment; and / or increasing the motor speed to enhance the water flow impact force; Reassess the entanglement risk level; If the risk level of entanglement is reassessed as no risk, the washing equipment is controlled to resume the normal washing program. If the reassessed risk level of entanglement is determined to be either mild or severe, the washing equipment is controlled to perform a secondary intervention operation. The secondary intervention operation includes controlling the washing drum to reduce its rotation speed and intermittently reversing forward and reverse; and / or injecting water into the washing drum and shaking the clothes to disperse them.
7. The control method for the washing equipment according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, Before acquiring the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum in response to a preset command, the control method further includes: Obtain the real-time current of the motor of the washing equipment during operation; If the real-time current exceeds a preset current threshold range, the washing device is controlled to generate the preset command.
8. A control device for a washing machine, characterized in that, The control device includes: The acquisition module is used to acquire the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum in response to a preset command; The extraction module analyzes and processes the light intensity signal to extract the feature information of the light intensity signal changing over time. The judgment module is used to determine the entanglement risk level of the clothes in the washing drum based on the feature information; The control module is used to control the washing equipment to perform the corresponding untangling operation based on the entanglement risk level.
9. A washing device, characterized in that, include: The washing drum is equipped with a photoelectric sensor, which is configured to acquire the light intensity signal of the water flow inside the washing drum. A motor is configured to drive the washing drum to rotate; A controller, electrically connected to the photoelectric sensor and the motor, is configured to perform the control method of the washing equipment according to any one of claims 1-7.
10. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When executed by a processor, the computer program implements the steps of the control method for the washing apparatus as described in any one of claims 1-7.