Laundry treating apparatus

Abstract

This application provides a clothing processing device, including: a housing; a door cover; an outer cylinder; an inner cylinder with a clothing processing cavity formed inside; lifting ribs; a camera for acquiring images of the clothing processing cavity, the camera's shooting range including the lifting ribs; a motor for driving the inner cylinder to rotate; a downlight; and a control unit configured to: after the clothing processing program finishes running, if the door cover is detected to have opened and then closed, control the downlight to turn on and control the camera to capture a first image; determine whether clothing exists in the clothing processing cavity based on the first image; if the determination is negative, control the motor to drive the inner cylinder to rotate in a first direction, and control the camera to capture a second image after the inner cylinder stops rotating; and determine whether clothing exists in the clothing processing cavity based on the second image. This application can accurately detect leftover clothing to prevent clothing from remaining in the clothing processing cavity, which could lead to clothing mold and spoilage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of clothing processing technology, and more specifically to a clothing processing device. Background Technology

[0002] Clothing dryers, washing machines, and other garment processing devices are household appliances used to process clothes. As consumers' living standards improve, their demands for garment processing devices are also increasing.

[0003] Clothing dispensers have become an essential household appliance, allowing users to enjoy the convenience of garment processing anytime. However, it's common for clothes not to be completely removed after processing, especially small items like socks or underwear, which are easily left inside. If clothes remain in the dispenser for too long, there's a risk of bacterial infection, mold, and spoilage, ultimately affecting the user experience.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a clothing processing device that can accurately detect leftover clothing. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a clothing processing device that can accurately detect leftover clothing, thereby preventing leftover clothing from becoming moldy or deteriorating.

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a garment processing apparatus is provided, comprising:

[0008] The housing forms the outer shell of the garment handling device;

[0009] A door cover is located on the front side wall of the box and is used to open and close the clothing inlet on the box.

[0010] The outer cylinder is located inside the box.

[0011] The inner tube is rotatably disposed inside the outer tube, and a clothing processing cavity is formed inside the inner tube;

[0012] Lifting ribs are distributed along the circumference of the garment processing cavity;

[0013] A camera is used to acquire images of the garment processing cavity, and the camera's shooting range includes the lifting ribs;

[0014] An electric motor is used to drive the inner cylinder to rotate;

[0015] Downlight, the downlight being used to illuminate the garment processing chamber;

[0016] and a control unit, wherein the control unit is configured to:

[0017] After the clothing processing program finishes running, if it is detected that the door has been opened and then closed, the downlight is turned on and the camera is controlled to capture a first image.

[0018] Based on the first image, determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity;

[0019] If the determination is negative, then control the motor to drive the inner cylinder to rotate in the first direction, and control the camera to capture a second image after the inner cylinder stops rotating;

[0020] Based on the second image, determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

[0021] The above-mentioned technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: After the garment processing program ends, the state of the door is detected. If the door is detected to have been opened and then closed, it means that the motor can be controlled to drive the inner drum to rotate. This allows the downlight to be turned on to illuminate the garment processing chamber, which helps the camera capture clear images. Since the camera's shooting range includes the lifting ribs, small garments that are blocked by the lifting ribs can be exposed within the camera's field of view. Thus, the presence of garments in the garment processing chamber can be accurately determined based on the first image captured by the camera, effectively preventing misjudgments caused by small garments being blocked by the lifting ribs.

[0022] In addition, if it is determined from the first image that there are no clothes in the clothing processing cavity, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner drum to rotate in the first direction so that the small pieces of clothing that are blocked by the lifting ribs can be more fully exposed to the field of view of the camera. In this way, the second image obtained by the camera can more accurately determine whether there are clothes in the clothing processing cavity, and more effectively prevent misjudgment caused by the small pieces of clothing being blocked by the lifting ribs.

[0023] In some embodiments of this application, determining whether clothing exists in the clothing processing cavity includes:

[0024] Obtain a background image showing that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity;

[0025] Calculate the pixel difference between the image captured by the camera and the background image;

[0026] If the pixel difference value reaches or exceeds the set threshold, it is determined that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity;

[0027] If all pixel difference values ​​are below the set threshold, it is determined that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

[0028] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: First, a background image of the clothing processing cavity where there is no clothing is obtained. Then, the pixel difference value between the image captured by the camera and the background image is calculated. If the pixel difference value is detected to be above a set threshold, it can be accurately determined that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity. If the pixel difference value is detected to be below the set threshold, it can be accurately determined that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

[0029] In some embodiments of this application, the garment handling device further includes a positioning lock, and the control unit is further configured to:

[0030] When the motor is controlled to rotate the inner cylinder to a set position, the positioning lock is controlled to pop out to fix the inner cylinder to the set position;

[0031] After the inner cylinder is fixed to the set position, the camera is controlled to capture images.

[0032] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: a positioning lock is set in the garment processing device, and the motor is controlled to rotate the inner drum to a set position. When the inner drum rotates to the set position, the positioning lock can be controlled to pop out to fix the inner drum to the set position. Then, the camera is controlled to take pictures to obtain images, so that the position of the lifting ribs in the captured images is always consistent, thereby reducing the pixel difference value between the lifting ribs in the images and improving the accuracy of determining whether there are clothes in the garment processing cavity.

[0033] In some embodiments of this application, the control unit is further configured to:

[0034] If it is determined from the second image that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity, then the motor is controlled to drive the inner drum to rotate in the second direction, and after the inner drum stops rotating, the camera is controlled to take a picture to obtain a third image, wherein the second direction is the opposite direction of the first direction;

[0035] Based on the third image, determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

[0036] The above-mentioned technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: If it is determined from the second image that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner drum to rotate in the second direction, which is the opposite direction of the first direction, so that the small pieces of clothing blocked by the lifting rib can be fully exposed to the field of view of the camera through the rotation in the other direction. In this way, the presence of clothing in the clothing processing cavity can be more accurately determined from the third image obtained by the camera, and the misjudgment caused by the small pieces of clothing being blocked by the lifting rib can be more effectively prevented.

[0037] In some embodiments of this application, the control unit is further configured to:

[0038] If it is determined from the third image that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity, then after a set time, the process jumps to the steps of controlling the downlight to turn on and controlling the camera to capture a first image.

[0039] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: if it is determined from the third image that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber, then after a set time, the steps of controlling the downlight to turn on and controlling the camera to capture the first image can be executed. By increasing the number of detections and judgments, it is possible to more accurately determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0040] In some embodiments of this application, the control unit is further configured to:

[0041] If the number of times the judgment to determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber is performed reaches a set limit, and all judgments indicate that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber, then it is determined that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0042] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: if the number of times the judgment of whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber reaches the set limit and all judgments are that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber, then it can be determined that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber, thereby avoiding excessive judgment and wasting the processing resources of the control unit.

[0043] In some embodiments of this application, the control unit is further configured to:

[0044] If it is detected that the door cover is not closed after being opened, the downlight is turned on and the camera is controlled to capture a fourth image.

[0045] Based on the fourth image, it is determined whether there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

[0046] In some embodiments of this application, the clothing handling device includes a voice module and a display screen; the control unit is further configured to:

[0047] If it is determined that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity, the voice module is controlled to issue a voice prompt, and the image corresponding to the determination that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity is displayed on the display screen.

[0048] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: The clothing handling device also includes a voice module and a display screen. If it is determined that there are clothes in the clothing handling cavity, the voice module can be controlled to issue a voice prompt, and the image corresponding to the determination that there are clothes in the clothing handling cavity can be displayed on the display screen, thereby effectively prompting the user to take out the clothes in time and avoid forgetting clothes that will become moldy or deteriorate.

[0049] In some embodiments of this application, the garment handling device further includes a wireless communication module, through which the garment handling device establishes a wireless connection with a mobile terminal; the control unit is further configured to:

[0050] If it is determined that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity, the control sends the image corresponding to the determination that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity to the mobile terminal to prompt the user to pick up the clothing.

[0051] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the clothing processing device also includes a wireless communication module, which establishes a wireless connection with the mobile terminal; if it is determined that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity, the device can control the sending of the image corresponding to the determination that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity to the mobile terminal to prompt the user to pick up the clothes in time and avoid forgetting clothes that will become moldy or deteriorate.

[0052] In some embodiments of this application, the camera is located on the upper inner side of the door cover.

[0053] The above-mentioned technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: by placing the camera on the upper inner side of the door cover, a wider range of images can be captured of the clothing processing cavity, which is more conducive to the detection and judgment of the captured images and improves the accuracy of judging whether there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

[0054] The effects of the above-mentioned technical solutions are not limited to those mentioned above. Those skilled in the art can clearly understand other effects not mentioned from the description in the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0055] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application. It is obvious that the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this application, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort. In the drawings:

[0056] Figure 1 This is an external structural diagram of a clothing processing device according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the lifting ribs according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the placement of the lifting ribs in some embodiments of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the steps that the control unit can execute according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of determining whether clothing is present in the clothing processing chamber according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the steps that the control unit can execute according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of some other embodiments of the present invention for determining whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0063] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of some other embodiments of the present invention for determining whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0064] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of the steps that the control unit can execute according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of the steps that the control unit can execute according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0066] The following are the annotations in the attached diagram: 1. Box body; 2. Door cover; 3. Control panel; 4. Lifting rib; 5. Inner cylinder. Detailed Implementation

[0067] Typical embodiments embodying the features and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail in the following description. It should be understood that the present invention can have various variations in different embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention, and the descriptions and illustrations herein are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to limit the present invention.

[0068] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing 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 this application.

[0069] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the stated features. In the description of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0070] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" 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; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0071] Clothing dryers, washing machines, and other garment processing devices are household appliances used to process clothes. As consumers' living standards improve, their demands for garment processing devices are also increasing.

[0072] Clothing dispensers have become an essential household appliance, allowing users to enjoy the convenience of garment processing anytime. However, it's common for clothes not to be completely removed after processing, especially small items like socks or underwear, which are easily left inside. If clothes remain in the dispenser for too long, there's a risk of bacterial infection, mold, and spoilage, ultimately affecting the user experience.

[0073] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a clothing processing device that can accurately detect leftover clothing.

[0074] Therefore, the present invention proposes a garment processing device.

[0075] Figure 1 This is an external structural diagram of a clothing processing device according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0076] like Figure 1 As shown, the garment processing device provided in this embodiment of the invention may include a housing 1. The housing 1 may be constructed as the outer shell of the garment processing device. The housing 1 typically has a hollow cuboid structure. It should be noted that in other embodiments, the external shape of the housing 1 can be designed as needed, and is not limited here. The interior of the housing 1 can be used to provide installation space.

[0077] In some embodiments of this application, a clothing inlet (not shown in the figure) may be provided on the front side wall of the housing 1. This clothing inlet can connect to the internal space of the housing 1. Clothes can be placed into the housing 1 through the clothing inlet for processing. Clothes processing may include washing, spinning, and drying.

[0078] Please see Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, a door cover 2 may be provided on the front side wall of the box 1. The door cover 2 can be used to open and close the clothing inlet on the front side wall of the box 1, thereby opening and closing the space inside the box 1 through the door cover 2.

[0079] In some embodiments of this application, the door cover 2 and the box body 1 can be connected by a hinge, and the door cover 2 can rotate around the axis of the hinge, thereby realizing the opening and closing of the door cover 2 and opening and closing the clothing inlet.

[0080] In some embodiments of this application, the garment processing device may include a control panel 3. The control panel 3 may be disposed on the housing 1. The control panel 3 may be disposed on the top or front of the garment processing device to facilitate user control of the garment processing device via the control panel 3.

[0081] Control panel 3 can consist of button components. Control panel 3 can consist of touch screen components. Control panel 3 can consist of a combination of button components and touch screen components.

[0082] Different processing programs can be selected via control panel 3. The clothing processing program can be a washing program, a rinsing program, a spin-drying program, or a drying program. In this embodiment, the clothing processing program can also be other programs.

[0083] In some embodiments of this application, the drying temperature can be adjusted via the control panel 3. For heavy clothing, a high-temperature drying setting can be selected to reduce the drying time. For fragile or delicate fabrics, such as silk or wool, a low-temperature drying setting can be selected to protect the clothing from damage.

[0084] In some embodiments of this application, the control panel 3 may be equipped with additional functions. These additional functions may include steam treatment, sterilization and mite removal, and wrinkle reduction. By selecting different additional functions, the drying effect can be further improved or specific user needs can be met.

[0085] In some embodiments of this application, the control panel 3 may be equipped with a display screen. The display screen may show the current operating status of the garment processing device. The current operating status of the garment processing device may be preheating, drying, or cooling.

[0086] In some embodiments of this application, if the clothing handling device malfunctions or malfunctions, the display screen can show corresponding error codes or prompts to help the user quickly locate the problem.

[0087] In some embodiments of this application, the control panel 3 may be equipped with a start switch to start a corresponding program. The control panel 3 may be equipped with a pause switch to pause the current operation. The control panel 3 may be equipped with a cancel switch to cancel the current operation.

[0088] In some embodiments of this application, the garment processing device may include a tubular assembly. The tubular assembly may be disposed within a housing 1. The tubular assembly may extend along the front-rear direction of the housing 1. A garment processing chamber may be formed within the tubular assembly. A tubular opening may be formed on the front end face of the tubular assembly. This tubular opening communicates with the interior of the garment processing chamber. This tubular opening is directly opposite the garment inlet and the door 2 of the housing 1. When the door 2 is opened, garments can be sequentially placed into the garment processing chamber within the tubular assembly through the garment inlet at the front of the housing 1 and the tubular opening at the front end of the tubular assembly for garment processing. When the housing 1 is closed, the housing 1 can simultaneously close the garment inlet and the garment processing chamber.

[0089] In some embodiments of this application, the cylinder assembly may include an outer cylinder. The outer cylinder may be disposed inside the housing 1.

[0090] In some embodiments of this application, the outer cylinder may be made of plastic and may be formed by injection molding. Injection molding of the outer cylinder can reduce costs.

[0091] It should be noted that in some other embodiments, the outer cylinder may also be made of metal.

[0092] In some embodiments of this application, the tubular assembly may include an inner tubular assembly 5. The inner tubular assembly 5 may be disposed inside the outer tubular assembly. A garment processing cavity may be formed inside the inner tubular assembly 5. The garment processing cavity within the inner tubular assembly 5 may be used to hold garments to be processed.

[0093] In some embodiments of this application, the inner tube 5 may be rotatably disposed inside the outer tube. When the inner tube 5 rotates relative to the outer tube, the inner tube 5 can drive the clothes to rotate relative to the outer tube.

[0094] In some embodiments of this application, the outer cylinder and the inner cylinder 5 may also be arranged coaxially. The front end of the outer cylinder and the front end of the inner cylinder 5 may have openings arranged opposite to each other. The front end opening of the outer cylinder and the front end opening of the inner cylinder 5 may be combined to form the cylinder opening of the cylinder assembly.

[0095] In some embodiments of this application, the garment handling device may include a rear drum seal. The rear drum seal is located at the rear end of the inner drum 5, connecting the inner drum 5 to the rear end cap or related fixing portion. The rear drum seal can be used to ensure the airtightness of this area.

[0096] In some embodiments of this application, the garment handling device may include a front seal. The front seal is located at the front end of the inner tub 5, connecting the inner tub 5 to the front cover or related fixing part. The front seal can be used to ensure the airtightness of this area.

[0097] In some embodiments of this application, the rear seal of the cylinder can be a door seal ring. The front seal of the cylinder can be a door seal ring. The door seal ring can be an annular structure.

[0098] In some embodiments of this application, the door seal ring may be made of a resilient sealing material.

[0099] In some embodiments of this application, the garment handling apparatus may include a rotation system. The rotation system may include a belt. The transmission system may include a motor. The motor may have a motor shaft, through which power is transmitted.

[0100] The belt can be connected to the inner drum 5 and the motor shaft respectively, so that the belt can be driven by the motor to rotate, thereby causing the inner drum 5 to rotate and the clothes to tumble up and down in the inner drum 5.

[0101] In some embodiments of this application, a belt may be connected to the rear end of the inner cylinder 5. A corresponding transmission mechanism connected to the belt is provided at the rear end of the inner cylinder 5.

[0102] In some embodiments of this application, the motor can adjust the rotational speed of the inner cylinder 5 via a control circuit. The motor can also adjust the rotation angle of the inner cylinder 5 via a control circuit. Furthermore, the motor can adjust the rotation direction of the inner cylinder 5 via a control circuit. Finally, the motor can adjust the rotation time of the inner cylinder 5 via a control circuit.

[0103] The motor adjusts the operating state of the inner drum 5 through a control circuit, adapting to different processing procedures and user needs. For example, for thick clothing, the motor can be controlled to use a lower speed to prevent excessive wear and tear. For thin clothing, the motor can be controlled to use a higher speed.

[0104] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the lifting ribs according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0105] like Figure 2 As shown, the garment handling device provided in this embodiment of the invention may include a lifting rib 4. The lifting rib 4 includes two opposing side surfaces. The lifting rib 4 includes a mounting surface and a top surface located between the upper and lower sides of the two side surfaces. The mounting surface can be used to connect with the inner wall of the inner tube 5.

[0106] Therefore, the two opposite sides of the support frame can easily cover some small items of clothing. Small items of clothing can include underwear. Small items of clothing can include socks.

[0107] In some embodiments of this application, the clothing handling device rotates the inner cylinder 5 to cause the clothing to flip, so that the clothing can be lifted from a low place to a high place, and then the clothing falls from the high place by gravity, simulating the process of beating the clothing with a stick, and the clothing is processed. The lifting rib 4 is an important component when the inner cylinder 5 lifts the clothing.

[0108] In some embodiments of this application, the side of the lifting rib 4 can be designed as a concave arc surface.

[0109] Because the concave arc surface is recessed inward, when the inner cylinder 5 rotates, it causes the lifting rib 4 to rotate circumferentially. The concave arc surface forms a miniature hook, allowing some of the clothing to be embedded in the arc of the concave arc surface. This allows the clothing to move better with the lifting rib 4, and thus the clothing can be effectively lifted to a higher position.

[0110] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the placement of the lifting ribs in some embodiments of the present invention.

[0111] like Figure 3 As shown, the lifting ribs 4 can be distributed along the circumference of the garment processing cavity.

[0112] In some embodiments of this application, the garment handling device may be provided with two lifting ribs 4.

[0113] In some embodiments of this application, the garment handling device may be provided with three or more lifting ribs 4.

[0114] In some embodiments of this application, the clothing handling device may include a camera.

[0115] In some embodiments of this application, the camera may be located on the inside of the door cover 2.

[0116] In some embodiments of this application, the camera can be positioned on the upper inner side of the door cover 2. Therefore, positioning the camera on the upper inner side of the door cover 2 allows for a wider field of view of the clothing processing cavity, which is more conducive to detecting and judging the captured images and improving the accuracy of determining whether clothing is present in the clothing processing cavity.

[0117] In some embodiments of this application, the camera may be an infrared camera. Infrared cameras can still capture clear images in low-light or completely dark environments.

[0118] In some embodiments of this application, the camera may be a wide-angle camera. A wide-angle camera can capture a panoramic image of the inside of the garment processing chamber, reducing blind spots.

[0119] In some embodiments of this application, the camera may be a waterproof and fog-proof camera. Waterproof and fog-proof cameras will not become blurry or damaged by moisture, have high durability, and can maintain stable performance during long-term use.

[0120] In some embodiments of this application, the garment handling device may include a downlight.

[0121] In some embodiments of this application, the downlight can be embedded in the inner edge of the door cover 2. This allows the downlight to illuminate the clothing processing chamber evenly.

[0122] In some embodiments of this application, the downlight may have a brightness adjustment function. The brightness of the downlight can be automatically adjusted according to the ambient light conditions. The brightness of the downlight can be controlled via a mobile terminal connected to the clothing processing device. The brightness of the downlight can be controlled via a control panel 3 installed on the clothing processing device.

[0123] For example, in daylight or well-lit environments, the downlights can automatically dim to reduce glare. In nighttime or dimly lit environments, the downlights can automatically brighten to ensure adequate lighting in the garment processing chamber.

[0124] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the steps that the control unit can execute according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0125] like Figure 4 As shown, the control unit can be configured to execute the following S110-S160:

[0126] S110, after the clothing processing program has finished running, if it detects that the door cover has been opened and then closed, it controls the downlight to turn on and controls the camera to take a picture to obtain the first image.

[0127] S120, Based on the first image, determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0128] S130, if the determination is negative, control the motor to drive the inner cylinder to rotate in the first direction, and control the camera to capture a second image after the inner cylinder stops rotating.

[0129] S140, Based on the second image, determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0130] S150, if the determination is negative, then it is determined that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0131] S160, if the determination is yes, then it is determined that there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0132] The following sections will elaborate on S110-S160 respectively.

[0133] In S110, in some embodiments of this application, the garment processing procedure can be a washing procedure. The garment processing procedure can be a rinsing procedure. The garment processing procedure can be a spin-drying procedure. The garment processing procedure can be a drying procedure. In this embodiment, the garment processing procedure can also be other procedures.

[0134] In some embodiments of this application, it is possible to detect whether the door is open after the clothing processing procedure has finished running.

[0135] In some embodiments of this application, after the clothing processing procedure has finished running, if the door is detected to be open, it can be further detected whether the door is closed within a first preset time period. If the door is detected to be closed within the first preset time period after it is opened, it indicates that the door was opened and then closed.

[0136] In some embodiments of this application, the first preset duration can be 3 minutes. The first preset duration can be 5 minutes. The first preset duration can be other preset durations.

[0137] In some embodiments of this application, if the door is detected to have opened and then closed, it may mean that the user believes all the clothes in the clothing processing chamber have been removed. To avoid any clothes remaining in the clothing processing chamber, a clothing leakage detection function can be implemented.

[0138] In some embodiments of this application, the downlight can be turned on to illuminate the clothing processing chamber, thereby helping the camera to capture clear images.

[0139] In some embodiments of this application, the garment handling device may further include a positioning lock. If the inner tub is not currently in the set position, the motor can be controlled to rotate the inner tub to the set position.

[0140] When the inner drum rotates to the set position, the positioning lock can be activated to secure the inner drum in that position. When the inner drum is in the set position, the positioning lock can be activated to secure the inner drum in that position.

[0141] After the inner cylinder is fixed in the set position, the camera can be controlled to capture the first image.

[0142] In S120, in some embodiments of this application, it can be determined whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber based on the first image captured by the camera.

[0143] In some embodiments of this application, target objects can be identified and located in the first image using a target detection algorithm. Clothing can be used as the target object.

[0144] The object detection algorithm can be SSD (Single Shot MultiBox Detector). The object detection algorithm can be YOLO (You Only Look Once). Other object detection algorithms can also be used.

[0145] In some embodiments of this application, edge information in the first image can be detected using an edge detection algorithm. The edge detection algorithm is then used to determine whether clothing exists in the clothing processing cavity.

[0146] Canny edge detection can be used as an edge detection algorithm. Other edge detection algorithms can also be used.

[0147] In some embodiments of this application, the first image can be classified. By training a classifier to extract and classify features from the input first image, the probability of clothing being present in the clothing processing cavity can be obtained. Then, the presence or absence of clothing in the clothing processing cavity can be determined based on the probability of clothing being present.

[0148] In S130, if it is determined from the first image that there are no clothes in the clothes processing chamber, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner drum to rotate in the first direction.

[0149] In some embodiments of this application, the first direction may be clockwise. The first direction may also be counterclockwise.

[0150] In some embodiments of this application, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner cylinder to rotate in a first direction for a second preset duration. The second preset duration can be 10 seconds. The second preset duration can be 20 seconds. The second preset duration can be any other preset duration.

[0151] In some embodiments of this application, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner cylinder to rotate a preset number of revolutions in a first direction. The preset number of revolutions can be 1 / 4 revolution, 1 / 2 revolution, or other preset numbers.

[0152] In some embodiments of this application, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner cylinder to rotate in a first direction to a set position. If the current position of the inner cylinder is detected to be the set position, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner cylinder to rotate an integer number of revolutions in the first direction. The integer number of revolutions can be 1 revolution, 2 revolutions, or any other number of revolutions.

[0153] The garment handling device may also include a positioning lock. If the inner drum is not currently in the set position, the motor can be controlled to rotate the inner drum to the set position.

[0154] When the inner drum rotates to the set position, the positioning lock can be activated to secure the inner drum in that position. When the inner drum is in the set position, the positioning lock can be activated to secure the inner drum in that position.

[0155] After the inner cylinder is fixed in the set position, the camera can be controlled to capture a second image.

[0156] In S140, similarly, in some embodiments of this application, a target object can be identified and located in the second image using a target detection algorithm. Clothing can be considered as the target object.

[0157] The object detection algorithm can be SSD (Single Shot MultiBox Detector). The object detection algorithm can be YOLO (You Only Look Once). Other object detection algorithms can also be used.

[0158] In some embodiments of this application, edge information in the second image can be detected using an edge detection algorithm. The edge detection algorithm is then used to determine whether clothing exists in the clothing processing cavity.

[0159] Canny edge detection can be used as an edge detection algorithm. Other edge detection algorithms can also be used.

[0160] In some embodiments of this application, the second image can be classified. By using a trained classifier to extract and classify features from the input second image, the probability of clothing being present in the clothing processing cavity can be obtained. Then, the presence or absence of clothing in the clothing processing cavity can be determined based on the probability of clothing being present.

[0161] In S150 and S160, in some embodiments of this application, if it is determined from the first image that clothing exists in the clothing processing chamber, then it can be confirmed that clothing exists in the clothing processing chamber. If it is determined from the second image that clothing exists in the clothing processing chamber, then it can be confirmed that clothing exists in the clothing processing chamber.

[0162] In some embodiments of this application, if it is determined from the second image that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity, then it can be determined that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

[0163] As can be seen from S110-S160 above, after the garment processing program finishes running, the state of the door cover is detected. If the door cover is detected to have been opened and then closed, it means that the motor can be controlled to drive the inner drum to rotate. This allows the downlight to be turned on to illuminate the garment processing chamber, which helps the camera capture a clear image. Since the camera's shooting range includes the lifting ribs, small garments that are blocked by the lifting ribs can be exposed within the camera's field of view. Thus, the camera can accurately determine whether there are garments in the garment processing chamber based on the first image obtained, effectively preventing misjudgments caused by small garments being blocked by the lifting ribs.

[0164] In addition, if it is determined from the first image that there are no clothes in the clothing processing cavity, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner drum to rotate in the first direction so that the small pieces of clothing that are blocked by the lifting ribs can be more fully exposed to the field of view of the camera. In this way, the second image obtained by the camera can more accurately determine whether there are clothes in the clothing processing cavity, and more effectively prevent misjudgment caused by the small pieces of clothing being blocked by the lifting ribs.

[0165] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of determining whether clothing is present in the clothing processing chamber according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0166] See Figure 5 Determining whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber may include the following steps: S210-S220:

[0167] S210 controls the motor to drive the inner cylinder to rotate in the second direction, and controls the camera to capture a third image after the inner cylinder stops rotating. The second direction is the opposite direction of the first direction.

[0168] S220, Based on the third image, determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0169] The following sections will elaborate on S210-S220 respectively.

[0170] In S210, if it is determined from the second image that there are no clothes in the clothes processing chamber, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner drum to rotate in the second direction.

[0171] In some embodiments of this application, the second direction can be clockwise. The second direction can also be counterclockwise.

[0172] In some embodiments of this application, the second direction can be the opposite of the first direction. If the first direction is clockwise, the second direction can be counterclockwise. If the first direction is counterclockwise, the second direction can be clockwise.

[0173] Similarly, in some embodiments of this application, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner cylinder to rotate in the second direction for a third preset duration. The third preset duration can be 10 seconds. The third preset duration can be 20 seconds. The third preset duration can be any other preset duration.

[0174] In some embodiments of this application, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner cylinder to rotate a preset number of revolutions in the second direction. The preset number of revolutions can be 1 / 4 revolution, 1 / 2 revolution, or other preset numbers.

[0175] In some embodiments of this application, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner cylinder to rotate in a second direction to a set position. If the current position of the inner cylinder is detected to be the set position, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner cylinder to rotate an integer number of revolutions in the second direction. The integer number of revolutions can be 1 revolution, 2 revolutions, or any other number of revolutions.

[0176] The garment handling device may also include a positioning lock. If the inner drum is not currently in the set position, the motor can be controlled to rotate the inner drum to the set position.

[0177] When the inner drum rotates to the set position, the positioning lock can be activated to secure the inner drum in that position. When the inner drum is in the set position, the positioning lock can be activated to secure the inner drum in that position.

[0178] After the inner cylinder is fixed in the set position, the camera can be controlled to capture a third image.

[0179] In S220, similarly, in some embodiments of this application, a target object can be identified and located in the third image using a target detection algorithm. Clothing can be considered as the target object.

[0180] The object detection algorithm can be SSD (Single Shot MultiBox Detector). The object detection algorithm can be YOLO (You Only Look Once). Other object detection algorithms can also be used.

[0181] In some embodiments of this application, edge information in a third image can be detected using an edge detection algorithm. The edge detection algorithm is then used to determine whether clothing exists in the clothing processing cavity.

[0182] Canny edge detection can be used as an edge detection algorithm. Other edge detection algorithms can also be used.

[0183] In some embodiments of this application, the third image can be classified. The input third image is extracted and classified by a trained classifier to obtain the probability of clothing in the clothing processing cavity. Then, the presence of clothing in the clothing processing cavity can be determined based on the probability of clothing presence.

[0184] As can be seen from S210-S220 above, if it is determined from the second image that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity, the motor can be controlled to drive the inner drum to rotate in the second direction, which is the opposite of the first direction, so that the small pieces of clothing that are blocked by the lifting rib can be fully exposed to the field of view of the camera through the rotation in the other direction. In this way, the presence of clothing in the clothing processing cavity can be more accurately determined from the third image obtained by the camera, and the misjudgment caused by the small pieces of clothing being blocked by the lifting rib can be more effectively prevented.

[0185] Please see Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the steps that the control unit can execute according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0186] See Figure 6 The control unit can also be configured to perform the following steps:

[0187] If the third image determines that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber, then after a set time, the process jumps to the steps of controlling the downlights to turn on and controlling the camera to capture the first image.

[0188] Furthermore, the duration can be set to 5 minutes. The duration can be set to 10 minutes. The duration can also be any other specified duration.

[0189] As can be seen from the above, if it is determined from the third image that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber, then after a set time, the steps of controlling the downlight to turn on and controlling the camera to take a picture to obtain the first image can be executed. By increasing the number of detections and judgments, it is possible to more accurately determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0190] In some embodiments of this application, the control unit may also be configured to perform the following steps:

[0191] If the number of times the judgment to determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber is performed reaches the set limit, and all judgments are that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber, then it is determined that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0192] Furthermore, the limit on the number of attempts can be set to 5. The limit can be set to 10. The limit can be set to 15. The limit can be any other limit.

[0193] As can be seen from the above, if the number of times the judgment on whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber is performed reaches the set limit, and all judgments are made that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber, then it can be determined that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber, thereby avoiding excessive judgment and wasting the processing resources of the control unit.

[0194] Please see Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a flowchart of some other embodiments of the present invention for determining whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0195] See Figure 7 Determining whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber may include the following steps: S310-S320:

[0196] S310: If it is detected that the door cover has been opened but not closed, the downlights are turned on and the camera is controlled to capture a fourth image.

[0197] S320, based on the fourth image, determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0198] The following sections will elaborate on S310-S320 respectively.

[0199] In S310, in some embodiments of this application, it is possible to detect whether the door is open after the clothing processing procedure has finished running.

[0200] In some embodiments of this application, after the clothing processing program finishes running, if the door is detected to be open, it can be detected whether the door is closed within a fourth preset time period. If the door is detected not to be closed within the fourth preset time period after it is opened, it indicates that the door was not closed after being opened.

[0201] In some embodiments of this application, if the door is detected as being opened but not closed, it means that the user may have forgotten the clothing to be retrieved from the clothing processing chamber. To avoid any clothing remaining in the clothing processing chamber, a clothing loss detection function can be implemented in the clothing processing chamber.

[0202] In some embodiments of this application, the garment handling device may further include a positioning lock. If the inner tub is not currently in the set position, the motor can be controlled to rotate the inner tub to the set position.

[0203] When the inner drum rotates to the set position, the positioning lock can be activated to secure the inner drum in that position. When the inner drum is in the set position, the positioning lock can be activated to secure the inner drum in that position.

[0204] After the inner cylinder is fixed in the set position, the camera can be controlled to capture a fourth image.

[0205] Similarly, in S320, in some embodiments of this application, a target object can be identified and located in the fourth image using a target detection algorithm. Clothing can be considered as the target object.

[0206] The object detection algorithm can be SSD (Single Shot MultiBox Detector). The object detection algorithm can be YOLO (You Only Look Once). Other object detection algorithms can also be used.

[0207] In some embodiments of this application, edge information in the fourth image can be detected using an edge detection algorithm. The edge detection algorithm is then used to determine whether clothing exists in the clothing processing cavity.

[0208] Canny edge detection can be used as an edge detection algorithm. Other edge detection algorithms can also be used.

[0209] In some embodiments of this application, the fourth image can be classified. The input fourth image is extracted and classified by a trained classifier to obtain the probability that clothing exists in the clothing processing cavity. Then, the presence of clothing in the clothing processing cavity can be determined based on the probability of clothing presence.

[0210] Please see Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a flowchart of some other embodiments of the present invention for determining whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0211] See Figure 8 Determining whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber may include the following steps: S410-S440:

[0212] S410, Obtain a background image of the clothing processing chamber where no clothing exists.

[0213] S420 calculates the pixel difference between the image captured by the camera and the background image.

[0214] S430 determines whether there are pixel differences that exceed a set threshold.

[0215] S440, if a pixel difference value reaches or exceeds a set threshold, it is determined that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

[0216] S450, if all pixel difference values ​​are below the set threshold, it is determined that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

[0217] The following sections will elaborate on S410-S450 respectively.

[0218] In S410, in some embodiments of this application, a background image of the clothing processing cavity when the inner cylinder is in a set position and there are no clothes in the clothing processing cavity can be obtained.

[0219] In some embodiments of this application, the garment handling device may further include a positioning lock. If the inner tub is not currently in the set position, the motor can be controlled to rotate the inner tub to the set position.

[0220] When the inner drum rotates to the set position, the positioning lock can be activated to secure the inner drum in that position. When the inner drum is in the set position, the positioning lock can be activated to secure the inner drum in that position.

[0221] After the inner cylinder is fixed in the set position, the camera can be controlled to capture a background image.

[0222] Therefore, by fixing the inner cylinder to a set position and then controlling the camera to capture images, the background of the captured images is consistent, such as the position of the lifting ribs in the background, thereby reducing the error between the backgrounds of the images.

[0223] In S420, in some embodiments of this application, the pixel difference value between the first image and the background image can be calculated. The pixel difference value between the second image and the background image can be calculated. The pixel difference value between the third image and the background image can be calculated. The pixel difference value between the fourth image and the background image can be calculated.

[0224] In some embodiments of this application, the pixel difference values ​​between pixels in the image captured by the camera and corresponding pixels in the background image can be calculated.

[0225] In S430-S450, if a pixel difference value exceeding a set threshold is detected, it indicates a significant difference between the image captured by the camera and the background image, thus indicating the presence of clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

[0226] If the detected pixel difference values ​​are all below the set threshold, it indicates that there is no difference or the difference is too small between the image captured by the camera and the background image, and it can be determined that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

[0227] As shown in S410-S450 above, firstly, a background image of the clothing processing cavity where no clothing is present is obtained. Then, the pixel difference value between the image captured by the camera and the background image is calculated. If the detected pixel difference value reaches or exceeds a set threshold, it can be accurately determined that clothing is present in the clothing processing cavity. If the detected pixel difference value is below the set threshold, it can be accurately determined that no clothing is present in the clothing processing cavity.

[0228] Figure 9This is a flowchart of the steps that the control unit can execute according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0229] In some embodiments of this application, the clothing handling device may include a voice module and a display screen.

[0230] See Figure 9 The control unit can also be configured to execute the following S510:

[0231] S510: If it is determined that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity, the voice module will issue a voice prompt and display the corresponding image on the display screen.

[0232] In S510, in some embodiments of this application, if it is determined that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity, the voice module can be controlled to issue a voice prompt.

[0233] The voice prompt could be something like, "There are still clothes in the garment processing chamber. Please remove them promptly."

[0234] In some embodiments of this application, the display screen can be used to display an operating interface, program selection, and status information, etc. The display screen can be a high-definition touchscreen. The display screen can be an LED display screen.

[0235] In some embodiments of this application, the display screen may show an image corresponding to the determination that clothing is present in the clothing processing cavity.

[0236] As can be seen from the above, the clothing handling device also includes a voice module and a display screen. If it is determined that there are clothes in the clothing handling cavity, the voice module can be controlled to issue a voice prompt, and the image corresponding to the determination that there are clothes in the clothing handling cavity can be displayed on the display screen, thereby effectively prompting the user to take out the clothes in time and avoid forgetting clothes that will become moldy or deteriorate.

[0237] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of the steps that the control unit can execute according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0238] In some embodiments of this application, the garment handling apparatus may further include a wireless communication module. The garment handling apparatus can establish a wireless connection with a mobile terminal through the wireless communication module.

[0239] See Figure 10 The control unit can also be configured to execute the following S610:

[0240] S610, if it is determined that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity, the control sends the image corresponding to the determination that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity to the mobile terminal to prompt the user to pick up the clothing.

[0241] In S610, in some embodiments of this application, the mobile terminal may be a smartphone, tablet computer, etc.

[0242] In some embodiments of this application, a pop-up window may be used to prompt the user to pick up their clothes in a timely manner.

[0243] As can be seen from the above, the clothing processing device also includes a wireless communication module. The clothing processing device establishes a wireless connection with the mobile terminal through the wireless communication module. If it is determined that there are clothes in the clothing processing cavity, it can control the sending of the image corresponding to the determination that there are clothes in the clothing processing cavity to the mobile terminal to prompt the user to pick up the clothes in time and avoid forgetting clothes that will become moldy or deteriorate.

[0244] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Of course, those skilled in the art can make various modifications without departing from the spirit of the invention as claimed in the claims. These modifications should not be understood separately from the technical concept or prospect of the present invention.

[0245] This invention can be implemented in various forms, and its scope of claim is not limited to the embodiments described above. Therefore, any modified embodiment that includes the constituent elements within the scope of the claims of this invention should be considered to fall within the scope of the claims of this invention.

[0246] The embodiments of the present invention described above, or other embodiments thereof, are not mutually exclusive or distinct. The embodiments of the present invention described above, or other embodiments thereof, can be used in combination or in combination of their respective configurations or functions.

[0247] For example, it indicates that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or figure and configuration B described in another embodiment and / or figure can be combined. That is, even if no combination between the configurations is directly described, it indicates that they can be combined, except where cases where combination is impossible are explained.

[0248] The detailed description above should not be construed as limiting in all respects, but should be considered exemplary. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A garment processing device, characterized in that, include: The housing forms the outer shell of the garment handling device; A door cover is located on the front side wall of the box and is used to open and close the clothing inlet on the box. The outer cylinder is located inside the box. The inner tube is rotatably disposed inside the outer tube, and a clothing processing cavity is formed inside the inner tube; Lifting ribs are distributed along the circumference of the garment processing cavity; A camera is used to acquire images of the garment processing cavity, and the camera's shooting range includes the lifting ribs; An electric motor is used to drive the inner cylinder to rotate; Downlight, the downlight being used to illuminate the garment processing chamber; and a control unit, wherein the control unit is configured to: After the clothing processing program finishes running, if it is detected that the door has been opened and then closed, the downlight is turned on and the camera is controlled to capture a first image. Based on the first image, determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity; If the determination is negative, then control the motor to drive the inner cylinder to rotate in the first direction, and control the camera to capture a second image after the inner cylinder stops rotating; Based on the second image, determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

2. The garment processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber includes: Obtain a background image showing that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity; Calculate the pixel difference between the image captured by the camera and the background image; If the pixel difference value reaches or exceeds the set threshold, it is determined that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity; If all pixel difference values ​​are below the set threshold, it is determined that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

3. The garment processing device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The garment handling device also includes a positioning lock, and the control unit is further configured to: When the motor is controlled to rotate the inner cylinder to a set position, the positioning lock is controlled to pop out to fix the inner cylinder to the set position; After the inner cylinder is fixed to the set position, the camera is controlled to capture images.

4. The garment processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit is also configured to: If it is determined from the second image that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity, then the motor is controlled to drive the inner drum to rotate in the second direction, and after the inner drum stops rotating, the camera is controlled to take a picture to obtain a third image, wherein the second direction is the opposite direction of the first direction; Based on the third image, determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

5. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The control unit is also configured to: If it is determined from the third image that there is no clothing in the clothing processing cavity, then after a set time, the process jumps to the steps of controlling the downlight to turn on and controlling the camera to capture a first image.

6. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The control unit is also configured to: If the number of times the judgment to determine whether there is clothing in the clothing processing chamber is performed reaches a set limit, and all judgments indicate that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber, then it is determined that there is no clothing in the clothing processing chamber.

7. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit is also configured to: If it is detected that the door cover is not closed after being opened, the downlight is turned on and the camera is controlled to capture a fourth image. Based on the fourth image, it is determined whether there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity.

8. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The garment handling device includes a voice module and a display screen; the control unit is further configured to: If it is determined that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity, the voice module is controlled to issue a voice prompt, and the image corresponding to the determination that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity is displayed on the display screen.

9. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The garment handling device further includes a wireless communication module, through which the garment handling device establishes a wireless connection with a mobile terminal; the control unit is further configured to: If it is determined that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity, the control sends the image corresponding to the determination that there is clothing in the clothing processing cavity to the mobile terminal to prompt the user to pick up the clothing.

10. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The camera is located on the upper inner side of the door cover.

Images