Dishwasher and control method therefor, storage medium and program product

Abstract

The application relates to kitchen electrical technology and provides a dishwasher, a control method thereof, a storage medium and a program product. The dishwasher comprises a cleaning cavity, a water tank, a liquid storage assembly, a sensor and a processor. The processor is connected with the sensor and the liquid storage assembly. In the case that a cleaning agent is excessive in the cleaning cavity, the liquid supplement valve is controlled to supplement water to the water tank, so that the excessive cleaning liquid flows to the water storage seat through the water distribution shell for storage. The cleaning liquid stored in the water storage seat is used to perform a next cleaning task. In the case that the water supplement amount reaches a preset water supplement amount, the water supplement is stopped, and the cleaning of the to-be-cleaned object is continued. The application can dilute the cleaning liquid containing excessive cleaning agent, and the excessive cleaning liquid is retained so as to be applied to the next cleaning task, thereby saving the use amount of the cleaning agent.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to kitchen appliance technology. More specifically, it relates to a dishwasher and its control method, storage medium, and program product. Background Technology

[0002] Dishwashers are becoming increasingly popular, allowing users to clean various items such as tableware, fruits and vegetables.

[0003] When using the dishwasher described above, adding too much detergent will produce excessive foam. This excessive foam can easily overflow outside the dishwasher if not drained in time.

[0004] The current solution is mostly to shut down the machine and sound an alarm, waiting for the user to handle it. However, by this time, the foam water has already overflowed, which is time-consuming and laborious, and has already caused adverse effects on the floor around the dishwasher. It also wastes detergent and reduces the user's experience. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a dishwasher and its control method, storage medium and program product, which can solve the problems of existing processing methods where foam water overflows, which is time-consuming and laborious to deal with, and has an adverse effect on the ground around the dishwasher, wasting detergent and reducing the user's user experience.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a dishwasher, the dishwasher comprising:

[0007] The cleaning chamber is configured to hold the item to be cleaned.

[0008] A water tank, disposed at the bottom of the cleaning chamber, is configured to contain washing liquid; the water tank includes:

[0009] A replenishment valve is configured to supply clean water to the water tank;

[0010] A liquid storage assembly is disposed at the bottom of the cleaning chamber and is operably connected to the water tank; the liquid storage assembly includes:

[0011] The water distribution shell is provided with an overflow port, and the opening height of the overflow port is higher than the liquid level of the washing liquid required for the cleaning chamber to perform the cleaning task.

[0012] A water reservoir, connected to the overflow port, is configured to store excess washing liquid flowing in from the overflow port;

[0013] A sensor, disposed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber, is configured to detect whether there is an excess of detergent in the cleaning chamber;

[0014] The processor, connected to the sensor and the replenishment valve, is configured to:

[0015] In the event of excess detergent in the cleaning chamber, the replenishment valve is controlled to replenish water to the water tank, so that the excess washing liquid flows through the water separator to the water storage tank for storage; wherein the washing liquid stored in the water storage tank is used to perform the next cleaning task;

[0016] Once the preset water level has been reached, stop adding water and continue cleaning the items to be cleaned.

[0017] This embodiment incorporates a liquid storage component, allowing excess detergent in the cleaning chamber to be retained in the storage component by replenishing water for use in the next cleaning task. This saves on detergent usage, reduces the risk of foam overflow due to high detergent concentration, and enhances the user experience.

[0018] In some embodiments, the preset water replenishment amount includes:

[0019] The amount of water used to dilute the detergent concentration in the cleaning chamber to a non-excessive level;

[0020] Alternatively, the water storage tank can be made to reach a preset storage capacity of water.

[0021] In this embodiment, by limiting the amount of water replenished to a level sufficient for normal washing, the normal washing process is not affected. Furthermore, the overflow allows excess detergent to be stored along with water in a reservoir for future use. Since the reservoir has a limited capacity, replenishment can be paused once full, and the normal cleaning process can continue.

[0022] In some embodiments, the sensor includes a plurality of photoelectric sensors disposed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber, the plurality of photoelectric sensors being arranged vertically and configured to detect the amount of foam;

[0023] The processor is configured as follows:

[0024] The concentration of detergent in the washing liquid is determined based on the amount of foam detected by the photoelectric sensor.

[0025] Based on the detergent concentration in the washing liquid and the preset detergent concentration, it is determined whether there is excessive detergent in the cleaning chamber.

[0026] In this embodiment, the amount of foam detected by a photoelectric sensor is used to determine the detergent content, thereby further determining when there is an excess of detergent in the washing liquid. At the same time, the function of automatically replenishing detergent can be realized based on whether there is an excess.

[0027] In some embodiments, the liquid reservoir assembly includes:

[0028] A water separator is provided at the bottom of the cleaning chamber. The water separator is provided with an overflow port, and the opening height of the overflow port is higher than the liquid level of the cleaning fluid required for the cleaning chamber to perform the cleaning task.

[0029] A water storage base is located below the water distribution shell and connected to the overflow port, and is configured to operably connect the overflow port and the water tank;

[0030] The water tank includes:

[0031] A replenishment valve is configured to supply washing liquid to the water tank;

[0032] The processor is configured as follows:

[0033] In the event of excessive detergent in the cleaning chamber, the replenishment valve is activated to dilute the washing liquid in the water tank and allow the excess washing liquid in the water tank to enter the water storage base through the overflow port.

[0034] This embodiment utilizes a replenishment valve to connect to an external water source, thereby enabling active control of water addition to dilute the washing liquid, reduce foam generation, and store excess washing liquid in a water storage tank for subsequent reuse.

[0035] In some embodiments, the water storage base further includes:

[0036] A liquid storage tank is configured to store excess washing liquid within the cleaning chamber;

[0037] A one-way valve is located at the bottom of the liquid storage tank and connected to the water tank, and is configured to control the opening and closing of the passage between the liquid storage tank and the water tank;

[0038] The processor is configured as follows:

[0039] When performing the next cleaning task and there is detergent in the storage tank, the amount of detergent added to the cleaning chamber is reduced, and the one-way valve is controlled to operate so as to transport the detergent in the storage tank to the water tank to participate in the cleaning task.

[0040] This embodiment reduces the overall detergent consumption of the dishwasher by reusing the remaining detergent for the next cleaning task.

[0041] In some embodiments, the dishwasher further includes a detergent pump connected to the sink and configured to pump a preset amount of detergent into the sink;

[0042] The processor is configured as follows:

[0043] After the washing liquid in the storage tank is delivered to the water tank to participate in the cleaning task, the concentration of detergent in the washing liquid is determined based on the amount of foam detected by the photoelectric sensor.

[0044] If the concentration of the detergent in the washing liquid does not reach the preset concentration, the detergent pump is controlled to pump a first preset amount of detergent; wherein, the first preset amount is less than the detergent content corresponding to the preset detergent concentration.

[0045] This embodiment utilizes the reserved washing liquid to perform the next cleaning task, and uses sensors to detect whether the reserved washing liquid is sufficient for the current cleaning task. If it is insufficient, new detergent is added to meet the cleaning requirements, thus realizing the function of automatically adding the appropriate amount of detergent and saving detergent usage.

[0046] In some embodiments, the water storage base includes:

[0047] A trigger switch, located inside the liquid storage tank, is configured to control the connection and disconnection between the liquid storage tank and the overflow port passage;

[0048] The water tank also includes:

[0049] A drain valve is configured to drain the washing liquid from the water tank;

[0050] The processor is configured as follows:

[0051] When the trigger switch indicates that the liquid storage tank is full and there is an excess of detergent in the cleaning chamber, the drain valve is controlled to operate to discharge part of the washing liquid in the cleaning chamber.

[0052] This embodiment reduces the risk of excessive foam overflow by draining excess washing liquid through a drain valve when the storage tank is full, and then adding new water to dilute the washing liquid, thus avoiding downtime for users to maintain the machine.

[0053] In some embodiments, multiple sensors are arranged vertically and configured to determine the concentration of detergent in the washing liquid based on the detected foam height. The multiple sensors are arranged at heights higher than a preset liquid level in the cleaning chamber. The preset liquid level is the maximum liquid level in the cleaning chamber when performing a cleaning task.

[0054] This embodiment uses multiple sensors to detect foam height to indirectly determine the detergent content in the washing liquid. This detergent content is then used to determine the amount of detergent to be added to the cleaning chamber during subsequent reuse of the remaining washing liquid, thus saving detergent consumption.

[0055] Multiple sensors can also prevent inaccurate detection results caused by individual sensors being blocked. At the same time, detecting whether the detergent has been added too much can be achieved by detecting the amount of foam, reducing the error in judging the detergent content caused by directly detecting the liquid level or the concentration of detergent.

[0056] In some embodiments, the photoelectric sensor includes a transmitter and a receiver, which are respectively disposed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber arranged opposite to each other.

[0057] This embodiment uses photoelectric sensors to collect photoelectric signals. By utilizing the decrease in the photoelectric signal, it determines whether the amount of foam has reached the standard for excessive detergent dosage. It can also avoid the situation where the photoelectric signal decreases excessively due to the sensor being blocked by foreign objects, which could lead to misidentification as excessive detergent.

[0058] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a method for controlling a dishwasher, the dishwasher comprising:

[0059] The cleaning chamber is configured to hold the item to be cleaned.

[0060] A water tank, disposed at the bottom of the cleaning chamber, is configured to contain washing liquid; the water tank includes:

[0061] A replenishment valve is configured to supply clean water to the water tank;

[0062] A liquid storage assembly is disposed at the bottom of the cleaning chamber and is operably connected to the water tank; the liquid storage assembly includes:

[0063] The water distribution shell is provided with an overflow port, and the opening height of the overflow port is higher than the liquid level of the washing liquid required for the cleaning chamber to perform the cleaning task.

[0064] A water reservoir, connected to the overflow port, is configured to store excess washing liquid flowing in from the overflow port;

[0065] A sensor, disposed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber, is configured to detect whether there is an excess of detergent in the cleaning chamber;

[0066] The processor, connected to the sensor and the replenishment valve, the method includes:

[0067] If there is excess detergent in the cleaning chamber, water is added to the water tank so that the excess washing liquid flows through the water separator to the water storage base for storage; wherein the washing liquid stored in the water storage base is used to perform the next cleaning task;

[0068] Once the preset water level has been reached, stop adding water and continue cleaning the items to be cleaned.

[0069] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implement the aforementioned control method.

[0070] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the above-described control method.

[0071] The dishwasher, its control method, storage medium, and program product of this application, by setting a cleaning chamber configured to accommodate items to be cleaned; a water tank, disposed at the bottom of the cleaning chamber, configured to accommodate washing liquid; a liquid storage assembly, disposed at the bottom of the cleaning chamber and operably connected to the water tank, configured to handle excess washing liquid in the cleaning chamber; a sensor, disposed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber, configured to detect whether there is excess detergent in the cleaning chamber; and a processor, connected to the sensor and the liquid storage assembly, configured to: when there is excess detergent in the cleaning chamber, add water to the water tank so that the liquid storage assembly stores some of the excess washing liquid; and when the water addition reaches a preset amount, stop adding water and continue cleaning the items to be cleaned, thereby diluting the washing liquid containing excess detergent and retaining the excess washing liquid for use in the next cleaning task, thus saving detergent usage. Attached Figure Description

[0072] To more clearly illustrate the implementation methods in the embodiments of this application or related technologies, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings.

[0073] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a dishwasher in an embodiment of this application;

[0074] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a cleaning chamber structure in one embodiment of this application;

[0075] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another cleaning chamber structure in an embodiment of this application;

[0076] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another cleaning chamber structure in an embodiment of this application;

[0077] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the water tank structure in an embodiment of this application;

[0078] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the water-separating shell structure in the embodiments of this application;

[0079] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the water storage base structure in the embodiments of this application;

[0080] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the application scenario of the dishwasher in the embodiments of this application;

[0081] Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating the control method for the dishwasher provided in this application;

[0082] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating another control method for a dishwasher provided in this application.

[0083] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0084] 10. Door body;

[0085] 20. Box body;

[0086] 30. Sink;

[0087] 40. Liquid storage assembly; 41. Water separator; 411. Overflow port; 42. Water reservoir; 421. Liquid storage chamber;

[0088] 50. Sensors;

[0089] 61. Dishwasher; 62. Interactive component; 63. Network; 64. Server; 65. Terminal device. Detailed Implementation

[0090] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0091] To make the objectives, implementation methods and advantages of this application clearer, the exemplary implementation methods of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the exemplary embodiments of this application. Obviously, the described exemplary embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0092] It should be noted that the brief descriptions of terms in this application are only for the convenience of understanding the embodiments described below, and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this application. Unless otherwise stated, these terms should be understood in their ordinary and common meaning.

[0093] Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover but not exclusively include, for example, a product or device that includes a series of components is not necessarily limited to those that are explicitly listed, but may include other components that are not explicitly listed or that are inherent to such product or device.

[0094] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "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 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.

[0095] The terms "first" and "second" are configured for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0096] 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.

[0097] In related technologies, dishwashers require detergent to operate, and the detergent produces foam after dissolving in water. Existing dishwashers have an overflow outlet in the inner drum. When the amount of foam exceeds normal levels, for example, when the user adds too much detergent, the foam carries water from the overflow outlet onto the base, triggering an alarm to alert the user of the malfunction. Simultaneously, the dishwasher stops operating, requiring the user to seek after-sales service or perform repairs themselves, thus delaying the use of the dishwasher and causing detergent waste and repair costs.

[0098] In view of this, the dishwasher provided in this application, when detecting excessive detergent, dilutes the detergent in the cleaning chamber by adding water, and takes advantage of the characteristic that excessive water will overflow from the overflow port after dilution, a liquid storage component is set at the overflow port to retain the excess detergent for the next cleaning, thereby reducing the consumption of detergent. It can also reduce the amount of foam generated due to the dilution process, aiming to solve the above-mentioned problems of the prior art.

[0099] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0100] First, it should be noted that in this embodiment, when the user faces the dishwasher door, the width direction of the dishwasher, i.e., the left-right direction, corresponds to the X-axis direction in the attached drawing; the depth direction of the dishwasher, i.e., the depth direction of the cleaning chamber of the dishwasher, i.e., the front-back direction, corresponds to the Y-axis direction in the attached drawing; and the height direction of the dishwasher, i.e., the up-down direction, corresponds to the Z-axis direction in the attached drawing.

[0101] The width of the dishwasher door is the dimension along the X-axis in the attached drawing when the door is closed, the thickness of the door is the dimension along the Y-axis in the attached drawing when the door is closed, and the height of the door is the dimension along the Z-axis in the attached drawing.

[0102] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of this application. (Reference) Figure 1 As shown, the dishwasher in this embodiment of the application includes a door 10 and a cabinet 20, which together enclose a cleaning cavity.

[0103] The cabinet 20 includes a cleaning chamber with a front opening for storing items to be washed. A door 10 is installed on the front of the storage compartment and is configured to open or close the cleaning chamber.

[0104] The cleaning chamber can be equipped with one storage compartment or multiple storage compartments, which can be arranged at intervals along the height and / or width of the dishwasher.

[0105] For example, shelves can be installed in the storage room to increase the storage space for items.

[0106] For example, the storage room can also be equipped with drawers that can be pulled out relative to the depth of the dishwasher, making it convenient to classify, store, and retrieve items.

[0107] In some embodiments, the door 10 is rotatably mounted on the housing 20 to open or close the storage compartment.

[0108] For example, the door 10 is rotatably connected to the housing 20 via a hinge assembly.

[0109] When there are multiple storage rooms, there can be one door 10, and multiple storage rooms can share one door 10; or, there can be multiple doors 10, each corresponding to a different storage room.

[0110] In some embodiments, the door 10 may also be slidably mounted on the housing 20 to open or close the storage compartment. For example, the door 10 is pull-outly connected to the housing 20 via a slide rail assembly. When multiple storage compartments are provided, multiple doors 10 may be provided, each corresponding to a different storage compartment.

[0111] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a cleaning chamber structure in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another cleaning chamber structure in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another cleaning chamber structure in an embodiment of this application. (Refer to...) Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the cleaning chamber includes: a water tank 30, a liquid storage assembly 40, and a sensor 50.

[0112] The sensor 50 is disposed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber and is configured to detect whether there is an excessive amount of detergent in the cleaning chamber.

[0113] In some embodiments, a plurality of sensors 50 are provided, and the plurality of sensors are respectively disposed on the inner wall of each side of the cleaning chamber.

[0114] For example, the cleaning chamber is formed by the left wall, right wall, rear wall, top wall, and bottom wall of the housing 20 and the front wall of the door 10. Sensors 50 are respectively disposed on the left wall, right wall, and rear wall of the housing 20 and the front wall of the door 10, and are disposed at the same height, so as to more accurately detect whether the amount of foam is excessive.

[0115] Optionally, the sensor includes a photoelectric sensor.

[0116] The photoelectric sensor includes a transmitter and a receiver, which are respectively disposed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber that are arranged opposite to each other, so that the receiver receives the rays emitted by the transmitter.

[0117] When the dishwasher starts working, the detergent added to the cleaning chamber dissolves and produces foam. If the user adds too much detergent, the amount of foam produced will inevitably exceed the normal level. The light intensity passing through the foam will be lower than normal, and the intensity of the light generated by the generator reaching the receiver through the foam will be weakened. For example, several light generators can be set on one side and several light receivers on the other side. When the dishwasher is working, the generator emits light to the receivers, and the receivers analyze the intensity of the received light to determine the point at which excessive foam has occurred.

[0118] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the water tank structure in an embodiment of this application. (Refer to...) Figure 5 As shown, a water tank 30 is located at the bottom of the cleaning chamber and is configured to contain washing liquid.

[0119] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the bottom of the cleaning chamber is recessed downwards, and a hole is made at the deepest part of the recess to connect the water tank 30.

[0120] The water tank 30 includes:

[0121] The water inlet is connected to the liquid storage component 40 and can receive the residual washing liquid discharged from the liquid storage component 40.

[0122] The replenishment valve, connected to an external water pump or other water replenishment mechanism, is configured to provide clean water or other washing liquid into the cleaning chamber;

[0123] A drain valve, connected to an external water pipe or other drainage mechanism, is configured to drain the washing liquid from the cleaning chamber.

[0124] For example, a liquid storage assembly 40 is disposed at the bottom of the cleaning chamber and operably connected to the water tank 30, and is configured to handle excess washing liquid in the cleaning chamber.

[0125] The liquid storage component 40 includes: a water separator 41 and a water storage base 42.

[0126] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the water-separating shell structure in an embodiment of this application. (Refer to...) Figure 6 As shown, a water distribution shell 41 is disposed at the bottom of the cleaning chamber. An overflow port 411 is provided on the water distribution shell 41, and the opening height of the overflow port 411 is higher than the liquid level of the cleaning fluid required for the cleaning chamber to perform the cleaning task.

[0127] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the water storage base structure in an embodiment of this application. (Refer to...) Figure 7 As shown, the water storage base 42 is located below the water distribution shell 41 and connected to the overflow port 411, and is configured to operably connect the overflow port 411 and the water tank 30.

[0128] The water storage base 42 includes:

[0129] The liquid storage tank 421 is configured to store excess washing liquid in the cleaning chamber;

[0130] A one-way valve is located at the bottom of the liquid storage tank 421 and connected to the water tank 30. It is configured to control the opening and closing of the passage between the liquid storage tank 421 and the water tank 30.

[0131] A trigger switch, located inside the liquid storage tank 421, is configured to control the connection and disconnection between the liquid storage tank 421 and the overflow port 411.

[0132] For example, the trigger switch is set at the top of the liquid storage tank 421. A suspended ball can be set inside the liquid storage tank 421. The position of the suspended ball is adjusted according to the position of the liquid level in the liquid storage tank 421. When the liquid storage tank 421 is full, the suspended ball contacts the trigger switch, indicating that the liquid storage tank 421 is full and can no longer retain more washing liquid.

[0133] In some embodiments, the dishwasher may also be equipped with an interactive component configured to interact with a user or an external device. By touching the interactive component, the user can send an operation request to the dishwasher's processor, such as a request to release retained detergent, so that the detergent remaining in the reservoir can be controlled by the user to enter the cleaning chamber immediately according to their needs. The processor generates a corresponding operation instruction based on the operation request and then sends the operation instruction to the corresponding actuator in the dishwasher to fulfill the user's operation request.

[0134] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the application scenario of the dishwasher in this application embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 8 As shown, the dishwasher 61 can be equipped with an interactive component 62. The interactive component 62 can be connected to the server 64 via the network 63, and the server 64 can be connected to the terminal device 65 via communication, thereby realizing the connection and control between the terminal device and the dishwasher 61. In addition, the interactive component 62 can also be directly connected to the terminal device 65 via communication.

[0135] For example, the interactive component 62 may include: a touch display component, and / or function keys, and / or a voice acquisition component, and / or a communication component.

[0136] The processor generates corresponding operation instructions by acquiring the user's operation on the interaction component 62. These operation instructions may include determining whether there is residual liquid in the storage tank, and executing a residual washing liquid release instruction when there is residual liquid in the storage tank.

[0137] For example, a touch display component may include a touch screen installed on a dishwasher.

[0138] In this implementation, the processor acquires the electrical signal generated after the user operates the touch screen, and determines the user's operation request based on the electrical signal, thereby generating an operation instruction that matches the operation request.

[0139] For example, function buttons may include physical buttons located on the dishwasher or touch-sensitive virtual buttons.

[0140] In this implementation, the processor acquires the trigger signal generated after the user operates on the physical button or the touch-sensitive virtual button, and generates the corresponding operation instruction based on the trigger signal.

[0141] It should be understood that there may be one or more physical buttons or touch-sensitive virtual buttons.

[0142] With only one function key, different operation commands can be generated by triggering the single function key a different number of times to meet different user operation requests.

[0143] Alternatively, if there is only one function key, different operation commands can be generated by varying the duration of continuous triggering of a single function key to meet different user operation requests.

[0144] When multiple function keys are set, various corresponding operation commands can be generated through different combinations of these function keys to meet different user operation requests.

[0145] For example, the voice acquisition component may include a microphone set on a dishwasher.

[0146] Users can select the dishwasher's anti-overflow function via voice input. In this implementation, the processor acquires the electrical signal generated by the voice acquisition component due to the user's voice input and converts it into a corresponding operation command as the user's operation request.

[0147] For example, users can input the corresponding label statement for the anti-overflow function via voice input, thereby obtaining the user's selected residual detergent release operation based on the user's voice input.

[0148] Alternatively, users can input their desired detergent-saving effect via voice, which will then be used to find the corresponding detergent-retaining operation based on the user's voice input, thus obtaining the detergent-retaining operation selected by the user.

[0149] In some embodiments, the voice acquisition component can be controlled by associating it with function keys. Users can activate the voice acquisition component to perform voice acquisition by operating the function keys, or they can activate it via a voice command or a key associated with the voice acquisition component after operating the function keys.

[0150] For example, communication components may include Bluetooth modules, Wi-Fi modules, etc., installed on the dishwasher. These communication components enable the dishwasher to communicate with associated terminal devices, allowing users to send selected instructions to release residual detergent through these devices.

[0151] In practice, the terminal device can wirelessly connect to the dishwasher via a communication component to perform the aforementioned sending action. Alternatively, the dishwasher can connect to a network and a server via a communication component, allowing the terminal device to send the user-selected residual detergent release operation to the dishwasher through the server.

[0152] In this implementation, the terminal device can be equipped with an app configured to view and control whether there is residual liquid in the dishwasher's liquid storage tank, allowing users to check whether there is residual liquid in the liquid storage tank through the app interface.

[0153] Optionally, the user can activate the communication component to establish a communication connection by operating the first function key, or in other words, enter a network state. Alternatively, the user can operate the first function key and then trigger the communication connection through a communication connection command or key press.

[0154] It should be understood that dishwashers can have multiple communication components, and different communication components have different communication functions.

[0155] For example, it can have both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi modules. In this implementation, the user can select the desired communication component, or trigger the default communication component to establish a communication connection, or trigger the user's commonly used communication component to establish a communication connection, or have multiple communication components in operation until one of the communication components receives a residual detergent release operation sent by the user through the terminal device.

[0156] In some embodiments, the dishwasher may also include a storage component, with both the processor and the storage component located inside the dishwasher.

[0157] Alternatively, the storage component can be integrated with the processor, or it can be a separate component from the processor.

[0158] Storage components are configured to store data; for example, various software control programs, some modes and / or parameters of terminal devices, etc.

[0159] Specifically, the program may include program code, which includes computer operation instructions.

[0160] A processor may include, for example, one or more circuits or chips that have control functions.

[0161] The processor is configured to control the dishwasher's operation and respond to user commands via various software control programs stored in memory.

[0162] The execution entity in this application embodiment can be the processor in the dishwasher or the server corresponding to the dishwasher. The server is located in the cloud, connected to the dishwasher via a network, and issues control commands to the dishwasher, or forwards control commands sent by the user through a terminal device to the dishwasher, etc.

[0163] The following uses the processor in a dishwasher as an example to illustrate the technical solution of this application and how it solves the aforementioned technical problems. The following specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be described again in some embodiments. The embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0164] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method for the dishwasher provided in this application. Figure 9 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0165] S91. In the event of excessive detergent in the cleaning chamber, control the replenishment valve to replenish water to the water tank so that the excess washing liquid flows through the water separator to the water storage base for storage.

[0166] The washing liquid stored in the water reservoir is used to perform the next cleaning task.

[0167] Specifically, the system uses sensors to detect whether the foam in the washing chamber exceeds a preset threshold. If so, it indicates that there is excessive detergent in the washing liquid in the washing chamber.

[0168] Optionally, when it is determined that there is too much detergent in the cleaning chamber, the judgment process can be realized by a sensor installed on the side wall. For example, a light generator and a light receiver can be used. When the user puts in too much detergent, the amount of foam generated will definitely exceed the normal level. The light intensity of the passing foam is lower than the normal value. When it is converted in the receiver and is lower than the threshold, the receiver generates an electrical signal and transmits it to the dishwasher's processor. The processor controls the dishwasher to add a certain amount of clean water. At this time, the water level in the washing chamber will rise, thereby diluting the excessive washing liquid.

[0169] For example, in the event of an excess of detergent in the cleaning chamber, the replenishment valve is controlled to operate to dilute the washing liquid in the water tank and allow the excess washing liquid in the water tank to enter the water storage seat through the overflow port.

[0170] S92. Once the water level reaches the preset level, stop adding water and continue cleaning the items to be cleaned.

[0171] The preset water replenishment amount includes: the amount of water used to dilute the washing liquid in the cleaning chamber to a non-excessive state; or, the amount of water used to bring the liquid storage component to a preset storage capacity.

[0172] By limiting the amount of water added to dilute the detergent to a level suitable for normal washing, the normal washing process is not affected. Furthermore, the overflow allows excess detergent to be stored along with water in a reservoir for later use. Since the reservoir has a limited capacity, once full, water replenishment can be paused, and the normal cleaning process can continue.

[0173] It should be understood that when the trigger switch indicates that the liquid storage tank is full and there is an excess of detergent in the cleaning chamber, the drain valve is controlled to operate in order to discharge part of the washing liquid in the cleaning chamber.

[0174] Specifically, once the storage tank is full, the water supply to the cleaning chamber is stopped, and the normal cleaning task is performed. However, the sensor continues to work normally. If excessive foam is detected during the cleaning process, water is continued to flow into the cleaning chamber to dilute the washing liquid in the cleaning chamber to a non-excessive state. Since the storage tank is full, the excess washing liquid needs to flow out of the cleaning chamber through the drain valve.

[0175] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating another control method for the dishwasher provided in this application. Figure 10 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0176] S91. In the event of excessive detergent in the cleaning chamber, control the replenishment valve to replenish water to the water tank so that the excess washing liquid flows through the water separator to the water storage base for storage.

[0177] The washing liquid stored in the water reservoir is used to perform the next cleaning task.

[0178] S92. Once the water level reaches the preset level, stop adding water and continue cleaning the items to be cleaned.

[0179] The specific implementation process of S91 and S92 is the same as that in the above embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0180] S93. When performing the next cleaning task and there is detergent in the storage tank, control the one-way valve to operate so as to deliver the detergent in the storage tank to the water tank to participate in the cleaning task.

[0181] S94. After the washing liquid in the storage tank is delivered to the water tank to participate in the cleaning task, the concentration of detergent in the washing liquid is determined based on the amount of foam detected by the photoelectric sensor.

[0182] The sensor includes multiple photoelectric sensors disposed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber, which are arranged vertically and configured to detect the amount of foam.

[0183] Therefore, the detergent concentration in the washing liquid is determined based on the amount of foam detected by the photoelectric sensor.

[0184] Determine whether the detergent concentration in the washing liquid meets the preset detergent concentration to determine whether there is excessive detergent in the cleaning chamber.

[0185] S95. If the concentration of the washing liquid in the washing liquid does not reach the preset detergent concentration, control the detergent pump to pump a first preset amount of detergent.

[0186] Wherein, the first preset amount is less than the detergent content corresponding to the preset detergent concentration.

[0187] For example, the first preset amount can be a preset fixed value, such as adding one milliliter of new detergent each time the preset detergent concentration is detected to be not reached.

[0188] Optionally, the first preset amount can also be determined based on the difference between the preset detergent concentration and the current detergent concentration, and based on the current volume of the washing liquid in the cleaning chamber, to determine a new detergent volume corresponding to the difference, which is the first preset amount.

[0189] This embodiment controls the addition of detergent from the storage tank to the cleaning chamber, thereby reducing the amount of new detergent added to the cleaning chamber and achieving the detergent-saving function of this application.

[0190] It should be understood that when performing the next cleaning task, the detergent in the reservoir should be used first, and then new detergent should be used.

[0191] If there is no detergent in the reservoir when the next cleaning task is performed, new detergent will be added directly according to the normal cleaning task procedure.

[0192] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium, which may include various media capable of storing program code, such as a USB flash drive, a portable hard drive, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk. Specifically, the computer-readable storage medium stores program instructions configured as the methods described in the above embodiments.

[0193] This application also provides a computer program product including computer-executable instructions stored in a readable storage medium. At least one control module of the dishwasher can read the computer-executable instructions from the readable storage medium, and the at least one control module executes the computer-executable instructions to cause the dishwasher to perform the methods provided in the various embodiments described above.

[0194] 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 or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

[0195] For ease of explanation, the above description has been provided in conjunction with specific embodiments. However, the above exemplary discussion is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the specific forms disclosed above. Various modifications and variations can be obtained based on the above teachings. The selection and description of the above embodiments are for the purpose of better explaining the principles and practical applications, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to better utilize the described embodiments and various different variations of embodiments suitable for specific use considerations.

Claims

1. A dishwasher, characterized in that, include: The cleaning chamber is configured to hold the item to be cleaned. A water tank, located at the bottom of the cleaning chamber, is configured to hold washing liquid; The water tank includes: A replenishment valve is configured to supply clean water to the water tank; A liquid storage assembly is disposed at the bottom of the cleaning chamber and is operably connected to the water tank; the liquid storage assembly includes: The water distribution shell is provided with an overflow port, and the opening height of the overflow port is higher than the liquid level of the washing liquid required for the cleaning chamber to perform the cleaning task. A water reservoir, connected to the overflow port, is configured to store excess washing liquid flowing in from the overflow port; A sensor, disposed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber, is configured to detect whether there is an excess of detergent in the cleaning chamber; The processor, connected to the sensor and the replenishment valve, is configured to: In the event of excess detergent in the cleaning chamber, the replenishment valve is controlled to replenish water to the water tank, so that the excess washing liquid flows through the water separator to the water storage tank for storage; wherein the washing liquid stored in the water storage tank is used to perform the next cleaning task; Once the preset water level has been reached, stop adding water and continue cleaning the items to be cleaned.

2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The preset water replenishment amount includes: The amount of water used to dilute the detergent concentration in the cleaning chamber to a non-excessive level; Alternatively, the water storage tank can be made to reach a preset storage capacity of water.

3. The dishwasher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor includes multiple photoelectric sensors disposed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber, and the multiple photoelectric sensors are arranged vertically and vertically and configured to detect the amount of foam. The processor is configured as follows: The concentration of detergent in the washing liquid is determined based on the amount of foam detected by the photoelectric sensor. Based on the detergent concentration in the washing liquid and the preset detergent concentration, it is determined whether there is excessive detergent in the cleaning chamber.

4. The dishwasher according to claim 3, characterized in that, The water storage base includes: A liquid storage tank is configured to store excess washing liquid within the cleaning chamber; A one-way valve is located at the bottom of the liquid storage tank and connected to the water tank, and is configured to control the opening and closing of the passage between the liquid storage tank and the water tank; The processor is configured as follows: When performing the next cleaning task and there is detergent in the storage tank, the one-way valve is controlled to operate so as to deliver the detergent in the storage tank to the water tank to participate in the cleaning task.

5. The dishwasher according to claim 4, characterized in that, The dishwasher also includes a detergent pump connected to the water tank and configured to pump a preset amount of detergent into the water tank. The processor is configured as follows: After the washing liquid in the storage tank is delivered to the water tank to participate in the cleaning task, the concentration of detergent in the washing liquid is determined based on the amount of foam detected by the photoelectric sensor. If the concentration of the washing liquid in the washing liquid does not reach the preset detergent concentration, the detergent pump is controlled to pump a first preset amount of detergent; wherein the first preset amount is less than the detergent content corresponding to the preset detergent concentration.

6. The dishwasher according to claim 4, characterized in that, The water storage base includes a trigger switch, which is disposed in the liquid storage tank and configured to control the connection and disconnection between the liquid storage tank and the overflow port passage; The water tank also includes a drain valve configured to drain the washing liquid in the water tank; The processor is configured as follows: When the trigger switch indicates that the liquid storage tank is full and there is an excess of detergent in the cleaning chamber, the drain valve is controlled to operate to discharge part of the washing liquid in the cleaning chamber.

7. The dishwasher according to claim 3, characterized in that, The photoelectric sensor includes a transmitter and a receiver, which are respectively disposed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber that are arranged opposite to each other.

8. A method for controlling a dishwasher, characterized in that, The dishwasher includes: The cleaning chamber is configured to hold the item to be cleaned. A water tank, disposed at the bottom of the cleaning chamber, is configured to contain washing liquid; the water tank includes: A replenishment valve is configured to supply clean water to the water tank; A liquid storage assembly is disposed at the bottom of the cleaning chamber and is operably connected to the water tank; the liquid storage assembly includes: The water distribution shell is provided with an overflow port, and the opening height of the overflow port is higher than the liquid level of the washing liquid required for the cleaning chamber to perform the cleaning task. A water reservoir, connected to the overflow port, is configured to store excess washing liquid flowing in from the overflow port; A sensor, disposed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber, is configured to detect whether there is an excess of detergent in the cleaning chamber; The processor, connected to the sensor and the replenishment valve, the method includes: If there is excess detergent in the cleaning chamber, water is added to the water tank so that the excess washing liquid flows through the water separator to the water storage base for storage; wherein the washing liquid stored in the water storage base is used to perform the next cleaning task; Once the preset water level has been reached, stop adding water and continue cleaning the items to be cleaned.

9. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer-executable instructions that, when executed by a processor, implement the method of claim 8.

10. A computer program product, characterized in that, Includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the method of claim 8.

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