Washing machine control method and apparatus, washing machine, and storage medium

Abstract

The application provides a washing machine control method and device, a washing machine and a storage medium. In the application, instead of detecting foam by means of the change of the water level pressure value as in the related art, the presence of excessive foam in the drum is accurately determined by means of a drying assembly, by acquiring a first temperature value of the hot air output by the drying assembly after entering the drum, and determining whether the first temperature value meets a preset temperature condition, so as to determine whether to enter a defoaming process. This makes it possible to reliably trigger the defoaming process even in the small-volume scenario described in the background art, preventing foam from overflowing out of the drum and effectively ensuring the purposes of washing effect, rinsing effect or dehydration effect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of equipment control technology, and in particular to a washing machine control method, device, washing machine and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] During the washing, rinsing, or spin-drying process of a washing machine, a large amount of foam may be generated. When excessive foam is detected in the washing machine drum, timely defoaming is crucial to ensuring the washing, rinsing, or spin-drying effects.

[0003] In related technologies, excessive foam is detected by monitoring changes in the water pressure inside the drum. However, this method cannot accurately detect excessive foam in scenarios where water pressure fluctuations are sensitive. For example, in washing machines with small capacities, the water pressure changes during washing and spin-drying are more pronounced, making it difficult to determine whether the changes are due to the water itself or the foam, thus hindering accurate detection of excessive foam. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To overcome the problems existing in the related technologies, this application provides a washing machine control method, device, washing machine, and storage medium.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a washing machine control method, the washing machine comprising: a drying assembly and a drum, the drum being used to contain washed items, and the drying assembly being used to dry the washed items; The method includes: When the washing machine is in operation, turn on the drying unit; Obtain a first temperature value, which is the temperature of the hot air output by the drying component after entering the cylinder; In response to the first temperature value meeting the temperature condition, the washing machine is controlled to enter the defoaming process.

[0006] In the embodiment of this application, instead of relying on changes in water level and pressure for foam detection as in related technologies, the drying component is used. The first temperature value of the hot air output from the drying component after entering the drum is obtained, and the presence of excessive foam inside the drum is accurately determined based on whether the first temperature value meets preset temperature conditions, thus determining whether to initiate the defoaming process. This allows for reliable triggering of the defoaming process even in scenarios with small volumes as described in the background art, preventing foam from overflowing the drum and effectively ensuring the washing, rinsing, or dehydration effects.

[0007] In some example implementations, the response to the first temperature value satisfying a temperature condition includes: Determine if the first temperature value reaches the preset temperature range; Alternatively, the temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value is determined to reach a preset difference threshold; the second temperature value is the temperature of the hot air output by the drying component before it passes through the cylinder.

[0008] In the embodiments of this application example, by determining whether the first temperature value reaches the preset temperature value range, or by determining whether the temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value meets the difference threshold, it is determined whether there is excessive foam in the cylinder, thereby determining whether to enter the defoaming process, and thus achieving the purpose of timely defoaming when there is excessive foam in the cylinder.

[0009] In some example implementations, controlling the washing machine to enter the defoaming process in response to the first temperature value satisfying a temperature condition includes: In response to the first temperature value meeting the temperature condition, the washing machine is controlled to switch from the working process to the defoaming process; the working process includes a washing process, a rinsing process, or a spin-drying process.

[0010] In the embodiments of this application, the first temperature value is monitored during any of the working processes, such as the washing process, rinsing process, or spin-drying process, to ensure that the temperature conditions are met. This allows for timely switching from the working process to the defoaming process, preventing the continuous accumulation and overflow of foam, thereby improving the operational stability and washing reliability of the washing machine.

[0011] In some example implementations, determining the temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value to reach a preset difference threshold includes: Obtain the drying mode of the washing machine; Based on the mapping relationship between drying mode and difference threshold, the difference threshold corresponding to the drying mode is determined; different drying modes correspond to different drying temperatures. The temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value is determined to reach the difference threshold.

[0012] In the implementation of this application example, by setting corresponding difference thresholds for different drying modes, determining whether to enter the defoaming process by judging whether the temperature difference reaches the difference threshold is more in line with the actual operating conditions, thereby achieving the purpose of accurately triggering the defoaming process.

[0013] In some example implementations, the difference threshold is obtained through the following steps: Under specified test conditions, when there is no foam in the cylinder, the first test temperature of the hot air at the inlet of the exhaust duct is obtained; the inlet of the exhaust duct is the inlet position of the exhaust duct into which the hot air enters after leaving the cylinder. When the foam in the cylinder reaches a specified test height, the second test temperature of the hot air at the inlet of the exhaust duct is obtained; The difference threshold is determined based on the difference between the first test temperature and the second test temperature.

[0014] In the embodiments of this application, the difference threshold is obtained in the above manner, which provides a strong basis for determining whether the temperature difference reaches the difference threshold and whether to enter the defoaming process.

[0015] In some example implementations, the first temperature value is obtained through the following steps: Obtain the first temperature value of the hot air at the inlet of the exhaust drying duct; the inlet of the exhaust drying duct is the inlet position of the exhaust drying duct that the hot air enters after leaving the cylinder; The second temperature value is obtained through the following steps: Obtain the second temperature value of the hot air at the outlet of the air supply duct; the outlet of the air supply duct is the outlet position of the air supply duct that sends the hot air into the cylinder.

[0016] In the embodiment of this application, the temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value obtained in this way can accurately reflect the temperature reduction of the hot air output by the drying component after passing through the cylinder. This helps to determine whether to enter the defoaming process by judging whether the temperature difference reaches the difference threshold.

[0017] In some example implementations, after controlling the washing machine to enter the defoaming process, the method further includes: In response to determining that the conditions for ending the defoaming process are met, the washing machine is controlled to switch from the defoaming process back to the workflow before entering the defoaming process.

[0018] In the embodiment of this application, after the washing machine enters the defoaming process, it can automatically switch back to the original workflow when the defoaming process termination condition is met, avoiding unnecessary process interruptions. In this way, effective defoaming is achieved while ensuring the continuity of the original workflow.

[0019] In some example implementations, the response to determining that the defoaming process termination condition is met includes: The washing machine continuously enters the defoaming process for a first set duration.

[0020] In the implementation of this application example, by setting the maximum duration of the defoaming process (first set duration), the defoaming process is prevented from being extended indefinitely, ensuring that the washing machine automatically returns to the original workflow within a reasonable time.

[0021] In some example implementations, the method further includes: Save the working parameters of the washing machine before it enters the defoaming process; After the washing machine switches back from the defoaming process to the previous workflow, the washing machine is controlled to continue operating based on the saved operating parameters.

[0022] In the embodiments of this application example, by saving the working parameters of the washing machine's workflow before the defoaming process, the washing machine can accurately restore the original working state when switching back from the defoaming process to the original workflow, avoiding process disorder caused by repeated operations or restarts.

[0023] In some example implementations, the defoaming process includes the following steps: Pause the washing machine's workflow; Perform water injection and drainage operations to eliminate foam inside the cylinder.

[0024] In the embodiments of this application, by performing the above-described defoaming process, foam inside the drum can be effectively eliminated, preventing foam overflow and affecting the working performance of the washing machine.

[0025] In some example implementations, obtaining the first temperature value includes: When the interval between the last acquisition of the first temperature value and the last acquisition of the first temperature value reaches the second set time, the first temperature value is acquired.

[0026] In the embodiment of this application example, by acquiring the first temperature value at a second set time interval, it is possible to monitor temperature changes in a timely manner and quickly trigger the defoaming process when the first temperature value meets the temperature conditions, so as to defoam in a timely manner. At the same time, it can avoid the repeated start and stop of the drying component due to frequent temperature acquisition, thus avoiding interference with the original workflow of the washing machine and energy waste.

[0027] In some example implementations, the method further includes, prior to activating the drying assembly: When the washing machine is in operation, the sum of the first rated power of the drying component and the second rated power of the heating component of the washing machine is obtained, wherein the heating component is used to heat the water in the drum during the operation. The drying assembly is turned on when the power is specified and the preset power threshold is met.

[0028] In the embodiments of this application, by controlling the start-stop strategy of the heating and drying components based on the comparison result of the sum of the rated power of the drying and heating components and the preset power threshold during the washing machine's workflow, it is possible to effectively avoid the machine's power exceeding the limit, ensure electrical safety, and also meet the requirement of detecting foam inside the drum.

[0029] In some example implementations, turning on the drying assembly under the condition of the power and meeting a preset power threshold includes: If the sum of the first rated power and the second rated power reaches the set power threshold, then the heating component is turned off and the drying component is turned on. Alternatively, if the sum of the first rated power and the second rated power does not reach the set power threshold, the drying component is turned on while the heating component continues to operate.

[0030] In the embodiments of this application, turning off the heating component and then turning on the drying component when the power reaches a set power threshold can prevent total power overload, while running both components simultaneously when the power does not reach the set power threshold can ensure the heating and washing effect.

[0031] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a washing machine control device. A drying assembly and a drum, the drum for containing washed items, the drying assembly for drying the washed items; the apparatus includes: The first control module is used to activate the drying assembly when the washing machine is in operation. The acquisition module is used to acquire a first temperature value, which is the temperature of the hot air output by the drying component after entering the cylinder; The second control module is used to control the washing machine to enter the defoaming process in response to the first temperature value meeting the temperature condition.

[0032] Thirdly, embodiments of this application also provide a washing machine, the washing machine comprising: A tub for holding items to be washed; A drying assembly for drying the washed items; A controller is configured to perform the method provided in the first aspect of the embodiments of this application to control the spin-drying process of the washing machine.

[0033] Fourthly, embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, performs the method provided in the first aspect of embodiments of this application.

[0034] Fifthly, embodiments of this application also provide a computer program product, including a computer program / instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implements the method provided in the first aspect of embodiments of this application.

[0035] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide an electronic device, including a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the processor executes the computer program to implement the method provided in the first aspect of embodiments of this application.

[0036] The technical solution provided in this application may include the following beneficial effects: As can be seen from the above embodiments, in this application embodiment, foam detection is no longer based on changes in water level and pressure, as in related technologies. Instead, it utilizes a drying component to obtain the first temperature value of the hot air output from the drying component after entering the drum. The presence of excessive foam inside the drum is accurately determined based on whether the first temperature value meets preset temperature conditions, thereby determining whether to initiate the defoaming process. This ensures that even in scenarios with small volumes as described in the background technology, the defoaming process can still be reliably triggered, preventing foam from overflowing the drum and effectively guaranteeing the washing, rinsing, or dehydration effects.

[0037] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0038] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this application, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a washing machine according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of a straight-line drying tunnel system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0041] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a washing machine control method according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0042] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a washing machine control method according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating a washing machine control device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0044] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0045] 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.

[0046] The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and includes any or all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0047] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used in this application to describe various information, such information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish information of the same type from one another. For example, without departing from the scope of this application, first information may also be referred to as second information, and similarly, second information may also be referred to as first information. Depending on the context, the word "if" as used herein may be interpreted as "when," "when," or "in response to determination."

[0048] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a washing machine according to an exemplary embodiment, the washing machine including a drying assembly, a drum, and a controller.

[0049] The drum is used to hold the washed items, the drying assembly is used to dry the washed items, and the controller is used to execute the steps of the method provided in the following embodiments. The specific execution steps of the controller are detailed in the following embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0050] In one example, the washing machine is a mini washing machine, which is defined as a washing machine with a rated washing capacity of less than 1 kilogram.

[0051] In one example, the washing machine can also be a dual-zone washing machine with two independent washing areas (i.e., two drums), one of which has a washing capacity of less than 1 kg. Optionally, the two drums can be top-and-bottom twin drums, side-by-side twin drums, etc.

[0052] In one example, the drying duct in the drying unit of the washing machine is of the direct exhaust type. A direct exhaust drying unit means that the hot air of the drying unit enters the drum through the air supply duct. After the dried and washed items are turned into wet steam, the wet steam is directly discharged outside the washing machine through the exhaust duct. There is no return air duct for heat recovery, and the wet steam is not recycled.

[0053] The so-called air supply drying duct refers to the drying duct that sends the hot air blown out by the drying components into the cylinder, while the so-called air exhaust drying duct refers to the drying duct that discharges the hot air that flows through the cylinder.

[0054] For example, Figure 2 This is a structural diagram illustrating a straight-flow drying tunnel system according to an exemplary embodiment, such as... Figure 2 As shown, hot air enters the drum at point A (i.e., the outlet of the air supply duct) and leaves the drum at point B (i.e., the inlet of the exhaust duct), exiting the washing machine directly through point C (i.e., the inlet of the exhaust duct).

[0055] The so-called air supply drying duct outlet is the outlet position of the air supply drying duct that sends hot air into the cylinder, and the so-called exhaust drying duct inlet is the inlet position of the exhaust drying duct that the hot air enters after leaving the cylinder.

[0056] Below Figure 1 and Figure 2 Based on the structure shown, the method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail: Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a washing machine control method according to an exemplary embodiment. Optionally, the method may be executed by a controller inside the washing machine.

[0057] like Figure 3 As shown, the method includes the following steps: Step S301: With the washing machine in operation, turn on the drying unit.

[0058] In this embodiment, the workflow includes at least one of a washing process, a rinsing process, or a dehydration process.

[0059] In the above-described workflow, the purpose of turning on the drying unit is to emit hot air to detect foam inside the drum, not to dry the clothes.

[0060] In one example, considering that both the washing and heating components and the drying components require energy to operate, when the washing machine is in the washing and heating state, the sum of the first rated power of the drying component and the second rated power of the heating component is obtained. The heating component is used to heat the water in the drum during the operation. The drying component is activated when the sum of the power values ​​meets a preset power threshold.

[0061] Specifically, if the sum of the first rated power and the second rated power reaches a set power threshold, the heating element is turned off and the drying element is turned on. If the sum of the first rated power and the second rated power does not reach the set power threshold, the drying element is turned on while the heating element continues to operate.

[0062] The above methods can effectively avoid safety hazards caused by power overload and achieve energy balance.

[0063] In one example, the drying unit is activated every third set interval. For example, every 3 minutes. Each time the drying unit is activated, a first temperature value is acquired. After activating the unit, the first temperature value is acquired again, and then the drying unit is turned off. If the acquired first temperature value meets the temperature requirements, the defoaming process begins; otherwise, the process waits for the next activation of the drying unit.

[0064] In another example, considering that the state of foam inside the washing machine changes in real time, to promptly remove excess foam, the drying unit is activated at a third set interval. For example, every 3 minutes. After each activation, the first temperature value is acquired at a second set interval (e.g., 5 seconds), for a total of K times (e.g., 6 times). If any of the acquired first temperature values ​​meets the temperature requirement, the defoaming process is immediately initiated and the drying unit is shut off. If the requirement is not met after 6 acquisitions, the drying unit automatically shuts off at the end of 0.5 minutes, awaiting the next activation.

[0065] For example, the duration of the third set time is positively correlated with the volume of the cylinder.

[0066] Step S302: Obtain the first temperature value, which is the temperature of the hot air output by the drying component after entering the cylinder.

[0067] For example, the first temperature value can be the temperature value of the hot air at a specified location inside the cylinder, such as the temperature value at a location on the cylinder no more than a specified distance (50mm) from the inlet of the exhaust duct. The specific implementation of obtaining the first temperature value in this step can be: obtaining the first temperature value collected by the sensor at that specified location.

[0068] Optionally, the first temperature value can also be the temperature value of the hot air at the inlet of the exhaust duct. The specific implementation method for obtaining the first temperature value in this step can be: by setting... Figure 2 The sensor at point B collects the first temperature value of the hot air at point B.

[0069] In step S303, in response to the first temperature value meeting the temperature condition, the washing machine is controlled to enter the defoaming process.

[0070] In this embodiment, the aforementioned temperature condition is used to determine whether there is excessive foam inside the cylinder. Since foam absorbs heat from the hot air and hinders its flow, causing a significant drop in the first temperature value, the foam accumulation can be indirectly detected by monitoring changes in the first temperature value.

[0071] In one example, the specific implementation of responding to a first temperature value meeting a temperature condition can be as follows: determine that the first temperature value has reached a preset temperature range. Specifically, a temperature range is preset in advance, and when the first temperature value acquired in real time falls within this preset temperature range, it is determined that the temperature condition is met, and the washing machine is controlled to enter the defoaming process. The specific method for presetting the temperature range will be explained in detail later and will not be elaborated here.

[0072] In another example, the specific implementation of responding to the first temperature value satisfying the temperature condition can be: determining the temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value, reaching a preset difference threshold, wherein the second temperature value is the temperature of the hot air output by the drying component before passing through the cylinder.

[0073] The first temperature value is the temperature of the hot air output from the drying unit after entering the drum. Specifically, it can be the temperature of the hot air at the inlet of the exhaust duct (e.g., Figure 2 The first temperature value is the temperature of the hot air output from the drying unit before it enters the drum. Specifically, it can be the temperature of the hot air at the outlet of the air supply duct (e.g., at point B). Figure 2 The temperature value at point A. In practical applications, temperature sensors can be installed at the outlet of the supply air drying duct and the inlet of the exhaust air drying duct to collect the second temperature value and the first temperature value.

[0074] During the washing machine's operation, if there is no foam inside the drum, the hot air does not come into contact with the foam, and the temperature drop of the hot air after passing through the drum is almost zero and can be ignored. If there is foam inside the drum, the airflow path of the hot air is blocked by the foam, and the temperature drop of the hot air after passing through the drum is related to the amount of foam; there is a positive correlation between the temperature drop and the amount of foam. That is, the more foam there is, the longer the contact time between the hot air and the foam, and the greater the temperature drop; the less foam there is, the shorter the contact time between the hot air and the foam, and the smaller the temperature drop. The temperature difference between a first temperature value and a second temperature value can characterize the temperature drop of the hot air after passing through the drum. Therefore, by pre-setting a difference threshold (the specific method for setting the difference threshold will be explained later, and will not be repeated here), the defoaming process is determined by whether the temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value reaches the preset difference threshold.

[0075] If the temperature difference is greater than or equal to the difference threshold, the first temperature value is determined to meet the temperature condition. At this point, the foam inside the washing machine reaches a high-foam state, and the washing machine needs to be controlled to enter the defoaming process. Optionally, to avoid misjudgment caused by instantaneous temperature fluctuations, it is further determined whether the continuous duration of the temperature difference being greater than or equal to the difference threshold reaches a set time threshold (e.g., 10 seconds). If the temperature difference is greater than or equal to the difference threshold and its continuous duration reaches the set time threshold, the washing machine is controlled to switch from the current workflow to the defoaming process. If the continuous duration of the temperature difference being greater than or equal to the difference threshold does not reach the set time threshold, the machine does not switch to the defoaming process and continues in the current workflow.

[0076] If the temperature difference is less than the difference threshold, it is determined that the first temperature value does not meet the temperature condition. In this case, the foam in the washing machine has not reached the high-foam state, and the washing machine continues to operate in the current workflow. The so-called high-foam state refers to a situation where there is too much foam in the drum, and the foam height has overflowed into the drying tunnel or filled the drum.

[0077] Once the first temperature value is determined to meet the temperature requirements, the controller immediately switches the washing machine from the currently executing workflow to the defoaming process.

[0078] The defoaming process includes the following steps: pausing the washing machine's operation, for example, stopping the motor. Performing a water filling and draining operation to eliminate foam in the drum. The water filling operation injects clean water into the drum to dilute the foam, while the draining operation removes the foam-containing wastewater from the drum. Water filling and draining can be performed simultaneously or alternately. Optionally, the drain pump can be activated simultaneously during the defoaming process to accelerate foam removal.

[0079] In one example, while in the defoaming process, it is determined whether the defoaming process termination condition is met. If the condition is met, the washing machine is controlled to switch from the defoaming process back to the workflow before entering the defoaming process.

[0080] In one example, the defoaming process ends when the washing machine has been in the defoaming process for a first set duration (e.g., 2 or 3 minutes).

[0081] In another example, the defoaming process ends when the first temperature value changes from meeting the temperature condition to not meeting the temperature condition during the defoaming process. This indicates that the foam inside the cylinder has been completely removed, and the end condition is met. In other words, if the first temperature value returns to normal before the first set time has elapsed (e.g., the temperature difference falls below the difference threshold, or the first temperature value rises above the preset temperature range), the defoaming process ends prematurely.

[0082] In this step, the process of switching between the original workflow and the defoaming process is carried out in a timely manner in order to achieve timely and effective foam removal.

[0083] In one example, the method further includes saving the operating parameters of the washing machine's workflow prior to entering the defoaming process. For example, saving the operating parameters of the original workflow when controlling the washing machine to switch from the current workflow to the defoaming process, or saving the operating parameters at regular intervals during the current workflow. After the washing machine switches back from the defoaming process to the previous workflow, the washing machine is controlled to continue operating based on the saved operating parameters.

[0084] For example, if switching during the washing cycle, the current water temperature, remaining washing time, and motor rotation mode are saved; if switching during the rinsing cycle, the current water level and number of rinses are saved.

[0085] By saving the operating parameters, even when switching from the original workflow to the defoaming workflow, the machine can continue working in the previous state after switching back from the defoaming workflow, quickly resuming the working state and helping to ensure the stability of the washing machine's operation.

[0086] In this embodiment, instead of relying on changes in water level and pressure for foam detection as in related technologies, the dryer assembly is used. The first temperature value of the hot air output from the dryer assembly upon entering the drum is obtained, and the presence of excessive foam inside the drum is accurately determined based on whether this first temperature value meets preset temperature conditions. This determines whether to initiate the defoaming process. This ensures that even in scenarios with small volumes as described in the background art, the defoaming process can still be reliably triggered, preventing foam from overflowing the drum and effectively guaranteeing the washing, rinsing, or dehydration effects.

[0087] The following is a detailed explanation of the temperature range obtained above: The aforementioned temperature range can be obtained as follows: Under a specified test environment, when the foam in the drum reaches a specified test height, the preset temperature range is then set to the lowest value below this fluctuation range (i.e., <35℃). Subsequently, when the first temperature value obtained in real time falls within the preset temperature range (e.g., below 35℃), it is determined that the temperature condition is met, and the washing machine is controlled to enter the defoaming process.

[0088] It should be noted that different drying modes correspond to different preset temperature ranges. For example, the low-temperature, standard, and high-temperature drying modes each correspond to their respective calibrated temperature fluctuation ranges and have their own set temperature ranges. During actual operation, the washing machine selects the corresponding preset temperature range based on the currently used drying mode.

[0089] The specific implementation method for obtaining the difference threshold is explained in detail below: The difference threshold is obtained through the following steps: Under specified test conditions, where all parameters of the washing machine are identical during washing, rinsing, or spin-drying, these parameters include, but are not limited to, hot air temperature, water volume, and washing speed. When there is no foam in the drum, a first test temperature is obtained at the inlet of the exhaust duct; for example, this can be collected by a sensor located at point B. When the foam in the drum reaches a specified test height (the specified test height can refer to the height when the drum is completely filled with foam), a second test temperature is obtained from the inlet of the exhaust duct; for example, this can be collected by a sensor located at point B. The difference threshold is determined based on the difference between the first and second test temperatures.

[0090] Since the temperature at point B is the same as the temperature at point A when there is no foam, the difference between the first test temperature when the cylinder has no foam and the second test temperature at the specified test height is the difference threshold.

[0091] Optionally, a set of first test temperature and second test temperature can be obtained, and the difference between the first test temperature and the second test temperature can be directly determined as the difference threshold.

[0092] Optionally, multiple sets of first and second test temperatures can be measured to obtain the difference between the first and second test temperatures for each set, and the average of the obtained differences can be determined as the final difference threshold.

[0093] In another example, the washing machine has multiple drying modes, each corresponding to a different drying temperature. Therefore, the difference threshold varies depending on the drying mode.

[0094] The difference threshold under any drying mode is obtained through the following steps: Under test conditions matching the drying mode, when there is no foam in the drum, obtain a first test temperature at the inlet of the exhaust duct. When the foam in the drum reaches a specified test height, obtain a second test temperature from the inlet of the exhaust duct. Based on the difference between the first and second test temperatures, determine the difference threshold under the drying mode. Except that the test conditions need to match the drying mode, the detailed steps for obtaining the difference threshold in this example are the same as in the example above, and will not be repeated here.

[0095] It should be noted that the test conditions matching any drying mode include the hot air supply temperature used in the test being the same as the hot air supply temperature required by that drying mode. For example, the drying modes include a high-temperature drying mode with a hot air supply temperature of 80-85℃, and a low-temperature drying mode with a hot air supply temperature of 40-45℃.

[0096] Accordingly, determining the temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value to reach a preset difference threshold includes: obtaining the drying mode of the washing machine; determining the difference threshold corresponding to the drying mode based on the mapping relationship between the drying mode and the difference threshold; different drying modes correspond to different drying temperatures. Determining that the temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value reaches the difference threshold.

[0097] In this embodiment of the application, the difference threshold obtained by the above method provides a strong basis for determining whether to enter the defoaming process for defoaming.

[0098] To illustrate the method provided in this application in more detail, the following will be combined with... Figure 4 The solution provided in this application will be described in more detail by way of specific embodiments.

[0099] In this embodiment, the current workflow is a heated washing process.

[0100] Please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a washing machine control method according to an exemplary embodiment. The process includes the following steps: Step S401, at the current time point, obtain the inlet of the exhaust drying duct ( Figure 2 The first temperature value T1 at point B in the diagram is used to obtain the second temperature value T2 at the outlet of the air-blowing duct; the difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value is used to determine the temperature difference value T2-T1.

[0101] Specifically, every certain period of time, such as three minutes, it is determined whether the sum of the rated power of the drying component and the rated power of the heating component used in the washing process reaches the set power threshold. If yes, the heating component is turned off and the drying component is turned on. If no, the drying component is turned on to execute the above step S401.

[0102] Step S402: Obtain the difference threshold under the current drying mode from the preset mapping relationship between drying mode and difference threshold.

[0103] The specific implementation of step S402 is detailed in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0104] Step S403: Determine whether the temperature difference T2-T1 at the current time point is greater than or equal to the difference threshold under the current drying mode.

[0105] If the result of step S403 is yes, then step S404 is executed. If the result of step S403 is no, and it is determined that the foam in the cylinder has not reached a high foam state, then step S401 is executed again at the next time point.

[0106] Step S404: Determine that the foam inside the drum has reached a high foam state, output an alarm signal to the outside, and control the washing machine to switch from the current working process to the defoaming process.

[0107] Step S405: Determine whether the conditions for ending the defoaming process are met.

[0108] Specifically, if yes, then proceed to step S406; otherwise, continue the defoaming process and return to step S405.

[0109] Step S406: Control the washing machine to switch from the defoaming process back to the washing mode.

[0110] Then continue to return to step S401 above until the washing is complete.

[0111] In this embodiment, by means of the drying component, the temperature difference is compared with the difference threshold to determine whether to enter the defoaming process, thereby achieving the purpose of timely defoaming when excessive foam is detected, and effectively ensuring the washing effect.

[0112] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating a washing machine control device according to an exemplary embodiment of this application. The washing machine includes: a drying assembly and a drum, the drum for containing laundry items, and the drying assembly for drying the laundry items. Figure 5 As shown, the device 500 includes: The first control module 501 is used to turn on the drying component when the washing machine is in operation. The acquisition module 502 is used to acquire a first temperature value, which is the temperature of the hot air output by the drying component after entering the cylinder; The second control module 503 is used to control the washing machine to enter the defoaming process in response to the first temperature value meeting the temperature condition.

[0113] In some example implementations, when performing the step of responding to the first temperature value satisfying the temperature condition, the second control module 503 is further configured to: Determine if the first temperature value reaches the preset temperature range; Alternatively, the temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value can be determined to reach a preset difference threshold; the second temperature value is the temperature of the hot air output by the drying component before it passes through the drum.

[0114] In some example implementations, when the second control module 503 executes the step of controlling the washing machine to enter the defoaming process in response to the first temperature value meeting the temperature condition, it is further configured to: In response to the first temperature value meeting the temperature condition, the washing machine is controlled to switch from the working process to the defoaming process; the working process includes the washing process, rinsing process or spin-drying process.

[0115] In some example implementations, when the second control module 503 performs the step of determining the temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value to reach a preset difference threshold, it is further configured to: Get the washing machine's drying mode; Based on the mapping relationship between drying mode and difference threshold, the difference threshold corresponding to the drying mode is determined; different drying modes correspond to different drying temperatures. The temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value is determined to reach a difference threshold.

[0116] In some example implementations, the difference threshold is obtained through the following steps: Under specified test conditions, without foam in the cylinder, the first test temperature of the hot air at the inlet of the exhaust duct is obtained; the inlet of the exhaust duct is the location where the hot air enters the exhaust duct after leaving the cylinder. When the foam in the cylinder reaches the specified test height, the second test temperature of the hot air at the inlet of the exhaust drying duct is obtained; The difference threshold is determined based on the difference between the first test temperature and the second test temperature.

[0117] In the embodiments of this application, the difference threshold is obtained in the above manner, which provides a strong basis for determining whether the temperature difference reaches the difference threshold and whether to enter the defoaming process.

[0118] In some example implementations, the first temperature value is obtained through the following steps: Obtain the first temperature value of the hot air at the inlet of the exhaust duct; the inlet of the exhaust duct is the inlet position of the exhaust duct after the hot air leaves the cylinder; The second temperature value is obtained through the following steps: Obtain the second temperature value of the hot air at the outlet of the air supply duct; the outlet of the air supply duct is the outlet position of the air supply duct that sends the hot air into the cylinder.

[0119] In some example implementations, after controlling the washing machine to enter the defoaming process, the second control module 503 is further configured to: In response to determining that the conditions for ending the defoaming process are met, the washing machine is controlled to switch from the defoaming process back to the workflow before entering the defoaming process.

[0120] In some example implementations, determining that the defoaming process termination conditions are met includes: The washing machine enters the defoaming process continuously for a set duration.

[0121] In some example implementations, the device further includes: a storage module: The save module is used to save the working parameters of the washing machine before it enters the defoaming process; The second control module 503 is further used to: control the washing machine to continue working based on the saved working parameters after the washing machine switches back from the defoaming process to the previous working process.

[0122] In some example implementations, the defoaming process includes the following steps: Pause the washing machine's workflow; Perform water injection and drainage operations to eliminate foam inside the cylinder.

[0123] In some example implementations, when performing the step of acquiring the first temperature value, the acquisition module 502 is further configured to: When the interval between the last acquisition of the first temperature value and the last acquisition of the first temperature value reaches the second set time, the first temperature value is acquired.

[0124] In some example implementations, the first control module 501, before activating the drying assembly, is further configured to: When the washing machine is in operation, the sum of the first rated power of the drying component and the second rated power of the heating component is obtained. The heating component is used to heat the water in the drum during the operation. The drying unit is turned on when the power is within the preset power threshold.

[0125] In some example implementations, the drying assembly is activated under conditions of power and a preset power threshold, including: If the sum of the first rated power and the second rated power reaches the set power threshold, then the heating component is turned off and the drying component is turned on. Alternatively, if the sum of the first rated power and the second rated power does not reach the set power threshold, the drying component will be turned on while the heating component continues to operate.

[0126] The specific implementation process of the functions and roles of each module in the above device can be found in the implementation process of the corresponding steps in the above method, and will not be repeated here.

[0127] For the device embodiments, since they basically correspond to the method embodiments, the relevant parts can be referred to in the description of the method embodiments. The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The modules described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and the components shown as modules may or may not be physical modules, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network modules. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this application according to actual needs. Those skilled in the art can understand and implement this without creative effort.

[0128] This application also proposes a washing machine, combined with... Figure 1 As shown, the washing machine includes: A tub for holding items to be washed; A drying assembly for drying the washed items; The controller is used to perform the method described in any of the above embodiments to control the operating state of the washing machine.

[0129] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment, which is described below in conjunction with... Figure 6 The electronic devices described in some embodiments of this application will be explained.

[0130] Reference Figure 6 The electronic device 600 may include one or more of the following components: processing component 602, memory 604, power supply component 605, multimedia component 608, audio component 610, input / output (I / O) interface 612, sensor component 615, and communication component 618.

[0131] Processing component 602 typically controls the overall operation of electronic device 600, such as operations associated with display, telephone calls, data communication, camera operation, and recording operations. Processing component 602 may include one or more processors to execute instructions. Furthermore, processing component 602 may include one or more modules to facilitate interaction between processing component 602 and other components. For example, processing component 602 may include a multimedia module to facilitate interaction between multimedia component 608 and processing component 602. As another example, processing component 602 may read executable instructions from memory to implement relevant functions of the electronic device.

[0132] Memory 604 is configured to store various types of data to support the operation of electronic device 600. Examples of such data include instructions for any application or method operating on electronic device 600, contact data, phonebook data, messages, pictures, videos, etc. Memory 604 can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage device or a combination thereof, such as static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic storage, flash memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0133] Power supply component 605 provides power to various components of electronic device 600. Power supply component 605 may include a power management system, one or more power supplies, and other components associated with generating, managing, and distributing power to electronic device 600.

[0134] Multimedia component 608 includes a display screen that provides an output interface between the electronic device 600 and the user. In some embodiments, multimedia component 608 includes a front-facing camera and / or a rear-facing camera. When the electronic device 600 is in an operating mode, such as a shooting mode or a video mode, the front-facing camera and / or the rear-facing camera can receive external multimedia data. Each front-facing camera and rear-facing camera can be a fixed optical lens system or have focal length and optical zoom capabilities.

[0135] Audio component 610 is configured to output and / or input audio signals. For example, audio component 610 includes a microphone (MIC) configured to receive external audio signals when electronic device 600 is in an operating mode, such as call mode, recording mode, and voice recognition mode. The received audio signals may be further stored in memory 604 or transmitted via communication component 618. In some embodiments, audio component 610 also includes a speaker for outputting audio signals.

[0136] I / O interface 612 provides an interface between processing component 602 and peripheral interface modules, such as keyboards, click wheels, buttons, etc. These buttons may include, but are not limited to, home buttons, volume buttons, start buttons, and lock buttons.

[0137] Sensor assembly 615 includes one or more sensors for providing state assessments of various aspects of electronic device 600. For example, sensor assembly 615 may detect the on / off state of electronic device 600, the relative positioning of components such as the display and keypad of electronic device 600, changes in position of electronic device 600 or a component of electronic device 600, the presence or absence of user contact with electronic device 600, orientation or acceleration / deceleration of electronic device 600, and temperature changes of electronic device 600. Sensor assembly 615 may include a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact. Sensor assembly 615 may also include a light sensor, such as a CMOS or CCD image sensor, for use in imaging applications. In some embodiments, sensor assembly 615 may also include an accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, pressure sensor, or temperature sensor.

[0138] Communication component 618 is configured to facilitate wired or wireless communication between electronic device 600 and other devices. Electronic device 600 can access wireless networks based on communication standards, such as Wi-Fi, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, or combinations thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 618 receives broadcast signals or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management system via a broadcast channel. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 618 also includes a near-field communication (NFC) module to facilitate short-range communication. For example, the NFC module may be implemented based on radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, Infrared Data Association (IrDA) technology, ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, Bluetooth (BT) technology, and other technologies.

[0139] In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic device 600 may be implemented by one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, or other electronic components.

[0140] This application also proposes a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0141] This application also proposes a computer program product configured to perform the methods described in any of the above embodiments.

[0142] This application also proposes a chip system including a processing unit and an interface circuit. The processing unit obtains program instructions through the interface circuit, and the program instructions are executed by the processing unit. The processing unit is used to execute the method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0143] Other embodiments of the present application will readily conceive of by considering the specification and practicing the disclosure herein. The embodiments of this application are intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this application that follow the general principles of the embodiments of this application and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The specification and embodiments are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of the embodiments of this application are indicated by the claims.

[0144] It should be understood that the embodiments of this application are not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from their scope. The scope of the embodiments of this application is limited only by the appended claims.

[0145] The user information (including but not limited to user device information, user personal information, etc.) and data (including but not limited to data used for analysis, data stored, data displayed, etc.) involved in the embodiments of this application are all information and data authorized by the user or fully authorized by all parties. Furthermore, the collection, use and processing of related data must comply with the relevant laws, regulations and standards of the relevant countries and regions, and corresponding operation entry points are provided for users to choose to authorize or refuse.

[0146] Obviously, the above embodiments are merely examples for clear illustration and are not intended to limit the embodiments. Those skilled in the art can make other variations or modifications based on the above description. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively list all embodiments here. However, obvious variations or modifications derived therefrom are still within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A washing machine control method, characterized in that, The washing machine includes a drying assembly and a drum, the drum being used to hold washed items, and the drying assembly being used to dry the washed items; The method includes: When the washing machine is in operation, turn on the drying unit; Obtain a first temperature value, which is the temperature of the hot air output by the drying component after entering the cylinder; In response to the first temperature value meeting the temperature condition, the washing machine is controlled to enter the defoaming process.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The response to the first temperature value satisfying the temperature condition includes: Determine if the first temperature value reaches the preset temperature range; Alternatively, the temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value is determined to reach a preset difference threshold; the second temperature value is the temperature of the hot air output by the drying component before it passes through the cylinder.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of controlling the washing machine to enter the defoaming process in response to the first temperature value meeting the temperature condition includes: In response to the first temperature value meeting the temperature condition, the washing machine is controlled to switch from the working process to the defoaming process; the working process includes a washing process, a rinsing process, or a spin-drying process.

4. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, Determining the temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value to reach a preset difference threshold includes: Obtain the drying mode of the washing machine; Based on the mapping relationship between drying mode and difference threshold, the difference threshold corresponding to the drying mode is determined; different drying modes correspond to different drying temperatures. The temperature difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value is determined to reach the difference threshold.

5. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The difference threshold is obtained through the following steps: Under specified test conditions, when there is no foam in the cylinder, the first test temperature of the hot air at the inlet of the exhaust duct is obtained; the inlet of the exhaust duct is the inlet position of the exhaust duct into which the hot air enters after leaving the cylinder. When the foam in the cylinder reaches a specified test height, the second test temperature of the hot air at the inlet of the exhaust duct is obtained; The difference threshold is determined based on the difference between the first test temperature and the second test temperature.

6. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first temperature value is obtained through the following steps: Obtain the first temperature value of the hot air at the inlet of the exhaust drying duct; the inlet of the exhaust drying duct is the inlet position of the exhaust drying duct that the hot air enters after leaving the cylinder; The second temperature value is obtained through the following steps: Obtain the second temperature value of the hot air at the outlet of the air supply duct; the outlet of the air supply duct is the outlet position of the air supply duct that sends the hot air into the cylinder.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, After controlling the washing machine to enter the defoaming process, the method further includes: In response to determining that the conditions for ending the defoaming process are met, the washing machine is controlled to switch from the defoaming process back to the workflow before entering the defoaming process.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The response to determining that the defoaming process termination condition is met includes: The washing machine continuously enters the defoaming process for a first set duration.

9. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Save the working parameters of the washing machine before it enters the defoaming process; After the washing machine switches back from the defoaming process to the previous workflow, the washing machine is controlled to continue operating based on the saved operating parameters.

10. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The defoaming process includes the following steps: Pause the washing machine's workflow; Perform water injection and drainage operations to eliminate foam inside the cylinder.

11. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process of obtaining the first temperature value includes: When the interval between the last acquisition of the first temperature value and the last acquisition of the first temperature value reaches the second set time, the first temperature value is acquired.

12. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Before activating the drying assembly, the method further includes: When the washing machine is in operation, the sum of the first rated power of the drying component and the second rated power of the heating component of the washing machine is obtained, wherein the heating component is used to heat the water in the drum during the operation. The drying assembly is turned on when the power is specified and the preset power threshold is met.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The step of activating the drying assembly under the condition that the power is at a preset power threshold includes: If the sum of the first rated power and the second rated power reaches the set power threshold, then the heating component is turned off and the drying component is turned on. Alternatively, if the sum of the first rated power and the second rated power does not reach the set power threshold, the drying component is turned on while the heating component continues to operate.

14. A washing machine control device, characterized in that, The washing machine includes: a drying assembly and a drum, the drum being used to hold washed items, and the drying assembly being used to dry the washed items; the device includes: The first control module is used to activate the drying assembly when the washing machine is in operation. The acquisition module is used to acquire a first temperature value, which is the temperature of the hot air output by the drying component after entering the cylinder; The second control module is used to control the washing machine to enter the defoaming process in response to the first temperature value meeting the temperature condition.

15. A washing machine, characterized in that, The washing machine includes: A tub for holding items to be washed; A drying assembly for drying the washed items; A controller is configured to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 13 to control the operating state of the washing machine.

16. A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, characterized in that, When the program is executed by the processor, it implements the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 13.

17. A computer program product comprising a computer program / instructions, characterized in that, When the computer program / instructions are executed by the processor, they implement the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 13.

18. An electronic device, characterized in that, The method includes a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the processor, when executing the computer program, implements the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13.

Images