Washing machine appliance and method of operation

Abstract

A washing machine appliance includes a wash tub and a wash basket mounted therewithin. The appliance includes a motor assembly coupled to the wash basket to rotate the wash basket. The appliance includes a camera configured by a controller to capture images of articles within the wash basket. The appliance includes the controller operably coupled to the motor assembly and the camera. The controller is configured to rotate the wash basket. The controller is configured to analyze the images to determine that the articles are rotated less than at least the set distance. The controller is configured to generate an output signal configured to alert a user based on the wash basket failing to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time.

Description

FIELD

[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to washing machine appliances, or more specifically, to systems and methods for assessing agitation effectiveness in a washing machine appliance.BACKGROUND

[0002] Washing machine appliances generally include a cabinet which receives a wash tub for containing water or wash fluid (e.g., water and detergent, bleach, or other wash additives). The wash tub may be suspended within the cabinet by a suspension system to allow some movement relative to the cabinet during operation. A wash basket is rotatably mounted within the wash tub and defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for washing. A drive assembly is coupled to the wash tub and is configured to selectively rotate the wash basket within the wash tub.

[0003] Washing machine appliances are typically equipped to operate in one or more modes or cycles, such as wash, rinse, and spin cycles. For example, during a wash or rinse cycle, the wash fluid is directed into the wash tub in order to wash and / or rinse articles within the wash chamber. In addition, the wash basket and / or an agitation element can rotate to agitate or impart motion to articles within the wash chamber.

[0004] Washing machine appliances may attempt to agitate articles within the wash basket even with a wash basket that is overloaded with articles. Additionally, washing machine appliances may attempt to agitate items within the wash basket; however, operational malfunctions can impede the washing machine from achieving an intended level of agitation or prevent agitation entirely. For example, the agitation element may malfunction or the wash basket may be overloaded with articles. Further, a malfunctioning agitator or an overloaded wash basket may lead to poor cleaning performance of the articles, an uneven distribution of wash fluids, tangled or even damages articles, an extended wash cycle operation, and the like.

[0005] As such, a system and method for operating a washing machine appliance that can detect and assess agitation effectiveness would be desirable. Furthermore, a system and method for determining fault or failure of an agitation element would be advantageous.BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0006] Advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be apparent from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0007] An aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a washing machine appliance includes a wash tub and a wash basket mounted therewithin. The appliance includes a motor assembly coupled to the wash basket to rotate the wash basket. The appliance includes a camera configured by a controller to capture images of articles within the wash basket. The appliance includes the controller operably coupled to the motor assembly and the camera. The controller is configured to rotate the wash basket. The controller is configured to analyze the images to determine that the articles are rotated less than at least the set distance. The controller is configured to generate an output signal configured to alert a user based on the wash basket failing to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a method of operating a washing machine appliance. The method includes rotating a wash basket a rotated distance. The method includes obtaining a plurality of images. The method includes analyzing the plurality of images to determine that articles within the wash basket are rotated less than a set distance within a period of time based on a travel distance of the articles among the captured images. The method includes generating an output signal configured to alert a user based on the wash basket failing to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time.

[0009] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

[0011] FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a washing machine appliance according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter with a door of the example washing machine appliance shown in a closed position.

[0012] FIG. 2 provides a perspective view of the example washing machine appliance of FIG. 1 with the door of the example washing machine appliance shown in an open position.

[0013] FIG. 3 provides a side cross-sectional view of the example washing machine appliance of FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates a wash basket containing articles before rotating a set distance in a first direction.

[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates the wash basket containing articles after rotating the set distance in the first direction.

[0016] FIG. 6 provides a flow diagram of an example process for implementing an agitation detection method in a washing machine appliance according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0017] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0019] As used herein, the terms “includes” and “including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, is applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about,”“generally,”“approximately,” and “substantially,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. For example, the approximating language may refer to being within a 10 percent margin.

[0020] As used herein, the terms “first,”“second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. Terms such as “inner” and “outer” refer to relative directions with respect to the interior and exterior of the washing machine appliance. For example, “inner” or “inward” refers to the direction towards the interior of the washing machine appliance. Terms such as “left,”“right,”“front,”“back,”“top,” or “bottom” are used with reference to the perspective of the washing machine appliance as illustrated in FIG. 1. For example, a user faces a front of the washing machine appliance to place articles through a top of the washing machine appliance.

[0021] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a washing machine appliance 100 in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. It should be appreciated that, although the washing machine appliance 100 illustrated herein may generally correspond to any suitable washing machine appliance such as a top-loader or front-loader washing machine appliance.

[0022] With reference to FIGS. 1 through 3, the transverse direction, denoted by the arrow labeled “T,” corresponds to the axis along which terms such as “front” and “back” are oriented. The vertical direction, indicated by the arrow labeled “V,” aligns with the axis associated with terms such as “top” and “bottom.” The lateral direction, represented by the arrow labeled “L,” defines the axis along which terms such as “left” and “right” are referenced. These directional conventions provide a standardized framework for the spatial orientation of the washing machine appliance 100 described herein and among FIGS. 1 through 5.

[0023] It should be appreciated that where a value is at a threshold, one skilled in the art may determine whether an action at the threshold may correspond to actions below the threshold or above the threshold. For instance, an action “below a threshold” may include values “at or below a threshold”. In another instance, an action “above a threshold” may include values “at or above a threshold”. One skilled in the art may alter the corresponding action of a value at or equal to a threshold without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0024] Embodiments of a washing machine appliance, a controller for a washing machine appliance, and a method for operating a washing machine appliance are provided. Embodiments provided herein allow for detection of presence of fluid (e.g., water or water-based solution) in a washer tub. Methods provided herein allow for determination of the presence of fluid within or outside of a wash cycle without requiring utilization of a fluid level sensor (e.g., a pressure sensor or switch, a load sensor or switch, a moisture sensor or switch, etc.). Embodiments provided herein may allow for detection of fluid presence in the wash tub while utilizing a fluid sensor, allowing for failure detection of a fluid level sensor or component, such as a drain pump assembly. Embodiments provided herein also allow for sensor-less flood protection or fluid detection.

[0025] FIGS. 1 through 5 illustrate an example embodiment of a vertical axis washing machine appliance 100. Specifically, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate perspective views of washing machine appliance 100 in a closed and an open position, respectively. FIG. 3 provides a side cross-sectional view of washing machine appliance 100. Washing machine appliance 100 generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is generally defined. FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate a top view of a wash basket 114 containing articles 200.

[0026] Washing machine appliance 100 has a cabinet 102 that extends between a top portion 104 and a bottom portion 106 along the vertical direction V, between a first side (left) and a second side (right) along the lateral direction L, and between a front and a rear along the transverse direction T. As best shown in FIG. 3, a wash tub 108 is positioned within cabinet 102, defines a wash chamber 110, and is generally configured for retaining wash fluids during an operating cycle. Washing machine appliance 100 further includes a primary dispenser 112 (FIG. 2) for dispensing wash fluid into wash tub 108. The term “wash fluid” refers to a liquid used for washing and / or rinsing articles during an operating cycle and may include any combination of water, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, and other wash additives or treatments.

[0027] In addition, washing machine appliance 100 includes the wash basket 114 that is positioned within wash tub 108 and generally defines an opening 116 for receipt of articles for washing. More specifically, wash basket 114 is rotatably mounted within wash tub 108 such that it is rotatable about an axis of rotation A. According to the illustrated embodiment, the axis of rotation A is substantially parallel to the vertical direction V. While described in the context of a specific embodiment of vertical axis washing machine appliance 100, it should be appreciated that vertical axis washing machine appliance 100 is provided by way of example only. It will be understood that aspects of the present subject matter may be used in any other suitable washing machine appliance, such as a horizontal axis washing machine appliance. Indeed, modifications and variations may be made to washing machine appliance 100, including different configurations, different appearances, and / or different features while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0028] As illustrated, cabinet 102 of washing machine appliance 100 has a top panel 118. Top panel 118 defines an opening (FIG. 2) that coincides with opening 116 of wash basket 114 to permit a user access to wash basket 114. Washing machine appliance 100 further includes a door 120 which is rotatably mounted to top panel 118 to permit selective access to opening 116. In particular, door 120 selectively rotates between the closed position (as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3) and the open position (as shown in FIG. 2). In the closed position, door 120 inhibits access to wash basket 114. Conversely, in the open position, a user can access wash basket 114. A window 122 in door 120 permits viewing of wash basket 114 when door 120 is in the closed position, e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance 100. Door 120 also includes a handle 124 that, e.g., a user may pull and / or lift when opening and closing door 120. Further, although door 120 is illustrated as mounted to top panel 118, door 120 may alternatively be mounted to cabinet 102 or any other suitable support.

[0029] As best shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, wash basket 114 further defines a plurality of perforations 126 to facilitate fluid communication between an interior of wash basket 114 and wash tub 108. In this regard, wash basket 114 is spaced apart from wash tub 108 to define a space for wash fluid to escape wash chamber 110. During a spin cycle, wash fluid within articles of clothing and within wash chamber 110 is urged through perforations 126 wherein it may collect in a sump 128 defined by wash tub 108. Washing machine appliance 100 further includes a pump assembly 130 (FIG. 3) that is located beneath wash tub 108 and wash basket 114 for gravity assisted flow when draining wash tub 108.

[0030] An impeller or agitation element 132 (FIG. 3), such as a vane agitator, impeller, auger, oscillatory basket mechanism, or some combination thereof is disposed in wash basket 114 to impart an oscillatory motion to articles and liquid in wash basket 114. More specifically, agitation element 132 extends into wash basket 114 and assists agitation of articles disposed within wash basket 114 during operation of washing machine appliance 100, e.g., to facilitate improved cleaning. In different embodiments, agitation element 132 includes a single action element (i.e., oscillatory only), a double action element (oscillatory movement at one end, single direction rotation at the other end) or a triple action element (oscillatory movement plus single direction rotation at one end, single direction rotation at the other end). As illustrated in FIG. 3, agitation element 132 and wash basket 114 are oriented to rotate about axis of rotation A (which is substantially parallel to vertical direction V).

[0031] As best illustrated in FIG. 3, washing machine appliance 100 includes a drive assembly or motor assembly 138 in mechanical communication with wash basket 114 to selectively rotate wash basket 114 (e.g., during an agitation or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance 100). In addition, motor assembly 138 may also be in mechanical communication with agitation element 132. In this manner, motor assembly 138 may be configured for selectively rotating or oscillating wash basket 114 and / or agitation element 132 during various operating cycles of washing machine appliance 100.

[0032] More specifically, motor assembly 138 may generally include one or more of a drive motor 140 and a transmission assembly 142, e.g., such as a clutch assembly, for engaging and disengaging wash basket 114 and / or agitation element 132. According to the illustrated embodiment, drive motor 140 is a brushless DC electric motor, e.g., a pancake motor. However, according to alternative embodiments, drive motor 140 may be any other suitable type or configuration of motor. For example, drive motor 140 may be an AC motor, an induction motor, a permanent magnet synchronous motor, or any other suitable type of motor. In addition, motor assembly 138 may include any other suitable number, types, and configurations of support bearings or drive mechanisms.

[0033] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 3, washing machine appliance 100 may include one or more imaging devices 180 (e.g., cameras, LiDAR, radar, etc.) for detecting a travel distance D1 of the articles 200 within the wash basket 114. The camera 180 may be mounted to the cabinet 102, the door 120, or any other appropriate position at the washing machine appliance 100 for detecting the travel distance D1. The camera 180 may be configured to determine one or more discrete or transient movements of rotary components of the washing machine appliance 100. Certain embodiments may configure the camera 180 configured to determine whether the travel distance D1 has met or exceeded a set distance D2, such as described with regard to one or methods herein. The camera 180 may include various components for detecting the travel distance D1, such as a light 186.

[0034] Referring still to FIGS. 1 through 3, a control panel 150 with at least one input selector 152 (FIG. 1) extends from top panel 118. Control panel 150 and input selector 152 collectively form a user interface input for operator selection of machine cycles and features. A display 154 of control panel 150 indicates selected features, operation mode, a countdown timer, and / or other items of interest to appliance users regarding operation.

[0035] Operation of washing machine appliance 100 is controlled by a controller or processing device 156 that is operatively coupled to control panel 150 for user manipulation to select washing machine cycles and features. In response to user manipulation of control panel 150, controller 156 operates the various components of washing machine appliance 100 to execute selected machine cycles and features. The control panel 150 and / or controller 156 is configured in operative communication with the camera 180 and other sensors (e.g., sensor 170), such as to receive and communicate via output signals, fault signals, validation signals, power output or consumption signals, current signal, voltage signal, or other energy parameter signal, speed signals, or thresholds, such as further described herein. According to an example embodiment, controller 156 may include a memory and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with methods described herein. Alternatively, controller 156 may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and / or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software. Control panel 150 and other components of washing machine appliance 100 may be in communication with controller 156 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.

[0036] Referring still to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of an external communication system 190 will be described according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter. In general, external communication system 190 is configured for permitting interaction, data transfer, and other communications between washing machine appliance 100 and one or more external devices. For example, this communication may be used to provide and receive operating parameters, user instructions or notifications, performance characteristics, user preferences, or any other suitable information for improved performance of washing machine appliance 100. In addition, it should be appreciated that external communication system 190 may be used to transfer data or other information to improve performance of one or more external devices or appliances and / or improve user interaction with such devices.

[0037] For example, external communication system 190 permits controller 156 of washing machine appliance 100 to communicate with a separate device external to washing machine appliance 100, referred to generally herein as an external device 192. As described in more detail below, these communications may be facilitated using a wired or wireless connection, such as via a network 194. In general, external device 192 may be any suitable device separate from washing machine appliance 100 that is configured to provide and / or receive communications, information, data, or commands from a user. In this regard, external device 192 may be, for example, a personal phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop or personal computer, a wearable device, a smart home system, or another mobile or remote device.

[0038] In addition, a remote server 196 may be in communication with washing machine appliance 100 and / or external device 192 through network 194. In this regard, for example, remote server 196 may be a cloud-based server 196, and is thus located at a distant location, such as in a separate state, country, etc. According to an example embodiment, external device 192 may communicate with a remote server 196 over network 194, such as the Internet, to transmit / receive data or information, provide user inputs, receive user notifications or instructions, interact with or control washing machine appliance 100, etc. In addition, external device 192 and remote server 196 may communicate with washing machine appliance 100 to communicate similar information.

[0039] In general, communication between washing machine appliance 100, external device 192, remote server 196, and / or other user devices or appliances may be carried using any type of wired or wireless connection and using any suitable type of communication network, non-limiting examples of which are provided below. For example, external device 192 may be in direct or indirect communication with washing machine appliance 100 through any suitable wired or wireless communication connections or interfaces, such as network 194. For example, network 194 may include one or more of a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a personal area network (PAN), the Internet, a cellular network, any other suitable short-or long-range wireless networks, etc. In addition, communications may be transmitted using any suitable communications devices or protocols, such as via Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, Zigbee®, wireless radio, laser, infrared, Ethernet type devices and interfaces, etc. In addition, such communication may use a variety of communication protocols (e.g., TCP / IP, HTTP, SMTP, FTP), encodings or formats (e.g., HTML, XML), and / or protection schemes (e.g., VPN, secure HTTP, SSL).

[0040] External communication system 190 is described herein according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter. However, it should be appreciated that the example functions and configurations of external communication system 190 provided herein are used only as examples to facilitate description of aspects of the present subject matter. System configurations may vary, other communication devices may be used to communicate directly or indirectly with one or more associated appliances, other communication protocols and steps may be implemented, etc. These variations and modifications are contemplated as within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0041] During operation of washing machine appliance 100, laundry items are loaded into wash basket 114 through opening 116, and washing operation is initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors 152. Wash basket 114 is filled with water and detergent and / or other fluid additives via primary dispenser 112. One or more valves can be controlled by washing machine appliance 100 to provide for filling wash tub 108 and wash basket 114 to the appropriate level for the amount of articles being washed and / or rinsed. By way of example for a wash mode, once wash basket 114 is properly filled with fluid, the contents of wash basket 114 can be agitated (e.g., with agitation element 132 as discussed previously) for washing of laundry items in wash basket 114.

[0042] More specifically, referring again to FIG. 3, a water fill process will be described according to an example embodiment. As illustrated, washing machine appliance 100 includes a water supply conduit 160 that provides fluid communication between a water supply source 162 (such as a municipal water supply) and a discharge nozzle 164 for directing a flow of water into wash chamber 110. In addition, washing machine appliance 100 includes a water fill valve or water control valve 166 which is operably coupled to water supply conduit 160 and communicatively coupled to controller 156. In this manner, controller 156 may regulate the operation of water control valve 166 to regulate the amount of water within wash tub 108.

[0043] Although water supply conduit 160, water supply source 162, discharge nozzle 164, and water control valve 166 are all described and illustrated herein in the singular form, it should be appreciated that these terms may be used herein generally to describe a supply plumbing for providing hot and / or cold water into wash chamber 110. In this regard, water supply conduit 160 may include separate conduits for receiving hot and cold water, respectively. Similarly, water supply source 162 may include both hot-and cold-water supplies regulated by dedicated valves. In addition, washing machine appliance 100 may include one or more fluid level sensors 170 for detecting the amount of water and or clothes within wash tub 108. For example, fluid level sensor 170 may be operably coupled to a side of tub 108 for detecting the weight, load, or pressure of wash tub 108, which controller 156 may use to determine a volume of water in wash chamber 110 and a sub-washer load weight. The fluid level sensor 170 may form a sensor configured to determine one or more discrete values of pressure, load, weight, or moisture. Certain embodiments of the fluid level sensor 170 may form a switch configured to determine whether a threshold value has been met or exceeded.

[0044] After wash tub 108 is filled and the agitation phase of the wash cycle is completed, wash basket 114 can be drained, e.g., by drain pump assembly 130. Laundry articles can then be rinsed by again adding fluid to wash basket 114 depending on the specifics of the cleaning cycle selected by a user. The impeller or agitation element 132 may again provide agitation within wash basket 114. One or more spin cycles may also be used as part of the cleaning process. In particular, a spin cycle may be applied after the wash cycle and / or after the rinse cycle in order to wring wash fluid from the articles being washed. During a spin cycle, wash basket 114 is rotated at relatively high speeds to help wring fluid from the laundry articles through perforations 126. During or prior to the spin cycle, drain pump assembly 130 may operate to discharge wash fluid from wash tub 108, e.g., to an external drain. After articles disposed in wash basket 114 are cleaned and / or washed, the user can remove the articles from wash basket 114, e.g., by reaching into wash basket 114 through opening 116.

[0045] Referring now specifically to FIGS. 2 and 3, washing machine appliance 100 may further include the imaging device 180 that is generally positioned and configured for obtaining images within wash chamber 110 of washing machine appliance 100. Specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, the camera assembly 180 may be mounted to an underside of door 120 of washing machine appliance 100. In this manner, when door 120 is in the closed position, camera 180 may be positioned over wash chamber 110 and may be oriented for obtaining images within wash chamber 110. Specifically, camera 180 is mounted such that is faces toward a bottom side of wash tub 108. In this manner, camera 180 can take unobstructed images or video of an inside of wash chamber 110, e.g., including images of wash basket 114.

[0046] It should be appreciated that camera 180 may include any suitable number, type, size, and configuration of camera(s) for obtaining images of wash chamber 110. In general, cameras 180 may include a lens that is constructed from a clear hydrophobic material or which may otherwise be positioned behind a hydrophobic clear lens. So positioned, camera 180 may obtain one or more images or videos within wash chamber 110, as described in more detail below. It should be appreciated that other locations for mounting the camera 180 are possible, such as below or adjacent a discharge nozzle 164 of washing machine appliance 100.

[0047] Referring still to FIGS. 2 through 3, washing machine appliance 100 may further include the tub light 186 that is positioned within cabinet 102 or wash chamber 110 for selectively illuminating wash chamber 110 and the load of articles, or clothes, positioned therein. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, tub light 186 may be integrated with the camera 180 and may be positioned thereupon. According to still other embodiments, tub light 186 may be positioned at any other suitable location within cabinet 102. It should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, washing machine appliance 100 may include any other camera or system of imaging devices for obtaining images of the load of clothes. In addition, these cameras may be positioned at any suitable location within cabinet 102, may include any suitable lighting features, and may utilize any suitable photography or imaging technology.

[0048] Notably, controller 156 of washing machine appliance 100 (or any other suitable dedicated controller) may be communicatively coupled to camera 180, tub light 186, and other components of washing machine appliance 100. As explained in more detail below, controller 156 may be programmed or configured for analyzing the images obtained by camera 180, e.g., in order to assess agitation effectiveness, and may use this information to make informed decisions regarding the operation of washing machine appliance 100.

[0049] Now that the construction of washing machine appliance 100 and the configuration of controller 156 according to example embodiments have been presented, an example method 300 of operating a washing machine appliance will be described (hereinafter, “method 300”). Although the discussion below refers to the example method 300 of operating washing machine appliance 100, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the example method 300 is applicable to the operation of a variety of other washing machine appliances, such as horizontal axis washing machine appliances. In the example embodiments, the various method steps as disclosed herein may be performed by controller 156 or a separate, dedicated controller. Steps of the method 300 may be stored as instructions in one or more memory devices associated with the controller 156. Steps of the method 300 may be executed by embodiments of the motor assembly 138, camera 180, and drain pump assembly 130 such as provided herein. Accordingly, the controller 156 or other control device may be configured to perform operations such as provided in one or more steps of the method 300.

[0050] Referring now to FIG. 5, a flowchart outlining example steps of the method 300 of operating a washing machine appliance is provided. The method 300 includes at 302 receiving a wash cycle operation signal. Step 302 may include a user manually selecting at the input selectors 152, which wash cycle operation should be completed. The controller 156 may receive the wash cycle operation signal from the input selectors 152.

[0051] At 304, the method 300 includes initiating the wash cycle operation including capturing a plurality of images of the wash chamber (e.g., wash chamber 110) with the camera 180. Step 304 may also include instructing the motor assembly 138 to rotate the wash basket (e.g., wash basket 114) to at least a rotated distance D3. In this regard, for example, initiation of the wash cycle operation generally involves the identification of a variety of wash parameters based on the type of wash cycle desired. For example, the load size for a given wash may be associated with a predetermined targeted water level within the wash tub. In another example, the agitation profile, which may depend upon the wash cycle type (e.g., delicates, heavy-duty, etc.), may be associated with a predetermined intensity of movement targeted by the agitation element or impeller, such as, for example, the agitator ramp up speed or the length of time the agitator is activated. In still other examples, the temperature setting of the washing machine appliance may be associated with a given water temperature to be used with each particular setting. Accordingly, at step 304, a wash cycle operation may be initiated employing the predetermined parameters associated with the various settings for the particular cycle.

[0052] Continuing the example from above, at the beginning of the wash cycle operation, water control valve 166 may be regulated to supply wash fluid into wash tub 108 after the load of articles has been added to wash basket 114. Motor assembly 138 may be activated when the wash fluid reaches the desired fill level in order to agitate and clean the load of clothes within wash basket 114. More specifically, agitation may be achieved by selectively rotating wash basket 114 and / or agitation element 132, thereby generating rotation of the load of clothes within wash basket 114. As explained above, rotation is generally a measure of the movement of articles of clothing within wash basket 114 during a period of time. The period of time starts at an initial change of direction (e.g., clockwise) and resets (i.e., ends and starts again) at a subsequent change of direction (e.g., counterclockwise) of the articles 200 within the wash basket 114. Additionally, or alternatively, the period of time may start and reset based on respective initial change of direction and a subsequent change of direction of the wash basket 114 and / or agitation element 132. For example, the direction the controller 156 instructs the motor assembly 138 to rotate the wash basket 114 and / or the agitation element 132 may be stored in memory of the controller 156. According to an exemplary embodiment, washing machine appliances that include central agitation element, e.g., such as washing machine appliance 100, facilitate a rotational process where the clothes at the top of wash basket 114 generally move arcuately around the center of the wash basket 114 and / or agitation element 132.

[0053] Step 304 also generally includes obtaining a series of image frames using a camera. In this regard, for example, camera 180 may obtain one or more images, a series of frames, a video, or any other suitable visual representation of the load of articles. As will be explained in more detail below, this series of image frames may be used to monitor the motion or rotation (e.g., travel distance D1) of the load of articles within wash basket 114.

[0054] According to the illustrated embodiment, wash basket 114 includes bottom wall 400 and a cylindrical outer wall 402 which collectively define at least a portion of wash chamber 110. As illustrated, camera 180 is generally mounted above wash basket 114 and has a field of view directed toward bottom wall 400 of wash basket 114. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, camera assembly 180 is positioned directly over a center 404 a bottom wall 400 of wash basket 114. According to such an embodiment, the field of view of camera assembly 180 may be directed directly down along the vertical direction V toward center 404 of bottom wall 400.

[0055] Step 306 includes calculating the travel distance D1 of the articles. Step 306 may generally include identifying a tracking point on one article from the load of articles using a first image frame from the series of image frames. In this regard, as a starting point for monitoring the rotation of the load of articles within a wash basket, the first image frame of the series of image frames may be used to identify a specific location or feature on a specific garment within the load of clothes for tracking purposes. For example, referring briefly to FIGS. 4 and 5, a first image frame 410 of the series of images is provided and shows a load of articles 200 illustrated within a wash basket 114 according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter. A tracking point 416 may be identified using any suitable image processing technique or analysis, examples of which may be described below.

[0056] Referring again to FIGS. 4 through 6, step 306 may generally include generating the travel distance D1 of the tracking point over the series of image frames using an optical flow technique. In this regard, by analyzing the series of image frames, the tracking point 416 on load of articles 200 may be identified in each frame (e.g., a first image frame 410 and a subsequent image frame 420), and the path of travel of that specific point may be determined. A schematic representation of the motion path of tracking point 416 through a series of image frames is provided within a horizontal plane in FIG. 5 and identified generally by D1. In this regard, travel distance D1 generally begins at one location of wash basket 114 and moves arcuately along the center of the basket 114. It should be appreciated that travel distance D1 illustrated in FIG. 5 is overlaid on wash basket 114 only for purposes of describing aspects of the present subject matter. The travel distance D1 is only exemplary and may vary while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0057] As used herein, the terms “optical flow” and the like are generally intended to refer to any suitable process for analyzing a series of image frames or processing a video for tracking a target object or point. These algorithms or techniques may be used to track the motion of object, surfaces, edges, corners, etc. in a two-dimensional or three-dimensional space. This technique may be applied to a series of images or video frames that have a small time step between them and may include calculating a velocity for points within the images as well as an estimation of where points could be in the next frame. For example, an optical flow algorithm may generally analyze or track the pixels of consecutive frames of a video file to track a specific point or object within the video. This optical flow algorithm may be implemented using camera 180 and controller 156 or may be implemented using a remote analysis device (e.g., located on remote server 196).

[0058] Various optical flow algorithms may be utilized according to exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter. In this regard, for example, suitable flow algorithms may include dense optical flow (e.g., which may estimate flow vectors for all pixels within a frame), sparse optical flow (e.g., which may estimate flow vectors for pixels containing objects of interest, edges, corners, etc.), or variations therebetween. According to still other embodiments, optical flow techniques may include phase correlation, block-based methods, discrete optimization methods, or differential methods of estimating optical flow (e.g., based on partial derivatives of the image signal and / or the sought flow field and higher-order partial derivatives). For example, differential methods may include a Lucas-Kanade method, a Horn-Schunck method, a Buxton-Buxton method, a Black-Jepson method, and / or general variational methods (e.g., modifications or extension of the methods described herein).

[0059] In addition, or alternatively, various techniques for identifying tracking points within a region of interest may be used, such as Shi-Tomasi corner detection, Harris corner detection, Farneback optical flow, Lucas-Kanade techniques, or any other suitable techniques may be used. It should be appreciated that other known techniques of optical flow analysis are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter. Corner detection methods may be used to identify corners or edges for use as tracking points. In general, corner detections may include, but are not limited to Moravec corner detection algorithms, Harris and Stephens corner detection algorithms, Shi-Tomasi corner detection algorithms, Förstner corner detection algorithms, multi-scale Harris operators, level curve curvature approaches, Laplacian of Gaussian methods, Wang and Brady corner detection algorithms, SUSAN (smallest uni-value segment assimilating nucleus) methods, Trajkovic and Hedley corner detector, AST-based (accelerated segment test) feature detectors, or any other suitable corner detection method known to one having ordinary skill in the art, or combinations therebetween.

[0060] One exemplary implementation of the optical flow technique includes the use of a frame-by-frame analysis of a specific pixel window that includes the target tracking point. In this regard, for example, a target tracking point may be identified in the first frame along with a pixel window surrounding the tracking point (e.g., with the tracking point as its center). The size of the pixel window may vary depending on the projected movement of the tracking point, but for purposes of explanation the size of the pixel window may be a 20×20 pixel window (i.e., 400 total pixels). For the second frame, the optical flow process may analyze the original pixel window from the first frame to again identify the tracking point, which has now moved from the center of the pixel window. A new pixel window with the new tracking point may be identified and the process may proceed through the series of image frames to track the coordinates or location of the tracking point over time.

[0061] As described above, a single tracking point 414 is used to generate a single travel distance D1 for assessing agitation effectiveness. However, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, multiple travel distances D1 may be used to obtain a more accurate assessment of the agitation effectiveness. For example, method 300 may include identifying a plurality of tracking points at the start of the period of time from the load of articles from within the first image frame 410 and may simultaneously track these tracking points 414 to generate multiple travel distances D1 for each tracking point over the series of images. The method 300 may include selecting new tracking points when the period of time resets. The data associated with each of these travel distances may be averaged for an improved estimation of the agitation effectiveness of the load of articles 200. For example, according to example embodiments, method 300 may include simultaneously tracking between about 10 and about 200 tracking points, between about 20 and about 100 tracking points, or about 50 tracking points.

[0062] In addition, although the process of resetting tracking point 414 is described herein with reference to wash basket 114, it should be appreciated the process may vary for a wash basket that includes an agitator that generally facilitates cloth movement from the outside toward a center of the wash basket. Specifically, according to such an embodiment, the tracking point may be reset when falls inside a predetermined radial distance defined around the center of the wash basket. It should be appreciated that other methods of resetting one or more tracking points are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0063] The method may include a step 308. At 308, the controller 156 calculates a rotation distance D3 of the wash basket 114 and / or the agitation element 132. For example, as the wash basket 114 and / or the agitation element 132 rotates a rotation distance D3, forces act on the articles 200 (e.g., frictional forces) to lessen a magnitude of the travel distance D1 compared to the rotation distance D3. The small the load, the fewer forces act on the articles 200 to decrease the travel distance D1 relative to the rotation distance D3. The controller 156 may calculate the rotation distance D3 using a look-up table stored in memory or a suitable equation stored in memory based on the measured travel distance D1, load size, water volume, etc.

[0064] At 310, the method 300 includes comparing the travel distance D1 to a set distance D2. In this regard, the set distance D2 may correspond to a minimum desired magnitude of the travel distance D2 of the load of clothes for facilitating suitable agitation and cleaning action for a given operating cycle and parameters.

[0065] The set distance D2 may be programmed by the manufacturer, set by the user, and may be dependent on a variety of operating parameters or conditions. For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, the set distance may be based on at least one of a load size, a load type, a cycle selection, rotation distance D3, etc. The set distance D2 may also depend on a first space S1 between the tracking point 414 of the article 200 and the center404. The set distance D2 may increase as the first space S1 increases due to, for example, rotation about a fixed axis increasing total distance as rotation occurs further from the fixed axis within a period of time. Additionally, or alternatively, the set distance D2 may depend on a second space S2 between the tracking point 414 of the article 200 and that outer wall 402 of the wash basket 114. The set distance D2 may increase as the second space S2 increases due to, for example, less frictional interact between the wash basket 114 and the article 200. For example, a first area of the wash basket 114 proximal the center 404 may have a set distance D2 of about 50 pixels to 150 pixels, about 75 pixels to 125 pixels, or about 100 pixels; a second area of wash basket 114 between the center 404 and the outer wall 402 may have a set distance D2 of about 100 pixels to about 350 pixels, 150 pixels to about 250 pixels, or about 200 pixels; and a third area of the wash basket 114 proximal the outer wall 402 may have a set distance D2 of about 50 pixels to 150 pixels, about 75 pixels to 125 pixels, or about 100 pixels. The first region, the second region, and the third region may be spaced from the center 404 in about equal increments of a third (e.g., about equal bands where band width is outer diameter less the respective inner diameter).

[0066] At 312, the controller determines whether the travel distance D1 is at least as great as the set distance D2. In response to the travel distance D1 being equal to or greater than the set distance D2, the controller 156 will complete the wash cycle operation (step 314). In response to the travel distance D1 being less than the set distance D2, the method will proceed to steps 316 and 318.

[0067] At 316 and 318, the method 300 generally includes generating an output signal. The output signal is based on the articles within the wash basket failing to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time. The output signal may be configured to alert a user. The alert may include indicating, at the washing machine appliance 100 (e.g., via the display 154, that the travel distance D1 is less than the set distance D2. The alert may also include communicating via the external communication system 190, e.g., a user notification to the remote device 192 of the user, that the travel distance D1 is less than the set distance D2. The alert may include a generic message, such as “Ineffective Wash Cycle Operation,” for example only. The alert may also be based on step 308. For example, the alert may indicate that the wash basket 114 and / or the agitation element 132 have rotated less than expected. The alert may, for example, indicate that there is a malfunction with one of the controller 156, motor assembly 138, the wash basket 114, and / or the agitation element 132, etc.

[0068] The washing machine appliance 100 may include a drain pump 130 and implementing the responsive action may include operating the drain pump to decrease a water level within the wash tub. Decreasing the water level within the wash tub may include emptying the wash tub of water. The water level may be determined by the sensor 170 (e.g., a fluid level sensor, a pressure sensor, moisture sensor, a load sensor, or other appropriate device for determining the presence of fluid in a wash tub). Thus, method 300 may include automatically stopping, or abating, a wash cycle operation or otherwise adjusting the duration of the wash cycle based on the generated output signal that is based on the articles within the wash basket failing to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time.

[0069] As explained above, aspects of the present subject matter are directed to a method of assessing agitation effectiveness within a washing machine using a camera fixed in the unit and pointing towards a load during agitation. Article movements may be tracked by placing a set of points in the center for impeller models since the starting point of cloth movement in impeller models is in the center. The starting point placement may be set using a corner detection method like Shi Tomasi corner detection or Harris corner detection to locate good features to track in the specified starting region of interest (ROI). The ROI can be different based on the washer model (impellor vs. agitator models). After starting points are placed, Lucas-Kanade method may be used to calculate optical flow while agitation is in progress. The travel distance of the articles may be estimated by calculating distance from the starting points to the new points generated using optical flow during agitation. The points may reset to a new starting location based on a period of time (e.g., directional change). Based on the travel distance, the agitation profile and the water level may be adjusted to maximize agitation which in turn will improve washing performance.

[0070] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0019]As used herein, the terms “includes” and “including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). Appro...

FIELD

[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to washing machine appliances, or more specifically, to systems and methods for assessing agitation effectiveness in a washing machine appliance.BACKGROUND

[0002] Washing machine appliances generally include a cabinet which receives a wash tub for containing water or wash fluid (e.g., water and detergent, bleach, or other wash additives). The wash tub may be suspended within the cabinet by a suspension system to allow some movement relative to the cabinet during operation. A wash basket is rotatably mounted within the wash tub and defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for washing. A drive assembly is coupled to the wash tub and is configured to selectively rotate the wash basket within the wash tub.

[0003] Washing machine appliances are typically equipped to operate in one or more modes or cycles, such as wash, rinse, and spin cycles. For example, during a wash or rinse cycle, the wash fluid is directed into the wash tub in order to wash and / or rinse articles within the wash chamber. In addition, the wash basket and / or an agitation element can rotate to agitate or impart motion to articles within the wash chamber.

[0004] Washing machine appliances may attempt to agitate articles within the wash basket even with a wash basket that is overloaded with articles. Additionally, washing machine appliances may attempt to agitate items within the wash basket; however, operational malfunctions can impede the washing machine from achieving an intended level of agitation or prevent agitation entirely. For example, the agitation element may malfunction or the wash basket may be overloaded with articles. Further, a malfunctioning agitator or an overloaded wash basket may lead to poor cleaning performance of the articles, an uneven distribution of wash fluids, tangled or even damages articles, an extended wash cycle operation, and the like.

[0005] As such, a system and method for operating a washing machine appliance that can detect and assess agitation effectiveness would be desirable. Furthermore, a system and method for determining fault or failure of an agitation element would be advantageous.BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0006] Advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be apparent from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0007] An aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a washing machine appliance includes a wash tub and a wash basket mounted therewithin. The appliance includes a motor assembly coupled to the wash basket to rotate the wash basket. The appliance includes a camera configured by a controller to capture images of articles within the wash basket. The appliance includes the controller operably coupled to the motor assembly and the camera. The controller is configured to rotate the wash basket. The controller is configured to analyze the images to determine that the articles are rotated less than at least the set distance. The controller is configured to generate an output signal configured to alert a user based on the wash basket failing to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a method of operating a washing machine appliance. The method includes rotating a wash basket a rotated distance. The method includes obtaining a plurality of images. The method includes analyzing the plurality of images to determine that articles within the wash basket are rotated less than a set distance within a period of time based on a travel distance of the articles among the captured images. The method includes generating an output signal configured to alert a user based on the wash basket failing to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time.

[0009] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

[0011] FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a washing machine appliance according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter with a door of the example washing machine appliance shown in a closed position.

[0012] FIG. 2 provides a perspective view of the example washing machine appliance of FIG. 1 with the door of the example washing machine appliance shown in an open position.

[0013] FIG. 3 provides a side cross-sectional view of the example washing machine appliance of FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates a wash basket containing articles before rotating a set distance in a first direction.

[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates the wash basket containing articles after rotating the set distance in the first direction.

[0016] FIG. 6 provides a flow diagram of an example process for implementing an agitation detection method in a washing machine appliance according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0017] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0019] As used herein, the terms “includes” and “including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, is applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about,”“generally,”“approximately,” and “substantially,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. For example, the approximating language may refer to being within a 10 percent margin.

[0020] As used herein, the terms “first,”“second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. Terms such as “inner” and “outer” refer to relative directions with respect to the interior and exterior of the washing machine appliance. For example, “inner” or “inward” refers to the direction towards the interior of the washing machine appliance. Terms such as “left,”“right,”“front,”“back,”“top,” or “bottom” are used with reference to the perspective of the washing machine appliance as illustrated in FIG. 1. For example, a user faces a front of the washing machine appliance to place articles through a top of the washing machine appliance.

[0021] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a washing machine appliance 100 in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. It should be appreciated that, although the washing machine appliance 100 illustrated herein may generally correspond to any suitable washing machine appliance such as a top-loader or front-loader washing machine appliance.

[0022] With reference to FIGS. 1 through 3, the transverse direction, denoted by the arrow labeled “T,” corresponds to the axis along which terms such as “front” and “back” are oriented. The vertical direction, indicated by the arrow labeled “V,” aligns with the axis associated with terms such as “top” and “bottom.” The lateral direction, represented by the arrow labeled “L,” defines the axis along which terms such as “left” and “right” are referenced. These directional conventions provide a standardized framework for the spatial orientation of the washing machine appliance 100 described herein and among FIGS. 1 through 5.

[0023] It should be appreciated that where a value is at a threshold, one skilled in the art may determine whether an action at the threshold may correspond to actions below the threshold or above the threshold. For instance, an action “below a threshold” may include values “at or below a threshold”. In another instance, an action “above a threshold” may include values “at or above a threshold”. One skilled in the art may alter the corresponding action of a value at or equal to a threshold without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0024] Embodiments of a washing machine appliance, a controller for a washing machine appliance, and a method for operating a washing machine appliance are provided. Embodiments provided herein allow for detection of presence of fluid (e.g., water or water-based solution) in a washer tub. Methods provided herein allow for determination of the presence of fluid within or outside of a wash cycle without requiring utilization of a fluid level sensor (e.g., a pressure sensor or switch, a load sensor or switch, a moisture sensor or switch, etc.). Embodiments provided herein may allow for detection of fluid presence in the wash tub while utilizing a fluid sensor, allowing for failure detection of a fluid level sensor or component, such as a drain pump assembly. Embodiments provided herein also allow for sensor-less flood protection or fluid detection.

[0025] FIGS. 1 through 5 illustrate an example embodiment of a vertical axis washing machine appliance 100. Specifically, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate perspective views of washing machine appliance 100 in a closed and an open position, respectively. FIG. 3 provides a side cross-sectional view of washing machine appliance 100. Washing machine appliance 100 generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is generally defined. FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate a top view of a wash basket 114 containing articles 200.

[0026] Washing machine appliance 100 has a cabinet 102 that extends between a top portion 104 and a bottom portion 106 along the vertical direction V, between a first side (left) and a second side (right) along the lateral direction L, and between a front and a rear along the transverse direction T. As best shown in FIG. 3, a wash tub 108 is positioned within cabinet 102, defines a wash chamber 110, and is generally configured for retaining wash fluids during an operating cycle. Washing machine appliance 100 further includes a primary dispenser 112 (FIG. 2) for dispensing wash fluid into wash tub 108. The term “wash fluid” refers to a liquid used for washing and / or rinsing articles during an operating cycle and may include any combination of water, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, and other wash additives or treatments.

[0027] In addition, washing machine appliance 100 includes the wash basket 114 that is positioned within wash tub 108 and generally defines an opening 116 for receipt of articles for washing. More specifically, wash basket 114 is rotatably mounted within wash tub 108 such that it is rotatable about an axis of rotation A. According to the illustrated embodiment, the axis of rotation A is substantially parallel to the vertical direction V. While described in the context of a specific embodiment of vertical axis washing machine appliance 100, it should be appreciated that vertical axis washing machine appliance 100 is provided by way of example only. It will be understood that aspects of the present subject matter may be used in any other suitable washing machine appliance, such as a horizontal axis washing machine appliance. Indeed, modifications and variations may be made to washing machine appliance 100, including different configurations, different appearances, and / or different features while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0028] As illustrated, cabinet 102 of washing machine appliance 100 has a top panel 118. Top panel 118 defines an opening (FIG. 2) that coincides with opening 116 of wash basket 114 to permit a user access to wash basket 114. Washing machine appliance 100 further includes a door 120 which is rotatably mounted to top panel 118 to permit selective access to opening 116. In particular, door 120 selectively rotates between the closed position (as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3) and the open position (as shown in FIG. 2). In the closed position, door 120 inhibits access to wash basket 114. Conversely, in the open position, a user can access wash basket 114. A window 122 in door 120 permits viewing of wash basket 114 when door 120 is in the closed position, e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance 100. Door 120 also includes a handle 124 that, e.g., a user may pull and / or lift when opening and closing door 120. Further, although door 120 is illustrated as mounted to top panel 118, door 120 may alternatively be mounted to cabinet 102 or any other suitable support.

[0029] As best shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, wash basket 114 further defines a plurality of perforations 126 to facilitate fluid communication between an interior of wash basket 114 and wash tub 108. In this regard, wash basket 114 is spaced apart from wash tub 108 to define a space for wash fluid to escape wash chamber 110. During a spin cycle, wash fluid within articles of clothing and within wash chamber 110 is urged through perforations 126 wherein it may collect in a sump 128 defined by wash tub 108. Washing machine appliance 100 further includes a pump assembly 130 (FIG. 3) that is located beneath wash tub 108 and wash basket 114 for gravity assisted flow when draining wash tub 108.

[0030] An impeller or agitation element 132 (FIG. 3), such as a vane agitator, impeller, auger, oscillatory basket mechanism, or some combination thereof is disposed in wash basket 114 to impart an oscillatory motion to articles and liquid in wash basket 114. More specifically, agitation element 132 extends into wash basket 114 and assists agitation of articles disposed within wash basket 114 during operation of washing machine appliance 100, e.g., to facilitate improved cleaning. In different embodiments, agitation element 132 includes a single action element (i.e., oscillatory only), a double action element (oscillatory movement at one end, single direction rotation at the other end) or a triple action element (oscillatory movement plus single direction rotation at one end, single direction rotation at the other end). As illustrated in FIG. 3, agitation element 132 and wash basket 114 are oriented to rotate about axis of rotation A (which is substantially parallel to vertical direction V).

[0031] As best illustrated in FIG. 3, washing machine appliance 100 includes a drive assembly or motor assembly 138 in mechanical communication with wash basket 114 to selectively rotate wash basket 114 (e.g., during an agitation or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance 100). In addition, motor assembly 138 may also be in mechanical communication with agitation element 132. In this manner, motor assembly 138 may be configured for selectively rotating or oscillating wash basket 114 and / or agitation element 132 during various operating cycles of washing machine appliance 100.

[0032] More specifically, motor assembly 138 may generally include one or more of a drive motor 140 and a transmission assembly 142, e.g., such as a clutch assembly, for engaging and disengaging wash basket 114 and / or agitation element 132. According to the illustrated embodiment, drive motor 140 is a brushless DC electric motor, e.g., a pancake motor. However, according to alternative embodiments, drive motor 140 may be any other suitable type or configuration of motor. For example, drive motor 140 may be an AC motor, an induction motor, a permanent magnet synchronous motor, or any other suitable type of motor. In addition, motor assembly 138 may include any other suitable number, types, and configurations of support bearings or drive mechanisms.

[0033] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 3, washing machine appliance 100 may include one or more imaging devices 180 (e.g., cameras, LiDAR, radar, etc.) for detecting a travel distance D1 of the articles 200 within the wash basket 114. The camera 180 may be mounted to the cabinet 102, the door 120, or any other appropriate position at the washing machine appliance 100 for detecting the travel distance D1. The camera 180 may be configured to determine one or more discrete or transient movements of rotary components of the washing machine appliance 100. Certain embodiments may configure the camera 180 configured to determine whether the travel distance D1 has met or exceeded a set distance D2, such as described with regard to one or methods herein. The camera 180 may include various components for detecting the travel distance D1, such as a light 186.

[0034] Referring still to FIGS. 1 through 3, a control panel 150 with at least one input selector 152 (FIG. 1) extends from top panel 118. Control panel 150 and input selector 152 collectively form a user interface input for operator selection of machine cycles and features. A display 154 of control panel 150 indicates selected features, operation mode, a countdown timer, and / or other items of interest to appliance users regarding operation.

[0035] Operation of washing machine appliance 100 is controlled by a controller or processing device 156 that is operatively coupled to control panel 150 for user manipulation to select washing machine cycles and features. In response to user manipulation of control panel 150, controller 156 operates the various components of washing machine appliance 100 to execute selected machine cycles and features. The control panel 150 and / or controller 156 is configured in operative communication with the camera 180 and other sensors (e.g., sensor 170), such as to receive and communicate via output signals, fault signals, validation signals, power output or consumption signals, current signal, voltage signal, or other energy parameter signal, speed signals, or thresholds, such as further described herein. According to an example embodiment, controller 156 may include a memory and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with methods described herein. Alternatively, controller 156 may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and / or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software. Control panel 150 and other components of washing machine appliance 100 may be in communication with controller 156 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.

[0036] Referring still to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of an external communication system 190 will be described according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter. In general, external communication system 190 is configured for permitting interaction, data transfer, and other communications between washing machine appliance 100 and one or more external devices. For example, this communication may be used to provide and receive operating parameters, user instructions or notifications, performance characteristics, user preferences, or any other suitable information for improved performance of washing machine appliance 100. In addition, it should be appreciated that external communication system 190 may be used to transfer data or other information to improve performance of one or more external devices or appliances and / or improve user interaction with such devices.

[0037] For example, external communication system 190 permits controller 156 of washing machine appliance 100 to communicate with a separate device external to washing machine appliance 100, referred to generally herein as an external device 192. As described in more detail below, these communications may be facilitated using a wired or wireless connection, such as via a network 194. In general, external device 192 may be any suitable device separate from washing machine appliance 100 that is configured to provide and / or receive communications, information, data, or commands from a user. In this regard, external device 192 may be, for example, a personal phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop or personal computer, a wearable device, a smart home system, or another mobile or remote device.

[0038] In addition, a remote server 196 may be in communication with washing machine appliance 100 and / or external device 192 through network 194. In this regard, for example, remote server 196 may be a cloud-based server 196, and is thus located at a distant location, such as in a separate state, country, etc. According to an example embodiment, external device 192 may communicate with a remote server 196 over network 194, such as the Internet, to transmit / receive data or information, provide user inputs, receive user notifications or instructions, interact with or control washing machine appliance 100, etc. In addition, external device 192 and remote server 196 may communicate with washing machine appliance 100 to communicate similar information.

[0039] In general, communication between washing machine appliance 100, external device 192, remote server 196, and / or other user devices or appliances may be carried using any type of wired or wireless connection and using any suitable type of communication network, non-limiting examples of which are provided below. For example, external device 192 may be in direct or indirect communication with washing machine appliance 100 through any suitable wired or wireless communication connections or interfaces, such as network 194. For example, network 194 may include one or more of a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a personal area network (PAN), the Internet, a cellular network, any other suitable short-or long-range wireless networks, etc. In addition, communications may be transmitted using any suitable communications devices or protocols, such as via Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, Zigbee®, wireless radio, laser, infrared, Ethernet type devices and interfaces, etc. In addition, such communication may use a variety of communication protocols (e.g., TCP / IP, HTTP, SMTP, FTP), encodings or formats (e.g., HTML, XML), and / or protection schemes (e.g., VPN, secure HTTP, SSL).

[0040] External communication system 190 is described herein according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter. However, it should be appreciated that the example functions and configurations of external communication system 190 provided herein are used only as examples to facilitate description of aspects of the present subject matter. System configurations may vary, other communication devices may be used to communicate directly or indirectly with one or more associated appliances, other communication protocols and steps may be implemented, etc. These variations and modifications are contemplated as within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0041] During operation of washing machine appliance 100, laundry items are loaded into wash basket 114 through opening 116, and washing operation is initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors 152. Wash basket 114 is filled with water and detergent and / or other fluid additives via primary dispenser 112. One or more valves can be controlled by washing machine appliance 100 to provide for filling wash tub 108 and wash basket 114 to the appropriate level for the amount of articles being washed and / or rinsed. By way of example for a wash mode, once wash basket 114 is properly filled with fluid, the contents of wash basket 114 can be agitated (e.g., with agitation element 132 as discussed previously) for washing of laundry items in wash basket 114.

[0042] More specifically, referring again to FIG. 3, a water fill process will be described according to an example embodiment. As illustrated, washing machine appliance 100 includes a water supply conduit 160 that provides fluid communication between a water supply source 162 (such as a municipal water supply) and a discharge nozzle 164 for directing a flow of water into wash chamber 110. In addition, washing machine appliance 100 includes a water fill valve or water control valve 166 which is operably coupled to water supply conduit 160 and communicatively coupled to controller 156. In this manner, controller 156 may regulate the operation of water control valve 166 to regulate the amount of water within wash tub 108.

[0043] Although water supply conduit 160, water supply source 162, discharge nozzle 164, and water control valve 166 are all described and illustrated herein in the singular form, it should be appreciated that these terms may be used herein generally to describe a supply plumbing for providing hot and / or cold water into wash chamber 110. In this regard, water supply conduit 160 may include separate conduits for receiving hot and cold water, respectively. Similarly, water supply source 162 may include both hot-and cold-water supplies regulated by dedicated valves. In addition, washing machine appliance 100 may include one or more fluid level sensors 170 for detecting the amount of water and or clothes within wash tub 108. For example, fluid level sensor 170 may be operably coupled to a side of tub 108 for detecting the weight, load, or pressure of wash tub 108, which controller 156 may use to determine a volume of water in wash chamber 110 and a sub-washer load weight. The fluid level sensor 170 may form a sensor configured to determine one or more discrete values of pressure, load, weight, or moisture. Certain embodiments of the fluid level sensor 170 may form a switch configured to determine whether a threshold value has been met or exceeded.

[0044] After wash tub 108 is filled and the agitation phase of the wash cycle is completed, wash basket 114 can be drained, e.g., by drain pump assembly 130. Laundry articles can then be rinsed by again adding fluid to wash basket 114 depending on the specifics of the cleaning cycle selected by a user. The impeller or agitation element 132 may again provide agitation within wash basket 114. One or more spin cycles may also be used as part of the cleaning process. In particular, a spin cycle may be applied after the wash cycle and / or after the rinse cycle in order to wring wash fluid from the articles being washed. During a spin cycle, wash basket 114 is rotated at relatively high speeds to help wring fluid from the laundry articles through perforations 126. During or prior to the spin cycle, drain pump assembly 130 may operate to discharge wash fluid from wash tub 108, e.g., to an external drain. After articles disposed in wash basket 114 are cleaned and / or washed, the user can remove the articles from wash basket 114, e.g., by reaching into wash basket 114 through opening 116.

[0045] Referring now specifically to FIGS. 2 and 3, washing machine appliance 100 may further include the imaging device 180 that is generally positioned and configured for obtaining images within wash chamber 110 of washing machine appliance 100. Specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, the camera assembly 180 may be mounted to an underside of door 120 of washing machine appliance 100. In this manner, when door 120 is in the closed position, camera 180 may be positioned over wash chamber 110 and may be oriented for obtaining images within wash chamber 110. Specifically, camera 180 is mounted such that is faces toward a bottom side of wash tub 108. In this manner, camera 180 can take unobstructed images or video of an inside of wash chamber 110, e.g., including images of wash basket 114.

[0046] It should be appreciated that camera 180 may include any suitable number, type, size, and configuration of camera(s) for obtaining images of wash chamber 110. In general, cameras 180 may include a lens that is constructed from a clear hydrophobic material or which may otherwise be positioned behind a hydrophobic clear lens. So positioned, camera 180 may obtain one or more images or videos within wash chamber 110, as described in more detail below. It should be appreciated that other locations for mounting the camera 180 are possible, such as below or adjacent a discharge nozzle 164 of washing machine appliance 100.

[0047] Referring still to FIGS. 2 through 3, washing machine appliance 100 may further include the tub light 186 that is positioned within cabinet 102 or wash chamber 110 for selectively illuminating wash chamber 110 and the load of articles, or clothes, positioned therein. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, tub light 186 may be integrated with the camera 180 and may be positioned thereupon. According to still other embodiments, tub light 186 may be positioned at any other suitable location within cabinet 102. It should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, washing machine appliance 100 may include any other camera or system of imaging devices for obtaining images of the load of clothes. In addition, these cameras may be positioned at any suitable location within cabinet 102, may include any suitable lighting features, and may utilize any suitable photography or imaging technology.

[0048] Notably, controller 156 of washing machine appliance 100 (or any other suitable dedicated controller) may be communicatively coupled to camera 180, tub light 186, and other components of washing machine appliance 100. As explained in more detail below, controller 156 may be programmed or configured for analyzing the images obtained by camera 180, e.g., in order to assess agitation effectiveness, and may use this information to make informed decisions regarding the operation of washing machine appliance 100.

[0049] Now that the construction of washing machine appliance 100 and the configuration of controller 156 according to example embodiments have been presented, an example method 300 of operating a washing machine appliance will be described (hereinafter, “method 300”). Although the discussion below refers to the example method 300 of operating washing machine appliance 100, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the example method 300 is applicable to the operation of a variety of other washing machine appliances, such as horizontal axis washing machine appliances. In the example embodiments, the various method steps as disclosed herein may be performed by controller 156 or a separate, dedicated controller. Steps of the method 300 may be stored as instructions in one or more memory devices associated with the controller 156. Steps of the method 300 may be executed by embodiments of the motor assembly 138, camera 180, and drain pump assembly 130 such as provided herein. Accordingly, the controller 156 or other control device may be configured to perform operations such as provided in one or more steps of the method 300.

[0050] Referring now to FIG. 5, a flowchart outlining example steps of the method 300 of operating a washing machine appliance is provided. The method 300 includes at 302 receiving a wash cycle operation signal. Step 302 may include a user manually selecting at the input selectors 152, which wash cycle operation should be completed. The controller 156 may receive the wash cycle operation signal from the input selectors 152.

[0051] At 304, the method 300 includes initiating the wash cycle operation including capturing a plurality of images of the wash chamber (e.g., wash chamber 110) with the camera 180. Step 304 may also include instructing the motor assembly 138 to rotate the wash basket (e.g., wash basket 114) to at least a rotated distance D3. In this regard, for example, initiation of the wash cycle operation generally involves the identification of a variety of wash parameters based on the type of wash cycle desired. For example, the load size for a given wash may be associated with a predetermined targeted water level within the wash tub. In another example, the agitation profile, which may depend upon the wash cycle type (e.g., delicates, heavy-duty, etc.), may be associated with a predetermined intensity of movement targeted by the agitation element or impeller, such as, for example, the agitator ramp up speed or the length of time the agitator is activated. In still other examples, the temperature setting of the washing machine appliance may be associated with a given water temperature to be used with each particular setting. Accordingly, at step 304, a wash cycle operation may be initiated employing the predetermined parameters associated with the various settings for the particular cycle.

[0052] Continuing the example from above, at the beginning of the wash cycle operation, water control valve 166 may be regulated to supply wash fluid into wash tub 108 after the load of articles has been added to wash basket 114. Motor assembly 138 may be activated when the wash fluid reaches the desired fill level in order to agitate and clean the load of clothes within wash basket 114. More specifically, agitation may be achieved by selectively rotating wash basket 114 and / or agitation element 132, thereby generating rotation of the load of clothes within wash basket 114. As explained above, rotation is generally a measure of the movement of articles of clothing within wash basket 114 during a period of time. The period of time starts at an initial change of direction (e.g., clockwise) and resets (i.e., ends and starts again) at a subsequent change of direction (e.g., counterclockwise) of the articles 200 within the wash basket 114. Additionally, or alternatively, the period of time may start and reset based on respective initial change of direction and a subsequent change of direction of the wash basket 114 and / or agitation element 132. For example, the direction the controller 156 instructs the motor assembly 138 to rotate the wash basket 114 and / or the agitation element 132 may be stored in memory of the controller 156. According to an exemplary embodiment, washing machine appliances that include central agitation element, e.g., such as washing machine appliance 100, facilitate a rotational process where the clothes at the top of wash basket 114 generally move arcuately around the center of the wash basket 114 and / or agitation element 132.

[0053] Step 304 also generally includes obtaining a series of image frames using a camera. In this regard, for example, camera 180 may obtain one or more images, a series of frames, a video, or any other suitable visual representation of the load of articles. As will be explained in more detail below, this series of image frames may be used to monitor the motion or rotation (e.g., travel distance D1) of the load of articles within wash basket 114.

[0054] According to the illustrated embodiment, wash basket 114 includes bottom wall 400 and a cylindrical outer wall 402 which collectively define at least a portion of wash chamber 110. As illustrated, camera 180 is generally mounted above wash basket 114 and has a field of view directed toward bottom wall 400 of wash basket 114. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, camera assembly 180 is positioned directly over a center 404 a bottom wall 400 of wash basket 114. According to such an embodiment, the field of view of camera assembly 180 may be directed directly down along the vertical direction V toward center 404 of bottom wall 400.

[0055] Step 306 includes calculating the travel distance D1 of the articles. Step 306 may generally include identifying a tracking point on one article from the load of articles using a first image frame from the series of image frames. In this regard, as a starting point for monitoring the rotation of the load of articles within a wash basket, the first image frame of the series of image frames may be used to identify a specific location or feature on a specific garment within the load of clothes for tracking purposes. For example, referring briefly to FIGS. 4 and 5, a first image frame 410 of the series of images is provided and shows a load of articles 200 illustrated within a wash basket 114 according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter. A tracking point 416 may be identified using any suitable image processing technique or analysis, examples of which may be described below.

[0056] Referring again to FIGS. 4 through 6, step 306 may generally include generating the travel distance D1 of the tracking point over the series of image frames using an optical flow technique. In this regard, by analyzing the series of image frames, the tracking point 416 on load of articles 200 may be identified in each frame (e.g., a first image frame 410 and a subsequent image frame 420), and the path of travel of that specific point may be determined. A schematic representation of the motion path of tracking point 416 through a series of image frames is provided within a horizontal plane in FIG. 5 and identified generally by D1. In this regard, travel distance D1 generally begins at one location of wash basket 114 and moves arcuately along the center of the basket 114. It should be appreciated that travel distance D1 illustrated in FIG. 5 is overlaid on wash basket 114 only for purposes of describing aspects of the present subject matter. The travel distance D1 is only exemplary and may vary while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0057] As used herein, the terms “optical flow” and the like are generally intended to refer to any suitable process for analyzing a series of image frames or processing a video for tracking a target object or point. These algorithms or techniques may be used to track the motion of object, surfaces, edges, corners, etc. in a two-dimensional or three-dimensional space. This technique may be applied to a series of images or video frames that have a small time step between them and may include calculating a velocity for points within the images as well as an estimation of where points could be in the next frame. For example, an optical flow algorithm may generally analyze or track the pixels of consecutive frames of a video file to track a specific point or object within the video. This optical flow algorithm may be implemented using camera 180 and controller 156 or may be implemented using a remote analysis device (e.g., located on remote server 196).

[0058] Various optical flow algorithms may be utilized according to exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter. In this regard, for example, suitable flow algorithms may include dense optical flow (e.g., which may estimate flow vectors for all pixels within a frame), sparse optical flow (e.g., which may estimate flow vectors for pixels containing objects of interest, edges, corners, etc.), or variations therebetween. According to still other embodiments, optical flow techniques may include phase correlation, block-based methods, discrete optimization methods, or differential methods of estimating optical flow (e.g., based on partial derivatives of the image signal and / or the sought flow field and higher-order partial derivatives). For example, differential methods may include a Lucas-Kanade method, a Horn-Schunck method, a Buxton-Buxton method, a Black-Jepson method, and / or general variational methods (e.g., modifications or extension of the methods described herein).

[0059] In addition, or alternatively, various techniques for identifying tracking points within a region of interest may be used, such as Shi-Tomasi corner detection, Harris corner detection, Farneback optical flow, Lucas-Kanade techniques, or any other suitable techniques may be used. It should be appreciated that other known techniques of optical flow analysis are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter. Corner detection methods may be used to identify corners or edges for use as tracking points. In general, corner detections may include, but are not limited to Moravec corner detection algorithms, Harris and Stephens corner detection algorithms, Shi-Tomasi corner detection algorithms, Förstner corner detection algorithms, multi-scale Harris operators, level curve curvature approaches, Laplacian of Gaussian methods, Wang and Brady corner detection algorithms, SUSAN (smallest uni-value segment assimilating nucleus) methods, Trajkovic and Hedley corner detector, AST-based (accelerated segment test) feature detectors, or any other suitable corner detection method known to one having ordinary skill in the art, or combinations therebetween.

[0060] One exemplary implementation of the optical flow technique includes the use of a frame-by-frame analysis of a specific pixel window that includes the target tracking point. In this regard, for example, a target tracking point may be identified in the first frame along with a pixel window surrounding the tracking point (e.g., with the tracking point as its center). The size of the pixel window may vary depending on the projected movement of the tracking point, but for purposes of explanation the size of the pixel window may be a 20×20 pixel window (i.e., 400 total pixels). For the second frame, the optical flow process may analyze the original pixel window from the first frame to again identify the tracking point, which has now moved from the center of the pixel window. A new pixel window with the new tracking point may be identified and the process may proceed through the series of image frames to track the coordinates or location of the tracking point over time.

[0061] As described above, a single tracking point 414 is used to generate a single travel distance D1 for assessing agitation effectiveness. However, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, multiple travel distances D1 may be used to obtain a more accurate assessment of the agitation effectiveness. For example, method 300 may include identifying a plurality of tracking points at the start of the period of time from the load of articles from within the first image frame 410 and may simultaneously track these tracking points 414 to generate multiple travel distances D1 for each tracking point over the series of images. The method 300 may include selecting new tracking points when the period of time resets. The data associated with each of these travel distances may be averaged for an improved estimation of the agitation effectiveness of the load of articles 200. For example, according to example embodiments, method 300 may include simultaneously tracking between about 10 and about 200 tracking points, between about 20 and about 100 tracking points, or about 50 tracking points.

[0062] In addition, although the process of resetting tracking point 414 is described herein with reference to wash basket 114, it should be appreciated the process may vary for a wash basket that includes an agitator that generally facilitates cloth movement from the outside toward a center of the wash basket. Specifically, according to such an embodiment, the tracking point may be reset when falls inside a predetermined radial distance defined around the center of the wash basket. It should be appreciated that other methods of resetting one or more tracking points are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0063] The method may include a step 308. At 308, the controller 156 calculates a rotation distance D3 of the wash basket 114 and / or the agitation element 132. For example, as the wash basket 114 and / or the agitation element 132 rotates a rotation distance D3, forces act on the articles 200 (e.g., frictional forces) to lessen a magnitude of the travel distance D1 compared to the rotation distance D3. The small the load, the fewer forces act on the articles 200 to decrease the travel distance D1 relative to the rotation distance D3. The controller 156 may calculate the rotation distance D3 using a look-up table stored in memory or a suitable equation stored in memory based on the measured travel distance D1, load size, water volume, etc.

[0064] At 310, the method 300 includes comparing the travel distance D1 to a set distance D2. In this regard, the set distance D2 may correspond to a minimum desired magnitude of the travel distance D2 of the load of clothes for facilitating suitable agitation and cleaning action for a given operating cycle and parameters.

[0065] The set distance D2 may be programmed by the manufacturer, set by the user, and may be dependent on a variety of operating parameters or conditions. For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, the set distance may be based on at least one of a load size, a load type, a cycle selection, rotation distance D3, etc. The set distance D2 may also depend on a first space S1 between the tracking point 414 of the article 200 and the center404. The set distance D2 may increase as the first space S1 increases due to, for example, rotation about a fixed axis increasing total distance as rotation occurs further from the fixed axis within a period of time. Additionally, or alternatively, the set distance D2 may depend on a second space S2 between the tracking point 414 of the article 200 and that outer wall 402 of the wash basket 114. The set distance D2 may increase as the second space S2 increases due to, for example, less frictional interact between the wash basket 114 and the article 200. For example, a first area of the wash basket 114 proximal the center 404 may have a set distance D2 of about 50 pixels to 150 pixels, about 75 pixels to 125 pixels, or about 100 pixels; a second area of wash basket 114 between the center 404 and the outer wall 402 may have a set distance D2 of about 100 pixels to about 350 pixels, 150 pixels to about 250 pixels, or about 200 pixels; and a third area of the wash basket 114 proximal the outer wall 402 may have a set distance D2 of about 50 pixels to 150 pixels, about 75 pixels to 125 pixels, or about 100 pixels. The first region, the second region, and the third region may be spaced from the center 404 in about equal increments of a third (e.g., about equal bands where band width is outer diameter less the respective inner diameter).

[0066] At 312, the controller determines whether the travel distance D1 is at least as great as the set distance D2. In response to the travel distance D1 being equal to or greater than the set distance D2, the controller 156 will complete the wash cycle operation (step 314). In response to the travel distance D1 being less than the set distance D2, the method will proceed to steps 316 and 318.

[0067] At 316 and 318, the method 300 generally includes generating an output signal. The output signal is based on the articles within the wash basket failing to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time. The output signal may be configured to alert a user. The alert may include indicating, at the washing machine appliance 100 (e.g., via the display 154, that the travel distance D1 is less than the set distance D2. The alert may also include communicating via the external communication system 190, e.g., a user notification to the remote device 192 of the user, that the travel distance D1 is less than the set distance D2. The alert may include a generic message, such as “Ineffective Wash Cycle Operation,” for example only. The alert may also be based on step 308. For example, the alert may indicate that the wash basket 114 and / or the agitation element 132 have rotated less than expected. The alert may, for example, indicate that there is a malfunction with one of the controller 156, motor assembly 138, the wash basket 114, and / or the agitation element 132, etc.

[0068] The washing machine appliance 100 may include a drain pump 130 and implementing the responsive action may include operating the drain pump to decrease a water level within the wash tub. Decreasing the water level within the wash tub may include emptying the wash tub of water. The water level may be determined by the sensor 170 (e.g., a fluid level sensor, a pressure sensor, moisture sensor, a load sensor, or other appropriate device for determining the presence of fluid in a wash tub). Thus, method 300 may include automatically stopping, or abating, a wash cycle operation or otherwise adjusting the duration of the wash cycle based on the generated output signal that is based on the articles within the wash basket failing to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time.

[0069] As explained above, aspects of the present subject matter are directed to a method of assessing agitation effectiveness within a washing machine using a camera fixed in the unit and pointing towards a load during agitation. Article movements may be tracked by placing a set of points in the center for impeller models since the starting point of cloth movement in impeller models is in the center. The starting point placement may be set using a corner detection method like Shi Tomasi corner detection or Harris corner detection to locate good features to track in the specified starting region of interest (ROI). The ROI can be different based on the washer model (impellor vs. agitator models). After starting points are placed, Lucas-Kanade method may be used to calculate optical flow while agitation is in progress. The travel distance of the articles may be estimated by calculating distance from the starting points to the new points generated using optical flow during agitation. The points may reset to a new starting location based on a period of time (e.g., directional change). Based on the travel distance, the agitation profile and the water level may be adjusted to maximize agitation which in turn will improve washing performance.

[0070] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0019]As used herein, the terms “includes” and “including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). Appro...

Claims

1. A washing machine appliance, comprising:a wash tub positioned within a cabinet, wherein the cabinet extends between a top portion and a bottom portion along a vertical direction, between a first side and a second side along a lateral direction, and between a front and a rear along a transverse direction;a wash basket rotatably mounted within the wash tub;a motor assembly operably coupled to the wash basket for selectively rotating the wash basket;an imaging device positioned proximal to the top portion of the cabinet, wherein the imaging device is configured to capture images of articles within the wash basket;a controller operably coupled to the motor assembly and the imaging device, the controller being configured to:rotate the wash basket a rotated distance;obtain one or more images of with the imaging device;analyze the images to determine that the articles within the wash basket are rotated less than a set distance within a period of time based on the captured images; andgenerate an output signal configured to alert a user based on the articles within the wash basket failing to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time.

2. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, the washing machine appliance comprising:a drain pump assembly fluidly coupled to the wash tub for selectively draining wash fluid from the wash tub.

3. The washing machine appliance of claim 2, the controller further configured to:determine the wash tub contains fluid; andcommence an abatement cycle based on the wash basket failing to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time.

4. The washing machine appliance of claim 3, wherein the abatement cycle comprises operating the drain pump assembly to drain fluid from the wash tub.

5. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, the washing machine appliance further comprising a fluid level sensor configured to generate a fluid level signal corresponding to a fluid level at the wash tub.

6. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, the cabinet further comprising a door rotatably coupled with the cabinet to selectively provide access to the wash basket, and wherein the imaging device is coupled with the door.

7. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, the washing machine appliance further comprising a light positioned proximal to the top portion of the cabinet, wherein the light is configured to illuminate the articles within the wash basket.

8. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to generate an alert that the wash basket has failed to rotate the rotated distance based on determining that the articles within the wash basket are rotated to less than the set distance within a period of time.

9. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, wherein the wash basket rotates about a central axis, wherein a travel distance of the articles within the period of time depends on:a first space between the articles and the central axis, wherein the set distance increases as the first space between the articles and the central axis increases; anda second space between the articles and the wash basket, wherein the set distance increases as the second space between the articles and the wash basket increases.

10. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, wherein the period of time starts based on an initial directional change of the wash basket between clockwise and counterclockwise, and wherein the period of time ends based on a subsequent directional change of the wash basket between clockwise and counterclockwise.

11. The washing machine appliance of claim 10, wherein the initial directional change of the wash basket and the subsequent directional change of the wash basket are based on articles within the wash basket changing direction.

12. A method of operating a washing machine appliance, the method comprising:attempting to rotate a wash basket a rotated distance;obtaining a plurality of images of articles within the wash basket;analyzing the plurality of images to determine that the articles within the wash basket are rotated less than a set distance within a period of time based on a travel distance of the articles among the plurality of images; andgenerating an output signal configured to alert a user based on the articles within the wash basket failing to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising the steps of:determining a wash tub contains fluid; andcommencing an abatement cycle based on the articles within the wash basket failing to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time.

14. The method of claim 13 further comprising the step of operating a drain pump assembly to drain fluid from the wash tub.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein the period of time starts based on an initial directional change of the articles within the wash basket between clockwise and counterclockwise, and wherein the period of time ends based on a subsequent directional change of the articles within wash basket between clockwise and counterclockwise.

16. The method of claim 12, wherein the wash basket attempts to rotate about a central axis, and wherein the set distance within the period of time depends on:a first space between the articles and the central axis; anda second space between the articles and the wash basket.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the set distance increases as the first space increases, and wherein the set distance increases as the second space increases.

18. The method of claim 12, wherein the step of generating the output signal configured to alert the user includes at least one of:indicating, at the washing machine appliance, that the wash basket has failed to rotate at least the rotated distance within the period of time; ornotifying, at a personal device of the user, that the wash basket has failed to rotate at least the rotated distance within the period of time.

19. The method of claim 12, wherein the step of generating the output signal configured to alert the user includes at least one of:indicating, at the washing machine appliance, that the articles within the wash basket have failed to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time; ornotifying, at a personal device of the user, that the articles within the wash basket have failed to rotate at least the set distance within the period of time.

20. The method of claim 12 further comprising the step of illuminating, via a light of the washing machine appliance, the articles within the wash basket.

Images