Washing machine and cloud server setting function based on object sensing using artificial intelligence, and method for setting function
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Solution Overview
Problem
Washing machines lack the ability to automatically identify the properties of laundry and adjust their functions accordingly, leading to potential damage or inefficiency when dealing with special loads such as duvets or padded clothing.
Innovation Solution
A washing machine and cloud server system that uses object sensing and machine learning to identify the properties of laundry through sensors and images, determining the optimal wash course by analyzing features like height, weight, and image data, and adjusting operations to prevent issues like water splash and unbalanced power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If washing machine uses basic sensor functions to detect laundry, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and identification accuracy of laundry properties deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing functions (image recognition, weight measurement, volume detection) into an integrated sensing system. The control unit merges data from the image sensor, weight sensor, and volume sensor to comprehensively identify laundry properties, resolving the contradiction by achieving high measurement precision through functional integration rather than through complex individual sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it controls washing operations, processes image data, analyzes weight information, calculates volume, and identifies laundry properties. This multi-functional approach allows the system to achieve comprehensive laundry identification without requiring separate complex dedicated sensors for each measurement type.
2Measurement precision
If washing machine adds multiple sensors and image analysis capabilities to identify laundry properties, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that processes raw sensor data and translates it into meaningful laundry property identification. Instead of requiring complex sensors, the system uses simple sensors whose outputs are processed by the control unit's image processing and analysis capabilities, achieving high measurement precision through intelligent data processing rather than through complex sensing hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or electronic sensing mechanisms with a combination of simple sensors and software-based image processing. The control unit uses image analysis algorithms to identify laundry properties, substituting what would otherwise require complex physical sensors with computational methods that achieve the same measurement precision with simpler hardware.
3Ease of operation
If washing machine uses simple function setting to operate, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability to different laundry types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The washing machine automatically identifies laundry properties using image sensors, weight sensors, and volume sensors, then autonomously determines appropriate washing functions and parameters. The control unit processes sensor data to identify laundry type, material, and characteristics, then automatically selects the optimal wash course without requiring user input, achieving both ease of operation and high adaptability through self-service functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors sensor inputs (image data, weight, volume) and uses this feedback to automatically adjust washing parameters. The control unit processes real-time sensor feedback to identify laundry properties and dynamically selects appropriate washing functions, enabling the machine to adapt to different laundry types while maintaining simple operation for the user.
4Device complexity
If washing machine lacks automated laundry identification, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and washing efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification of laundry properties using image sensors, weight sensors, and volume sensors before the washing cycle begins. The control unit analyzes sensor data to determine laundry type and characteristics in advance, then pre-configures optimal washing parameters, enabling efficient washing operations without requiring complex real-time adjustments during the cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The washing machine automatically identifies laundry properties and determines optimal washing parameters without user intervention. The control unit processes sensor data to autonomously select wash courses, water levels, and timing, achieving high productivity through automated decision-making that eliminates manual function setting while maintaining system accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A washing machine and at least one server that set functions of the washing machine based on object sensing using artificial intelligence, and a setting method thereof. The washing machine that sets functions based on object sensing produces information on setting of a wash course adequate for laundry on the basis of the height, image, and weight of the laundry, physical information or electrical information generated during a wash or receives the information from the at least one server and operates.