Laundry Load Size Detection Using Imaging and Graduated Markings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laundry treating appliances often face suboptimal performance due to users' inaccurate estimation of laundry load size, as current systems rely on mass measurement which does not account for volume, leading to confusion and inefficient operations.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an imaging device and controller with a processor to generate images of the treating chamber with graduated markings, allowing for detection and determination of load size by comparing detected markings to reference information, thereby providing a more accurate assessment of the load volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mass measurement is used to determine load size, then the measurement process is simple, but the load size determination accuracy is insufficient and does not reflect actual volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical mass measurement system with an optical imaging system. The imaging device captures images of the treating chamber, and image processing algorithms analyze the visual information to determine load size based on volume displacement, eliminating the need for mechanical sensors and providing more accurate volumetric measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces water as an intermediary medium. By measuring the displacement of water level or volume in the treating chamber caused by the laundry load, the system indirectly determines the load size. This intermediary approach allows for accurate volumetric measurement without direct contact with the load.
2Measurement precision
If manual input of load size is allowed, then the operation is simple, but the accuracy of cycle parameters is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic load size determination without requiring user input. The imaging device automatically captures images, and the controller processes these images to calculate the load size, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating manual estimation errors while maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback to users through the captured images, allowing them to verify the detected load size. This feedback mechanism builds user trust in the automatic measurement system while maintaining operational simplicity.
3Loss of information
If mass-based measurement is used, then the device structure is simple, but it causes user confusion and does not provide full understanding of load size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional mass measurement to three-dimensional volumetric measurement. By capturing images that show the spatial occupation of the laundry load and analyzing the volume displacement in the treating chamber, the system provides comprehensive dimensional information that helps users understand the actual load size in terms they can visualize.
Data Source
AI summary
Method of determining a laundry load size in a laundry treating appliance comprising a rotatable drum at least partially defining a treating chamber for receiving laundry for treatment in accordance with a treating cycle of operation, an imaging device, and a controller having a processor, the method includes generating an image, detecting markings in the generated image, and determining, by the controller, a load size based thereon.