Washing Machine Illumination Control Using Sensor-Based Time Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Drum washing machines have insufficient internal lighting, making it difficult for users to observe and retrieve clothing, and current illumination control methods are either constant, leading to resource waste and wear, or lack intelligence in timing.
Innovation Solution
A method for dynamically controlling illumination in the washing treatment chamber using sensors to detect user presence and activity, adjusting the illumination time based on probability and environmental conditions, and prolonging it when necessary to prevent premature shutdown.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the illuminating lamp is controlled to constantly shine, then the user can always see inside the drum, but this causes resource waste and wear and tear on the lamp
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination control system dynamically adjusts the lamp operation state based on real-time detection of user presence and operational status. The system transitions between illuminated and non-illuminated states according to changing conditions, making the illumination availability adaptive rather than static, thus resolving the contradiction between constant illumination and energy waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to detect user presence and operational status, then feeds this information back to the control device which adjusts the illumination accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures the lamp is illuminated only when actually needed, eliminating energy waste while maintaining illumination availability when users are present.
2Device complexity
If the illuminating lamp is controlled by a fixed time duration, then the control is simple, but the illumination may turn off prematurely before the user finishes retrieving clothing
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors user presence and operational status during the illumination period and provides feedback to the control device. If the user is still present and operating the device when the fixed time expires, the system extends the illumination period. This feedback mechanism maintains reliability by ensuring illumination continues as long as needed, while keeping the base control logic simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination duration is made dynamic rather than fixed. The system starts with a predetermined time period but can extend this period based on real-time detection of ongoing user activity. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by maintaining simple initial control while adapting to actual usage conditions to prevent premature shutdown.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used to detect user presence and activity, then the accuracy of determining whether to prolong illumination is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple types of sensors (first sensor for user presence, second sensor for operational status, third sensor for environmental light conditions) into a unified detection system. By merging these sensors and their functions, the system achieves high measurement precision for determining user presence and activity while managing complexity through integrated control logic that processes all sensor inputs together.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach ensures flexible and intelligent illumination control, reducing unnecessary wear and tear on the lighting while ensuring adequate lighting during clothing retrieval, enhancing user experience and resource efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least one radar sensor for detecting a position and/or a movement of the user
Implementation Method 2
at least one ultrasonic sensor for detecting whether the user is in the operating region of the washing treatment device
Implementation Method 3
at least one infrared sensor for detecting whether the user is in the operating region of the washing treatment device
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention discloses a method for controlling illumination in a washing treatment chamber (11) of a washing treatment device (1). The method at least comprises the following steps: on the basis of a trigger signal, initially setting a remaining illumination time and starting illumination in the washing treatment chamber (11); when the remaining illumination time is less than a remaining time threshold, judging whether it is necessary to prolong the remaining illumination time; and in a situation where it is necessary to prolong the remaining illumination time, prolonging the remaining illumination time. Further disclosed are the corresponding washing treatment device (1), such as a drum washing machine, and a corresponding computer program product, such as a computer-readable program carrier. According to certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention, illumination in the washing treatment chamber may be controlled reliably, flexibly, and dynamically according to requirements.