Automatic control method for water pump and heating body of garment steamer

Abstract

This invention discloses an automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of a garment steamer. The method controls the heating element relay to operate at a preset duty cycle until the temperature reaches a preset preheating temperature. Upon receiving a work command, the system controls the water pump to supply water at its initial setting and the heating element to heat at its initial power, then gradually increases the heating power to its maximum. The system continuously monitors the duration for which the temperature remains within the preset temperature range. If the duration does not reach the preset threshold, the heating power is reduced and the water pump supply setting is increased, and the monitoring is repeated. If the duration reaches the preset threshold multiple times consecutively, the current water pump supply setting is determined as the matching water volume setting and stored. Subsequent operations directly call upon the stored matching water volume setting to control the water pump supply. This invention effectively avoids splattering or dripping water by automatically adjusting the matching relationship between the water pump setting and the heating power, ensuring the stability of the steam temperature.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of garment steamer software technology, and relates to an automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of a garment steamer. Background Technology

[0002] Current garment steamers typically operate with a fixed heating power and a fixed water flow rate. This mode cannot adapt to the actual needs of different water qualities or usage environments. When the water supply is mismatched with the heating element's power, it easily leads to unstable steam temperature. If the water supply is too low, the surface temperature of the heating element can easily exceed the safe range, causing splattering and resulting in hot water droplets spraying out and scalding the user. If the water supply is too high, the water temperature cannot reach the temperature required for complete atomization, resulting in liquid water droplets mixed in with the steam, causing dripping, affecting the ironing effect and wetting the clothes.

[0003] Some existing products attempt to address these issues by manually adjusting the power settings. However, users find it difficult to accurately determine the optimal water volume and power combination for the current operating conditions. Manual adjustment is cumbersome and relies on experience, failing to achieve real-time dynamic adjustment. Furthermore, existing control schemes lack an effective monitoring mechanism for the duration of temperature stability. The system cannot automatically identify whether the current water volume and heating power are optimally matched. This results in the garment steamer struggling to maintain stable dry steam output during long-term use, reducing product reliability and user experience.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a control method that can automatically match water volume and power to solve the technical problems of large temperature fluctuations and unstable steam quality. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the problems existing in the background technology, this invention proposes an automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of a garment steamer.

[0006] The first aspect of this application provides an automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of a garment steamer, including: The heating element relay is controlled to operate at a preset duty cycle until the temperature detected by the temperature sensor reaches the preset preheating temperature. Upon receiving the work instruction, the water pump is controlled to supply water at the initial setting, and the heating element is controlled to heat at the initial power, and then the heating power is gradually increased to the maximum power. The duration for which the temperature value fed back by the real-time temperature sensor remains within the preset temperature range; If the duration does not reach the preset threshold, the heating power is reduced to the initial power. After the temperature drops to the lower limit of the preset temperature range, the heating power is increased and the water pump supply level is increased by one level. The detection steps are repeated. If the duration reaches the preset threshold multiple times consecutively, the current water pump supply level is determined as the matching water volume level and stored. During operation, the stored matching water volume level is directly called to control the water pump supply.

[0007] Optionally, the preset temperature range is composed of a first temperature threshold and a second temperature threshold, wherein the first temperature threshold is greater than the critical temperature for atomized dripping water and the second temperature threshold is less than the critical temperature for blasting water.

[0008] Optionally, the control of the water pump to supply water at the initial gear specifically involves controlling the AC water pump using a wave dropping method, with a wave dropping cycle of fifty half waves, and adjusting the water supply flow rate by controlling the number of half waves activated.

[0009] Optionally, the control of the heating element to heat with initial power specifically involves controlling the relay using an analog pulse width modulation method, with a fixed duration as the control cycle, and adjusting the equivalent power by the relay's on-time within the control cycle.

[0010] Optionally, the number of times the preset threshold is reached consecutively is set to three. If the threshold is not reached again after reaching it, the count is cleared and re-accumulated.

[0011] Optionally, in the error handling steps, if the duration after the water pump's water supply level is increased to the maximum level still does not reach the preset threshold, then the operation is stopped and a matching error message is triggered.

[0012] Optionally, the temperature sensor is a negative temperature coefficient thermistor, which is embedded and fixed in a uniform temperature area on the surface of the heating element. The temperature value is obtained by analog-to-digital conversion lookup table method and then subjected to sliding filtering.

[0013] Optionally, in the first operation after matching is completed, the control process is still executed according to the unmatched state until the number of cycles in which the temperature reaches the second temperature threshold reaches the preset number, after which the matching water volume level is switched.

[0014] Optionally, the first temperature threshold, the second temperature threshold, the preset threshold, and the number of consecutive times are all adjustable coefficients, set according to the characteristics of the heating element and the characteristics of the water pump.

[0015] Optionally, the matching water volume setting is stored in a non-volatile memory, and the setting is directly read to control the water pump when the device is powered on again after a power outage.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects: This invention provides an automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of a garment steamer. By monitoring the duration for which the temperature remains within a preset temperature range in real time, the method automatically determines the matching status of water volume and power. When the water pump's water supply level and heating power are mismatched, the method automatically adjusts the water supply level and re-detects until the optimal matching point is found. The system stores the matched water volume level in non-volatile memory, allowing the device to directly recall this parameter in subsequent operations without repeating the matching test. This control strategy effectively avoids overheating of the heating element and splattering caused by insufficient water supply. Simultaneously, this method also prevents insufficient water temperature and dripping problems caused by excessive water supply. This invention enables the garment steamer to output stable dry steam under different operating conditions, improving ironing effect and safety. Furthermore, the automatic matching mechanism reduces reliance on user experience, simplifies the operation process, and enhances the product's intelligence and user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of an exemplary automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of a garment steamer according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The exemplary technical solutions of the present invention will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are merely some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0019] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, an automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of a garment steamer is provided, which is applied to... Figure 1 Taking China as an example, the following specific steps will be used: S10: Control the heating element relay to operate at a preset duty cycle until the temperature detected by the temperature sensor reaches the preset preheating temperature.

[0020] Specifically, during the initial startup of the equipment, the control system first reads the real-time temperature value fed back by the temperature sensor. If this temperature value is lower than the preset preheating temperature, the control module drives the heating element relay to enter a preset duty cycle operating state.

[0021] Specifically, the system sets a fixed control cycle, during which the relay is turned on for a certain duration and then off for the remaining duration. By adjusting the ratio of the on-time to the entire control cycle, the equivalent heating power of the heating element is limited. This low-power preheating method avoids excessive thermal shock caused by instantaneous full-power heating of the heating element when it is cold. As the heating process continues, the temperature sensor continuously collects the surface temperature of the heating element and transmits it to the control module. When the detected temperature rises and reaches the preset preheating temperature, the control module immediately stops the current duty cycle control logic and enters standby or normal operating mode.

[0022] This process ensures that the heating element has sufficient heat before formal water supply, shortening the time required for the water temperature to rise to the atomization temperature. At the same time, limiting the initial heating power effectively prevents the risk of dry burning, protects the structural integrity of the heating element, and extends the equipment's lifespan.

[0023] It is important to note that the specific implementation of controlling the heating element to heat at the initial power employs analog pulse width modulation (PWM) technology. This technology regulates the heating element's power by controlling a relay. The system is set with a fixed duration as the control cycle. Within this control cycle, the relay does not remain continuously closed but intermittently switches on and off according to the target power requirement. The control module changes the heating element's operating state by precisely adjusting the relay's on-time within a control cycle. The proportion of the on-time to the entire control cycle determines the equivalent power applied to the heating element. When the on-time is short, the heating element receives less average energy, resulting in a lower equivalent power. When the on-time is long, the heating element receives more average energy, resulting in a higher equivalent power. This adjustment method allows the heating element to achieve any intermediate power output value below its rated maximum power.

[0024] For example, when the system needs to perform initial power heating, the control module first determines a fixed control cycle duration. Then, the module calculates the relay on-time required to reach the preset initial power. At the beginning of a complete control cycle, the control module drives the relay to close, allowing current to flow through the heating element and generate heat. Once the accumulated on-time reaches the calculated on-time duration, the module immediately drives the relay to open, cutting off the current until the end of the control cycle. The on-off process repeats at the beginning of the next control cycle. For instance, if the control cycle is set to a specific number of milliseconds and the initial power requirement is half of the rated power, the relay will be on for half the time and off for the other half. Through this high-frequency on-off switching, the temperature change on the surface of the heating element exhibits a smooth upward trend, avoiding the sudden temperature rise caused by full-power startup.

[0025] This invention achieves low-cost and high-precision linear power control. By employing analog pulse width modulation to control the relay, it eliminates the need for complex thyristor voltage regulation circuits or expensive frequency converters, significantly reducing hardware costs. By adjusting the equivalent power through the relay's on-time within the control cycle, it effectively suppresses the current surge during equipment startup, protecting the relay contacts and heating element resistance wire, and extending the lifespan of core components. This gentle heating method prevents the water temperature from momentarily exceeding the safety threshold due to excessive power, avoiding water splattering. Simultaneously, the precise power regulation capability allows the system to more accurately match the water pump's supply rhythm, quickly stabilizing the water temperature within the preset temperature range, improving the response speed and quality stability of steam generation, and ensuring safe and efficient operation of the equipment under various working conditions.

[0026] S20: After receiving the work instruction, control the water pump to supply water at the initial setting and control the heating element to heat at the initial power, and then gradually increase the heating power to the maximum power.

[0027] Specifically, upon receiving a work command from the user, the control system first drives the water pump to start and delivers water to the heating element at a preset initial setting. Simultaneously, the control module activates the heating element relay, causing the heating element to begin heating at its initial power. This initial power is typically set below a safe value for maximum power to prevent a rapid increase in heating element temperature before the water flow has stabilized. As the water pump continues to supply water and the heating element continues to heat, the control module gradually increases the heating element's operating power according to preset time intervals or temperature change rates. This process is achieved by gradually increasing the relay's duty cycle or directly increasing the output current until the heating element reaches its rated maximum power. This stepped heating strategy ensures that the water is heated smoothly and gradually vaporizes within the heating chamber. Examples show that this method effectively avoids violent boiling or vapor lock caused by sudden contact between cold water pipes and high-temperature surfaces. This invention achieves synchronized and coordinated increases in water temperature and power, ensuring the continuity and stability of steam generation, while reducing the risk of component damage due to thermal shock and improving the reliability of equipment operation.

[0028] S30: The duration for which the temperature value fed back by the real-time temperature sensor remains within the preset temperature range.

[0029] Specifically, the control system continuously collects real-time temperature data from temperature sensors during equipment operation. The system internally sets a preset temperature range, defined by a lower and upper temperature limit. The control module determines whether the real-time temperature data falls within this preset temperature range. If the real-time temperature data is within this range, the system starts a timer to accumulate the duration. If the real-time temperature data falls outside this range, whether above the upper limit or below the lower limit, the timer is immediately reset and starts counting again. Only when the real-time temperature data remains continuously within the preset temperature range and the accumulated duration reaches a preset threshold is the system considered to be in a stable operating condition.

[0030] For example, if the water flow is too large and the temperature remains below the lower limit, the timer cannot accumulate to the threshold, and the system will identify it as excessive water. If the water flow is too small and the temperature quickly exceeds the upper limit, the timer will also stop, and the system will identify it as insufficient water.

[0031] This invention effectively eliminates misjudgment interference caused by instantaneous temperature fluctuations through time-dimensional filtering. This method ensures that matching is only confirmed when the heating element and water supply truly reach thermal equilibrium, thereby improving the accuracy of gear matching and the stability of steam output.

[0032] It is important to note that the preset temperature range is defined by a first temperature threshold and a second temperature threshold. The first temperature threshold is set as the lower limit of the range, and the second temperature threshold is set as the upper limit. The value of the first temperature threshold must be greater than the critical temperature for atomization and dripping. The critical temperature for atomization and dripping refers to the lowest temperature limit at which water can completely vaporize on the surface of the heating element without forming liquid droplets. If the real-time temperature is lower than this critical value, the water flow cannot be fully atomized, resulting in liquid water droplets mixed in with the steam. These droplets will cause soaking and damage to clothing when they drip onto it. Setting the first temperature threshold above this critical value ensures that the steam generated by the system is always in a completely gaseous state during operation. This eliminates dripping at the source, ensuring the dryness and safety of ironing operations.

[0033] The second temperature threshold must be lower than the critical temperature for water splattering. The critical temperature for water splattering refers to the temperature limit at which the surface temperature of the heating element becomes too high, causing the water in contact with it to boil violently and produce a popping sound. If the real-time temperature exceeds this critical value, the water will vaporize explosively on the surface of the heating element. This phenomenon not only produces a piercing noise but also causes severe vibration of the equipment. Severe vibration may lead to loosening of internal pipes or failure of seals. In more serious cases, the instantaneous high-pressure steam impact may damage the structure of the heating element. Setting the second temperature threshold below this critical value ensures that the vaporization process of water on the surface of the heating element is smooth and orderly. This effectively avoids water splattering and maintains the quiet operation of the equipment and the stability of the mechanical structure.

[0034] For example, the control system monitors temperature sensor data in real time. Only when the detected temperature value simultaneously meets the conditions of being greater than a first temperature threshold and less than a second temperature threshold is the system considered to be within a valid preset temperature range. Only then is the accumulated duration recognized as valid. If the temperature is below the first temperature threshold, the system determines that preheating is insufficient or the water volume is too high, and the duration accumulation is not initiated. If the temperature is above the second temperature threshold, the system determines that there is a risk of overheating or insufficient water volume, immediately resets the accumulated duration, and triggers a protection adjustment mechanism. This invention constructs a safe steam generation window through dual temperature boundary constraints. This method ensures both the purity and dryness of the steam, while preventing equipment damage and noise pollution caused by high temperatures. Operating within this range allows the equipment to output high-quality steam, while extending the service life of the core heating components, improving the overall reliability and user satisfaction.

[0035] It's important to note that the specific implementation of controlling the water pump to supply water at its initial speed employs wave dropping control technology. This technology is specifically designed for driving AC water pumps. The voltage waveform of the AC power supply exhibits a sinusoidal change, with each complete cycle containing two half-waves. The system sets a fixed wave dropping cycle, defined as fifty half-waves in length. Within this fifty-half-wave time window, the control module does not conduct every half-wave, but rather selectively activates some half-waves. By changing the number of half-waves actually activated within a wave dropping cycle, the system can precisely adjust the average voltage applied to the water pump motor. Changes in the average voltage directly alter the water pump motor's speed. Changes in motor speed, in turn, linearly regulate the water pump's flow rate. This adjustment method achieves precise control of the water flow rate without requiring additional frequency converter hardware.

[0036] For example, when the system needs to supply water at the initial level, the control module performs pulse modulation within a time segment consisting of fifty half-waves. If a smaller initial flow rate is required, the module activates only a smaller number of half-waves out of the fifty, while the remaining half-waves are truncated or ignored. If a larger initial flow rate is required, the module increases the number of activated half-waves. For instance, activating ten half-waves corresponds to different motor speeds than activating twenty half-waves, thus resulting in different water outputs. Through this discrete half-wave counting method, the system transforms continuous analog flow regulation into digital logic control. The initial level corresponds to a preset combination of half-wave activation numbers, ensuring that the water flow is in a safe and controllable low-flow state at the moment of device startup, providing a stable foundation for subsequent temperature monitoring and level adjustment.

[0037] This invention significantly reduces the hardware cost and circuit complexity of water pump control. Employing a wave-dropping method, it achieves stepless or stepped speed regulation of AC water pumps without the need for expensive frequency converters. The fifty half-wave cycle setting ensures adjustment accuracy while effectively avoiding electromagnetic noise and mechanical vibration from the motor caused by excessively high adjustment frequencies. Flow rate is adjusted by controlling the number of half-waves, resulting in smooth and gentle water flow changes, avoiding instantaneous hydraulic impact on the heating element. This gentle start-up method protects the pump impeller and pipe seals, reducing mechanical wear. Simultaneously, precise initial flow control helps the system enter the temperature detection stage more quickly, shortening preheating waiting time, improving the equipment's response speed to user commands, and ensuring the stability and safety of the steam generation process.

[0038] In this invention, a negative temperature coefficient thermistor is specifically selected as the temperature sensor. The resistance of this sensor exhibits a non-linear decreasing trend with increasing temperature. The sensor is fitted and fixed to a location on the surface of the heating element where the temperature is uniform. This location is typically chosen at the geometric center of the heating area of ​​the heating element or at the point where the heat flow distribution is most stable. This installation method ensures that the sensor can accurately sense the core operating temperature of the heating element, avoiding measurement deviations caused by localized hot spots or edge heat dissipation. The fitting and fixing method uses thermally conductive silicone grease to fill the gaps and is combined with a mechanical clamping structure to ensure close contact between the sensor and the surface of the heating element, thereby achieving efficient heat conduction and minimal thermal response delay.

[0039] The system employs an analog-to-digital conversion lookup table method to acquire temperature values. The control module first acquires the voltage signal across the negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor via an analog-to-digital converter. This voltage signal is converted into a corresponding digital value. Subsequently, the control module retrieves the temperature value matching this digital value from a pre-stored resistance-temperature lookup table. This lookup table is based on the standard characteristic curve of the NTC thermistor and covers the entire operating temperature range of the device. This lookup method avoids complex real-time mathematical calculations, significantly improving data processing speed. After acquiring the raw temperature value, the system immediately performs a sliding filter. The sliding filter algorithm maintains a fixed-length historical data queue. Each time new data enters, the oldest data is removed, and the arithmetic mean of all data in the queue is calculated as the current final temperature value.

[0040] For example, a negative temperature coefficient thermistor is embedded in a blind hole pre-drilled in the wall of the heating element. The control chip initiates analog-to-digital conversion every fixed milliseconds. The converted digital value is directly used as an index address to access a lookup table in memory, instantly retrieving the corresponding temperature reading. The system stores this reading in a circular buffer of length eight. When the buffer is full, the system recalculates the average of the eight data points for each new sample value. This average value is the current temperature value used for logical judgment. If a sample experiences a drastic jump due to electromagnetic interference, this abnormal value is diluted by the surrounding normal data during the moving average calculation, preventing a sudden change in the final output temperature.

[0041] This invention significantly improves the accuracy, response speed, and anti-interference capability of temperature detection. The negative temperature coefficient thermistor possesses high sensitivity, enabling it to keenly detect minute changes in the temperature of the heating element. Its embedded and fixed location at a temperature uniformity eliminates spatial errors at the measurement point, accurately reflecting the overall thermal state of the heating element. The analog-to-digital conversion lookup table method greatly reduces the computational load on the microcontroller, allowing the system to quickly respond to temperature fluctuations and adjust the control strategy promptly. Sliding filtering effectively filters out high-frequency jitter caused by power supply noise, electromagnetic interference, and the sensor's own thermal noise, resulting in a smooth and stable temperature curve. This stable temperature feedback prevents malfunctions or frequent oscillations in the control system due to signal fluctuations, ensuring the stability of power regulation and water pump control, extending equipment lifespan, and guaranteeing constant steam output quality.

[0042] It is worth noting that the first temperature threshold, the second temperature threshold, the preset threshold, and the number of consecutive cycles are all configured as adjustable coefficients. These parameters are not fixed constants, but are flexibly set according to the physical characteristics of the specific hardware device. The control module reads these coefficient values ​​during the initialization or production calibration phase. The system determines the specific values ​​of each coefficient based on the characteristics of the heating element and the water pump. The heating element characteristics include physical indicators such as heating power, heat capacity, heating rate, and heat dissipation efficiency. The water pump characteristics cover performance parameters such as maximum flow rate, minimum flow rate, number of speed levels, flow linearity, and response delay time. By matching the key thresholds in the control logic with the physical properties of the hardware, the system can adapt to the differences in components of different models or batches, ensuring the universality and accuracy of the control strategy.

[0043] For example, for a high-power, rapidly heating element, its thermal inertia is small, and its temperature fluctuates drastically. In this case, the first temperature threshold should be set to a low value to allow for early intervention and prevent overheating. Simultaneously, due to the rapid heating, the difference between the second and first temperature thresholds should be appropriately reduced to shorten the judgment cycle. For water pumps with a wide flow adjustment range and good linearity, the number of consecutive adjustments can be set to a lower value, as the adjustment of the pump speed can be quickly reflected in temperature changes. Conversely, if the heating element has a large heat capacity and heats up slowly, the first and second temperature thresholds need to be increased, and the time requirement for setting the threshold should be increased to allow the system sufficient thermal response time. If there is a large difference in flow rate between pump speeds or a significant lag, the number of consecutive adjustments needs to be increased to eliminate the oscillation error caused by a single adjustment through multiple verifications. After assembly, production personnel can input the optimal coefficient combination through a dedicated debugging interface based on the measured heating element temperature curve and water pump flow curve to bring the equipment to its optimal operating state.

[0044] This invention significantly improves the compatibility and adaptability of the control system to different hardware configurations. The adjustable coefficient design allows the same control program to be applied to multiple product series without rewriting software code for each piece of hardware, greatly reducing development costs and maintenance difficulty. Setting thresholds based on the characteristics of the heating element precisely matches the thermal response behavior of the heat source, avoiding temperature control lag or overshoot caused by differences in thermal inertia, ensuring that the temperature remains stable within a safe range. Setting continuous frequency and duration thresholds based on the characteristics of the water pump optimizes the dynamic process of water supply regulation, preventing water flow oscillations or matching failures caused by mismatched pump response characteristics. This flexible parameter configuration mechanism ensures that the equipment can quickly find the thermal equilibrium point under various operating conditions, improving the stability and consistency of steam generation, extending the service life of the heating element and water pump, and ensuring a high degree of performance consistency across different production batches.

[0045] S40: If the duration does not reach the preset threshold, reduce the heating power to the initial power. After the temperature drops to the lower limit of the preset temperature range, increase the heating power and raise the water pump supply level by one level, and repeat the detection steps.

[0046] Specifically, when the system determines that the duration for which the temperature remains within the preset temperature range does not reach the preset threshold, it indicates that the current water supply gear of the water pump and the heating power have not yet reached the optimal matching state. At this time, the control module immediately performs a power reduction operation, reducing the operating power of the heating element to the initial power. The purpose of reducing the power is to slow down the heating rate of the heating element and prevent overheating during the water flow adjustment process. The system continuously monitors the data of the temperature sensor and waits for the real-time temperature to drop to the lower limit value of the preset temperature range. Once it detects that the temperature touches this lower limit, the control module immediately performs two-step linkage operations. The first step is to increase the heating power again to restore the heating ability of the heating element. The second step is to control the water pump drive mechanism to raise the current water supply gear by one gear, thereby increasing the water supply volume per unit time. After completing the above adjustments, the system enters the real-time detection process again and recalculates the new duration for which the temperature remains within the preset temperature range. Exemplarily, if the initial detection fails to meet the duration requirement due to a small water volume causing a rapid temperature rise, this logic delays the temperature rise rate by increasing the water volume, prompting the temperature curve to remain within the target range for a longer time.

[0047] Through an iterative adjustment mechanism, the present invention automatically finds the balance point between the water supply volume and the heating power. This method avoids the cumbersome process of manual trial and error, ensures that the device can quickly converge to the optimal working state, and effectively prevents the dry burning risk caused by too small water volume or the problem of insufficient steam temperature caused by too large water volume, guaranteeing the safety and effectiveness of the ironing operation.

[0048] It should be noted that the number of consecutive times reaching the preset threshold is specifically set to three. This setting constitutes the core logic for the system to determine the stability of the thermal equilibrium state. During the operation of the system, whenever it detects that the duration for which the temperature remains within the preset temperature range reaches the preset threshold, the internal counter performs an increment operation. Only when the value of the counter accumulates to three, the control module finally confirms that the current working condition has achieved a true thermal equilibrium. If the counter value does not reach three, the system will continue to maintain the monitoring state and will not perform the operation of saving the optimal gear. This mechanism requires the system to meet the duration compliance condition in three consecutive detection cycles, and any interruption will result in a failed determination.

[0049] If the preset threshold is not reached again after being reached, the counter is cleared and re-accumulated. Specifically, when the counter value is one or two, if the duration in the next detection cycle fails to reach the preset threshold, the control module immediately resets the counter value to zero. At this time, all previously accumulated valid counts become invalid. The system must start from the beginning and go through three complete compliance processes before triggering the confirmation logic again. For example, the system successfully records the duration as compliant in the first two cycles, but in the third cycle, due to water flow fluctuations causing the temperature to exceed the range, the duration fails to meet the standard. In this case, the counter immediately resets to zero, and even if the duration meets the standard in the fourth cycle, the counter only records one, rather than continuing the previous progress. This strict reset mechanism ensures the rigor of the judgment and eliminates misjudgments caused by accidental factors.

[0050] For example, the control module establishes an independent counter variable in memory. Each time the time accumulation is complete, the module first checks if the temperature is still within the range. If so, the variable is incremented by one. If the variable equals three, the current water pump speed is locked. If, while the variable is one or two, the temperature is detected to have jumped out of the range, causing the time to reset to zero, the module immediately executes a zeroing command, restoring the variable to its initial state. The system then enters a new adjustment loop, waiting for the next time-accurate event to occur. This process repeats until the check is successfully passed three times consecutively. This logical design forces the device to maintain stable performance over a relatively long time span, rather than relying solely on momentary periods of stability.

[0051] This invention significantly improves the reliability and anti-interference capability of the system's judgment. By setting a requirement of three consecutive compliances, it effectively filters out occasional temperature fluctuations caused by grid voltage fluctuations, instantaneous changes in water pressure, or sensor noise. It prevents the system from erroneously locking the water supply level before the water temperature has truly stabilized, thus preventing problems such as uneven steam drying or temperature runaway during subsequent operation. The mechanism of clearing the count and re-accumulating forces the system to continuously self-calibrate, ensuring that the optimal operating state is only recognized when the heat generated by the heating element and the water supply from the pump are deeply matched and continuously stable. This not only guarantees a high degree of consistency in the quality of the output steam but also reduces frequent adjustments due to misjudgments, lowers the wear frequency of mechanical parts, extends the service life of the entire unit, and provides users with a safer and more stable user experience.

[0052] S50: If the duration reaches the preset threshold multiple times consecutively, the current water pump supply level is determined as the matching water volume level and stored.

[0053] Specifically, when the system detects that the temperature remains within a preset temperature range for a duration that repeatedly reaches a preset threshold, it indicates that the current water supply flow rate and heating power have reached a highly stable thermal equilibrium. The control module will then determine that the currently used water pump supply setting is the optimal matching water flow rate. The system then executes a storage instruction, writing this setting information into non-volatile memory for later retrieval. Here, "repeatedly" means that the system confirms the target duration within multiple consecutive detection cycles, rather than a single, accidental fulfillment. This multi-confirmation mechanism effectively eliminates the possibility of misjudgments caused by power grid fluctuations or momentary sensor interference.

[0054] For example, if the system records the time target in three consecutive detection cycles, it locks the current gear. Once the storage is complete, the device can directly recall the gear upon the next startup or under the same operating conditions, without having to go through the tedious iterative search process again.

[0055] This invention significantly shortens the preparation time for equipment from startup to normal operation, improving the user experience. Simultaneously, by fixing the optimal matching parameters, it ensures consistent steam output during long-term use, avoiding energy loss and component wear caused by repeated adjustments, and extending the overall service life of the machine.

[0056] S60: In subsequent operations, the stored matching water volume setting is directly called to control the water pump supply.

[0057] Specifically, after the equipment completes the initial matching process and stores the matched water volume setting, when the user issues a work command to start the equipment again, the control system will directly enter the fast response mode. The control module first reads the previously saved matched water volume setting data from the non-volatile memory. The system skips the iterative search process of initial setting probing and gradually increasing the water supply setting. The control module directly drives the water pump to operate at the read matched water volume setting, so that the water supply instantly reaches the optimal state verified historically. At the same time, the heating element heats according to the preset strategy. Since the water supply has been preset to match the heating power, the water temperature can quickly enter and stabilize within the preset temperature range.

[0058] For example, if a user achieved optimal matching using a specific setting yesterday, the equipment will automatically continue using that setting when turned on today, without needing to go through the adjustment cycle of heating and cooling again. This invention greatly shortens the waiting time from equipment startup to the production of qualified steam, achieving a convenient "ready to use" experience.

[0059] This method avoids the ineffective heat energy consumption and water waste generated during repeated adjustments, significantly improving energy efficiency. Simultaneously, a stable initial water supply reduces the frequency of thermal shock to the heating element, helping to maintain the performance stability of core components and ensuring consistent steam output quality in every operation.

[0060] It is important to note that during the initial operation after successful matching, the system still executes the control process as if it were in an unmatched state. This design aims to ensure that the equipment can re-verify optimal operating parameters after long-term shutdown or changes in environmental conditions. When the user starts the equipment, the control module first reads the matched water volume setting data stored in memory, but does not directly apply that setting immediately. The system initializes the water pump to the default low setting or initial setting and starts the heating element. The entire control logic completely replicates the search process during the initial matching, including gradually increasing the water pump setting and monitoring the temperature duration. This mechanism avoids the invalidation of the original matching data due to changes in water quality, voltage fluctuations, or aging of the heating element, ensuring safety on each startup.

[0061] The system continuously monitors the number of cycles in which the temperature reaches the second temperature threshold. In the unmatched control flow, each time the water temperature rises and touches the second temperature threshold, an internal counter records a valid cycle. Only when this number of cycles accumulates to a preset number does the system determine that the current operating condition is stable and consistent with historical matching data. At this point, the control module officially switches to the previously saved matched water volume setting. If, before reaching the preset number of cycles, the system detects an abnormal temperature or is unable to maintain stability, it determines that a significant change in the environment has occurred. The system will then abandon the use of historical data and re-enter the complete automatic matching process to find a new optimal setting. For example, the preset number of cycles can be set to three, meaning that the equipment must perform normally in the first three heating cycles before the stored optimal setting is activated.

[0062] For example, after completing the previous matching round, the device saves the third gear as the optimal gear. When the user uses the device again the next day, the control module ignores this saved value and first sets the water pump to the first gear. The system monitors the process of the water temperature rising to the second temperature threshold; if it is successfully reached, the counter is incremented. Subsequently, the system performs cooling or drainage reset and begins the second heating cycle. The water pump gear may be gradually adjusted according to logic or kept in an exploratory state. When the third cycle is successfully completed and the temperature reaches the target, the counter value equals the preset number of cycles. The control module then issues a command to switch the water pump drive signal to the third gear and locks this state for subsequent stable operation. If the temperature exceeds the target in the first two cycles, the counter will be reset to zero, and the system will perform a full-range search to rematch.

[0063] This invention balances startup safety and operational efficiency, achieving adaptive environmental compensation. By employing a conservative control strategy that continues the operation from the unmatched state during the initial run, it effectively prevents the risk of overheating that might arise from directly applying old data due to overnight water temperature changes, inlet pressure fluctuations, or component performance drift. Setting a preset number of cycles as the switching condition adds a multi-layered verification mechanism, ensuring that the high-efficiency setting is only activated after multiple consecutive and stable runs. This design avoids misjudgments caused by accidental success, greatly enhancing the equipment's adaptability to complex operating environments. Furthermore, once verification is successful, it switches to the matched water volume setting, ensuring the equipment quickly enters its optimal operating state, continuously outputting high-quality steam without user intervention, extending the lifespan of core components, and improving the user experience.

[0064] It is important to note that the matched water volume setting is stored in non-volatile memory. This memory has the physical characteristic of retaining data even after power is cut off. Once the device completes the automatic matching process and determines the optimal operating parameters, the control module immediately writes the current matched water volume setting value into this non-volatile memory. The write operation is typically performed instantly after successful matching confirmation, ensuring that the latest optimal parameters are permanently saved. Even if the device subsequently experiences an unexpected power outage or the user actively turns off the power, the matched water volume setting data will not be lost.

[0065] When the equipment is powered on again after a power outage, the system initialization program first accesses the non-volatile memory. The control module directly reads the previously stored matching water volume level data. The reading process is completed in the early stages of system startup and takes very little time. After obtaining the level data, the control module does not need to re-execute the time-consuming automatic matching search process. The system directly sets the water pump drive signal to the read matching water volume level. The water pump then supplies water according to the flow rate corresponding to that level. The heating element also synchronously matches its power according to the preset flow rate. The entire startup process skips the trial adjustment phase and directly enters a stable operating state.

[0066] For example, when a user uses the device for the first time, the system performs several loop tests to determine that the fourth speed setting is the correct water flow level. The control module writes this fourth speed setting information into the flash memory chip. When the user turns off the device and unplugs the power cord, and then plugs it back in and starts the device several hours later, the control chip, after power-on reset, immediately reads the fourth speed setting data from the flash memory chip. The system skips all low-speed testing steps and directly controls the water pump to operate at the fourth speed setting. The water flow and heating power instantly reach a balance, and the device outputs stable steam in a very short time. If there is no valid data in the non-volatile memory, such as when the device is being used for the first time, the system automatically enters the default initial matching process.

[0067] This invention significantly improves device startup speed and user experience. By storing historical matching results, the device avoids the tedious process of repeatedly searching for the correct gear and verifying the temperature every time it is turned on. This greatly reduces the time users spend waiting for the device to warm up, achieving a convenient "ready to use" effect. Directly reading the gear to control the water pump reduces the time the heating element burns out under unnecessary conditions, lowering energy consumption. Simultaneously, this mechanism reduces the frequency of frequent speed adjustments to the water pump, mitigating wear on mechanical parts and extending the pump's lifespan. Non-volatile storage ensures that the device can remember its optimal operating state during long-term use, maintaining efficient and stable performance even with frequent power-on and power-off operations, enhancing the product's intelligence and reliability.

[0068] In one embodiment, an error handling step is also included: if the duration of operation after the water pump's water supply level is increased to the maximum level still does not reach the preset threshold, then the operation is stopped and a matching error message is triggered.

[0069] Specifically, the system also includes error handling procedures to handle extreme operating conditions. This procedure is initiated when the automatic matching process fails to converge. When the control system detects that the water pump's water supply level has been increased to the maximum, if the temperature remains within the preset temperature range for a duration that does not reach the preset threshold, the system will determine that the current state is abnormal. The control module will then issue a command to stop the equipment. At the same time, the system triggers a matching error message to inform the user. This logic constitutes the safety baseline for equipment operation, preventing the system from forcibly continuing to operate when thermal equilibrium cannot be established.

[0070] For example, when adjusting the pump speed, the system monitors the current pump speed value in real time. Once this value reaches the preset maximum speed limit, the system enters an observation period. During the observation period, if the duration counter fails to accumulate to the preset threshold, it indicates that even at maximum water flow, the heat generated by the heating element is still excessive, or that there is a serious malfunction in the water supply system resulting in insufficient actual water volume. At this point, the control logic will no longer attempt to further increase the water volume, as no higher speed is available. The system immediately cuts off the power to the heating element and shuts down the pump, terminating the current heating and water supply cycle. Simultaneously, the human-machine interface illuminates a specific fault indicator light or displays an error code, clearly indicating to the user that a matching error has occurred. The user needs to check the water supply, the inlet filter, or contact after-sales service to troubleshoot the problem before restarting the equipment.

[0071] This invention effectively prevents safety hazards caused by uncontrolled operation of the equipment. Without this step, the system might continue heating at full power even when the maximum water flow is insufficient to cool the water, causing the heating element temperature to rise sharply and exceed the critical temperature for steam explosion. This would trigger a violent steam explosion, generate loud noise, and even damage the heating element structure. By stopping operation in time, the system prevents core components from burning out due to overheating, protecting internal pipes and seals. Triggering a matching error prompt guides users to promptly identify and resolve insufficient water supply or hardware malfunctions, preventing users from repeatedly attempting to start the equipment without their knowledge, which could cause further damage. This protection mechanism significantly improves the safety and reliability of the product, ensuring that the equipment remains under control under any abnormal operating conditions and protecting the personal and property safety of users.

[0072] Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of a garment steamer, characterized in that, include: The heating element relay is controlled to operate at a preset duty cycle until the temperature detected by the temperature sensor reaches the preset preheating temperature. Upon receiving the work instruction, the water pump is controlled to supply water at the initial setting, and the heating element is controlled to heat at the initial power, and then the heating power is gradually increased to the maximum power. The duration for which the temperature value fed back by the real-time temperature sensor remains within the preset temperature range; If the duration does not reach the preset threshold, the heating power is reduced to the initial power. After the temperature drops to the lower limit of the preset temperature range, the heating power is increased and the water pump supply level is increased by one level. The detection steps are repeated. If the duration reaches the preset threshold multiple times consecutively, the current water pump supply level is determined as the matching water volume level and stored. During operation, the stored matching water volume level is directly called to control the water pump supply.

2. The automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of the garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The preset temperature range is composed of a first temperature threshold and a second temperature threshold. The first temperature threshold is greater than the critical temperature for atomized dripping water, and the second temperature threshold is less than the critical temperature for blasting water.

3. The automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of the garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water pump is controlled to supply water at the initial speed by using a wave dropping method to control the AC water pump. The wave dropping cycle is fifty half waves, and the water supply flow is adjusted by controlling the number of half waves that are turned on.

4. The automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of the garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating element is controlled by an initial power source, specifically by using a simulated pulse width modulation method to control a relay with a fixed duration as the control cycle. The equivalent power is adjusted by the relay's on-time within the control cycle.

5. The automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of the garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of times the preset threshold is reached consecutively is set to three. If the threshold is not reached again after reaching it, the count is cleared and re-accumulated.

6. The automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of the garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes error handling steps. If the duration of operation after the water pump is upgraded to the maximum level still does not reach the preset threshold, the pump will stop working and trigger a matching error message.

7. The automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of the garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature sensor is a negative temperature coefficient thermistor, which is embedded and fixed in a uniform temperature area on the surface of the heating element. The temperature value is obtained by analog-to-digital conversion lookup table method and then subjected to sliding filtering.

8. The automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of the garment steamer according to claim 2, characterized in that, In the first operation after matching is completed, the control process is still executed according to the unmatched state until the number of cycles that the temperature reaches the second temperature threshold reaches the preset number, and then the system switches to the matching water volume setting.

9. The automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of the garment steamer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first temperature threshold, the second temperature threshold, the preset threshold, and the number of consecutive times are all adjustable coefficients, set according to the characteristics of the heating element and the characteristics of the water pump.

10. The automatic control method for the water pump and heating element of the garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The matching water volume setting is stored in a non-volatile memory. When the device is powered off and then powered on again, the setting is directly read to control the water pump.

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