Water heater control method and device, water heater and storage medium

Abstract

The application belongs to the technical field of household appliances, and particularly relates to a water heater control method and device, a water heater and a storage medium. A temperature sensor is arranged in a water tank of the water heater, and a plurality of temperature values recently monitored by the temperature sensor are acquired; whether the hot water outlet flow of the water heater is zero is determined according to the plurality of temperature values; and the water heater is controlled to heat according to the determination result. In the scheme, since the temperature sensor is arranged in the water tank and has a small volume, the water heater appearance can be improved while the hot water outlet condition of the water heater is accurately monitored.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application belongs to the technical field of household appliances, and specifically relates to a water heater control method, device, water heater and storage medium. Background Art

[0002] A water heater is a device that converts cold water into hot water within a certain period of time and is an essential household appliance in daily life. In practical applications, to ensure that users have sufficient hot water, the water output of the water heater can be monitored to control the heating power of the water heater.

[0003] Typically, in order to monitor the water outlet condition of the water heater, a flow sensor is provided at the water inlet of the water tank of the water heater. The inflowing water flow is monitored by the flow sensor, and the water outlet condition of the water heater is then obtained based on the inflowing water flow.

[0004] However, currently common flow sensors are generally physical impeller devices driven by water flow. Such physical impeller devices have the problem of being large in size, which seriously affects the appearance of the water heater. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems in the prior art, that is, to accurately monitor the water outlet status of the water heater without affecting the appearance of the water heater, the present application provides a water heater control method, device, water heater and storage medium.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present application provides a water heater control method, which is applied to a water heater, wherein a temperature sensor is provided in a water tank of the water heater. The water heater control method includes:

[0007] Get multiple temperature values ​​recently monitored by the temperature sensor;

[0008] determining whether the hot water outlet flow of the water heater is zero according to multiple temperature values;

[0009] According to the determination result, the water heater is controlled to perform heating.

[0010] In one feasible implementation, determining whether the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero based on multiple temperature values ​​includes:

[0011] Determining, based on the plurality of temperature values, that a temperature continuous drop value is greater than or equal to a first preset value;

[0012] Determining that the time difference between each drop of the preset temperature value is less than or equal to a first preset time length;

[0013] Make sure the hot water flow rate of the water heater is not zero.

[0014] In one feasible implementation, determining whether the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero based on multiple temperature values ​​includes:

[0015] According to the plurality of temperature values, it is determined that the temperature decreases by a value greater than or equal to a second preset value within a second preset time length;

[0016] It is determined that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is not zero.

[0017] In an implementable embodiment, according to the plurality of temperature values, it is determined whether the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero, comprising:

[0018] According to the plurality of temperature values, it is determined that the temperature decreases by a value less than or equal to a third preset value within a third preset time length;

[0019] It is determined that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero.

[0020] In an implementable embodiment, according to the plurality of temperature values, it is determined whether the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero, comprising:

[0021] According to the plurality of temperature values, it is determined that the temperature increases by a value greater than or equal to a fourth preset value;

[0022] It is determined that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero.

[0023] In an implementable embodiment, according to the determination result, the water heater is controlled to heat, comprising:

[0024] If the determination result is that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is not zero, then according to the temperature value at the current time and the set temperature, a target heating power of the water heater is determined;

[0025] Based on the target heating power, the water heater is controlled to heat.

[0026] In an implementable embodiment, according to the temperature value at the current time and the set temperature, the target heating power of the water heater is determined, comprising:

[0027] Different temperature ranges are determined according to the set temperature;

[0028] According to the temperature range to which the temperature value at the current time belongs, the target heating power of the water heater is determined, wherein different temperature ranges correspond to different heating powers.

[0029] According to the temperature range to which the temperature value at the current time belongs, the target heating power of the water heater is determined, comprising:

[0030] According to the plurality of temperature values, a temperature change trend is determined;

[0031] Based on the temperature change trend, according to the temperature range to which the temperature value at the current time belongs, the target heating power of the water heater is determined.

[0032] In a second aspect, the present application provides a water heater control device, which is applied to a water heater, wherein a temperature sensor is provided in a water tank of the water heater, and the water heater control device comprises:

[0033] An acquisition module is used to obtain multiple temperature values ​​recently monitored by the temperature sensor;

[0034] a determination module, for determining whether the hot water outlet flow of the water heater is zero based on a plurality of temperature values;

[0035] The processing module is used to control the water heater to heat the water according to the determination result.

[0036] In a third aspect, the present application provides a water heater control device, which is applied to a water heater, wherein a temperature sensor is provided in a water tank of the water heater, and the hot water quantity determination device includes:

[0037] Processor, memory;

[0038] The memory stores a computer program;

[0039] When the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory, the water heater control method as described in the first aspect is implemented.

[0040] In a fourth aspect, the present application provides a water heater, wherein a temperature sensor is provided in a water tank of the water heater, and the water heater further comprises a water heater control device as described in the second aspect or the third aspect.

[0041] In a fifth aspect, the present application provides a computer-readable storage medium, in which computer-executable instructions are stored. When the computer-executable instructions are executed by a processor, they are used to implement the water heater control method as described in the first aspect.

[0042] In a sixth aspect, the present application provides a program product, including a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the water heater control method as described in the first aspect.

[0043] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in this application, a temperature sensor is installed within the water tank of the water heater to obtain multiple temperature values ​​recently monitored by the temperature sensor; based on the multiple temperature values, a determination is made as to whether the hot water flow rate of the water heater is zero; and based on the determination result, the water heater is controlled to heat. In this solution, because the temperature sensor is installed within the water tank and is relatively small, it can accurately monitor the water flow condition of the water heater while improving the appearance of the water heater. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] The preferred embodiments of the present application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] Figure 1This is a scene example diagram of a water heater control method provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0046] Figure 2 This is a flow chart of a water heater control method provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0047] Figure 3 This is a schematic structural diagram of a water heater provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0048] Figure 4 is a flow chart of a water heater control method provided by another embodiment of the present application;

[0049] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a water heater control method provided by another embodiment of the present application;

[0050] Figure 6 is a flow chart of a water heater control method provided by another embodiment of the present application;

[0051] Figure 7 This is a schematic structural diagram of a water heater control device provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0052] Figure 8 is a structural diagram of a water heater control device provided by another embodiment of the present application;

[0053] Figure 9 This is a schematic structural diagram of a water heater provided in another embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] First, those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely used to explain the technical principles of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Those skilled in the art may adjust them as needed to suit specific applications.

[0055] The terms used in the embodiments of the present application are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present application. The singular forms "a" and "the" used in the embodiments of the present application are also intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0056] It should be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein is merely a description of the relationship between associated objects, indicating that three possible relationships exist. For example, A and / or B can be expressed as: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone. Furthermore, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the associated objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0057] As used herein, the words "if" and "if" may be interpreted as "at the time of" or "when" or "in response to determining" or "in response to detecting," depending on the context. Similarly, the phrases "if it is determined" or "if (stated condition or event) is detected" may be interpreted as "when it is determined" or "in response to the determination" or "when detecting (stated condition or event)" or "in response to detecting (stated condition or event)," depending on the context.

[0058] It should also be noted that the terms "include," "comprises," or any other variations thereof are intended to encompass non-exclusive inclusion, such that a product or system comprising a series of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not explicitly listed, or elements inherent to such product or system. In the absence of further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprises a..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the product or system comprising the element.

[0059] A water heater is a common household appliance that heats cold water to hot water over a specific period of time. Storage-type water heaters can quickly initiate heating upon sensing water usage, continuously heating the water in the tank during the dispensing process. Therefore, to meet user needs, some water heaters require accurate monitoring of water dispensing conditions to control the heating power.

[0060] In actual applications, as the water heater is discharging water, cold water is also fed into the water tank through the water inlet to ensure sufficient water in the tank. Therefore, to monitor the water output of the water heater, a flow sensor is usually installed at the water inlet of the water heater tank. This flow sensor monitors the flow rate of cold water entering the tank, and the water output status of the water heater is then determined based on the water flow rate.

[0061] However, currently available flow sensors are typically physical impeller-type devices driven by water flow. These physical impeller-type devices are bulky, significantly affecting the appearance of the water heater. Furthermore, physical impeller-type devices are relatively expensive, which also increases the cost of the water heater.

[0062] In light of this, the present application provides a water heater control method, device, water heater, and storage medium. By installing a temperature sensor within the water heater's water tank, the current hot water output status of the water heater is determined based on the temperature changes detected by the temperature sensor. The water heater is then controlled to heat the water accordingly. Because the temperature sensor is located within the water tank, it is compact and inexpensive, allowing the water heater's appearance to be improved while also monitoring its output status and reducing its cost.

[0063] The water heater control method provided in the application can be applied to a water tank type water heater, i.e., a storage type water heater. The type of the storage type water heater is not limited in the embodiments of the application, for example, a gas water heater, an electric water heater, a solar water heater, an air energy water heater, and the like.

[0064] Figure 1 is a scenario example diagram of the water heating amount determination method provided in an embodiment of the application. The scenario includes a water heater control device 100, a water heater 200, and a temperature sensor 201.

[0065] The water heater control device 100 is applied to the water heater 200, and the temperature sensor 201 is installed in a water tank of the water heater 200 and used to measure the temperature in the water tank of the water heater 200.

[0066] It should be noted that the specific installation position of the temperature sensor 201 in the water tank is not limited in the embodiments of the application, for example, the temperature sensor 201 can be installed at any one of the top, middle, and bottom of the water heater 200.

[0067] It should be understood that the embodiments of the application show one temperature sensor, but are not limited thereto. In some embodiments, since the water temperature is different at different positions in the water tank, a plurality of temperature sensors can be arranged to detect the water temperature at different positions, and then the water temperature in the water tank is calculated according to the temperatures detected by the plurality of temperature sensors, so that a more accurate temperature value is obtained.

[0068] In actual application, the type of the water heater control device 100 is also not limited in the embodiments of the application. On the one hand, the water heater control device 100 can be a control module embedded in or connected to the water heater 200, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a microcontroller unit (MCU), a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or the like in combination of one or more.

[0069] On the other hand, the water heater control device 100 can be a remote control device, for example, a control device in a mobile phone, a computer, a tablet, and the like.

[0070] In the scheme, the temperature sensor 201 sends the plurality of recently monitored temperature values to the water heater control device 100, and the water heater control device 100 determines whether the hot water outflow rate of the water heater 200 is zero according to the plurality of temperature values.

[0071] Further, the water heater control device 100 controls the water heater 200 to heat according to the determination result.

[0072] Specifically, if the hot water outflow rate is determined to be zero, it means that the water heater 200 is not currently discharging water, and at this time, the water in the water tank is not heated. If the hot water outflow rate is determined to be non-zero, it means that the water heater 200 is currently discharging water, and the water heater 200 needs to be controlled to heat.

[0073] The following specific embodiments are used to describe in detail the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application and how the technical solutions of the present application solve the above-mentioned technical problems. The following specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and for the same or similar concepts or processes, they may not be described in detail in some embodiments. The embodiments of the present application will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0074] Figure 2 This is a flow chart of a water heater control method provided by an embodiment of the present application. The water heater control method is applied to a water heater, wherein a temperature sensor is provided in the water tank of the water heater. It should be understood that the execution subject of the embodiment of the present application is the above-mentioned water heater control device, such as Figure 2 As shown, the water heater control method includes the following steps:

[0075] S201: Acquire multiple temperature values ​​recently monitored by a temperature sensor.

[0076] For easier understanding, please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a water heater provided in one embodiment of the present application. Figure 3 As shown, the water heater 200 includes: a temperature sensor 201 , a water tank 202 , an external water inlet 203 , an external water outlet 204 , an internal water inlet 205 and an internal water outlet 206 .

[0077] The temperature sensor 201 is disposed in the water tank 201. The inner water inlet 205 and the outer water inlet 203 are used to input cold water into the water tank, and the outer water outlet 204 and the inner water outlet 206 are used to output hot water or cold water from the water tank.

[0078] It should be noted that the specific location of the temperature sensor 201 in the water tank is not specifically limited in the embodiment of the present application. For example, it can be installed on the top of the water tank 202, for example, it can be set near the inner water inlet 205 and the inner water outlet 206, for measuring the temperature near the inner water inlet 205 and the temperature near the inner water outlet 206 respectively. Figure 3 The temperature sensor 201 is installed on the right wall of the middle part of the water tank 202 as an example, but the present application is not limited to this.

[0079] After the water heater is powered on, the temperature sensor 201 begins detecting the temperature value in the water tank 202 and reports the temperature value to the water heater control device. The present embodiment does not specifically limit the number of temperature values ​​detected by the temperature sensor. On the one hand, the temperature sensor can detect the temperature value corresponding to each time point at a preset time interval and then report the temperature value corresponding to each time point to the water heater control device. For example, if the preset time interval is 2 seconds, the temperature is detected every 2 seconds, and each time point and its corresponding temperature value are reported to the water heater control device.

[0080] Alternatively, a temperature sensor can be used to monitor the temperature inside the water tank in real time. Each time the temperature changes (increases or decreases) by a preset value, the time and value of the current temperature measurement are reported. For example, if the preset temperature is 1°C, and the water heater is powered on and the temperature continues to decrease or increase, the time and value of each temperature measurement are reported for each 1°C decrease or increase.

[0081] On the other hand, the temperature sensor can report the event to the water heater control device under the above two conditions, and the water heater control device determines whether to obtain the current temperature value based on the event.

[0082] In actual use, when a user uses hot water, hot water will be output from the inner water outlet 206 and flow out of the water tank 202 through the outer water outlet 204. At this time, in order to ensure that there is sufficient hot water in the water tank 202, cold water will be input from the outer water inlet 203 and input into the water tank 202 through the inner water inlet 205. At this time, the water temperature in the water tank will change according to the user's usage. Based on this, it is possible to accurately determine whether cold water is currently being input based on the water temperature change, and further determine whether the water heater 200 is currently having hot water output and whether the hot water flow rate is zero. The following is a detailed description of this solution in conjunction with step S202:

[0083] S202: Determine whether the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero based on the multiple temperature values.

[0084] In some embodiments, if multiple temperature values ​​detected by the temperature sensor 201 drop continuously within a period of time after power-on, it indicates that cold water is input into the water tank, and further indicates that hot water is currently output, that is, the hot water outlet flow rate is not zero.

[0085] In other embodiments, if multiple temperature values ​​detected by the temperature sensor 201 rise continuously or do not change within a period of time after power-on, it means that the water heater is not discharging water, that is, the hot water outlet flow rate is zero.

[0086] S203: Control the water heater to heat the water according to the determination result.

[0087] Specifically, if it is determined that the hot water outlet flow rate is not zero, the water in the water tank needs to be heated to ensure that the hot water output by the water heater meets the user's needs. If it is determined that the hot water outlet flow rate is zero, the water in the water tank does not need to be heated to save heating costs.

[0088] In an embodiment of the present application, a temperature sensor is installed within the water tank of the water heater to obtain multiple temperature values ​​recently monitored by the temperature sensor; based on the multiple temperature values, a determination is made as to whether the hot water flow rate of the water heater is zero; and based on the determination result, the water heater is controlled to heat. In this solution, the water output condition of the water heater is monitored by the temperature changes detected by the temperature sensor within the water tank, thereby controlling the heating power of the water heater. Because the temperature sensor is installed within the water tank and is relatively small, it can monitor the water output condition of the water heater while improving the appearance of the water heater.

[0089] In practical applications, different temperature detection methods correspond to different solutions for determining the hot water outlet flow rate. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The above-mentioned step S202, determining whether the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero according to multiple temperature values, is described in more detail.

[0090] Figure 4 FIG. 1 is a flow chart of a water heater control method provided by another embodiment of the present application. Figure 4 As shown, the water heater control method provided in the embodiment of the present application includes the following steps:

[0091] S301: Acquire multiple temperature values ​​recently monitored by a temperature sensor.

[0092] In this step, after the water heater is powered on, the temperature sensor starts to detect the temperature value in the water tank and reports the temperature value to the water heater control device. Specifically, the temperature sensor detects the temperature change in the water tank in real time, and reports the current time and the temperature value corresponding to the current time every time the temperature value drops by a preset temperature value. Exemplarily, taking the preset temperature value of 1°C as an example, the present solution is: every time the temperature drops by 1°C, the current temperature value and the time corresponding to the current temperature value are determined. For example, taking the temperature of 60°C at the initial moment as an example, when the temperature sensor detects the temperature value as 60°C, 59°C, 58°C, 57°C..., the above-mentioned multiple temperature values ​​and the time corresponding to each temperature value are obtained, and the multiple temperature values ​​and the time corresponding to each temperature value are sent to the water heater control device.

[0093] S302: Determine, based on multiple temperature values, whether a temperature continuous drop value is greater than or equal to a first preset value, and whether a time difference between each drop of the preset temperature value is less than or equal to a first preset duration.

[0094] S303, determining that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is not zero.

[0095] It should be understood that the embodiments of the present application do not make specific limitations on the first preset value and the size of the time difference. For example, when the first preset value is 3℃ and the time difference is 5 minutes, if the value of the continuous decrease of the plurality of temperature values is greater than or equal to 3℃, and the time difference between each decrease of 1℃ is greater than or equal to 5 minutes, it is determined that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is not zero. Still taking the above example, if the time difference between 60℃ and 59℃, the time difference between 59℃ and 58℃, and the time difference between 58℃ and 57℃ are all less than or equal to 5 minutes, it is determined that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is not zero.

[0096] Alternatively, according to steps S304-S305, it is determined that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero:

[0097] S304, according to the plurality of temperature values, determining that the temperature value of the temperature decrease within the third preset time length is less than the third preset value.

[0098] S305, determining that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero.

[0099] It should be noted that the embodiments of the present application do not make specific limitations on the size of the third preset time length and the size of the third preset value. For example, when the third preset time length is 5 minutes and the size of the third preset value is 1℃, if the temperature value detected within 5 minutes from the last temperature detection time decreases by less than 1℃, it is determined that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero. Still taking the above example, after detecting 60℃, the temperature value has not decreased to 59℃ after five minutes, it is determined that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero.

[0100] S306, according to the determination result, controlling the water heater to heat.

[0101] It should be noted that step S306 is similar to step S203 in the embodiment shown in Figure 2 , and specific reference can be made to the above, which will not be repeated here.

[0102] In an embodiment of the present application, multiple temperature values ​​recently monitored by a temperature sensor are obtained. Based on the multiple temperature values, it is determined that the continuous temperature drop is greater than or equal to a first preset value, and the time difference between each temperature drop is less than or equal to a first preset duration, and the hot water flow rate of the water heater is determined to be non-zero. Based on the multiple temperature values, it is determined that the temperature drop within a third preset duration is less than a third preset value, and the hot water flow rate of the water heater is determined to be zero. Based on the determination result, the water heater is controlled to heat. By monitoring the multiple temperature values ​​and the changing trends of the multiple temperature values, the current hot water output situation can be accurately determined, thereby ensuring that the water heater is controlled to heat in a timely and accurate manner during use, which helps to improve the user experience.

[0103] Figure 5 FIG. 1 is a flow chart of a water heater control method provided by another embodiment of the present application. Figure 5 As shown, the water heater control method provided in the embodiment of the present application includes the following steps:

[0104] S311. Acquire multiple temperature values ​​recently monitored by the temperature sensor.

[0105] In this step, the temperature value that drops at each time interval can be detected according to the second preset time interval. It should be noted that the embodiment of the present application does not specifically limit the length of the second preset time interval. For example, the second preset time interval can be 2 seconds, that is, after the water heater is powered on, the temperature is detected every 2 seconds.

[0106] S312: Determine, based on multiple temperature values, whether a temperature drop within a second preset time period is greater than or equal to a second preset value.

[0107] S313: Determine that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is not zero.

[0108] It should be noted that the embodiment of the present application does not specifically limit the size of the second preset value. For example, the second preset value may be 2°C. Using the above example again, if the temperature of the water heater is 60°C when it is powered on, and the temperature detected 2 seconds after powering on is 58°C, that is, the temperature drops by 2°C within 2 seconds, then it is determined that the hot water flow rate of the water heater is not zero.

[0109] Alternatively, the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater can be determined to be zero according to the following steps S314 to S315:

[0110] S314: Determine, based on the multiple temperature values, that the temperature value at which the temperature recovers is greater than or equal to a fourth preset value.

[0111] S315: Determine that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero.

[0112] It should be noted that the fourth preset value is not limited in the embodiments of the present application, and the fourth preset value can be 1℃ for example. That is, when it is detected that the temperature value does not continuously decrease and the temperature value at any time is increased by 1℃ relative to the temperature value at the time of the last temperature detection, it is indicated that the user can have stopped using, and at this time, the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is determined to be zero.

[0113] S316, controlling the water heater to heat according to the determination result.

[0114] It should be noted that step S316 is similar to step S203 in the embodiment shown in Figure 2 The specific process can be referred to the above, and will not be described here.

[0115] In the embodiments of the present application, a plurality of temperature values recently monitored by the temperature sensor are acquired, and according to the plurality of temperature values, it is determined that the temperature decrease value in the second preset time length is greater than or equal to the second preset value, and the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is determined to be non-zero. According to the plurality of temperature values, it is determined that the temperature increase value is greater than or equal to the fourth preset value, and the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is determined to be zero. According to the determination result, the water heater is controlled to heat. Through the plurality of monitored temperature values and the change trend of the plurality of temperature values, the current hot water outlet condition can be accurately determined, so as to ensure that the water heater is controlled to heat in time and accurately during use, which helps to improve the user experience.

[0116] In some embodiments, when it is determined that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is non-zero, it is indicated that the water heater is currently outputting water, and therefore, the water heater needs to be controlled to heat, so as to ensure that the water heater can continuously output hot water. The following will be described in combination with Figure 6 , and Figure 3 The step S203 and the scheme of controlling the water heater to heat according to the determination result will be described in detail based on the embodiment shown in

[0117] S401, acquiring a plurality of temperature values recently monitored by a temperature sensor.

[0118] S402, determining whether the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero according to the plurality of temperature values.

[0119] It should be noted that S401-S402 are not limited to the embodiments shown in Figure 2 , Figure 4 The scheme provided in the embodiments shown in and will be described in detail.

[0120] S403, if the determination result is that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is non-zero, then the target heating power of the water heater is determined according to the temperature value at the current time and the set temperature.

[0121] The set temperature is the target temperature set by the user. It should be noted that since the set temperature may be different each time the user uses the water heater, the target heating power corresponding to different set temperatures is also different. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the target heating power of the water heater based on the current set temperature range. The following describes in detail the method for determining the target heating power based on the set temperature in conjunction with steps S4031 to S4032:

[0122] S4031. Determine different temperature ranges according to the set temperature.

[0123] In actual applications, when users set the target temperature of the water heater, there are two situations:

[0124] Case 1: The set temperature is the maximum allowable set temperature of the water heater;

[0125] Case 2: The set temperature is lower than the maximum allowable set temperature of the water heater.

[0126] In this step, when the set temperature is the maximum allowable set temperature of the water heater (i.e., Case 1), the temperature difference between the water heater tank temperature and the set temperature must not exceed a preset value. It should be understood that the first preset value varies from water heater to water heater and can be set based on actual needs. For example, the first preset value may be 5°C. Specifically, when the set temperature is the maximum allowable set temperature of the water heater, the temperature value in the water tank must be less than or equal to the sum of the set temperature and the first preset value.

[0127] In this step, when the set temperature is less than the maximum allowable set temperature of the water heater (i.e., situation 2), the temperature value in the water tank of the water heater should be ensured not to be greater than the set temperature. For example, in situation 2, the range of the temperature value in the water tank is: less than or equal to the set temperature.

[0128] S4032. Determine the target heating power of the water heater according to the temperature range to which the current temperature value belongs, and control the water heater to perform heating based on the target heating power.

[0129] Among them, different temperature ranges correspond to different heating powers.

[0130] In some embodiments, due to different user habits during the use of the water heater, the hot water outflow rate or cold water inflow rate of the water heater may be different, resulting in different temperatures in the water tank of the water heater, thereby leading to a poor user experience. Therefore, the heating temperature of the water heater can be controlled in real time based on the detected temperature value, so that the water temperature in the water heater remains relatively constant, thereby improving the user experience. Based on this, the above step S4032 may include the following steps:

[0131] (1) Determine the temperature change trend based on multiple temperature values.

[0132] (2) Based on the temperature change trend, the target heating power of the water heater is determined according to the temperature range to which the current temperature value belongs.

[0133] For ease of understanding, the following describes this solution in detail based on the above different situations (Situation 1 and Situation 2):

[0134] On the one hand, when the set temperature is the maximum allowable set temperature of the water heater (case 1), after determining that the hot water outlet flow of the water heater is not zero, continue to obtain multiple temperature values ​​in the water tank of the water heater. If the current temperature is less than the sum of the set temperature and the first preset value, the target heating power corresponding to the current moment is determined to be the first heating power, wherein the second preset value is less than the first preset value, and the first heating power is the maximum power of the water heater. For example, taking the maximum set temperature of 70°C, the first preset value of 5°C, the first heating power of 3KW, and the second preset value of 3°C as an example, if the water temperature at the current moment is less than 73°C, the target heating power at the current moment is determined to be the maximum heating power of the water heater of 3KW, and the water heater is controlled to heat at a power of 3KW.

[0135] Accordingly, if the current temperature is greater than or equal to the sum of the set temperature and the first preset value, the target heating power corresponding to the current moment is determined to be the second preset power, where the second heating power is less than the first heating power. For example, if the second heating power is 2 kW and the current temperature is greater than or equal to 73°C, the target heating power is determined to be 2 kW, and the water heater is controlled to heat at 2 kW.

[0136] Furthermore, after controlling the water heater to heat at 2 kW, if the detected temperature value continues to rise, when the temperature value is greater than or equal to the sum of the set temperature and the first preset value, heating is performed at a third heating power. The third heating power is less than the second heating power. For example, the third heating power may be 0 kW, i.e., heating is stopped. For example, when the temperature value is greater than or equal to 75°C, the water heater is controlled to stop heating or reduce the power for heating.

[0137] It should be noted that when the heating power is reduced or the heating is stopped, if the user is still using it, cold water will continue to be input, and the detected temperature value may continue to decrease. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the heating power to ensure that the outlet water temperature meets the user's needs. Specifically, when the detected temperature value is less than or equal to the sum of the set temperature and the second preset value, the second heating power is restored for heating. For example, still taking the above example, if the detected temperature value is less than or equal to 73°C, the water heater is controlled to heat at a power of 2KW.

[0138] Furthermore, after resuming heating at the second heating power, if the user's water consumption is high or the cold water inflow is high, the temperature in the water tank may continue to drop when heating at the second heating power. Therefore, to ensure that the outlet water temperature meets user needs, a higher heating power is required for heating. Specifically, when the detected temperature is less than or equal to the set temperature, heating is performed at the first power. Still using the above example, when the detected temperature is less than or equal to 70°C, the water heater is controlled to heat at a power of 3KW.

[0139] On the other hand, when the set temperature is less than the maximum allowable set temperature of the water heater (case 2), after determining that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is not zero, continue to obtain multiple temperature values ​​in the water tank of the water heater. If the current temperature is less than the difference between the set temperature and the third preset value, the target heating power corresponding to the current moment is determined to be the first heating power, wherein the first heating power is the maximum power of the water heater. It should be understood that the embodiment of the present application does not specifically limit the size of the third preset value. For example, taking the maximum set temperature of 70°C, the third preset value of 1°C, and the first heating power of 3KW as an example, if the water temperature at the current moment is less than 69°C, the target heating power at the current moment is determined to be the maximum heating power of the water heater, 3KW, and the water heater is controlled to heat with a power of 3KW.

[0140] Accordingly, if the current temperature is greater than or equal to the difference between the set temperature and the third preset value, the target heating power corresponding to the current moment is determined to be the second preset power, where the second heating power is less than the first heating power. For example, if the second heating power is 2 kW, and the current temperature is greater than or equal to 69°C, the target heating power is determined to be 2 kW, and the water heater is controlled to heat at 2 kW.

[0141] Furthermore, after the water heater is controlled to heat at a power of 2 kW, if the temperature in the water tank continues to rise and is greater than or equal to the set temperature, heating is performed at a third power. The third heating power is less than the second heating power and can be 0 kW, i.e., heating is stopped.

[0142] It should be noted that when the heating power is reduced or heating is stopped, if the user is still using it, cold water will continue to be input, and the detected temperature value may continue to decrease. When the detected temperature value is less than or equal to the difference between the set temperature and the fourth preset value, the second heating power is restored for heating. The fourth preset value is greater than the third preset value. For example, taking the fourth preset value as 2°C, if the detected temperature value is less than or equal to 68°C, the water heater is controlled to heat at a power of 2KW.

[0143] Furthermore, after the second heating power is restored for heating, if the user's water consumption at this time is large, or the cold water inflow is large, the temperature in the water tank may continue to drop when heating with the second heating power. Therefore, a larger heating power is required for heating to ensure that the hot water flowing out meets the user's needs. Specifically, when the detected temperature is less than or equal to the difference between the set temperature and the fifth preset value, heating is performed at the first power. Among them, the fifth preset value is greater than the fourth preset value. Still taking the above as an example, when the fifth preset value is 3°C, when the detected temperature is less than or equal to 67°C, the water heater is controlled to heat at a power of 3KW.

[0144] In this embodiment, multiple temperature values ​​recently monitored by a temperature sensor are obtained; based on these multiple temperature values, a determination is made as to whether the hot water flow rate of the water heater is zero; if the determination result shows that the hot water flow rate of the water heater is not zero, a target heating power for the water heater is determined based on the current temperature value and the set temperature, and the water heater is controlled to heat based on the target heating power. Because the heating power of the water heater can be controlled in real time based on temperature changes in the water heater tank, the water temperature in the water heater can be ensured to meet user needs, ultimately improving the user experience.

[0145] Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the structure of a water heater control device provided by an embodiment of the present application. The water heater control device 500 is applied to a water heater, and a temperature sensor is provided in the water tank of the water heater. Figure 7 As shown, the water heater control device 500 provided in the embodiment of the present application includes:

[0146] An acquisition module 501 is used to acquire multiple temperature values ​​recently monitored by a temperature sensor;

[0147] A determination module 502 is configured to determine whether the hot water outlet flow of the water heater is zero based on the multiple temperature values;

[0148] The processing module 503 is used to control the water heater to perform heating according to the determination result.

[0149] It can be understood that the water heater control device provided in this embodiment can be used to execute the technical solution of any of the above method embodiments, and its implementation principles and technical effects are similar. Please refer to the above method embodiments for details, which will not be repeated here.

[0150] In a feasible embodiment, the determination module 502 can be specifically used to: determine, based on multiple temperature values, that the continuous temperature drop value is greater than or equal to a first preset value; determine that the time difference for each drop in the preset temperature value is less than or equal to a first preset duration; and determine that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is not zero.

[0151] In an implementation, the determining module 502 can be specifically configured to: determine, according to the plurality of temperature values, that the temperature decreases by a temperature value greater than or equal to a second preset value within a second preset time length; and determine that the hot water outlet flow of the water heater is not zero.

[0152] In an implementation, the determining module 502 can be specifically configured to: determine, according to the plurality of temperature values, that the temperature decreases by a temperature value less than a third preset value within a third preset time length; and determine that the hot water outlet flow of the water heater is zero.

[0153] In an implementation, the determining module 502 can be specifically configured to: determine, according to the plurality of temperature values, that the temperature increases by a temperature value greater than or equal to a fourth preset value; and determine that the hot water outlet flow of the water heater is zero.

[0154] In an implementation, the processing module 503 can be specifically configured to: if the determination result is that the hot water outlet flow of the water heater is not zero, determine a target heating power of the water heater according to the temperature value at the current time and the set temperature; and control the water heater to heat based on the target heating power.

[0155] In an implementation, when determining the target heating power, the processing module 503 can be specifically configured to: determine different temperature ranges according to the set temperature; and determine the target heating power of the water heater according to the temperature range to which the temperature value at the current time belongs, wherein different temperature ranges correspond to different heating powers.

[0156] In an implementation, when determining the target heating power, the processing module 503 can be specifically configured to: determine a temperature variation trend according to the plurality of temperature values; and determine the target heating power of the water heater according to the temperature range to which the temperature value at the current time belongs based on the temperature variation trend.

[0157] It can be understood that the water heater control device provided in the embodiment can be used to execute the water heater control method in the above method embodiments, and has similar implementation principles and technical effects. For details, refer to the above method embodiments, which will not be described here.

[0158] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of a water heater control device provided in another embodiment of the present application. The water heater control device is applied to a water heater, and a temperature sensor is arranged in a water tank of the water heater. Figure 8 As shown in the figure, the water heater control device 600 includes a processor 601 and a memory 602.

[0159] The memory 602 stores a computer program.

[0160] When the processor 601 executes the computer program stored in the memory, the water heater control method in the above method embodiments is implemented.

[0161] In the above-described water heater, memory 602 and processor 601 are electrically connected, directly or indirectly, to enable data transmission or interaction. For example, these components may be electrically connected via one or more communication buses or signal lines, such as bus 603. Memory 602 stores computer-executable instructions for implementing the data access control method, including at least one software functional module that may be stored in memory 602 in the form of software or firmware. Processor 601 executes various functional applications and data processing by running the software programs and modules stored in memory 602.

[0162] The memory 602 may be, but is not limited to, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), etc. The memory 602 is used to store programs, and the processor 601 executes the programs after receiving execution instructions. Furthermore, the software programs and modules in the memory 602 may also include an operating system, which may include various software components and / or drivers for managing system tasks (e.g., memory management, storage device control, power management, etc.), and may communicate with various hardware or software components to provide an operating environment for other software components.

[0163] The processor 601 can be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. The processor 601 can be a general-purpose processor, including a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), etc. It can implement or execute the various methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0164] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a water heater provided by another embodiment of the present application. Figure 9 As shown, a temperature sensor 701 and a water heater control device 702 are provided in the water tank of the water heater.

[0165] It can be understood that the water heater control device 702 provided in this embodiment can be used to execute the technical solution of any of the above method embodiments, and its implementation principles and technical effects are similar. For details, please refer to the above method embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0166] An embodiment of the present application further provides a computer-readable storage medium, in which computer-executable instructions are stored. When the computer-executable instructions are executed by a processor, they are used to implement the water heater control method in the above method embodiment.

[0167] An embodiment of the present application further provides a computer program product, including a computer program. When the computer program is executed by a processor, the water heater control method in the above method embodiment is implemented.

[0168] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that all or part of the processes in the above-mentioned embodiments can be implemented by instructing the relevant hardware through a computer program. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium. When the computer program is executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above-mentioned methods. Among them, any reference to memory, storage, database or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include non-volatile and / or volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM) or flash memory. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in various forms, such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDRSDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), synchronous link (Synchlink) DRAM (SLDRAM), memory bus (Rambus) direct RAM (RDRAM), direct memory bus dynamic RAM (DRDRAM), and memory bus dynamic RAM (RDRAM).

[0169] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed devices and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For example, multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be omitted or not implemented. In addition, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed can be through some interface, indirect coupling or communication connection of devices or units, which can be electrical, mechanical or other forms.

[0170] So far, the technical solution of the present application has been described in combination with the preferred embodiments shown in the drawings, but it is easy for those skilled in the art to understand that the protection scope of the present application is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or replacements to the related technical features without departing from the principles of the present application, and the technical solutions after the changes or replacements will all fall within the protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A water heater control method, characterized in that: Applied to a water heater, wherein a temperature sensor is provided in a water tank of the water heater, the water heater control method includes: Obtaining multiple temperature values ​​recently monitored by the temperature sensor; determining, based on the multiple temperature values, whether the hot water outlet flow of the water heater is zero; According to the determination result, controlling the water heater to perform heating; The step of determining whether the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is zero based on the multiple temperature values ​​includes: Determining, based on the multiple temperature values, that a continuous temperature drop value is greater than or equal to a first preset value, and that a time difference between each drop of the preset temperature value is less than or equal to a first preset time duration, and determining that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is not zero; According to the multiple temperature values, it is determined that the temperature value at which the temperature drops within the third preset time period is less than or equal to the third preset value, or according to the multiple temperature values, it is determined that the temperature value at which the temperature recovers is greater than or equal to the fourth preset value, and the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is determined to be zero.

2. The water heater control method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The step of controlling the water heater to perform heating according to the determination result includes: If the determination result is that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is not zero, determining the target heating power of the water heater according to the current temperature value and the set temperature; Based on the target heating power, the water heater is controlled to perform heating.

3. The water heater control method according to claim 2, characterized in that: The step of determining the target heating power of the water heater according to the current temperature value and the set temperature includes: Determining different temperature ranges according to the set temperature; The target heating power of the water heater is determined according to the temperature range to which the temperature value at the current moment belongs, wherein different temperature ranges correspond to different heating powers.

4. The water heater control method according to claim 3, characterized in that: The determining the target heating power of the water heater according to the temperature range to which the current temperature value belongs includes: determining a temperature change trend based on the multiple temperature values; Based on the temperature change trend and according to the temperature range to which the current temperature value belongs, the target heating power of the water heater is determined.

5. A water heater control device, characterized in that: Applied to a water heater, wherein a temperature sensor is provided in the water tank of the water heater, and the water heater control device comprises: An acquisition module, configured to acquire a plurality of temperature values ​​recently monitored by the temperature sensor; a determination module, configured to determine whether the hot water outlet flow of the water heater is zero based on the multiple temperature values; a processing module, configured to control the water heater to perform heating according to the determination result; The determining module is specifically configured to: determine, based on the multiple temperature values, that a continuous temperature drop value is greater than or equal to a first preset value, and that a time difference between each drop of the preset temperature value is less than or equal to a first preset duration, and determine that the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is not zero; According to the multiple temperature values, it is determined that the temperature value at which the temperature drops within the third preset time period is less than or equal to the third preset value, or according to the multiple temperature values, it is determined that the temperature value at which the temperature recovers is greater than or equal to the fourth preset value, and the hot water outlet flow rate of the water heater is determined to be zero.

6. A water heater control device, characterized in that: Applied to a water heater, wherein a temperature sensor is provided in the water tank of the water heater, and the water heater control device comprises: Processor, memory; The memory stores a computer program; When the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory, the water heater control method according to any one of claims 1 to 4 is implemented.

7. A water heater, characterized in that: A temperature sensor is provided in the water tank of the water heater, and the water heater further comprises the water heater control device according to claim 5 or 6.

8. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that The computer-readable storage medium stores computer-executable instructions, which are used to implement the water heater control method according to any one of claims 1 to 4 when executed by a processor.

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