Control method, device and equipment of water heater

Abstract

The application provides a water heater control method, device and equipment, the water heater includes an electrical chamber, the electrical chamber is provided with a power panel, the power panel is used for being electrically connected with a power line; the temperature of the electrical chamber in a preset time period is acquired, the first temperature curve is determined according to the temperature of the electrical chamber in the preset time period, the similarity between the first temperature curve and a plurality of preset temperature curves is acquired, when there is no target temperature curve in the plurality of preset temperature curves, the similarity of which with the first temperature curve is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, it indicates that the similarity of the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is less than the preset threshold, the first temperature curve is an abnormal temperature rise curve, the electrical chamber has a fire risk, so that the power panel and the power line are disconnected, so that the water heater is powered off, the temperature of the electrical chamber continues to rise, the electrical chamber can also be prevented from catching fire to cause the water heater to burn out, and short circuit can be avoided to cause other electrical appliances to short circuit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of household appliance technology, and in particular to a control method, device and equipment for a water heater. Background Technology

[0002] Electric water heaters use electric heating elements to heat water in the inner tank, turning cold water into hot water. Electric water heaters have relatively high operating power, and the insulation layer between the inner tank and the outer shell is usually made of flammable foam material, posing a significant fire risk.

[0003] In related technologies, smoke detectors installed indoors can only detect an electric water heater fire and emit smoke, thus triggering an alarm signal. A fire in an electric water heater can easily damage other electrical appliances and may even cause an explosion, resulting in a safety hazard and poor overall safety. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a control method, device, and equipment for a water heater, which addresses the technical problem of poor safety in existing electric water heaters.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a control method for a water heater, the water heater including an electrical compartment, the electrical compartment being equipped with a power board, the power board being electrically connected to a power cord, the method comprising:

[0006] Obtain the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period;

[0007] A first temperature curve is determined based on the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period;

[0008] Obtain the similarity between the first temperature curve and multiple preset temperature curves;

[0009] If the target temperature curve is not found among the multiple preset temperature curves, the power board and the power line are disconnected, and the similarity between the target temperature curve and the first temperature curve is greater than or equal to a preset threshold.

[0010] In one possible implementation, for any one of the plurality of preset temperature curves, obtaining the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve includes:

[0011] Obtain the first slope and the first heating rate of the first temperature curve;

[0012] Obtain the second slope and the second heating rate of the preset temperature curve;

[0013] The similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is determined based on the first slope, the first heating rate, the second slope, and the second heating rate.

[0014] In one possible implementation, determining the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve based on the first slope, the first heating rate, the second slope, and the second heating rate includes:

[0015] Determine the first difference between the first slope and the second slope;

[0016] Determine a second difference between the first heating rate and the second heating rate;

[0017] The similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is determined based on the first difference and the second difference.

[0018] In one possible implementation, determining the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve based on the first difference and the second difference includes:

[0019] If the first difference is within a first preset range and the second difference is within a second preset range, then the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is determined to be greater than or equal to the preset threshold.

[0020] If the first difference is not within the first preset range, or the second difference is not within the second preset range, then it is determined that the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is less than the preset threshold.

[0021] In one possible implementation, obtaining the similarity between the first temperature curve and a plurality of preset temperature curves includes:

[0022] The working mode of the water heater within a preset time period is obtained, and the working mode includes the starting temperature, the target temperature, and the heating power.

[0023] Determine the preset temperature curve corresponding to the operating mode based on the operating mode;

[0024] Obtain the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve corresponding to the working mode.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0026] If a target temperature curve exists among the plurality of preset temperature curves, then the first temperature curve is added to the plurality of preset temperature curves.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the water heater includes an outer shell and a fire extinguishing bottle and a first airbag disposed within the outer shell. The outer shell includes a middle tank and an end cap disposed at the end of the middle tank, and the power board is disposed on the end cap.

[0028] Controlling the disconnection of the power board and the power cord includes:

[0029] The fire extinguishing bottle is controlled to deliver extinguishing gas toward the first airbag, the extinguishing gas causing the first airbag to inflate, thereby pushing the end cap away from the middle barrel to disconnect the power board and the power cord.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the water heater includes a housing and a fire extinguishing bottle and a second airbag disposed within the housing, the second airbag being mechanically connected to the power cord; the method further includes:

[0031] Obtain the smoke concentration in the electrical compartment of the water heater;

[0032] If the smoke concentration is greater than a preset smoke concentration threshold, the fire extinguishing bottle is controlled to deliver extinguishing gas into the second airbag. The extinguishing gas is used to inflate the second airbag, thereby disconnecting the power cord from the power board. The fire extinguishing bottle is also controlled to spray extinguishing gas into the electrical compartment of the water heater.

[0033] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a control device for a water heater. The water heater includes an electrical compartment, in which a power board is disposed. The power board is electrically connected to a power cord. The control device for the water heater includes an acquisition module, a determination module, and a control module, wherein:

[0034] The acquisition module is used to acquire the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period.

[0035] The determining module is used to determine a first temperature curve based on the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period.

[0036] The acquisition module is further configured to acquire the similarity between the first temperature curve and multiple preset temperature curves.

[0037] The control module is used to control the power board and the power line to disconnect when there is no target temperature curve among the plurality of preset temperature curves, wherein the similarity between the target temperature curve and the first temperature curve is greater than or equal to a preset threshold.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the acquisition module is specifically used to acquire the first slope and the first heating rate of the first temperature curve;

[0039] Obtain the second slope and the second heating rate of the preset temperature curve;

[0040] The determining module is specifically used to determine the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve based on the first slope, the first heating rate, the second slope, and the second heating rate.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the determining module is specifically configured to: determine a first difference between the first slope and the second slope; determine a second difference between the first heating rate and the second heating rate; and determine the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve based on the first difference and the second difference.

[0042] In one possible implementation, the determining module is specifically used to determine that the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is greater than or equal to the preset threshold when the first difference is within a first preset range and the second difference is within a second preset range.

[0043] The determining module is specifically used to determine that the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is less than the preset threshold when the first difference is not within the first preset range or the second difference is not within the second preset range.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the acquisition module is specifically used to acquire the working mode of the water heater within a preset time period, the working mode including the starting temperature, the target temperature, and the heating power;

[0045] The determining module is specifically used to determine the preset temperature curve corresponding to the working mode according to the working mode, and to obtain the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve corresponding to the working mode.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the control module is further configured to, where a target temperature curve exists among the plurality of preset temperature curves, add the first temperature curve to the plurality of preset temperature curves.

[0047] In one possible implementation, the water heater includes an outer casing and a fire extinguishing bottle and a first airbag disposed within the outer casing. The outer casing includes a middle tank and an end cap disposed at the end of the middle tank, with the power board disposed on the end cap. The control module is specifically used to control the fire extinguishing bottle to deliver fire extinguishing gas toward the first airbag. The fire extinguishing gas is used to inflate the first airbag to push the end cap away from the middle tank, thereby disconnecting the power board and the power cord.

[0048] In one possible implementation, the water heater includes an outer casing and a fire extinguishing bottle and a second airbag disposed within the outer casing, the second airbag being mechanically connected to the power cord.

[0049] The acquisition module is also used to acquire the smoke concentration in the electrical compartment of the water heater;

[0050] The control module is also used to, when the smoke concentration is greater than a preset smoke concentration threshold, control the fire extinguishing bottle to deliver fire extinguishing gas toward the second airbag, the fire extinguishing gas being used to inflate the second airbag to disconnect the power cord from the power board; and control the fire extinguishing bottle to spray fire extinguishing gas toward the electrical room of the water heater.

[0051] Thirdly, this application provides a water heater, which includes an electrical compartment. The water heater includes an outer shell and a fire extinguishing bottle, a first airbag, and a second airbag disposed in the outer shell. The outer shell includes a middle tank and an end cap detachably connected to the end of the middle tank. A power board is disposed on the end cap and the power board is used to be electrically connected to a power cord.

[0052] The fire extinguishing bottle is connected to the first airbag and the second airbag respectively, and the second airbag is fixedly connected to the power cord;

[0053] When the similarity between the first temperature curve of the electrical room and the preset temperature curve is less than a preset threshold, the fire extinguishing bottle is configured to inflate the first airbag to push the end cap away from the middle barrel, thereby disconnecting the power board from the power line.

[0054] When the smoke concentration in the electrical room exceeds a preset smoke concentration threshold, the fire extinguisher is also configured to inflate the second airbag to disconnect the power cord from the power board.

[0055] In one possible implementation, the power board is provided with a first connection terminal, and the power cord is provided with a second connection terminal that is plugged into the first connection terminal.

[0056] The water heater also includes a cylinder and a limiting plate. A portion of the power cord passes through the cylinder. One end of the limiting plate is inserted into the cylinder, and the other end of the limiting plate is connected to the second airbag. An elastic element is provided on the end of the limiting plate and the cylinder near the first connecting terminal. The elastic element is fixedly connected to the power cord.

[0057] When the second airbag inflates, it causes the limiting plate to detach from the cylinder; the elastic element recovers its deformation and causes the power line to move away from the first connecting terminal, so that the second connecting terminal is detached from the first connecting terminal.

[0058] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a control device for a water heater, including: a processor and a memory;

[0059] The memory stores computer programs;

[0060] The processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to implement the water heater control method as described in any of the first aspects.

[0061] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a readable storage medium storing a computer program; the computer program is used to implement the control method for a water heater as described in any of the first aspects.

[0062] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of controlling a water heater as described in any of the first aspects.

[0063] This application provides a control method, device, and equipment for a water heater. The water heater includes an electrical compartment containing a power board for electrical connection to a power cord. The method acquires the temperature of the electrical compartment over a preset time period. Based on this temperature, a first temperature curve is determined. The similarity between the first temperature curve and multiple preset temperature curves is obtained. If no target temperature curve with a similarity greater than or equal to a preset threshold exists among the preset temperature curves, it indicates that the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curves is less than the preset threshold, indicating an abnormal temperature rise and a fire risk in the electrical compartment. The method then disconnects the power board and power cord, cutting off power to the water heater, preventing further temperature increases in the electrical compartment, and preventing a fire that could burn out the water heater and cause short circuits in other appliances. This method, by disconnecting the power board and power cord when a fire is detected in the electrical compartment, reduces the risk of fire and improves the safety of the water heater by detecting and disconnecting the power board and power cord before a fire occurs. Attached Figure Description

[0064] Figure 1 A flowchart illustrating a water heater control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating a scenario for a water heater control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating another control method for controlling a water heater provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0067] Figure 4A schematic diagram illustrating another water heater control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0068] Figure 5 A schematic diagram illustrating a scenario for another water heater control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0069] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the connection between the fire extinguishing bottle, the second airbag, the power cord, and the power board;

[0070] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a control device for a water heater provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0071] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the control device for a water heater provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0072] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0073] 100: Outer shell; 110: Middle barrel; 120: End cap; 200: Power board; 210: First connecting terminal; 300: Power cord; 310: Elastic element; 320: Second connecting terminal; 330: Cylinder; 400: Fire extinguisher; 410: First pipe; 420: Second pipe; 510: First airbag; 520: Second airbag; 521: Guide cylinder; 522: Limiting plate; 610: Temperature sensor; 620: Smoke sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0074] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, when referring to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0075] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Unless otherwise specified, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0076] In related technologies, a smoke detector installed indoors can only detect an electric water heater fire and emit smoke into the room, thus triggering an alarm signal. A fire in an electric water heater can easily damage other electrical appliances and may even cause an explosion, resulting in a safety hazard.

[0077] In view of this, this application provides a control method for a water heater. The water heater includes an electrical compartment, in which a power board is installed, and a power cord supplies power to the heating element of the water heater through the power board. The method acquires a first temperature curve of the electrical compartment within a preset time period, determines the similarity between the first temperature curve and a pre-stored preset temperature curve, and if the similarity is less than a preset threshold, it indicates that the first temperature curve is abnormal and the electrical compartment has a fire ignition tendency. The method then controls the power board and power cord to disconnect, thereby cutting off power to the water heater and preventing a fire in the water heater's wiring that could damage other appliances, thus improving the safety of the water heater.

[0078] The technical solutions shown in this application will now be described in detail through specific embodiments. It should be noted that the following embodiments may exist independently or in combination with each other; identical or similar content will not be repeated in different embodiments.

[0079] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating a water heater control method provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a scenario for a water heater control method provided in an embodiment of this application. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The method may include:

[0080] S101. Obtain the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period.

[0081] The executing entity in this application embodiment can be a water heater or a control device for the water heater installed in the water heater. Optionally, the control device for the water heater can be implemented by software or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0082] Combination Figure 2 This scenario includes a water heater. The water heater is an electric water heater, which includes an electrical compartment for controlling its operation. The electrical compartment is installed at the end of the inner tank, for example, on the right side. The electrical compartment houses a power board 200, which is electrically connected to a power cord. The power cord is connected to mains power via a plug. The power board processes the mains power and supplies power to the water heater's electrical components, such as the heating element.

[0083] In this embodiment, a temperature sensor can be installed in the electrical compartment to detect the temperature inside. The temperature sensor sends the electrical compartment temperature detected at different times within a preset time period to the control device. Alternatively, the temperature sensor, according to a pre-programmed computer, detects the electrical compartment temperature at preset time intervals and sends the data to the control device. The control device then selects a temperature within the preset time period as needed. For example, the temperature sensor sends the current electrical compartment temperature to the control device every 10 minutes. The control device selects a preset time period as needed, such as the temperature detected by the temperature sensor during a one-hour period when the water heater's heating element is in operation.

[0084] S102. Determine the first temperature curve based on the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period.

[0085] This step can be understood as determining a first temperature curve based on multiple temperatures and times within a preset time period. This first temperature curve is a time-temperature curve, reflecting the change in temperature over time. For example, the first temperature curve can be formed by fitting data using the least squares method. This application does not limit the specific method for determining the first temperature curve.

[0086] S103. Obtain the similarity between the first temperature curve and multiple preset temperature curves.

[0087] The preset temperature curve is a pre-stored normal temperature rise curve of the electrical room, which can be obtained through theoretical model simulation or through the processing of experimental data from the water heater.

[0088] There are several ways to obtain the similarity between a first temperature curve and multiple preset temperature curves. In some implementations, the similarity between the first temperature curve and any one of the multiple preset temperature curves is obtained; that is, the first temperature curve is compared with each preset temperature curve to determine the similarity. In other implementations, the similarity can be obtained through the following steps:

[0089] Step 1: Obtain the operating mode of the water heater within a preset time period. The operating mode includes the initial temperature, target temperature, and heating power. For example, the water heater has three heating modes, each with the same initial and target temperatures, and heating power at low, medium, and high levels, corresponding to slow heating, normal heating, and rapid heating modes, respectively. The operating mode is determined based on the water heater's operating status within the preset time period. For example, the control device obtains the water heater's operating instructions within the preset time period to determine its operating mode.

[0090] Of course, under the same operating mode, the starting temperatures may not be the same. For example, the starting temperature of the preset temperature curve is 30℃; while the starting temperature of the electrical room within the preset time period is 20℃. To improve the accuracy of similarity determination, the curve after 30℃ of the first temperature curve is compared with the preset temperature curve to determine the similarity. That is, when determining the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve, the curve segments within the common temperature range of both are compared.

[0091] Step 2: Determine the preset temperature curve corresponding to the operating mode. Different operating modes correspond to different preset temperature curves. For example, in an operating mode with high heating power, the temperature rises quickly; in an operating mode with low heating power, the temperature rises slowly. Determining the preset temperature curve corresponding to the current operating mode of the water heater eliminates the need to compare with all preset temperature curves, thus improving efficiency and simplifying the calculation process.

[0092] Step 3: Obtain the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve corresponding to the operating mode. This step can be understood as obtaining the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve under the same operating mode, thereby determining whether the first temperature curve conforms to the normal preset temperature curve.

[0093] By comparing the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve under the same working mode through the above steps, the similarity can be determined, which helps to improve the efficiency of similarity determination.

[0094] S104. Determine whether a target temperature curve exists among the plurality of preset temperature curves.

[0095] The target temperature curve is one of several preset temperature curves, and it represents the normal temperature rise curve of the electrical room. If the similarity between the target temperature curve and the first temperature curve is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, then the first temperature curve represents the normal temperature rise curve.

[0096] If the target temperature curve is not found among the multiple preset temperature curves, it means that the similarity between the first temperature curve and all preset temperature curves is less than the preset threshold, the first temperature curve is an abnormal temperature rise curve, and there is a fire risk in the electrical room; then proceed to step S105.

[0097] If a target temperature curve exists among multiple preset temperature curves, it means that the similarity between the first temperature curve and at least one of the preset temperature curves (at this time, the preset temperature curve is named the target temperature curve) is greater than or equal to a preset threshold. If the first temperature curve is a normal temperature rise curve, then execute S106.

[0098] S105. Disconnect the power board and the power cord.

[0099] This step can be understood as follows: when the target temperature curve is not found among multiple preset temperature curves, there is an abnormal temperature rise in the electrical room, which poses a fire risk; disconnecting the control power board and power cord can prevent the electrical components inside the water heater from being burned out, and can also prevent other electrical appliances from being burned out due to short circuits.

[0100] There are several ways to disconnect the power board and power cord. For example, the power board and power cord are connected by a fuse. When the control device determines that there is a fire risk in the electrical room, it controls the temperature heating device of the fuse to heat up and disconnect the electrical connection between the power board and the power cord. Another example is that the power board and power cord are electrically connected by a plug-in assembly. When the control device determines that there is a fire risk in the electrical room, it controls a mechanical device, such as a cylinder or motor, to disconnect the plug and socket of the plug-in assembly.

[0101] Combination Figure 2 The water heater includes an outer casing 100 and a fire extinguishing bottle 400 and a first airbag 510 disposed within the outer casing 100. The outer casing 100 includes a middle tank 110 and an end cap 120 disposed at the end of the middle tank 110. The electrical compartment is installed between the end cap 120 and the inner tank of the water heater. The power board 200 is disposed on the end cap 120. The end cap 120 is detachably connected to the middle tank 110, for example, by snap-fit ​​or interference fit.

[0102] The specific steps for disconnecting the power board from the power cord are as follows: control the fire extinguishing bottle 400 to deliver fire extinguishing gas into the first airbag 510. The fire extinguishing gas is used to inflate the first airbag 510 to push the end cap 120 away from the middle barrel 110. The power board 200 is then disconnected from the middle barrel 110 along with the end cap 120, thereby disconnecting the power board 200 from the power cord.

[0103] In some configurations, the fire extinguishing bottle 400 and the first airbag 510 are connected by a pipe, on which a first solenoid valve is installed. The control device controls the opening of the first solenoid valve, thereby allowing the extinguishing gas in the fire extinguishing bottle 400 to enter the first airbag 510, which in turn causes the first airbag 510 to inflate and push the end cap 120 away from the middle barrel 110.

[0104] In other embodiments, the control device generates extinguishing gas by controlling a chemical reaction within the fire extinguishing bottle 400. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific chemical reaction.

[0105] In this embodiment, the first airbag 510 is resistant to high temperatures, preventing damage to the first airbag 510 caused by high temperatures in the electrical room.

[0106] By mounting the power board 200 on the end cover 120 and inflating the first airbag 510 to open the end cover 120, the power board 200 is disconnected from the power cord. The operation is simple and reliable, and it can also prevent accidents caused by the power board 200 being too close to the power cord.

[0107] It is understood that, in the embodiments of this application, when the target temperature curve is not present among the multiple preset temperature curves, the method further includes performing at least one of the following control operations: controlling the alarm to issue a first alarm signal to remind the user to deal with the water heater malfunction in a timely manner and avoid causing a safety accident; sending alarm information to the user terminal so that the user can obtain the water heater status information in a timely manner.

[0108] S105. Add the first temperature curve to the plurality of preset temperature curves.

[0109] This step can be understood as storing the first temperature curve into multiple preset temperature curves to update the multiple preset temperature curves and improve the accuracy of the preset temperature curves. As the water heater is used for a longer period of time, its temperature rise differs from the theoretical curve. In this embodiment of the application, by adding the first temperature curve with the normal temperature rise obtained from the detection to multiple preset temperature curves, it is beneficial to increase the accuracy of the normal temperature rise curve, thereby improving the accuracy of the water heater fire prevention control and thus improving the safety of the water heater.

[0110] Therefore, the water heater control method provided in this application embodiment includes an electrical compartment containing a power board for electrical connection to a power cord. The method acquires the temperature of the electrical compartment within a preset time period, determines a first temperature curve based on this temperature, and obtains the similarity between the first temperature curve and multiple preset temperature curves. If no target temperature curve with a similarity greater than or equal to a preset threshold exists among the preset temperature curves, it indicates that the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curves is less than the preset threshold, indicating an abnormal temperature rise and a fire risk in the electrical compartment. This allows the power board and power cord to be disconnected, thus cutting off power to the water heater, preventing further temperature increases in the electrical compartment, avoiding fire in the electrical compartment that could burn out the water heater, and preventing short circuits that could cause short circuits in other appliances. The method in this application embodiment, upon detecting a fire trend in the electrical compartment, controls the disconnection of the power board and power cord. This reduces the risk of fire in the electrical compartment and allows for the detection and disconnection of the power board and power cord before a fire occurs, improving the safety of the water heater.

[0111] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating another control method for controlling a water heater provided in an embodiment of this application. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 3 The water heater control method provided in this application includes:

[0112] S301. Obtain the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period.

[0113] It should be noted that the execution process of step S301 can refer to the execution process of S101, and will not be repeated here.

[0114] S302. Determine the first temperature curve based on the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period.

[0115] It should be noted that the execution process of step S302 can refer to the execution process of S102, and will not be repeated here.

[0116] S303. Obtain the first slope and the first heating rate of the first temperature curve.

[0117] The first slope of the first temperature curve at a preset temperature point is obtained, for example, the first slope of the first temperature curve at 40°C; or, the first slope of the first temperature curve at a preset time point is obtained, for example, the first slope of the first temperature curve after heating for 30 minutes. In embodiments of this application, the first slope can be obtained using a derivative formula, or the slope at the preset temperature point or time point can be characterized by calculating the slope within a smaller interval.

[0118] The first heating rate is the temperature difference divided by time. For example, the first heating rate can be obtained by dividing the difference between the terminal temperature and the starting temperature of the first temperature curve by the time difference. Of course, the first heating rate can also be the heating rate within a preset time period, or the heating rate within a preset temperature difference.

[0119] S304. Obtain the second slope and the second heating rate of the preset temperature curve.

[0120] The second slope is determined in the same way as the first slope, and the second heating rate is determined in the same way as the first heating rate, so they will not be repeated here.

[0121] It should be noted that when the first slope is the slope of a preset temperature point, the second slope is also the slope of a preset temperature point; when the first slope is the slope of a preset time point, the second slope is also the slope of a preset time point. When the first heating rate is the difference between the terminal temperature and the starting temperature divided by the time difference, the second heating rate is also the difference between the terminal temperature and the starting temperature divided by the time difference; when the first heating rate is the heating rate within a preset time period, the second heating rate is also the heating rate within a preset time period; when the first heating rate is the heating rate within a preset temperature difference, the second heating rate is also the heating rate within a preset temperature difference.

[0122] The similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is determined based on the first slope, the first heating rate, the second slope, and the second heating rate. This similarity can be determined by the difference between the first and second slopes; or by the difference between the first and second heating rates. Of course, in some implementations, there is a preset relationship between the difference between the first and second slopes and the similarity, with different differences corresponding to different similarities; similarly, there is a preset relationship between the difference between the first and second heating rates and the similarity, with different differences corresponding to different similarities.

[0123] S305. Determine the first difference between the first slope and the second slope.

[0124] This step can be understood as comparing the first slope and the second slope to determine the first difference between them.

[0125] S306. Determine the second difference between the first heating rate and the second heating rate.

[0126] This step can be understood as comparing the first heating rate and the second heating rate to determine the second difference between the two.

[0127] S307. Determine whether the first difference is within a first preset range and whether the second difference is within a second preset range.

[0128] The method for determining whether the first difference is within the first preset range is as follows: if the first difference is greater than or equal to the minimum value of the first preset range and less than or equal to the maximum value of the first preset range, then the first difference is within the first preset range; otherwise, the first difference is not within the first preset range.

[0129] The method for determining whether the second difference is within the second preset range is as follows: if the second difference is greater than or equal to the minimum value of the second preset range and less than or equal to the maximum value of the second preset range, then the second difference is within the second preset range; otherwise, the second difference is not within the second preset range.

[0130] When the first difference is within the first preset range and the second difference is within the second preset range, step S308 is executed; when the first difference is not within the first preset range, or when the second difference is not within the second preset range, step S310 is executed.

[0131] S308. Determine that the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is greater than or equal to the preset threshold.

[0132] This step can be understood as determining the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve. The first temperature curve is a normal temperature rise curve, at which point there is no risk of fire in the electrical room.

[0133] S309. Add the first temperature curve to the plurality of preset temperature curves.

[0134] It should be noted that the execution process of step S309 can refer to the execution process of S106, and will not be repeated here.

[0135] S310. Determine that the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is less than the preset threshold.

[0136] This step can be understood as determining that the first temperature curve is dissimilar to the preset temperature curve, and that the first temperature curve is an abnormal temperature rise curve, at which point there is a risk of fire in the electrical room.

[0137] S311, Disconnect the power board and the power cord.

[0138] It should be noted that the execution process of step S311 can refer to the execution process of S105, and will not be repeated here.

[0139] The water heater control method provided in this application obtains a first slope and a first heating rate of a first temperature curve, obtains a second slope and a second heating rate of a preset temperature curve, and determines a first difference between the first slope and the second slope, and a second difference between the first heating rate and the second heating rate. If the first difference is not within a first preset range, or if the second difference is not within a second preset range, then the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is determined to be less than a preset threshold, indicating an abnormal temperature rise curve and a fire risk in the electrical compartment. This allows the power board and power cord to be disconnected, causing the water heater to lose power, preventing further temperature increases in the electrical compartment, avoiding a fire in the electrical compartment that could burn out the water heater, and preventing short circuits from causing short circuits in other appliances. By comparing the slope and heating rate of the temperature curve separately, the accuracy and reliability of abnormal temperature rise detection are improved.

[0140] The water heater control method provided in this application embodiment further includes: acquiring optical parameters of the electrical compartment. Specifically, an ultraviolet sensor is installed in the electrical compartment to detect the wavelength of light inside the electrical compartment. When the wavelength is ultraviolet, it indicates that an electric spark has occurred in the electrical compartment, which may cause a fire. At this time, the control power board and power cord are disconnected, causing the water heater to lose power, thus preventing the electric spark from causing a fire and further improving the safety performance of the water heater.

[0141] Figure 4 A schematic diagram illustrating another water heater control method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 A schematic diagram illustrating a scenario for another water heater control method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the connections between the fire extinguishing bottle, the second airbag, the power cord, and the power board.

[0142] Combination Figure 4 The water heater control method provided in this application embodiment further includes:

[0143] S401. Obtain the smoke concentration in the electrical compartment of the water heater.

[0144] Combination Figure 5 A smoke sensor 620 is installed in the electrical room to obtain the smoke concentration in the electrical room. Optionally, the smoke sensor 620 is installed at the top of the electrical room, since smoke usually rises, which can improve the accuracy and reliability of smoke concentration detection.

[0145] S402. If the smoke concentration is greater than a preset smoke concentration threshold, control the fire extinguishing bottle to deliver fire extinguishing gas into the second airbag. The fire extinguishing gas is used to inflate the second airbag to disconnect the power cord from the power board. Also, control the fire extinguishing bottle to spray fire extinguishing gas into the electrical room of the water heater.

[0146] Combination Figure 5 and Figure 6 The water heater in this embodiment includes a housing 100 and a fire extinguishing bottle 400 and a second airbag 520 disposed within the housing 100. Both the second airbag 520 and the first airbag 510 are made of high-temperature resistant material. The fire extinguishing bottle 400 is connected to the second airbag 520 via a first pipe 410. A second solenoid valve is installed on the first pipe 410. A control device controls the second solenoid valve to open, thereby causing the fire extinguishing bottle 400 to deliver extinguishing gas into the second airbag 520, causing the second airbag 520 to expand and deform. Alternatively, the control device controls a chemical reaction within the fire extinguishing bottle 400 to generate extinguishing gas, which is then delivered into the second airbag 520 via the first pipe 410.

[0147] When the smoke concentration in the electrical room exceeds a preset smoke concentration threshold, the fire extinguishing bottle 400 is also configured to inflate the second airbag 520 to disconnect the power cord 300 from the power board 200.

[0148] Specifically, the power board 200 is provided with a first connection terminal 210, and the power cord 300 is provided with a second connection terminal 320 that is plugged into the first connection terminal 210. The second connection terminal 320 and the first connection terminal 210 are plugged into to realize the electrical connection between the power board 200 and the power cord 300.

[0149] The water heater also includes a cylinder 330 and a limiting plate 522, and a portion of the power cord 300 passes through the cylinder 330. Figure 6 In the indicated orientation, the power cord 300 is horizontally threaded through the cylinder 330; one end of the limiting plate 522 is inserted into the cylinder 330. Figure 6 In the indicated orientation, the limiting plate 522 is vertically inserted into the cylinder 330; and the other end of the limiting plate 522 is connected to the second airbag 520, for example, the other end of the limiting plate 522 is bonded to the second airbag 520. An elastic element 310 is provided at the end of the limiting plate 522 and the cylinder 330 near the first connecting terminal 210. Under the action of the elastic element 310, the second connecting terminal 320 is pressed tightly within the first connecting terminal 210, ensuring the reliability and stability of the electrical connection between the power board 200 and the power cord 300. The elastic element 310 is fixedly connected to a portion of the power cord 300 located within the cylinder 330; that is, the elastic element 310 can move the power cord 300 during deformation.

[0150] To limit the expansion direction of the second airbag 520 and allow it to move the limiting plate 522, a guide cylinder 521 is provided on the outside of the second airbag 520. The guide cylinder 521 extends vertically and, when the second airbag 520 expands vertically, it can move the limiting plate 522 vertically. The elastic member 310 returns to its original deformation, causing the power cord 300 and the second connecting terminal 320 to move to the right, thereby disengaging the second connecting terminal 320 from the first connecting terminal 210 and disconnecting the power cord 300 from the power board 200.

[0151] Continue to combine Figure 5 and Figure 6 The fire extinguishing bottle 400 is also connected to a second pipe 420. When the smoke concentration is greater than a preset smoke concentration threshold, the fire extinguishing bottle 400 sprays fire extinguishing gas toward the electrical room of the water heater through the second pipe section 420 to prevent the fire from spreading further.

[0152] Of course, in this embodiment of the application, when the smoke concentration is greater than the preset smoke concentration threshold, the control device can also control the alarm to issue a second alarm signal. The second alarm signal may be different from the first alarm signal. For example, the sound frequency of the second alarm signal may be greater than the sound frequency of the first alarm signal, so that the user can determine whether the water heater has a fire tendency or has already caught fire by the difference in the alarm signal, and can handle the water heater flexibly.

[0153] The water heater control method of this application embodiment can not only detect the fire trend of the water heater and control the water heater, but also detect the fire status of the water heater and then control the water heater, thereby further improving the safety of the water heater.

[0154] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a control device for a water heater provided in an embodiment of this application. The control device 10 can be installed inside the water heater. The water heater includes an electrical compartment, which houses a power board for electrical connection to a power cord; please refer to [link to previous document]. Figure 7 The control device 10 of the water heater may include an acquisition module 11, a determination module 12, and a control module 13, wherein:

[0155] The acquisition module 11 is used to acquire the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period.

[0156] The determining module 12 is used to determine a first temperature curve based on the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period.

[0157] The acquisition module 11 is further configured to acquire the similarity between the first temperature curve and a plurality of preset temperature curves.

[0158] The control module 13 is used to control the power board and the power line to disconnect when there is no target temperature curve among the plurality of preset temperature curves, wherein the similarity between the target temperature curve and the first temperature curve is greater than or equal to a preset threshold.

[0159] In one possible implementation, the acquisition module 11 is specifically used to acquire the first slope and the first heating rate of the first temperature curve;

[0160] Obtain the second slope and the second heating rate of the preset temperature curve;

[0161] The determining module 12 is specifically used to determine the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve based on the first slope, the first heating rate, the second slope, and the second heating rate.

[0162] In one possible implementation, the determining module 12 is specifically configured to: determine a first difference between the first slope and the second slope; determine a second difference between the first heating rate and the second heating rate; and determine the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve based on the first difference and the second difference.

[0163] In one possible implementation, the determining module 12 is specifically used to determine that the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is greater than or equal to the preset threshold when the first difference is within a first preset range and the second difference is within a second preset range.

[0164] The determining module 12 is specifically used to determine that the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is less than the preset threshold when the first difference is not within the first preset range or the second difference is not within the second preset range.

[0165] In one possible implementation, the acquisition module 11 is specifically used to acquire the working mode of the water heater within a preset time period, the working mode including the starting temperature, the target temperature and the heating power;

[0166] The determining module 12 is specifically used to determine the preset temperature curve corresponding to the working mode according to the working mode, and to obtain the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve corresponding to the working mode.

[0167] In one possible implementation, the control module 13 is further configured to add the first temperature curve to the plurality of preset temperature curves if a target temperature curve exists among the plurality of preset temperature curves.

[0168] In one possible implementation, the water heater includes an outer casing and a fire extinguishing bottle and a first airbag disposed within the outer casing. The outer casing includes a middle tub and an end cap disposed at the end of the middle tub, and the power board is disposed on the end cap. The control module 13 is specifically used to control the fire extinguishing bottle to deliver fire extinguishing gas toward the first airbag. The fire extinguishing gas is used to inflate the first airbag to push the end cap away from the middle tub, thereby disconnecting the power board and the power cord.

[0169] In one possible implementation, the water heater includes an outer casing and a fire extinguishing bottle and a second airbag disposed within the outer casing, the second airbag being mechanically connected to the power cord.

[0170] The acquisition module 11 is further configured to acquire the smoke concentration in the electrical compartment of the water heater;

[0171] The control module 13 is further configured to, when the smoke concentration is greater than a preset smoke concentration threshold, control the fire extinguishing bottle to deliver fire extinguishing gas toward the second airbag, the fire extinguishing gas being used to inflate the second airbag to disconnect the power cord from the power board; and control the fire extinguishing bottle to spray fire extinguishing gas toward the electrical room of the water heater.

[0172] The control device for a water heater provided in this application embodiment can execute the technical solution shown in the above method embodiment. Its principle and beneficial effects are similar, and will not be described again here.

[0173] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the control device for a water heater provided in an embodiment of this application. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 8 The control device 20 of the water heater may include a processor 21 and a memory 22, wherein the processor 21 and the memory 22 can communicate; for example, the processor 21 and the memory 22 communicate via a communication bus 23, the memory 22 is used to store a computer program, and the processor 21 is used to call the computer program in the memory to execute the control method of the water heater shown in any of the above method embodiments.

[0174] Optionally, the control device 20 of the water heater may also include a communication interface, which may include a transmitter and / or a receiver.

[0175] Optionally, the aforementioned processor can be a Central Processing Unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the method disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly implemented by a hardware processor, or implemented by a combination of hardware and software modules within the processor.

[0176] This application embodiment provides a water heater, the water heater including as follows: Figure 8 The control device for the water heater shown.

[0177] This application provides a readable storage medium storing a computer program; the computer program is used to implement the water heater control method as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0178] This application provides a computer program product, which includes instructions that, when executed, cause a computer to perform the aforementioned water heater control method.

[0179] In the several embodiments provided by this invention, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0180] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0181] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of the present invention can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or in the form of hardware plus software functional units.

[0182] The integrated units implemented as software functional units described above can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. These software functional units, stored in a storage medium, include several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) or processor to execute some steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of the present invention. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0183] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the above-described division of functional modules is merely an example. In practical applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above. The specific working process of the device described above can be referred to the corresponding process in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0184] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a water heater, characterized in that, The water heater includes an electrical compartment, which contains a power board for electrical connection to a power cord. The method includes: Obtain the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period; A first temperature curve is determined based on the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period; The similarity between the first temperature curve and multiple preset temperature curves is obtained; the preset temperature curves are obtained through theoretical model simulation or through experimental data processing of the water heater. If the target temperature curve is not found among the multiple preset temperature curves, the power board and the power line are disconnected, and the similarity between the target temperature curve and the first temperature curve is greater than or equal to a preset threshold.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, For any one of the plurality of preset temperature curves; obtain the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve, including: Obtain the first slope and the first heating rate of the first temperature curve; Obtain the second slope and the second heating rate of the preset temperature curve; The similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is determined based on the first slope, the first heating rate, the second slope, and the second heating rate.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, Determining the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve based on the first slope, the first heating rate, the second slope, and the second heating rate includes: Determine the first difference between the first slope and the second slope; Determine a second difference between the first heating rate and the second heating rate; The similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is determined based on the first difference and the second difference.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, Determining the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve based on the first difference and the second difference includes: If the first difference is within a first preset range and the second difference is within a second preset range, then the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is determined to be greater than or equal to the preset threshold. If the first difference is not within the first preset range, or the second difference is not within the second preset range, then it is determined that the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve is less than the preset threshold.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the similarity between the first temperature curve and multiple preset temperature curves includes: The working mode of the water heater within a preset time period is obtained, and the working mode includes the starting temperature, the target temperature, and the heating power. Determine the preset temperature curve corresponding to the operating mode based on the operating mode; Obtain the similarity between the first temperature curve and the preset temperature curve corresponding to the working mode.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The method further includes: If a target temperature curve exists among the plurality of preset temperature curves, then the first temperature curve is added to the plurality of preset temperature curves.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The water heater includes an outer shell and a fire extinguishing bottle and a first airbag disposed within the outer shell. The outer shell includes a middle tank and an end cap disposed at the end of the middle tank. The power board is disposed on the end cap. Controlling the disconnection of the power board and the power cord includes: The fire extinguishing bottle is controlled to deliver extinguishing gas toward the first airbag, the extinguishing gas causing the first airbag to inflate, thereby pushing the end cap away from the middle barrel to disconnect the power board and the power cord.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The water heater includes an outer casing and a fire extinguishing bottle and a second airbag disposed within the outer casing, the second airbag being mechanically connected to the power cord; the method further includes: Obtain the smoke concentration in the electrical compartment of the water heater; If the smoke concentration is greater than a preset smoke concentration threshold, the fire extinguishing bottle is controlled to deliver extinguishing gas into the second airbag. The extinguishing gas is used to inflate the second airbag, thereby disconnecting the power cord from the power board. The fire extinguishing bottle is also controlled to spray extinguishing gas into the electrical compartment of the water heater.

9. A water heater, characterized in that, The water heater includes an electrical compartment. The water heater includes an outer shell and a fire extinguishing bottle, a first airbag, and a second airbag disposed in the outer shell. The outer shell includes a middle tank and an end cap detachably connected to the end of the middle tank. A power board is disposed on the end cap and the power board is used to be electrically connected to a power cord. The fire extinguishing bottle is connected to the first airbag and the second airbag respectively, and the second airbag is fixedly connected to the power cord; When the similarity between the first temperature curve in the electrical room and the preset temperature curve is less than a preset threshold, the fire extinguishing bottle is configured to inflate the first airbag to push the end cap away from the middle tank, thereby disconnecting the power board from the power cord; the preset temperature curve is obtained through theoretical model simulation or through experimental data processing of the water heater; When the smoke concentration in the electrical room exceeds a preset smoke concentration threshold, the fire extinguisher is also configured to inflate the second airbag to disconnect the power cord from the power board.

10. The water heater according to claim 9, characterized in that, The power board is provided with a first connection terminal, and the power cord is provided with a second connection terminal that is plugged into the first connection terminal. The water heater also includes a cylinder and a limiting plate. A portion of the power cord passes through the cylinder. One end of the limiting plate is inserted into the cylinder, and the other end of the limiting plate is connected to the second airbag. An elastic element is provided on the end of the limiting plate and the cylinder near the first connecting terminal. The elastic element is fixedly connected to the power cord. When the second airbag inflates, it causes the limiting plate to detach from the cylinder; the elastic element recovers its deformation and causes the power line to move away from the first connecting terminal, so that the second connecting terminal is detached from the first connecting terminal.

11. A control device for a water heater, characterized in that, The water heater includes an electrical compartment, which houses a power board for electrical connection to a power cord. The device includes an acquisition module, a determination module, and a control module, wherein: The acquisition module is used to acquire the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period; The determining module is used to determine a first temperature curve based on the temperature of the electrical room within a preset time period; The acquisition module is further configured to acquire the similarity between the first temperature curve and multiple preset temperature curves; the preset temperature curves are acquired through theoretical model simulation or through experimental data processing of the water heater; The control module is used to control the power board and the power line to disconnect when a target temperature curve exists among the plurality of preset temperature curves, wherein the similarity between the target temperature curve and the first temperature curve is greater than or equal to a preset threshold.

12. A control device for a water heater, characterized in that, include: Processor and memory; The memory is used to store computer programs; The processor is used to execute the computer program stored in the memory to implement the control method for the water heater as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

13. A readable storage medium, characterized in that, The readable storage medium stores a computer program for implementing the control method of the water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

14. A computer program product, comprising a computer program, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the water heater control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

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