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

Abstract

The present application belongs to the field of intelligent household appliances, and particularly relates to a water storage type water heater control method, device, equipment and medium. The present application aims to solve the problem that the existing water storage type water heater control method will frequently heat when the instant heating function is used, resulting in relatively high energy consumption. The water storage type water heater control method, device, equipment and medium provided by the present application detect whether there is a person in the current environment through a person sensing module after the person sensing energy saving function is turned on, and heat at the energy saving temperature for heat preservation when the duration of the continuous no one reaches the energy saving duration. The maximum value of the settable range of the energy saving temperature is less than the maximum value of the settable range of the temperature in the instant heating function. The present application effectively reduces energy consumption by using a lower temperature for heat preservation and heating when there is no one for a long time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the present invention belong to the field of smart home appliances, specifically relating to control methods, devices, equipment and media for storage water heaters. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of technology and the improvement of people's living standards, the number and types of home appliances in people's homes are increasing, such as water heaters, air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines. Water heaters are further divided into storage water heaters and instantaneous water heaters. Storage water heaters use an instant heating function to ensure users' needs are met, which guarantees that the water temperature is within a certain range.

[0003] In the existing technology, storage water heaters achieve instant heating based on temperature difference. The user sets the water temperature, and when the water heater detects that the temperature difference between the current water temperature and the user-set water temperature is greater than a threshold, it heats the water in the water heater and stops heating when the preset temperature is reached.

[0004] In summary, existing control methods for storage-type water heaters involve frequent heating when using the instant heating function, resulting in high energy consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems in the prior art, that is, to solve the problem that the existing storage water heater control method will frequently heat when using the instant heating function, resulting in high energy consumption, the present invention provides a storage water heater control method, device, equipment and medium.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a control method for a storage-type water heater, applied to a storage-type water heater, wherein the storage-type water heater includes a human sensing module, and the method includes:

[0007] In response to the user's activation of the human-sensing energy-saving function, the human-sensing energy-saving parameters are obtained. The human-sensing energy-saving parameters include energy-saving duration and energy-saving temperature. The maximum value of the settable range of the energy-saving temperature is less than the maximum value of the settable range of the instant heating function.

[0008] During the operation of the storage-type water heater, the human sensing module monitors in real time whether there are people in the current environment;

[0009] If no one is detected in the current environment, start timing and obtain the timing duration;

[0010] When the timed duration reaches the energy-saving duration, heat preservation heating is performed at the energy-saving temperature.

[0011] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for storage water heaters, when obtaining the perceived energy-saving parameters, the method further includes:

[0012] Obtain the preset heating function of the storage water heater, the heating function including any one of instant heating function, 3D rapid heating function, and large water volume function;

[0013] Accordingly, during the operation of the storage-type water heater, the human detection module monitors in real time whether there are people in the current environment, including:

[0014] During the operation of the storage-type water heater in the heating function, the human sensing module monitors in real time whether there are people in the current environment.

[0015] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for a storage-type water heater, after the start of timing, or after the heat preservation heating at the energy-saving temperature, the method further includes:

[0016] In response to the user's control operation on the storage water heater, a new heating function is acquired, and the timer is restarted to obtain a new time duration. The control operation is an operation to set the parameters or functions of the storage water heater.

[0017] Control the storage water heater to operate with the new heating function;

[0018] When the new timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration, heat preservation heating is performed at the energy-saving temperature.

[0019] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for storage-type water heaters, the method further includes:

[0020] Receive control commands sent by the user through a terminal device or server, and determine the control operation based on the control commands;

[0021] or,

[0022] Receive control commands sent by the user via a remote control, and determine the control operation based on the control commands;

[0023] or,

[0024] Acquire the user's control operations on the storage water heater;

[0025] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for a storage-type water heater, after the timing begins, the method further includes:

[0026] When a person is detected in the current environment, the timer stops and the timer duration is reset to zero.

[0027] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for a storage-type water heater, after the heat preservation heating at the energy-saving temperature, the method further includes:

[0028] When the presence of people in the environment is detected, the preset heating function will be activated.

[0029] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for a storage-type water heater, after the start of timing, or after the heat preservation heating at the energy-saving temperature, the method further includes:

[0030] A water usage event can be determined by using a flow sensor or a temperature sensor.

[0031] If a water usage incident occurs, the timer will restart and a new time duration will be obtained;

[0032] When the new timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration, heat preservation heating is performed at the energy-saving temperature.

[0033] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for storage-type water heaters, the step of determining whether a water usage event has occurred via a flow sensor or a temperature sensor includes:

[0034] When the flow sensor detects that the continuous water consumption has reached a preset water volume, a water consumption event is determined to have occurred.

[0035] And / or,

[0036] When the temperature sensor detects that the rate of water temperature drop is greater than a preset rate, a water usage event is determined to have occurred.

[0037] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for storage-type water heaters, the method further includes:

[0038] When the timeout period reaches the preset screen-off period, the display screen is controlled to enter the screen-off state;

[0039] In response to the user's operation on the storage water heater, the display screen is turned on;

[0040] When someone is detected in the current environment, the monitor screen will turn on.

[0041] When no one is detected in the current environment, the timer restarts to obtain a new time duration, and when the new time duration reaches the preset screen-off time duration, the display screen is controlled to enter the screen-off state.

[0042] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for storage-type water heaters, the method further includes:

[0043] When the human sensor module is detected to be damaged, the control display screen will remain constantly lit.

[0044] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for storage-type water heaters, the method further includes:

[0045] In response to the user's setting operation, the parameters of the storage water heater are set; the parameters include the human-sensing energy-saving parameters and the screen-off time.

[0046] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for storage-type water heaters, the method further includes:

[0047] The system receives preset parameters sent by a server or terminal device and sets parameters for the storage water heater according to the preset parameters; wherein the preset parameters include the human-sensing energy-saving parameters and the screen-off time.

[0048] In a second aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a control device for a storage-type water heater, comprising:

[0049] The acquisition module is used to acquire the energy-saving parameters in response to the user's operation of activating the human-sensing energy-saving function. The energy-saving parameters include energy-saving duration and energy-saving temperature. The maximum value of the settable range of the energy-saving temperature is less than the maximum value of the settable range of the instant heating function.

[0050] The processing module is used to monitor whether there are people in the current environment in real time through the human sensing module during the operation of the storage water heater;

[0051] The processing module is also used to start timing and obtain the timing duration if it detects that no one is in the current environment.

[0052] The processing module is also used to perform heat preservation heating at the energy-saving temperature when the timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration.

[0053] Thirdly, embodiments of the present invention provide a storage-type water heater, comprising:

[0054] Processor, memory, communication interface, human sensing module, display screen, heater, flow sensor and temperature sensor;

[0055] The memory is used to store the executable instructions of the processor;

[0056] The human sensing module is used to detect whether there are people in the current environment;

[0057] The flow sensor is used to detect continuous water usage.

[0058] The temperature sensor is used to detect the water temperature;

[0059] The processor is configured to execute the storage water heater control method according to any one of claims 1 to 12 by executing the executable instructions.

[0060] Fourthly, embodiments of the present invention provide a readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, wherein the computer program, when executed by a processor, implements the storage-type water heater control method described in any of the first aspects.

[0061] Fifthly, embodiments of the present invention provide a computer program product, including a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, is used to implement the storage-type water heater control method described in any of the first aspects.

[0062] Those skilled in the art will understand that the storage-type water heater control method, apparatus, equipment, and medium provided in the embodiments of the present invention, after activating the human-sensing energy-saving function, detects whether there is anyone in the current environment through a human-sensing module. After the duration of continuous undisturbed operation reaches the energy-saving time, it maintains and heats the water at the energy-saving temperature. The maximum value of the settable range of the energy-saving temperature is less than the maximum value of the settable range of the instant heating function. This solution effectively reduces energy consumption by using a lower temperature for heat maintenance during prolonged periods of undisturbed operation. Attached Figure Description

[0063] A preferred embodiment of the storage-type water heater control method of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings are as follows:

[0064] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the storage water heater provided by the present invention;

[0065] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the water storage water heater control method provided by the present invention.

[0066] Figure 3 A schematic flowchart of Embodiment 2 of the control method for a storage water heater provided by the present invention;

[0067] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating Embodiment 3 of the control method for a storage-type water heater provided by the present invention;

[0068] Figure 5 A schematic flowchart of Embodiment 4 of the control method for a storage-type water heater provided by the present invention;

[0069] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first embodiment of the storage-type water heater control device provided by the present invention;

[0070] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second embodiment of the storage-type water heater control device provided by the present invention;

[0071] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the storage-type water heater provided by the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0072] First, those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely for explaining the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make adjustments as needed to adapt to specific application scenarios.

[0073] Secondly, it should be noted that in the description of the embodiments of the present invention, the terms "inner" and "outer", etc., which indicate the direction or positional relationship, are based on the direction or positional relationship shown in the drawings. This is only for the convenience of description and is not intended to indicate or imply that the device or component must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention.

[0074] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of the embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of the present invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0075] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0076] With the rapid development of technology, the level of intelligence in people's home appliances is becoming increasingly higher. Water heaters are divided into storage water heaters and instantaneous water heaters. To meet people's hot water needs, instantaneous water heaters operate by not heating water when it's not in use, and only heating it when water is needed. Storage water heaters use an instant heating function, meaning that the user sets a target temperature value, and when the water heater detects that the temperature difference between the current water temperature and the user's set water temperature is greater than a threshold, it heats the water in the water heater until the preset temperature is reached, at which point heating stops.

[0077] Existing control methods for storage water heaters involve frequent heating when using the instant heating function, resulting in high energy consumption.

[0078] This embodiment provides a control method for a storage water heater. By installing a human sensing module in the storage water heater, when the user turns on the human sensing energy-saving function, the human sensing module monitors in real time whether there are people in the current environment. When there are no people in the current environment and the time of no one is reached reaches the energy-saving time, the water heater is kept warm at a lower energy-saving temperature.

[0079] In addition, during periods when the user is not present and the energy-saving period has not been reached, the system operates according to the heating function selected by the user.

[0080] If the water heater is not used for a period of time that does not reach the energy-saving time limit, or if the user controls the water heater after it has been kept warm at the energy-saving temperature, the timer needs to be reset. During the period of time that does not reach the energy-saving time limit, the water heater will run with a new heating function. Once the energy-saving time limit is reached, it will be kept warm at the energy-saving temperature. If a water usage event is triggered, the timer also needs to be reset. Once the energy-saving time limit is reached, the water heater will be kept warm at the energy-saving temperature.

[0081] If someone is detected in the environment during the period when no one is present and the energy-saving period has not been reached, the timer will stop. After the heating is maintained at the energy-saving temperature, if someone is detected in the environment, the heating function selected by the user will be used.

[0082] This embodiment provides a control method for a storage water heater. After the energy-saving period is reached when no one is present in the current environment and the period of no one is present, the heater is kept warm at a lower energy-saving temperature. Furthermore, when the user is operating the heater, the user is using a large amount of water, or there are people in the environment, the heater is operated using the de-heating function selected by the user. This effectively reduces energy consumption while also meeting the user's needs and improving the user experience.

[0083] The principles and features of the embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The examples given are only used to explain the embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the storage-type water heater provided by the present invention is shown below. Figure 1 As shown, the storage-type water heater includes: a controller, a WIFI module, a human detection module, a power module, a display, a heater, a flow sensor, and a temperature sensor. The WIFI module, human detection module, and power module are all physical devices. The WIFI module is used to communicate with terminal devices or a server; the human detection module is used to monitor whether there are people in the current environment; the power module provides power; the flow sensor detects the continuous water consumption; and the temperature sensor detects the water temperature.

[0085] When users want to use the human-sensing energy-saving function, they can first send the setting parameters to the water heater via a terminal device or server through the WIFI module, or they can operate directly on the water heater to set the relevant parameters.

[0086] Then, the human-sensing energy-saving function is activated. At this time, the controller can obtain relevant parameters and the heating function selected by the user that can coexist with the human-sensing energy-saving function, or the default heating function. While the water heater is running in heating mode, the human-sensing module monitors in real time whether there are people in the current environment. When no one is in the current environment, the timer starts. When the timer reaches the energy-saving time, the controller controls the heater to maintain the temperature at the energy-saving temperature.

[0087] After the timing starts or the water heater is in heat preservation mode, when the user modifies the parameters of the water heater or selects a new heating function, the water heater controller acquires the new heating function and restarts the timing. The water heater operates with the new heating function, and when the new timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration, the controller controls the heater to maintain the heat preservation temperature.

[0088] After the timing starts or the heat preservation heating begins, the controller restarts the timing when a water usage event is detected by the flow sensor or temperature sensor. When the new timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration, the controller controls the heater to maintain the heat preservation heating at the energy-saving temperature.

[0089] After the timing starts, if the controller detects someone in the environment through the human detection module, it will stop the timing and reset it to zero. After the heat preservation and heating process begins, if the controller detects someone in the environment through the human detection module, it will control the heater to operate according to the heating function.

[0090] In addition, when the timer reaches the designated screen-off time, the controller puts the display screen off. When the user operates the water heater, the controller turns the display screen on. When someone is detected in the environment, the controller turns the display screen on. When no one is detected in the environment, the timer restarts, obtaining a new timeout period. When the new timeout period reaches the designated screen-off time, the controller puts the display screen off. If the controller detects a malfunction in the human detection module, it keeps the display screen constantly on.

[0091] It should be noted that the embodiments of the present invention do not limit the actual form of the various devices in the water heater, nor do they limit the interaction method between the devices. In the specific application of the solution, it can be set according to actual needs.

[0092] It should be noted that the storage water heater can be an electric storage water heater or a gas storage water heater. This embodiment of the invention does not limit the type of storage water heater and can be selected according to the actual situation.

[0093] The storage-type water heater provided in this embodiment of the invention effectively reduces energy consumption by starting a timer when no one is in the environment and then maintaining a lower temperature for heating when the timer reaches the energy-saving time.

[0094] The technical solution of this application will now be described in detail through specific embodiments. It should be noted that the following specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be described again in some embodiments.

[0095] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the control method for a storage-type water heater provided by the present invention, as shown below. Figure 2 As shown, the control method for this storage-type water heater specifically includes the following steps:

[0096] S201: In response to the user's operation of activating the human-sensing energy-saving function, obtain the human-sensing energy-saving parameters.

[0097] To save energy, users can activate the energy-saving function when using the water heater.

[0098] In this step, when the user activates the human-sensing energy-saving function, the storage water heater responds to the user's activation of the human-sensing energy-saving function by acquiring the human-sensing energy-saving parameters. The human-sensing energy-saving parameters include the energy-saving duration and the energy-saving temperature. The maximum value of the settable range of the energy-saving temperature is less than the maximum value of the settable range of the instant heating function, so that the water heater can subsequently maintain and heat the water according to the human-sensing energy-saving parameters.

[0099] It should be noted that users can activate the human-sensor energy-saving function in several ways: via remote control; by establishing a communication connection between a terminal device and the water heater, sending a command to the water heater to activate the human-sensor energy-saving function, which the water heater will then activate upon receipt; by sending the command to a server via the terminal device, which then forwards the command to the water heater; by directly operating the water heater itself; or by simply turning on the water heater, which will automatically activate the human-sensor energy-saving function. This embodiment of the invention does not limit the method by which the user activates the human-sensor energy-saving function; the method can be chosen according to the actual situation.

[0100] It should be noted that the human-sensored energy-saving parameters are set by staff before the water heater leaves the factory, or by the user after installation. These parameters determine when and at what temperature heat preservation heating will occur. The energy-saving duration in the human-sensored energy-saving parameters can be 24 hours, 48 ​​hours, 72 hours, or other durations. The energy-saving temperature in the human-sensored energy-saving parameters can be 45 degrees Celsius, 40 degrees Celsius, 35 degrees Celsius, or other temperature values. This embodiment of the invention does not limit the specific values ​​of the human-sensored energy-saving parameters; they can be set according to actual conditions.

[0101] S202: During the operation of the storage water heater, the human sensing module monitors in real time whether there are people in the current environment.

[0102] In this step, after the water heater obtains the energy-saving parameters, in order to determine when to perform heat preservation and heating, it is necessary to determine whether there are people in the current environment. Therefore, during the operation of the storage water heater, the human sensing module needs to monitor whether there are people in the current environment in real time.

[0103] S203: If no one is detected in the current environment, start timing and obtain the timing duration.

[0104] In this step, the water heater uses a human detection module to monitor in real time whether there are people in the current environment. If no one is detected in the current environment, it starts timing and obtains the timing duration.

[0105] It should be noted that if the water heater starts monitoring whether there are people in the current environment in real time through the human sensing module, and if it always detects that there are people in the current environment, then there is no need to start timing until it detects that there are no people in the current environment, at which point timing will start.

[0106] S204: When the timer reaches the energy-saving time, heat is maintained at the energy-saving temperature.

[0107] In this step, after the water heater obtains the time duration, it maintains and heats the water at the energy-saving temperature when the time duration reaches the energy-saving time.

[0108] For example, the energy-saving temperature is 40 degrees Celsius. When the water heater detects that the water temperature is below 35 degrees Celsius through the temperature sensor, it controls the heater to heat the water. When the water temperature reaches 50 degrees Celsius, it stops heating to achieve heat preservation.

[0109] For example, the energy-saving temperature is 45 degrees. When the water heater detects that the water temperature is below 45 degrees through the temperature sensor, it controls the heater to heat the water. When the water temperature reaches 50 degrees, it stops heating to achieve heat preservation.

[0110] It should be noted that the above examples are merely illustrations of the heat preservation and heating process. The embodiments of the present invention do not limit the heat preservation and heating process or the temperature values ​​therein, and can be set according to actual conditions.

[0111] The storage-type water heater control method provided in this embodiment maintains the water temperature at an energy-saving temperature when the environment is unoccupied and the duration of vacancy reaches the energy-saving time. Compared to existing technologies that use instant heating, the maximum value of the settable range of the energy-saving temperature in this solution is smaller than the maximum value of the settable range of the instant heating function, thus effectively reducing energy consumption by maintaining the water temperature at the energy-saving temperature.

[0112] The following describes the operation of the water heater during the timing process provided by the embodiments of the present invention.

[0113] When the water heater obtains the human-sensed energy-saving parameters, it will also obtain the preset heating functions, which include any one of the following: instant heating function, 3D rapid heating function, and large water volume function.

[0114] Furthermore, while the storage-type water heater is operating in heating mode, a human detection module monitors in real time whether anyone is in the environment. The water heater continues to operate in heating mode during the timer until the energy-saving period is reached, at which point it stops heating.

[0115] It should be noted that the water heater can acquire the preset heating function in two ways: First, the user selects the heating function before activating the energy-saving human-sensor function; then, the heating function is activated when the energy-saving human-sensor function is activated. Second, the water heater can acquire the preset heating function by setting a default heating function before the water heater leaves the factory. Alternatively, the user can activate the energy-saving human-sensor function by default upon startup, or the water heater can acquire the default heating function when the user activates the energy-saving human-sensor function without selecting a heating function before activation. This embodiment of the invention does not limit the method by which the water heater acquires the preset heating function; the method can be selected according to actual circumstances.

[0116] It should be noted that the heating function can coexist with the human-sensing energy-saving function. In addition to the instant heating function, 3D rapid heating function, and large water volume function, the heating function can also be other functions that can coexist with the human-sensing energy-saving function. This solution does not exhaustively list them, nor does it limit the heating function. You can choose according to the actual situation.

[0117] The storage water heater control method provided in this embodiment operates according to the heating function from the activation of the human-sensing energy-saving function to the start of heat preservation and heating, effectively ensuring the realization of the heating function, meeting user needs, and improving user experience.

[0118] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of Embodiment 2 of the control method for a storage-type water heater provided by the present invention, as shown below. Figure 3As shown, based on the above embodiments, after the storage water heater starts timing, or after it has been kept warm at an energy-saving temperature, the storage water heater control method further includes the following steps:

[0119] S301: In response to the user's control operation on the storage water heater, obtain the new heating function and restart the timer to obtain the new time duration.

[0120] In this step, after the water heater starts timing, or after it has been kept warm at the energy-saving temperature, if the user wants to set parameters or select heating functions, the user can perform control operations on the water heater. The water heater responds to the user's control operation on the storage water heater, acquires the new heating function, and restarts timing to obtain a new timing duration. The control operation is the operation of setting parameters or functions of the storage water heater.

[0121] S302: Control the storage water heater to operate with the new heating function.

[0122] In this step, after the water heater receives the new timing duration and new heating function, it needs to be controlled to operate the storage water heater with the new heating function in order to meet the user's settings.

[0123] It should be noted that the new heating function may be different from the heating function operated by the water heater during the previous timekeeping process, or it may be the same as the heating function operated by the water heater during the previous timekeeping process. This embodiment of the invention does not limit the new heating function, and it can be selected according to the actual situation.

[0124] S303: When the new timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration, heat preservation heating is performed at the energy-saving temperature.

[0125] In this step, after the water heater obtains a new timeout period, in order to reduce energy consumption, when the new timeout period reaches the energy-saving period, it will be kept warm at the energy-saving temperature.

[0126] The storage water heater control method provided in this embodiment allows the water heater to start timing or operate in heat preservation mode after the storage water heater has started timing or is operating in heat preservation mode. If the user controls the water heater to restart timing, the water heater will operate in a new heating function. When the new timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration, it will perform heat preservation heating, which effectively ensures the user's needs, improves the user experience, and also effectively reduces energy consumption.

[0127] The following describes the method by which a user controls a storage-type water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] If the terminal device can establish a communication connection with the storage water heater by scanning a code or entering a password, the user can send control commands to the water heater through the terminal device. The water heater receives the control commands sent by the user through the terminal device and determines the control operation according to the control commands.

[0129] Users can also send control commands to the server via terminal devices. The server then sends the control commands to the water heater. The water heater receives the control commands sent by the user through the server and determines the control operation based on the commands.

[0130] It should be noted that the terminal device can be a smartphone or a tablet computer. This application does not limit the terminal device and the device can be selected according to the actual situation.

[0131] Users can also send control commands via remote control. The water heater receives the control commands sent by the user via remote control and determines the control operation based on the control commands.

[0132] Users can also control the water heater directly, allowing the water heater to receive the user's control commands on the storage-type water heater.

[0133] It should be noted that the embodiments of this application do not limit the way users control the storage water heater, and the choice can be made according to the actual situation.

[0134] The storage water heater control method provided in this embodiment enables users to control the storage water heater by receiving control commands sent by the user through a terminal device or server, receiving control commands sent by the user through a remote control, and acquiring the user's control operations on the storage water heater. This effectively improves the diversity of ways to enable users to control the storage water heater.

[0135] The following describes how the storage water heater provided in the embodiment of the present invention detects the presence of people in the current environment after the timing starts.

[0136] After the storage-type water heater starts timing, it uses a human detection module to monitor the surrounding environment in real time. If someone is detected, it indicates that the user may want to use the water heater, so the timing needs to be stopped and reset to zero. When the environment is no longer detected, the timing restarts. During the period between detecting someone and restarting the timing, the water heater operates according to its heating function.

[0137] The storage water heater control method provided in this embodiment stops timing and resets it to zero if the presence of people in the environment is detected after timing has started. During this process, the heating function is operated, which effectively ensures the realization of the heating function, meets the needs of users, and improves the user experience.

[0138] The following describes how the storage water heater provided in this embodiment of the invention detects the presence of people in the environment after maintaining and heating at an energy-saving temperature.

[0139] After the storage-type water heater has maintained its energy-saving temperature, if it detects that someone is in the environment, it indicates that the user may want to use the water heater. Therefore, it needs to operate the preset heating function to meet the user's hot water needs. The timer restarts when it detects that no one is in the environment.

[0140] The storage water heater control method provided in this embodiment, after the storage water heater has been kept warm at an energy-saving temperature, will operate with a preset heating function if it is detected that there are people in the current environment. This effectively ensures the realization of the heating function, meets the needs of users, and improves the user experience.

[0141] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating Embodiment 3 of the control method for a storage-type water heater provided by the present invention, as shown below. Figure 4 As shown, based on the above embodiments, after the storage water heater starts timing, or after it has been kept warm at an energy-saving temperature, the storage water heater control method further includes the following steps:

[0142] S401: Determine whether a water usage event has occurred using a flow sensor or a temperature sensor.

[0143] In this step, after the water heater starts timing, or after it has been kept warm at the energy-saving temperature, if the human detection module is damaged and no one is detected in the environment, but the user has already used the water from the water heater, the flow sensor or temperature sensor can be used to determine whether a water usage event has occurred.

[0144] S402: If a water usage incident occurs, the timer will restart and a new time duration will be obtained.

[0145] In this step, after the water heater determines the water usage time and sends it, it indicates that the user is using water from the water heater. To meet the user's needs, the timing needs to be restarted to obtain a new time. During this period, the water heater operates according to its heating function.

[0146] S403: When the new timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration, heat preservation heating is performed at the energy-saving temperature.

[0147] In this step, after the water heater obtains a new timeout period, in order to reduce energy consumption, when the new timeout period reaches the energy-saving period, it will be kept warm at the energy-saving temperature.

[0148] The storage water heater control method provided in this embodiment restarts the timing process after the storage water heater starts timing or operates in heat preservation mode. If a water usage event occurs, the water heater operates in heating mode. When the new timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration, heat preservation mode is activated, effectively ensuring the user's needs, improving the user experience, and also effectively reducing energy consumption.

[0149] The following describes the specific implementation of determining whether a water usage event has occurred using a flow sensor or a temperature sensor, as provided in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0150] The water heater can detect when the continuous water usage reaches the preset water volume using a flow sensor, thus determining that a water usage event has occurred.

[0151] It should be noted that the preset water volume is set by the staff before the water heater leaves the factory to determine whether a water usage event has occurred. The preset water volume can be 2 liters or 3 liters. This embodiment of the invention does not limit the preset water volume, but can limit it according to the actual situation.

[0152] The water heater can also detect when the rate of water temperature drop exceeds a preset rate using a temperature sensor, thus determining that a water usage event has occurred.

[0153] It should be noted that the method for detecting a water temperature drop rate greater than a preset rate can be as follows: the water temperature drops by a value greater than a preset temperature value within a preset time period; or it can be determined by the existence of a preset number of consecutive temperature drops, where the time intervals between consecutive preset number of temperature drops are all less than a preset time. For example, if there are four consecutive temperature drops, and the time intervals between the second and third drops, and between the third and fourth drops, are all less than 5 minutes, then the water temperature drop rate is determined to be greater than the preset rate. This embodiment of the invention does not limit the method for detecting a water temperature drop rate greater than the preset rate, nor does it limit the preset temperature value, the preset number of drops, the preset number of drops, or the preset time; these can be set according to actual conditions.

[0154] The storage-type water heater control method provided in this embodiment determines whether a water usage event has occurred by using a flow sensor or a temperature sensor, effectively improving the diversity of ways to determine whether a water usage event has occurred.

[0155] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating Embodiment 4 of the control method for a storage-type water heater provided by the present invention, as shown below. Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the control method for the storage-type water heater further includes the following steps:

[0156] S501: When the preset screen-off time is reached, the display screen is controlled to enter the screen-off state.

[0157] In this step, after the storage water heater starts timing, in order to save energy consumption, the display screen will be turned off when the preset screen-off time is reached.

[0158] It should be noted that the preset screen-off time is set by the staff before the water heater leaves the factory, or by the user after the water heater is installed, to determine when the display screen enters the screen-off state. The preset screen-off time can be 30 seconds, 1 minute, 5 minutes, or other durations. This embodiment of the invention does not limit the preset screen-off time and can be set according to actual conditions.

[0159] S502: In response to the user's operation on the storage water heater, control the display screen to light up.

[0160] In this step, after the water heater control display screen enters the off state, if the user operates the storage water heater, including control and usage operations—for example, sending commands to the water heater via a terminal device or server, sending commands to the water heater using a remote control, operating the heater itself, or using the water heater—the water heater will respond to the user's operation by turning on the display screen to allow the user to view relevant information.

[0161] S503: When the presence of people in the current environment is detected, control the display screen to turn on.

[0162] In this step, after the water heater control display screen enters the off state, the water heater monitors whether there are people in the current environment in real time through the human sensing module. When it detects that there are people in the current environment, it controls the display screen to turn on so that users can view relevant information on the screen.

[0163] It should be noted that the triggering conditions for the execution of steps S502 and S503 are different. This embodiment of the invention does not limit the execution order of steps S502 and S503. When the corresponding triggering conditions occur, the corresponding steps are executed.

[0164] S504: When the current environment is detected to be unoccupied, the timer is restarted to obtain a new time duration, and when the new time duration reaches the preset screen-off time duration, the display screen is controlled to enter the screen-off state.

[0165] In this step, after the water heater control display lights up, in order to reduce energy consumption, the human sensing module detects that there is no one in the surrounding environment, restarts the timing, obtains a new timing duration, and controls the display to enter the screen-off state when the new timing duration reaches the preset screen-off duration.

[0166] The storage water heater control method provided in this embodiment controls the display screen to turn off when no one is in the current environment, and controls the display screen to turn on when someone or a user operates the storage water heater. This effectively reduces energy consumption while ensuring that user needs are met and improves user experience.

[0167] The following describes the state of the display screen when the human sensing module provided in the embodiment of the present invention is damaged.

[0168] When the water heater detects a malfunction in the human sensor module, the display screen needs to be kept constantly lit in order to meet the user's need to view the information displayed on the screen.

[0169] It should be noted that the method for detecting damage to the human sensor module can be either: if the water heater cannot obtain data through the human sensor module, it is determined that the human sensor module is damaged; or if the data obtained by the water heater through the human sensor module is abnormal, it is determined that the human sensor module is damaged. This embodiment of the invention does not limit the method for detecting damage to the human sensor module, and the appropriate method can be selected according to the actual situation.

[0170] The storage water heater control method provided in this embodiment keeps the display screen on when the human sensor module is damaged, effectively ensuring the normal operation of the water heater and improving the user experience.

[0171] The following describes how users set parameters for a storage-type water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0172] Users can directly set parameters on the storage water heater, and the water heater responds to the user's settings by adjusting parameters such as human-sensored energy-saving parameters and screen-off time.

[0173] For example, users can press the buttons on the water heater in a specified sequence to enter the settings. Combining this with the information displayed on the screen, users can then press the corresponding buttons to complete the settings. The screen displays "dd," indicating that the screen-off time has been set. Continuously pressing the button will display "00, 01, 02, 05, 15, 30," representing 0 minutes, 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, 5 minutes, and 10 minutes, respectively. The screen displays "L4," indicating that the energy-saving duration has been set. Continuously pressing the button will display "5, 10, 24, 72, OF," representing 5 hours, 10 hours, 24 hours, and 72 hours, respectively. This only activates the screen-off function and does not perform the heat preservation heating function within the human-sensor energy-saving feature.

[0174] It should be noted that the above example is only an illustration of the parameter setting process for a storage water heater. The embodiments of the present invention do not limit it and can be determined according to the actual situation.

[0175] Users can also send preset parameters to the water heater through terminal devices or servers. The water heater receives the preset parameters sent by the server or terminal devices and sets the parameters of the storage water heater according to the preset parameters. Among them, the preset parameters include human-sensing energy-saving parameters and screen-off time.

[0176] For example, after a user selects parameters via a terminal device, the terminal device sends the preset parameters to the server, which then sends the preset parameters to the water heater. If the user selects a screen-off time of 0 minutes, 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, 5 minutes, or 10 minutes, the preset parameters sent are 0000, 000F, 001E, 003C, 012C, and 0258, respectively. If the user selects an energy-saving duration of 5 hours, 10 hours, 24 hours, or 72 hours, and only activates the screen-off function without the heat preservation heating feature, the preset parameters sent are 00, 05, 0A, 18, and FF, respectively.

[0177] It should be noted that the above example is only an illustration of the parameter setting process for a storage water heater. The embodiments of the present invention do not limit it and can be determined according to the actual situation.

[0178] It should be noted that users can also set the human sensor to be turned on and off. For example, when setting it directly on the water heater, the display shows "dF," indicating entry into the energy-saving time setting. Continuously pressing the button will display "ON" and "OF," indicating on and off respectively. For example, when setting it via a server sending preset parameters, the user selects to turn it on or off; the preset parameter is 1 or 0.

[0179] The storage water heater control method provided in this embodiment allows users to set parameters directly on the water heater or by sending preset parameters through terminal devices or servers, thus improving the diversity of parameter setting methods.

[0180] The following are embodiments of the apparatus described in this application, which can be used to execute the embodiments of the method described in this application. For details not disclosed in the apparatus embodiments of this application, please refer to the embodiments of the method described in this application.

[0181] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first embodiment of the storage-type water heater control device provided by the present invention; as shown below. Figure 6 As shown, the control device 60 for the storage-type water heater includes:

[0182] The acquisition module 61 is used to acquire human-sensor energy-saving parameters in response to the user's operation of activating the human-sensor energy-saving function. The human-sensor energy-saving parameters include energy-saving duration and energy-saving temperature. The maximum value of the settable range of the energy-saving temperature is less than the maximum value of the settable range of the instant heating function.

[0183] The processing module 62 is used to monitor in real time whether there are people in the current environment during the operation of the storage water heater through the human sensing module.

[0184] The processing module 62 is also used to start timing and obtain the timing duration if it detects that no one is in the current environment.

[0185] The processing module 62 is also used to perform heat preservation heating at the energy-saving temperature when the timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration.

[0186] Furthermore, the acquisition module 61 is also used to acquire the preset heating function of the storage water heater, the heating function including any one of instant heating function, 3D rapid heating function, and large water volume function.

[0187] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is specifically used to monitor in real time whether there are people in the current environment during the operation of the storage water heater in the heating function through the human sensing module.

[0188] Furthermore, the acquisition module 61 is also used to acquire new heating functions in response to the user's control operation on the storage water heater.

[0189] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is also used to restart the timing and obtain a new timing duration in response to the user's control operation on the storage water heater, wherein the control operation is an operation to set the parameters or functions of the storage water heater.

[0190] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is also used to control the storage water heater to operate with the new heating function.

[0191] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is also used to perform heat preservation heating at the energy-saving temperature when the new timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration.

[0192] The storage water heater control device provided in this embodiment is used to execute the technical solution of the storage water heater in any of the aforementioned method embodiments. Its implementation principle and technical effect are similar, and will not be described again here.

[0193] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second embodiment of the storage-type water heater control device provided by the present invention; as shown below. Figure 7 As shown, the control device 60 for the storage-type water heater also includes:

[0194] The receiving module 63 is used to receive control commands sent by the user through a terminal device or a server.

[0195] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is also used to determine the control operation based on the control command.

[0196] Furthermore, the receiving module 63 is also used to receive control commands sent by the user via a remote control.

[0197] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is also used to determine the control operation based on the control command.

[0198] Furthermore, the acquisition module 61 is also used to acquire the user's control operations on the storage water heater.

[0199] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is also used to stop the timer and reset the timer duration to zero when it detects that there are people in the current environment.

[0200] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is also used to operate the preset heating function when it detects that there are people in the current environment.

[0201] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is also used for:

[0202] A water usage event can be determined by using a flow sensor or a temperature sensor.

[0203] If a water usage incident occurs, the timer will restart and a new time duration will be obtained;

[0204] When the new timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration, heat preservation heating is performed at the energy-saving temperature.

[0205] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is specifically used for:

[0206] When the flow sensor detects that the continuous water consumption has reached a preset water volume, a water consumption event is determined to have occurred.

[0207] And / or,

[0208] When the temperature sensor detects that the rate of water temperature drop is greater than a preset rate, a water usage event is determined to have occurred.

[0209] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is also used for:

[0210] When the timeout period reaches the preset screen-off period, the display screen is controlled to enter the screen-off state;

[0211] In response to the user's operation on the storage water heater, the display screen is turned on;

[0212] When someone is detected in the current environment, the monitor screen will turn on.

[0213] When no one is detected in the current environment, the timer restarts to obtain a new time duration, and when the new time duration reaches the preset screen-off time duration, the display screen is controlled to enter the screen-off state.

[0214] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is also used to control the display screen to remain constantly lit when the human sensor module is detected to be damaged.

[0215] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is also used to set parameters for the storage water heater in response to the user's setting operation; the parameters include the human-sensing energy-saving parameters and the screen-off time.

[0216] Furthermore, the receiving module 63 is also used to receive preset parameters sent by the server or terminal device.

[0217] Furthermore, the processing module 62 is also used to set parameters for the storage water heater according to the preset parameters; wherein, the preset parameters include the human-sensing energy-saving parameters and the screen-off time.

[0218] The storage water heater control device provided in this embodiment is used to execute the technical solution of the storage water heater in any of the aforementioned method embodiments. Its implementation principle and technical effect are similar, and will not be described again here.

[0219] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the storage-type water heater provided by the present invention. Figure 8 As shown, the storage-type water heater 80 includes:

[0220] Processor 81, memory 82, communication interface 83, human sensing module 84, display screen 85, heater 86, flow sensor 87, and temperature sensor 88;

[0221] The memory 82 is used to store the executable instructions of the processor 81;

[0222] The processor 81 is configured to execute the technical solution of the storage water heater in any of the foregoing method embodiments by executing the executable instructions.

[0223] Optionally, the memory 82 can be either standalone or integrated with the processor 81.

[0224] Optionally, when the memory 82 is a device independent of the processor 81, the storage-type water heater 80 may further include:

[0225] A bus is used to connect the aforementioned devices.

[0226] This storage-type water heater is used to implement the technical solution of the storage-type water heater in any of the aforementioned method embodiments. Its implementation principle and technical effect are similar, and will not be repeated here.

[0227] This invention also provides a readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the technical solutions provided in any of the foregoing method embodiments.

[0228] This invention also provides a computer program product, including a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, is used to implement the technical solutions provided in any of the foregoing method embodiments.

[0229] 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 control method for a storage-type water heater, characterized in that, Applied to a storage-type water heater, the storage-type water heater including a human sensing module, the method includes: In response to the user's activation of the human-sensing energy-saving function, the human-sensing energy-saving parameters and the preset heating function of the storage water heater are obtained. The human-sensing energy-saving parameters include energy-saving duration and energy-saving temperature. The maximum value of the settable range of the energy-saving temperature is less than the maximum value of the settable range of the instant heating function. During the operation of the storage water heater in the heating function, the human sensing module monitors in real time whether there are people in the current environment; If no one is detected in the current environment, a timer is started to obtain the time duration; during the process from the activation of the human-sensing energy-saving function to the start of heat preservation and heating, the storage water heater operates with the heating function. When the timeout period reaches the energy-saving period, heat preservation heating is performed at the energy-saving temperature; After the timing starts or after the energy-saving temperature is maintained and heated, a flow sensor or temperature sensor determines whether a water usage event has occurred. If a water usage event occurs, the timing restarts to obtain a new timing duration, and when the new timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration, the energy-saving temperature is maintained and heated.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating function includes any one of the following: instant heating function, 3D rapid heating function, and large water volume function.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, After the timing begins, or after the heat preservation heating at the energy-saving temperature is completed, the method further includes: In response to the user's control operation on the storage water heater, a new heating function is acquired, and the timer is restarted to obtain a new time duration. The control operation is an operation to set the parameters or functions of the storage water heater. Control the storage water heater to operate with the new heating function; When the new timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration, heat preservation heating is performed at the energy-saving temperature.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive control commands sent by the user through a terminal device or server, and determine the control operation based on the control commands; or, Receive control commands sent by the user via a remote control, and determine the control operation based on the control commands; or, The user's control operations on the storage water heater are obtained.

5. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, After the timing is started, the method further includes: When a person is detected in the current environment, the timer stops and the timer duration is reset to zero.

6. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, After the heat preservation heating at the energy-saving temperature is performed, the method further includes: When the presence of people in the environment is detected, the preset heating function will be activated.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process of determining whether a water usage event has occurred using a flow sensor or a temperature sensor includes: When the flow sensor detects that the continuous water consumption has reached a preset water volume, a water consumption event is determined to have occurred. And / or, When the temperature sensor detects that the rate of water temperature drop is greater than a preset rate, a water usage event is determined to have occurred.

8. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the timeout period reaches the preset screen-off period, the display screen is controlled to enter the screen-off state; In response to the user's operation on the storage water heater, the display screen is turned on; When someone is detected in the current environment, the monitor screen will turn on. When no one is detected in the current environment, the timer restarts to obtain a new time duration, and when the new time duration reaches the preset screen-off time duration, the display screen is controlled to enter the screen-off state.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the human sensor module is detected to be damaged, the control display screen will remain constantly lit.

10. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: In response to the user's setting operation, the parameters of the storage water heater are set; the parameters include the human-sensing energy-saving parameters and the screen-off time.

11. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: The system receives preset parameters sent by a server or terminal device and sets parameters for the storage water heater according to the preset parameters; wherein the preset parameters include the human-sensing energy-saving parameters and the screen-off time.

12. A control device for a storage-type water heater, characterized in that, The device is used to perform the control method for a storage-type water heater as described in any one of claims 1-11, including: The acquisition module is used to acquire the energy-saving parameters in response to the user's operation of activating the human-sensing energy-saving function. The energy-saving parameters include energy-saving duration and energy-saving temperature. The maximum value of the settable range of the energy-saving temperature is less than the maximum value of the settable range of the instant heating function. The processing module is used to monitor whether there are people in the current environment in real time through the human sensing module during the operation of the storage water heater; The processing module is also used to start timing and obtain the timing duration if it detects that no one is in the current environment. The processing module is also used to perform heat preservation heating at the energy-saving temperature when the timing duration reaches the energy-saving duration.

13. A storage-type water heater, characterized in that, include: Processor, memory, communication interface, human sensing module, display screen, heater, flow sensor and temperature sensor; The memory is used to store the executable instructions of the processor; The human sensing module is used to detect whether there are people in the current environment; The flow sensor is used to detect continuous water usage. The temperature sensor is used to detect the water temperature; The processor is configured to execute the storage water heater control method according to any one of claims 1 to 11 by executing the executable instructions.

14. A readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the storage-type water heater control method according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

15. A computer program product, characterized in that, Includes a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, is used to implement the storage-type water heater control method according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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