Gas water heater and control method thereof

Abstract

The present application relates to a kind of gas water heater and its control method, when the water pressure of gas water heater is stabilized, start water pump, drive external water source to heat exchange component water supply, to make up the water supply in the water inlet waterway, ensure that the water flow detected by first sensor is controlled in preset range.At the same time, if the water flow detected by second sensor is unstable, such as: the water flow detected by second sensor gradually becomes small, at this time control module then controls the power regulation of water pump, increase the water supply of external water source to heat exchange component, to ensure that the water flow detected by first sensor is still stable in preset range.Such, the present gas water heater does not need to increase the suction force of water inlet waterway when working, can ensure that water pressure is stabilized, ensure hot water stable supply, it is advantageous to improve bathing experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of hot water equipment technology, and in particular to gas water heaters and their control methods. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, some residential communities in the city have long suffered from low tap water pressure. In addition, the water pressure in high-rise buildings is unstable, and the water flow is consistently low. As a result, users experience problems such as very low hot water flow and low water pressure when using hot water, which can cause gas water heaters to fail to start.

[0003] In existing technologies, to meet the water needs of these users, most gas water heaters have a small internal circulating water pump. When the gas water heater detects water flow but the flow rate is low, it directly activates the circulating water pump to increase the pressure. This pressure increase method increases the water pressure in the inlet pipe by increasing the suction force. However, using this pressure increase method in urban residential areas inevitably leads to even lower water pressure or no water at all for other users. This directly affects the water use of others, infringes on their rights, and violates relevant water supply regulations. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The first technical problem solved by this invention is to provide a gas water heater that ensures stable water pressure without affecting the water pressure of other users, thereby ensuring a stable supply of hot water.

[0005] The second technical problem solved by this invention is to provide a control method for a gas water heater that ensures stable water pressure without affecting the water pressure of other users, thereby ensuring a stable supply of hot water.

[0006] The first technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0007] A gas water heater includes: a water heater body, the water heater body including a heat exchange component, a water inlet connector, a pressure boosting connector, a control module, and a first sensor and a second sensor, both electrically connected to the control module; the pressure boosting connector and the water inlet connector are connected in parallel to the water inlet end of the heat exchange component; the water inlet connector is used to connect to the household water supply line; the first sensor is used to detect the water flow rate flowing into or out of the heat exchange component; the second sensor is used to detect the water flow rate flowing into the water inlet connector; and a water pump, the water pump being connected to the pressure boosting connector and used to connect to an external water source; the control module controls the start / stop or power adjustment of the water pump according to the water flow rate detected by the second sensor, so that the water flow rate detected by the first sensor is controlled within a preset range.

[0008] The gas water heater of this invention offers the following advantages compared to the prior art: By connecting the inlet connector and the booster connector in parallel to the inlet end of the heat exchange component, both the incoming water circuit and the external water source can supply water to the heat exchange component independently. Since the control module can control the start / stop or power adjustment of the water pump based on the water flow detected by the second sensor, when the water flow detected by the second sensor is less than or equal to the preset value for starting the water pump, the control module controls the water pump to start, allowing the external water source to supply water to the heat exchange component to compensate for insufficient water supply in the incoming water circuit and ensure that the water flow detected by the first sensor is controlled within the preset range. Simultaneously, if the water flow detected by the second sensor is unstable, for example, if the water flow detected by the second sensor gradually decreases, the control module controls the power adjustment of the water pump to increase the water supply from the external water source to the heat exchange component, ensuring that the water flow detected by the first sensor remains stable within the preset range. Thus, this gas water heater can maintain stable water pressure and a stable supply of hot water without increasing the suction force of the incoming water circuit during operation, thereby improving the bathing experience.

[0009] In one embodiment, when the water flow detected by the second sensor is less than or equal to a first preset value, the control module controls the water pump to start, and can control the power of the water pump to be negatively correlated with the change in the water flow detected by the second sensor, wherein the first preset value is less than or equal to the lowest threshold of the preset range.

[0010] In one embodiment, when the second sensor detects that the water flow rate is greater than or equal to a second preset value, the control module controls the water pump to stop running, wherein the second preset value is within the preset range.

[0011] In one embodiment, the water heater body further includes a three-way valve, and an inlet pipe, a first connecting pipe, and a second connecting pipe respectively connected to the three-way valve. The inlet pipe is connected to the inlet end of the heat exchange component, the first connecting pipe is connected to the inlet connector, and the second connecting pipe is connected to the pressure boosting connector. The first sensor is disposed on the inlet pipe, and the second sensor is disposed on the first connecting pipe.

[0012] In one embodiment, the water heater body further includes a first one-way valve, which is disposed on the first connecting pipe and is used to allow water to flow unidirectionally from the inlet connector into the inlet pipe.

[0013] In one embodiment, the water heater body further includes a second one-way valve, which is disposed on the second connecting pipe and is used to allow water to flow unidirectionally from the booster connector into the inlet pipe.

[0014] In one embodiment, the gas water heater further includes a display component that is communicatively connected to the control module, and the display component can at least be used to select the operating mode of the gas water heater.

[0015] In one embodiment, the display component is provided with at least two mode buttons. One mode button is used to control the gas water heater to be in automatic mode, so that the control module controls the water pump to start and stop according to the water flow detected by the second sensor. The other mode button is used to control the gas water heater to be in single-use mode, so that the control module directly controls the water pump to start.

[0016] In one embodiment, the display component is provided with a temperature adjustment button for adjusting the temperature of the hot water in the gas water heater.

[0017] In one embodiment, the gas water heater further includes a third connecting pipe, through which the water pump is connected to the booster connector.

[0018] The second technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0019] A control method for a gas water heater, the gas water heater comprising a water heater body and a water pump, the water heater body comprising a heat exchange component, a water inlet connector, and a booster connector, the booster connector being connected in parallel with the water inlet connector to the water inlet end of the heat exchange component, and the water pump being connected to the booster connector and used for connecting to an external water source; the control method for the gas water heater comprising the following steps: starting the water pump to deliver water from the external water source to the heat exchange component; acquiring a first water flow rate entering the heat exchange component and a second water flow rate entering the water inlet connector; and controlling the operating power of the water pump according to the change in the second water flow rate to keep the first water flow rate within a preset range.

[0020] The control method for a gas water heater described in this invention offers the following advantages compared to prior art: When the water pressure is stable, the gas water heater starts the water pump to drive an external water source to supply water to the heat exchange components, compensating for insufficient water supply in the inlet water circuit and ensuring that the water flow detected by the first sensor is controlled within a preset range. Simultaneously, if the water flow detected by the second sensor is unstable, for example, if the water flow detected by the second sensor gradually decreases, the control module controls the power adjustment of the water pump to increase the water supply from the external water source to the heat exchange components, ensuring that the water flow detected by the first sensor remains stable within the preset range. Thus, this gas water heater can maintain stable water pressure and a stable hot water supply without increasing the suction force of the inlet water circuit during operation, thereby improving the bathing experience.

[0021] In one embodiment, before the step of starting the water pump to deliver water from the external water source to the heat exchange assembly, the method further includes: starting the gas water heater; inputting the operating mode of the gas water heater, wherein the operating mode includes at least an automatic mode and a single-use mode; and executing the start of the water pump when the gas water heater meets the corresponding triggering condition in the input operating mode.

[0022] In one embodiment, when the gas water heater meets the corresponding triggering condition in the input operating mode, the step of starting the water pump is executed, including: when the operating mode is automatic mode, obtaining the first water flow rate entering the heat exchange component and the second water flow rate entering the water inlet connector; if both the first water flow rate and the second water flow rate are less than or equal to a first preset value, the water pump is started, wherein the first preset value is less than or equal to the lowest threshold of the preset range.

[0023] In one embodiment, when the gas water heater meets the corresponding triggering conditions in the input operating mode, the step of starting the water pump is executed, including: when the operating mode is single-use mode, directly starting the water pump.

[0024] In one embodiment, the method further includes turning off the water pump when the single-use mode is entered again.

[0025] In one embodiment, after starting the water pump to deliver water from the external water source to the heat exchange assembly, the method further includes: monitoring the water pump to determine whether the water pump is in an idling state; and when the idling state of the water pump meets a preset condition, turning off the water pump and exiting the operating mode.

[0026] In one embodiment, the step of shutting down the water pump and exiting the operating mode when the idling state of the water pump meets preset conditions includes: shutting down the water pump after the idling state of the water pump continues for a first preset time; after a second preset time, if the first water flow rate entering the heat exchange component and the second water flow rate entering the water inlet are both less than or equal to a first preset value, restarting the water pump and performing a judgment on whether the water pump is in an idling state, wherein the first preset value is less than or equal to the lowest threshold of the preset range; if so, repeating the above two steps at least once; if the water pump is still in an idling state, shutting down the water pump and exiting the operating mode. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an improper limitation of the invention.

[0028] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a gas water heater as described in one embodiment;

[0030] Figure 2 This is a graph showing the relationship between water flow rate and pump startup and power increase in one embodiment;

[0031] Figure 3 This is a graph showing the relationship between water flow rate and pump startup and power reduction in one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of a gas water heater control method described in one embodiment. Figure 1 ;

[0033] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of a gas water heater control method described in one embodiment. Figure 2 ;

[0034] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart of a gas water heater control method described in one embodiment. Figure 3 ;

[0035] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of a gas water heater control method described in one embodiment. Figure 4 ;

[0036] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart of a gas water heater control method described in one embodiment. Figure 5 ;

[0037] Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart of a gas water heater control method described in one embodiment. Figure 6 ;

[0038] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the gas water heater control method in automatic mode as described in one embodiment;

[0039] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the control method for a gas water heater in a single-use mode as described in one embodiment.

[0040] Figure label:

[0041] 100. Gas water heater; 110. Water heater body; 111. Heat exchange component; 1111. Inlet pipe; 112. Inlet connector; 1121. First connecting pipe; 1122. First check valve; 113. Booster connector; 1131. Second connecting pipe; 1132. Second check valve; 114. Control module; 115. First sensor; 116. Second sensor; 117. Three-way valve; 120. Water pump; 121. Third connecting pipe; 130. Display component; 131. Mode button; 132. Temperature adjustment button; 133. Power switch; 140. Housing; 200. Inlet water line; 300. External water source. Detailed Implementation

[0042] To make the above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention can be practiced in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0043] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 A gas water heater 100 includes a water heater body 110 and a water pump 120. The water heater body 110 includes a heat exchange assembly 111, an inlet connector 112, a booster connector 113, a control module 114, and a first sensor 115 and a second sensor 116, both electrically connected to the control module 114. The booster connector 113 and the inlet connector 112 are connected in parallel to the inlet end of the heat exchange assembly 111. The inlet connector 112 is used to connect to the household water supply line 200. The first sensor 115 is used to detect the flow rate of water flowing into or out of the heat exchange assembly 111. The second sensor 116 is used to detect the flow rate of water flowing into the inlet connector 112. The water pump 120 is connected to the booster connector 113 and is used to connect to an external water source 300. The control module 114 controls the start / stop or power adjustment of the water pump 120 according to the water flow rate detected by the second sensor 116, so that the water flow rate detected by the first sensor 115 is controlled within a preset range.

[0044] The gas water heater 100 described above connects the inlet connector 112 and the booster connector 113 in parallel to the inlet end of the heat exchange component 111, so that both the household water circuit 200 and the external water source 300 can supply water to the heat exchange component 111 independently. Since the control module 114 can control the start / stop or power adjustment of the water pump 120 according to the water flow detected by the second sensor 116, when the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 is less than or equal to the preset value of the water flow used to start the water pump 120, the control module 114 controls the water pump 120 to start, so that the external water source 300 supplies water to the heat exchange component 111 to compensate for the insufficient water supply in the household water circuit 200 and ensure that the water flow detected by the first sensor 115 is controlled within the preset range. Meanwhile, if the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 is unstable, for example, if the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 gradually decreases, the control module 114 will control the power adjustment of the water pump 120 to increase the water supply from the external water source 300 to the heat exchange component 111, so as to ensure that the water flow detected by the first sensor 115 remains stable within the preset range. In this way, the gas water heater 100 does not need to increase the suction force of the inlet water circuit 200 during operation to ensure stable water pressure and a stable supply of hot water, which is beneficial to improving the bathing experience.

[0045] It should be noted that "parallel connection" should be understood as follows: the inlet connector 112 and the booster connector 113 can supply water to the heat exchange component 111 independently, and their water supply does not interfere with each other. For example, the inlet connector 112 and the booster connector 113 are connected to the heat exchange component 111 through two pipes respectively.

[0046] It should also be noted that the positions of the first sensor 115 and the second sensor 116 within the water heater body 110 can be designed in various ways. For example, the first sensor 115 can be installed on the connecting pipe of the heat exchange component 111, downstream of the connection point between the booster connector 113 and the connecting pipe of the heat exchange component 111, so as to detect the total water flow of the inlet water circuit 200 and the external water source 300. Of course, the first sensor 115 can also be installed downstream of the heat exchange component 111, that is, downstream of the outlet end of the heat exchange component 111. Meanwhile, the second sensor 116 can be installed between the inlet connector 112 and the heat exchange component 111, upstream of the connection point between the booster connector 113 and the connecting pipe of the heat exchange component 111; or it can be directly installed on the inlet water circuit 200, etc. The external water source 300 can have various structures, as long as it can provide a water source for the water pump 120. For example, the external water source 300 can be, but is not limited to, a water tank, a storage tank, a water reservoir, a water basin, etc.

[0047] Specifically, the external water source 300 is a water storage tank.

[0048] Furthermore, the power adjustment of the water pump 120 can change the suction force of the water pump 120 on the external water source 300, thereby regulating the water supply flow rate of the external water source 300 to the heat exchange component 111. Simultaneously, the preset range has a minimum threshold and a maximum threshold. Controlling the flow rate within the preset range means that the water flow rate detected by the first sensor 115 should be greater than or equal to the minimum threshold and less than or equal to the maximum threshold. The values ​​of the minimum and maximum thresholds can be determined according to the user's actual needs.

[0049] Further, please refer to Figure 1 When the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 is less than or equal to the first preset value, it indicates that the water pressure or water supply from the inlet water circuit 200 to the heat exchange component 111 is insufficient. At this time, the control module 114 controls the water pump 120 to start, and can adjust the power of the water pump 120 in a negative correlation with the changes in the water flow detected by the second sensor 116, with the first preset value being less than or equal to the lowest threshold of the preset range. It can be seen that when the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 gradually decreases, the power of the water pump 120 increases accordingly, increasing the water supply from the external water source 300 to the heat exchange component 111, ensuring stable operating water pressure for the gas water heater 100. When the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 gradually increases, the power of the water pump 120 decreases accordingly, reducing the supply from the external water source 300, keeping the internal water pressure within the preset range, thereby ensuring stable hot water output and greatly improving product performance.

[0050] It should be noted that the first preset value can be the lowest threshold of the preset range, or it can be lower than the lowest threshold of the preset range. Meanwhile, "negative correlation adjustment" should be understood as follows: when the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 increases, the power of the water pump 120 is reduced; when the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 decreases, the power of the water pump 120 is increased.

[0051] For easier understanding, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 Taking the first preset value as the lowest threshold of a preset range as an example, where the lowest threshold of the preset range is L1 and the highest threshold is L2; ​​X1 represents the water flow curve detected by the first sensor 115; X2 represents the operating power of the water pump 120; and X3 represents the water flow segment detected by the second sensor 116. When the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 equals L1, the water pump 120 starts. Please refer to... Figure 2 As the water flow rate detected by the second sensor 116 decreases linearly, the operating power of the water pump 120 increases accordingly. At this time, the water flow rate detected by the first sensor 115 increases within a preset range until it reaches the highest threshold L2 of the preset range. Please refer to... Figure 3When the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 gradually increases to L1, the operating power of the water pump 120 gradually decreases. At this time, the water flow detected by the first sensor 115 is always at the highest threshold L2 of the preset range. When the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 continues to increase, the water pump 120 tends to turn off.

[0052] Furthermore, please refer to Figure 1 When the second sensor 116 detects that the water flow rate is greater than or equal to the second preset value, the control module 114 controls the water pump 120 to stop running. The second preset value is within a preset range, that is, the second preset value is greater than or equal to the lowest threshold of the preset range and less than or equal to the highest threshold of the preset range. Therefore, when the water pressure in the inlet water circuit 200 is sufficient to meet the operating requirements of the heat exchange component 111, the water pump 120 does not need to be turned on. This reasonable control of the pressurization action avoids excessive pressurization that could lead to excessively high water pressure in the gas water heater 100.

[0053] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 The water heater body 110 also includes a three-way valve 117, and an inlet pipe 1111, a first connecting pipe 1121, and a second connecting pipe 1131, all connected to the three-way valve 117. The inlet pipe 1111 is connected to the inlet end of the heat exchange component 111, the first connecting pipe 1121 is connected to the inlet connector 112, and the second connecting pipe 1131 is connected to the booster connector 113. Therefore, the water heater body 110 has two water supply paths: one, the household water supply path 200, the inlet connector 112, the first connecting pipe 1121, and the inlet pipe 1111; and two, the external water source 300, the booster connector 113, the second connecting pipe 1131, and the inlet pipe 1111. This makes water supply to the heat exchange component 111 more convenient, thus making the internal water pressure more stable. In addition, by placing the first sensor 115 on the inlet pipe 1111 and the second sensor 116 on the first connecting pipe 1121, the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 is more consistent with the water flow in the inlet water circuit 200, and the water flow detected by the first sensor 115 is more consistent with the total water supply flow from the inlet water circuit 200 and the external water source 300 to the heat exchange component 111. This makes the pressure adjustment of the gas water heater 100 more precise.

[0054] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 The water heater body 110 also includes a first one-way valve 1122. The first one-way valve 1122 is provided on the first connecting pipe 1121 and is used to allow water to flow from the inlet connector 112 into the inlet pipe 1111 in one direction. In this way, the first one-way valve 1122 intercepts the water flow in the first connecting pipe 1121, preventing the water flow in the second connecting pipe 1131 from flowing back into the household water circuit 200 due to the increase in water pressure caused by starting the water pump 120.

[0055] It should be noted that the first check valve 1122 should be installed on the first connecting pipe 1121 by connecting the two first connecting pipes 1121 to the opposite ends of the first check valve 1122 respectively.

[0056] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 The water heater body 110 also includes a second one-way valve 1132. The second one-way valve 1132 is located on the second connecting pipe 1131 and allows water to flow unidirectionally from the booster connector 113 into the inlet pipe 1111. Thus, the second one-way valve 1132 intercepts the water flow in the second connecting pipe 1131, preventing water from directly flowing from the household water inlet 200 to the first connecting pipe 1121 when the water pump 120 is used to increase pressure, due to excessive water pressure in the household water inlet 200. It also prevents water from directly flowing from the household water inlet 200 to the first connecting pipe 1121 when the water pump 120 is not used to increase pressure.

[0057] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 The gas water heater 100 also includes a display component 130. The display component 130 is communicatively connected to the control module 114. Specifically, the communication connection can be wired or wireless. The display component 130 can at least be used to select the operating mode of the gas water heater 100. Therefore, the connection between the display component 130 and the control module 114 can be wired or wireless. When the connection between the display component 130 and the control module 114 is wireless, it serves as a wireless display control terminal. Since the display component 130 has at least an operating mode selection function, a suitable operating mode can be selected through the display component 130, greatly facilitating user operation and enhancing the bathing experience.

[0058] Optionally, the control module 114 may be, but is not limited to, a microcontroller, a programmable logic controller (PLC), an electronic control unit (ECU), etc.

[0059] Further, please refer to Figure 1The display component 130 is equipped with at least two mode buttons 131. One mode button 131 controls the gas water heater 100 to be in automatic mode, so that the control module 114 controls the start and stop of the water pump 120 based on the water flow detected by the second sensor 116. The other mode button 131 controls the gas water heater to be in single-use mode, so that the control module 114 directly controls the start of the water pump 120. Therefore, when one mode button 131 is pressed, the gas water heater 100 enters automatic mode, and the start and stop of its water pump 120 are triggered by the water flow detected by the second sensor 116. When the other mode button 131 is pressed, the gas water heater 100 enters single-use mode, in which case the water pump 120 can be started directly. The single-use mode is suitable for situations where there is stored water in the household but no water in the mains water line 200.

[0060] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 The display unit 130 is equipped with a temperature adjustment button 132. The temperature adjustment button 132 is used to adjust the hot water temperature in the gas water heater 100, thus making bathing more comfortable and convenient by adjusting the outlet water temperature through the temperature adjustment button 132. In addition, the display unit 130 is also equipped with a power switch 133, etc.

[0061] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 The gas water heater 100 also includes a third connecting pipe 121. The water pump 120 is connected to the booster connector 113 through the third connecting pipe 121, so that the water pump 120 can stably replenish water to the heat exchange component 111.

[0062] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 The water heater body 110 also includes a housing 140, in which the heat exchange assembly 111 and the control module 114 are both located. The water inlet connector 112 and the booster connector 113 are spaced apart on the housing 140.

[0063] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 4 A control method for a gas water heater, wherein the gas water heater 100 includes a water heater body 110 and a water pump 120, the water heater body 110 includes a heat exchange component 111, a water inlet connector 112 and a booster connector 113, the booster connector 113 and the water inlet connector 112 are connected in parallel to the water inlet end of the heat exchange component 111, and the water pump 120 is connected to the booster connector 113 and is used to connect to an external water source 300; the control method for the gas water heater includes the following steps:

[0064] S100, Start water pump 120 to deliver water from external water source 300 to heat exchange component 111;

[0065] S200, Obtain the first water flow rate entering the heat exchange component 111 and the second water flow rate entering the water inlet connector 112;

[0066] S300. Based on the change in the second water flow rate, control the operating power of the water pump 120 accordingly, so that the first water flow rate is controlled within a preset range.

[0067] The aforementioned control method for a gas water heater involves the gas water heater 100 activating the water pump 120 when the water pressure is stable. This pump drives the external water source 300 to supply water to the heat exchange component 111, compensating for insufficient water supply in the inlet water circuit 200 and ensuring that the water flow detected by the first sensor 115 remains within a preset range. Simultaneously, if the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 is unstable, for example, if the water flow detected by the second sensor 116 gradually decreases, the control module 114 controls the power adjustment of the water pump 120 to increase the water supply from the external water source 300 to the heat exchange component 111, ensuring that the water flow detected by the first sensor 115 remains stable within the preset range. Thus, the gas water heater 100 can maintain stable water pressure and a stable hot water supply without increasing the suction force of the inlet water circuit 200 during operation, thereby improving the bathing experience.

[0068] It should be noted that the control method of the gas water heater in this embodiment can be applied to the gas water heater 100 in any of the above embodiments. Meanwhile, there are various ways to start the water pump 120, such as: directly starting the water pump 120 by pressing a button on the gas water heater 100 according to the actual water pressure; or, using an automatic mode to automatically identify the actual water pressure and selectively start the water pump 120, etc.

[0069] It should also be noted that, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The change in the second water flow rate is negatively correlated with the operating power adjustment of the water pump 120. The lowest threshold of the preset range is L1, and the highest threshold is L2; ​​X1 represents the first water flow rate change curve; X2 represents the operating power of the water pump 120; X3 represents the second water flow rate segment. When the second water flow rate equals L1, the water pump 120 starts; as the second water flow rate decreases linearly, the operating power of the water pump 120 increases accordingly, and the first water flow rate increases within the preset range until it reaches the highest threshold L2 of the preset range. When the second water flow rate gradually increases to L1, the operating power of the water pump 120 gradually decreases, and the first water flow rate remains at the highest threshold L2 of the preset range; when the second water flow rate continues to increase, the water pump 120 tends to shut down. The detection of the first and second water flow rates can be achieved using, but is not limited to, water flow sensors.

[0070] Further, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 5Before step S100, starting the water pump 120 to deliver water from the external water source 300 to the heat exchange assembly 111, the method further includes:

[0071] S400, start the gas water heater 100;

[0072] S500, Input the operating mode of the gas water heater 100, wherein the operating mode includes at least automatic mode and single mode;

[0073] S600 When the gas water heater 100 meets the corresponding triggering conditions in the input operating mode, the water pump 120 is started.

[0074] Therefore, it can be seen that there are at least two corresponding operating modes for starting water pump 120, such as automatic mode and single-use mode. When the user inputs the corresponding operating mode, the gas water heater 100 will operate in different modes. If the corresponding triggering conditions are met, water pump 120 will be started. If the corresponding triggering conditions are not met, water pump 120 will not be started. This design makes the pressurization program more selective and controllable, avoiding energy waste and excessive water pressure caused by blindly starting pressurization.

[0075] It should be noted that the corresponding triggering conditions should be understood as follows: in automatic mode, the start of water pump 120 needs to meet the program set in automatic mode; in single-use mode, the start of water pump 120 needs to meet the level set in single-use mode. The respective program conditions can be designed in various ways, and can also be set according to users' bathing habits and market preferences.

[0076] Optionally, the input method for the operating mode can be, but is not limited to, key input, dial rotation input, touch screen input, etc.

[0077] Furthermore, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 6 Step S600, when the gas water heater 100 meets the corresponding triggering conditions in the input operating mode, the step of starting the water pump 120 includes:

[0078] S610. When the operating mode is automatic, obtain the first water flow rate entering the heat exchange component 111 and the second water flow rate entering the inlet connector 112.

[0079] S620. If both the first water flow rate and the second water flow rate are less than or equal to the first preset value, the water pump 120 is started, wherein the first preset value is less than or equal to the lowest threshold of the preset range.

[0080] It can be seen that in automatic mode, the start-up of water pump 120 depends on the detection of the first and second water flow rates. If both the first and second water flow rates are less than or equal to the first preset value, it indicates that the water pressure entering the heat exchange component 111 is too low, causing the gas water heater 100 to malfunction. At this time, water pump 120 is started to deliver water from the external water source 300 to the heat exchange component 111 to stabilize the water pressure and ensure the stable operation of the gas water heater 100.

[0081] Of course, if both the first water flow rate and the second water flow rate are greater than the first preset value, then there is no need to start the water pump 120. At this time, the water pump 120 is in the off state, and the gas water heater 100 can meet the user's bathing needs without pressurization.

[0082] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 7 Step S600, when the gas water heater 100 meets the corresponding triggering conditions in the input operating mode, the step of starting the water pump 120 includes:

[0083] S630. When the operating mode is single-use mode, the water pump 120 is started directly. This is more suitable for situations where there is no water in the inlet water line 200 and the gas water heater 100 cannot be started. Of course, to ensure stable operation in single-use mode, it is also necessary to ensure that there is water in the external water source 300. When the user inputs single-use mode, the water pump 120 is started directly, delivering water from the external water source 300 to the heat exchange component 111 to ensure stable operation of the gas water heater 100.

[0084] Further, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 7 The methods also include:

[0085] S640. When the single-use mode is entered again, the water pump 120 is turned off. Therefore, after selecting the single-use mode, the user can turn off the water pump 120 and stop the pressurization in the gas water heater 100 by entering the single-use mode again.

[0086] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 8 After step S100, starting the water pump 120 to deliver water from the external water source 300 to the heat exchange assembly 111, the method further includes:

[0087] S700: Monitor water pump 120 to determine whether water pump 120 is running dry.

[0088] S800 When the idling state of water pump 120 meets the preset conditions, water pump 120 is turned off and the operation mode is exited.

[0089] Therefore, after the water pump 120 is started, its operation can be monitored to avoid the water pump 120 running idle, which would lead to energy waste and equipment burnout.

[0090] It should be noted that "idle running state" should be understood as the water pump 120 being unable to pump water from the external water source 300 to the heat exchange component 111, or simply as the water pump 120 not pumping water during operation. Furthermore, there are multiple ways to detect the idling of the water pump 120, such as detecting the water flow rate at the output of the water pump 120, or detecting the rotational state of the impeller in the water pump 120.

[0091] It should also be noted that the monitoring of the water pump 120 idling is not limited to the one-time start-up of the water pump 120 in step S100, but is applicable to the entire control process. For example, once the water pump 120 is started, it will trigger the operation of steps S700 and S800 to ensure the stable operation of the water pump 120.

[0092] Further, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 9 Step S800, when the idling state of water pump 120 meets the preset conditions, the step of turning off water pump 120 and exiting the operation mode includes:

[0093] S810. After the water pump 120 has been running idle for a first preset time, the water pump 120 is turned off.

[0094] S820. After the second preset time, if the first water flow rate entering the heat exchange component 111 and the second water flow rate entering the inlet connector 112 are both less than or equal to the first preset value, the water pump 120 is restarted and the judgment is performed on whether the water pump 120 is in an idling state, wherein the first preset value is less than or equal to the lowest threshold of the preset range.

[0095] S830. If so, repeat the above two steps at least once.

[0096] S840. If the water pump 120 is still running dry, turn off the water pump 120 and exit the operation mode.

[0097] Therefore, in the process of judging idling, this embodiment uses the original program to compare the first water flow rate and the second water flow rate with the first preset value to determine whether the water pump 120 is in a normal pumping state. No additional detection equipment is needed, which makes the detection of the water pump 120 simpler; at the same time, it is also conducive to reducing the production cost of the gas water heater 100.

[0098] It should be noted that "repeating the above two steps at least once" should be understood as: when executing step S830, steps S810 and S820 are executed sequentially at least once. For example, if so, after the water pump 120 has been running idle for a first preset time, the water pump 120 is turned off; after a second preset time, if the first water flow rate entering the heat exchange component 111 and the second water flow rate entering the water inlet connector 112 are both less than or equal to the first preset value, the water pump 120 is restarted and the determination of whether the water pump 120 is running idle is performed.

[0099] Specifically, the above two steps are repeated twice, that is, steps S810 and S820 are executed a total of three times during the idling detection.

[0100] It should also be noted that the first and second preset times can be determined according to user needs. For example, both the first and second preset times can be 5 to 15 seconds, or 8 to 12 seconds, etc.

[0101] Specifically, both the first preset time and the second preset time are 10 seconds.

[0102] Alternatively, if not, after step S820 is executed, the water pump 120 continues to run, and step S200 is executed.

[0103] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 10 The specific process of the gas water heater 100 in automatic mode is as follows: Start the gas water heater 100; select automatic mode; while the water heater is running, collect the first water flow rate and the second water flow rate; determine whether the first water flow rate and the second water flow rate are less than or equal to the first preset value. If not, do not start the water pump 120; if yes, start the water pump 120; after the water pump 120 starts, check whether the water pump 120 continuously idles for 10 seconds. If yes, repeat the check twice. If it is still the same, turn off the automatic mode; if not, continue to collect the first water flow rate and the second water flow rate; then, control the first water flow rate within the preset range using the water pump 120, and adjust the operating power of the water pump 120 according to the change in the second water flow rate; determine whether the second water flow rate is greater than or equal to the second preset value. If not, continue to check whether the water pump 120 is idling. If yes, turn off the water pump 120.

[0104] In another embodiment, please refer to Figure 11The specific process of the gas water heater 100 in single-use mode is as follows: start the gas water heater 100; select single-use mode; start the water pump 120; after the water pump 120 starts, determine whether to select single-use mode again. If yes, turn off the water pump 120. If no, determine whether the water pump 120 has been running idle for 10 seconds. If yes, repeat the determination twice. If it is still yes, turn off the automatic mode. If no, continue to collect the first water flow and the second water flow. Then, control the first water flow within the preset range through the water pump 120, and adjust the operating power of the water pump 120 according to the change of the second water flow. Determine whether the second water flow is greater than or equal to the second preset value. If no, continue to determine whether the water pump 120 is running idle. If yes, turn off the water pump 120 and exit the single-use mode.

[0105] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0106] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0107] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; 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; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0108] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than or equal to the second feature.

[0109] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0110] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0111] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementations of the present invention, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these all fall within the protection scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of this invention patent should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A control method for a gas water heater, wherein the gas water heater (100) includes a water heater body (110) and a water pump (120), the water heater body (110) includes a heat exchange component (111), a water inlet connector (112) and a booster connector (113), the booster connector (113) and the water inlet connector (112) are connected in parallel to the water inlet end of the heat exchange component (111), and the water pump (120) is connected to the booster connector (113) and is used to connect to an external water source (300); characterized in that The control method for the gas water heater includes the following steps: Start the gas water heater (100); Input the operating mode of the gas water heater (100), wherein the operating mode includes at least automatic mode and single mode; When the gas water heater (100) meets the corresponding triggering conditions in the input operating mode, the water pump (120) is started; Start the water pump (120) to deliver water from the external water source (300) to the heat exchange assembly (111); The water pump (120) is monitored to determine whether it is running dry. When the idling state of the water pump (120) meets the preset conditions, the water pump (120) is turned off and the operation mode is exited. Specifically, after the idling state of the water pump (120) continues for a first preset time, the water pump (120) is turned off. After a second preset time, if the first water flow rate entering the heat exchange component (111) and the second water flow rate entering the water inlet connector (112) are both less than or equal to the first preset value, the water pump (120) is restarted and a judgment is made on whether the water pump (120) is in an idling state. Specifically, the first preset value is less than or equal to the lowest threshold of the preset range. If so, the above two steps are repeated at least once. If the water pump (120) is still in an idling state, the water pump (120) is turned off and the operation mode is exited. Obtain the first water flow rate entering the heat exchange assembly (111) and the second water flow rate entering the water inlet connector (112); Based on the change in the second water flow rate, the operating power of the water pump (120) is controlled accordingly so that the first water flow rate is controlled within a preset range.

2. The control method of the gas water heater according to claim 1, characterized by, When the gas water heater (100) meets the corresponding triggering conditions in the input operating mode, the step of starting the water pump (120) is executed, including: When the operating mode is automatic, the first water flow rate entering the heat exchange component (111) and the second water flow rate entering the inlet connector (112) are obtained; If both the first water flow rate and the second water flow rate are less than or equal to the first preset value, the water pump (120) is started, wherein the first preset value is less than or equal to the lowest threshold of the preset range.

3. The control method of the gas water heater according to claim 1, characterized by, When the gas water heater (100) meets the corresponding triggering conditions in the input operating mode, the step of starting the water pump (120) is executed, including: When the operating mode is single-use mode, the water pump (120) is started directly.

4. The control method for a gas water heater according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the single-use mode is entered again, the water pump (120) is turned off.

5. A gas water heater, employing the control method for a gas water heater as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The gas water heater (100) includes: The water heater body (110) includes a heat exchange component (111), a water inlet connector (112), a pressure booster connector (113), a control module (114), and a first sensor (115) and a second sensor (116) electrically connected to the control module (114). The pressure booster connector (113) and the water inlet connector (112) are connected in parallel to the water inlet end of the heat exchange component (111). The water inlet connector (112) is used to connect to the household water supply line (200). The first sensor (115) is used to detect the flow rate of water flowing into or out of the heat exchange component (111). The second sensor (116) is used to detect the flow rate of water flowing into the water inlet connector (112). A water pump (120) is connected to the booster connector (113) and used to connect to an external water source (300). The control module (114) controls the start-up or power adjustment of the water pump (120) according to the water flow detected by the second sensor (116) so that the water flow detected by the first sensor (115) is controlled within a preset range.

6. The gas water heater according to claim 5, characterized in that, The water heater body (110) also includes a three-way valve (117), and an inlet pipe (1111), a first connecting pipe (1121), and a second connecting pipe (1131) respectively connected to the three-way valve (117). The inlet pipe (1111) is connected to the inlet end of the heat exchange component (111), the first connecting pipe (1121) is connected to the inlet connector (112), and the second connecting pipe (1131) is connected to the booster connector (113). The first sensor (115) is located on the inlet pipe (1111), and the second sensor (116) is located on the first connecting pipe (1121).

7. The gas water heater according to claim 6, characterized in that, The water heater body (110) also includes a first one-way valve (1122), which is disposed on the first connecting pipe (1121) and is used to allow water to flow unidirectionally from the water inlet connector (112) into the water inlet pipe (1111).

8. The gas water heater according to claim 6, characterized in that, The water heater body (110) also includes a second one-way valve (1132), which is located on the second connecting pipe (1131) and is used to allow water to flow unidirectionally from the booster connector (113) into the inlet pipe (1111).

9. The gas water heater according to claim 5, characterized in that, The gas water heater (100) also includes a display component (130), which is communicatively connected to the control module (114). The display component (130) can at least be used to select the operating mode of the gas water heater (100).

10. The gas water heater according to claim 9, characterized in that, The display component (130) is provided with at least two mode buttons (131). One mode button (131) is used to control the gas water heater (100) to be in automatic mode, so that the control module (114) controls the water pump (120) to start and stop according to the water flow detected by the second sensor (116). The other mode button (131) is used to control the gas water heater to be in single-use mode, so that the control module (114) directly controls the water pump (120) to start.

11. The gas water heater according to claim 9, characterized in that, The display component (130) is provided with a temperature adjustment button (132), which is used to adjust the temperature of the hot water in the gas water heater (100).

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