Anti-freezing method and device, water heater and storage medium

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of anti-freezing method, device, water heater and storage medium, the method includes: detecting the temperature value of water body at the junction of water heater and pipeline;From a plurality of anti-freezing grades, the anti-freezing grade that is adapted to temperature value is selected as target grade;According to target grade, anti-freezing operation is executed to preheating circulation system, and anti-freezing operation at least includes controlling electric heater and / or gas heater to heat water body, the amplitude of heating in preheating circulation system in anti-freezing operation is positively correlated with target grade.This embodiment reflects the temperature distribution of preheating circulation system to some extent by the temperature value of water body at the junction of water heater and pipeline, thereby dividing a plurality of anti-freezing grades, taking into account the characteristics of electric heater, gas heater, combined with a variety of anti-freezing operations, high flexibility, corresponding anti-freezing effect is obtained, guarantee the safety of water heater, pipeline and other equipment in preheating circulation system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of water heaters, and more particularly to an antifreeze method, device, water heater, and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] Water heaters are one of the most commonly used household appliances, providing hot water. In autumn and winter, when the ambient temperature is low, if water in the pipes inside the water heater and in the surrounding environment is not drained in time, it can easily freeze and expand, causing the pipes to rupture, damaging the water heater, or even leaking water and soaking and damaging materials in the surrounding environment.

[0003] Currently, some water heaters are equipped with anti-backflow devices to prevent cold air from flowing back into the water heater through the flue and slow down the temperature drop inside the water heater. However, due to the poor sealing of the anti-backflow devices, in some low-latitude areas where the ambient temperature is low, the problem of water expanding and freezing is still quite serious. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides an antifreeze method, device, water heater, and storage medium to solve the problem of how to improve the efficiency of water heater antifreeze.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, an antifreeze method is provided, applied to a water heater in a preheating circulation system, wherein the heat exchanger for heating water in the water heater includes an electric heater and a gas heater, the method comprising:

[0006] Detect the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipe;

[0007] The antifreeze level that matches the stated temperature value is selected from multiple antifreeze levels and used as the target level;

[0008] According to the target level, the preheating circulation system is subjected to antifreeze operation, which includes at least controlling the electric heater and / or the gas heater to heat the water. The amount of heating in the preheating circulation system during the antifreeze operation is positively correlated with the target level.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present invention, an antifreeze device is provided for use in a water heater in a preheating circulation system, wherein the heat exchanger for heating water in the water heater includes an electric heater and a gas heater, and the device includes:

[0010] The temperature detection module is used to detect the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipe;

[0011] The target level filtering module is used to filter out the antifreeze level that matches the temperature value from multiple antifreeze levels, and use it as the target level;

[0012] A target antifreeze module is used to perform antifreeze operations on the preheating circulation system according to the target level. The antifreeze operation includes at least controlling the electric heater and / or the gas heater to heat the water. The amount of heating in the preheating circulation system during the antifreeze operation is positively correlated with the target level.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present invention, a water heater is provided, the water heater comprising:

[0014] At least one processor; and

[0015] A memory communicatively connected to the at least one processor; wherein,

[0016] The memory stores a computer program that can be executed by the at least one processor, the computer program being executed by the at least one processor to enable the at least one processor to perform the antifreeze method according to any embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] According to another aspect of the present invention, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, the computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program configured to cause a processor to execute and implement the antifreeze method according to any embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] The antifreeze method, device, water heater, and storage medium described in this invention have the following specific advantages compared to the previous methods:

[0019] The temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipes is detected; the antifreeze level matching the temperature value is selected from multiple antifreeze levels as the target level; antifreeze operation is performed on the preheating circulation system according to the target level. The antifreeze operation includes at least controlling the electric heater and / or gas heater to heat the water. The heating amplitude in the preheating circulation system during the antifreeze operation is positively correlated with the target level. This embodiment reflects the temperature distribution of the preheating circulation system to a certain extent by using the temperature value of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipes, thereby classifying multiple antifreeze levels. It takes into account the characteristics of electric heaters and gas heaters, combining various antifreeze operations, which is highly flexible and achieves the corresponding antifreeze effect, ensuring the safety of equipment such as water heaters and pipes in the preheating circulation system. Furthermore, controlling the electric heater and gas heater as needed can take advantage of the advantages of electric heaters in terms of quietness, energy saving, and reduced damage, and the advantages of gas heaters in terms of heating efficiency.

[0020] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of the present invention, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the invention. Other features of the invention will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0021] 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.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of an antifreeze method provided according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a water heater according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of an antifreeze method provided according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of an antifreeze device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a water heater provided in Embodiment 4 of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0027] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0028] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0029] Example 1

[0030] Figure 1This is a flowchart of an antifreeze method provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. This embodiment is applicable to situations where an electric heater and / or a gas heater in a water heater are used for step-by-step antifreeze. The method can be executed by an antifreeze device, which can be implemented in hardware and / or software. This antifreeze device is applied to a water heater in a preheating circulation system, and the water heater is equipped with an electric heater and a gas heater. Figure 1 As shown, the method includes:

[0031] Step 101: Detect the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipe.

[0032] In practical applications, users install water heaters that support zero cold water function in buildings such as houses and dormitories. The water heaters can be powered by strong electricity. Multiple water-using devices (i.e., devices that use water when running, also known as water points) are installed in different building spaces of these buildings. The water heater outputs hot water (i.e., heated water) through pipes to provide hot water to multiple water-using devices. Thus, the water heater, pipes, water-using devices and other equipment form a hot water circulation system.

[0033] like Figure 2 As shown, the internal components of the water heater include a flue pipe 201, an electric heater 202, a first temperature sensor 203, a thermostatic valve 204, a second temperature sensor 205, a smoke hood 206, a heat exchanger 207, a display 208, a controller 209, a burner 210, a gas valve 211, a water pump 212, a water flow sensor 213, and a third temperature sensor 214.

[0034] Among them, the heat exchangers used to heat water in water heaters include electric heaters and gas heaters. A heat exchanger can refer to a device that converts other forms of energy into heat energy in water. The heat exchanger realizes the function of heating water and outputs the heated water to various water-using devices to provide users with heated water.

[0035] The electric heater 202 is a subsystem that uses electrical energy to heat water. That is, the electric heater 202 is a device that converts electrical energy into heat energy. The electric heater 202 may include components such as an electric heating chamber, an electric heating tube, an overheat protection thermostat, and an insulation layer. The electric heating chamber has a considerable volume (e.g., 3L) and can be used to store water. The electric heating tube can heat the water. The overheat protection thermostat can activate the corresponding protection function when the temperature exceeds a certain threshold. The insulation layer may contain one or more layers of insulation material, such as polyurethane material.

[0036] A gas heater is a subsystem that uses gas (such as natural gas, coal gas, etc.) to heat water. That is, a gas heater is a device that converts chemical energy into thermal energy. A gas heater may include components such as a heat exchanger 207, a burner 210, and a gas valve 211. Gas enters the water heater from the gas inlet 217. The gas valve 211 is used to open or close the gas supply channel, regulate the gas flow, and inject gas into the burner 210. In the burner 210, the gas and air are guided to burn slowly and thoroughly. The heat exchanger 207 transfers the heat of the high-temperature flue gas generated by the combustion of gas to the water, thereby raising the temperature of the water. The heat exchanger 207 has an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe, which extend to the cold water inlet 215 and the hot water outlet 216, respectively.

[0037] In addition, a gas heater (especially a heat exchanger 207), an electric heater 202, and a thermostatic valve 204 are sequentially installed on the main water pipe of the water heater. A branch water pipe is connected in parallel with the electric heater 202 and is connected to the thermostatic valve 204. That is, the water from the gas heater can flow in two directions. One direction flows through the main water pipe to the electric heater 202, which can choose to heat or not heat the water. The other direction flows to the branch water pipe. The water flowing out of the electric heater 202 flows through inlet 1 and the water flowing out of the branch water pipe flows through inlet 2 to the thermostatic valve 204. The thermostatic valve 204 can adjust the flow ratio between the inlet of the main water pipe where the electric heater 202 is located and the inlet of the branch water pipe, and adjust the water temperature to achieve the function of constant water temperature.

[0038] The first temperature sensor 203 is located between the electric heater 202 and the thermostatic valve 204, and the second temperature sensor 205 is located between the thermostatic valve 204 and the hot water outlet 216. The first temperature sensor 203 can detect the temperature value of the water flowing out of the electric heater 202 in the main water pipe before it flows into the thermostatic valve 204, and the temperature sensor 205 can detect the temperature value of the water flowing out of the thermostatic valve 204 in the main water pipe and the branch water pipe. This temperature value is also called the outlet water temperature value.

[0039] The third temperature sensor 214 is located between the water flow sensor 213 and the cold water inlet 215. The third temperature sensor 214 detects the temperature value of the water flowing into the main water pipe, which is also called the inlet water temperature value.

[0040] The controller 209 is located inside the water heater and serves as its control center. It connects to all components of the water heater through various interfaces and lines. By running or executing software programs and / or modules stored in the memory, and by calling data stored in the memory, it performs various functions of the water heater and processes data, thereby providing overall monitoring of the water heater.

[0041] The display 208 can be configured with mechanical buttons or can be a touch screen itself, and can be installed on the water heater casing to facilitate users to browse information and perform control operations on the water heater.

[0042] Of course, users can also control the water heater using a separate remote control or by installing an application on a mobile device such as a smartphone; this embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0043] In practical applications, water-using equipment can be mechanical devices, such as shower heads and faucets, or electronic devices, such as water purifiers and kettles.

[0044] In addition to water-using equipment that uses hot water, other equipment that uses cold water but not hot water can also be installed in these buildings, and this embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0045] For water heaters that support zero cold water function, there are two installation methods: with a return pipe and without a return pipe. The requirements for water pipes are also different for different installation methods.

[0046] For installation methods with and without return water pipes, when installing a water heater, the water heater is connected to the cold water main pipe and the hot water main pipe. The cold water main pipe and the hot water main pipe are laid in the walls or floor of the building and pass through various water-using devices.

[0047] Each water-using device is connected to a cold water branch pipe (pipe) and a hot water branch pipe (pipe). For the same water-using device, the hot water main pipe is connected to the hot water branch pipe, and the cold water main pipe is connected to the cold water branch pipe.

[0048] When the water-using equipment is running, hot water can flow from the hot water main pipe through the hot water branch pipe to the water-using equipment, and cold water can flow from the cold water main pipe through the cold water branch pipe to the water-using equipment. The water-using equipment can use the water from the hot water branch pipe and the cold water branch pipe at the same time and adjust the ratio between the water from the hot water branch pipe and the cold water branch pipe.

[0049] For installations without a return pipe, a return device (including pipes) is installed between the hot water branch pipe and the cold water branch pipe for the same water-using equipment. The return device can be powered by high voltage and has a one-way shut-off valve that can control the opening or closing of the return pipe. Its inlet is located in the hot water branch pipe and its outlet is located in the cold water branch pipe. The water flows from the inlet to the outlet, and the outlet cannot return water.

[0050] For installations with a return water pipe, a return water device (including pipes) is installed near the same water-using equipment between the return water pipe and the hot water main pipe. The return water device can be powered by high voltage and has a one-way shut-off valve to control the opening or closing of the pipe. Its inlet is located in the return water pipe and its outlet is located in the cold water main pipe. Water flows from the inlet to the outlet, and water cannot flow back from the outlet.

[0051] In practical applications, water heaters can provide antifreeze functions. Water heaters can turn the antifreeze function on or off by default at the factory. Users can also set the antifreeze function to be turned on or off according to the installation environment of the water heater. This embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0052] If the water heater is in standby mode and the antifreeze function is turned on, it can detect the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipes at regular intervals, and detect the temperature distribution of the preheating circulation system in real time, thereby deciding whether to activate the antifreeze function to ensure the real-time performance of the antifreeze function.

[0053] On the one hand, a third temperature sensor can be used to detect the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the cold water pipe, which is used as the inlet water temperature. The inlet water temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is read at regular intervals. The cold water pipe is the pipe that brings water into the water heater through the inlet. Since the water flows from the pipe outside the building into the pipe of the preheating circulation system and then to the water heater, the inlet water temperature can reflect the temperature of the surrounding environment of the pipe in the preheating circulation system (i.e., the ambient temperature) to a certain extent.

[0054] On the other hand, a second temperature sensor can be used to detect the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the hot water pipe, which is then used as the outlet water temperature. The outlet water temperature detected by the second temperature sensor can be read at regular intervals. The hot water pipe is the pipe that outputs water from the water heater through the outlet. After the water flows into the water heater, it passes through components such as a gas heater (especially a transducer) and an electric heater. These components can heat the water, which then flows to the pipes in the preheating circulation system and is supplied to various water-using devices. Therefore, the outlet water temperature can reflect the temperature inside the water heater in the preheating circulation system (i.e., the internal temperature of the water heater) to a certain extent.

[0055] Step 102: Select the antifreeze level that matches the temperature value from multiple antifreeze levels and use it as the target level.

[0056] In this embodiment, multiple low-temperature-related antifreeze levels can be set for the antifreeze function of the water heater in advance based on factors such as the functional differences of the water heater and the functional differences of the preheating circulation system. Each antifreeze level represents a different temperature distribution of the preheating circulation system. Generally, the temperature distribution of the preheating circulation system is negatively correlated with the antifreeze level. That is, the lower the temperature distribution of the preheating circulation system, the higher the antifreeze level, and vice versa.

[0057] If the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipe is detected, the multiple antifreeze levels set for the current circulating preheating system can be queried. The antifreeze level that matches the temperature value can be selected from the multiple antifreeze levels and recorded as the target level.

[0058] In one embodiment of the present invention, step 102 may include the following steps:

[0059] Step 1021: Query the multiple temperature ranges configured for each of the multiple antifreeze levels.

[0060] Step 1022: Query the temperature range containing the temperature value among multiple temperature ranges, and use it as the target range.

[0061] Step 1023: Extract the antifreeze level corresponding to the target range and use it as the target level.

[0062] In this embodiment, a temperature range can be pre-configured for each antifreeze level through experiments or other means. Thus, multiple antifreeze levels can be configured with multiple temperature ranges. The mapping relationship between multiple antifreeze levels and multiple temperature ranges can be stored in the form of configuration files, tables, etc., and pre-set locally on the water heater before it leaves the factory. Subsequently, based on factors such as installation location, accessory upgrades, and firmware upgrades, the server maintains the mapping relationship and pushes it to the water heater for updates.

[0063] Generally, multiple antifreeze levels are continuous, and therefore the temperature ranges are also continuous. The antifreeze function mainly prevents low-temperature water from freezing, so multiple temperature ranges mainly cover temperature values ​​near the freezing point.

[0064] When the water heater activates its antifreeze function, it reads the mapping relationship between multiple antifreeze levels and multiple temperature ranges locally in the water heater. It then queries the temperature range in which the current temperature value is located within this mapping relationship and records it as the target range. That is, the target range includes the current temperature value. At this time, it reads the antifreeze level mapped to the target range from this mapping relationship and records it as the target level.

[0065] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand this embodiment, the following specific examples illustrate the antifreeze level in this embodiment.

[0066] In this example, the temperature value includes the inlet water temperature value T. 进 Outlet water temperature T 出 The antifreeze rating includes Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. The temperature range configured for Level 1 antifreeze is called the Level 1 range, the temperature range configured for Level 2 antifreeze is called the Level 2 range, and the temperature range configured for Level 3 antifreeze is called the Level 3 range. The values ​​in the Level 1 range are higher than those in the Level 2 range, and the values ​​in the Level 2 range are higher than those in the Level 3 range. The Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 ranges are numerically consecutive. For example, the Level 1 range is (4℃, 5℃), the Level 2 range is (3℃, 4℃), and the Level 3 range is (0℃, 3℃).

[0067] Water temperature value T 进 Outlet water temperature T 出 Compare with the first-level range, the second-level range, and the third-level range respectively.

[0068] If the water temperature value T 进 Outlet water temperature T 出 If all values ​​are greater than the first level range, then it can be determined that the antifreeze function will not be activated.

[0069] If the inlet water temperature is T 进 Or the water outlet temperature value T 出 If it falls within the first-level range, then the first-level range is determined as the target range.

[0070] If the inlet water temperature is T 进 Or the water outlet temperature value T 出 If it falls within the second-level range, then the second-level range is determined as the target range.

[0071] If the inlet water temperature is T 进 Or the water outlet temperature value T 出 If it falls within the level three range, then the level three range is determined as the target range.

[0072] If the target range is a Level 1 range, then extract the Level 1 antifreeze corresponding to the Level 1 range as the target level.

[0073] If the target range is a secondary range, then the secondary antifreeze level corresponding to the secondary range is extracted as the target level.

[0074] If the target range is a level 3 range, then extract the level 3 antifreeze corresponding to the level 3 range as the target level.

[0075] Of course, the above-mentioned antifreeze levels are merely examples. When implementing the embodiments of the present invention, other antifreeze levels can be set according to actual conditions, such as Level 1 antifreeze, Level 2 antifreeze, Level 3 antifreeze, Level 4 antifreeze, etc. The embodiments of the present invention do not limit this. In addition, besides the above-mentioned antifreeze levels, those skilled in the art can also use other antifreeze levels according to actual needs, and the embodiments of the present invention do not limit this either.

[0076] Step 103: Perform antifreeze operation on the preheating circulation system according to the target level.

[0077] When the target level is determined, the antifreeze function can be activated, controlling the electric heater and / or gas heater to perform antifreeze operations on the preheating circulation system equivalent to the target level.

[0078] In practical applications, antifreeze operation includes at least controlling electric heaters and / or gas heaters to heat water. Electric heaters and gas heaters differ in terms of heating efficiency, noise, cost, and impact on the lifespan of water heaters. Therefore, the electric heaters and / or gas heaters can be selectively controlled to perform antifreeze operation on the preheating circulation system, taking into account the impact of each aspect for the target level.

[0079] For example, electric heaters mainly rely on electricity to heat water, while gas heaters mainly rely on gas to heat water. The efficiency of converting chemical energy into heat energy is higher than that of converting electrical energy into heat energy. Therefore, gas heaters are more efficient at heating water than electric heaters.

[0080] For example, gas heaters burn gas and start fans when heating water, which generates more noise and causes more damage to the water heater. Electric heaters, on the other hand, mainly use electric heating elements. Therefore, the noise generated by electric heaters when heating water is lower than that generated by gas heaters when heating water by burning gas. This can keep the environment quiet, reduce damage to the water heater, and extend the life of the water heater.

[0081] In this embodiment, corresponding antifreeze operations can be configured in advance for each antifreeze level based on factors such as the functional differences of the water heater and the functional differences of the preheating circulation system. These antifreeze operations are operations that the water heater can perform.

[0082] Multiple antifreeze levels can be configured with multiple antifreeze operations. The mapping relationship between multiple antifreeze levels and multiple antifreeze operations can be stored in the form of configuration files, tables, etc., and is preset locally on the water heater before it leaves the factory. Subsequently, the server maintains the mapping relationship based on factors such as installation location, accessory upgrades, firmware upgrades, etc., and pushes it to the water heater for updates.

[0083] Among them, the heating amplitude of the antifreeze operation in the preheating cycle system is positively correlated with the target level. That is, the higher the target level ranks among all antifreeze levels, the greater the heating amplitude of the antifreeze operation in the preheating cycle system. Conversely, the lower the target level ranks among all antifreeze levels, the smaller the heating amplitude of the antifreeze operation in the preheating cycle system.

[0084] Furthermore, the extent of heating in the preheating cycle system during antifreeze operation can refer to the range of heating in the preheating cycle system during antifreeze operation, or it can refer to the temperature at which the antifreeze operation is heated in the preheating cycle system, and so on.

[0085] If an antifreeze operation is determined, the antifreeze operation configured for the current target level can be queried in the local mapping relationship. At least the electric heater and / or gas heater should be controlled to heat the water, thereby performing the antifreeze operation on the preheating circulation system.

[0086] For example, the antifreeze level includes level one antifreeze, level two antifreeze and level three antifreeze. A gas heater, an electric heater and a thermostatic valve are installed sequentially on the main water pipe of the water heater. A branch water pipe is connected in parallel with the electric heater and the branch water pipe is connected to the thermostatic valve.

[0087] In this example, if the target level is Level 1 antifreeze, the antifreeze operation includes at least heating the water with an electric heater. In addition to heating the water with an electric heater, it may also include adjusting a thermostatic valve, which can control the electric heater to heat the water and open the thermostatic valve to the first position.

[0088] Among them, the electric heater can raise the temperature of the water in the electric heating chamber to a certain extent, and the heated water can raise the temperature of the internal pipes of the water heater to a certain extent, thus achieving the effect of antifreeze.

[0089] In addition, the first position can refer to the middle position. At this time, the opening degree of the thermostatic valve towards the main water pipe and the opening degree towards the branch water pipe are within the preset error range. This allows a certain amount of heated water to wait to flow into the pipes of the preheating circulation system. When the water-using equipment uses the water, a certain amount of heated water quickly flows into the pipes of the preheating circulation system, which to a certain extent increases the temperature of the pipes in the preheating circulation system and achieves the effect of antifreeze.

[0090] If the target level is Level 2 antifreeze, the antifreeze operation includes at least heating the water with an electric heater and preheating circulation. In addition to heating the water with an electric heater and preheating circulation, it may also include adjusting the thermostatic valve. Then, the electric heater is controlled to heat the water, and the heated water is circulated in the pipeline of the preheating circulation system, and the thermostatic valve is opened to the second position.

[0091] Among them, the electric heater can increase the temperature of the water in the electric heating chamber to a certain extent, and the heated water can increase the temperature of the internal pipes of the water heater to a certain extent. The preheating circulation can increase the temperature of the pipes in the preheating circulation system to a certain extent, thus achieving the effect of antifreeze.

[0092] Preheating circulation can refer to the water heater starting the water pump, which draws unheated water (i.e., cold water) from the cold water main and heats it, then outputs heated water (i.e., hot water) to the hot water main. The water heater communicates with the return water pipe corresponding to the water-using equipment to control the flow of the return water pipe (including pipelines). The hot water main, hot water branch pipe, and cold water branch pipe form a passage, and water can flow from the hot water main through the hot water branch pipe and the target equipment to the cold water branch pipe. The temperature of the water in the cold water branch pipe gradually rises.

[0093] If a water-using device uses both hot and cold water branch pipes simultaneously, the water output from the device will be hot water, achieving the function of zero cold water, since both the hot and cold water branch pipes are heated (i.e., hot water).

[0094] Because the cold water branch pipe and the hot water branch pipe are separate, the hot water branch pipe does not continuously supply hot water to the cold water branch pipe. The cold water branch pipe is mainly supplied with cold water by the cold water main pipe. The cold water branch pipe outputs cold water after the hot water supplied by the hot water branch pipe is output in the early stage, which can avoid cross-contamination between the cold water branch pipe and the hot water branch pipe.

[0095] In addition, the second position can refer to the main line position. In this position, the opening degree of the thermostatic valve biased towards the main line water pipe is greater than the opening degree biased towards the branch line water pipe. In comparison, the opening degree biased towards the main line water pipe in the second position is greater than the opening degree biased towards the main line water pipe in the first position. This increases the amount of heated water flowing directly into the pipes of the preheating circulation system, allowing a large amount of heated water to flow directly into the pipes of the preheating circulation system, effectively increasing the temperature of the pipes in the preheating circulation system and achieving the effect of antifreeze.

[0096] If the target level is level three antifreeze, the antifreeze operation includes at least heating the water with a gas heater and preheating circulation. In addition to heating the water with a gas heater and preheating circulation, it can also include adjusting the thermostatic valve. This can control the gas heater to heat the water, and circulate the heated water in the pipeline of the preheating circulation system, and open the thermostatic valve to the third position.

[0097] Among them, the gas heater can effectively increase the temperature of the water in the electric heating chamber of the electric heater. The heated water can effectively increase the temperature of the pipes inside the water heater. The preheating circulation can effectively increase the temperature of the pipes in the preheating circulation system, thus achieving the effect of antifreeze.

[0098] In addition, the third position can refer to the main line position. At this time, the opening degree of the thermostatic valve biased towards the main line water pipe is greater than the opening degree biased towards the branch line water pipe. In comparison, the opening degree biased towards the main line water pipe in the third position is greater than or equal to the opening degree biased towards the main line water pipe in the second position. This increases the amount of heated water flowing directly into the pipes of the preheating circulation system, allowing a large amount of heated water to flow directly into the pipes of the preheating circulation system, effectively increasing the temperature of the pipes in the preheating circulation system and achieving the effect of antifreeze.

[0099] If an antifreeze operation includes a preheating cycle (that is, the heated water is circulated in the pipes of the preheating cycle system), the water pump will be started during the preheating cycle. The water flow sensor can be called to count the water volume. If the water pump is abnormal (such as failing to start) or the water volume is abnormal (less than the preset threshold), the antifreeze operation can be stopped and an alarm operation can be performed to indicate the water pump abnormality. For example, an alarm code can be displayed on the monitor, an alarm sound can be emitted, etc.

[0100] Of course, the above-described antifreeze operations are merely examples. When implementing this embodiment of the invention, other antifreeze operations can be set according to actual conditions. For example, when adding a fourth level of antifreeze, the corresponding antifreeze operation is to control the electric heater and gas heater to simultaneously heat the water, circulate the heated water in the preheating circulation system's pipes, open the thermostatic valve to the fourth position, where the opening degree of the fourth position towards the main water pipe is greater than or equal to the opening degree of the third position towards the main water pipe, and so on. This embodiment of the invention does not limit these operations. Furthermore, besides the above-described antifreeze operations, those skilled in the art can also employ other antifreeze operations according to actual needs, and this embodiment of the invention does not limit these operations either.

[0101] In this embodiment, the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipe is detected; the antifreeze level that matches the temperature value is selected from multiple antifreeze levels as the target level; antifreeze operation is performed on the preheating circulation system according to the target level. The antifreeze operation includes at least controlling the electric heater and / or gas heater to heat the water. The heating amplitude in the preheating circulation system during the antifreeze operation is positively correlated with the target level. This embodiment reflects the temperature distribution of the preheating circulation system to a certain extent by using the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipe, thereby classifying multiple antifreeze levels. It takes into account the characteristics of electric heaters and gas heaters, combining various antifreeze operations, which is highly flexible and achieves the corresponding antifreeze effect, ensuring the safety of equipment such as water heaters and pipes in the preheating circulation system. Furthermore, controlling the electric heater and gas heater as needed can take advantage of the advantages of electric heaters in terms of quietness, energy saving, and reduced damage, and the advantages of gas heaters in terms of heating efficiency.

[0102] Example 2

[0103] Figure 3This is a flowchart of an antifreeze method provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. This embodiment adds a process for exiting or upgrading the antifreeze operation based on the previous embodiment. Figure 3 As shown, the method includes:

[0104] Step 301: Detect the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipe.

[0105] Step 302: Select the antifreeze level that matches the temperature value from multiple antifreeze levels and use it as the target level.

[0106] Step 303: Perform antifreeze operation on the preheating circulation system according to the target level.

[0107] Step 304: Compare the temperature value with the shutdown conditions configured for the target level.

[0108] In this embodiment, the antifreeze effect when performing antifreeze operation for each antifreeze level can be calculated in advance based on experimental statistics. The expected ideal antifreeze effect can be summarized, and the temperature value of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipe can be analyzed to obtain the shut-off conditions, that is, the conditions for shutting off the antifreeze operation when the expected antifreeze effect is achieved. Corresponding shut-off conditions can be configured for each antifreeze level.

[0109] Multiple antifreeze levels can be configured with multiple off settings. The mapping relationship between multiple antifreeze levels and multiple antifreeze off settings can be stored in the form of configuration files, tables, etc. It is pre-set locally on the water heater before it leaves the factory. Subsequently, based on factors such as installation location, accessory upgrades, firmware upgrades, etc., the server maintains the mapping relationship and pushes it to the water heater for updates.

[0110] During the process of activating the antifreeze function of the water heater, the current target level can be determined, and the corresponding shutdown condition can be queried from the mapping relationship. The temperature value of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipe can be compared with the shutdown condition.

[0111] In practical implementation, the temperature value includes the inlet water temperature value T. 进 Outlet water temperature T 出 Each antifreeze level is configured with a temperature range or a first temperature threshold.

[0112] Generally, the first temperature threshold is a relatively high temperature value, which can effectively achieve the antifreeze effect in the preheating circulation system. The first temperature threshold is positively correlated with the antifreeze level, that is, the higher the antifreeze level, the larger the first temperature threshold, and vice versa.

[0113] Therefore, the closing conditions can include the following two types:

[0114] 1. Inlet water temperature T 进 Or the water outlet temperature value T出 Exceeding the first temperature threshold T1

[0115] Under these shutdown conditions, the inlet water temperature value T is statistically analyzed. 进 Or the water outlet temperature value T 出 The first duration during which the temperature exceeds the first temperature threshold configured for the target level.

[0116] If the first duration is maintained for more than the preset first time threshold (e.g., 3 seconds), it indicates that the possibility of achieving the antifreeze effect in the preheating cycle system is high, and it can be determined that the temperature value meets the shutdown condition.

[0117] If the first duration does not exceed the preset first time threshold (e.g., 3 seconds), it indicates that the possibility of achieving the antifreeze effect in the preheating cycle system is low, and it can be determined that the temperature value does not meet the shutdown condition.

[0118] 2. Inlet water temperature T 进 With the outlet water temperature value T 出 All exceeded the second temperature threshold

[0119] The second temperature threshold is the sum of the upper limit of the temperature range corresponding to the target level and the temperature difference value corresponding to the target level. Generally, the temperature difference value is positively correlated with the antifreeze level, that is, the higher the antifreeze level, the larger the temperature difference value, and vice versa.

[0120] Under these shutdown conditions, the inlet water temperature value T is statistically analyzed. 进 With the outlet water temperature value T 出 The second duration when all values ​​are greater than the second temperature threshold.

[0121] If the second duration is maintained for more than the preset second time threshold (e.g., 10 seconds), it indicates that the possibility of achieving the antifreeze effect in the preheating cycle system is high, and the temperature value can be determined to meet the shutdown condition.

[0122] If the second duration does not exceed the preset second time threshold (e.g., 10 seconds), it indicates that the possibility of achieving the antifreeze effect in the preheating cycle system is low, and it can be determined that the temperature value does not meet the shutdown condition.

[0123] Generally, the second time threshold is greater than the first time threshold.

[0124] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand this embodiment, the following specific examples illustrate the closing conditions in this embodiment.

[0125] In this example, the antifreeze rating includes Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. The temperature range configured for Level 1 antifreeze is the Level 1 range, with an upper limit of T1 and a temperature difference of α (e.g., 5℃). The temperature range configured for Level 2 antifreeze is the Level 2 range, with an upper limit of T2 and a temperature difference of β (e.g., 10℃). The temperature range configured for Level 3 antifreeze is the Level 3 range, with an upper limit of T3 and a temperature difference of γ (e.g., 20℃).

[0126] For Level 1 antifreeze, the shutdown condition is T. 进 and T 出 >T1 (e.g., 35℃) for a first time threshold (e.g., 3 seconds), or, T 进 and T 出 >T2+α continues for the second time threshold (e.g., 10 seconds).

[0127] For Level 2 antifreeze, the shutdown condition is T. 进 and T 出 >T1 (e.g., 40℃) for a first time threshold (e.g., 3 seconds), or, T 进 and T 出 >T2+β continues for a second time threshold (e.g., 10 seconds).

[0128] For Level 3 antifreeze, the shut-off condition is T. 进 and T 出 >T1 (e.g., 45℃) for the first time threshold (e.g., 3 seconds), or, T 进 and T 出 >T2+γ continues for a second time threshold (e.g., 10 seconds).

[0129] Of course, the above-described closing conditions are merely examples. When implementing the embodiments of the present invention, other closing conditions can be set according to actual circumstances, and the embodiments of the present invention do not impose any limitations on this. Furthermore, in addition to the above-described closing conditions, those skilled in the art can also employ other closing conditions as needed, and the embodiments of the present invention do not impose any limitations on this.

[0130] Step 305: If the temperature value meets the shutdown condition before the statistical time for the target level configuration is reached, then stop performing antifreeze operation on the preheating circulation system.

[0131] Step 306: If the temperature value does not meet the shutdown condition when the statistical duration configured for the target level is reached, then the next antifreeze level at the current target level will be updated to the new target level, and the process will return to step 303.

[0132] In this embodiment, the antifreeze effect of performing antifreeze operation for each antifreeze level can be pre-calculated based on experimental statistics. The expected ideal antifreeze effect can be summarized, and the statistical duration can be configured for the target level as the observation period of the antifreeze effect. During the observation period, the corresponding antifreeze operation can be performed, and theoretically, a better antifreeze effect should be achieved.

[0133] When the water heater performs the antifreeze operation corresponding to the target level, a timer can be started to keep track of the time.

[0134] If the temperature value meets the shutdown condition before the timer reaches the statistical duration, it indicates that the antifreeze operation has achieved a good antifreeze effect. The control of the electric heater and / or gas heater to perform antifreeze operation on the preheating circulation system can be stopped, and the system can enter standby mode.

[0135] If the temperature value still does not meet the shutdown condition when the timer reaches the statistical duration, it means that the antifreeze operation has timed out and has not achieved a good antifreeze effect. You can check if there is an antifreeze level below the current target level, that is, a higher level of antifreeze.

[0136] If it exists, the next antifreeze level at the current target level will be updated to the new target level, and the process will return to step 303 to re-execute the antifreeze operation corresponding to the new target level.

[0137] If it does not exist, an alarm operation will be performed to indicate an antifreeze malfunction, such as displaying an alarm code on the monitor, emitting an alarm sound, etc.

[0138] In addition to the off level, if the temperature value changes, the antifreeze level that matches the changed temperature value can be selected from multiple antifreeze levels in real time as the new target level, thus updating the target level. At this time, step 303 is executed again to re-execute the antifreeze operation corresponding to the new target level.

[0139] For example, the antifreeze level includes Level 1 antifreeze, Level 2 antifreeze and Level 3 antifreeze. The current target level is Level 1 antifreeze, and the antifreeze operation corresponding to Level 1 antifreeze is performed.

[0140] If the shutdown conditions are met within the statistical time (20 minutes), the first-level antifreeze mode will be deactivated and the device will enter standby mode.

[0141] If the shutdown conditions are not met within the statistical time (20 minutes) and the antifreeze operation corresponding to Level 1 antifreeze is not shut down, then Level 2 antifreeze can be updated to the target level and the antifreeze operation corresponding to Level 2 antifreeze can be executed.

[0142] If the shutdown conditions are met within the statistical time (20 minutes), the system will exit Level 2 antifreeze mode and enter standby mode.

[0143] If the shutdown conditions are not met within the statistical time (20 minutes) and the antifreeze operation corresponding to Level 2 antifreeze is not shut down, then Level 3 antifreeze can be updated to the target level and the antifreeze operation corresponding to Level 3 antifreeze can be executed.

[0144] If the shutdown conditions are met within the statistical time (10 minutes), the system will exit Level 3 antifreeze mode and enter standby mode.

[0145] If the shutdown conditions are not met within the statistical time (10 minutes) and the corresponding antifreeze operation for Level 3 antifreeze is not turned off, an alarm operation can be performed to indicate an antifreeze abnormality.

[0146] Example 3

[0147] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of an antifreeze device provided in Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 4 As shown, a water heater is used in a preheating circulation system. The heat exchanger in the water heater for heating water includes an electric heater and a gas heater. The device includes:

[0148] Temperature detection module 401 is used to detect the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipe;

[0149] The target level screening module 402 is used to screen out the antifreeze level that matches the temperature value from multiple antifreeze levels, and use it as the target level;

[0150] The target antifreeze module 403 is used to perform antifreeze operation on the preheating circulation system according to the target level. The antifreeze operation includes at least controlling the electric heater and / or the gas heater to heat the water. The heating range of the antifreeze operation in the preheating circulation system is positively correlated with the target level.

[0151] In one embodiment of the present invention, the temperature detection module 401 includes:

[0152] The inlet water temperature detection module is used to detect the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the cold water pipe, and use it as the inlet water temperature value. The cold water pipe is the pipe that inputs water into the water heater.

[0153] The outlet water temperature detection module is used to detect the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the hot water pipe, and use it as the outlet water temperature value. The hot water pipe is the pipe through which the water heater outputs water.

[0154] In one embodiment of the present invention, the target level screening module 402 includes:

[0155] The temperature range query module is used to query multiple temperature ranges configured for different antifreeze levels.

[0156] The target range filtering module is used to query the temperature range containing the temperature value among multiple temperature ranges, and use it as the target range;

[0157] The antifreeze level extraction module is used to extract the antifreeze level corresponding to the target range as the target level.

[0158] In one example of an embodiment of the present invention, the temperature value includes an inlet water temperature value and an outlet water temperature value, the antifreeze level includes Level 1 antifreeze, Level 2 antifreeze and Level 3 antifreeze, the temperature range configured for Level 1 antifreeze is the Level 1 range, the temperature range configured for Level 2 antifreeze is the Level 2 range, the temperature range configured for Level 3 antifreeze is the Level 3 range, the value of the Level 1 range is higher than the value of the Level 2 range, and the value of the Level 2 range is higher than the value of the Level 3 range;

[0159] The target range filtering module includes:

[0160] A primary range determination module is used to determine the primary range as the target range if the inlet water temperature value or the outlet water temperature value is within the primary range.

[0161] The secondary range determination module is used to determine the secondary range as the target range if the inlet water temperature value or the outlet water temperature value is within the secondary range.

[0162] The three-level range determination module is used to determine the three-level range as the target range if the inlet water temperature value or the outlet water temperature value is within the three-level range.

[0163] The antifreeze rating extraction module includes:

[0164] The Level 1 Antifreeze Determination Module is used to extract the Level 1 antifreeze corresponding to the Level 1 range as the target level if the target range is the Level 1 range.

[0165] The secondary antifreeze determination module is used to extract the secondary antifreeze corresponding to the secondary range as the target level if the target range is the secondary range;

[0166] The Level 3 Antifreeze Determination Module is used to extract the Level 3 antifreeze corresponding to the Level 3 range as the target level if the target range is the Level 3 range.

[0167] In one example of an embodiment of the present invention, the antifreeze level includes Level 1 antifreeze, Level 2 antifreeze and Level 3 antifreeze. The gas heater, the electric heater and the thermostatic valve are sequentially installed on the main water pipe of the water heater. A branch water pipe is connected in parallel with the electric heater and the branch water pipe is connected to the thermostatic valve.

[0168] The target antifreeze module 403 includes:

[0169] The first-level antifreeze module is used to control the electric heater to heat the water and open the thermostatic valve to the first position if the target level is first-level antifreeze.

[0170] The secondary antifreeze module is used to control the electric heater to heat the water if the target level is secondary antifreeze, and to circulate the heated water in the pipeline of the preheating circulation system, and to open the thermostatic valve to the second position, wherein the opening degree of the second position towards the main water pipe is greater than the opening degree of the first position towards the main water pipe.

[0171] The three-level antifreeze module is used to control the gas heater to heat the water if the target level is three-level antifreeze, and circulate the heated water in the pipeline of the preheating circulation system, and open the thermostatic valve to the third position, wherein the opening degree of the third position towards the main water pipe is greater than or equal to the opening degree of the second position towards the main water pipe.

[0172] In one embodiment of the present invention, it further includes:

[0173] The shutdown condition comparison module is used to compare the temperature value with the shutdown conditions configured for the target level;

[0174] The antifreeze stop module is used to stop performing antifreeze operation on the preheating cycle system if the temperature value meets the shutdown condition before the statistical time configured for the target level is reached.

[0175] The target level update module is used to update the next antifreeze level at the current target level to a new target level if the temperature value does not meet the shutdown condition when the statistical time configured for the target level is reached, and then return to execute the target antifreeze module 403.

[0176] In one embodiment of the present invention, the temperature values ​​include inlet water temperature value and outlet water temperature value, and each of the antifreeze grades is configured with a temperature range or a first temperature threshold.

[0177] The closing condition comparison module includes:

[0178] The first duration statistics module is used to count the first duration when the inlet water temperature value or the outlet water temperature value is greater than the first temperature threshold configured for the target level.

[0179] The first satisfaction determination module is used to determine that the temperature value satisfies the shutdown condition if the first duration is maintained for more than a preset first time threshold.

[0180] The first non-satisfaction determination module is used to determine that the temperature value does not meet the shutdown condition if the first duration does not exceed a preset first time threshold.

[0181] or,

[0182] The second duration statistics module is used to count the second duration when both the inlet water temperature value and the outlet water temperature value are greater than the second temperature threshold. The second temperature threshold is the sum of the upper limit of the temperature range corresponding to the target level and the temperature difference value corresponding to the target level.

[0183] The second satisfaction determination module is used to determine that the temperature value satisfies the shutdown condition if the second duration is maintained for more than a preset second time threshold.

[0184] The second non-satisfaction determination module is used to determine that the temperature value does not meet the shutdown condition if the second duration does not exceed a preset second time threshold.

[0185] The antifreeze device provided in the embodiments of the present invention can perform the antifreeze method provided in any embodiment of the present invention, and has the corresponding functional modules and beneficial effects for performing the antifreeze method.

[0186] Example 4

[0187] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a water heater 10, which can be used to implement embodiments of the present invention, is shown. The water heater is intended to represent various forms of digital computers, such as laptop computers, desktop computers, workbenches, personal digital assistants, servers, blade servers, mainframe computers, and other suitable computers. The water heater can also represent various forms of mobile devices, such as personal digital processors, cellular phones, smartphones, wearable devices (such as helmets, glasses, watches, etc.), and other similar computing devices. The components shown herein, their connections and relationships, and their functions are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the implementation of the invention described and / or claimed herein.

[0188] like Figure 5As shown, the water heater 10 includes at least one processor 11 and a memory, such as a read-only memory (ROM) 12 or a random access memory (RAM) 13, communicatively connected to the at least one processor 11. The memory stores computer programs executable by the at least one processor. The processor 11 can perform various appropriate actions and processes based on the computer program stored in the ROM 12 or loaded from storage unit 18 into the RAM 13. The RAM 13 can also store various programs and data required for the operation of the water heater 10. The processor 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 are interconnected via a bus 14. An input / output (I / O) interface 15 is also connected to the bus 14.

[0189] Multiple components in the water heater 10 are connected to the I / O interface 15, including: an input unit 16, such as a keyboard, mouse, etc.; an output unit 17, such as various types of displays, speakers, etc.; a storage unit 18, such as a disk, optical disk, etc.; and a communication unit 19, such as a network card, modem, wireless transceiver, etc. The communication unit 19 allows the water heater 10 to exchange information / data with other devices through computer networks such as the Internet and / or various telecommunications networks.

[0190] Processor 11 can be a variety of general-purpose and / or special-purpose processing components with processing and computing capabilities. Some examples of processor 11 include, but are not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), various special-purpose artificial intelligence (AI) computing chips, various processors running machine learning model algorithms, a digital signal processor (DSP), and any suitable processor, controller, microcontroller, etc. Processor 11 performs the various methods and processes described above, such as antifreeze methods.

[0191] In some embodiments, the antifreeze method may be implemented as a computer program tangibly contained in a computer-readable storage medium, such as storage unit 18. In some embodiments, part or all of the computer program may be loaded and / or installed on the water heater 10 via ROM 12 and / or communication unit 19. When the computer program is loaded into RAM 13 and executed by processor 11, one or more steps of the antifreeze method described above may be performed. Alternatively, in other embodiments, processor 11 may be configured to perform the antifreeze method by any other suitable means (e.g., by means of firmware).

[0192] Various embodiments of the systems and techniques described above herein can be implemented in digital electronic circuit systems, integrated circuit systems, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), application-specific standard products (ASSPs), systems-on-a-chip (SoCs), payload-programmable logic devices (CPLDs), computer hardware, firmware, software, and / or combinations thereof. These various embodiments may include implementations in one or more computer programs that can be executed and / or interpreted on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which may be a dedicated or general-purpose programmable processor, capable of receiving data and instructions from a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device, and transmitting data and instructions to the storage system, the at least one input device, and the at least one output device.

[0193] Computer programs used to implement the methods of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. These computer programs may be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device, such that when executed by the processor, the computer programs cause the functions / operations specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams to be performed. The computer programs may be executed entirely on a machine, partially on a machine, or as a standalone software package, partially on a machine and partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0194] In the context of this invention, a computer-readable storage medium can be a tangible medium that may contain or store a computer program for use by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. A computer-readable storage medium may include, but is not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, apparatus, or devices, or any suitable combination thereof. Alternatively, a computer-readable storage medium may be a machine-readable signal medium. More specific examples of machine-readable storage media include electrical connections based on one or more wires, portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fibers, portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0195] To provide interaction with the user, the systems and techniques described herein can be implemented on a water heater having: a display device for displaying information to the user (e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor); and a keyboard and pointing device (e.g., a mouse or trackball) through which the user provides input to the water heater. Other types of devices can also be used to provide interaction with the user; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback); and input from the user can be received in any form (including sound input, voice input, or tactile input).

[0196] The systems and technologies described herein can be implemented in computing systems that include backend components (e.g., as data servers), or computing systems that include middleware components (e.g., application servers), or computing systems that include frontend components (e.g., user computers with graphical user interfaces or web browsers through which users can interact with implementations of the systems and technologies described herein), or any combination of such backend, middleware, or frontend components. The components of the system can be interconnected via digital data communication of any form or medium (e.g., communication networks). Examples of communication networks include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), blockchain networks, and the Internet.

[0197] A computing system can include clients and servers. Clients and servers are generally located far apart and typically interact through communication networks. The client-server relationship is created by computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship with each other. The server can be a cloud server, also known as a cloud computing server or cloud host, which is a hosting product within the cloud computing service system to address the shortcomings of traditional physical hosts and VPS services, such as high management difficulty and weak business scalability.

[0198] Example 5

[0199] This invention also provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the antifreeze method provided in any embodiment of this invention.

[0200] In implementing the computer program product, computer program code for performing the operations of this invention can be written in one or more programming languages ​​or a combination thereof. Programming languages ​​include object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Java, Smalltalk, and C++, as well as conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as C or similar languages. The program code can be executed entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In cases involving remote computers, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer via any type of network—including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN)—or can be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider).

[0201] It should be understood that the various forms of processes shown above can be used, with steps reordered, added, or deleted. For example, the steps described in this invention can be executed in parallel, sequentially, or in different orders, as long as the desired result of the technical solution of this invention can be achieved, and this is not limited herein.

[0202] The specific embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this invention should be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A method of freeze protection, characterized by, A water heater used in a preheating circulation system, wherein the heat exchanger for heating water in the water heater includes an electric heater and a gas heater, the method comprising: Detect the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipe; The antifreeze level that matches the stated temperature value is selected from multiple antifreeze levels and used as the target level; According to the target level, the preheating circulation system is subjected to antifreeze operation, which includes at least controlling the electric heater and / or the gas heater to heat the water. The amount of heating in the preheating circulation system during the antifreeze operation is positively correlated with the target level. The antifreeze level includes Level 1 antifreeze, Level 2 antifreeze and Level 3 antifreeze. The gas heater, the electric heater and the thermostatic valve are sequentially installed on the main water pipe of the water heater. A branch water pipe is connected in parallel with the electric heater and connected to the thermostatic valve. The step of performing antifreeze operation on the preheating circulation system according to the target level includes: If the target level is Level 1 antifreeze, then control the electric heater to heat the water and open the thermostatic valve to the first position; If the target level is level 2 antifreeze, then control the electric heater to heat the water, and circulate the heated water in the pipeline of the preheating circulation system, and open the thermostatic valve to the second position, the second position being more inclined toward the main water pipe than the first position being more inclined toward the main water pipe. If the target level is level three antifreeze, then control the gas heater to heat the water, and circulate the heated water in the pipeline of the preheating circulation system. Open the thermostatic valve to the third position, where the opening degree of the third position towards the main water pipe is greater than or equal to the opening degree of the second position towards the main water pipe.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The detection of the water temperature at the junction of the water heater and the pipe includes: The temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the cold water pipe is detected and used as the inlet water temperature value, wherein the cold water pipe is the pipe that inputs water into the water heater; The temperature value of the water at the junction of the water heater and the hot water pipe is detected and used as the outlet water temperature value, wherein the hot water pipe is the pipe through which the water heater outputs water.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The step of selecting the antifreeze level that matches the temperature value from multiple antifreeze levels as the target level includes: Queries multiple temperature ranges configured for different antifreeze levels; Among the multiple temperature ranges, the temperature range containing the temperature value is queried and used as the target range; Extract the antifreeze level corresponding to the target range and use it as the target level.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, Also includes: The temperature value is compared with the shutdown conditions configured for the target level; If the temperature value meets the shutdown condition before the statistical time configured for the target level is reached, then the antifreeze operation on the preheating cycle system is stopped. If the temperature value does not meet the shutdown condition when the statistical duration configured for the target level is reached, the next antifreeze level at the current target level will be updated to the new target level, and the process will return to performing the antifreeze operation on the preheating cycle system according to the target level.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The temperature values ​​include inlet water temperature and outlet water temperature, and each antifreeze level is configured with a temperature range or a first temperature threshold. The step of comparing the temperature value with the shutdown conditions configured for the target level includes: The duration during which the inlet water temperature value or the outlet water temperature value is greater than the first temperature threshold configured for the target level is recorded. If the first duration is maintained for more than a preset first time threshold, then the temperature value is determined to meet the shutdown condition; If the first duration does not exceed a preset first time threshold, then it is determined that the temperature value does not meet the shutdown condition; or, The duration for which both the inlet water temperature and the outlet water temperature are greater than a second temperature threshold is recorded. The second temperature threshold is the sum of the upper limit of the temperature range corresponding to the target level and the temperature difference corresponding to the target level. If the second duration is maintained for more than a preset second time threshold, then the temperature value is determined to meet the shutdown condition; If the second duration does not exceed the preset second time threshold, then it is determined that the temperature value does not meet the shutdown condition.

6. An antifreeze device, characterized in that, The antifreeze method according to any one of claims 1-5 is applied to a water heater in a preheating circulation system, wherein the heat exchanger for heating water in the water heater includes an electric heater and a gas heater, and the device includes: The temperature detection module is used to detect the temperature of the water at the junction of the water heater and the pipe; The target level filtering module is used to filter out the antifreeze level that matches the temperature value from multiple antifreeze levels, and use it as the target level; A target antifreeze module is used to perform antifreeze operations on the preheating circulation system according to the target level. The antifreeze operation includes at least controlling the electric heater and / or the gas heater to heat the water. The amount of heating in the preheating circulation system during the antifreeze operation is positively correlated with the target level.

7. A water heater, characterized in that, The water heater includes: At least one processor; and A memory communicatively connected to the at least one processor; wherein, The memory stores a computer program that can be executed by the at least one processor, the computer program being executed by the at least one processor to enable the at least one processor to perform the antifreeze method according to any one of claims 1-5.

8. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the antifreeze method according to any one of claims 1-5.

Images