A water purifier and its odor flushing method

Abstract

This application discloses a water purifier and its odor rinsing method, relating to the technical field of water purifiers. The water purifier has a circulating preheating circuit and a water outlet circuit. One end of the water outlet circuit is connected to a faucet, and the other end is connected to the circulating preheating circuit. The method includes: after water replenishment, controlling the water purifier to enter a circulating preheating state, so that the purified water produced by the water purifier circulates and heats up in the circulating preheating circuit; wherein, in the circulating preheating state, the water outlet circuit is turned off; when the actual water temperature of the purified water in the circulating preheating circuit reaches a first preset temperature, acquiring the historical number of times the water purifier has entered the first water outlet rinsing state; when the historical number has not reached the first preset number, controlling the water purifier to enter the first water outlet rinsing state; in the first water outlet rinsing state, the purified water in the circulating preheating circuit is discharged from the faucet through the water outlet circuit. Therefore, this application has the advantages of improving the cleaning and water quality of the water purifier and enhancing the user experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of water purifiers, and more specifically, to a water purifier and a method for rinsing off odors from the same. Background Technology

[0002] As people pay increasing attention to drinking water quality, water purifiers (also known as integrated water purifiers and heaters) are becoming more and more popular. The water circuit structure of existing integrated water purifiers and heaters is relatively complex, and if all the pipes were connected using stainless steel, the corresponding cost would be high. Therefore, in current technology, integrated water purifiers and heaters typically use silicone tubing or rigid connections via a water circuit board to assemble the water circuit. However, if an integrated water purifier and heater is stored for a long time before leaving the factory, or if it is shut down for an extended period without use due to special circumstances, problems such as odors or bacterial growth may occur in the pipes or filters under prolonged stagnant conditions. When the integrated water purifier and heater is turned on, the initially produced purified water may have an odor and the water quality may not meet standards, easily leading to a poor user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this application is to provide a water purifier and its odor rinsing method. By controlling the water purifier to enter the circulation preheating state and the first water outlet state, the purified water produced by the water purifier is heated and rinsed in the circulation preheating circuit and the water outlet circuit to fully sterilize and eliminate odors. This application effectively improves the rinsing quality and water quality of the water purifier, enhancing the user experience.

[0004] The embodiments of this application are implemented as follows:

[0005] The first aspect of this application provides a method for odor rinsing of a water purifier. The water purifier has a circulating preheating circuit and a water outlet circuit. One end of the water outlet circuit is connected to a faucet, and the other end of the water outlet circuit is connected to the circulating preheating circuit. The method includes: after water replenishment, controlling the water purifier to enter a circulating preheating state, so that the purified water produced by the water purifier circulates and heats up in the circulating preheating circuit; wherein, in the circulating preheating state, the water outlet circuit is turned off; when the actual water temperature of the purified water in the circulating preheating circuit reaches a first preset temperature, acquiring the historical number of times the water purifier enters the first water outlet rinsing state; when the historical number has not reached the first preset number, controlling the water purifier to enter the first water outlet rinsing state; in the first water outlet rinsing state, the purified water in the circulating preheating circuit is discharged from the faucet through the water outlet circuit.

[0006] In one embodiment, before controlling the water purifier to enter the circulation preheating state, the method further includes: in response to an odor rinsing command, controlling the water purifier to enter the room temperature water rinsing state and maintaining it for a first preset duration.

[0007] In one embodiment, before controlling the water purifier to enter the room temperature water flushing state, the method further includes: determining whether the water purifier is being powered on for the first time based on historical power-on information; the first power-on includes the first power-on after leaving the factory, and / or the first power-on after replacing the filter element.

[0008] In one embodiment, after determining whether the water purifier is being powered on for the first time based on historical power-up information, the method further includes: if the water purifier is being powered on for the first time, controlling an indicator light to flash to indicate that the water purifier has entered the odor flushing mode; and generating an odor flushing command in response to a button trigger signal.

[0009] In one embodiment, after determining whether the water purifier is being powered on for the first time based on historical power-up information, the method further includes: if the water purifier is not being powered on for the first time, calculating the power-up interval between the two most recent power-ups based on historical power-up information; if the power-up interval reaches a preset time threshold, executing the step: after water replenishment is completed, controlling the water purifier to enter a circulating preheating state.

[0010] In one embodiment, the water purifier further includes an inlet water path and a wastewater path, which are connected through a filter element. Before controlling the water purifier to enter the circulation preheating state, the method further includes: after the water purifier is powered on, controlling the inlet water path and the wastewater path to be connected, controlling the outlet water path and the circulation preheating circuit to be turned off, and maintaining this for a second preset time to flush the filter element.

[0011] In one embodiment, after obtaining the historical number of times the water purifier enters the first water rinsing state, the method further includes: when the historical number reaches a first preset number, controlling the water purifier to enter the room temperature water rinsing state and maintaining it for a third preset duration.

[0012] In one embodiment, the circulating preheating circuit includes a heating water circuit and a water storage tank. One end of the heating water circuit is connected to the water storage tank, and the other end of the heating water circuit is connected to the outlet water circuit. A water pump and an instant heating element are provided on the heating water circuit. The outlet water temperature in the first outlet water flushing state is a second preset temperature, which is greater than the first preset temperature. Controlling the water purifier to enter the first outlet water flushing state includes: controlling the water pump to turn on, connecting the outlet water circuit, and turning the instant heating element to the heating level corresponding to the second preset temperature, so that the pure water in the water storage tank is reheated by the instant heating element to the second preset temperature and then discharged from the water purifier through the outlet water circuit.

[0013] In one embodiment, the circulating preheating circuit further includes a water replenishment path, one end of which is connected to a water storage tank; after controlling the water purifier to enter the first water outlet flushing state, the method further includes: in response to a water shortage signal detected by the water storage tank, controlling the water outlet path, the instantaneous heating element and the water pump to close, and connecting the water replenishment path so that the pure water produced by the water purifier flows into the water storage tank through the water replenishment path; in response to an overflow signal detected by the water storage tank, ending the water replenishment.

[0014] A second aspect of this application provides a water purifier, including: a faucet, an outlet water path, an inlet water path, and a circulating preheating circuit. One end of the outlet water path is connected to the faucet; the inlet water path is connected to the other end of the outlet water path via a filter element; the circulating preheating circuit includes a makeup water path and a heating water path, one end of the makeup water path is connected to one end of the heating water path via a water storage tank; the heating water path is equipped with an instant heating element and a water pump, and the other end of the heating water path is connected in parallel to the other end of the makeup water path to the outlet water path.

[0015] The advantages of this application compared to the prior art are:

[0016] This application addresses the problem of bacterial growth and odor development in water purifiers caused by prolonged shutdown before or after leaving the factory. By controlling the water purifier to enter a circulation preheating state and a first-stage flushing state after water replenishment, this application ensures that the water outlet path and circulation preheating circuit of the water purifier also receive high-temperature pure water flushing and sterilization. The odor flushing method provided by this application effectively eliminates odors and sterilizes, significantly improving the flushing quality and the quality of the output water after high-temperature flushing, thus enhancing the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the water circuit structure of a water purifier provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0019] Figure 2 A schematic flowchart of an odor rinsing method for a water purifier provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0020] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating an odor flushing method for a water purifier according to an embodiment of this application. Reference numerals: 1 – Water purifier; 100 – Water tap; 101 – Ball valve; 102 – Inlet valve; 103 – Booster pump; 104 – Filter element; 105 – Check valve; 106 – Outlet valve; 107 – Wastewater valve; 108 – Make-up valve; 109 – Water storage tank; 110 – Water pump; 111 – Instantaneous heating element; 210 – Inlet water path; 220 – Outlet water path; 230 – Circulation preheating circuit; 231 – Make-up water path; 232 – Heating water path; 240 – Wastewater path; 250 – Exhaust pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0022] Similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures indicate similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures. Furthermore, in the description of this application, terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0023] The technical solution of this application will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the water circuit structure of a water purifier 1 provided in one embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, this application provides a water purifier 1 (or an integrated water purifier and heat dissipator). This water purifier 1 can automatically perform various functions such as water purification, heating, rinsing, and metered water dispensing after being turned on, based on its own program settings or instructions generated by user buttons.

[0025] The water purifier 1 includes a faucet 100, an inlet water path 210, an outlet water path 220, a wastewater path 240, and a circulating preheating circuit 230. One end of the inlet water path 210 is connected to the municipal water supply pipeline, and the other end of the inlet water path 210 is connected to either the outlet water path 220 or the wastewater path 240 via a filter element 104. The inlet water path 210 is equipped with a ball valve 101, an inlet valve 102, and a booster pump 103. One end of the booster pump 103 is connected to the inlet valve 102, and the other end of the booster pump 103 is connected to the inlet end of the filter element 104. One end of the inlet valve 102 is connected to the ball valve 101, and the other end of the inlet valve 102 is connected to the booster pump 103. One end of the ball valve 101 is configured to connect to the municipal water supply pipeline, and the other end of the ball valve 101 is connected to the inlet valve 102. Wastewater valve 107 is installed on wastewater channel 240, and one end of wastewater valve 107 is connected to the wastewater end of filter element 104.

[0026] One end of the water outlet path 220 is connected to the water outlet faucet 100, and the other end of the water outlet path 220 is connected to the circulating preheating circuit 230. The water outlet path 220 is equipped with a check valve 105 and a water outlet valve 106. One end of the check valve 105 is connected to the pure water end of the filter element 104, and the other end of the check valve 105 is connected to the water outlet valve 106. One end of the water outlet valve 106 is connected to the check valve 105, and the other end of the water outlet valve 106 is connected to the water outlet faucet 100.

[0027] The circulating preheating circuit 230 includes a water supply circuit 231 and a heating circuit 232. One end of the water supply circuit 231 is connected to one end of the heating circuit 232 via a water storage tank 109. The other end of the water supply circuit 231 and the other end of the heating circuit 232 are connected in parallel to the outlet circuit 220, and are also connected in parallel to the pipeline between the check valve 105 and the outlet valve 106 in the outlet circuit 220. A water supply valve 108 is provided on the water supply circuit 231. One end of the water supply valve 108 is connected to one end of the water storage tank 109, and the other end of the water supply valve 108 is connected to the outlet circuit 220. The heating water circuit 232 is equipped with an instant heating element 111, a water pump 110, and another check valve 105. One end of the water pump 110 is connected to the other end of the water storage tank 109, and the other end of the water pump 110 is connected to the instant heating element 111. One end of the instant heating element 111 is connected to the check valve 105 on the heating water circuit 232, and the other end of the instant heating element 111 is connected to the water pump 110. One end of the check valve 105 on the heating water circuit 232 is connected to the water outlet circuit 220, and the other end of the check valve 105 is connected to the instant heating element 111. One end of the water storage tank 109 is also connected to the water outlet faucet 100 through the vent pipe 250.

[0028] The check valve 105 on the water outlet circuit 220 ensures that the water in the water circuit of the water purifier 1 can only flow from the water outlet end of the filter element 104 to the water outlet valve 106 or the water supply valve 108, and cannot flow back in the opposite direction; the check valve 105 on the heating water circuit 232 ensures that the water in the water circuit of the water purifier 1 can only flow from the instantaneous heating element 111 to the water outlet valve 106 or the water supply valve 108, and cannot flow back in the opposite direction.

[0029] In one embodiment, the rinsing state of the water purifier 1 includes a circulating preheating state and a first water outlet rinsing state. In the circulating preheating state, the water purifier 1 heats the pure water in the circulating preheating circuit 230. The heated pure water circulates between the water supply path 231, the heating path 232, and the water storage tank 109, achieving rinsing, sterilization, and deodorization of the water supply path 231, the heating path 232, and the water storage tank 109. In the first water outlet rinsing state, the water purifier 1 also allows the pure water heated to a first preset temperature in the circulating preheating circuit 230 to flow out from the water outlet faucet 100 via the water outlet path 220, achieving rinsing, sterilization, and deodorization of the water outlet path 220 and the water outlet faucet 100 with high-temperature pure water.

[0030] In one embodiment, the rinsing state of the water purifier 1 also includes a room temperature water rinsing state, so that before entering the circulation preheating state or after ending the first water rinsing state, the water purifier 1 uses the pure water produced by the filter element 104 to rinse the water outlet path 220 and the water outlet faucet 100 at room temperature, so as to remove residual impurities in the water path, disinfect and eliminate odors, or cool the components, pipes or pure water in the water outlet path 220 to room temperature.

[0031] In one embodiment, the rinsing state of the water purifier 1 also includes a filter cartridge rinsing state, so that the water purifier 1 introduces raw water into the filter cartridge 104 through the water inlet channel 210 to rinse the RO membrane, and then discharges the wastewater from rinsing the filter cartridge 104 through the wastewater channel 240.

[0032] After the water purifier 1 is turned on, the ball valve 101 is in the open state to connect the inlet water passage 210 with the water supply pipeline. The water purifier 1 controls the wastewater valve 107, the inlet water valve 102, and the booster pump 103 to open, and controls the water replenishment valve 108 and the outlet water valve 106 to close, that is, connecting the inlet water passage 210 with the wastewater passage 240 and shutting off the outlet water passage 220 and the water replenishment passage 231, so as to enter the filter element rinsing state. The raw water in the inlet water passage 210 is pressurized by the booster pump 103 and then rinses the filter element 104. The rinsed wastewater is discharged from the wastewater passage 240 through the wastewater valve 107.

[0033] The water purifier 1 controls the opening of the inlet valve 102 and the outlet valve 106 (and can further control the opening of the booster pump 103), and controls the closing of the wastewater valve 107 and the water supply valve 108, thus connecting the inlet water path 210 and the outlet water path 220, and shutting off the wastewater path 240 and the water supply path 231, to enter the normal temperature water flushing state. The raw water in the inlet water path 210 is purified by the filter element 104 and then discharged from the purified water end of the filter element 104, flowing out from the faucet 100 through the check valve 105 and the outlet valve 106 on the outlet water path 220.

[0034] The water purifier 1 controls the opening of the inlet valve 102, booster pump 103, and water replenishment valve 108, and controls the closing of the outlet valve 106, water pump 110, and wastewater valve 107. This connects the inlet water path 210 and the water replenishment path 231, and shuts off the outlet water path 220 and the wastewater path 240, thus entering the water replenishment state. The raw water in the inlet water path 210 is purified by the filter element 104, flows into the water replenishment path 231 through the check valve 105 on the outlet water path 220, and then flows into the water storage tank 109 through the water replenishment valve 108.

[0035] The water purifier 1 controls the inlet valve 102, booster pump 103, wastewater valve 107, and outlet valve 106 to close, and controls the makeup water valve 108, instant heating element 111, and pump 110 to open, thus connecting the heating water circuit 232 and the makeup water circuit 231 to enter the circulating preheating state. Pure water in the storage tank 109 is drawn out by the pump 110, heated by the instant heating element 111, and then flows through the check valve 105 on the heating water circuit 232 and the makeup water valve 108 on the makeup water circuit 231 before re-entering the storage tank 109, and then being drawn out again by the pump 110. The pure water circulates and is heated in the circulating preheating circuit. The heated pure water then circulates and flushes the storage tank 109, makeup water circuit 231, and heating water circuit 232 to achieve sterilization, disinfection, and odor elimination.

[0036] The water purifier 1 controls the water supply valve 108, inlet valve 102, booster pump 103, and wastewater valve 107 to close, and controls the water pump 110, instant heating element 111, and outlet valve 106 to open, thus connecting the water storage tank 109, heating water circuit 232, and outlet water circuit 220 to enter the first water flushing state. Hot water in the water storage tank 109 is drawn out by the water pump 110, flows through the instant heating element 111 (by increasing the heating level of the instant heating element 111, the pure water in the water storage tank 109 can be heated to a higher temperature) and the check valve 105 on the heating water circuit 232, and then flows out from the outlet faucet 100 through the outlet valve 106. The pure water in the water storage tank 109 that has reached the first preset temperature, or the pure water heated to a higher temperature by the instant heating element 111, performs high-temperature flushing and disinfection on the outlet water circuit 220 and the outlet faucet 100 to remove odors from the water circuit.

[0037] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating an odor flushing method for a water purifier 1 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 As shown, this application provides an odor rinsing method, which can be applied to the water purifier 1 provided in any embodiment of this application, or to other water purifiers 1 or water circuit products that can implement the odor rinsing method provided in this application. The odor rinsing method of the water purifier 1 provided in this application can be executed by the control device in the water purifier 1 (hereinafter referred to as executed by the water purifier 1), or it can be executed by other external control devices after being electrically connected to various components in the water circuit. The odor rinsing method includes the following steps S110 to S130.

[0038] S110: After the water replenishment is completed, control the water purifier 1 to enter the circulation preheating state so that the pure water produced by the water purifier 1 circulates and heats up in the circulation preheating circuit 230.

[0039] When the water purifier 1 is working, it will monitor the water storage status of the storage tank 109 in real time (such as water level information, water shortage signal or overflow signal). When the storage tank 109 is short of water, it will send a water shortage signal. Based on the water shortage signal, the water purifier 1 will control the connection between the inlet water path 210 and the replenishment water path 231. The pure water produced after being filtered by the filter element 104 will flow into the storage tank 109 through the replenishment water path 231. When the storage tank 109 is full of pure water, the water replenishment process of the water purifier 1 ends.

[0040] In this step, after the water replenishment process is completed, the water purifier 1 controls the shut-off of the outlet water path 220 and the inlet water path 210, and controls the connection between the replenishment water path 231 and the heating water path 232, so that the water purifier 1 enters the circulation preheating state. In the circulation preheating state, the pure water in the storage tank 109 can circulate and be heated in the circulation preheating circuit 230. The pure water drawn from the storage tank 109 is heated by the heating water path 232, and then flows back into the storage tank 109 through the replenishment water path 231, and so on, until the temperature of the pure water in the circulation preheating circuit 230 reaches the first preset temperature.

[0041] The heated pure water can continuously disinfect, sterilize, heat up, and rinse the various components (such as the water storage tank 109, the water pump 110, or the water supply valve 108) and pipelines in the circulating preheating circuit 230, effectively removing odors and bacteria generated in the circulating preheating circuit 230, pipelines, or components due to long-term storage, or bacteria and odors generated by residual water backflow and long-term stagnation of the remaining water in the water storage tank 109.

[0042] In one embodiment, the water storage tank 109 has a heat preservation function, so that the heated pure water can be kept warm in the water storage tank 109 to avoid cooling down in a short time.

[0043] S120: When the actual water temperature of the pure water in the circulating preheating circuit 230 reaches the first preset temperature, obtain the historical number of times the water purifier 1 enters the first water rinsing state.

[0044] A temperature detection element is installed in the circulating preheating circuit 230 (e.g., water storage tank 109) to detect the actual water temperature in the circulating preheating circuit 230 in real time. The first water flushing state means that the water purifier 1 controls the water outlet circuit 220 to connect with the heating water circuit 232, so that the pure water that has been heated to the first preset temperature in the water storage tank 109 is drawn out by the water pump 110, flows through the instant heating element 111 and the water outlet circuit 220 and is discharged from the water outlet faucet 100, so as to heat and flush the water outlet circuit 220 and the water outlet faucet 100, thereby realizing the functions of sterilization, disinfection and odor removal.

[0045] In this step, when the actual water temperature in the circulating preheating circuit 230 reaches the first preset temperature, the water purifier 1 checks the historical flushing records and obtains the number of times it has entered the first water outlet flushing state, which is used as the historical count. The water purifier 1 obtains the historical count of its own entry into the first water outlet flushing state in order to determine whether the water outlet circuit 220 has received a sufficient number of high-temperature water flushes to thoroughly clean and eliminate odors and achieve sterilization and disinfection.

[0046] S130: When the historical count has not reached the first preset count, control the water purifier 1 to enter the first water rinsing state.

[0047] In the first water rinsing state, the pure water in the circulating preheating circuit 230 is discharged from the water outlet 100 through the water outlet path 220. In this step, the water temperature in the first water rinsing state is the second preset temperature, which is not lower than the first preset temperature. This ensures that after the heated pure water flows out of the heating water path 232, it can still rinse the water outlet 100 or the water outlet path 220 at a high temperature not lower than the first preset temperature, so as to effectively remove odors and sterilize.

[0048] In this step, the water purifier 1 controls the instant heating element 111 in the heating water circuit 232 to continue heating at the heating level corresponding to the first preset temperature, or controls the heating level of the instant heating element 111 in the heating water circuit 232 to be increased so that the water pumped from the water storage tank 109 by the water pump 110 is heated to a higher temperature.

[0049] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating an odor flushing method for a water purifier 1 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 As shown, this application provides an odor rinsing method, which can be applied to the water purifier 1 provided in any embodiment of this application, or to other water purifiers 1 or water circuit products that can implement the odor rinsing method provided in this application. The odor rinsing method of the water purifier 1 provided in this application can be executed by the control device in the water purifier 1 (hereinafter referred to as executed by the water purifier 1), or it can be executed by other external control devices after being electrically connected to various components in the water circuit. The odor rinsing method includes the following steps S210 to S330.

[0050] S210: After the water purifier 1 is powered on, flush the filter element 104 and maintain it for the second preset time.

[0051] "Powering on" refers to the water purifier 1 switching from a power-off state to a power-on state. Each time it is powered on, the water purifier automatically enters the filter flushing mode, i.e., it controls itself to enter the filter flushing state. In the filter flushing state, the water purifier 1 controls the raw water in the inlet water channel 210 to enter the filter element 104 to flush it. The flushed wastewater is discharged through the wastewater channel 240 and remains there for a second preset time.

[0052] In one embodiment, after the water purifier 1 is powered on each time, it first controls the inlet valve 102, the booster pump 103 and the wastewater valve 107 to open, that is, controls the inlet water path 210 and the wastewater path 240 to connect; at the same time, the water purifier 1 controls the outlet valve 106, the water replenishment valve 108 and other water path components to shut off, that is, controls the outlet water path 220 and the circulating preheating circuit 230 to shut off, so as to enter the filter flushing state.

[0053] In one embodiment, the second preset duration is 30 seconds. In other embodiments of this application, the second preset duration may be set to other values ​​based on the duration required to fully rinse the filter element 104.

[0054] S220: Based on historical power information, determine whether water purifier 1 is being powered on for the first time.

[0055] Historically, electrical information refers to the power-on records stored within the water purifier 1, including power-on upon startup, restart, power-on after an unexpected power outage, and power-on after each filter replacement (104). As a new machine after leaving the factory, the water purifier 1 begins storing power-on data after its first power-on. In this step, the water purifier 1 checks whether power-on data is stored in its memory (e.g., errprom) (i.e., determining if the water purifier 1 is being powered on for the first time as a new machine after leaving the factory), or determines whether the power-on data corresponds to the first power-on after filter replacement (104), to determine if the water purifier 1 is being powered on for the first time. Whether filter replacement (104) is complete is determined based on the reset status of filter (104) after reinstallation within the water purifier 1.

[0056] The power-on record corresponding to the first power-on or power-on after replacing filter 104 is marked in a designated memory (e.g., errprom) after the water purifier 1 is powered on, enters the first water rinsing state and maintains it for one minute; if the water purifier 1 is interrupted within one minute of entering the first rinsing state, or before entering the first rinsing state, the power-on related data is temporarily stored in other memory (e.g., RAM) and cannot be used as reliable power-on data for the water purifier 1 to determine whether it is the first power-on.

[0057] S230: If the water purifier 1 is powered on for the first time, the control indicator light will flash to indicate that the water purifier 1 has entered the odor flushing mode.

[0058] Odor flushing mode refers to the working mode of water purifier 1, which performs an odor flushing method to remove impurities, bacteria, viruses, or odors from the water circuit, ensuring that the drinking water provided to the user is odorless. In this step, if water purifier 1 is being powered on for the first time, water purifier 1 sends a command and controls the indicator light on the machine to flash, indicating that water purifier 1 has entered odor flushing mode, and reminds the user to press any button on water purifier 1 (excluding buttons that affect power supply, such as the power button or restart button) to enter the odor flushing related workflow.

[0059] In one embodiment, if the water purifier 1 is not being powered on for the first time, the water purifier 1 can calculate the power-on interval between the two most recent power-on times based on historical power-on information; if the power-on interval reaches a preset time threshold, the water purifier 1 can also be controlled to enter the circulation preheating state after the water replenishment is completed.

[0060] Among them, the two most recent power-on times refer to the time interval between the current time and the most recent power-on time. If the time interval between two adjacent power-on times of the water purifier 1 is large, the residual water or pipes in the water circuit structure of the water purifier 1 may also have bacterial growth or odor problems. The water purifier 1 needs to use the flushing method corresponding to the circulation preheating state and the first water outlet flushing state to flush away odors and disinfect the circulation preheating circuit 230, water outlet circuit 220 and water outlet faucet 100 of the water purifier 1.

[0061] In one embodiment, if the water purifier 1 is not being powered on for the first time, the water purifier 1 can also execute step S210 again, enter the filter flushing state and maintain it for the second preset time, and then enter the standby state or the normal water output process; or, if it is not being powered on for the first time, the water purifier 1 can directly enter the standby state or the normal water output process.

[0062] S240: In response to the odor flushing command corresponding to the button trigger signal, control the water purifier 1 to enter the normal temperature water flushing state and maintain it for a first preset time.

[0063] After the indicator light flashes, the user can press the button on the water purifier 1 to continue the next stage of rinsing. The water purifier 1 responds to the button trigger signal by generating a corresponding odor rinsing command. This odor rinsing command controls the water purifier 1 to enter odor rinsing mode and begin performing odor rinsing related tasks. The normal temperature water rinsing state refers to the continuous flow of water from the filter element 104 through the water outlet 220 and the faucet 100, providing a higher quality rinse to the water outlet 220 and the faucet 100.

[0064] In one embodiment, the water purifier 1 controls the inlet water path 210 and the outlet water path 220 to be connected, and the replenishment water path 231, the wastewater path 240 and the heating water path 232 to be shut off. That is, the inlet water valve 102, the booster pump 103 and the outlet water valve 106 are controlled to be opened, and the replenishment water valve 108, the wastewater valve 107, the water pump 110 and the instant heating element 111 are controlled to be shut off, so that the raw water in the inlet water path 210 is made into pure water through the filter element 104 and flows out of the water purifier 1 through the outlet water path 220 and the water faucet 100 to enter the normal temperature water rinsing state.

[0065] In this step, the water purifier 1 responds to the odor flushing command corresponding to the button trigger signal, controlling the water purifier 1 to first enter the room temperature water flushing state and maintain it for a first preset time. The value of the first preset time needs to ensure that the water flow completely flushes the protective liquid, toner, or bacteria in the filter element 104 out of the water purifier 1 from the water outlet 100. Maintaining the water purifier 1 in the room temperature water flushing state for the first preset time can prevent the protective liquid, toner, or bacteria from entering the water replenishment path 231, heating path 232, or water storage tank 109 in the subsequent water replenishment process and becoming difficult to remove, thus affecting the user experience; it can also provide a buffer time when the user forgets to turn on the water supply pipe after installing a new machine or replacing the filter element 104, to ensure that the room temperature water fully flushes the water outlet path 220 and the water outlet 100.

[0066] In one embodiment, the first preset duration is 3 minutes. In other embodiments of this application, the first preset duration may be other values, but it is necessary to ensure that the water flow completely flushes the protective liquid, toner, or bacteria in the filter element 104 out of the water purifier 1 from the faucet 100.

[0067] S250: In response to a water shortage signal detected by the water storage tank 109, the purified water produced by the water purifier 1 is controlled to flow into the water storage tank 109 through the water replenishment channel 231.

[0068] The water shortage signal refers to the signal generated by the water level detection element in the water storage tank 109 when the pure water level in the water storage tank 109 is too low or there is no pure water in the water storage tank 109. In this step, after the water purifier 1 finishes the continuous room temperature water flushing state for the first preset time, it responds to the water shortage signal and controls the water purifier 1 to enter the water replenishment process, that is, controls the pure water produced by the filter element 104 in the water purifier 1 to flow into the water storage tank 109 through the water replenishment channel 231.

[0069] In one embodiment, the water purifier 1 controls the water outlet path 220 and the heating path 232 to shut off, that is, controls the water outlet valve 106, that is, the heating element 111 and the water pump 110 to shut off, and connects the water replenishment path 231 and the water inlet path 210, that is, opens the booster pump 103, the water inlet valve 102 and the water replenishment valve 108, so that the raw water in the water inlet path 210 is purified by the filter element 104 and then flows into the water storage tank 109 through the water replenishment path 231.

[0070] S260: In response to the overflow signal detected by the water storage tank 109, the water replenishment is terminated.

[0071] The overflow signal refers to the signal generated by the water level detection element when the water level in the water storage tank 109 reaches the rated water level or when the water storage tank 109 overflows. In this step, the water purifier 1 ends the water replenishment process in response to the overflow signal.

[0072] In one embodiment, the water purifier 1 can control the inlet valve 102, the booster pump 103 and the water replenishment valve 108 to shut off, that is, shut off the inlet water path 210 and the water replenishment path 231 to end the water replenishment; the water purifier 1 can also control only the inlet valve 102 and the booster pump 103 to shut off, that is, shut off the inlet water path 210 to end the water replenishment.

[0073] S270: After the water replenishment is completed, control the water purifier 1 to enter the circulation preheating state so that the pure water produced by the water purifier 1 circulates and heats up in the circulation preheating circuit 230.

[0074] In this step, after the water purifier 1 finishes replenishing water, it controls the opening of the water pump 110, the instant heating element 111, and the water replenishment valve 108, connecting the water replenishment path 231, the water storage tank 109, and the heating path 232 to enter the circulating preheating state. At this time, the water outlet valve 106, the water inlet valve 102, and the booster pump 103 are closed, that is, the water inlet path 210 and the water outlet path 220 are shut off. The water purifier 1 controls the heating level of the instant heating element 111 to be adjusted to the level corresponding to the first preset temperature. In the circulating preheating state, the pure water in the water storage tank 109 is drawn out by the water pump 110, flows through the instant heating element 111 to be heated, flows into the water storage tank 109 through the water replenishment valve 108, and is then drawn out again by the water pump 110, thus circulating and heating.

[0075] This step is similar to step S110; for other details, please refer to step S110.

[0076] S280: Determine whether the actual water temperature of the pure water in the circulating preheating circuit 230 has reached the first preset temperature.

[0077] In this step, the water purifier 1 acquires the temperature of the pure water circulating in the preheating loop 230 in real time. The preheating loop 230 is equipped with a temperature detection element, which can be located in the heating water circuit 232 or the water storage tank 109. The water purifier 1 acquires the actual water temperature detected by the temperature detection element in the preheating loop 230 at a preset frequency and determines whether the actual water temperature has reached a first preset temperature. If the first preset temperature is reached, the process proceeds to step S290; otherwise, the preheating loop continues.

[0078] In one embodiment, the first preset temperature is 55°C. In other embodiments of this application, the first preset temperature may also be set to other temperatures based on the rinsing requirements of the circulating preheating circuit 230.

[0079] S290: When the actual water temperature of the pure water in the circulating preheating circuit 230 reaches the first preset temperature, obtain the historical number of times the water purifier 1 enters the first water rinsing state.

[0080] S300: Determine whether the number of times the water purifier 1 has entered the first water rinsing state has reached the first preset number.

[0081] In steps S290 to S300 above, the water purifier 1 obtains the historical number of times it has entered the first water rinsing state since power-on and determines whether the first preset number has been reached. This is to determine whether the water outlet path 220 has received a sufficient number of high-temperature water rinses to thoroughly clean, eliminate odors, and achieve sterilization and disinfection. This step is similar to step S120; please refer to step S120 for other details. If the first preset number has been reached, proceed to step S320; otherwise, proceed to step S310.

[0082] In other embodiments of this application, the water purifier 1 can also obtain the cumulative duration of its first water rinsing state after power-on, and determine whether the water outlet path 220 has received sufficient high-temperature water rinsing time based on whether the cumulative duration has reached a preset duration threshold, so as to fully clean, eliminate odors and achieve sterilization and disinfection. If the cumulative duration reaches the first preset duration, the process proceeds to step S320; if the first preset duration has not been reached, the process proceeds to step S310, controlling the water purifier 1 to enter the first water rinsing state.

[0083] S310: When the historical count has not reached the first preset count, control the water purifier 1 to enter the first water rinsing state.

[0084] The water temperature in the first water rinsing state is a second preset temperature, which is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature. In one embodiment, the second preset temperature is greater than the first preset temperature, and the second preset temperature is set to 85°C (this temperature has a high odor rinsing effect), while the first preset temperature is set to 55°C. In other embodiments of this application, the value of the second preset temperature can be set to other values ​​according to the high-temperature rinsing requirements of the water outlet 220 and the water tap 100.

[0085] In one embodiment, the water purifier 1 controls the water pump 110 to turn on, the water outlet 220 to be connected, and the instant heating element 111 to be turned on to the heating level corresponding to the second preset temperature, so that the pure water in the water storage tank 109 is reheated to the second preset temperature by the instant heating element 111 and then discharged from the water purifier 1 through the water outlet 220 and the water outlet faucet 100.

[0086] S320: When the historical count reaches the first preset count, control the water purifier 1 to enter the normal temperature water flushing state and maintain it for the third preset duration.

[0087] In this step, if the number of times the water purifier 1 has entered the first water rinsing state reaches a first preset number, the water purifier 1 controls itself to enter the room temperature rinsing state and maintains it for a third preset duration. Alternatively, if the cumulative duration of the water purifier 1 entering the first water rinsing state reaches a preset duration threshold, the water purifier 1 controls itself to enter the room temperature rinsing state and maintains it for a third preset duration. In the room temperature rinsing state, the water purifier 1 can cool the water outlet pipe and the water faucet 100 with the room temperature pure water made by the filter element 104, and discharge the impurities or high-temperature residual water remaining in the water outlet pipe 220 and the water faucet 100 after the first water rinsing state ends.

[0088] In one embodiment, the third preset duration is 1 minute; in other embodiments of this application, the value of the third preset duration can be set to other values ​​based on the need for rinsing with normal temperature water after high temperature water rinsing (i.e., after the end of the first water rinsing state).

[0089] S330: End the flushing mode and enter standby mode.

[0090] The odor rinsing method for the water purifier 1 provided in this application generally has a total working time of about 25 minutes. Different rinsing states can play different roles in different rinsing stages, such as high-temperature disinfection, removal of protective liquid from filter element 104, or cooling of the outlet pipe to remove residual water. Different rinsing states can also fully rinse, sterilize, and remove odors from different parts of the water circuit structure inside the water purifier 1 (such as the outlet water circuit 220, the circulating preheating circuit 230, or the filter element 104), which can better meet the psychological needs of users.

[0091] This application solves the problem of bacterial growth and odor caused by prolonged shutdown of the water purifier 1 before or after leaving the factory. The odor rinsing method can be divided into a filter cartridge 104 rinsing mode and an odor rinsing mode. Upon initial power-on, the water purifier 1 first performs filter cartridge 104 rinsing, followed by odor rinsing. Furthermore, by controlling the water purifier 1 to enter a circulation preheating state and a first outlet water rinsing state after water replenishment, this application ensures that the water outlet path 220 and the circulation preheating circuit 230 of the water purifier 1 also receive high-temperature pure water rinsing and sterilization. The odor rinsing method of the water purifier 1 provided by this application can sterilize and eliminate odors, effectively improving the rinsing quality of the water purifier 1 and the quality of the outlet water after high-temperature rinsing, thus significantly enhancing the user experience.

[0092] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A method for rinsing out odors in a water purifier, characterized in that, The water purifier has a circulating preheating circuit and a water outlet circuit. One end of the water outlet circuit is connected to a water tap, and the other end is connected to the circulating preheating circuit. The circulating preheating circuit includes a water replenishment circuit, a water heating circuit, and a water storage tank. One end of the water heating circuit is connected to the water storage tank, and the other end is connected to the water outlet circuit. One end of the water replenishment circuit is connected to the water storage tank, and the other end of the water replenishment circuit is connected in parallel with the other end of the water heating circuit to the water outlet circuit. The water heating circuit is equipped with a water pump and an instant heating element. One end of the water pump is connected to the water storage tank, and the other end of the water pump is connected to one end of the instant heating element. The other end of the instant heating element is connected to the water outlet circuit. The odor flushing method of the water purifier includes: After the water replenishment is completed, the water purifier is controlled to enter the circulation preheating state, so that the pure water produced by the water purifier circulates and heats up in the circulation preheating loop; wherein, in the circulation preheating state, the water outlet is turned off. When the actual water temperature of the pure water in the circulating preheating circuit reaches the first preset temperature, the historical number of times the water purifier enters the first water rinsing state is obtained. When the number of historical occurrences does not reach the first preset number, the water purifier is controlled to enter the first water rinsing state; in the first water rinsing state, the pure water in the circulating preheating circuit is discharged from the water faucet through the water outlet path.

2. The odor flushing method for a water purifier according to claim 1, characterized in that, Before controlling the water purifier to enter the circulation preheating state, the method further includes: In response to an odor flushing command, the water purifier is controlled to enter a normal temperature water flushing state and maintained for a first preset duration.

3. The odor flushing method for a water purifier according to claim 2, characterized in that, Before controlling the water purifier to enter the room temperature water flushing state, the method further includes: Based on historical power information, it is determined whether the water purifier is being powered on for the first time; the first power-on includes the first power-on after leaving the factory and / or the first power-on after replacing the filter cartridge.

4. The odor flushing method for a water purifier according to claim 3, characterized in that, After determining whether the water purifier is being powered on for the first time based on historical power-up information, the method further includes: If the water purifier is being powered on for the first time, the control indicator light will flash to indicate that the water purifier has entered the odor flushing mode; In response to the button trigger signal, the odor flushing command is generated.

5. The odor flushing method for a water purifier according to claim 3, characterized in that, After determining whether the water purifier is being powered on for the first time based on historical power-up information, the method further includes: If the water purifier is not being powered on for the first time, calculate the power-on interval between the two most recent power-on times based on the historical power-on information. If the power-on interval reaches a preset time threshold, the following steps are executed: After water replenishment is completed, the water purifier is controlled to enter the circulation preheating state.

6. The odor flushing method for a water purifier according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water purifier further includes an inlet water path and a wastewater path, which are connected through a filter element. Before controlling the water purifier to enter the circulation preheating state, the method further includes: After the water purifier is powered on, the system controls the connection between the inlet water path and the wastewater path, controls the disconnection between the outlet water path and the circulating preheating circuit, and maintains this connection for a second preset duration to flush the filter element.

7. The odor flushing method for a water purifier according to claim 1, characterized in that, After obtaining the historical number of times the water purifier has entered the first water rinsing state, the method further includes: When the number of historical data points reaches the first preset number, the water purifier is controlled to enter the normal temperature water rinsing state and maintain it for the third preset duration.

8. The odor flushing method for a water purifier according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water temperature in the first water rinsing state is a second preset temperature, which is greater than the first preset temperature; controlling the water purifier to enter the first water rinsing state includes: The system controls the water pump to turn on, the water outlet path to be connected, and the instant heating element to be turned on to the heating level corresponding to the second preset temperature, so that the pure water in the water storage tank is reheated to the second preset temperature by the instant heating element and then discharged from the water purifier through the water outlet path.

9. The odor flushing method for a water purifier according to claim 8, characterized in that, After controlling the water purifier to enter the first water rinsing state, the method further includes: In response to a water shortage signal detected by the water storage tank, the water outlet path, the instant heating element and the water pump are shut down, and the water replenishment path is connected so that the pure water produced by the water purifier flows into the water storage tank through the water replenishment path; In response to the overflow signal detected by the water storage tank, the water replenishment is terminated.

10. A water purifier, characterized in that, An odor flushing method for performing the water purifier according to any one of claims 1-9, the water purifier comprising: Water tap; A water outlet path, one end of which is connected to the water outlet faucet; The water inlet channel is connected to the other end of the water outlet channel via a filter element. The circulating preheating circuit includes a water storage tank, a water supply line, and a water heating line. One end of the water supply line is connected to one end of the water heating line through the water storage tank, and the other end of the water heating line is connected to the water outlet line. The water heating line is equipped with an instant heating element and a water pump. One end of the water pump is connected to the water storage tank, and the other end of the water pump is connected to one end of the instant heating element. The other end of the instant heating element is connected to the water outlet line. The other end of the heating water circuit is connected to the other end of the replenishment water circuit, and then connected to the outlet water circuit.

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