Heating control method and device, water heater and storage medium

Abstract

The application discloses a heating control method and device, a water heater and a storage medium. The heating control method is applied to the water heater. The water heater comprises a water tank, a heat pump and a main heating pipe acting on the whole water tank, and a supplementary heating pipe acting on a water outlet of the water tank. The method comprises the following steps: determining the flow-out amount of water in the water tank when the temperature in the water tank exceeds the preset water temperature of the water heater; when the flow-out amount exceeds the preset water amount, controlling the supplementary heating pipe to heat the water in the water tank; and when the flow-out amount does not exceed the preset water amount, controlling the heat pump and the main heating pipe to heat the water in the water tank. When the flow-out amount does not exceed the preset water amount, it indicates that there is more high-temperature water in the water tank. At this time, the heat pump and the main heating pipe are started to slowly heat the whole water tank. When the flow-out amount exceeds the preset water amount, it indicates that the high-temperature water in the water tank has flowed out. At this time, the supplementary heating pipe is started to quickly heat the water in the water tank, so that the water temperature is ensured, and the user is prevented from being scalded due to the excessively high water outlet temperature.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to home appliance control technology, and more particularly to a heating control method, device, water heater, and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] Heat pump water heaters, generally referring to air source heat pump water heaters, operate on a principle very similar to air conditioners. They use a small amount of electricity to drive a compressor. High-pressure liquid refrigerant evaporates into a gaseous state in the evaporator after passing through an expansion valve, absorbing a large amount of heat energy from the air. The gaseous refrigerant is then compressed by the compressor into a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid state, which then enters the condenser to release heat and heat the water. Compared to electric water heaters, heat pump water heaters are more energy-efficient.

[0003] The heat pump in a heat pump water heater typically operates on the entire tank, resulting in a relatively slow heating speed. Therefore, it is usually equipped with an electric heater (such as a heating element) to assist in heating. However, water heaters with both heat pumps and electric heaters can easily lead to excessively high water temperatures, causing scalding to users. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a heating control method, device, water heater, and storage medium that can ensure the water temperature while preventing the water from being scalded due to excessively high outlet temperature.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a heating control method applied to a water heater, the water heater comprising a water tank and a heat pump and a main heating element acting on the water tank as a whole, the water heater further comprising an auxiliary heating element acting on the outlet of the water tank, the method comprising:

[0006] Determine the outflow rate of water in the water tank whose temperature exceeds the preset water temperature of the water heater;

[0007] When the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, the auxiliary heating pipe is controlled to heat the water in the water tank;

[0008] When the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, the heat pump and the main heating pipe are controlled to heat the water in the water tank.

[0009] Secondly, the present invention provides a heating control device applied to a water heater, the water heater including a water tank and a heat pump and a main heating pipe acting on the water tank as a whole, the water heater also including an auxiliary heating pipe acting on the water outlet of the water tank, the device comprising:

[0010] The determining module is used to determine the outflow amount of water in the water tank whose temperature exceeds the preset water temperature of the water heater;

[0011] The first control module is used to control the auxiliary heating pipe to heat the water in the water tank when the outflow exceeds the preset water volume;

[0012] The second control module is used to control the heat pump and the main heating pipe to heat the water in the water tank when the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume.

[0013] Thirdly, the present invention also provides a water heater, including a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the processor executes the program to implement the heating control method as described in any of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0014] Fourthly, embodiments of the present invention also provide a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the heating control method as described in any of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0015] In this invention, the water heater includes a water tank, a heat pump acting on the entire water tank, and a main heating element. The water heater also includes an auxiliary heating element acting on the water outlet of the water tank. The system determines whether to activate the auxiliary heating element or the heat pump and main heating element based on the outflow of water exceeding a preset water temperature from the water tank. Specifically, when the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, the heat pump and main heating element heat the water in the tank; when the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, the auxiliary heating element heats the water in the tank. When the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, it indicates that there is a relatively large amount of hot water in the tank, and the heat pump and main heating element are activated to slowly heat the entire water tank. When the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, it indicates that hot water has already flowed out of the tank, and the auxiliary heating element is activated to quickly heat the water in the tank, ensuring the water temperature while preventing scalding to the user due to excessively high outlet water temperature. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, 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 the present invention and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic flowchart of the heating control method provided by the present invention;

[0018] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water heater provided by the present invention;

[0019] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a method provided by the present invention for determining the outflow amount of water exceeding a preset water temperature;

[0020] Figure 4 This is an example diagram illustrating the determination of the outflow rate of water exceeding a preset water temperature provided by the present invention.

[0021] Figure 5 This is an example diagram of the heating control method provided by the present invention;

[0022] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the heating control device provided by the present invention;

[0023] Figure 7 This is another structural schematic diagram of the water heater provided by the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the invention and not intended to limit it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, the accompanying drawings show only the parts relevant to the present invention, and not all of the structures.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic flowchart of a heating control method provided by the present invention. This method can be executed by a heating control device provided in an embodiment of the present invention, which can be implemented using software and / or hardware. In a specific embodiment, the device can be integrated into a water heater. The following embodiments will illustrate this using the integration of the device into a water heater as an example.

[0026] Before introducing the control method of the embodiments of the present invention, let's first introduce the water heater of the embodiments of the present invention, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the water heater in this embodiment of the invention can be a heat pump water heater. The heat source of the water heater can be an air source. The water heater can include a water tank, a heat pump acting on the entire water tank, a main heating element, and an auxiliary heating element acting on the water outlet of the water tank. Cold water enters from the bottom of the water tank and hot water exits from the top. The main heating element is generally located in the lower middle part of the water tank, while the auxiliary heating element is generally located at the water outlet. The heating power of the auxiliary heating element can be greater than that of the main heating element. The shape of the auxiliary heating element can be different from that of the main heating element; for example, the auxiliary heating element can be irregular in shape. An irregular shape can increase the contact area with water, achieving a localized rapid heating effect. The main heating element, on the other hand, can have a regular shape. Typically, the main heating element and the heat pump can be used simultaneously, while the auxiliary heating element can be used independently.

[0027] In addition, the water heater may also include a temperature sensor for measuring the water temperature inside the tank, a flow sensor for detecting the current water flow rate, and a mixing valve for controlling the mixing of water. The temperature sensor may include one or more sensors. When there is only one temperature sensor for measuring the water temperature inside the tank, this sensor can be located in the middle of the tank. When there are multiple temperature sensors, these sensors can be distributed in different locations inside the tank, and the water temperature inside the tank can be determined based on the average value of the measurement data from multiple sensors. For example, when there are two temperature sensors for measuring the water temperature inside the tank, one sensor can be located in the upper part of the tank, and the other sensor can be located in the lower part of the tank. The average value of the measurement data from these two sensors is used to determine the current water temperature inside the tank. Because the water heater environment is closed, the outlet flow rate equals the inlet flow rate; therefore, the flow sensor can be located at either the inlet or the outlet. Figure 2 As shown, the flow sensor is installed on the outlet pipe. The mixing valve can be installed on the water line at the outlet to control the mixing amount or mixing ratio of cold and hot water.

[0028] For auxiliary heating tubes, Figure 2 In the water heater shown, the auxiliary heating pipe is located at the top of the water tank near the water outlet. In practical applications, the auxiliary heating pipe can also be installed on the water line outside the water tank at the water outlet. For example, the auxiliary heating pipe can be installed around the water outlet pipe, or the auxiliary heating pipe can be built into the water outlet pipe. The specific installation method depends on the specific needs.

[0029] It should be noted that, Figure 2 The structure of the water heater shown is merely an example and does not constitute the only limitation on the structure of water heaters. See below for further reference. Figure 1 The water heater control method of this invention may specifically include the following steps:

[0030] Step 101: Determine the outflow of water in the water tank whose temperature exceeds the preset water temperature of the water heater.

[0031] For example, a water flow sensor can be installed on the water line at the outlet of the water tank. The data from this sensor determines the outflow rate of water exceeding the preset water temperature of the water heater. This outflow rate represents the water volume, which can be measured in liters (L). The preset water temperature can be set according to actual needs, such as 45℃ or 50℃. Alternatively, a temperature sensor installed inside the water tank can continuously monitor the water temperature. Based on changes in the tank temperature, the start time for recording the outflow rate can be determined. At that moment, the water flow sensor begins recording the water output from the water heater, thus obtaining the outflow rate of water exceeding the preset water temperature.

[0032] Step 102: When the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, control the auxiliary heating pipe to heat the water in the water tank.

[0033] The preset water volume can be set according to the location of the temperature sensor in the water tank and the volume of the water tank. For example, when there is only one temperature sensor and it is set in the middle of the water tank, the preset water volume can be set according to the volume of the water tank above the temperature sensor. When there are two or more temperature sensors, they can be set in different positions in the water tank, and the preset water volume can be set according to the volume of the water tank above the temperature sensor at the top of the water tank. The following embodiments will be described using the case of only one temperature sensor as an example.

[0034] When the outflow of water exceeding the preset water temperature from the tank exceeds the preset flow rate, it indicates that warmer water has already flowed out. At this point, the overall water temperature in the tank is relatively low, requiring rapid temperature increases to maintain the desired hot water temperature. In this invention, the heat pump and main heating element act on the entire tank, which is typically large (e.g., 150 liters or 200 liters). Heating the entire tank takes a considerable amount of time, potentially one or two hours. If hot water is urgently needed, the heat pump and main heating element may not be sufficient. The auxiliary heating element, acting on a specific area of ​​the tank (outlet), can rapidly heat that area. If hot water is urgently needed, activating the auxiliary heating element can quickly meet the requirement. Therefore, in this situation, the auxiliary heating element can be activated to rapidly raise the water temperature. Furthermore, since the overall water temperature in the tank is low, the initial water temperature upon activating the auxiliary heating element is also low, preventing excessively hot water from scalding the user.

[0035] Since the heat pump, main heating element, and auxiliary heating element all require power to operate, and due to cost constraints, the power supply circuit is typically a standard load circuit, operating all three simultaneously could lead to circuit overload. Therefore, in practical applications, the heat pump, main heating element, and auxiliary heating element are not used concurrently. When the auxiliary heating element needs to be activated, if the heat pump and main heating element are already active, they should be turned off first, and then the auxiliary heating element should be activated. For example, if the maximum load limit of the power supply circuit is 3000 watts, the load for the heat pump and main heating element to be on simultaneously is 2800 watts, and the load for the auxiliary heating element to be on is 2500 watts, then the heat pump, main heating element, and auxiliary heating element should be avoided from operating simultaneously.

[0036] Step 103: When the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, control the heat pump and main heating pipe to heat the water in the water tank.

[0037] When the outflow of water from the tank that is hotter than the water heater's preset temperature does not exceed the preset volume, it means that not all the hot water in the tank has flowed out. In this case, if the auxiliary heating element is activated, the initial water temperature may be too high, potentially causing scalding to the user. Therefore, it is not advisable to activate the auxiliary heating element. Instead, the heat pump and main heating element should be used to slowly heat the water in the tank to ensure the water temperature is maintained while preventing scalding.

[0038] In this invention, the water heater includes a water tank, a heat pump acting on the entire water tank, and a main heating element. The water heater also includes an auxiliary heating element acting on the water outlet of the water tank. The system determines whether to activate the auxiliary heating element or the heat pump and main heating element based on the outflow of water exceeding a preset water temperature from the water tank. Specifically, when the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, the heat pump and main heating element heat the water in the tank; when the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, the auxiliary heating element heats the water in the tank. When the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, it indicates that there is a relatively large amount of hot water in the tank, and the heat pump and main heating element are activated to slowly heat the entire water tank. When the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, it indicates that hot water has already flowed out of the tank, and the auxiliary heating element is activated to quickly heat the water in the tank, ensuring the water temperature while preventing scalding to the user due to excessively high outlet water temperature.

[0039] In a specific implementation, the water heater of the present invention may have a first flag bit and a second flag bit. Initially, both the first flag bit and the second flag bit are set to 0. The first flag bit is used to record the change in water temperature inside the tank from below a first preset temperature to above a first preset temperature. For example, the first flag bit can be set to 1 when the water temperature inside the tank changes from below a first preset temperature to above a first preset temperature, at which time the second flag bit is 0. The second flag bit is used to record the change in water temperature inside the tank from above a second preset temperature to below a second preset temperature. For example, the second flag bit can be set to 1 when the water temperature inside the tank changes from above a second preset temperature to below a second preset temperature, at which time the first flag bit is 0. The first preset temperature is greater than the second preset temperature, and the second preset temperature is greater than the preset water temperature. For example, the preset water temperature is 45°C, the second preset temperature is 47°C, and the first preset temperature is 48°C. The water volume recording time can be determined based on the setting of these two flags. At that time, the water volume outflow from the tank can be recorded, thus obtaining the outflow amount of water whose temperature exceeds the preset water temperature of the water heater. The specific method for determining the outflow amount of water whose temperature exceeds the preset water temperature can be as follows: Figure 3 As shown, it includes the following steps:

[0040] Step 1011: Monitor the water temperature inside the water tank.

[0041] In practice, the water temperature inside the tank may fluctuate due to the start and stop of water usage and heating devices; for example, the water temperature may rise or fall. A temperature sensor installed inside the tank can continuously monitor the water temperature to obtain a real-time value. If the real-time water temperature changes from below a first preset temperature to above a first preset temperature, the first flag is set to 1 (initially, the first flag can be 0). If the real-time water temperature drops from above the first preset temperature to a second preset temperature, the second flag is set to 1 (initially, the second flag can be 0), and the first flag is set to 0.

[0042] Step 1012: Determine the water volume recording time based on the changes in water temperature inside the tank.

[0043] Based on the records of the first and second flag bits, the moment when the water temperature inside the tank drops from a first preset temperature to a second preset temperature can be determined, and this moment can be designated as the water volume recording moment. For example, continuing from the previous example, the moment when the first flag bit is 0 and the second flag bit is 1 can be designated as the water volume recording moment.

[0044] Step 1013: Start recording the water output from the water tank from the water volume recording time to obtain the outflow of water whose temperature exceeds the preset water temperature of the water heater.

[0045] Specifically, a water flow sensor can be installed on the water line at the water tank outlet to record the water flow from the tank starting from the water flow recording time, thus obtaining the outflow rate. Let the first flag be represented by B1, the second flag by B2, the water temperature inside the tank by Tw, the first preset temperature by T1, the second preset temperature by T2, and the outflow rate of water whose temperature exceeds the preset water temperature of the water heater by Q. The logic for determining the outflow rate can then be as follows: Figure 4 As shown. Figure 4 As shown, B1 and B2 are initially both 0. When the water temperature in the tank exceeds the first preset temperature (Tw>T1), B1 is set to 1, B2 is set to 0, and Q is cleared to zero. After that, the water temperature in the tank drops until it drops to the second preset temperature (Tw≤T2). Then, B2 is set to 1, B1 is set to 0, and Q is recorded.

[0046] By using the recording status of two flag bits to determine the water volume recording time, the water output recording time can be accurately determined. Setting two temperatures higher than the preset water temperature is equivalent to setting a double buffer flow for the water heater, avoiding the situation where the water output temperature is too high later. Combined with recording the water output from the water volume recording time, the accuracy of the recorded water output exceeding the preset water temperature can be guaranteed, thereby improving the accuracy of subsequent control.

[0047] In specific implementation, when the outflow of water with a temperature exceeding the preset water temperature of the water heater does not exceed the preset water volume, controlling the heat pump and main heating element to heat the water in the tank can include:

[0048] When the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, the water temperature inside the tank is obtained;

[0049] If the water temperature inside the tank does not reach the preset water temperature, the heat pump and main heating element will be controlled to heat the water in the tank; if the water temperature inside the tank reaches the preset water temperature, heating will stop.

[0050] When the water in the tank is too hot and has not all flowed out, the current water temperature inside the tank will be measured. If the water temperature inside the tank has not reached the preset water temperature, but there is still water in the tank that is too hot, in order to avoid the auxiliary heating pipe from turning on and causing the outlet water temperature to be too high and causing scalding, the auxiliary heating pipe can be turned off. Instead, the heat pump and the main heating pipe can be turned on to slowly heat the water in the tank to ensure the water temperature as much as possible. If the water temperature inside the tank reaches the preset water temperature, all heating devices can be turned off to avoid the water temperature from being too high.

[0051] In specific implementation, when the outflow of water from the water tank exceeding the preset water temperature exceeds the preset water volume, controlling the auxiliary heating element to heat the water in the tank can include:

[0052] When the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, the current water flow rate of the water heater is detected;

[0053] When the current water flow exceeds the preset flow rate and the duration of exceeding the preset flow rate exceeds the preset duration, the water temperature inside the tank is obtained; if the water temperature inside the tank reaches the activation temperature threshold of the auxiliary heating pipe but does not reach the preset water temperature, the auxiliary heating pipe is controlled to heat the water in the tank, and the activation temperature threshold is lower than the preset water temperature; if the water temperature inside the tank does not reach the activation temperature threshold of the auxiliary heating pipe, the heat pump and the main heating pipe are controlled to heat the water in the tank.

[0054] If the current water flow rate does not exceed the preset flow rate, or if the current water flow rate exceeds the preset flow rate but the duration of exceeding the preset flow rate does not exceed the preset duration, determine whether the water temperature in the tank exceeds the preset water temperature; if the water temperature in the tank does not exceed the preset water temperature, control the heat pump and main heating pipe to heat the water in the tank; if the water temperature in the tank exceeds the preset water temperature, turn off all heating devices and stop heating.

[0055] Specifically, a flow sensor installed on the water heater can be used to detect the current water flow rate. Water flow rate, also known as flow velocity, represents the amount of water flowing through the tank per unit time. For example, the unit of water flow rate can be liters per minute (L / min). Preset flow rate and preset duration are mainly set for the auxiliary heating element, primarily used to determine its on / off state. The preset flow rate can be set according to water demand and the performance of the auxiliary heating element. The preset duration can be, for example, 10 seconds, 15 seconds, etc. The duration refers to the duration for which the water flow rate exceeds the preset flow rate.

[0056] If the current water flow exceeds the preset flow rate and the duration of exceeding the preset flow rate exceeds the preset duration, it indicates that the water heater is currently in a stable water usage state, such as when the user is taking a shower. In this case, a timely and sufficient supply of hot water is required. If the water temperature in the tank does not reach the activation temperature threshold of the auxiliary heating element, the auxiliary heating element will not be activated because the water temperature in the tank is too low, and activating the auxiliary heating element will not be able to achieve the required outlet water temperature. In this case, the heat pump and main heating element can be activated to slowly heat the water in the tank. If the water temperature in the tank reaches the activation temperature threshold of the auxiliary heating element but does not reach the preset water temperature, it means that although the water temperature in the tank is low, activating the auxiliary heating element can ensure that the water temperature meets the requirements without causing the outlet water temperature to be too high. In this case, the auxiliary heating element can be activated to ensure that the outlet water temperature meets the user's requirements as quickly as possible.

[0057] If the current water flow rate does not exceed the preset flow rate, or if the current water flow rate exceeds the preset flow rate but the duration of exceeding the preset flow rate does not exceed the preset duration, it indicates that the water heater is not currently in use, or is in an unstable use state. For example, the user may only turn on the water for a few seconds to wash their hands, and there is no urgent need for the water heater to supply hot water. In this case, the current water temperature in the tank can be further assessed. If the water temperature in the tank has not reached the preset water temperature, the heat pump and main heating element can be turned on to slowly heat the water in the tank. If the water temperature in the tank has reached the preset water temperature, heating the water in the tank can be discontinued, and all heating devices can be turned off to save energy consumption.

[0058] Let Q represent the outflow of water from the tank whose temperature exceeds the preset water temperature of the water heater; V represent the preset water volume; q represent the current water flow rate; q1 represent the preset start-up flow rate of the auxiliary heating element; q2 represent the preset shut-off flow rate of the auxiliary heating element (q1 is greater than q2); t represent the duration of the state where the water flow rate exceeds the preset flow rate (t1 is the preset duration); Tw represent the water temperature in the tank; Tset represents the preset water temperature; and T represents the activation temperature threshold of the auxiliary heating element (T is less than Tset). After determining the outflow of water from the tank whose temperature exceeds the preset water temperature of the water heater, the control logic can be as follows: Figure 5 As shown:

[0059] If Q≥V, it indicates that all the water with relatively high temperature in the water tank has flowed out, and it is determined whether the current water flow rate exceeds the preset flow rate and the duration of exceeding the preset flow rate exceeds the preset duration, that is, it is determined whether the conditions of q≥q1 and t≥t1 are satisfied; if the conditions of q≥q1 and t≥t1 are satisfied, it indicates that the water heater is in a stable water usage state where q≥q2 and timely and sufficient hot water supply is required, the water temperature Tw in the tank is further judged, and if Tw<T, that is, the water temperature in the tank does not reach the activation temperature threshold of the auxiliary heating pipe, the heat pump and the main heating pipe are used to heat the water in the water tank; if T<Tw<Tset, that is, the water temperature in the tank has reached the activation temperature threshold of the auxiliary heating pipe and the current water temperature has not reached the required water usage temperature, the auxiliary heating pipe can be used to heat the water in the water tank, so that the required hot water can be provided to the user timely and quickly; if Tw≥Tset, the heating is stopped; if the conditions of q≥q1 and t≥t1 are not satisfied, it indicates that the water heater is not in a water usage state, or that the water heater is in an unstable water usage state, then it can be judged whether the water temperature Tw in the tank reaches the preset water usage temperature, if Tw≤Tset, it indicates that the water temperature Tw in the tank does not reach the preset water usage temperature, then the heat pump and the main heating pipe can be used to slowly heat the water in the water tank; if Tw>Tset, the heating is stopped. In addition, if B1=0 and B2=0, the judgment on whether the conditions of q≥q1 and t≥t1 are satisfied is also entered.

[0060] If Q<V, it indicates that all the water with relatively high temperature in the water tank has not flowed out, the water temperature in the water tank is still relatively high, and turning on the auxiliary heating pipe is likely to cause excessively high outlet water temperature, then the water temperature Tw in the tank can be further judged, if Tw≤Tset, the heat pump and the main heating pipe can be used to slowly heat the water in the water tank, and if Tw>Tset, the heating is stopped.

[0061] In this embodiment, two preset flow rates can be set, namely a preset start flow rate q1 and a preset shutoff flow rate q2, and the preset start flow rate is greater than the preset shutoff flow rate, for example, the preset start flow rate can be 2.5L / min, and the preset shutoff flow rate can be 1.5L / min. In principle, when the current water flow rate exceeds the preset start flow rate and the duration of exceeding the preset start flow rate exceeds the preset duration, it is determined that the start condition of the auxiliary heating pipe is preliminarily satisfied; when the current water flow rate is less than the preset shutoff flow rate, it is determined that the shutoff condition of the auxiliary heating pipe is preliminarily satisfied, which can avoid the frequent start and stop of the auxiliary heating pipe from affecting the service life of the auxiliary heating pipe.

[0062] Figure 6 is a schematic structural diagram of a heating control apparatus provided in an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus is applied to a water heater, the water heater comprises a water tank, and a heat pump and a main heating pipe acting on the whole water tank, the water heater further comprises an auxiliary heating pipe acting on the water outlet of the water tank, and the apparatus comprises:

[0063] The determining module 401 is used to determine the outflow amount of water in the water tank whose temperature exceeds the preset water temperature of the water heater;

[0064] The first control module 402 is used to control the auxiliary heating pipe to heat the water in the water tank when the outflow exceeds the preset water volume;

[0065] The second control module 403 is used to control the heat pump and the main heating pipe to heat the water in the water tank when the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume.

[0066] In one embodiment, the determining module 401 is specifically used for:

[0067] Monitor the water temperature inside the water tank;

[0068] The water volume recording time is determined based on the changes in water temperature inside the tank;

[0069] The outflow rate is obtained by recording the water volume from the water tank starting from the water volume recording time.

[0070] In one embodiment, the determining module 401 determines the water volume recording time based on the change in water temperature inside the tank, including:

[0071] The moment when the water temperature inside the tank drops from a first preset temperature to a second preset temperature is determined, and the water volume recording time is obtained. The first preset temperature is greater than the second preset temperature, and the second preset temperature is greater than the preset water temperature.

[0072] In one embodiment, the water heater has a first flag and a second flag. The first flag is used to record when the water temperature inside the tank exceeds a first preset temperature, and the second flag is used to record when the water temperature inside the tank drops to the second preset temperature. The determining module 401 determines the time when the water temperature inside the tank drops from the first preset temperature to the second preset temperature, including:

[0073] Based on the records of the first flag bit and the second flag bit, determine the moment when the water temperature inside the tank drops from the first preset temperature to the second preset temperature.

[0074] In one embodiment, a temperature sensor is installed in the middle of the water tank, the water tank has water inlet at the bottom and water outlet at the top, and the determining module 401 monitors the water temperature inside the water tank, including:

[0075] The temperature sensor is used to monitor the water temperature inside the water tank;

[0076] The preset water volume is set according to the volume of the water tank above the temperature sensor.

[0077] In one embodiment, the second control module 403 is specifically used for:

[0078] When the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, the water temperature inside the water tank is obtained;

[0079] If the water temperature in the tank does not reach the preset water temperature, the heat pump and the main heating pipe are controlled to heat the water in the tank.

[0080] In one embodiment, the first control module 402 is specifically used for:

[0081] When the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, the current water flow rate of the water heater is detected;

[0082] When the current water flow rate exceeds the preset flow rate and the duration of exceeding the preset flow rate exceeds the preset duration, the water temperature inside the water tank is obtained;

[0083] If the water temperature in the tank reaches the activation temperature threshold of the auxiliary heating tube but does not reach the preset water temperature, the auxiliary heating tube is controlled to heat the water in the tank, and the activation temperature threshold is less than the preset water temperature.

[0084] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the above-described division of functional modules is merely an example. In practical applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above. The specific working process of the functional modules described above can be referred to the corresponding process in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0085] In this invention, the water heater includes a water tank, a heat pump acting on the entire water tank, and a main heating element. The water heater also includes an auxiliary heating element acting on the water outlet of the water tank. The system determines whether to activate the auxiliary heating element or the heat pump and main heating element based on the outflow of water exceeding a preset water temperature from the water tank. Specifically, when the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, the heat pump and main heating element heat the water in the tank; when the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, the auxiliary heating element heats the water in the tank. When the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, it indicates that there is a relatively large amount of hot water in the tank, and the heat pump and main heating element are activated to slowly heat the entire water tank. When the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, it indicates that hot water has already flowed out of the tank, and the auxiliary heating element is activated to quickly heat the water in the tank, ensuring the water temperature while preventing scalding to the user due to excessively high outlet water temperature.

[0086] This invention also provides a water heater, including a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor. When the processor executes the program, it implements the heating control method provided in any of the above embodiments.

[0087] This invention also provides a computer-readable medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the heating control method provided in any of the above embodiments.

[0088] The following is for reference. Figure 7 It shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a computer system 500 suitable for implementing an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 The water heater shown is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting the functionality and scope of use of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0089] like Figure 7 As shown, the computer system 500 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 501, which can perform various appropriate actions and processes based on programs stored in read-only memory (ROM) 502 or programs loaded from storage section 508 into random access memory (RAM) 503. The RAM 503 also stores various programs and data required for the operation of the computer system 500. The CPU 501, ROM 502, and RAM 503 are interconnected via a bus 504. An input / output (I / O) interface 505 is also connected to the bus 504.

[0090] The following components are connected to I / O interface 505: an input section 506 including a keyboard, mouse, etc.; an output section 507 including a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), etc., and speakers, etc.; a storage section 508 including a hard disk, etc.; and a communication section 509 including a network interface card such as a LAN card, modem, etc. The communication section 509 performs communication processing via a network such as the Internet. A drive 510 is also connected to I / O interface 505 as needed. A removable medium 511, such as a disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, semiconductor memory, etc., is installed on drive 510 as needed so that computer programs read from it can be installed into storage section 508 as needed.

[0091] In particular, according to the embodiments disclosed in this invention, the processes described above with reference to the flowcharts can be implemented as computer software programs. For example, embodiments disclosed in this invention include a computer program product comprising a computer program carried on a computer-readable medium, the computer program containing program code for performing the methods shown in the flowcharts. In such embodiments, the computer program can be downloaded and installed from a network via communication section 509, and / or installed from removable medium 511. When the computer program is executed by central processing unit (CPU) 501, it performs the functions defined above in the system of this invention.

[0092] It should be noted that the computer-readable medium shown in this invention can be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium, or any combination thereof. A computer-readable storage medium can be, for example,—but not limited to—an electrical, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any combination thereof. More specific examples of a computer-readable storage medium may include, but are not limited to: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer disk, a hard disk, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fiber, portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage device, magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination thereof. In this invention, a computer-readable storage medium can be any tangible medium containing or storing a program that can be used by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. In this invention, a computer-readable signal medium can include a data signal propagated in baseband or as part of a carrier wave, carrying computer-readable program code. Such propagated data signals can take various forms, including but not limited to electromagnetic signals, optical signals, or any suitable combination thereof. Computer-readable signal media can also be any computer-readable medium other than computer-readable storage media, which can send, propagate, or transmit a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The program code contained on the computer-readable medium can be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to: wireless, wire, optical fiber, RF, etc., or any suitable combination thereof.

[0093] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions indicated in the blocks may occur in a different order than those indicated in the drawings. For example, two consecutively indicated blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. It should also be noted that each block in a block diagram or flowchart, and combinations of blocks in a block diagram or flowchart, may be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or operation, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0094] The modules and / or units described in the embodiments of the present invention can be implemented in software or hardware. The described modules and / or units can also be housed in a processor; for example, a processor can be described as including a determining module, a first control module, and a second control module. The names of these modules do not necessarily limit the module itself.

[0095] In another aspect, the present invention also provides a computer-readable medium, which may be included in the device described in the above embodiments; or it may exist independently and not assembled into the device. The computer-readable medium carries one or more programs that, when executed by the device, cause the device to: determine the outflow rate of water in the water tank whose temperature exceeds a preset water temperature of the water heater; when the outflow rate exceeds a preset water volume, control the auxiliary heating element to heat the water in the water tank; and when the outflow rate does not exceed the preset water volume, control the heat pump and the main heating element to heat the water in the water tank.

[0096] According to the technical solution of the present invention, the water heater includes a water tank, a heat pump acting on the entire water tank, and a main heating element. The water heater also includes an auxiliary heating element acting on the water outlet of the water tank. The system determines whether to activate the auxiliary heating element or the heat pump and main heating element based on the outflow of water exceeding a preset water temperature from the water tank. Specifically, when the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, the heat pump and main heating element heat the water in the tank; when the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, the auxiliary heating element heats the water in the tank. When the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, it indicates that there is a relatively large amount of hot water in the tank, and the heat pump and main heating element are activated to slowly heat the entire water tank. When the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, it indicates that hot water has already flowed out of the tank, and the auxiliary heating element is activated to quickly heat the water in the tank, ensuring the water temperature while preventing scalding to the user due to excessively high outlet water temperature.

[0097] 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 occur depending on 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 heating control method, characterized in that, The method is applied to a water heater, which includes a water tank, a heat pump acting on the water tank as a whole, and a main heating element. The water heater also includes an auxiliary heating element acting on the outlet of the water tank. Determine the outflow rate of water in the water tank whose temperature exceeds the preset water temperature of the water heater; When the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, the auxiliary heating pipe is controlled to heat the water in the water tank; When the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, the heat pump and the main heating pipe are controlled to heat the water in the water tank; Determining the outflow amount of water in the water tank whose temperature exceeds the preset water temperature of the water heater includes: Monitor the water temperature inside the water tank; The water volume recording time is determined based on the changes in water temperature inside the tank; The outflow rate is obtained by recording the water volume from the water tank starting from the water volume recording time. The step of determining the water volume recording time based on the change in water temperature inside the tank includes: The moment when the water temperature inside the tank drops from a first preset temperature to a second preset temperature is determined, and the water volume recording time is obtained. The first preset temperature is greater than the second preset temperature, and the second preset temperature is greater than the preset water temperature.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water heater has a first flag and a second flag. The first flag is used to record when the water temperature inside the tank exceeds a first preset temperature, and the second flag is used to record when the water temperature inside the tank drops to the second preset temperature. Determining the moment when the water temperature inside the tank drops from the first preset temperature to the second preset temperature includes: Based on the records of the first flag bit and the second flag bit, determine the moment when the water temperature inside the tank drops from the first preset temperature to the second preset temperature.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, A temperature sensor is installed in the middle of the water tank. The water tank has water inlet at the bottom and water outlet at the top. Monitoring the water temperature inside the tank includes: The temperature sensor is used to monitor the water temperature inside the water tank; The preset water volume is set according to the volume of the water tank above the temperature sensor.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of controlling the heat pump and the main heating pipe to heat the water in the water tank when the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume includes: When the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume, the water temperature inside the water tank is obtained; If the water temperature in the tank does not reach the preset water temperature, the heat pump and the main heating pipe are controlled to heat the water in the tank.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of controlling the auxiliary heating pipe to heat the water in the water tank when the outflow exceeds the preset water volume includes: When the outflow exceeds the preset water volume, the current water flow rate of the water heater is detected; When the current water flow rate exceeds the preset flow rate and the duration of exceeding the preset flow rate exceeds the preset duration, the water temperature inside the water tank is obtained; If the water temperature in the tank reaches the activation temperature threshold of the auxiliary heating tube but does not reach the preset water temperature, the auxiliary heating tube is controlled to heat the water in the tank, and the activation temperature threshold is less than the preset water temperature.

6. A heating control device, characterized in that, An apparatus for use in a water heater, the water heater comprising a water tank and a heat pump and a main heating element acting on the water tank as a whole, the water heater further comprising an auxiliary heating element acting on the outlet of the water tank, the apparatus being used to execute the heating control method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, the apparatus comprising: The determining module is used to determine the outflow amount of water in the water tank whose temperature exceeds the preset water temperature of the water heater; The first control module is used to control the auxiliary heating pipe to heat the water in the water tank when the outflow exceeds the preset water volume; The second control module is used to control the heat pump and the main heating pipe to heat the water in the water tank when the outflow does not exceed the preset water volume.

7. A water heater, comprising a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, characterized in that, When the processor executes the program, it implements the heating control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the program is executed by the processor, it implements the heating control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 5.

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