A control method of an electric water heater and the electric water heater

Abstract

The application relates to a control method of an electric water heater and the electric water heater, and relates to the technical field of electric water heaters. The method comprises the following steps: acquiring a first starting water outlet temperature and a first ending water use temperature in a large amount of water use period; if the first ending water use temperature is less than or equal to a hot water amount judgment temperature threshold value, and the first starting water outlet temperature is greater than or equal to a target heating temperature, the target heating temperature is adjusted higher according to a first temperature adjustment rule; if the first ending water use temperature is greater than the hot water amount judgment temperature threshold value, and a real-time detected middle water temperature of an inner container is greater than or equal to an inner container water temperature threshold value, the target heating temperature is adjusted lower according to a second temperature adjustment rule; if the first ending water use temperature is greater than the hot water amount judgment temperature threshold value, and the real-time detected middle water temperature of the inner container is less than the inner container water temperature threshold value, the target heating temperature is maintained; and the inner container stored water is heated according to the target heating temperature. The application can automatically adjust the target heating temperature according to the water use condition of a user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electric water heater technology, and in particular to a control method for an electric water heater and an electric water heater. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, most electric water heaters in the industry come with a target heating temperature adjustment function, allowing users to manually adjust the target heating temperature of the water heater.

[0003] However, different water usage scenarios require different target heating temperatures. For example, when showering, the demand for hot water is high, so the target heating temperature should be set to a high temperature. Conversely, when washing dishes, the demand for hot water is low, so the target heating temperature should be lower. Setting the temperature to a consistently high range will waste excess hot water, which is extremely detrimental to energy conservation and electricity saving. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to high water temperatures can exacerbate limescale buildup. Conversely, setting the temperature too low may result in insufficient hot water, thus affecting water comfort.

[0004] Obviously, it is extremely inconvenient and unintelligent for users to adjust the target heating temperature according to the water usage scenario before each use. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a control method for electric water heaters. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a control method for an electric water heater and an electric water heater in response to the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0006] In a first aspect, a method for controlling an electric water heater is provided, the method comprising:

[0007] Obtain the first initial outlet water temperature and the first final water temperature corresponding to the period of high water usage of the electric water heater;

[0008] If the first end water temperature is less than or equal to the preset hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the first start water temperature is greater than or equal to the preset target heating temperature, then the preset target heating temperature is increased according to the preset first temperature adjustment rule.

[0009] If the first end water temperature is greater than the hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the real-time detected water temperature in the middle of the inner tank is greater than or equal to the preset inner tank water temperature threshold, then the preset target heating temperature is lowered according to the preset second temperature adjustment rule.

[0010] If the first end water temperature is greater than the hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the real-time detected water temperature in the middle of the inner tank is less than the preset inner tank water temperature threshold, then the preset target heating temperature is maintained.

[0011] As an optional implementation, obtaining the first initial outlet water temperature and the first final water temperature corresponding to the period of high water usage of the electric water heater includes:

[0012] The water usage duration, second initial water outlet temperature, second final water usage temperature, and interval duration between adjacent water usage periods are obtained for each water usage period.

[0013] The total water usage time is determined based on the interval between adjacent water usage periods, the water usage duration of each water usage period, and a preset threshold for continuous water usage interval.

[0014] If the total water usage duration is greater than or equal to a preset threshold for a large amount of water usage duration, then the water usage period corresponding to the total water usage duration is determined as the large amount of water usage period.

[0015] The second starting water temperature corresponding to the first water usage period and the second ending water temperature corresponding to the last water usage period in the large water usage period are respectively determined as the first starting water temperature and the first ending water temperature corresponding to the large water usage period.

[0016] As an optional implementation, obtaining the water usage duration, the second initial outlet water temperature, the second final water usage temperature, and the interval between adjacent water usage periods in each water usage period includes:

[0017] Obtain the real-time water flow rate of the inlet pipe of the electric water heater;

[0018] The water usage status of the electric water heater is determined based on the real-time inlet water flow rate, the preset hot water flow rate threshold, and the hot water shut-off flow rate threshold.

[0019] When the water usage status of the electric water heater is detected to switch from the off state to the on state, the second initial water outlet temperature and the initial water outlet time of the electric water heater are obtained after a preset temperature stabilization time.

[0020] When the electric water heater is detected to switch from the hot water state to the off water state, the second end water temperature and the end water time of the water outlet pipe are obtained.

[0021] The time period between the start time of water discharge and the end time of water use is defined as the water use period, and the time difference between the end time of water use and the start time of water discharge is defined as the water use duration corresponding to the water use period.

[0022] The time difference between the start time of the next water usage period and the end time of the previous water usage period is determined as the interval between the adjacent water usage periods.

[0023] As an optional implementation, determining the water usage status of the electric water heater based on the real-time inlet water flow rate, a preset hot water flow rate threshold, and a hot water shut-off flow rate threshold includes:

[0024] If the real-time inlet water flow rate is greater than or equal to the boiling water flow rate threshold, then the water usage status of the electric water heater is boiling water status;

[0025] If the real-time inflow rate is less than the water shut-off flow rate threshold, then the water usage status of the electric water heater is the water shut-off status.

[0026] As an optional implementation, determining the total water usage time based on the interval between adjacent water usage periods, the water usage duration of each water usage period, and a preset threshold for continuous water usage interval includes:

[0027] If the interval between adjacent water usage periods is less than or equal to the threshold for consecutive water usage intervals, then the sum of the water usage durations of the adjacent water usage periods is determined as the total water usage duration.

[0028] If the interval between adjacent water usage periods is longer than the preset continuous water usage interval length threshold, and the water usage duration of the preceding water usage period in the adjacent water usage periods is longer than the preset large water usage duration threshold, then the water usage duration of the preceding water usage period in the adjacent water usage periods is determined as the total water usage duration.

[0029] As an optional implementation, increasing the preset target heating temperature according to a preset first temperature adjustment rule includes:

[0030] Increase the target heating temperature by a first preset number of unit temperatures.

[0031] As an optional implementation, lowering the preset target heating temperature according to a preset second temperature adjustment rule includes:

[0032] The target heating temperature is reduced by a second preset number of unit temperatures.

[0033] As an optional implementation, the preset hot water volume determination temperature threshold is set in the range of 40°C to 45°C, the preset target heating temperature is 65°C, and the preset inner tank water temperature threshold is set in the range of 30°C to 40°C.

[0034] As an optional implementation, the preset continuous water use interval time threshold is set in the range of 5 min to 10 min, and the preset large water use time threshold is set in the range of 20 min to 40 min.

[0035] In a second aspect, an electric water heater is provided, comprising an inner tank temperature sensor disposed in the inner tank, a heating element, an inlet water flow sensor disposed at the inlet pipe, an outlet water temperature sensor disposed at the outlet pipe, and a main control device; wherein, the main control device obtains a first initial outlet water temperature and a first final water temperature corresponding to a period of heavy water usage through the outlet water temperature sensor, the main control device obtains real-time inlet water flow through the inlet water flow sensor, the main control device obtains the water temperature in the middle of the inner tank through the inner tank temperature sensor, the main control device adjusts a preset target heating temperature, and controls the heating element to heat the water stored in the inner tank according to the preset target heating temperature, so as to realize the method described in any one of the first aspects.

[0036] Thirdly, a computer device is provided, including a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program executable on the processor, and the processor executes the computer program to perform the steps of the method described in the first aspect.

[0037] Fourthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the method described in the first aspect.

[0038] This application provides a control method and an electric water heater. The technical solution provided by the embodiments of this application brings at least the following beneficial effects: It obtains a first initial outlet water temperature and a first final water temperature corresponding to a period of heavy water usage in the electric water heater. If the first final water temperature is less than or equal to a preset hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the first initial outlet water temperature is greater than or equal to a preset target heating temperature, then the preset target heating temperature is increased according to a preset first temperature adjustment rule. If the first final water temperature is greater than the hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the real-time detected water temperature in the middle of the inner tank is greater than or equal to a preset inner tank water temperature threshold, then the preset target heating temperature is decreased according to a preset second temperature adjustment rule. If the first final water temperature is greater than the hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the real-time detected water temperature in the middle of the inner tank is less than the preset inner tank water temperature threshold, then the preset target heating temperature is maintained. The water in the inner tank of the electric water heater is heated according to the target heating temperature. This application finely adjusts the target heating temperature of the electric water heater according to actual water usage to maximize efficiency. By acquiring the start and end temperatures of peak water usage periods, the electric water heater can intelligently determine the user's water usage pattern. When the first end water temperature is less than or equal to a preset hot water volume threshold, it indicates insufficient hot water supply. The system will then adjust the target heating temperature appropriately according to a preset first temperature adjustment rule to ensure the user receives hotter water. Conversely, when a gradual decrease in real-time water usage is detected, the system will lower the target heating temperature according to a second temperature adjustment rule to prevent energy waste. Through this intelligent control, the electric water heater can flexibly adapt to different water usage scenarios, providing the maximum amount of hot water needed and reducing energy consumption during periods of low demand. This personalized adjustment can bring significant energy-saving effects, allowing users to enjoy hot water while reducing resource waste in actual use.

[0039] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0040] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electric water heater provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 2A flowchart illustrating a control method for an electric water heater provided in this application embodiment;

[0043] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating another control method for an electric water heater provided in this application embodiment;

[0044] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating another control method for an electric water heater provided in this application embodiment;

[0045] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating another control method for an electric water heater provided in this application embodiment;

[0046] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating another control method for an electric water heater provided in this application embodiment;

[0047] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for an electric water heater provided in this application embodiment;

[0048] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a computer device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0049] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0050] The control method for electric water heaters provided in this application can be applied to electric water heaters. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the electric water heater includes an outlet water temperature sensor 110 installed at the outlet pipe, an inner tank temperature sensor 120 installed in the inner tank, a heating element 130, an inlet water flow sensor 140 installed at the inlet pipe, and a main control device 150. The main control device 150 collects the real-time inlet water flow rate of the inlet pipe through the inlet water flow sensor 140, and determines the water usage status of the electric water heater based on the real-time inlet water flow rate, preset hot water flow rate thresholds, and hot water shut-off flow rate thresholds. The main control device 150 obtains the first initial outlet water temperature and the first final water usage temperature corresponding to a period of heavy water usage through the outlet water temperature sensor 110. The main control device 150 obtains the water temperature in the middle of the inner tank through the inner tank temperature sensor 120. The main control device 150 adjusts the preset target heating temperature according to the first initial outlet water temperature, the first final water usage temperature, the water temperature in the middle of the inner tank, a preset hot water volume determination temperature threshold, a preset first temperature adjustment rule, a preset inner tank water temperature threshold, and a preset second temperature adjustment rule, and controls the heating element 130 to heat the water stored in the inner tank according to the preset target heating temperature.

[0051] The following will describe in detail a control method for an electric water heater provided in this application, with reference to specific embodiments. Figure 2 A flowchart of a control method for an electric water heater provided in an embodiment of this application is shown below. Figure 2 As shown, the specific steps are as follows:

[0052] Step 201: Obtain the first initial outlet water temperature and the first final water temperature corresponding to the period of high water usage of the electric water heater.

[0053] In practice, the peak water usage periods for electric water heaters typically occur during peak household water usage times, when users concentrate on using hot water for showering, washing their faces, washing dishes, and doing laundry, leading to high hot water demand. To ensure a sufficient supply of hot water during these peak usage periods, the main control unit can acquire the initial outlet water temperature and the initial end water temperature corresponding to these peak usage periods to monitor the amount of hot water remaining in the water heater after the user has finished using it.

[0054] Optionally, there are various ways to determine the peak water usage periods for electric water heaters. Specific time periods can be set as peak usage periods, such as 6-8 AM or 8-9 PM. Alternatively, periods where water usage exceeds a preset threshold can be defined as peak usage periods, and so on. Figure 3 A flowchart of another control method for an electric water heater provided in an embodiment of this application is shown below. Figure 3 As shown, a method for determining the period of high water usage of an electric water heater is specifically provided, along with the specific steps in step 201 for obtaining the first initial outlet water temperature and the first final water usage temperature corresponding to the period of high water usage of the electric water heater. The steps are as follows:

[0055] Step 301: Obtain the water usage duration, the second starting water temperature, the second ending water temperature, and the interval between adjacent water usage periods for each water usage period.

[0056] In practice, the main control device of the electric water heater obtains the water usage duration, the second starting outlet water temperature, the second ending water temperature, and the interval between adjacent water usage periods in each water usage period.

[0057] As an optional implementation method, Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating another control method for an electric water heater provided in this application embodiment is shown below. Figure 4 As shown, the specific steps in step 301 for obtaining the water usage duration, the second initial outlet water temperature, the second final water usage temperature, and the interval between adjacent water usage periods are as follows:

[0058] Step 401: Obtain the real-time water flow rate of the inlet pipe of the electric water heater.

[0059] In practice, the main control device can obtain the real-time water flow rate through the water flow sensor installed at the water inlet pipe. The real-time water flow rate can be used as the basis for determining whether the user should turn on the tap.

[0060] Step 402: Determine the water usage status of the electric water heater based on the real-time inlet water flow rate, the preset hot water flow rate threshold, and the hot water shut-off flow rate threshold.

[0061] In practice, the main control device can determine whether the user has turned on the tap based on the real-time water inflow rate and the preset water flow rate threshold. It can also determine whether the user has turned off the tap based on the real-time water inflow rate and the preset water flow rate threshold.

[0062] As an optional implementation method, Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating another control method for an electric water heater provided in this application embodiment is shown below. Figure 5 As shown, the specific steps in step 402 to determine the water usage status of the electric water heater based on the real-time inlet water flow rate, the preset hot water flow rate threshold, and the hot water shut-off flow rate threshold are as follows:

[0063] Step 501: If the real-time inlet water flow rate is greater than or equal to the boiling water flow rate threshold, then the water usage status of the electric water heater is boiling water status.

[0064] In practice, when a user turns on the tap, tap water enters the electric water heater through the inlet pipe, increasing the real-time water flow rate. Therefore, if the real-time water flow rate is greater than or equal to the boiling water flow rate threshold, the main control device of the electric water heater determines that the water usage status of the electric water heater is boiling water.

[0065] Preferably, the boiling water flow rate threshold is 1L / min.

[0066] Step 502: If the real-time inlet water flow rate is less than the water shut-off flow rate threshold, the water usage status of the electric water heater is set to water shut-off.

[0067] In practice, when the user turns off the tap, tap water stops entering the electric water heater from the inlet pipe, and the real-time water flow rate decreases. Therefore, if the real-time water flow rate is less than the water-off flow rate threshold, the main control device of the electric water heater determines that the water usage status of the electric water heater is the water-off state.

[0068] Preferably, the water shut-off flow rate threshold is 0.5 L / min.

[0069] Step 403: When the water usage status of the electric water heater is switched from the off state to the on state, the second initial water outlet temperature and the initial water outlet time of the electric water heater are obtained after a preset temperature stabilization time.

[0070] In practice, when the water usage status of the electric water heater switches from off to on, it indicates that the user has turned on the tap. Since the water has just been turned on, there is a time for heat exchange between the cold water entering the water heater's inner tank and the remaining hot water. Therefore, after a preset temperature stabilization period, the main control device can obtain the stabilized outlet water temperature through the outlet water temperature sensor located at the outlet pipe, and use this as the second initial outlet water temperature. When the main control device obtains the second initial outlet water temperature, it records the initial outlet water time.

[0071] Step 404: When the electric water heater switches from hot water to off water, the second end water temperature and end water usage time of the outlet pipe are obtained.

[0072] In practice, when the water usage status of the electric water heater switches from "on" to "off," it indicates that the user has turned off the tap and ended water usage. The main control device can obtain the outlet water temperature at the time of water shutdown through the outlet water temperature sensor and use it as the second end-of-use temperature. When the main control device obtains the second end-of-use temperature, it records the time of water usage termination.

[0073] Step 405: Determine the time period between the start time of water discharge and the end time of water use as the water use period, and determine the time difference between the end time of water use and the start time of water discharge as the water use duration corresponding to the water use period.

[0074] In practice, the main control device can determine the water usage duration of each water usage period based on the start and end times of water usage. For example, the main control device can determine the time period between the start and end times of water usage as the water usage period and the time difference between the end and start times of water usage as the corresponding water usage duration.

[0075] Step 406: The time difference between the start time of the next water usage period and the end time of the previous water usage period is determined as the interval between adjacent water usage periods.

[0076] In practice, the main control device can determine the interval between adjacent water usage periods based on the start and end times of water usage. This allows the device to determine the time elapsed after the user turns off the water in the previous water usage period and then turns it back on, thus determining whether the user has temporarily turned off the water.

[0077] Step 302: Determine the total water usage time based on the interval between adjacent water usage periods, the water usage duration of each water usage period, and the preset continuous water usage interval threshold.

[0078] In practice, the main control device can determine the total water usage time based on the interval between adjacent water usage periods, the water usage duration of each water usage period, and the preset threshold for continuous water usage interval.

[0079] As an optional implementation method, Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating another control method for an electric water heater provided in this application embodiment is shown below. Figure 6 As shown, the specific steps in step 302 to determine the total water usage time based on the interval between adjacent water usage periods, the water usage duration of each water usage period, and the preset continuous water usage interval threshold are as follows:

[0080] Step 601: If the interval between adjacent water use periods is less than or equal to the threshold for continuous water use interval, then the sum of the water use durations of adjacent water use periods is determined as the total water use duration.

[0081] In practice, if the interval between adjacent water usage periods is less than or equal to the continuous water usage interval threshold, it indicates that the user turned the water off and then turned it back on within the continuous water usage interval threshold, meaning the user temporarily turned off the water during water usage. Therefore, the main control device treats two or more adjacent water usage periods with an interval less than or equal to the continuous water usage interval threshold as a single continuous water usage period, and determines the sum of the water usage durations of the adjacent water usage periods as the total water usage duration.

[0082] Step 602: If the interval between adjacent water use periods is longer than the preset threshold for continuous water use interval, and the water use duration of the preceding water use period in the adjacent water use periods is longer than the preset threshold for large water use duration, then the water use duration of the preceding water use period in the adjacent water use periods is determined as the total water use duration.

[0083] In practice, if the interval between adjacent water usage periods exceeds the threshold for continuous water usage interval, it indicates that the user turned off the water but did not turn it back on within the threshold period, meaning the user has ended water usage. Therefore, two or more adjacent water usage periods cannot be considered as a continuous water usage period. If the water usage duration of the preceding water usage period exceeds a preset threshold for a large amount of water usage time, the main control device will determine the water usage duration of the preceding water usage period as the total water usage time.

[0084] Optionally, the preset continuous water usage interval threshold can be set in the range of 5 min to 10 min.

[0085] Step 303: If the total water usage time is greater than or equal to the preset threshold for large water usage time, then the water usage period corresponding to the total water usage time is determined as the large water usage period.

[0086] In practice, users' daily lives often involve periods of high water usage characterized by long durations. Therefore, technicians can set a threshold for the duration of high water usage and store it in the main control device. The main control device then determines whether a period qualifies as a high-water-use period based on the total duration of water usage during a given process. If the total water usage duration is greater than or equal to the preset threshold, the water usage period corresponding to that total duration is identified as a high-water-use period.

[0087] Optionally, the preset threshold for the duration of heavy water usage can be set from 20 minutes to 40 minutes.

[0088] Step 304: Determine the second starting water temperature corresponding to the first water usage period and the second ending water temperature corresponding to the last water usage period in the large water usage period as the first starting water temperature and the first ending water temperature corresponding to the large water usage period, respectively.

[0089] In practice, a period of high water usage includes at least one water usage period. The main control device can determine the second starting water temperature corresponding to the first water usage period and the second ending water temperature corresponding to the last water usage period as the first starting water temperature and the first ending water temperature corresponding to the period of high water usage, respectively.

[0090] Step 202: If the first end water temperature is less than or equal to the preset hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the first start water temperature is greater than or equal to the preset target heating temperature, then the preset target heating temperature is increased according to the preset first temperature adjustment rule.

[0091] In practice, if the first end water temperature is less than or equal to the preset hot water volume judgment temperature threshold, it means that after a period of heavy water use, the remaining hot water volume of the electric water heater is insufficient and cannot provide hot water for the next water use. At this time, if the first initial outlet water temperature is greater than or equal to the preset target heating temperature, the preset target heating temperature is increased according to the preset first temperature adjustment rule.

[0092] As an optional implementation, the specific method for increasing the preset target heating temperature in step 202 according to the preset first temperature adjustment rule is to increase the target heating temperature by a first preset number of unit temperatures.

[0093] Preferably, the unit temperature is 1℃, and the first preset number is 5.

[0094] Step 203: If the first end water temperature is greater than the hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the real-time detected water temperature in the middle of the inner tank is greater than or equal to the preset inner tank water temperature threshold, then the preset target heating temperature is lowered according to the preset second temperature adjustment rule.

[0095] In practice, if the first end water temperature is greater than the preset hot water volume judgment temperature threshold, and the real-time detected water temperature in the middle of the inner tank is greater than or equal to the preset inner tank water temperature threshold, it indicates that after a period of heavy water use, the amount of hot water in the inner tank of the electric water heater is still at a high level. This further indicates that when heating according to the current target heating temperature, there is a surplus of hot water after each use. In order to avoid waste of resources, the main control device can lower the preset target heating temperature according to the preset second temperature adjustment rule.

[0096] As an optional implementation, the method for lowering the preset target heating temperature in step 203 according to the preset second temperature adjustment rule is to reduce the target heating temperature by a second preset number of unit temperatures.

[0097] Preferably, the unit temperature is 1℃, and the second preset number is 3.

[0098] Step 204: If the first end water temperature is greater than the hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the real-time detected water temperature in the middle of the inner tank is less than the preset inner tank water temperature threshold, then maintain the preset target heating temperature.

[0099] In practice, if the initial water temperature is greater than the hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the real-time detected water temperature in the middle of the inner tank is less than the preset inner tank water temperature threshold, it indicates that after a period of heavy water use, there is still some hot water in the inner tank that can provide hot water for the user's next water use. Therefore, the main control device maintains the preset target heating temperature.

[0100] Optionally, the preset hot water volume determination temperature threshold is set within a range of 40℃ to 45℃, the preset target heating temperature is 65℃, and the preset inner tank water temperature threshold is set within a range of 30℃ to 40℃.

[0101] As an optional implementation method, Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for an electric water heater provided in this application embodiment is shown below. Figure 7 As shown, the specific steps are as follows:

[0102] Step 701: After powering on, if the electric water heater detects the user-set target heating temperature T... set Then, according to the target heating temperature T set Heating will proceed. If the user-defined target heating temperature T0 is not detected, heating will proceed according to the pre-stored default target heating temperature T0.

[0103] Step 702: The main control device of the electric water heater detects the real-time inlet flow rate L of the water inlet pipe of the electric water heater through the inlet flow sensor at the inlet pipe.

[0104] Step 703: When the real-time inlet water flow rate L ≥ the boiling water flow rate threshold L1, the main control device determines that the water usage status of the electric water heater is boiling water, and detects the outlet water temperature through the outlet water temperature sensor installed at the outlet pipe. After the outlet water temperature stabilizes, the main control device stores the outlet water temperature as the second starting outlet water temperature T for the first water usage period. 11 .

[0105] Step 704: When the real-time inlet water flow rate L < the water shut-off flow rate threshold L2, the main control device determines that the water usage status of the electric water heater is the water shut-off state, and detects the outlet water temperature through the outlet water temperature sensor. The main control device stores the outlet water temperature as the second end water temperature T of the first water usage period. 12 At the same time, the main control device records the water usage duration t1 corresponding to the first water usage period, at which point the total water usage duration t = t1.

[0106] Step 705, similarly, the main control device records the second initial outlet water temperature T during the second water usage period. 21 Second end water temperature T 22 The second water usage period, t2, is recorded. Similarly, the second initial outlet water temperature T for the third water usage period is recorded. 31 Second end water temperature T 32 And the water usage duration t3 corresponding to the second water usage period... record the second initial outlet water temperature T of the nth water usage period. n1 Second end water temperature T n2 And the water usage duration t corresponding to the second water usage period. n .

[0107] Step 706: If the interval Δt between adjacent water usage periods is less than or equal to the preset continuous water usage interval threshold Δt1, the main control device determines the adjacent water usage periods as continuous water usage periods, adds the water usage durations of the two adjacent water usage periods, and determines the total water usage duration t = t n +t n+1 The same logic applies to the water usage duration for multiple water usage periods (from water usage period m to water usage period n), where the total water usage duration t = t m +t m+1 +…+t n The main control device stores the initial outlet water temperature T during the continuous water usage period. m1 and the first end water temperature T n2 .

[0108] Step 707: When the total water usage time t ≥ the preset threshold for large water usage time Δt2, the main control device determines the continuous water usage period as the large water usage period.

[0109] Step 708: If the interval Δt between adjacent water usage periods is greater than the preset continuous water usage interval threshold Δt1, and the water usage duration t of the previous water usage period is... n If the data for the previous water usage period is less than the preset threshold Δt2, the data for the previous water usage period will be cleared.

[0110] Step 709: If the interval Δt between adjacent water usage periods is greater than the preset continuous water usage interval threshold Δt1, and the water usage duration t of the previous water usage period is... n If the water usage time is greater than or equal to the preset threshold Δt2 for a large water usage period, the main control device will determine the previous water usage period as the large water usage period.

[0111] Step 710, if the first end water temperature T n2 ≤ Hot water volume determination temperature threshold T p The main control device determines that the electric water heater has insufficient hot water supply. If the initial outlet water temperature T m1 When the target heating temperature is ≥, the target heating temperature is increased by the first preset number of temperature units.

[0112] Step 711, if the first end water temperature T n2 > Hot water volume determination temperature threshold T p The main control device determined that there was still hot water remaining.

[0113] Step 712, if the real-time detected water temperature value T in the middle of the inner tank in ≥Inner tank water temperature threshold T q The main control device determines that the total hot water volume is sufficient and lowers the target heating temperature by a factor of two preset units of temperature.

[0114] Step 711, if the real-time detected water temperature value T in the middle of the inner tank in <Inner tank water temperature threshold T> q The main control unit determines that the total hot water volume of the water heater is sufficient, and the target heating temperature of the water heater remains unchanged.

[0115] This application provides a control method for an electric water heater, which acquires a first starting outlet water temperature and a first ending water temperature corresponding to a period of high water usage. If the first ending water temperature is less than or equal to a preset hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the first starting outlet water temperature is greater than or equal to a preset target heating temperature, the preset target heating temperature is increased according to a preset first temperature adjustment rule. If the first ending water temperature is greater than the hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the real-time detected water temperature in the middle of the inner tank is greater than or equal to a preset inner tank water temperature threshold, the preset target heating temperature is decreased according to a preset second temperature adjustment rule. If the first ending water temperature is greater than the hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the real-time detected water temperature in the middle of the inner tank is less than the preset inner tank water temperature threshold, the preset target heating temperature is maintained. The water in the inner tank of the electric water heater is heated according to the target heating temperature. This application finely adjusts the target heating temperature of the electric water heater according to the actual water usage situation to maximize efficiency. By acquiring the starting and ending water temperatures of periods of high water usage, the electric water heater can intelligently determine the user's water usage pattern. When the initial water temperature is less than or equal to the preset hot water volume threshold, it indicates that the water heater is not producing enough hot water. The system will then adjust the target heating temperature appropriately according to the preset first temperature regulation rule to ensure the user receives hotter water. Conversely, when the system detects a gradual decrease in real-time water usage, it will adjust the target heating temperature according to the second temperature regulation rule to prevent energy waste. Through this intelligent control, the water heater can flexibly adapt to different water usage scenarios, providing the maximum amount of hot water needed and reducing energy consumption during periods of low demand. This personalized adjustment can bring significant energy-saving effects, allowing users to enjoy hot water while reducing resource waste in actual use.

[0116] It should be understood that, although Figures 2 to 7 The steps in the flowchart are shown sequentially as indicated by the arrows, but these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless otherwise specified herein, there is no strict order in which these steps are executed, and they can be performed in other orders. Figures 2 to 7 At least some of the steps in the process may include multiple steps or multiple stages. These steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but may be executed at different times. The execution order of these steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but may be executed in turn or alternately with other steps or at least some of the steps or stages in other steps.

[0117] It is understood that the same / similar parts between the various embodiments of the methods described above in this specification can be referred to each other. Each embodiment focuses on the differences from other embodiments, and relevant parts can be referred to the description of other method embodiments.

[0118] This application also provides an electric water heater, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the electric water heater includes an inner tank temperature sensor, a heating element, an inlet water flow sensor, an outlet water temperature sensor, and a main control device, all disposed in the inner tank. The main control device acquires a first initial outlet water temperature and a first final water temperature corresponding to a period of heavy water usage via the inlet water temperature sensor. It also acquires the real-time inlet water flow rate via the inlet water flow sensor and the water temperature in the middle of the inner tank via the inner tank temperature sensor. The main control device adjusts a preset target heating temperature and controls the heating element to heat the water in the inner tank according to the preset target heating temperature, thereby achieving the method described in any of the first aspects.

[0119] For specific limitations regarding electric water heaters, please refer to the limitations on the control methods of electric water heaters mentioned above, which will not be repeated here. The various modules in the aforementioned electric water heater can be implemented entirely or partially through software, hardware, or a combination thereof. These modules can be embedded in the processor of a computer device in hardware form or independent of it, or stored in the memory of a computer device in software form, so that the processor can call and execute the corresponding operations of each module.

[0120] In one embodiment, a computer device is provided, such as Figure 8 As shown, it includes a memory and a processor. The memory stores a computer program that can run on the processor. When the processor executes the computer program, it implements the steps of the above-described control method for an electric water heater.

[0121] In one embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the control method for the electric water heater described above.

[0122] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above methods. Any references to memory, storage, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include non-volatile and / or volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in various forms, such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), dual data rate SDRAM (DDRSDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), synchronous link DRAM (SLDRAM), Rambus direct RAM (RDRAM), direct memory bus dynamic RAM (DRDRAM), and memory bus dynamic RAM (RDRAM), etc.

[0123] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0124] It should also be noted that the user information (including but not limited to user device information, user personal information, etc.) and data (including but not limited to data used for display, data used for analysis, etc.) involved in this application are all information and data authorized by the user or fully authorized by all parties.

[0125] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a related manner. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to mutually. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments. In particular, the system embodiments are basically similar to the method embodiments, so the description is relatively simple; relevant parts can be referred to the descriptions of the method embodiments.

[0126] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0127] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A control method for an electric water heater, characterized in that, The method includes: Obtain the first initial outlet water temperature and the first final water temperature corresponding to the period of high water usage of the electric water heater; If the first end water temperature is less than or equal to the preset hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the first start water temperature is greater than or equal to the preset target heating temperature, then the preset target heating temperature is increased according to the preset first temperature adjustment rule. If the first end water temperature is greater than the hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the real-time detected water temperature in the middle of the inner tank is greater than or equal to the preset inner tank water temperature threshold, then the preset target heating temperature is lowered according to the preset second temperature adjustment rule. If the first end water temperature is greater than the hot water volume determination temperature threshold, and the real-time detected water temperature in the middle of the inner tank is less than the preset inner tank water temperature threshold, then the preset target heating temperature is maintained. The acquisition of the first initial outlet water temperature and the first final water temperature corresponding to the period of high water usage of the electric water heater includes: The water usage duration, second starting water temperature, second ending water temperature, and interval duration between adjacent water usage periods are obtained for each water usage period. The total water usage time is determined based on the interval between adjacent water usage periods, the water usage duration of each water usage period, and a preset threshold for continuous water usage interval. If the total water usage duration is greater than or equal to a preset threshold for a large amount of water usage duration, then the water usage period corresponding to the total water usage duration is determined as the large amount of water usage period. The second starting water temperature corresponding to the first water usage period and the second ending water temperature corresponding to the last water usage period in the large water usage period are respectively determined as the first starting water temperature and the first ending water temperature corresponding to the large water usage period. The acquisition of the water usage duration, the second initial water outlet temperature, the second final water usage temperature, and the interval between adjacent water usage periods for each water usage period includes: Obtain the real-time water flow rate of the inlet pipe of the electric water heater; The water usage status of the electric water heater is determined based on the real-time inlet water flow rate, the preset hot water flow rate threshold, and the hot water shut-off flow rate threshold. When the water usage status of the electric water heater is detected to switch from the off state to the on state, the second initial water outlet temperature and the initial water outlet time of the electric water heater are obtained after a preset temperature stabilization time. When the electric water heater is detected to switch from the hot water state to the off water state, the second end water temperature and the end water time of the water outlet pipe are obtained. The time period between the start time of water discharge and the end time of water use is defined as the water use period, and the time difference between the end time of water use and the start time of water discharge is defined as the water use duration corresponding to the water use period. The time difference between the start time of the next water usage period and the end time of the previous water usage period is determined as the interval between the adjacent water usage periods. The step of determining the water usage status of the electric water heater based on the real-time inlet water flow rate, the preset hot water flow rate threshold, and the hot water flow rate threshold includes: If the real-time inlet water flow rate is greater than or equal to the boiling water flow rate threshold, then the water usage status of the electric water heater is boiling water status; If the real-time inflow rate is less than the water shut-off flow rate threshold, then the water usage status of the electric water heater is the water shut-off status; The step of determining the total water usage time based on the interval between adjacent water usage periods, the water usage duration of each water usage period, and a preset threshold for continuous water usage interval includes: If the interval between adjacent water usage periods is less than or equal to the threshold for consecutive water usage intervals, then the sum of the water usage durations of the adjacent water usage periods is determined as the total water usage duration. If the interval between adjacent water usage periods is longer than the preset continuous water usage interval length threshold, and the water usage duration of the preceding water usage period in the adjacent water usage periods is longer than the preset large water usage duration threshold, then the water usage duration of the preceding water usage period in the adjacent water usage periods is determined as the total water usage duration.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of increasing the preset target heating temperature according to the preset first temperature adjustment rule includes: Increase the target heating temperature by a first preset number of unit temperatures.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of lowering the preset target heating temperature according to the preset second temperature adjustment rule includes: The target heating temperature is reduced by a second preset number of unit temperatures.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The preset hot water volume determination temperature threshold is set within a range of 40°C to 45°C, the preset target heating temperature is 65°C, and the preset inner tank water temperature threshold is set within a range of 30°C to 40°C.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The preset continuous water usage interval threshold is set in the range of 5 min to 10 min, and the preset large water usage duration threshold is set in the range of 20 min to 40 min.

6. An electric water heater, characterized in that, The electric water heater includes an inner tank temperature sensor, a heating element, an inlet flow sensor, an outlet temperature sensor, and a main control device. The main control device acquires a first initial outlet temperature and a first final outlet temperature corresponding to a period of heavy water usage via the outlet temperature sensor. It also acquires real-time inlet flow via the inlet flow sensor and the water temperature in the middle of the inner tank via the inner tank temperature sensor. The main control device adjusts a preset target heating temperature and controls the heating element to heat the water in the inner tank according to the preset target heating temperature, thereby achieving the method described in any one of claims 1-5.

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