Water supply apparatus, method of cleaning the same, and computer-readable storage medium
By calculating the remaining service life of the filter cartridges in the water supply equipment and rinsing the reverse osmosis filter cartridges using the cleaning filter cartridges, the problem of wasteful overall replacement of reverse osmosis filter cartridges before their service value is exhausted is solved, thus saving resources and extending the service life of the filter cartridges.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- FOSHAN SHUNDE MIDEA WATER DISPENSER MFG
- Filing Date
- 2024-09-30
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-08
AI Technical Summary
In existing water supply equipment, reverse osmosis filter cartridges are replaced before their service life is exhausted, resulting in a waste of resources.
By calculating the remaining service life of the composite filter element and the reverse osmosis filter element, a replacement and cleaning reminder message is issued, and the reverse osmosis filter element is flushed using the cleaning filter element to extend its service life and save resources.
It extends the service life of reverse osmosis filter cartridges, solves the problems of clogging and slow water production caused by prolonged use, and saves resources and operating costs.
Smart Images

Figure CN119240814B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of water purification equipment technology, and in particular to a water supply device and its cleaning method, as well as a computer-readable storage medium. Background Technology
[0002] With the improvement of living standards, water supply equipment has gradually become a standard feature of quality living. Among them, reverse osmosis water purifiers are popular because they can effectively remove various pollutants from tap water. In existing equipment, water supply systems are often limited by the lifespan of the pre-filter. After the pre-filter reaches the end of its lifespan, the entire filtration module of the water supply system needs to be replaced. However, reverse osmosis filters still have value, and replacing the entire filtration module results in a waste of resources. Summary of the Invention
[0003] The purpose of this invention is to at least solve the problem of resource waste caused by replacing the entire filtration module when the reverse osmosis filter cartridge is still usable. This purpose is achieved through the following means:
[0004] A first aspect of the present invention provides a cleaning method for a water supply device, the water supply device including a composite filter element, a cleaning filter element, and a reverse osmosis filter element. The cleaning method includes: calculating the remaining service life of the composite filter element and the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element; issuing a filter element replacement and cleaning prompt message based on the remaining service life of the composite filter element being less than a first preset service life value and the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element being greater than a second preset service life value; replacing the composite filter element with the cleaning filter element according to the filter element replacement and cleaning prompt message; and rinsing the reverse osmosis filter element; wherein the first preset service life value is greater than or equal to zero, and the second preset service life value is greater than or equal to zero.
[0005] According to the cleaning method of the water supply equipment of the present invention, when the service life of the composite filter element in the water supply equipment reaches the preset service life (that is, the remaining service life of the composite filter element is less than the first preset service life value), and the service life of the reverse osmosis filter element has not reached the preset service life (that is, the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element is greater than the second preset service life value), the composite filter element is replaced by a cleaning filter element, and the reverse osmosis filter element is rinsed with the cleaning filter element to remove the raw water impurities attached to the reverse osmosis filter element, extend the service life of the reverse osmosis filter element, and solve the problems of raw water impurities clogging the reverse osmosis filter element and slow water production speed due to long-term use. After the reverse osmosis filter element is cleaned, a new composite filter element is replaced with a new one, and the cleaned reverse osmosis filter element is used again, making full use of the remaining use value of the reverse osmosis filter element, saving resources, and reducing the operating cost of the water supply equipment.
[0006] In addition, the cleaning method for the water supply equipment according to the present invention may also have the following additional technical features:
[0007] In some embodiments of the present invention, in the step of calculating the remaining service life of the composite filter element, it includes: obtaining the total service life T1 of the composite filter element; accumulating the water production duration t1 of the water supply device; calculating the remaining service life of the composite filter element according to T1 minus t1.
[0008] In some embodiments of the present invention, in the step of calculating the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element, it includes: calculating the theoretical total filtration water volume L1 of the reverse osmosis filter element during its service life; calculating the real-time cumulative water production volume p of the reverse osmosis filter element; when the real-time cumulative water production volume p is greater than or equal to 1 liter, adding 1 liter to the actual cumulative water production volume P of the reverse osmosis filter element; calculating the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element according to the actual cumulative water production volume P and the theoretical total filtration water volume L1.
[0009] In some embodiments of the present invention, in the step of calculating the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element according to the actual cumulative water production volume P and the theoretical total filtration water volume L1, it includes: calculating the filtration water volume L2 of the reverse osmosis filter element for every 1% of its service life according to the theoretical total filtration water volume L1 / 100; when a*L2 < P < b*L2, adding 1% to the percentage of the used service life F of the reverse osmosis filter element; calculating the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element according to 100% - F; where a and b are constants, and 0.8 < a ≤ 1, 1 < b < 1.2.
[0010] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cleaning method further includes: when adding 1% to the percentage of the used service life F of the reverse osmosis filter element, clearing the actual cumulative water production volume P, and returning to execute the step of calculating the real-time cumulative water production volume p of the reverse osmosis filter element.
[0011] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cleaning method further includes: calculating the maximum available duration H of the service life of the reverse osmosis filter element according to (L1 / 10)*24; calculating the usage time t2 of the reverse osmosis filter element for every 1% of its service life according to the maximum available duration H / 100; calculating the real-time cumulative power-on time t3 of the reverse osmosis filter element; when the real-time cumulative water production volume p is less than 1 liter and the real-time cumulative power-on time t3 is greater than or equal to 1 hour, adding 1 hour to the actual cumulative power-on time H2 of the reverse osmosis filter element; when a*t2 < H2 < b*t2, adding 1% to the percentage of the used service life F of the reverse osmosis filter element; calculating the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element according to 100% - F; where a and b are constants, and 0.8 < a ≤ 1, 1 < b < 1.2.
[0012] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cleaning method further includes: accumulating 1% based on the percentage of the service life F of the reverse osmosis filter element, resetting the actual cumulative energization time H2 to zero, and returning to the step of calculating the real-time cumulative energization time t3 of the reverse osmosis filter element.
[0013] In some embodiments of the present invention, the water supply equipment further includes a main water production line, a wastewater branch line, and a flushing branch line. The main water production line includes an inlet section, a water branch line, and an outlet section that are connected in sequence. The composite filter element includes a pre-filter element and a post-filter element. The pre-filter element, the reverse osmosis filter element, and the post-filter element are sequentially arranged in the water branch line. The inlet of the wastewater branch line is connected to the wastewater outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element. The inlet of the flushing branch line is connected to the pure water outlet of the post-filter element through the water branch line. The step of flushing the reverse osmosis filter element includes: controlling the inlet section, the water branch line, and the wastewater branch line to be connected in sequence; performing a first round of flushing on the reverse osmosis filter element for a first time period; and issuing a first second water tank water change signal.
[0014] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cleaning method further includes: replacing the raw water in the second water tank according to the first second water tank replacement signal; performing a second round of rinsing on the reverse osmosis filter element for a second time period; the second time period being longer than the first time period.
[0015] In some embodiments of the present invention, after the second round of rinsing, the cleaning method further includes: issuing a second second water tank replacement signal; replacing the raw water in the second water tank according to the second second water tank replacement signal; controlling the inlet section, the water path branch and the rinsing branch to be connected in sequence, controlling the wastewater branch and the outlet section to be disconnected, and performing a third round of rinsing on the reverse osmosis filter element for a third time period.
[0016] In some embodiments of the present invention, after the third flushing step, the cleaning method further includes: replacing the cleaning filter element with a new composite filter element; controlling the inlet section, the water branch, the flushing branch and the wastewater branch to be connected in sequence, controlling the outlet section to be disconnected, and flushing the composite filter element and the reverse osmosis filter element for a fourth time period.
[0017] A second aspect of the present invention also provides a water supply device, the water supply device comprising a main water production line, a wastewater branch line, a flushing branch line, a cleaning filter element, a composite filter element, a reverse osmosis filter element, and a control device. The main water production line comprises an inlet section, a water branch line, and an outlet section connected in sequence. The composite filter element comprises a pre-filter element and a post-filter element. The pre-filter element, the reverse osmosis filter element, and the post-filter element are sequentially disposed in the water branch line. The cleaning filter element can replace the composite filter element and is disposed in the water branch line. The inlet of the wastewater branch line is connected to the wastewater outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element. The inlet of the flushing branch line is connected to the pure water outlet of the post-filter element through the water branch line. The control device comprises a memory and at least one processor. The memory stores a computer program that can run on the processor. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the cleaning method of the water supply device as described in any one of the first aspects of the technical solution.
[0018] A third aspect of the present invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the cleaning method for a water supply device as described in any one of the first aspects. Attached Figure Description
[0019] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. Wherein:
[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a water supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the composite filter element, reverse osmosis filter element, and water circuit adapter plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a waterway adapter plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a cleaning filter element according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0024] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating the water circuit connections of various components in a water supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating the electrical connection between a control device according to an embodiment of the present invention and a self-priming pump, a first solenoid valve, a second solenoid valve, and a wastewater valve.
[0026] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the cleaning method for a water supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for calculating the remaining service life of a composite filter element according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0028] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for calculating the remaining service life of a reverse osmosis filter element according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0029] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for calculating the remaining service life of a reverse osmosis filter element based on the actual cumulative water production P and the theoretical total filtration water volume L1, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0030] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for calculating the remaining service life of a reverse osmosis filter element according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0031] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for calculating the remaining service life of a reverse osmosis filter element according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0032] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for flushing a reverse osmosis filter element according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0033] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for rinsing a reverse osmosis filter element according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] The labels in the attached diagram are as follows:
[0035] 1. Water supply equipment;
[0036] 31. Composite filter element; 32. Reverse osmosis filter element; 301. Cleaning filter element;
[0037] 38. Water circuit adapter plate; 381. First plug group; 3811. First plug; 3812. Second plug; 3813. Third plug; 3814. Fourth plug; 382. Second plug group; 3821. Fifth plug; 3822. Sixth plug; 3823. Seventh plug; 383. First water inlet branch; 384. First water outlet branch; 385. Second water inlet branch; 386. Second water outlet branch; 387. Wastewater passage;
[0038] 34. First check valve; 35. Second check valve; 36. First solenoid valve; 37. Second solenoid valve; 391. First TDS probe; 392. Second TDS probe; 310. Self-priming pump;
[0039] 20. First water tank; 12. Second water tank;
[0040] 81. Main water supply line; 811. Inlet section; 812. Outlet section;
[0041] 82. Wastewater branch line; 821. Wastewater valve;
[0042] 83. Flush the branch lines;
[0043] 200. Control device; 2001. Processor; 2002. Memory. Detailed Implementation
[0044] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the invention can be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to enable a more thorough understanding of the invention and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.
[0045] It should be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “described” as used herein may also include the plural forms. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and “having” are inclusive and therefore indicate the presence of the stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not construed as requiring them to be performed in a particular order described or illustrated unless the order of performance is explicitly indicated. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be used.
[0046] Although terms such as first, second, third, etc., may be used in this document to describe multiple elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or segment from another. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms used herein do not imply order or sequence. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or segment without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.
[0047] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between the components; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.
[0048] For ease of description, spatial relative terms may be used in the text to describe the relationship of one element or feature relative to another element or feature, as shown in the figure. These relative terms include, for example, "inside," "outside," "middle," "outer," "below," "below," "above," "over," etc. Such spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation, other than those depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure rotates, then an element described as "below other elements or features" or "below other elements or features" will subsequently be oriented "above other elements or features" or "above other elements or features." Therefore, the example term "below" can include both upper and lower orientations.
[0049] According to embodiments of the present invention, please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, a water supply device 1 is proposed. The water supply device 1 includes a main water production line 81, a wastewater branch line 82, a composite filter element 31, a cleaning filter element 301, and a reverse osmosis filter element 32. The main water production line 81 includes an inlet section 811, a water branch line, and an outlet section 812 connected in sequence. Along the flow direction of the raw water, the water supply device 1 also includes a first installation part and a second installation part arranged in sequence on the water branch line. One of the composite filter element 31 and the cleaning filter element 301 can be selectively installed in the first installation part, and the reverse osmosis filter element 32 is installed in the second installation part. The inlet of the wastewater branch line 82 is connected to the wastewater outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element 32. Specifically, when the composite filter element 31 is installed in the first installation part, the raw water first flows along the main water production line 81 to the composite filter element 31 in the first installation part. The raw water undergoes the first filtration by the composite filter element 31, removing some impurities and contaminants. After being filtered by the composite filter element 31, the water continues to flow to the reverse osmosis filter element 32 installed in the second installation part for a second filtration. The reverse osmosis filter element 32 can efficiently remove tiny particles, heavy metal ions, organic matter, etc. from the water. After filtration, pure water and wastewater are generated. The pure water is stored and flows back to the main water production line 81 and output to the outside to supply users with pure drinking water, while the wastewater is discharged through the wastewater branch line 82.
[0050] According to the water supply device 1 of the present invention, when the service life of the composite filter element 31 in the water supply device 1 reaches the preset service life, and the service life of the reverse osmosis filter element 32 has not reached the preset service life, the cleaning filter element 301 replaces the composite filter element 31 and is installed in the first mounting part. Thus, the cleaning filter element 301 can be used to clean the reverse osmosis filter element 32. The cleaning filter element 301 can generate a specific water flow or chemical action to remove the raw water impurities attached to the reverse osmosis filter element 32, extend the service life of the reverse osmosis filter element 32, and solve the problems of raw water impurities clogging the reverse osmosis filter element 32 and slow water production speed due to long-term use. After the reverse osmosis filter element 32 is cleaned, the new composite filter element 31 replaces the cleaning filter element 301 and is installed in the first mounting part, and the cleaned reverse osmosis filter element 32 continues to be used. This fully utilizes the remaining use value of the reverse osmosis filter element 32, saves resources, and reduces the operating cost of the water supply device 1.
[0051] It should be noted that there are several types of cleaning filter elements 301, such as physical cleaning filter elements 301 and chemical cleaning filter elements 301. Physical cleaning filter elements 301 can remove impurities through mechanical action or water flow impact, while chemical cleaning filter elements 301 can dissolve or decompose impurities by releasing specific chemical substances.
[0052] In this embodiment, the cleaning filter element 301 is a chemical cleaning filter element 301. The cleaning filter element 301 primarily dissolves or decomposes raw water impurities adhering to the reverse osmosis filter element 32 by releasing specific chemical substances. When water flows through the cleaning filter element 301, it releases chemical substances that flow with the water to the reverse osmosis filter element 32. These chemicals then react with the impurities in the reverse osmosis filter element 32, causing them to detach from the surface or pores of the reverse osmosis filter element 32. For example, for scale-like impurities formed by calcium and magnesium ions, the chemical cleaning filter element 301 may release acidic substances to neutralize the scale, converting it into soluble salts that are then flushed away by the water flow. For organic impurities, it may release oxidizing agents or other chemical substances to oxidize and decompose the organic matter into smaller molecules, making them easier to clean. This achieves the purpose of removing raw water impurities adhering to the reverse osmosis filter element 32, preventing impurities from clogging the reverse osmosis filter element 32, and extending the service life of the reverse osmosis filter element 32.
[0053] Understandably, depending on the specific impurities on the reverse osmosis filter element 32, a cleaning filter element 301 using a combination of multiple chemical substances can be selected. For example, in cases where there is both scale and organic impurities, the cleaning filter element 301 can simultaneously release acidic substances and oxidants to achieve a better cleaning effect.
[0054] In some embodiments, please combine Figure 1 , Figure 2, Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the water supply equipment 1 also includes a water circuit adapter plate 38. The water circuit branch includes multiple mutually isolated water circuit passages located inside the water circuit adapter plate 38. The first mounting part is configured as a first plug group 381 located on the water circuit adapter plate 38 and connected to the water circuit passages. The first plug group 381 includes multiple plugs protruding from the water circuit adapter plate 38 and connected to the water circuit passages in the water circuit adapter plate 38. The composite filter element 31 or the cleaning filter element 301 is provided with a socket that engages with the plug in the first plug group 381. The composite filter element 31 or the cleaning filter element 301 is detachably plugged into the first plug group 381. When it is necessary to replace the composite filter element 31 or use the cleaning filter element 301 to clean the reverse osmosis filter element 32, simply unplug the corresponding composite filter element 31 or the cleaning filter element 301 from the first plug group 381 and then insert a new filter element. The operation is very convenient.
[0055] The second installation part is configured as a second plug group 382 located on the water circuit adapter plate 38 and connected to the water circuit passage. The second plug group 382 includes a plurality of plugs protruding from the water circuit adapter plate 38 and connected to the water circuit passage in the water circuit adapter plate 38. The reverse osmosis filter element 32 is provided with a socket that engages with the plug in the second plug group 382. The reverse osmosis filter element 32 is detachably plugged into the second plug group 382, which facilitates operation when maintenance or replacement of the reverse osmosis filter element 32 is required.
[0056] Please combine Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the inlet section 811 is connected to the outlet section 812 via a water circuit adapter plate 38. Raw water enters the water circuit adapter plate 38 from the inlet section 811, is filtered by the composite filter element 31 and the reverse osmosis filter element 32, and then flows from the water circuit adapter plate 38 into the outlet section 812, ultimately outputting pure water. Alternatively, during the cleaning process of the reverse osmosis filter element 32, raw water enters the water circuit adapter plate 38 from the inlet section 811, passes through the cleaning filter element 301 and the reverse osmosis filter element 32, and then flows out from the wastewater branch 82, thus completing the cleaning operation of the reverse osmosis filter element 32.
[0057] In this embodiment, the composite filter element 31 or the cleaning filter element 301 is detachably inserted into the first plug assembly 381. This facilitates the rapid replacement and installation of the composite filter element 31 and the cleaning filter element 301 into the water supply equipment 1, simplifying the cleaning steps of the reverse osmosis filter element 32. Furthermore, the insertion and connection of the composite filter element 31 and the cleaning filter element 301 is simple and convenient, requiring no professional technicians and can be easily completed by ordinary users. This reduces the difficulty of cleaning the reverse osmosis filter element 32, allowing users to more easily maintain the water supply equipment 1, ensuring the normal operation of the equipment and the safety of the water quality.
[0058] In detail, the waterway branch includes a first inlet branch 383, a first outlet branch 384, a second inlet branch 385, a second outlet branch 386, and a wastewater passage 387, with the outlet end of the wastewater passage 387 connected to the inlet end of the wastewater branch 382. The first plug assembly 381 includes a first plug 3811 connected to the first inlet branch 383, a second plug 3812 connected to the inlet end of the first outlet branch 384, a third plug 3813 connected to the outlet end of the second inlet branch 385, and a fourth plug 3814 connected to the inlet end of the second outlet branch 386. The second plug assembly 382 includes a fifth plug 3821 connected to the outlet end of the first outlet branch 384, a sixth plug 3822 connected to the inlet end of the second inlet branch 385, and a seventh plug 3823 connected to the inlet end of the wastewater passage 387.
[0059] The cleaning filter element 301 has four insertion holes, which are detachably connected to the first plug 3811, the second plug 3812, the third plug 3813, and the fourth plug 3814, respectively. The reverse osmosis filter element 32 has three insertion holes, which are detachably connected to the fifth plug 3821, the sixth plug 3822, and the seventh plug 3823, respectively. When the cleaning filter element 301 is installed in the first installation position, the cleaning filter element 301 is connected to the inlet section 811 through the first inlet branch 383 and to the reverse osmosis filter element 32 through the first outlet branch 384. The cleaning filter element 301 is also connected to the reverse osmosis filter element 32 through the second inlet branch 385 and to the outlet section 812 through the second outlet branch 386. The reverse osmosis filter element 32 is connected to the wastewater branch 82 through the wastewater passage 387.
[0060] In this embodiment, as Figure 5As shown, during the cleaning process of the reverse osmosis filter element 32, the flow path of the raw water is as follows: inlet section 811, first inlet branch 383, first connector 3811, cleaning filter element 301, second connector 3812, first outlet branch 384, fifth connector 3821, reverse osmosis filter element 32, seventh connector 3823, wastewater passage 387, and wastewater branch 82. The wastewater after rinsing the reverse osmosis filter element 32 is discharged through wastewater branch 82. The above raw water flow sequence allows for thorough rinsing of the reverse osmosis filter element 32 using the rinsing filter element. It should be noted that during the cleaning of the reverse osmosis filter element 32, the flow of raw water also includes another flow path. This other flow path consists of, in sequence, the inlet section 811, the first inlet branch 383, the first connector 3811, the cleaning filter element 301, the second connector 3812, the first outlet branch 384, the fifth connector 3821, the reverse osmosis filter element 32, the sixth connector 3822, the second inlet branch 385, the third connector 3813, the cleaning filter element 301, the fourth connector 3814, and the second outlet branch 386. The wastewater after rinsing the reverse osmosis filter element 32 is discharged through the second outlet branch 386. This arrangement allows the reverse osmosis filter element 32 to be rinsed from two different paths, ensuring that the water flow reaches different parts of the reverse osmosis filter element 32, including hard-to-reach corners and pores. This allows for a more comprehensive removal of impurities adhering to the filter element, improving the thoroughness of the cleaning. The water flow in different paths can generate different flushing directions and intensities, creating a multi-angle impact on the impurities. For example, water flow in one path can pass through the reverse osmosis filter element 32 and then rinse the reverse osmosis filter element 32 from the wastewater outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element 32, while water flow in another path can pass through the reverse osmosis filter element 32 and rinse the reverse osmosis filter element 32 from the pure water outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element 32 (that is, the socket that is connected to the sixth plug 3822), thereby more thoroughly removing impurities attached to the reverse osmosis filter element 32 and improving the thoroughness of cleaning.
[0061] In some embodiments, please combine Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the composite filter element 31 includes a pre-filter element (not shown) and a post-filter element (not shown). The pre-filter element has insertion holes that mate with the first plug 3811 and the second plug 3812. The post-filter element has insertion holes that mate with the third plug 3813 and the fourth plug 3814. When the composite filter element 31 is installed in the first mounting position, the pre-filter element connects to the first inlet branch 383 and the first outlet branch 3812 through the first plug 3811 and the second plug 3812, respectively. Water branch 384 is connected. The post-filter is connected to the second inlet branch 385 and the second outlet branch 386 via the third plug 3813 and the fourth plug 3814 respectively. This allows the pre-filter to be connected to the inlet section 811 via the first inlet branch 383 and to the reverse osmosis filter 32 via the first outlet branch 384. The post-filter is connected to the reverse osmosis filter 32 via the second inlet branch 385 and to the outlet section 812 via the second outlet branch 386.
[0062] During the water production process of water supply equipment 1, the flow path of raw water is as follows: inlet section 811, first inlet branch 383, first connector 3811, pre-filter, second connector 3812, first outlet branch 384, fifth connector 3821, and reverse osmosis filter 32. After entering the reverse osmosis filter 32, the raw water will generate pure water and wastewater. The pure water passes through the sixth connector 3822, second inlet branch 385, third connector 3813, post-filter, fourth connector 3814, second outlet branch 386, and outlet section 812 in sequence. The wastewater is discharged from the wastewater outlet of the reverse osmosis filter 32 through the seventh connector 3823, wastewater passage 387, and wastewater branch 82. That is, the raw water first undergoes the first filtration through the pre-filter, then the second filtration through the reverse osmosis filter 32, and then the third filtration through the post-filter. Finally, the pure water generated is output through outlet section 812.
[0063] In this embodiment, please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the water supply equipment 1 also includes a flushing branch 83, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the second outlet branch 386. By setting up the flushing branch 83, when flushing the reverse osmosis filter element 32, the pure water outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element 32 can also be flushed. That is, the flushing path is: inlet section 811, first inlet branch 383, first plug 3811, cleaning filter element 301, second plug 3812, first outlet branch 384, fifth plug 3821, reverse osmosis filter element 32, sixth plug 3822, second inlet branch 385, third plug 3813, cleaning filter element 301, fourth plug 3814, second outlet branch 386, flushing branch 83. The wastewater after flushing the reverse osmosis filter element 32 is discharged through the flushing branch 83.
[0064] Furthermore, the water supply equipment 1 also includes a first one-way valve 34, a second one-way valve 35, a first water tank 20, a second water tank 12, and a self-priming pump 310. The first one-way valve 34 is located in the second inlet branch and is unidirectionally open from the reverse osmosis filter element 32 to the post-filter element. The pure water filtered by the reverse osmosis filter element 32 flows from the pure water outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element 32 into the second inlet branch 385 and then flows through the first one-way valve 34 and into the post-filter element via the third plug 3813. The second one-way valve 35 is located in the flushing branch 83 and is unidirectionally open from the second outlet branch 386 to the second water tank 12. The first water tank 20 is connected to the outlet of the outlet section 812. The second water tank 12 is connected to the inlet of the inlet section 811, the outlet of the wastewater branch 82, and the outlet of the flushing branch 83. The self-priming pump 310 is located in the inlet section 811 and is used to drive the water in the inlet section 811 to flow from the inlet of the inlet section 811 to the first inlet branch 383. During the flushing of the pure water outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element 32, the second one-way valve 35 can prevent water containing impurities after flushing the reverse osmosis filter element 32 from flowing back from the second water tank 12 to the second outlet branch 386 and the outlet section 812, thus preventing contamination of the outlet section 812 and the first water tank 20 connected to the outlet section 812.
[0065] Furthermore, the water supply equipment 1 also includes a first solenoid valve 36, a second solenoid valve 37, and a wastewater valve 821. The first solenoid valve 36 is located in the outlet section 812, the second solenoid valve 37 is located in the flushing branch 83, and the wastewater valve 821 is located in the wastewater branch 82. The first solenoid valve 36 and the second solenoid valve 37 respectively control the connection or closure of the outlet section 812 and the flushing branch 83, thereby controlling the path of water flow. The wastewater valve 821 controls the water flow rate in the wastewater branch 82 by controlling the size of its opening.
[0066] In detail, during the process of cleaning the reverse osmosis filter element 32 using the cleaning filter element 301, in the path of rinsing the reverse osmosis filter element 32 through the wastewater branch 82, the first solenoid valve 36 and the second solenoid valve 37 are closed, and the wastewater valve 821 increases its opening. The flow path of the raw water is as follows: water inlet section 811, first water inlet branch 383, first plug 3811, cleaning filter element 301, second plug 3812, first water outlet branch 384, fifth plug 3821, reverse osmosis filter element 32, seventh plug 3823, wastewater passage 387, and wastewater branch 82. The wastewater after rinsing the reverse osmosis filter element 32 is discharged through the wastewater branch 82.
[0067] In the path of rinsing the reverse osmosis filter element 32 using the rinsing branch 83, the first solenoid valve 36 is closed, the second solenoid valve 37 is open, and the wastewater valve 821 is reduced to its minimum opening. At this time, the flow path of the raw water is as follows: inlet section 811, first inlet branch 383, first plug 3811, cleaning filter element 301, second plug 3812, first outlet branch 384, fifth plug 3821, reverse osmosis filter element 32, sixth plug 3822, second inlet branch 385, third plug 3813, cleaning filter element 301, fourth plug 3814, second outlet branch 386, rinsing branch 83. The wastewater after rinsing the reverse osmosis filter element 32 is discharged through the rinsing branch 83.
[0068] Furthermore, such as Figure 5 As shown, the water supply equipment 1 also includes a first TDS probe 391 and a second TDS probe 392. The first TDS probe 391 is located in the first inlet branch 383, and the second TDS probe 392 is located in the second outlet branch 386. The first TDS probe 391 is used to detect the inlet TDS of the raw water in the first inlet branch 383, and the second TDS probe 392 is used to detect the outlet TDS of the pure water in the second outlet branch 386. Based on the inlet TDS and outlet TDS detected by the first TDS probe 391 and the second TDS probe 392, it can be determined whether the desalination rate of the pure water in the outlet water channel meets the standard. TDS is an abbreviation for Total Dissolved Solids, also known as the total amount of dissolved solids. TDS refers to the total amount of all solutes in water, including both inorganic and organic matter. TDS mainly reflects the concentration of calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and other ions in water, as well as the total amount of dissolved solids in the water.
[0069] Understandably, when the first TDS probe 391 and the second TDS probe 392 detect that the effluent desalination rate is not up to standard, the second solenoid valve 37 opens and the first solenoid valve 36 closes. The water in the second effluent branch 386 flows to the flushing branch 83 and finally flows back to the second water tank 12 or is discharged directly as wastewater through the wastewater direct discharge pipe. When the first TDS probe 391 and the second TDS probe 392 detect that the effluent desalination rate is up to standard, the second solenoid valve 37 closes and the first solenoid valve 36 opens. The water in the second effluent branch 386 flows to the effluent section 812 and is stored in the first water tank 20 for user use.
[0070] For details, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 5As shown, when the composite filter element 31 is installed in the first mounting section and the water supply equipment 1 is producing water, the raw water in the second water tank 12 flows into the first inlet branch 383 through the inlet section 811. At this time, the first TDS probe 391 detects the inlet TDS of the raw water. The raw water enters the pre-filter element through the first plug 3811. After coarse filtration by the pre-filter element, it flows into the first outlet branch 384 through the second plug 3812, and then enters the reverse osmosis filter element 32 through the fifth plug 3821. After filtration by the reverse osmosis filter element 32, it is separated into a pure water stream and a wastewater stream. The pure water flows into the second inlet branch 385 from the reverse osmosis outlet through the sixth plug 3822, and then flows into the post-filter element for further filtration through the first one-way valve 34 and the third plug 3813. The pure water after further filtration flows into the second outlet branch 386 through the fourth plug 3814. At this time, the second TDS probe 392 detects the outlet TDS of the pure water. After the effluent desalination rate meets the standard, the second solenoid valve 37 closes and the first solenoid valve 36 opens. Water in the second effluent branch 386 flows to the effluent section 812, and the water in the effluent section 812 flows and is stored in the first water tank 20. When the first TDS probe 391 and the second TDS probe 392 detect that the effluent desalination rate does not meet the standard, the second solenoid valve 37 opens and the first solenoid valve 36 closes. Pure water in the second effluent branch 386 flows into the second water tank 12 through the flushing branch 83 and sequentially through the second one-way valve 35 and the second solenoid valve 37, or is discharged directly as wastewater through the wastewater direct discharge pipe. Wastewater filtered by the reverse osmosis filter element 32 flows from the wastewater outlet through the seventh plug 3823 and the wastewater branch 82, then through the wastewater valve 821 into the second water tank 12, or is discharged directly as wastewater through the wastewater direct discharge pipe.
[0071] When users collect drinking water, the TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) of the effluent increases with the duration of water collection due to wastewater backflow. Therefore, the design is to activate the direct wastewater discharge procedure once the user's drinking water collection time reaches a certain value. This maintains normal water production by opening the second solenoid valve 37 and closing the first solenoid valve 36. Wastewater from the flushing branch 83 and wastewater branch 82 is directly discharged through the direct wastewater discharge pipe, without entering the second water tank 12. The effluent TDS quickly returns to its initial level with minimal impact on drinking water flow.
[0072] According to embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, a cleaning method for water supply equipment is also proposed, which includes the following steps:
[0073] Step S101: Calculate the remaining service life of the composite filter element and the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element;
[0074] Step S102: If the remaining service life of the composite filter element is less than the first preset service life value and the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element is greater than the second preset service life value, issue a filter replacement and cleaning prompt message.
[0075] Step S103: Replace the composite filter element with a cleaning filter element according to the filter element replacement and cleaning prompts;
[0076] Step S104: Rinse the reverse osmosis filter element.
[0077] In step S101, the water supply equipment proposed in this embodiment uses a PCB filter (Pre Carbon Block Filter). The full Chinese name for a PCB filter is multi-layer ceramic substrate filter, also known as a pre-carbon block filter. The core filtration medium of the PCB filter is activated carbon. The PCB filter primarily relies on physical adsorption and chemical reactions to effectively remove residual chlorine, odor, color, and organic pollutants from the water. The reverse osmosis filter is an RO filter (Reverse Osmosis Filter). The RO filter uses a reverse osmosis membrane as its core filtration medium, removing most dissolved solids, heavy metals, microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, etc., from the raw water through a semi-permeable membrane separation process.
[0078] In this embodiment, the service life of the RO filter element is greater than that of the PCB filter element. Therefore, when the service life of the composite filter element in the water supply equipment reaches the preset life (that is, the remaining service life of the composite filter element is less than the first preset life value), and the service life of the reverse osmosis filter element does not reach the preset life (that is, the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element is greater than the second preset life value), the situation is as follows.
[0079] In step S102, issuing a filter replacement / cleaning reminder serves as a prompt, facilitating timely filter replacement / cleaning of the water supply equipment and ensuring it remains in good working order. The filter replacement / cleaning reminder can be configured in various ways. For example, in some embodiments, the water supply equipment is equipped with a filter replacement / cleaning indicator light, and the reminder is set to illuminate the indicator light, using different colors or flashing patterns to distinguish different states. For instance, a flashing red indicator light indicates that the water supply equipment requires a filter replacement / cleaning operation. In other embodiments, the reminder is set to emit a specific sound signal, such as a buzzer or voice prompt. For example, the equipment might issue a voice prompt saying "Please perform filter replacement / cleaning." In still other embodiments, the reminder is displayed on the screen of the water supply equipment, including text descriptions and possible graphic prompts.
[0080] In step S103, after the user receives the filter replacement and cleaning prompt, the composite filter needs to be manually replaced with the cleaning filter. After the user completes the replacement of the cleaning filter, the water supply equipment starts step S104 after receiving the user's filter replacement and cleaning instruction, and uses the cleaning filter to perform multiple rounds of rinsing on the reverse osmosis filter.
[0081] The water supply equipment also includes a filter replacement and cleaning switch. This switch can be a separate physical button, installed on the control panel of the water supply equipment or in an easily accessible location. Users can send a filter replacement and cleaning command by pressing the button. Alternatively, the filter replacement and cleaning switch can use touch-sensitive technology; when a user touches a specific area, the filter replacement and cleaning program is triggered.
[0082] In some embodiments, wireless communication technology can also be used, allowing users to control the filter replacement and cleaning switch using remote devices such as remote controls or mobile apps. For example, a user can remotely start the cleaning program of the water supply system when leaving home so that clean water can be used upon returning.
[0083] The filter replacement and cleaning command is a signal sent by the user to the water supply equipment via the filter replacement and cleaning switch to initiate the cleaning program. The filter replacement and cleaning command can be set to a single operation of the cleaning switch or a combination of multiple operation switches to generate the filter replacement and cleaning start signal sent to the water supply equipment. For example, a single operation includes pressing the filter replacement and cleaning switch once; a combination of multiple operations includes clicking the filter replacement and cleaning switch multiple times within a preset time, such as clicking the filter replacement and cleaning switch twice consecutively within 2 seconds. This ensures that the filter replacement and cleaning command sent by the switch is unique and that the water supply equipment can accurately identify the user's operation, avoiding misoperation and interference.
[0084] It should be noted that both the first and second preset lifespan values are greater than zero. This setting ensures that the composite filter and reverse osmosis filter will issue a replacement and cleaning reminder before they are completely worn out, so that users can detect the usage status of the water supply equipment in time and ensure the water quality of the water supply equipment.
[0085] In step S104, the reverse osmosis filter cartridge is rinsed with a cleaning filter cartridge to remove raw water impurities adhering to the filter cartridge, extend its service life, and solve the problems of raw water impurities clogging the filter cartridge and slow water production speed caused by prolonged use. After cleaning the reverse osmosis filter cartridge, a new composite filter cartridge is used to replace the cleaning filter cartridge, and the cleaned reverse osmosis filter cartridge is used again, making full use of the remaining value of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge, saving resources, and reducing the operating cost of the water supply equipment.
[0086] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8As shown, the method for calculating the remaining service life of a composite filter element includes the following steps:
[0087] Step S201: Obtain the total service life T1 of the composite filter element;
[0088] Step S202: Accumulate the water production time t1 of the water supply equipment;
[0089] Step S203: Calculate the remaining service life of the composite filter element by subtracting t1 from T1.
[0090] In this embodiment, in step S201, the service life T1 of the composite filter element is one year, so the service life of the composite filter element is converted to hours as 365*24 hours.
[0091] In step S202, the water production time t1 of the water supply equipment is accumulated. The water supply equipment 1 keeps a timer for each water production process. During the process from the start to the end of each water production, the timer will increase the corresponding value for each unit of time, thereby calculating the running time of each water production process of the water supply equipment. The timer starts from the first power-on of the water supply equipment after the new composite filter is installed, and the water production time of each water production process is accumulated to obtain the water production time t1 of the water supply equipment.
[0092] In step S203, T1 is subtracted from t1 to calculate the remaining service life of the composite filter element. When the remaining service life is less than the first preset service life value, it is determined that the composite filter element has reached the preset service life and needs to be replaced with a new composite filter element.
[0093] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, the method for calculating the remaining service life of a reverse osmosis filter element includes the following steps:
[0094] Step S301: Calculate the theoretical total filtration volume L1 of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge during its service life;
[0095] Step S302: Calculate the real-time cumulative water production p of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge;
[0096] Step S303: Based on the real-time cumulative water production p being greater than or equal to 1 liter, the actual cumulative water production P of the reverse osmosis filter element is increased by 1 liter;
[0097] Step S304: Calculate the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge based on the actual cumulative water production P and the theoretical total filtration water volume L1.
[0098] In step S301, the theoretical total filtration capacity of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge is calculated according to the formula L1 = (1 - (W1 - W0) * X * C) * L0. Where W1 is the TDS value of the area of use, i.e., the TDS value of the influent. W0 is the laboratory TDS value, set at 200 mg / L, which is also the TDS value of the certified laboratory water quality. L1 is the service life of the water supply equipment in the area of use, expressed as the theoretical total filtration capacity. L0 is the certified filter cartridge lifespan, specifically 18250L (3650L * 5 years). X is the water quality coefficient, set to 0.0015 based on previous experimental verification. C is the intelligent flushing coefficient, initially set to 1.00 (C can be revised according to different RO filter cartridge winding methods / electronically controlled flushing programs).
[0099] It should be noted that in step S301, by introducing the TDS value (W1) of the usage area, the theoretical total filtration volume can be accurately calculated based on the differences in water quality in different regions. Water quality varies from region to region; some areas have high water hardness and high TDS values, while others have relatively better water quality. The personalized calculation method in this embodiment allows for a more accurate assessment of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge's lifespan, avoiding situations where a uniform standard leads to premature filter cartridge failure in areas with poor water quality, or where the filter cartridge's lifespan is not fully utilized in areas with good water quality.
[0100] Using a fixed laboratory TDS value (W0) as a reference helps establish a relatively stable baseline. A laboratory TDS value of 200 mg / L serves as a generally accepted standard water quality reference, facilitating comparison with the water quality of the actual usage area and thus allowing for more accurate adjustments to the calculation of the theoretical total filtration volume.
[0101] The method for calculating the service life of reverse osmosis filter cartridges proposed in this embodiment can accurately calculate the theoretical total filtration capacity of the filter cartridges under different regional water quality conditions, thus providing users with more accurate information on the remaining service life of the filter cartridges. Users can use this information to rationally schedule cartridge replacement and cleaning, avoiding waste caused by premature replacement and preventing water quality degradation and equipment damage due to overuse of the reverse osmosis filter cartridges.
[0102] It should also be noted that the regional TDS value W1 is obtained by averaging all TDS sample values collected multiple times. Understandably, a single TDS measurement may be affected by various factors, such as the accuracy of the measuring instrument, changes in the measurement environment, and the heterogeneity of the water sample. By collecting TDS values multiple times and averaging them, random errors can be effectively reduced, and the accuracy of the measurement results can be improved. For example, when water samples are collected at different times for TDS value measurement, fluctuations in water source, peak and off-peak water usage may lead to significant differences in single measurement results. Averaging these fluctuations can smooth out these fluctuations, resulting in a result closer to the true value. In this embodiment, the number of TDS sample values collected is greater than or equal to eight.
[0103] In steps S302 and S303, the real-time cumulative water production p of the reverse osmosis filter element is calculated. This real-time cumulative water production p is obtained from the real-time water supply of the self-priming pump. Specifically, based on parameters such as the power and efficiency of the self-priming pump and the density of water, the flow rate of the self-priming pump can be calculated using theoretical formulas, and thus the pumping volume per unit time can be calculated. Since the water pumped by the self-priming pump is ultimately delivered to the reverse osmosis filter element, the real-time cumulative water production p of the reverse osmosis filter element is equal to the real-time water supply of the self-priming pump.
[0104] In detail, the power formula for a self-priming pump is: Power = Flow rate × Head × Water density × Gravitational acceleration ÷ Efficiency. Since the power, head, and efficiency of a self-priming pump are known parameters, the flow rate can be derived from the formula.
[0105] The real-time cumulative water production p refers to the water production of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge from 0 to 1 liter. When the real-time cumulative water production p is greater than or equal to 1 liter, the actual cumulative water production P of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge is increased by 1 liter. After the actual cumulative water production P is increased by 1 liter, the real-time cumulative water production p is cleared to zero, and the process returns to step S302 to re-accumulate the real-time cumulative water production p of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge.
[0106] In step S304: the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element is calculated based on the actual cumulative water production P and the theoretical total filtered water volume L1. The remaining service life data can be used to intuitively understand whether the reverse osmosis filter element has remaining use value.
[0107] Understandably, the remaining service life can be expressed in various ways. For example, in some embodiments, the remaining service life is expressed using the remaining filtration volume of the reverse osmosis filter element. The remaining filtration volume is the total amount of water that the reverse osmosis filter element can filter while ensuring that the water quality meets the requirements. Therefore, the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element can be calculated using the formula: Remaining service life = Theoretical total filtration volume L1 - Actual cumulative water production volume P.
[0108] In other embodiments, the proportion of the actual cumulative water production P to the theoretical total filtered water volume L1 can also be calculated using the proportional calculation method, i.e., P / L1, and the remaining service life is equal to the total service life multiplied by (1-P / L1).
[0109] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 10 As shown, the steps for calculating the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge based on the actual cumulative water production P and the theoretical total filtration volume L1 include:
[0110] Step S401: Calculate the filtration volume L2 of the reverse osmosis filter element for every 1% of its service life based on the theoretical total filtration volume L1 / 100;
[0111] Step S402: Based on a*L2<P<b*L2, increment the percentage of service life F of the reverse osmosis filter element by 1%;
[0112] Step S403: Calculate the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element based on 100%-F.
[0113] Where a and b are constants, and 0.8 < a ≤ 1, 1 < b < 1.2.
[0114] In step S401, the filtration volume L2 of the reverse osmosis filter element for each 1% of its service life is calculated by dividing the theoretical total filtration volume L1 by 100. L2 represents the filtration volume corresponding to each 1% of the reverse osmosis filter element's service life. By subdividing the theoretical total filtration volume L1 of the reverse osmosis filter element into the filtration volume L2 corresponding to each 1% of its service life, the calculation of the reverse osmosis filter element's service life becomes more precise, more accurately reflecting the actual usage of the reverse osmosis filter element and avoiding errors caused by overly rough estimations.
[0115] In step S402, the cumulative percentage of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge's service life F is determined based on the condition a*L2 < P < b*L2. Here, a and b are constants, satisfying 0.8 < a ≤ 1 and 1 < b < 1.2. When the actual cumulative water production P is between aL2 and bL2, it indicates that the filter cartridge's service life has increased by 1%, and the cumulative percentage of service life F increases by 1%. By introducing constants a and b, the calculation process can adapt to different usage conditions and performance changes of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge. The range of values for a and b considers the uncertainties and fluctuations in actual use, making the calculation results more reliable. For example, the reverse osmosis filter cartridge may be affected by factors such as water quality and usage frequency during use, and the range of values for a and b can, to some extent, accommodate these changes, making the calculated remaining service life more consistent with reality.
[0116] In step S403, subtracting the percentage F of the used service life from 100% gives the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element. As the cumulative actual water production P increases, when gradually approaching each filtration water volume range corresponding to 1% of the service life, the percentage F of the used service life will be gradually accumulated. This can give an early warning to the user that the service life of the reverse osmosis filter element is about to expire, allowing the user to have enough time to prepare for replacing the reverse osmosis filter element and avoiding affecting the water use safety and the normal operation of the device due to the sudden failure of the reverse osmosis filter element.
[0117] Among them, the value of a can be, for example, 0.8, 0.9, 0.95, 0.98, 0.99, 1, etc. The value of b can be, for example, 1.01, 1.02, 1.05, 1.08, 1.1, 1.15, 1.2, etc.
[0118] In some embodiments, as Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 11 show, the method for calculating the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element further includes the following steps:
[0119] Step S501: Calculate the theoretical total filtration water volume L1 of the service life of the reverse osmosis filter element;
[0120] Step S502: Calculate the real-time cumulative water production p of the reverse osmosis filter element;
[0121] Step S503: When the real-time cumulative water production p is greater than or equal to 1 liter, add 1 liter to the actual cumulative water production P of the reverse osmosis filter element;
[0122] Step S504: Calculate the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element according to the actual cumulative water production P and the theoretical total filtration water volume L1;
[0123] Step S505: Calculate the maximum available duration H of the service life of the reverse osmosis filter element according to (L1 / 10)*24;
[0124] Step S506: Calculate the usage time t2 of the reverse osmosis filter element for every 1% of the service life according to the maximum available duration H / 100;
[0125] Step S507: Calculate the real-time cumulative power-on time t3 of the reverse osmosis filter element;
[0126] Step S508: When the real-time cumulative water production p is less than 1 liter and the real-time cumulative power-on time t3 is greater than or equal to 1 hour, add 1 hour to the actual cumulative power-on time H2 of the reverse osmosis filter element;
[0127] Step S509: When a*t2 < H2 < b*t2, add 1% to the percentage F of the used service life of the reverse osmosis filter element;
[0128] Step S510: Calculate the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element based on 100%-F.
[0129] In this embodiment, steps S501 and S301 are the same, steps S502 and S302 are the same, steps S503 and S303 are the same, and steps S504 and S304 are the same, and will not be repeated here.
[0130] In step S505, the maximum usable time H of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge is calculated according to the formula (L1 / 10)*24, where H is in hours, 24 refers to 24 hours in a day, and 10 refers to the daily water production of the water supply equipment being 10L.
[0131] In step S506, the usage time t2 of the reverse osmosis filter element for each 1% of its service life is calculated by dividing the maximum usable time H by 100. t2 represents the water production time corresponding to each 1% of the reverse osmosis filter element's total service life. By subdividing the maximum usable time H of the reverse osmosis filter element into the usage time t2 corresponding to each 1% of its service life, the calculation of the reverse osmosis filter element's service life becomes more precise, more accurately reflecting the actual usage of the reverse osmosis filter element and avoiding errors caused by overly rough estimations.
[0132] In steps S507 and S508, the real-time power-on cumulative time t3 refers to the water production time of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge during water production. The real-time water production cumulative amount p refers to the water production time of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge from 0 to 1 hour. If the real-time water production cumulative amount p is less than 1 liter, it is determined whether the real-time power-on cumulative time t3 is greater than or equal to 1 hour. When the real-time power-on cumulative time t3 is greater than or equal to 1 hour, the actual power-on cumulative time H2 of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge is added by 1 hour.
[0133] After the actual power-on cumulative time H2 is accumulated by 1 hour, the real-time power-on cumulative time t3 is reset to zero, and the process returns to step S502 to recalculate the real-time water production cumulative amount p of the reverse osmosis filter element.
[0134] In step S509, the cumulative percentage of service life F of the reverse osmosis filter element is determined based on the condition a*t2 < H2 < b*t2. Here, a and b are constants, satisfying 0.8 < a ≤ 1 and 1 < b < 1.2. When the actual cumulative energizing time H2 is between aL2 and bL2, it indicates that the filter element's service life has increased by 1%, and the cumulative percentage of service life F increases by 1%. By introducing constants a and b, the calculation process can adapt to different usage conditions and performance changes of the reverse osmosis filter element. The range of values for a and b considers the uncertainties and fluctuations in actual use, making the calculation results more reliable. For example, the reverse osmosis filter element may be affected by factors such as water quality and usage frequency during use, and the range of values for a and b can, to some extent, accommodate these changes, making the calculated remaining service life more consistent with reality.
[0135] In step S510, the remaining lifespan of the reverse osmosis filter element is obtained by subtracting the percentage of service life F from 100%. As the actual cumulative energizing time H2 increases, the percentage of service life F is gradually added as the cumulative energizing time interval corresponding to each 1% of the service life approaches. This provides users with an early warning that the reverse osmosis filter element's lifespan is about to expire, giving them sufficient time to prepare for replacement and preventing water safety and normal equipment operation from being affected by sudden filter element failure.
[0136] The value of 'a' can be, for example, 0.8, 0.9, 0.95, 0.98, 0.99, 1, etc. The value of 'b' can be, for example, 1.01, 1.02, 1.05, 1.08, 1.1, 1.15, 1.2, etc.
[0137] According to embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 12 As shown, a method for calculating the remaining lifespan of a reverse osmosis filter cartridge is also proposed, including the following steps:
[0138] Step S601: The water supply equipment is powered on to produce water;
[0139] Step S602: Collect TDS sample values of the influent from the first influent branch multiple times;
[0140] Step S603: Calculate the average value of all influent TDS samples to obtain the TDS value W1 for the area of use;
[0141] Step S604: Calculate the theoretical total filtration capacity L1 of the reverse osmosis filter element according to the formula L1=(1-(W1-W0)*X*C)*L0;
[0142] Step S605: Calculate the maximum usable lifespan H of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge using L1 / 10*24;
[0143] Step S606: Calculate the usage time t2 of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge for every 1% of its service life according to the formula H / 100;
[0144] Step S607: Calculate the real-time cumulative water production p of the reverse osmosis filter element, and calculate the real-time cumulative energizing time t3 of the reverse osmosis filter element;
[0145] Step S608: Determine whether the real-time cumulative water production p is greater than 1 liter. If yes, proceed to step S609; otherwise, proceed to step 612.
[0146] Step S609: Increase the actual cumulative water production P of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge by 1 liter;
[0147] Step S610: Calculate the amount of water filtered by the reverse osmosis filter cartridge for every 1% of its service life using the formula L1 / 100;
[0148] Step S611: Based on aL2 < P < bL2, increment the percentage of service life F of the reverse osmosis filter element by 1%, and proceed to step 615;
[0149] Step S612: Determine whether the real-time power-on cumulative time t3 is less than 1 hour. If yes, proceed to step 607; otherwise, proceed to step S613.
[0150] Step S613: Increment the actual energization time H2 of the reverse osmosis filter element by 1 hour;
[0151] Step S614: Based on at2 < H2 < bt2, increase the percentage of service life F of the reverse osmosis filter element by 1%;
[0152] Step S615: Calculate the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element based on 100%-F.
[0153] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 13 As shown, the steps for rinsing the reverse osmosis filter element include:
[0154] Step S701: Control the inlet section, water branch and wastewater branch to be connected in sequence;
[0155] Step S702: Perform the first flushing of the reverse osmosis filter element and continue for the first time period;
[0156] Step S703: Send the first water change signal for the second water tank;
[0157] Step S704: Replace the raw water in the second water tank according to the first water replacement signal from the second water tank;
[0158] Step S705: Perform a second flush of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge and continue for a second time period.
[0159] The second time period is longer than the first time period.
[0160] In step S701, the inlet section 811, the water branch, and the wastewater branch 82 are connected sequentially. The flow path of the raw water is as follows: inlet section 811, first inlet branch 383, first connector 3811, cleaning filter element 301, second connector 3812, first outlet branch 384, fifth connector 3821, reverse osmosis filter element 32, seventh connector 3823, wastewater passage 387, and wastewater branch 82. The wastewater after rinsing the reverse osmosis filter element 32 is discharged through the wastewater branch 82, thus the reverse osmosis filter element 32 can be cleaned using the cleaning filter element 301. The cleaning filter element 301 can generate a specific water flow or chemical action to remove raw water impurities attached to the reverse osmosis filter element 32, extend the service life of the reverse osmosis filter element 32, and solve the problems of raw water impurities clogging the reverse osmosis filter element 32 and slow water production speed caused by long-term use. After cleaning the reverse osmosis filter element 32, the cleaning filter element 301 is replaced with a new composite filter element 31 and installed in the first installation part, so that the cleaned reverse osmosis filter element 32 can continue to be used, making full use of the remaining value of the reverse osmosis filter element 32, saving resources, and reducing the operating cost of the water supply equipment 1.
[0161] In steps S702 to S705, the cleaning filter element 301 is controlled to flush the reverse osmosis filter element 32 for a first time period, that is, according to the flushing path in step S204, the self-priming pump 310 is started to flush the reverse osmosis filter element 32, and this flushing continues for the first time period. During the first flush, the self-priming pump 310 is started, the first solenoid valve 36 and the second solenoid valve 37 are closed, and the opening of the wastewater valve 821 is adjusted to its maximum value. Specifically, after starting the self-priming pump 310, the self-priming pump 310 drives the water in the inlet section 811 of the main water supply line 81 to move from the second water tank 12 towards the first main inlet line. The raw water in the second water tank 12 is drawn into the inlet section 811 under the driving action of the self-priming pump 310, and flows sequentially through the first inlet branch line 383 and the first plug 3811 into the cleaning filter element 301. When the raw water passes through the cleaning filter element 301, chemical substances (such as acidic substances and oxidants) are released from the cleaning filter element 301. The chemical substances dissolve in the raw water and flow with it through the second connector 3812, the first outlet branch 384, and the fifth connector 3821 into the reverse osmosis filter element 32. The chemical substances react with scale and other impurities in the reverse osmosis filter element 32, causing these impurities to detach from the surface or pores of the filter element 32 and be converted into soluble salts. These salts are then flushed away by the water flow through the seventh connector 3823, the wastewater passage 387, and the wastewater branch 82, finally flowing back into the second water tank 12 via the wastewater branch 82. The first flushing cycle ends after the first continuous flushing period.
[0162] As can be imagined, after the first flushing operation is completed, the scale and other impurities in the reverse osmosis filter element 32 are dissolved into a soluble salt solution and eventually discharged into the second water tank 12. Therefore, as the first flushing period progresses, the concentration of the soluble salt solution in the second water tank 12 gradually increases. Since the water in the second water tank 12 is circulating during the flushing process, the concentration of the soluble salt solution in the raw water used to flush the reverse osmosis filter element 32 also gradually increases, which is not conducive to continuing to flush the reverse osmosis filter element 32. Therefore, after the first flushing is completed, the raw water in the second water tank 12 needs to be replaced.
[0163] In step S703, after the first round of rinsing is completed, a first water change signal for the second water tank 12 is issued to prompt the user to change the water in the second water tank 12. The water change signal can be an electronic signal that triggers the indicator light on the device to flash, emits an audible prompt, or sends a notification to the relevant personnel's mobile phone, computer, or other devices via a network connection.
[0164] In step S704, after the user completes the water change operation, a second flushing operation is performed. In this step, the control device 200 can detect whether the water change operation is completed based on the water level change in the second water tank 12. For example, if the water level in the second water tank 12 first drops to the lower limit and then rises to the upper limit, it is determined that the user has completed the water change operation in the second water tank 12, and the upper limit of the water level is greater than the lower limit.
[0165] In step S705, during the second flushing, the self-priming pump 310 is started to flush the reverse osmosis filter element 32, and this process continues for a second time period. During the second flushing, the self-priming pump 310 is started, the first solenoid valve 36 and the second solenoid valve 37 are closed, and the opening of the wastewater valve 821 is adjusted to its maximum value. Specifically, after starting the self-priming pump 310, the pump drives the water in the inlet section 811 of the main water supply line 81 to move from the second water tank 12 towards the first main inlet line. The raw water in the second water tank 12 is drawn into the inlet section 811 by the self-priming pump 310, and flows sequentially through the first inlet branch line 383 and the first plug 3811 into the cleaning filter element 301. When the raw water passes through the cleaning filter element 301, chemical substances (such as acidic substances and oxidants) are precipitated and dissolved. In the raw water, the water flows through the second connector 3812, the first outlet branch 384, and the fifth connector 3821 into the reverse osmosis filter element 32. The chemical substances react with scale and other impurities in the reverse osmosis filter element 32, causing these impurities to detach from the surface or pores of the filter element 32 and be converted into soluble salts. These salts are then flushed away from the wastewater outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element 32 through the seventh connector 3823, wastewater passage 387, and wastewater branch 82, finally flowing back into the second water tank 12 via wastewater branch 82. The second flushing cycle ends after the second continuous flushing period.
[0166] In some embodiments, the first time period can be set to any value between 5 min and 15 min, such as 5 min, 8 min, 10 min, 12 min, 13 min, 14 min, 15 min, etc. The second time period is set to any value between 10 min and 20 min, such as 10 min, 12 min, 14 min, 15 min, 18 min, 19 min, 20 min, etc., and the second time period is longer than the first time period.
[0167] In one exemplary embodiment, the first time period is set to 10 minutes and the second time period is set to 15 minutes.
[0168] In this embodiment, the first flush primarily removes some obvious impurities and contaminants from the surface of the reverse osmosis filter element 32. As the flushing progresses, some stubborn stains and deposits may require a longer time and stronger water flow to remove. The second flushing period is longer than the first, allowing the cleaning filter element 301 more time to thoroughly flush the reverse osmosis filter element 32, improving the flushing effect and ensuring that the reverse osmosis filter element 32 returns to better filtration performance. For example, some fine particles may not be completely removed in the first flush, but in the second, longer flushing period, due to the longer duration of the water flow, these particles have a greater chance of being washed away.
[0169] It should also be noted that the state of the reverse osmosis filter element 32 may change after the first flush. Some previously clogged pores may partially open, but new impurities may also enter the reverse osmosis filter element 32. A longer second flushing period can better accommodate this change and allow for more targeted flushing of the reverse osmosis filter element 32 after the first flush.
[0170] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 14 As shown, the method for flushing a reverse osmosis filter element includes the following steps:
[0171] Step S801: Control the inlet section, water branch and wastewater branch to be connected in sequence;
[0172] Step S802: Perform the first flushing of the reverse osmosis filter element and continue for the first time period;
[0173] Step S803: Send the first water change signal for the second water tank;
[0174] Step S804: Replace the raw water in the second water tank according to the first water replacement signal from the second water tank;
[0175] Step S805: Perform a second flush on the reverse osmosis filter cartridge and continue for a second time period.
[0176] Step S806: Send the second water tank replacement signal;
[0177] Step S807: Replace the raw water in the second water tank according to the second water tank replacement signal;
[0178] Step S808: Control the inlet section, water branch and flushing branch to be connected in sequence, control the wastewater branch and outlet section to be disconnected, and perform the third flushing of the reverse osmosis filter element for the third time period.
[0179] In this embodiment, steps S801 to S805 are the same as steps S701 to S705, and will not be described again here.
[0180] In steps S806 and S807, after the second round of rinsing is completed, a second water change signal for the second water tank 12 is issued to prompt the user to change the water in the second water tank 12. This water change signal can be an electronic signal, triggering an indicator light on the device to flash, emitting an audible prompt, or sending a notification to a relevant person's mobile phone, computer, or other device via a network connection. After the user completes the water change operation, the third round of rinsing is performed. In this step, the control device 200 can detect whether the water change operation is complete based on the water level change in the second water tank 12. For example, if the water level in the second water tank 12 first drops to the lower limit and then rises to the upper limit, it is determined that the user has completed the water change operation in the second water tank 12, where the upper limit is greater than the lower limit.
[0181] In step S808, during the third round of filter element replacement and cleaning, the self-priming pump 310 is started, the first solenoid valve 36 is closed, the opening of the wastewater valve 821 is adjusted to the minimum value, and the second solenoid valve 37 is opened. Specifically, after starting the self-priming pump 310, the self-priming pump 310 drives the water in the inlet section 811 of the main water supply line 81 to move from the second water tank 12 towards the first main water supply line. The raw water in the second water tank 12 is drawn into the inlet section 811 under the driving action of the self-priming pump 310, and flows into the cleaning filter element 301 through the first inlet branch line 383 and the first plug 3811 in sequence. When the raw water passes through the cleaning filter element 301, the cleaning filter element 301 precipitates chemical substances (such as acidic substances and oxidants) and dissolves in the raw water, which then flows with the raw water through the second plug 3812. The water flows through the first outlet branch 384 and the fifth connector 3821 into the reverse osmosis filter element 32. The chemical substances react with scale and other impurities in the reverse osmosis filter element 32, causing these impurities to detach from the surface or pores of the filter element 32 and be converted into soluble salts. These salts flow from the pure water outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element 32 through the sixth connector 3822, the second inlet branch 385, the third connector 3813, the cleaning filter element 301, the fourth connector 3814, the second outlet branch 386, and the flushing branch 83, finally flowing back into the second water tank 12 through the flushing branch 83. The third flushing cycle ends after a third flushing period. The third flushing period is equal to the second flushing period.
[0182] In this embodiment, the reverse osmosis filter element 32 is rinsed through three rounds of rinsing: the first round, the second round, and the third round, respectively, via the wastewater outlet and the pure water outlet. This ensures that the water flow reaches different parts of the reverse osmosis filter element 32, including hard-to-reach corners and pores. This allows for a more comprehensive removal of impurities adhering to the filter element, improving the thoroughness of the cleaning. The water flow along different paths generates different rinsing directions and intensities, creating a multi-angle impact on the impurities, thereby more comprehensively removing impurities adhering to the reverse osmosis filter element 32 and improving the thoroughness of the cleaning.
[0183] In some embodiments, after completing the third rinsing step, the cleaning method further includes the following steps:
[0184] Step S901: Replace the cleaning filter element with a new composite filter element;
[0185] Step S902: Control the inlet section, water branch, flushing branch and wastewater branch to be connected in sequence, control the outlet section to be disconnected, and flush the composite filter and reverse osmosis filter for the fourth time period.
[0186] In step S901, the cleaning filter element 301 is removed from the first plug assembly 381 and a new composite filter element 31 is inserted to replace the cleaning filter element 301, which is convenient to operate.
[0187] In step S902, after the water supply equipment 1 completes the filter element replacement flushing and replaces the new composite filter element 31, it needs to perform a self-cleaning operation on the composite filter element 31. During this process, the self-priming pump 310 starts, the first solenoid valve 36 closes, the wastewater valve 821 is adjusted to its maximum opening, and the second solenoid valve 37 opens.
[0188] Specifically, after the self-priming pump 310 is started, the self-priming pump 310 drives the water in the inlet section 811 of the main water production line 81 to move from the second water tank 12 towards the first main inlet line. The raw water in the second water tank 12 is drawn into the inlet section 811 under the driving action of the self-priming pump 310, and flows sequentially through the first inlet branch 383 and the first plug 3811 to the pre-filter. When the raw water passes through the pre-filter, it washes away the protective liquid and small particles and debris such as carbon powder in the pre-filter. The raw water then flows through the second plug 3812, the first outlet branch 384 and the fifth plug 3821 to the reverse osmosis filter 32. The raw water carrying impurities then... The reverse osmosis filter element 32 is divided into two paths. One path carries a large amount of impurities from the raw water through the wastewater outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element 32, through the seventh connector 3823, wastewater passage 387, and wastewater branch 82, and finally flows back to the second water tank 12 through the wastewater branch 82. The other path carries raw water that, after being filtered by the reverse osmosis filter element 32, flows from the pure water outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element 32 through the second inlet branch 385 of the sixth connector 3822 and the third connector 3813 to the post-filter element, where it is flushed to remove debris such as carbon powder and other impurities. The flushed post-filter element then flows back to the second water tank 12 through the fourth connector 3814, the second outlet branch 386, and the flushing branch 83.
[0189] In this embodiment, rinsing the new composite filter element 31 can effectively remove impurities introduced during the manufacturing and storage process, ensuring that the composite filter element 31 can provide clean and safe drinking water after it is put into use.
[0190] In some embodiments, the water level in the second water tank is acquired, and flushing is stopped and a water replacement instruction is issued when the water level falls below a preset lower limit. When the water level in the second water tank is below the lower limit, it indicates that the quality of the raw water in the second water tank is lower than the lower limit required for cleaning the filter element. If the reverse osmosis filter element is cleaned continuously, the cleaning effect will be greatly reduced. Therefore, by monitoring the water level in the second water tank, a water replacement instruction is issued when the water level falls below the lower limit to remind the user to replace the raw water in the second water tank to improve the quality of the raw water.
[0191] The water supply equipment proposed in this invention also includes a liquid level detection component, which is installed in the second water tank and used to detect the water level data in the second water tank. The liquid level detection component is electrically connected to the control device. The control device obtains the water level data of the second water tank through the liquid level detection component. When the water level data in the second water tank is lower than the preset lower limit, the control device issues a water replacement instruction message for the second water tank.
[0192] The liquid level detection components include, but are not limited to, pressure sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and capacitive level gauges. For example, in some embodiments, a pressure sensor is installed at the bottom of the second water tank to indirectly determine the water level by detecting the pressure of the water on the bottom of the tank. Water pressure is directly proportional to water level, and the water level data can be accurately calculated by measuring the pressure value. This detection method is suitable for water tanks of various shapes and sizes and has high accuracy and stability. In other embodiments, the liquid level detection component is a capacitive level gauge, which includes two electrodes installed at the first and second water level positions in the second water tank, respectively. When the water level changes, the dielectric constant of the water changes the capacitance between the electrodes. The water level can be determined by measuring the change in capacitance.
[0193] In this embodiment, the liquid level detection component includes a float, a sensor, and a reed switch. The float is typically made of a material with a density less than water, such as plastic or foam. The float can be spherical, cylindrical, or other shapes suitable for floating in water. The float slides up and down on the reed switch as the water level in the second tank changes, and the change in the float's position reflects the water level in the tank.
[0194] The reed switch is installed vertically inside the second water tank and is made of a robust material, such as stainless steel or aluminum alloy, to ensure stability within the tank. The reed switch guides and supports the float, allowing it to slide accurately up and down along the reed switch under buoyancy.
[0195] The sensor is fixed to a reed switch. The sensor includes, but is not limited to, photoelectric sensors, Hall effect sensors, and capacitive sensors. It detects the position of the float and converts it into corresponding water level data. The sensor features high precision, high reliability, and fast response to accurately reflect changes in the water level within the second tank.
[0196] The sensor is positioned near the bottom of the second water tank, and the float is positioned above the sensor. When the float drops with the water level in the second water tank until it touches the sensor, the water level information detected by the sensor is the preset lower limit of the water level.
[0197] In some embodiments, please combine Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the water supply equipment 1 also includes a control device 200, which is electrically connected to a self-priming pump 310, a first TDS probe 391, a second TDS probe 392, a wastewater valve 821, a first solenoid valve 36, and a second solenoid valve 37. Specifically, in the first round of filter replacement cleaning, the control device 200 controls the self-priming pump 310 to start, the first solenoid valve 36 and the second solenoid valve 37 to close, and the wastewater valve 821 to open to its maximum value for a first time period. In the second round of filter replacement cleaning, the control device 200 controls the self-priming pump 310 to start, the first solenoid valve 36 and the second solenoid valve 37 to close, and the wastewater valve 821 to open to its maximum value for a second time period. In the third round of filter replacement cleaning, the control device 200 controls the self-priming pump 310 to start, the first solenoid valve 36 to close, the second solenoid valve 37 to open, and the wastewater valve 821 to open to its minimum value for a third time period. After the new composite filter element 31 is replaced, the control device 200 controls the self-priming pump 310 to start, the first solenoid valve 36 to close, the second solenoid valve 37 to open, and the wastewater valve 821 to open to its maximum value, which continues for the fourth time period.
[0198] In this embodiment, the control device 200 includes a memory 2002 and at least one processor 2001. The memory 2002 stores a program or instructions that can be run on the processor 2001. When the processor 2001 executes the program or instructions, it implements the steps of the cleaning method of the water supply device 1 in this application.
[0199] According to embodiments of the present invention, a computer-readable storage medium is also provided, on which computer-readable instructions are stored. When executed by one or more processors, the computer-readable instructions cause the one or more processors to perform a cleaning method for a water supply device according to any embodiment of the present invention. The cleaning method may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following steps: calculating the remaining service life of the composite filter element and the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element; issuing a filter element replacement and cleaning prompt message based on the remaining service life of the composite filter element being less than a first preset service life value and the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element being greater than a second preset service life value; replacing the composite filter element with a cleaning filter element according to the filter element replacement and cleaning prompt message; and rinsing the reverse osmosis filter element.
[0200] The logic and / or steps represented in the flowchart or otherwise described herein, for example, can be considered as a sequenced list of executable instructions for implementing logical functions, and can be embodied in any computer-readable storage medium for use by, or in conjunction with, an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device (such as a computer-based system, a processor-included system, or other system that can fetch and execute instructions from, an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device). For the purposes of this specification, "computer-readable storage medium" can be any means that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transmit programs for use by, or in conjunction with, an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of computer-readable storage media include: electrical connections (electronic devices) having one or more wires, portable computer disks (magnetic devices), random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM, or flash memory), fiber optic devices, and compact disc read-only memory (CDROM). Furthermore, computer-readable storage media can even be paper or other suitable media on which the program can be printed, since the program can be obtained electronically, for example, by optically scanning the paper or other medium, followed by editing, interpreting, or otherwise processing as necessary, and then stored in computer memory.
[0201] It should be understood that various parts of the present invention can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof. In the above embodiments, multiple steps or methods can be implemented in software or firmware stored in memory and executed by a suitable instruction execution system. For example, if implemented in hardware, as in another embodiment, it can be implemented using any one or a combination of the following techniques known in the art: discrete logic circuits having logic gates for implementing logical functions on data signals, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) having suitable combinational logic gates, programmable gate arrays (PGAs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc.
[0202] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. A method for cleaning a water supply device, characterized in that, The water supply equipment includes a composite filter element, a cleaning filter element, and a reverse osmosis filter element. The cleaning method includes: Calculate the remaining service life of the composite filter element and the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element; If the remaining service life of the composite filter element is less than the first preset service life value, and the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element is greater than the second preset service life value, a filter element replacement and cleaning prompt message will be issued. Replace the composite filter element with the cleaning filter element according to the filter element replacement and cleaning prompt information; The reverse osmosis filter element is rinsed; Wherein, the first preset lifespan value is greater than or equal to zero, and the second preset lifespan value is greater than or equal to zero; The water supply equipment also includes a second water tank, a main water production line, a wastewater branch line, and a flushing branch line. The main water production line includes an inlet section, a branch line, and an outlet section connected in sequence. The composite filter element includes a pre-filter element and a post-filter element. The pre-filter element, the reverse osmosis filter element, and the post-filter element are sequentially arranged in the branch line. The inlet of the inlet section is connected to the outlet of the second water tank. The inlet of the wastewater branch line is connected to the wastewater outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element. The inlet of the flushing branch line is connected to the pure water outlet of the post-filter element through the branch line. The outlets of the wastewater branch line and the flushing branch line are respectively connected to the second water tank. The step of rinsing the reverse osmosis filter element includes: The water inlet section, the water branch, and the wastewater branch are connected in sequence. The reverse osmosis filter element is subjected to a first round of rinsing and this process continues for a first time period. The first signal to change the water in the second water tank was sent.
2. The cleaning method for water supply equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of calculating the remaining service life of the composite filter element includes: Obtain the total service life T1 of the composite filter element; The total water production time t1 of the aforementioned water supply equipment; The remaining service life of the composite filter element is calculated by subtracting t1 from T1.
3. The cleaning method for water supply equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of calculating the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element includes: Calculate the theoretical total water filtration volume L1 of the reverse osmosis filter element during its service life; Calculate the real-time cumulative water production p of the reverse osmosis filter element; Based on the real-time cumulative water production p being greater than or equal to 1 liter, the actual cumulative water production P of the reverse osmosis filter element is increased by 1 liter. The remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element is calculated based on the actual cumulative water production P and the theoretical total filtration water volume L1.
4. The cleaning method for water supply equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, The step of calculating the remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element based on the actual cumulative water production P and the theoretical total filtration water volume L1 includes: Calculate the filtration volume L2 of the reverse osmosis filter element for every 1% of its service life based on the theoretical total filtration volume L1 / 100. Based on a*L2 < P < b*L2, the percentage of the service life F of the reverse osmosis filter element is increased by 1%; The remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element is calculated based on 100%-F. Where a and b are constants, and 0.8 < a ≤ 1, 1 < b < 1.
2.
5. The cleaning method for water supply equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cleaning method further includes: The actual cumulative water production P is reset to zero by incrementing the percentage of the reverse osmosis filter element's service life F by 1%, and the process returns to the step of calculating the real-time cumulative water production p of the reverse osmosis filter element.
6. The cleaning method for water supply equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cleaning method further includes: The maximum usable lifespan H of the reverse osmosis filter element is calculated based on (L1 / 10)*24. The usage time t2 of the reverse osmosis filter element for each 1% of its service life is calculated based on the maximum available time H / 100. Calculate the real-time cumulative energization time t3 of the reverse osmosis filter element; Based on the fact that the real-time cumulative water production p is less than 1 liter and the real-time cumulative power supply time t3 is greater than or equal to 1 hour, the actual cumulative power supply time H2 of the reverse osmosis filter element is increased by 1 hour. Based on a*t2 < H2 < b*t2, the percentage of the service life F of the reverse osmosis filter element is increased by 1%; The remaining service life of the reverse osmosis filter element is calculated based on 100%-F. Where a and b are constants, and 0.8 < a ≤ 1, 1 < b < 1.
2.
7. The cleaning method for water supply equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cleaning method further includes: The actual cumulative energization time H2 is reset to zero by incrementing the percentage of the service life F of the reverse osmosis filter element by 1%, and the process returns to the step of calculating the real-time cumulative energization time t3 of the reverse osmosis filter element.
8. The cleaning method for water supply equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning method further includes: The original water in the second water tank is replaced according to the first water replacement signal from the second water tank. The reverse osmosis filter element is flushed a second time for a second duration; The second time period is longer than the first time period.
9. The cleaning method for water supply equipment according to claim 8, characterized in that, Following the second round of rinsing, the cleaning method further includes: Send the second signal to change the water in the second water tank; Replace the original water in the second water tank according to the second water tank replacement signal; The inlet section, the water branch, and the flushing branch are sequentially connected, while the wastewater branch and the outlet section are disconnected, to perform a third flush on the reverse osmosis filter element for a third time period.
10. The cleaning method for water supply equipment according to claim 9, characterized in that, Following the third rinsing step, the cleaning method further includes: Replace the cleaning filter element with the new composite filter element; The inlet section, the water branch, the flushing branch, and the wastewater branch are sequentially connected, and the outlet section is disconnected to flush the composite filter element and the reverse osmosis filter element for a fourth time period.
11. A water supply device, characterized in that, The water supply equipment includes a main water production line, a wastewater branch line, a flushing branch line, a cleaning filter element, a composite filter element, a reverse osmosis filter element, and a control device. The main water production line includes an inlet section, a water branch line, and an outlet section that are connected in sequence. The composite filter element includes a pre-filter element and a post-filter element. The pre-filter element, the reverse osmosis filter element, and the post-filter element are sequentially arranged in the water branch line. The cleaning filter element can replace the composite filter element and is arranged in the water branch line. The inlet of the wastewater branch line is connected to the wastewater outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element. The inlet of the flushing branch line is connected to the pure water outlet of the post-filter element through the water branch line. The control device includes a memory and at least one processor, the memory storing a computer program that can run on the processor, the computer program being executed by the processor to implement the cleaning method for the water supply equipment as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.
12. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the cleaning method for the water supply equipment as described in any one of claims 1-10.
Citation Information
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