Control methods for multi-functional water heaters and multi-functional water heaters

Abstract

This application relates to a control method for a multi-functional water heater and the multi-functional water heater itself. The method includes: determining the current operating mode of the multi-functional water heater and determining the priority operating function under the current operating mode; obtaining a first operating temperature and a second operating temperature; allocating a first quantity of all operating modules according to the current operating mode, the priority operating function under the current operating mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, so that the operating modules prioritize the priority operating function; and, if the first operating temperature or the second operating temperature is greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold, allocating a second quantity of all operating modules according to the current operating mode, the priority operating function under the current operating mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, so that the operating modules simultaneously satisfy the priority operating function and other operating functions under the current operating mode. The technical solution of this application achieves a reasonable allocation of multiple operating modules.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Currently, some devices or systems integrate hot water production, heating, and cooling functions, such as multi-functional water heaters. Multi-functional water heaters can operate in multiple modes, meaning they can simultaneously produce hot water and heat, or simultaneously produce hot water and cool. In some products, the peripheral devices of a multi-functional water heater include, for example, a water tank (for hot water production), underfloor heating coils (for heating), and fan coil units (for cooling). Multiple working modules are incorporated within the multi-functional water heater to provide circulating refrigerant to the peripheral devices, enabling them to perform their respective functions.

[0003] When the multi-functional water heater is operating in multiple modes, if the user raises a user request (e.g., the user wants to prioritize the hot water function), then the working modules in the multi-functional water heater need to be reasonably allocated to determine how many working modules are used to fulfill the user request and how many working modules are used to fulfill other requests besides the user request.

[0004] Therefore, a control method for multi-functional water heaters is needed to achieve a reasonable allocation of multiple working modules, prioritizing the satisfaction of user needs while ensuring that other needs besides user needs can be well met. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a control method and a multi-functional water heater, which enables the reasonable allocation of multiple working modules, ensuring that user needs are met while also ensuring that other needs besides user needs are well met.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a control method for a multi-functional water heater, the multi-functional water heater comprising multiple working modules, the multi-functional water heater simultaneously realizing hot water production and heating functions, or simultaneously realizing hot water production and cooling functions, the working modules being used to satisfy different operating functions of the multi-functional water heater, the method comprising:

[0007] In response to the mode selection operation, the current operating mode of the multi-functional water heater is determined, and the priority operating function under the current operating mode is determined; wherein, the current operating mode is an operating mode that simultaneously operates the hot water production function and the heating function or an operating mode that simultaneously operates the hot water production function and the cooling function, and the priority operating function is used to describe the function that the user expects to operate first under the current operating mode;

[0008] A first operating temperature and a second operating temperature are obtained; wherein, the first operating temperature is used to describe the operation of the hot water function, and the second operating temperature is used to describe the operation of the heating function / the cooling function.

[0009] Based on the current operating mode, the priority operating function under the current operating mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, a first quantity allocation is made for all the working modules so that the working modules prioritize the priority operating function.

[0010] When the first operating temperature or the second operating temperature is greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold, a second quantity allocation is performed on all the working modules according to the current operating mode, the priority operating function in the current operating mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, so that the working modules simultaneously satisfy the priority operating function and other operating functions in the current operating mode.

[0011] In one feasible embodiment of this application, when the priority operation function is the hot water production function, a first quantity allocation is performed on all the working modules according to the current operation mode, the priority operation function in the current operation mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, including:

[0012] Calculate a first temperature difference between the first operating temperature and the first target temperature, and calculate a second temperature difference between the second operating temperature and the second target temperature; wherein the first target temperature is the target temperature of the hot water function, and the second target temperature is the target temperature of the heating function or the cooling function;

[0013] The number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function is calculated using a first allocation formula; wherein, the first allocation formula is:

[0014]

[0015] Wherein, N1 is the number of working modules that currently meet the priority operation function calculated by the first allocation formula, N2 is the number of working modules that currently meet the other operation functions calculated by the first allocation formula, N is the total number of working modules, Δt1 is the first temperature difference, Δt2 is the second temperature difference, K1 is the set first proportional coefficient, and f() is the round-up function.

[0016] In one feasible embodiment of this application, after calculating the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function using a first allocation formula, the method further includes:

[0017] When the current operating mode is the simultaneous operation of the hot water production function and the heating function, N1 and N2 are recalculated using the first allocation formula whenever a preset time node is reached, until the first working temperature or the second working temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold.

[0018] In one feasible embodiment of this application, after calculating the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function using a first allocation formula, the method further includes:

[0019] When the current operating mode is to simultaneously operate the hot water production function and the cooling function, each time the preset time node is reached, the number of working modules currently satisfying the priority operation function and the number of working modules currently satisfying the other operation functions are calculated using a second allocation formula, until the first operating temperature or the second operating temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold; wherein, the second allocation formula is:

[0020]

[0021] Wherein, N1′ is the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function calculated by the second allocation formula, N2′ is the number of working modules that currently satisfy the other operation functions calculated by the second allocation formula, and K2 is the set second proportional coefficient.

[0022] In one feasible embodiment of this application, the first proportional coefficient is used to describe the difficulty of switching between the hot water function and the heating function, and the difficulty of switching between the hot water function and the heating function is negatively correlated with the first proportional coefficient; the second proportional coefficient is used to describe the difficulty of switching between the hot water function and the cooling function, and the difficulty of switching between the hot water function and the cooling function is negatively correlated with the second proportional coefficient; the first proportional coefficient is smaller than the second proportional coefficient.

[0023] In one feasible embodiment of this application, when the priority operation function is the cooling function or the heating function, a first quantity allocation is performed on all the working modules according to the current operation mode, the priority operation function in the current operation mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, including:

[0024] Determine the first temperature difference and the second temperature difference;

[0025] The number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function is calculated using a third allocation formula; wherein the third allocation formula is:

[0026]

[0027] Wherein, N3 is the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function, calculated by the third allocation formula, and N4 is the number of working modules that currently satisfy the other operation functions, calculated by the third allocation formula.

[0028] In one feasible embodiment of this application, after calculating the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function using a third allocation formula, the method further includes:

[0029] When the priority operation function is the heating function, N3 and N4 are recalculated using the third allocation formula whenever the preset time node is reached, until the first operating temperature or the second operating temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold.

[0030] In one feasible embodiment of this application, after calculating the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function using a third allocation formula, the method further includes:

[0031] When the priority operation function is the cooling function, each time the preset time node is reached, the number of working modules currently satisfying the priority operation function and the number of working modules currently satisfying other operation functions are calculated using a fourth allocation formula, until the first operating temperature or the second operating temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold; wherein, the fourth allocation formula is:

[0032]

[0033] Wherein, N3′ is the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function, calculated by the fourth allocation formula, and N4′ is the number of working modules that currently satisfy the other operation functions, calculated by the fourth allocation formula.

[0034] In one feasible embodiment of this application, a second quantity allocation is performed on all the working modules based on the current operating mode, the priority operating function in the current operating mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, including:

[0035] A first operating time is determined based on the number of working modules currently fulfilling the hot water production function, and a second operating time is determined based on the number of working modules currently fulfilling the heating / cooling function; wherein, the first operating time is the time required for the first operating temperature to reach the first target temperature, and the second operating time is the time required for the second operating temperature to reach the second target temperature;

[0036] The number of working modules satisfying the hot water production function is recalculated using the fifth allocation formula, and the number of working modules satisfying the heating function / cooling function is also calculated; wherein, the fifth allocation formula is:

[0037]

[0038] Wherein, N5 is the number of working modules that satisfy the hot water production function, recalculated using the fifth allocation formula, and N6 is the number of working modules that satisfy the heating function / cooling function, recalculated using the third allocation formula.

[0039] Secondly, this application provides a multi-functional water heater that simultaneously performs hot water production and heating functions, or simultaneously performs hot water production and cooling functions. The multi-functional water heater includes:

[0040] Peripheral equipment, which is used to realize the hot water production function, the heating function, or the cooling function;

[0041] Multiple working modules are provided, each module circulating refrigerant to the peripheral device to enable the peripheral device to perform the hot water production function, the heating function, or the cooling function; wherein, the operation of the peripheral device in performing the hot water production function, the heating function, or the cooling function is changed by changing the number of working modules acting on the peripheral device.

[0042] A control motherboard, the control motherboard being used to implement the control method for a multifunctional water heater as described in any of the embodiments of the first aspect above.

[0043] Compared with the prior art, the technical solution provided in this application has the following advantages: In the technical solution provided in this application, in response to the mode selection operation, the current operating mode of the multi-functional water heater is determined, and the priority operating function in the current operating mode is determined; wherein, the current operating mode is an operating mode that simultaneously operates the hot water function and the heating function or an operating mode that simultaneously operates the hot water function and the cooling function, and the priority operating function is used to describe the function that the user expects to operate first in the current operating mode; a first operating temperature and a second operating temperature are obtained; wherein, the first operating temperature is used to describe the working status of the hot water function, and the second operating temperature is used to describe the working status of the heating function / cooling function; a first quantity allocation is made to all working modules according to the current operating mode, the priority operating function in the current operating mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, so that the working modules prioritize the priority operating function; when the first operating temperature or the second operating temperature is greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold, a second quantity allocation is made to all working modules according to the current operating mode, the priority operating function in the current operating mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, so that the working modules simultaneously satisfy the priority operating function and other operating functions in the current operating mode.

[0044] The technical solution provided in this application describes user needs based on the current operating mode and the priority operating functions within that mode, and describes the actual operation of each function based on a first operating temperature and a second operating temperature. A first allocation of quantities is performed on all working modules with reference to the current operating mode, the priority operating functions within that mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, while simultaneously considering user needs and the actual operation of each function, prioritizing the fulfillment of user needs. If the first or second operating temperature is greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold, it indicates that the current user needs are basically met. A second allocation of quantities is then performed on all working modules based on the current operating mode, the priority operating functions within that mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, resulting in a more balanced distribution of working modules while simultaneously satisfying user needs and other requirements.

[0045] The technical solution provided by the embodiments of this application enables a reasonable allocation of multiple working modules, ensuring that user needs are met first while also ensuring that other needs besides user needs are well met. Attached Figure Description

[0046] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0047] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0048] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference numerals in the accompanying drawings. These illustrations do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are denoted as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings are not to be limited by scale.

[0049] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the piping of a multi-functional water heater that enables the application of the control method for a multi-functional water heater provided in this application;

[0050] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a control method for a multifunctional water heater provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 3 This is a structural schematic diagram of a multifunctional water heater provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0052] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0053] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples. Such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed.

[0054] This application provides a control method for a multi-functional water heater and a multi-functional water heater. Before describing the technical solution provided in this application, the pipeline structure of the multi-functional water heater that can apply the control method provided in this application will be generally described first.

[0055] Figure 1A schematic diagram of the piping of a multi-functional water heater, which enables the application of the control method for a multi-functional water heater provided in this application, is shown below. Figure 1 In this application, the multi-functional water heater includes at least multiple working modules and peripheral devices. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the peripheral equipment of this multi-functional water heater includes a fan coil unit, a floor heating coil unit, and a hot water tank. The fan coil unit is used to achieve the cooling function, the floor heating coil unit is used to achieve the heating function, and the hot water tank is used to achieve the hot water function.

[0056] Each working module is connected to peripheral devices via three-way and two-way valves. The working modules circulate refrigerant to these peripheral devices, enabling them to perform their corresponding functions. In some practical applications, the working modules may specifically include equipment for heat exchange, such as compressors, radiators, and condensers.

[0057] like Figure 1 As shown, controlling the opening direction of the three-way valve can control whether the current working module provides circulating refrigerant to the hot water tank, thereby controlling whether the working module is used to realize the hot water production function of the multi-functional water heater. By controlling the opening direction of the three-way valve and the on / off state of the two-way valve, it is possible to control whether the current working module provides circulating refrigerant to the fan coil unit or the underfloor heating coil, thereby controlling whether the working module is used to realize the cooling function or the heating function of the multi-functional water heater.

[0058] It is understandable that the number of working modules that provide circulating refrigerant to a certain peripheral device determines the operation of the corresponding function of that peripheral device. The more working modules that provide circulating refrigerant to that peripheral device, the higher the operating efficiency of the corresponding function. Conversely, the fewer working modules that provide circulating refrigerant to that peripheral device, the lower the operating efficiency of the corresponding function.

[0059] In practical applications, when user control settings are as described above Figure 1 When using a multi-functional water heater with the illustrated piping, if the user wants to prioritize a specific function, it's necessary to control multiple operating modules within the water heater. This requires a reasonable allocation of the number of modules providing circulating refrigerant to different peripheral devices, prioritizing the user's needs while also ensuring that other needs are met. Therefore, a control method for the multi-functional water heater is needed to achieve the rational allocation of multiple operating modules, prioritizing the user's needs while also ensuring that other needs are adequately met.

[0060] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a control method for a multifunctional water heater provided in this application embodiment is shown below. Figure 2 The control method for a multifunctional water heater provided in this application embodiment specifically includes the following steps:

[0061] S1: In response to the mode selection operation, determine the current operating mode of the multi-functional water heater and determine the priority operating function under the current operating mode; wherein, the current operating mode is an operating mode that simultaneously operates the hot water production function and the heating function or an operating mode that simultaneously operates the hot water production function and the cooling function, and the priority operating function is used to describe the function that the user expects to operate first under the current operating mode.

[0062] Specifically, when a user controls the multi-functional water heater, a mode selection operation is performed. Based on the user's mode selection operation, the current operating mode of the multi-functional water heater is determined, and the priority function to be operated under the current operating mode is determined.

[0063] In one feasible embodiment of this application, the mode selection operation can be performed on the wired controller of the multi-functional water heater. That is, the user can determine the current operating mode of the multi-functional water heater by selecting the corresponding mode button on the wired controller, and determine the desired operating function of the multi-functional water heater to be implemented in the current operating mode (i.e., determine the preferred operating function).

[0064] The current operating mode can be either simultaneous hot water production and heating, in which the multi-functional water heater's module provides circulating refrigerant to the hot water tank and underfloor heating coils; or simultaneous hot water production and cooling, again in which the module provides circulating refrigerant to the hot water tank and fan coil units. It's understandable that a multi-functional water heater cannot simultaneously operate in both heating and cooling modes. Firstly, this mode is meaningless in practical applications; secondly, based on… Figure 1 The provided piping diagram shows that, since the two-way valve can only be open or closed, the working module can only provide circulating refrigerant to any one of the external devices in the underfloor heating coil or fan coil unit.

[0065] The priority operation function describes the function that the user expects to operate first in the current operating mode. When a multi-functional water heater is running two functions simultaneously, the user can set one of the functions to be prioritized. The function that needs to be prioritized is called the priority operation function. For example, if the current operating mode is to run both hot water and cooling functions simultaneously, and the user wants to take a hot shower, then the hot water function can be set as the priority operation function.

[0066] S2: Obtain the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature; wherein, the first operating temperature is used to describe the operation of the hot water function, and the second operating temperature is used to describe the operation of the heating / cooling function;

[0067] Specifically, after determining the current operating mode and the priority operating function under the current operating mode, a first operating temperature and a second operating temperature are obtained. The first operating temperature is used to describe the working status of the hot water function, and the second operating temperature is used to describe the working status of the heating / cooling function.

[0068] In one feasible embodiment of this application, the first operating temperature can be the outlet temperature of the hot water tank, and the second operating temperature can be the outlet temperature of the underfloor heating coil or the outlet temperature of the fan coil unit. It is understood that when the second operating temperature is the outlet temperature of the underfloor heating coil, the operation of the heating function can be described, and when the second operating temperature is the outlet temperature of the fan coil unit, the operation of the cooling function can be described.

[0069] Therefore, when the current operating mode of the multi-functional water heater is to simultaneously operate the hot water and heating functions, the second operating temperature is the outlet water temperature of the underfloor heating coil; when the current operating mode of the multi-functional water heater is to simultaneously operate the hot water and cooling functions, the second operating temperature is the outlet water temperature of the fan coil unit.

[0070] S3: Allocate the first quantity of all working modules according to the current operating mode, the priority operating function under the current operating mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, so that the working modules can prioritize the priority operating function;

[0071] Specifically, since the priority operation function describes the functions that the user expects to operate first in the current operation mode, the first operating temperature describes the operation of the hot water function, and the second operating temperature describes the operation of the heating / cooling function, allocating all working modules according to the current operation mode, the priority operation function in the current operation mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature is actually based on user needs and actual operation conditions.

[0072] In one feasible embodiment of this application, when the priority operation function is hot water production, a first quantity allocation is performed on all working modules according to the current operating mode, the priority operation function under the current operating mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, including:

[0073] Calculate the first temperature difference between the first operating temperature and the first target temperature, and calculate the second temperature difference between the second operating temperature and the second target temperature; wherein, the first target temperature is the target temperature for the hot water function, and the second target temperature is the target temperature for the heating or cooling function.

[0074] The number of working modules that currently meet the priority execution function is calculated using the first allocation formula; whereby the first allocation formula is:

[0075]

[0076] Where N1 is the number of working modules that currently meet the priority operation function calculated by the first allocation formula, N2 is the number of working modules that currently meet other operation functions calculated by the first allocation formula, N is the total number of working modules, Δt1 is the first temperature difference, Δt2 is the second temperature difference, K1 is the set first proportional coefficient, and f() is the round-up function.

[0077] Specifically, the target temperature is the target value that the function needs to achieve. The target temperature is set by the user. The target temperature includes a first target temperature and a second target temperature. The first target temperature is the target temperature for the hot water function, which can be the water temperature that the user expects to heat the hot water to. The second target temperature is the target temperature for the heating or cooling function, which can be the room temperature that the user expects to adjust the environment to.

[0078] Calculate the first temperature difference between the first operating temperature and the first target temperature, and calculate the second temperature difference between the second operating temperature and the second target temperature. Substitute the first temperature difference and the second temperature difference into the first allocation formula to determine the number of working modules that currently meet the priority operation function and the number of working modules that currently meet other operation functions.

[0079] The first temperature difference can be understood as the distance between the priority operation function and the user's expectations. For the priority operation function, in order to better meet the user's needs, more working modules need to be set up to provide circulating refrigerant to the peripheral devices corresponding to the priority operation function. Therefore, the first allocation formula can be understood as first allocating more working modules to provide circulating refrigerant to the peripheral devices corresponding to the priority operation function. After allocating the working modules to provide circulating refrigerant to the peripheral devices corresponding to the priority operation function, the remaining working modules are then considered to be allocated to provide circulating refrigerant to the peripheral devices corresponding to other operation functions.

[0080] In the above embodiment, the priority function is the hot water production function. Based on the first allocation formula, the number of working modules initially allocated to meet the hot water production function is calculated, for example, 'a' working modules meet the hot water production function. The number of working modules initially allocated to meet the cooling / heating function is also calculated, for example, 'b' working modules meet the hot water production function. At this time, working module 'a' provides circulating refrigerant to the hot water tank, and working module 'b' provides circulating refrigerant to the underfloor heating coils or fan coil units.

[0081] As the multi-functional water heater operates, the first temperature difference and the second temperature difference change, and the distance the multi-functional water heater reaches the user's expected temperature also changes. To better balance the number of working modules currently fulfilling priority functions with the number of working modules currently fulfilling other functions during the operation of the multi-functional water heater, in one feasible embodiment of this application, after calculating the number of working modules currently fulfilling priority functions using a first allocation formula, the method further includes:

[0082] When the current operating mode is to simultaneously operate the hot water production function and the heating function, N1 and N2 are recalculated using the first allocation formula whenever a preset time node is reached, until the first working temperature or the second working temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold.

[0083] Specifically, in the current operating mode where both hot water production and heating functions are running simultaneously, based on the above embodiment, the priority function is hot water production, and the other functions are heating. At this time, whenever a preset time node is reached, N1 and N2 can be recalculated according to the first allocation formula. Based on the new values ​​of N1 and N2, the number of working modules satisfying the hot water production function and the number of working modules satisfying the heating function are reallocated. By reallocating at preset time nodes, the real-time operating status of the multi-functional water heater (reflected in the changes in the first and second temperature differences) can be considered when allocating the number of working modules satisfying the hot water production function and the number of working modules satisfying the heating function.

[0084] In one feasible embodiment of this application, a redistribution can be set to occur every 30 minutes.

[0085] Since it is more difficult to transfer the working module from the peripheral device corresponding to the hot water function to the peripheral device corresponding to the cooling function than to the peripheral device corresponding to the hot water function, the switching cost needs to be considered when the multi-functional water heater is currently operating in the mode of simultaneously running the hot water and cooling functions.

[0086] In one feasible embodiment of this application, after calculating the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function using the first allocation formula, the method further includes:

[0087] When the current operating mode is to simultaneously operate the hot water and cooling functions, each time a preset time node is reached, the number of working modules currently satisfying the priority operation function and the number of working modules currently satisfying other operation functions are calculated using a second allocation formula, until the first or second operating temperature is greater than or equal to a temperature threshold; wherein, the second allocation formula is:

[0088]

[0089] Wherein, N1′ is the number of working modules that currently meet the priority operation function calculated by the second allocation formula, N2′ is the number of working modules that currently meet other operation functions calculated by the second allocation formula, and K2 is the set second proportional coefficient.

[0090] Specifically, the first proportional coefficient describes the difficulty of switching between hot water production and heating functions, and the difficulty of switching between hot water production and heating functions is negatively correlated with the first proportional coefficient; the second proportional coefficient describes the difficulty of switching between hot water production and cooling functions, and the difficulty of switching between hot water production and cooling functions is negatively correlated with the second proportional coefficient; the first proportional coefficient is smaller than the second proportional coefficient.

[0091] It is evident that if the current operating mode is to simultaneously run the hot water and cooling functions, then at each preset time point, the working module will not be transferred from the peripheral device corresponding to the hot water function to the peripheral device corresponding to the cooling function as frequently as possible.

[0092] Based on all the above embodiments, when the priority function is hot water production, the initial number of working modules that currently meet the hot water production function is first determined based on the first allocation formula. The remaining working modules are used to meet other operating functions. After a preset time node is reached, the working modules are redistributed based on the current operating mode. It can be understood that the redistribution of working modules may include multiple times, for example, redistribution every 30 minutes.

[0093] In one feasible embodiment of this application, when the priority operation function is cooling or heating, a first quantity allocation is performed on all working modules based on the current operating mode, the priority operation function under the current operating mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, including:

[0094] Determine the first temperature difference and the second temperature difference;

[0095] The number of working modules that currently meet the priority execution function is calculated using the third allocation formula; where the third allocation formula is:

[0096]

[0097] Where N3 is the number of working modules that currently meet the priority running function calculated by the third allocation formula, and N4 is the number of working modules that currently meet other running functions calculated by the third allocation formula.

[0098] Specifically, when the priority function is cooling or heating, the majority of working modules are prioritized to fulfill either function. The basic structure of the third allocation formula is similar to that of the first allocation formula, and the basic principle is also similar, except that the positions of the first and second temperature differences are interchanged. This ensures that the working modules are prioritized to provide circulating refrigerant to the peripheral devices corresponding to either the heating or cooling functions.

[0099] In one feasible embodiment of this application, after calculating the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function using the third allocation formula, the method further includes:

[0100] When the priority function is heating, N3 and N4 are recalculated using the third allocation formula whenever a preset time node is reached, until the first or second working temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold.

[0101] Specifically, when the priority function is heating, the current operating mode is the simultaneous operation of hot water production and heating. Based on the same redistribution process as the above embodiment where the priority function is hot water production and the current operating mode is the simultaneous operation of hot water production and heating, N3 and N4 are recalculated when the preset time node is reached.

[0102] In one feasible embodiment of this application, after calculating the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function using the third allocation formula, the method further includes:

[0103] When the priority function is cooling, each time a preset time node is reached, the number of working modules currently satisfying the priority function and the number of working modules currently satisfying other operating functions are calculated using the fourth allocation formula, until the first operating temperature or the second operating temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold; wherein, the fourth allocation formula is:

[0104]

[0105] Wherein, N3′ is the number of working modules that currently meet the priority running function, calculated using the fourth allocation formula, and N4′ is the number of working modules that currently meet other running functions, calculated using the fourth allocation formula.

[0106] Specifically, when the priority function is cooling, the current operating mode is the simultaneous operation of hot water production and cooling functions. Based on the same redistribution process as the above embodiment where the priority function is hot water production and the current operating mode is the simultaneous operation of hot water production and cooling functions, considering the difficulty of switching between hot water production mode and cooling mode, when the preset time node is reached, the number of working modules that currently meet the hot water production function and the number of working modules that currently meet the cooling function are recalculated through the fourth allocation formula.

[0107] S4: When the first operating temperature or the second operating temperature is greater than or equal to the preset temperature threshold, the number of all working modules is allocated in the second way according to the current operating mode, the priority operating function in the current operating mode, the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature, so that the working modules can simultaneously satisfy the priority operating function and other operating functions in the current operating mode.

[0108] Specifically, in the aforementioned steps, by allocating more working modules to peripheral devices corresponding to priority operation functions, user needs are fully met during the aforementioned operation phase. When the first or second operating temperature is greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold, it is necessary to allocate more working modules to meet the needs of other users, so that the multi-functional water heater can operate more evenly.

[0109] In one feasible embodiment of this application, the preset temperature threshold can be set to P% of the first target temperature or P% of the second target temperature. In some practical applications, P is 10. It is understood that if the first operating temperature is used as the criterion for determining whether a second quantity allocation is needed, the preset temperature threshold is P% of the first target temperature; if the second operating temperature is used as the criterion for determining whether a second quantity allocation is needed, the preset temperature threshold is P% of the second target temperature.

[0110] In one feasible embodiment of this application, a second quantity allocation is performed on all working modules based on the current operating mode, the priority operating function in the current operating mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, including:

[0111] The first operating time is determined based on the number of working modules that currently meet the hot water production function, and the second operating time is determined based on the number of working modules that currently meet the heating / cooling functions; wherein, the first operating time is the time required for the first working temperature to reach the first target temperature, and the second operating time is the time required for the second working temperature to reach the second target temperature;

[0112] The number of working modules that meet the hot water production function is recalculated using the fifth allocation formula, and the number of working modules that meet the heating / cooling functions is also calculated; the fifth allocation formula is as follows:

[0113]

[0114] Wherein, N5 is the number of working modules that meet the hot water production function, recalculated using the fifth allocation formula, and N6 is the number of working modules that meet the heating / cooling functions, recalculated using the third allocation formula.

[0115] Specifically, the first operating time is the time required for the first working temperature to reach the first target temperature, and the second operating time is the time required for the second working temperature to reach the second target temperature. The first operating time is determined based on the number of working modules that currently meet the hot water production function, and the second operating time is determined based on the number of working modules that currently meet the heating / cooling functions.

[0116] In this embodiment, it can be determined how long it will take to reach the target temperature if the current allocation method is maintained. The working modules are redistributed based on the first running time and the second running time, so that the multi-functional water heater can operate in a more balanced manner after meeting the user's needs.

[0117] The technical solution provided in this application describes user needs based on the current operating mode and the priority operating functions within that mode, and describes the actual operation of each function based on a first operating temperature and a second operating temperature. A first allocation of quantities is performed on all working modules with reference to the current operating mode, the priority operating functions within that mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, while simultaneously considering user needs and the actual operation of each function, prioritizing the fulfillment of user needs. If the first or second operating temperature is greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold, it indicates that the current user needs are basically met. A second allocation of quantities is then performed on all working modules based on the current operating mode, the priority operating functions within that mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, resulting in a more balanced distribution of working modules while simultaneously satisfying user needs and other requirements.

[0118] The technical solution provided by the embodiments of this application enables a reasonable allocation of multiple working modules, ensuring that user needs are met first while also ensuring that other needs besides user needs are well met.

[0119] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a multi-functional water heater provided in an embodiment of this application. The multi-functional water heater provided in this embodiment can simultaneously achieve hot water production and heating functions, or simultaneously achieve hot water production and cooling functions. (Refer to...) Figure 3 Multifunctional water heaters include:

[0120] Peripheral equipment is used to realize the functions of hot water production, heating, or cooling.

[0121] Multiple working modules are used to circulate refrigerant to peripheral devices, enabling the peripheral devices to perform hot water production, heating, or cooling functions; wherein, by changing the number of working modules acting on the peripheral devices, the operating conditions of the peripheral devices in performing the aforementioned hot water production, heating, or cooling functions are changed;

[0122] A control board is used to implement a control method for a multifunctional water heater as described in any of the above method embodiments.

[0123] 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.

[0124] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the present invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features claimed herein.

Claims

1. A control method for a multi-functional water heater, characterized in that, The multi-functional water heater includes multiple working modules. The multi-functional water heater simultaneously performs hot water production and heating functions, or simultaneously performs hot water production and cooling functions. The working modules are used to meet different operating functions of the multi-functional water heater. The method includes: In response to the mode selection operation, the current operating mode of the multi-functional water heater is determined, and the priority operating function under the current operating mode is determined; wherein, the current operating mode is an operating mode that simultaneously operates the hot water production function and the heating function or an operating mode that simultaneously operates the hot water production function and the cooling function, and the priority operating function is used to describe the function that the user expects to operate first under the current operating mode; A first operating temperature and a second operating temperature are obtained; wherein, the first operating temperature is used to describe the operation of the hot water function, and the second operating temperature is used to describe the operation of the heating function / the cooling function. Based on the current operating mode, the priority operating function under the current operating mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, a first quantity allocation is made for all the working modules so that the working modules prioritize the priority operating function. When the first operating temperature or the second operating temperature is greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold, a second quantity allocation is performed on all the working modules according to the current operating mode, the priority operating function in the current operating mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, so that the working modules simultaneously satisfy the priority operating function and other operating functions in the current operating mode.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the priority operation function is the hot water production function, a first quantity allocation is performed on all the working modules according to the current operation mode, the priority operation function under the current operation mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, including: Calculate a first temperature difference between the first operating temperature and the first target temperature, and calculate a second temperature difference between the second operating temperature and the second target temperature; wherein the first target temperature is the target temperature of the hot water function, and the second target temperature is the target temperature of the heating function or the cooling function; The number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function is calculated using a first allocation formula; wherein, the first allocation formula is: Wherein, N1 is the number of working modules that currently meet the priority operation function calculated by the first allocation formula, N2 is the number of working modules that currently meet the other operation functions calculated by the first allocation formula, N is the total number of working modules, Δt1 is the first temperature difference, Δt2 is the second temperature difference, K1 is the set first proportional coefficient, and f() is the round-up function.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, After calculating the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function using the first allocation formula, the method further includes: When the current operating mode is the simultaneous operation of the hot water production function and the heating function, N1 and N2 are recalculated using the first allocation formula whenever a preset time node is reached, until the first working temperature or the second working temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, After calculating the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function using the first allocation formula, the method further includes: When the current operating mode is to simultaneously operate the hot water production function and the cooling function, each time the preset time node is reached, the number of working modules currently satisfying the priority operation function and the number of working modules currently satisfying the other operation functions are calculated using a second allocation formula, until the first operating temperature or the second operating temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold; wherein, the second allocation formula is: Wherein, N1′ is the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function calculated by the second allocation formula, N2′ is the number of working modules that currently satisfy the other operation functions calculated by the second allocation formula, and K2 is the set second proportional coefficient.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first proportional coefficient is used to describe the difficulty of switching between the hot water function and the heating function, and the difficulty of switching between the hot water function and the heating function is negatively correlated with the first proportional coefficient; The second proportional coefficient is used to describe the difficulty of switching between the hot water function and the cooling function. The difficulty of switching between the hot water function and the cooling function is negatively correlated with the second proportional coefficient. The first proportional coefficient is smaller than the second proportional coefficient.

6. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the priority operation function is the cooling function or the heating function, a first quantity allocation is performed on all the working modules according to the current operation mode, the priority operation function in the current operation mode, the first operating temperature, and the second operating temperature, including: Determine the first temperature difference and the second temperature difference; The number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function is calculated using a third allocation formula; wherein the third allocation formula is: Wherein, N3 is the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function, calculated by the third allocation formula, and N4 is the number of working modules that currently satisfy the other operation functions, calculated by the third allocation formula.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, After calculating the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function using the third allocation formula, the method further includes: When the priority function is the heating function, N3 and N4 are recalculated using the third allocation formula whenever a preset time node is reached, until the first operating temperature or the second operating temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold.

8. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, After calculating the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function using the third allocation formula, the method further includes: When the priority operation function is the cooling function, each time a preset time node is reached, the number of working modules currently satisfying the priority operation function and the number of working modules currently satisfying other operation functions are calculated using a fourth allocation formula, until the first operating temperature or the second operating temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold; wherein, the fourth allocation formula is: Wherein, N3′ is the number of working modules that currently satisfy the priority operation function calculated by the fourth allocation formula, N4′ is the number of working modules that currently satisfy the other operation functions calculated by the fourth allocation formula, and K2 is the set second proportional coefficient.

9. A multi-functional water heater, characterized in that, The multi-functional water heater simultaneously performs hot water production and heating functions, or simultaneously performs hot water production and cooling functions, and the multi-functional water heater includes: Peripheral equipment, which is used to realize the hot water production function, the heating function, or the cooling function; Multiple working modules are provided, each module circulating refrigerant to the peripheral device to enable the peripheral device to perform the hot water production function, the heating function, or the cooling function; wherein, the operation of the peripheral device in performing the hot water production function, the heating function, or the cooling function is changed by changing the number of working modules acting on the peripheral device. A control motherboard, the control motherboard being used to implement the control method of the multifunctional water heater as described in any one of claims 1-8.

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