Hot water unit and hot water unit control method and system

Abstract

The invention discloses a hot water unit and a hot water unit control method and system, and relates to the field of water heaters, the hot water unit comprises a heating host, a circulating water tank, a pressure-bearing water tank, a first water pump, a second water pump, a first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor, a third temperature sensor and a control module; the heating main machine comprises a main water tank and a heating device; through the modular design of the main water tank, the circulating water tank, the pressure-bearing water tank and the heating device, expansion and upgrading of the unit are facilitated, the waiting time of a user is shortened through rapid cyclic utilization of water in the main water tank and the circulating water tank, meanwhile, the stability of hot water supply is guaranteed, and water temperature fluctuation is avoided. The control module dynamically adjusts the operation states of the heating device and the water pump according to the temperature difference, and excessive heating or unnecessary circulation is avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of water heaters, and in particular to a water heater unit, a method and a system for controlling the water heater unit. Background Art

[0002] In commercial water heater systems, open tanks are widely used due to their ease of installation, ease of expansion and low cost. However, open tanks are open to the atmosphere and are susceptible to the intrusion of dust and impurities, which can lead to deterioration of water quality, especially in the open part of the tank that is in contact with the atmosphere. Since open tanks cannot withstand high pressure, they usually need to rely on a water supply pump to supply water. This means that the system may require more complex pumping and piping design to ensure that water can be effectively delivered even without sufficient static pressure. Summary of the invention

[0003] The main purpose of the present invention is to provide a hot water unit, a hot water unit control method and a system. Through the modular design of the main water tank, the circulating water tank, the pressure water tank and the heating device, the expansion and upgrading of the unit are facilitated, and the energy utilization efficiency is improved by recycling the water in the main water tank and the circulating water tank. Through real-time monitoring by the temperature sensor, the control module dynamically adjusts the operating status of the heating device and the water pump according to the temperature difference to avoid overheating or unnecessary circulation. Through the design of the circulating water tank and the pressure water tank, hot water can circulate quickly in the system, reducing the user's waiting time, while ensuring the stability of the hot water supply and avoiding water temperature fluctuations.

[0004] In order to achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of the present application provide the following technical solutions: According to a first aspect of an embodiment of the present application, a hot water unit is provided, the hot water unit comprising: a heating host, a circulating water tank, a pressure water tank, a first water pump, a second water pump, a first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor, a third temperature sensor and a control module; the heating host comprises a main water tank and a heating device; The first water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the water inlet of the main water tank, the second water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the water outlet of the main water tank, and the second water pump is arranged between the first water inlet of the circulating water tank and the water inlet of the main water tank; The first water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected to the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, the second water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank, and the first water pump is arranged between the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank; The first temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the liquid in the main water tank; the second temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the liquid in the pressure water tank close to the second water outlet of the pressure water tank; the third temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the liquid in the circulating water tank close to the second water outlet of the circulating water tank; The control module is used to adjust the working state of the heating device and the first water pump and the second water pump according to the difference between the liquid temperature detected by the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor and the third temperature sensor and the preset temperature; The heating device is used to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank.

[0005] Optionally, the control module is used to control the second water pump to start for a preset time period when the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is lower than a first preset temperature, so that liquid circulates between the circulating water tank and the main water tank.

[0006] Optionally, the control module is used to control the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature after the second water pump is turned on for a preset period of time, when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, and the second preset temperature is higher than the first preset temperature.

[0007] Optionally, the control module is also used to control the first water pump to turn on when the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, so that the liquid in the pressure water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, forcing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressure water tank.

[0008] Optionally, the control module is further configured to control the first water pump to stop when the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is greater than or equal to a first preset temperature and the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature.

[0009] Optionally, the control module is also used to control the heating device to stop heating when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is greater than a third preset temperature or when the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is greater than the second preset temperature, and the third preset temperature is greater than the second preset temperature.

[0010] Optionally, it also includes a secondary pressure water tank, the second water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank through the secondary pressure water tank, the second water inlet of the secondary pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank, and the first water inlet of the secondary pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the pressure water tank.

[0011] Optionally, the third water inlet of the pressure water tank is used to be connected to a water supply pipe, and the second water inlet of the circulating water tank is used to be connected to a drain pipe.

[0012] Optionally, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the circulating water tank are located at opposite ends of the circulating water tank; and / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the pressure water tank are located at opposite ends of the pressure water tank; and / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the circulating water tank are respectively located at the lower end and the upper end of the circulating water tank; and / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the pressure water tank are respectively located at the lower end and the upper end of the pressure water tank.

[0013] According to a second aspect of an embodiment of the present application, a method for controlling a water heater unit is provided, which is applied to the water heater unit described in the first aspect, and the method includes: According to the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being lower than the first preset temperature, controlling the second water pump to start for a preset time; After the second water pump is turned on for a preset time, if the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, controlling the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature, wherein the second preset temperature is higher than the first preset temperature; According to the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor being lower than the first preset temperature, the first water pump is controlled to be turned on, so that the liquid in the pressure water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, and the liquid in the circulating water tank is forced to flow toward the pressure water tank; The first water pump is controlled to stop according to the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor being greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, or the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being less than the first preset temperature.

[0014] Optionally, controlling the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature comprises: Controlling the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank; The heating device is controlled to stop heating according to the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor being greater than a third preset temperature or the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being greater than the second preset temperature, the third preset temperature being greater than the second preset temperature.

[0015] According to a third aspect of an embodiment of the present application, a water heater control system is provided, which is applied to the water heater described in the first aspect, and the system includes: A water pump control module, configured to control the second water pump to start for a preset time period according to the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being lower than the first preset temperature; A heating device control module is used to control the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature greater than the first preset temperature after the second water pump is turned on for a preset period of time and when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature; based on the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor being less than the first preset temperature, control the first water pump to turn on so that the liquid in the pressure water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, forcing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressure water tank; based on the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor being greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, or the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being less than the first preset temperature, control the first water pump to stop.

[0016] According to a fourth aspect of an embodiment of the present application, an electronic device is provided, comprising: a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the processor executes the computer program to implement the method described in the first aspect above.

[0017] According to a fifth aspect of an embodiment of the present application, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which computer-readable instructions are stored. The computer-readable instructions can be executed by a processor to implement the method described in the first aspect above.

[0018] In summary, the embodiments of the present application provide a hot water unit, a hot water unit control method and a system, wherein the hot water unit comprises: a heating host, a circulating water tank, a pressure water tank, a first water pump, a second water pump, a first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor, a third temperature sensor and a control module; the heating host comprises a main water tank and a heating device; the first water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the water inlet of the main water tank, the second water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the water outlet of the main water tank, and the second water pump is arranged between the first water inlet of the circulating water tank and the water inlet of the main water tank; the first water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected to the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, the second water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank, and the first water pump is arranged between the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank; the first temperature sensor The device is used to detect the temperature of the liquid in the main water tank; the second temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the liquid in the pressure water tank near the second water inlet of the pressure water tank; the third temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the liquid in the circulating water tank near the second water inlet of the circulating water tank; the control module is used to adjust the working state of the heating device and the first water pump and the second water pump according to the difference between the liquid temperature detected by the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor and the third temperature sensor and the preset temperature; the heating device is used to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank; the modular design of the main water tank, the circulating water tank, the pressure water tank and the heating device facilitates the expansion and upgrading of the unit, and reduces the user waiting time by quickly recycling the water in the main water tank and the circulating water tank, while ensuring the stability of the hot water supply. Through real-time monitoring by the temperature sensor, the control module dynamically adjusts the operating state of the heating device and the water pump according to the temperature difference to avoid overheating or unnecessary circulation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without paying creative work.

[0020] The structures, proportions, sizes, etc. illustrated in this specification are only used to match the contents disclosed in the specification so as to facilitate understanding and reading by persons familiar with the technology. They are not used to limit the conditions under which the present invention can be implemented, and therefore have no substantial technical significance. Any structural modification, change in proportion or adjustment of size shall still fall within the scope of the technical contents disclosed in the present invention without affecting the effects and purposes that can be achieved by the present invention.

[0021] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a hot water unit provided in an embodiment of the present application; Figure 2 A structural diagram of a hot water unit provided in an embodiment of the present application; Figure 3 A schematic flow chart of a hot water unit control method provided in an embodiment of the present application; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of host control logic provided for an embodiment of the present application; Figure 5 A block diagram of a hot water unit control system provided in an embodiment of the present application; Figure 6 A structural diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application is shown; Figure 7 A diagram showing a computer-readable storage medium provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0022] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0024] It should be noted that all directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of the present invention are only used to explain the relative position relationship, movement status, etc. between the components under a certain specific posture (as shown in the accompanying drawings). If the specific posture changes, the directional indication will also change accordingly.

[0025] In addition, in the present invention, descriptions such as "first", "second", etc. are only used for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Therefore, the features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of the features. In the description of the present invention, the meaning of "plurality" is at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise clearly and specifically defined.

[0026] In the present invention, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "connection", "fixation", etc. should be understood in a broad sense. For example, "fixation" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, it can be the internal connection of two elements or the interaction relationship between two elements, unless otherwise clearly defined. For ordinary technicians in this field, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0027] In addition, the technical solutions between the various embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other, but it must be based on the fact that ordinary technicians in the field can implement it. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be deemed that such combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection required by the present invention.

[0028] Figure 1 A hot water unit provided in an embodiment of the present application is shown, and the hot water unit includes: a heating host, a circulating water tank, a pressure water tank, a first water pump, a second water pump, a first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor, a third temperature sensor and a control module; the heating host includes a main water tank and a heating device. The first water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the water inlet of the main water tank, the second water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the water outlet of the main water tank, and the second water pump is arranged between the first water inlet of the circulating water tank and the water inlet of the main water tank; the first water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected to the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, the second water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank, and the first water pump is arranged between the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank; the first temperature sensor is used to detect the liquid temperature in the main water tank; the second temperature sensor is used to detect the liquid temperature in the pressure water tank near the second water inlet of the pressure water tank; the third temperature sensor is used to detect the liquid temperature in the circulating water tank near the second water inlet of the circulating water tank; the control module is used to adjust the working state of the heating device and the first water pump and the second water pump according to the difference between the liquid temperature detected by the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor and the third temperature sensor and the preset temperature; the heating device is used to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank.

[0029] The heating device is used to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank. By accurately controlling the heating process, energy waste can be avoided while ensuring the comfort of hot water supply. The problems of high energy consumption, large water temperature fluctuation, slow response speed and insufficient safety that are common in traditional hot water systems are solved.

[0030] From the perspective of system structure, the hot water unit adopts a three-stage water tank design, including the main water tank of the heating host, the circulating water tank and the pressure water tank. This multi-stage structure cooperates with the first water pump and the second water pump to achieve efficient circulation and on-demand heating of the water body. The temperature monitoring system consists of three temperature sensors: the first temperature sensor monitors the temperature of the core heating area of ​​the main water tank, the second temperature sensor detects the outlet water temperature of the pressure water tank, and the third temperature sensor is responsible for monitoring the outlet temperature of the circulating water tank. This all-round temperature monitoring network provides accurate data support for intelligent control.

[0031] In terms of control logic, the system adopts a phased, multi-condition intelligent judgment mechanism. When the outlet temperature of the circulating water tank is lower than the preset value, the system first starts the second water pump for internal water circulation instead of heating it immediately. This "circulation priority" strategy effectively avoids unnecessary energy waste. After completing the cycle of the preset time, the system will conduct a secondary confirmation through the main water tank temperature sensor, and will only start the heating device if the water temperature still does not meet the standard. This step-by-step judgment method not only ensures heating efficiency, but also minimizes energy consumption.

[0032] The system's safety mechanism is also worth paying attention to. By setting multiple temperature thresholds (first preset temperature, second preset temperature, and third preset temperature) and coordinating cross-validation of multiple sensors, the system can effectively prevent safety hazards such as overheating. In particular, when the temperature of the main water tank exceeds the third preset temperature (the highest safety threshold), the system will immediately cut off the heating device to ensure safe use. This multiple protection design greatly improves the reliability and safety of the system.

[0033] From the perspective of practicality and scalability, the hot water unit adopts a modular design, and the layout of each component is reasonable, which is easy to install and maintain. The inlet and outlet of the circulating water tank and the pressure water tank are designed to be opposed to each other, making full use of the principle of heat convection and improving the heat exchange efficiency. In addition, the system also supports the expansion of capacity by adding a secondary pressure water tank, which can flexibly adapt to water needs of different scales.

[0034] In a possible implementation, the control module is used to control the second water pump to start for a preset time period when the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is lower than a first preset temperature, so that liquid circulates between the circulating water tank and the main water tank.

[0035] This implementation method embodies the energy-saving concept of "circulation before heating". When the system detects that the water temperature in the circulating water tank is insufficient, it does not directly start the heating device, but first drives the water circulation through the water pump to fully mix the water between the main water tank and the circulating water tank. This design can effectively utilize the waste heat that may exist in the main water tank and avoid ineffective consumption of energy. The preset time setting ensures the adequacy of the circulation and prevents excessive operation of the water pump.

[0036] In a possible embodiment, the control module is used to control the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature after the second water pump is turned on for a preset period of time, when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, and the second preset temperature is higher than the first preset temperature.

[0037] The hot water unit of the present application adopts an innovative staged temperature detection and control method, and realizes energy consumption optimization and system reliability improvement by setting the cooperative working logic of the first temperature sensor and the third temperature sensor. The specific control process is as follows: Phase 1: Circulation trigger and preliminary detection: When the third temperature sensor detects that the temperature of the circulating water tank outlet is lower than the first preset temperature (such as 40°C), the control module immediately starts the second water pump and keeps it running for a preset time (such as 30-120 seconds). In this phase, the water in the main water tank and the circulating water tank is fully mixed through forced circulation to eliminate the local low temperature phenomenon caused by thermal stratification; a uniform water environment is provided for subsequent temperature detection to avoid misjudgment caused by differences in measurement positions.

[0038] The second stage: review detection and heating decision: After the second water pump completes the circulation of the preset time, the control module performs a second detection of the water temperature of the main water tank through the first temperature sensor: if the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is ≥ the first preset temperature, it indicates that the circulation has made the system water temperature balanced to meet the standard, and there is no need to start the heating device, and directly enter the insulation mode; if the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is < the first preset temperature, the heating device is started to heat the water to the second preset temperature (for example, 55°C).

[0039] In a possible embodiment, the control module is also used to control the first water pump to turn on when the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, so that the liquid in the pressure water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, forcing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressure water tank.

[0040] When the second temperature sensor detects that the temperature of the water outlet of the pressure water tank is insufficient, the system will start the first water pump to pump the low-temperature liquid in the pressure water tank into the circulating water tank. The reverse flow design is adopted to achieve rapid water replenishment through pressure difference, while pushing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressure water tank to form a dynamic balance. This design not only maintains the temperature gradient of the system, but also ensures the stability of the water supply pressure, thereby improving the heating capacity during peak hours. The system has set up multiple safety protection mechanisms, including operating time limit and temperature drop monitoring. These measures significantly reduce the system failure rate.

[0041] In a possible implementation manner, the control module is further configured to control the first water pump to stop when the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is greater than or equal to a first preset temperature and the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature.

[0042] When the outlet temperature of the pressure water tank (monitored by the second temperature sensor) reaches or exceeds the first preset temperature, it indicates that the hot water supply in the area has met the requirements. At this time, stopping the first water pump can avoid energy waste; secondly, when the outlet temperature of the circulating water tank (monitored by the third temperature sensor) is still lower than the preset value, stopping the water pump can prevent the overall temperature of the system from dropping due to continuous injection of cold water, ensuring the stability of heating; most importantly, this dual condition judgment mechanism creatively solves the control logic conflict problem that may occur in traditional systems. By requiring the detection results of the two temperature sensors to meet specific conditions at the same time before executing the stop operation, the system can respond to actual temperature changes in a timely manner and effectively avoid malfunctions caused by false alarms from a single sensor. This technical solution also enhances the fault tolerance of the system. When a sensor fails, the other sensor can still provide protective judgment to ensure that the system will not be completely out of control. This intelligent stop condition setting enables the hot water unit to maintain an efficient and stable operating state under complex working conditions, which is particularly suitable for commercial application scenarios with large fluctuations in water supply load.

[0043] In a possible implementation, the control module is also used to control the heating device to stop heating when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is greater than a third preset temperature or when the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is greater than the second preset temperature, and the third preset temperature is greater than the second preset temperature.

[0044] When the first temperature sensor detects that the temperature of the main water tank exceeds the third preset temperature (safety threshold), heating is stopped immediately. This design mainly solves the risk of equipment overheating. By setting a safety threshold higher than the normal operating temperature (second preset temperature), the system not only ensures sufficient heating capacity, but also provides a safety buffer for extreme situations. Secondly, when the third temperature sensor detects that the outlet water temperature of the circulating water tank exceeds the second preset temperature (working target value), heating is stopped. This condition realizes precise on-demand heating. Compared with traditional solutions, this design creatively uses the outlet temperature of the circulating water tank as the control basis, which can more accurately reflect the actual water temperature demand and avoid energy waste caused by local overheating of the main water tank.

[0045] Through reasonable temperature threshold grading settings (first preset < second preset < third preset) and the difference range of each level threshold (for example, the temperature difference between the second and third presets is controlled at 10-15°C), the system can avoid the impact of too frequent protection actions on the user experience and ensure rapid response in abnormal situations. This intelligent temperature gradient management enables the device to automatically adapt to the working requirements under different ambient temperatures and water quality conditions.

[0046] In a possible embodiment, it also includes a secondary pressure water tank, the second water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank through the secondary pressure water tank, the second water inlet of the secondary pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank, and the first water inlet of the secondary pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the pressure water tank.

[0047] This hot water unit introduces a two-stage pressure water tank structure, which improves system performance through a specific pipe connection method. The second water inlet of the pressure water tank is directly connected to the first water inlet of the secondary pressure water tank, and the second water inlet of the secondary pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank. This series connection creatively establishes a stepped pressure transmission channel. In actual operation, when the water level of the main pressure water tank drops, the secondary pressure water tank can immediately respond to the pressure change and replenish water.

[0048] In a possible implementation, the third water inlet of the pressure water tank is used to be connected to a water supply pipe, and the second water inlet of the circulating water tank is used to be connected to a drainage pipe.

[0049] In this hot water unit system, the drain pipe is the hot water outlet pipe, which is used to supply hot water with a stable temperature to the user end. The drain pipe is directly connected to the second water outlet of the circulating water tank (located in the high-temperature area at the upper end of the water tank), and through the thermal circulation mechanism inside the system, it continuously outputs hot water that meets the set temperature to the water user terminal.

[0050] In a possible embodiment, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the circulating water tank are located at opposite ends of the circulating water tank; and / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the pressure water tank are located at opposite ends of the pressure water tank; and / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the circulating water tank are respectively located at the lower end and the upper end of the circulating water tank; and / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the pressure water tank are respectively located at the lower end and the upper end of the pressure water tank.

[0051] The water heater and control method provided in the embodiments of the present application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] Figure 2 The schematic diagram of the hot water unit structure is shown, and the hot water unit includes: a heating host, a circulating water tank, a pressure water tank group, a first water pump, a second water pump, a third temperature sensor, a first temperature sensor, and a second temperature sensor. The heating host includes a main water tank and a heating device. The pressure water tank is used to store water. The water inlet pipe of the pressure water tank is located at the bottom, and the water outlet pipe is located at the top to ensure that the hot water can flow out smoothly. The number of pressure water tanks is not less than one, and it can be configured according to engineering requirements to achieve stratified heating of hot water. If there are multiple water tanks, they are installed in series. Figure 2 The pressure water tank group shown includes a first pressure water tank, a second pressure water tank, a third pressure water tank and a fourth pressure water tank.

[0053] The first water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the water inlet of the main water tank, the second water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the water outlet of the main water tank, and the second water pump is arranged between the first water inlet of the circulating water tank and the water inlet of the main water tank. The first water inlet of the fourth pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the third pressure water tank, and the second water inlet of the fourth pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank. The first water inlet of the third pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the second pressure water tank. The first water inlet of the second pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the first pressure water tank, the first water inlet of the first pressure water tank is connected to the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, and the first water pump is arranged between the first water inlet of the first pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank. The third water inlet of the circulating water tank serves as a reflux interface of the pressure water tank group, and forms a closed loop with the primary pressure water tank through the first water pump.

[0054] The pressure water tank group (the first to fourth pressure water tanks) of the hot water unit forms a pressure buffer channel through a series pipeline: the first pressure water tank receives cold water through the third water inlet connected to the water supply pipe, and the water flows through the second and third pressure water tanks to the fourth pressure water tank in turn, and then flows back to the circulating water tank through its second water inlet. All pressure water tanks adopt the layout of "water inlet at the lower end and water outlet at the upper end", relying on gravity and pressure difference to achieve pumpless flow. The third temperature sensor installed at the outlet of the fourth pressure water tank monitors the temperature of the return hot water in real time. When the detection value is lower than the set threshold, the control module starts the first water pump to replenish cold water from the water supply pipe; the drainage pipe at the upper end of the circulating water tank is used as the final hot water output port, and its temperature is monitored by another third temperature sensor to adjust the working state of the heating device. The system realizes a stepped pressure distribution through the four-stage water tank series connection to ensure stable water output.

[0055] In a possible implementation, the third water outlet of the first pressure water tank is used to connect to a water supply pipe (external water source), and the second water outlet of the circulating water tank is used to connect to a drain pipe (external user end) to provide hot water with a stable temperature.

[0056] In a possible implementation, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the circulating water tank are located at opposite ends of the circulating water tank; and / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the fourth pressure water tank are located at opposite ends of the fourth pressure water tank. And / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the third pressure water tank are located at opposite ends of the third pressure water tank. And / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the second pressure water tank are located at opposite ends of the second pressure water tank. And / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the first pressure water tank are located at opposite ends of the first pressure water tank.

[0057] Exemplarily, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the circulating water tank are respectively located at the lower end and the upper end of the circulating water tank; and / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the first pressure water tank are respectively located at the lower end and the upper end of the first pressure water tank.

[0058] The heating device is used to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank.

[0059] The first temperature sensor is installed in the first pressure water tank to monitor the water temperature in the water supply pipe; the second temperature sensor is installed in the second pressure water tank to monitor the water temperature in the pressure water tank group; the third temperature sensor is installed in the circulating water tank to monitor the water temperature in the circulating water tank. The control module controls the start and stop of the water pump and the working state of the heating device according to the data of these sensors.

[0060] In a possible implementation, the control module may include components such as a two-way valve, which are used to automatically adjust the working states of the water pump and the heating device according to the reading of the temperature sensor.

[0061] During the temperature control process, when the third temperature sensor detects that the water temperature in the circulating water tank is lower than the first preset temperature, the control module will start the second water pump to circulate the water in the circulating water tank and the water in the heating host to increase the water temperature. After the second water pump runs for a preset time, if the first temperature sensor detects that the water temperature in the main water tank is still lower than the first preset temperature, the control module will start the heating device to heat the water temperature to the second preset temperature. When the second temperature sensor detects that the water temperature in the second pressure water tank reaches or exceeds the first preset temperature, the control module will stop the first water pump to avoid overheating and energy waste. If the third temperature sensor detects that the water temperature in the circulating water tank exceeds the second preset temperature, the control module will also stop the heating device to prevent the water temperature from being too high. In addition, if the first temperature sensor detects that the water temperature in the main water tank exceeds the third preset temperature (safety threshold), the control module will immediately stop heating to prevent the device from overheating. At the same time, if the third temperature sensor detects that the water temperature in the circulating water tank is lower than the first preset temperature, the control module will also stop the first water pump to prevent the overall temperature of the system from dropping. This staged temperature detection and control method enables the hot water unit to achieve both energy consumption optimization and system reliability improvement, and is particularly suitable for commercial application scenarios with large fluctuations in water supply load.

[0062] For example, the hot water unit adopts a staged temperature control strategy: when the third temperature sensor at the outlet of the circulating water tank detects that the water temperature is lower than 40°C (the first preset value), the control module starts the second water pump for 90 seconds to promote water circulation between the main water tank and the circulating water tank. After the cycle is completed, if the first temperature sensor of the main water tank still shows that it is lower than 40°C, the heating device is started to heat it to 60°C (the second preset value). The second temperature sensor of the pressure water tank group monitors the output water temperature in real time, and stops the first water pump when it reaches or exceeds 40°C; if the detection value of the third temperature sensor of the circulating water tank exceeds 60°C, the heating device is stopped synchronously. In terms of safety protection, when the temperature of the main water tank exceeds 70°C (the third preset value), the heating is immediately cut off, and when the temperature of the circulating water tank is unexpectedly lower than 40°C, the first water pump is forced to stop to prevent the system temperature from getting out of control. All judgment conditions are set with time delay verification (such as continuous 10 seconds to meet the standard before action) to avoid false triggering of instantaneous fluctuations.

[0063] Based on the same technical concept, the embodiment of the present application also provides a water heater control method, such as Figure 3 As shown, the method includes: S301: According to the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being lower than the first preset temperature, controlling the second water pump to start for a preset time period; When the third temperature sensor detects that the temperature of the circulating water tank is lower than the first preset temperature, the system determines that hot water needs to be added. The system first uses the hot water that may remain in the pipeline to circulate the hot water in the pipeline to the circulating water tank by turning on the second water pump, and gives priority to using this hot water to meet the demand. Within the preset time, the system observes whether the temperature requirement can be met by circulating the residual hot water. If the hot water in the pipeline has brought the water temperature back to the appropriate range within the delay time, there is no need to start the heating device. By rationally utilizing the hot water in the pipeline, the number of startups and the operating time of the heating device can be reduced.

[0064] S302: After the second water pump is turned on for a preset time, if the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, controlling the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature, where the second preset temperature is higher than the first preset temperature; S303: According to the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor being lower than the first preset temperature, controlling the first water pump to start, so that the liquid in the pressure water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, forcing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressure water tank; S304: Controlling the first water pump to stop according to the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor being greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, or the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being less than the first preset temperature.

[0065] Figure 4 The schematic diagram of the host control logic provided by the embodiment of the present application is shown, which is applied to Figure 1 The hot water unit shown in the figure specifically comprises the following steps: Step 1: Monitor the temperature of the third temperature sensor T1 set on the circulating water tank. When the temperature of the third temperature sensor T1 is lower than the set start-up temperature threshold T_on, the startup condition is met and step 2 is executed; when the temperature of the third temperature sensor T1 is higher than or equal to the set start-up temperature threshold T_on, maintain standby mode and continue to monitor T1.

[0066] Step 2: Start the second water pump (water pump 2), run it for a preset time T_time, and use the hot water remaining in the pipe for preheating.

[0067] Step 3: Detect the temperature of the first temperature sensor T7 set on the heating host. If it is lower than the start-up temperature threshold T_on, start the heating device; if it is higher than or equal to the start-up temperature threshold T_on, wait for T_wait time and then re-execute step 1; Step 4: After the heating device is started, the temperature of the third temperature sensor T1 and the first temperature sensor T7 is continuously monitored. The shutdown condition is determined based on these two temperature values. When the temperature condition meets the preset shutdown threshold, the heating device is controlled to stop running and enter standby mode. The shutdown condition can be T1>T_off, or T7>T_off+△T; T_off is the shutdown temperature threshold, and △T is the shutdown temperature hysteresis.

[0068] Step 5: After the unit is shut down, the temperature of the second temperature sensor T5 set in the pressure water tank is detected. If the temperature of T5 is lower than T_on, the first water pump (water pump 1) and the electric two-way valve are started to promote water circulation between the pressure water tank and the circulating water tank.

[0069] Step 6: When it is detected again that the temperature of T1 is lower than T_on, the first water pump and the electric two-way valve are turned off to prevent cold water from entering the heated water tank and maintain the hot water temperature.

[0070] Step 7: After the first water pump and the electric two-way valve are turned off, the system returns to the standby state and executes step 1, waiting for the next startup condition to be triggered.

[0071] These steps constitute the basic flow of the piping and control method for connecting the circulating water heater to the pressure water tank, ensuring the efficient operation of the system and the stability of the hot water supply.

[0072] In summary, the embodiments of the present application provide a hot water unit and a hot water unit control method, wherein the hot water unit includes: a heating host, a pressure water tank, a heating device, a first water pump, a second water pump, a first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor, a third temperature sensor and a control module; the heating host includes a main water tank and a heating device; the first water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the water inlet of the main water tank, the second water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the water outlet of the main water tank, and the second water pump is arranged between the first water inlet of the circulating water tank and the water inlet of the main water tank; the first water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected to the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, the second water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank, and the first water pump is arranged between the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank; the modular design of the main water tank, the circulating water tank, the pressure water tank and the heating device facilitates the expansion and upgrade of the unit, and the user waiting time is reduced by quickly recycling the water in the main water tank and the circulating water tank, while ensuring the stability of the hot water supply. Through real-time monitoring by the temperature sensor, the control module dynamically adjusts the operating status of the heating device and the water pump according to the temperature difference to avoid overheating or unnecessary circulation.

[0073] Based on the same technical concept, the embodiment of the present application also provides a water heater control system, such as Figure 5 As shown, the system comprises: A water pump control module 501, configured to control the second water pump to start for a preset time period according to the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being lower than the first preset temperature; The heating device control module 502 is used to control the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature greater than the first preset temperature after the second water pump is turned on for a preset period of time and when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature; based on the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor being lower than the first preset temperature, control the first water pump to turn on so that the liquid in the pressure water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, forcing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressure water tank; based on the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor being greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, or the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being lower than the first preset temperature, control the first water pump to stop.

[0074] The present application also provides an electronic device corresponding to the method provided in the above embodiment. Figure 6 , which shows an electronic device diagram provided by some embodiments of the present application. The electronic device 20 may include: a processor 200, a memory 201, a bus 202 and a communication interface 203, wherein the processor 200, the communication interface 203 and the memory 201 are connected via the bus 202; the memory 201 stores a computer program that can be run on the processor 200, and the processor 200 executes the method provided by any of the aforementioned embodiments of the present application when running the computer program.

[0075] The memory 201 may include a high-speed random access memory (RAM), and may also include a non-volatile memory, such as at least one disk memory. The communication connection between the system network element and at least one other network element is realized through at least one physical port (which may be wired or wireless), and the Internet, wide area network, local area network, metropolitan area network, etc. may be used.

[0076] The bus 202 may be an ISA bus, a PCI bus, or an EISA bus, etc. The bus may be divided into an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, etc. The memory 201 is used to store programs, and the processor 200 executes the programs after receiving execution instructions. The method disclosed in any implementation of the aforementioned embodiment of the present application may be applied to the processor 200, or implemented by the processor 200.

[0077] The processor 200 may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. In the implementation process, each step of the above method can be completed by the hardware integrated logic circuit or software instructions in the processor 200. The above processor 200 can be a general-purpose processor, including a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), etc.; it can also be a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a readily available programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic devices, discrete gates or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components. The methods, steps and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of the present application can be implemented or executed. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or the processor can also be any conventional processor, etc. The steps of the method disclosed in the embodiments of the present application can be directly embodied as a hardware decoding processor to be executed, or the hardware and software modules in the decoding processor can be executed. The software module can be located in a mature storage medium in the field such as a random access memory, a flash memory, a read-only memory, a programmable read-only memory or an electrically erasable programmable memory, a register, etc. The storage medium is located in the memory 201, and the processor 200 reads the information in the memory 201 and completes the steps of the above method in combination with its hardware.

[0078] The electronic device provided in the embodiment of the present application and the method provided in the embodiment of the present application are based on the same inventive concept and have the same beneficial effects as the method adopted, operated or implemented by them.

[0079] The present application also provides a computer-readable storage medium corresponding to the method provided in the above embodiment. Figure 7 The computer-readable storage medium shown is a CD 30 on which a computer program (ie, a program product) is stored. When the computer program is run by a processor, the method provided in any of the aforementioned embodiments is executed.

[0080] It should be noted that examples of the computer-readable storage medium may also include, but are not limited to, phase change memory (PRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), other types of random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other optical or magnetic storage media, which are not listed here one by one.

[0081] The computer-readable storage medium provided in the above-mentioned embodiments of the present application and the method provided in the embodiments of the present application are based on the same inventive concept and have the same beneficial effects as the method adopted, run or implemented by the application program stored therein.

[0082] It should be noted that the above embodiments illustrate the present application rather than limit the present application, and that those skilled in the art may design alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference symbol between brackets should not be constructed as a limitation to the claims. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps not listed in the claims. The word "one" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of multiple such elements. The present application may be implemented by means of hardware including several different elements and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In a unit claim that lists several devices, several of these devices may be embodied by the same hardware item. The use of the words first, second, and third, etc. does not indicate any order. These words may be interpreted as names.

[0083] The above is only a preferred specific implementation of the present application, but the protection scope of the present application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily thought of by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present application should be included in the protection scope of the present application. Therefore, the protection scope of the present application shall be based on the protection scope of the claims.

[0084] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. All equivalent structural changes made by using the contents of the present invention specification and drawings under the concept of the present invention, or directly / indirectly applied in other related technical fields are included in the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A water heater, characterized in that: The hot water unit comprises: a heating host, a circulating water tank, a pressure water tank, a first water pump, a second water pump, a first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor, a third temperature sensor and a control module; the heating host comprises a main water tank and a heating device; The first water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the water inlet of the main water tank, the second water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the water outlet of the main water tank, and the second water pump is arranged between the first water inlet of the circulating water tank and the water inlet of the main water tank; The first water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected to the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, the second water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank, and the first water pump is arranged between the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank; The first temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the liquid in the main water tank; the second temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the liquid in the pressure water tank close to the second water outlet of the pressure water tank; the third temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the liquid in the circulating water tank close to the second water outlet of the circulating water tank; The control module is used to adjust the working state of the heating device and the first water pump and the second water pump according to the difference between the liquid temperature detected by the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor and the third temperature sensor and the preset temperature; The heating device is used to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank.

2. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control module is used to control the second water pump to start for a preset time when the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, so that liquid circulates between the circulating water tank and the main water tank.

3. The water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that: The control module is used to control the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature after the second water pump is turned on for a preset period of time and when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, and the second preset temperature is higher than the first preset temperature.

4. The water heater according to claim 3, characterized in that: The control module is also used to control the first water pump to start when the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, so that the liquid in the pressure water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, forcing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressure water tank.

5. The water heater according to claim 4, characterized in that: The control module is further configured to control the first water pump to stop when the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is greater than or equal to a first preset temperature and the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature.

6. The water heater unit according to claim 3, characterized in that: The control module is also used to control the heating device to stop heating when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is greater than a third preset temperature or when the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is greater than the second preset temperature, and the third preset temperature is greater than the second preset temperature.

7. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a secondary pressure water tank, the second water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank through the secondary pressure water tank, the second water inlet of the secondary pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank, and the first water inlet of the secondary pressure water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the pressure water tank.

8. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The third water inlet of the pressure water tank is used to be connected to a water supply pipe, and the second water inlet of the circulating water tank is used to be connected to a drainage pipe.

9. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first water inlet and the second water inlet of the circulating water tank are located at opposite ends of the circulating water tank; and / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the pressure water tank are located at opposite ends of the pressure water tank; and / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the circulating water tank are respectively located at the lower end and the upper end of the circulating water tank; and / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the pressure water tank are respectively located at the lower end and the upper end of the pressure water tank.

10. A method for controlling a water heater unit, characterized in that: Applied to the water heater unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the method comprises: According to the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being lower than the first preset temperature, controlling the second water pump to start for a preset time; After the second water pump is turned on for a preset time, if the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, controlling the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature, wherein the second preset temperature is higher than the first preset temperature; According to the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor being lower than the first preset temperature, the first water pump is controlled to be turned on, so that the liquid in the pressure water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, and the liquid in the circulating water tank is forced to flow toward the pressure water tank; The first water pump is controlled to stop according to the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor being greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, or the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being less than the first preset temperature.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that Controlling the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature includes: Controlling the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank; The heating device is controlled to stop heating according to the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor being greater than a third preset temperature or the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being greater than the second preset temperature, the third preset temperature being greater than the second preset temperature.

12. A water heater control system, characterized in that: Applicable to the water heater unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the system comprising: A water pump control module, configured to control the second water pump to start for a preset time period according to the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being lower than the first preset temperature; A heating device control module is used to control the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature greater than the first preset temperature after the second water pump is turned on for a preset period of time and when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature; based on the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor being less than the first preset temperature, control the first water pump to turn on so that the liquid in the pressure water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first water inlet of the pressure water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, forcing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressure water tank; based on the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor being greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, or the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being less than the first preset temperature, control the first water pump to stop.

13. An electronic device, comprising: A memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the processor implements the method according to claim 10 or 11 when executing the computer program.

14. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that: Computer readable instructions are stored thereon, and the computer readable instructions can be executed by a processor to implement the method according to claim 10 or 11.

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