A hot water unit, a hot water unit control method and system

Abstract

The application discloses a hot water unit, 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 host comprises a main water tank and a heating device. The modular design of the main water tank, the circulating water tank, the pressure-bearing water tank and the heating device facilitates the expansion and upgrading of the unit. The water in the main water tank and the circulating water tank is quickly recycled, the waiting time of the user is reduced, the stability of hot water supply is ensured, and water temperature fluctuation is avoided. The control module dynamically adjusts the operating state of the heating device and the water pump according to the temperature difference, and over-heating or unnecessary circulation is avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water heaters, and more specifically to a water heater unit, a water heater unit control method, and a system. Background Technology

[0002] In commercial hot water systems, open-type tanks are widely used due to their ease of installation, expandability, and lower cost. However, open-type tanks are exposed to the atmosphere and are susceptible to dust and impurities, which can lead to water quality degradation, especially in the open sections of the tank exposed to the atmosphere. Because open-type tanks cannot withstand high pressure, they typically rely on a water pump for supply. This means the system may require more complex pumping and piping designs to ensure efficient water delivery even without sufficient static pressure. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The main objective of this invention is to provide a hot water unit, a hot water unit control method, and a system. Through a modular design of the main water tank, circulating water tank, pressurized water tank, and heating device, the unit can be easily expanded and upgraded. By recycling water in the main and circulating water tanks, energy efficiency is improved. Through real-time monitoring by temperature sensors, the control module dynamically adjusts the operating status of the heating device and water pump based on temperature differences, avoiding overheating or unnecessary circulation. The design of the circulating and pressurized water tanks allows hot water to circulate rapidly within the system, reducing user waiting time and ensuring stable hot water supply while preventing temperature fluctuations.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application provide the following technical solutions:

[0005] According to a first aspect of the embodiments of this application, a hot water unit is provided, the hot water unit comprising: a heating main unit, a circulating water tank, a pressurized 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 unit includes a main water tank and a heating device;

[0006] The first water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the inlet of the main water tank, the second water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the outlet of the main water tank, and the second water pump is located between the first water inlet of the circulating water tank and the inlet of the main water tank.

[0007] The first water inlet of the pressurized water tank is connected to the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, the second water inlet of the pressurized water tank is connected to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank, and the first water pump is located between the first water inlet of the pressurized water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank.

[0008] 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 pressurized water tank near the second water inlet of the pressurized 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.

[0009] The control module is used to adjust the working status 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.

[0010] The heating device is used to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank.

[0011] Optionally, 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 circulation occurs between the circulating water tank and the main water tank.

[0012] Optionally, the control module is configured to, after the second water pump has been turned on for a preset time, and if the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, control 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 greater than the first preset temperature.

[0013] Optionally, the control module is further configured 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 pressurized water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first water inlet of the pressurized water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, thereby forcing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressurized water tank.

[0014] 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 the first preset temperature and the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature.

[0015] Optionally, the control module is further configured 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, wherein the third preset temperature is greater than the second preset temperature.

[0016] Optionally, it also includes a secondary pressurized water tank, wherein the second inlet of the pressurized water tank is connected to the second inlet of the circulating water tank through the secondary pressurized water tank, the second inlet of the secondary pressurized water tank is connected to the second inlet of the circulating water tank, and the first inlet of the secondary pressurized water tank is connected to the second inlet of the pressurized water tank.

[0017] Optionally, the third inlet of the pressurized water tank is used to connect to the water supply pipe, and the second inlet of the circulating water tank is used to connect to the drain pipe.

[0018] Optionally, the first and second water inlets of the circulating water tank are located at opposite ends of the circulating water tank; and / or, the first and second water inlets of the pressurized water tank are located at opposite ends of the pressurized water tank; and / or, the first and second water inlets of the circulating water tank are located at the lower and upper ends of the circulating water tank, respectively; and / or, the first and second water inlets of the pressurized water tank are located at the lower and upper ends of the pressurized water tank, respectively.

[0019] According to a second aspect of the embodiments of this application, a hot water unit control method is provided, applied to the hot water unit described in the first aspect, the method comprising:

[0020] Based on the fact that the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, the second water pump is controlled to start for a preset duration.

[0021] After the second water pump has been turned on for a preset time, if the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, the heating device is controlled to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature, which is higher than the first preset temperature.

[0022] If the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, the first water pump is controlled to start, so that the liquid in the pressurized water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first water inlet of the pressurized water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, forcing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressurized water tank.

[0023] The first water pump is controlled to stop if the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, or if the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature.

[0024] 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 includes:

[0025] The heating device is controlled to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank;

[0026] The heating device is controlled to stop heating if the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is greater than the third preset temperature or if the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is greater than the second preset temperature. The third preset temperature is greater than the second preset temperature.

[0027] According to a third aspect of the embodiments of this application, a hot water unit control system is provided, applied to the hot water unit described in the first aspect, the system comprising:

[0028] The water pump control module is used to control the second water pump to start for a preset duration based on the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being lower than the first preset temperature.

[0029] The heating device control module is configured to, after the second water pump has been turned on for a preset time, and if the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, control 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; control the first water pump to turn on based on the second temperature sensor's detection that the temperature is lower than the first preset temperature, so that the liquid in the pressurized water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first inlet of the pressurized water tank and the third inlet of the circulating water tank, forcing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressurized water tank; and control the first water pump to stop based on the second temperature sensor's detection that the temperature is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, or the third temperature sensor's detection that the temperature is lower than the first preset temperature.

[0030] According to a fourth aspect 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.

[0031] According to a fifth aspect of the present application, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores computer-readable instructions thereon, which can be executed by a processor to implement the method described in the first aspect above.

[0032] In summary, this application provides a hot water unit, a hot water unit control method, and a system. The hot water unit includes: a heating main unit, a circulating water tank, a pressurized 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 unit includes a main water tank and a heating device. The first inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the inlet of the main water tank, and the second inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the outlet of the main water tank. The second water pump is located between the first inlet of the circulating water tank and the inlet of the main water tank. The first inlet of the pressurized water tank is connected to the third inlet of the circulating water tank, and the second inlet of the pressurized water tank is connected to the second inlet of the circulating water tank. The first water pump is located between the first inlet of the pressurized water tank and the third inlet of the circulating water tank. The first temperature sensor... 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 at the second inlet of the pressurized water tank; the third temperature sensor is used to detect the liquid temperature at the second inlet of the circulating water tank; the control module is used to adjust the operating status of the heating device and the first and second water pumps based on the difference between the liquid temperatures detected by the first, second, and third temperature sensors and a 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, circulating water tank, pressurized water tank, and heating device facilitates the expansion and upgrading of the unit; the rapid recycling of water in the main and circulating water tanks reduces user waiting time while ensuring the stability of hot water supply. Through real-time monitoring by temperature sensors, the control module dynamically adjusts the operating status of the heating device and water pumps according to temperature differences to avoid overheating or unnecessary circulation. Attached Figure Description

[0033] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0034] The structures, proportions, sizes, etc. illustrated in this specification are only for the purpose of assisting those skilled in the art in understanding and reading the content disclosed herein, and are not intended to limit the conditions under which the present invention can be implemented. Therefore, they have no substantial technical significance. Any modifications to the structure, changes in the proportions, or adjustments to the size, without affecting the effects and objectives that the present invention can produce, should still fall within the scope of the technical content disclosed in the present invention.

[0035] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a hot water unit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of a hot water unit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of a hot water unit control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the host control logic provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0039] Figure 5 This is a block diagram of a hot water unit control system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 6 This paper shows a structural diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 7 A diagram of a computer-readable storage medium provided in an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0042] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0043] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0044] 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 positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indication will also change accordingly.

[0045] Furthermore, in this invention, descriptions involving "first," "second," etc., are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0046] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connection," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "fixed" can mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can mean a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can mean the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0047] Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other, but only if they are feasible for those skilled in the art. If the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be considered that such combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention.

[0048] Figure 1 This application illustrates a hot water unit provided in an embodiment of the present application. The hot water unit includes: a heating main unit, a circulating water tank, a pressurized 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 unit includes a main water tank and a heating device. The first inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the inlet of the main water tank, and the second inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the outlet of the main water tank. The second water pump is located between the first inlet of the circulating water tank and the inlet of the main water tank. The first inlet of the pressurized water tank is connected to the third inlet of the circulating water tank, and the second inlet of the pressurized water tank is connected to the second inlet of the circulating water tank. The first water pump is located between the first inlet of the pressurized water tank and the third 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 near the second inlet of the pressurized water tank. The third temperature sensor is used to detect the liquid temperature near the second inlet of the circulating water tank. The control module is used to adjust the working state of the heating device and the first and second water pumps based on the difference between the liquid temperatures detected by the first, second, and third temperature sensors and a preset temperature. The heating device is used to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank.

[0049] The heating device is used to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank. By precisely controlling the heating process, energy waste can be avoided while ensuring the comfort of hot water supply. This solves the problems commonly found in traditional hot water systems, such as high energy consumption, large water temperature fluctuations, slow response speed, and insufficient safety.

[0050] From a system structure perspective, the hot water unit adopts a three-stage water tank design, including a main water tank for the heating unit, a circulating water tank, and a pressurized water tank. This multi-stage structure, combined with the coordinated operation of the first and second water pumps, achieves efficient water circulation and on-demand heating. The temperature monitoring system consists of three temperature sensors: the first sensor monitors the temperature of the core heating area in the main water tank, the second sensor detects the outlet water temperature of the pressurized water tank, and the third sensor monitors the outlet temperature of the circulating water tank. This comprehensive temperature monitoring network provides accurate data support for intelligent control.

[0051] In terms of control logic, the system employs 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, rather than immediately heating. This "circulation priority" strategy effectively avoids unnecessary energy waste. After completing the preset circulation time, the system performs a secondary check via the main water tank temperature sensor, and only activates the heating device if the water temperature still does not meet the standard. This step-by-step judgment method ensures heating efficiency while minimizing energy consumption.

[0052] The system's safety mechanisms are equally noteworthy. By setting multiple temperature thresholds (first preset temperature, second preset temperature, and third preset temperature) and using cross-verification from multiple sensors, the system effectively prevents safety hazards such as overheating. Specifically, when the main water tank temperature exceeds the third preset temperature (the highest safety threshold), the system immediately cuts off the heating device to ensure safe operation. This multi-layered protection design significantly enhances the system's reliability and safety.

[0053] From a practicality and scalability perspective, this hot water unit adopts a modular design with a rational layout of components, facilitating installation and maintenance. The inlet and outlet of the circulating water tank and the pressurized water tank are designed with opposing positions, fully utilizing the principle of heat convection and improving heat exchange efficiency. Furthermore, the system supports capacity expansion by adding a secondary pressurized water tank, flexibly adapting to different scales of water demand.

[0054] In one possible implementation, the control module is used to control the second water pump to start for a preset duration when the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, so that liquid circulation occurs between the circulating water tank and the main water tank.

[0055] This implementation method embodies the energy-saving concept of "circulation before heating." When the system detects insufficient water temperature in the circulating tank, it does not directly activate the heating device. Instead, it prioritizes water circulation via a water pump, ensuring thorough mixing of the water between the main tank and the circulating tank. This design effectively utilizes any residual heat in the main tank, avoiding unnecessary energy consumption. The preset duration ensures sufficient circulation while preventing excessive pump operation.

[0056] In one possible implementation, 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, which is greater than the first preset temperature, after the second water pump has been turned on for a preset time and the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature.

[0057] The hot water unit of this application adopts an innovative staged temperature detection and control method. By setting up a collaborative working logic between the first and third temperature sensors, energy consumption optimization and system reliability improvement are achieved. The specific control process is as follows:

[0058] Phase 1: Cyclic Triggering and Preliminary Detection: When the third temperature sensor detects that the temperature at the outlet of the circulating water tank is lower than the first preset temperature (e.g., 40℃), the control module immediately starts the second water pump and keeps it running for a preset time (e.g., 30-120 seconds). In this phase, forced circulation ensures thorough mixing of the water in the main tank and the circulating water tank, eliminating localized low temperatures caused by thermal stratification; this provides a uniform water environment for subsequent temperature detection, avoiding misjudgments due to differences in measurement locations.

[0059] Phase Two: Verification and Heating Decision: After the second water pump completes a cycle of the preset duration, the control module performs a second detection on the main water tank temperature using the first temperature sensor. If the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is ≥ the first preset temperature, it indicates that the cycle has brought the system water temperature to a balanced and acceptable level, and there is no need to start the heating device; the system can directly enter the heat preservation 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 (e.g., 55°C).

[0060] In one possible implementation, the control module is further configured 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 pressurized water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first water inlet of the pressurized water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, thereby forcing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressurized water tank.

[0061] When the second temperature sensor detects insufficient temperature at the outlet of the pressurized water tank, the system activates the first water pump to pump the low-temperature liquid from the pressurized tank into the circulating water tank. This counter-flow design utilizes pressure difference for rapid water replenishment, simultaneously driving the liquid in the circulating water tank towards the pressurized tank, creating a dynamic equilibrium. This design not only maintains the system's temperature gradient but also ensures stable water supply pressure, enhancing heating capacity during peak hours. The system incorporates multiple safety protection mechanisms, including runtime limits and sudden temperature drop monitoring, significantly reducing the system's failure rate.

[0062] In one possible implementation, 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 the first preset temperature and the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature.

[0063] When the outlet temperature of the pressurized water tank (monitored by the second temperature sensor) reaches or exceeds the first preset temperature, it indicates that the hot water supply in that area has met the requirements. Stopping the first water pump at this point avoids energy waste. Secondly, stopping the water pump when the outlet temperature of the circulating water tank (monitored by the third temperature sensor) is still below the preset value prevents a drop in the overall system temperature due to continuous cold water injection, ensuring heating stability. 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 both temperature sensors to simultaneously meet specific conditions before executing the stop operation, the system can respond promptly to actual temperature changes while effectively avoiding malfunctions caused by false alarms from a single sensor. This technical solution also enhances the system's fault tolerance; when one sensor fails, the other sensor can still provide protective judgment, ensuring that the system does not completely lose control. This intelligent stop condition setting allows the hot water unit to maintain efficient and stable operation under complex conditions, making it particularly suitable for commercial applications with large fluctuations in water supply load.

[0064] In one possible implementation, the control module is further configured 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, wherein the third preset temperature is greater than the second preset temperature.

[0065] Heating is immediately stopped when the first temperature sensor detects that the main water tank temperature exceeds the third preset temperature (safety threshold). This design primarily addresses the risk of overheating. By setting a safety threshold higher than the normal operating temperature (second preset temperature), the system ensures sufficient heating capacity while providing a safety buffer for extreme situations. Secondly, heating stops when the third temperature sensor detects that the circulating water tank outlet temperature exceeds the second preset temperature (target operating value), enabling precise on-demand heating. Compared to traditional solutions, this design creatively utilizes the circulating water tank outlet temperature as the control basis, more accurately reflecting the actual water temperature demand and avoiding energy waste caused by localized overheating of the main water tank.

[0066] By setting reasonable temperature thresholds in stages (first preset < second preset < third preset), and controlling the difference between each threshold range (e.g., the temperature difference between the second and third presets is controlled within 10-15℃), the system avoids excessively frequent protection actions that could affect the user experience, while ensuring rapid response in abnormal situations. This intelligent temperature gradient management enables the equipment to automatically adapt to the operating requirements under different ambient temperatures and water quality conditions.

[0067] In one possible implementation, a secondary pressurized water tank is also included. The second inlet of the pressurized water tank is connected to the second inlet of the circulating water tank through the secondary pressurized water tank. The second inlet of the secondary pressurized water tank is connected to the second inlet of the circulating water tank. The first inlet of the secondary pressurized water tank is connected to the second inlet of the pressurized water tank.

[0068] This hot water unit incorporates a two-stage pressurized water tank structure, achieving enhanced system performance through a specific piping connection method. The second inlet of the main pressurized water tank is directly connected to the first inlet of the secondary pressurized water tank, which in turn is connected to the second inlet of the circulating water tank. This series connection creatively establishes a stepped pressure transmission channel. In actual operation, when the water level in the main pressurized water tank drops, the secondary pressurized water tank can respond instantly to the pressure change and replenish water.

[0069] In one possible implementation, the third inlet of the pressurized water tank is used to connect to the water supply pipe, and the second inlet of the circulating water tank is used to connect to the drain pipe.

[0070] In this hot water unit system, the drain pipe is the hot water outlet pipe, used to supply hot water at a stable temperature to the user. This drain pipe is directly connected to the second inlet of the circulating water tank (located in the high-temperature zone at the top of the tank), and through the internal heat circulation mechanism of the system, it continuously outputs hot water at the set temperature to the user terminal.

[0071] In one possible implementation, the first and second water inlets of the circulating water tank are located at opposite ends of the circulating water tank; and / or, the first and second water inlets of the pressurized water tank are located at opposite ends of the pressurized water tank; and / or, the first and second water inlets of the circulating water tank are located at the lower and upper ends of the circulating water tank, respectively; and / or, the first and second water inlets of the pressurized water tank are located at the lower and upper ends of the pressurized water tank, respectively.

[0072] The hot water unit and control method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0073] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a hot water unit is shown. The hot water unit includes: a heating unit, a circulating water tank, a pressurized water tank assembly, a first water pump, a second water pump, a third temperature sensor, and a second temperature sensor. The heating unit includes a main water tank and a heating element. The pressurized water tank stores water, with its inlet pipe located at the bottom and its outlet pipe at the top to ensure smooth hot water flow. There is at least one pressurized water tank, which can be configured according to project requirements to achieve tiered heating of hot water. If multiple tanks are present, they are installed in series. Figure 2 The pressurized water tank assembly shown includes a first pressurized water tank, a second pressurized water tank, a third pressurized water tank, and a fourth pressurized water tank.

[0074] The first inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the inlet of the main water tank, and the second inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the outlet of the main water tank. The second water pump is located between the first inlet of the circulating water tank and the inlet of the main water tank. The first inlet of the fourth pressurized water tank is connected to the second inlet of the third pressurized water tank, and the second inlet of the fourth pressurized water tank is connected to the second inlet of the circulating water tank. The first inlet of the third pressurized water tank is connected to the second inlet of the second pressurized water tank. The first inlet of the second pressurized water tank is connected to the second inlet of the first pressurized water tank, and the first inlet of the first pressurized water tank is connected to the third inlet of the circulating water tank. The first water pump is located between the first inlet of the first pressurized water tank and the third inlet of the circulating water tank. The third inlet of the circulating water tank serves as the return port of the pressurized water tank group, forming a closed loop with the primary pressurized water tank through the first water pump.

[0075] The pressurized water tank group (first to fourth pressurized water tanks) of this hot water unit forms a pressure buffer channel through a series pipeline: the first pressurized water tank receives cold water through a third inlet connected to the water supply pipe; the water flows sequentially through the second and third pressurized water tanks to the fourth pressurized water tank, and then returns to the circulating water tank through its second inlet. All pressurized water tanks adopt a 'bottom inlet, top outlet' layout, relying on gravity and pressure difference to achieve pump-free flow. A third temperature sensor installed at the outlet of the fourth pressurized water tank monitors the temperature of the return hot water in real time. When the detected value is lower than a set threshold, the control module starts the first water pump to supplement cold water from the water supply pipe; the drain pipe at the top of the circulating water tank serves as the final hot water output outlet, and its temperature is monitored by another third temperature sensor to adjust the working status of the heating device. This system achieves a stepped pressure distribution through the series connection of four water tanks, ensuring a stable water output.

[0076] In one possible implementation, the third inlet of the first pressurized water tank is used to connect to the water supply pipe (external water source), and the second inlet of the circulating water tank is used to connect to the drain pipe (external user end) to provide hot water at a stable temperature.

[0077] In one possible implementation, the first and second inlets of the circulating water tank are located at opposite ends of the circulating water tank; and / or, the first and second inlets of the fourth pressurized water tank are located at opposite ends of the fourth pressurized water tank. And / or, the first and second inlets of the third pressurized water tank are located at opposite ends of the third pressurized water tank. And / or, the first and second inlets of the second pressurized water tank are located at opposite ends of the second pressurized water tank. And / or, the first and second inlets of the first pressurized water tank are located at opposite ends of the first pressurized water tank.

[0078] For example, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the circulating water tank are located at the lower end and the upper end of the circulating water tank, respectively; and / or, the first water inlet and the second water inlet of the first pressurized water tank are located at the lower end and the upper end of the first pressurized water tank, respectively.

[0079] The heating device is used to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank.

[0080] The first temperature sensor is installed in the first pressurized water tank to monitor the water temperature in the supply pipe; the second temperature sensor is installed in the second pressurized water tank to monitor the water temperature in the pressurized water tank assembly; and the third temperature sensor is installed in the circulating water tank to monitor the water temperature in the circulating water tank. The control module uses the data from these sensors to control the start and stop of the water pump and the operating status of the heating device.

[0081] In one possible implementation, the control module may include components such as a two-way valve for automatically adjusting the operating status of the water pump and heating device based on the readings of the temperature sensor.

[0082] During temperature control, 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 with the water in the heating unit, thereby increasing the water temperature. After the second water pump has run for a preset period of 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 to the second preset temperature. When the second temperature sensor detects that the water temperature in the second pressurized 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 becoming 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 equipment 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 system temperature from dropping. This phased temperature detection and control method enables hot water units to achieve both energy consumption optimization and system reliability improvement, making it particularly suitable for commercial applications with large fluctuations in water supply load.

[0083] For example, this hot water unit employs a staged temperature control strategy: when the third temperature sensor at the outlet of the circulating water tank detects a water temperature below 40℃ (first preset value), the control module starts the second water pump for 90 seconds, promoting water circulation between the main water tank and the circulating water tank. After circulation, if the first temperature sensor in the main water tank still shows a temperature below 40℃, the heating device is activated to raise the temperature to 60℃ (second preset value). The second temperature sensor in the pressurized water tank group monitors the output water temperature in real time, stopping the first water pump when it reaches or exceeds 40℃; if the third temperature sensor in the circulating water tank detects a temperature exceeding 60℃, the heating device is simultaneously stopped. For safety protection, heating is immediately cut off when the main water tank temperature exceeds 70℃ (third preset value), and the first water pump is forcibly stopped when the circulating water tank temperature unexpectedly falls below 40℃ to prevent system temperature runaway. All judgment conditions are subject to time delay verification (e.g., action is only taken after a continuous 10-second delay) to avoid accidental triggering due to instantaneous fluctuations.

[0084] Based on the same technical concept, embodiments of this application also provide a hot water unit control method, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the method includes:

[0085] S301: Based on the fact that the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, control the second water pump to start for a preset duration;

[0086] When the third temperature sensor detects that the temperature in the circulating water tank is lower than the first preset temperature, the system determines that hot water needs to be added. The system first utilizes any residual hot water in the pipes by activating the second water pump to circulate the hot water from the pipes to the circulating water tank, prioritizing the use of this hot water to meet the demand. Within a preset time period, the system observes whether circulating the residual hot water is sufficient to meet the temperature requirement. If, within the delay time, the hot water in the pipes has raised the water temperature back to a suitable range, there is no need to activate the heating device. By making efficient use of the hot water in the pipes, the number of times the heating device is activated and its operating time are reduced.

[0087] S302: After the second water pump has been turned on for a preset time, if the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, the heating device is controlled 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 greater than the first preset temperature.

[0088] S303: Based on the fact that the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, control the first water pump to start, so that the liquid in the pressurized water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first water inlet of the pressurized water tank and the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, forcing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressurized water tank.

[0089] S304: Control the first water pump to stop if the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, or if the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature.

[0090] Figure 4 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the host control logic provided in an embodiment of this application, which is applied to... Figure 1 The hot water unit shown includes the following steps:

[0091] Step 1: Monitor the temperature of the third temperature sensor T1 installed on the circulating water tank. When the temperature of the third temperature sensor T1 is lower than the set opening temperature threshold T_on, the power-on 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 opening temperature threshold T_on, the standby state is maintained, and T1 is monitored again.

[0092] Step 2: Start the second water pump (pump 2) and run it for a preset time T_time to preheat the water using the hot water remaining in the pipe.

[0093] 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 repeat step 1.

[0094] Step 4: After the heating device is started, the temperatures of the third temperature sensor T1 and the first temperature sensor T7 are continuously monitored. These two temperature values ​​are used to determine if the shutdown conditions are met. When the temperature conditions meet the preset shutdown threshold, the heating device is controlled to stop operating and enter standby mode. Specifically, the shutdown conditions can be T1 > T_off, or T7 > T_off + ΔT; T_off is the shutdown temperature threshold, and ΔT is the shutdown temperature hysteresis.

[0095] Step 5: After the unit is shut down, check the temperature of the second temperature sensor T5 installed in the pressurized water tank. If the temperature of T5 is lower than T_on, start the first water pump (pump 1) and the electric two-way valve to promote water circulation between the pressurized water tank and the circulating water tank.

[0096] Step 6: When the temperature of T1 is detected to be lower than that of T_on again, turn off the first water pump and the electric two-way valve to prevent cold water from entering the already heated water tank and maintain the hot water temperature.

[0097] Step 7: After the first water pump and the electric two-way valve are closed, the system returns to standby mode, executes step 1, and waits for the next start-up condition to be triggered.

[0098] These steps constitute the basic process of the piping and control method for connecting the circulating water heater to the pressurized water tank, ensuring the efficient operation of the system and the stability of the hot water supply.

[0099] In summary, this application provides a hot water unit and a hot water unit control method. The hot water unit includes: a heating main unit, a pressurized 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 main unit includes a main water tank and a heating device. A first inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the inlet of the main water tank, and a second inlet of the circulating water tank is connected to the outlet of the main water tank. A second water pump is positioned between the first inlet of the circulating water tank and the inlet of the main water tank. A first inlet of the pressurized water tank is connected to the third inlet of the circulating water tank, and a second inlet of the pressurized water tank is connected to the second inlet of the circulating water tank. A first water pump is positioned between the first inlet of the pressurized water tank and the third inlet of the circulating water tank. The modular design of the main water tank, circulating water tank, pressurized water tank, and heating device facilitates the expansion and upgrading of the unit. By rapidly recycling the water in the main water tank and the circulating water tank, user waiting time is reduced, while ensuring the stability of the hot water supply. Through real-time monitoring by temperature sensors, the control module dynamically adjusts the operating status of the heating device and water pump according to temperature differences, avoiding overheating or unnecessary circulation.

[0100] Based on the same technical concept, embodiments of this application also provide a hot water unit control system, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the system includes:

[0101] The water pump control module 501 is used to control the second water pump to start for a preset time based on the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being lower than the first preset temperature.

[0102] The heating device control module 502 is configured to, after the second water pump has been turned on for a preset time, and if the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, control 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; control the first water pump to turn on if the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is lower than the first preset temperature, so that the liquid in the pressurized water tank enters the circulating water tank through the first inlet of the pressurized water tank and the third inlet of the circulating water tank, forcing the liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressurized water tank; and control the first water pump to stop if the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, or if the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature.

[0103] This application also provides an electronic device corresponding to the method provided in the foregoing embodiments. Please refer to... Figure 6 The diagram illustrates an electronic device provided by some embodiments of this 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 run on the processor 200, and when the processor 200 runs the computer program, it executes the method provided by any of the foregoing embodiments of this application.

[0104] The memory 201 may include high-speed random access memory (RAM) or non-volatile memory, such as at least one disk storage device. Communication between this system network element and at least one other network element is achieved through at least one physical port (which can be wired or wireless), such as the Internet, wide area network, local area network, or metropolitan area network.

[0105] Bus 202 can be an ISA bus, PCI bus, or EISA bus, etc. The bus can be divided into an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, etc. The memory 201 is used to store programs. After receiving an execution instruction, the processor 200 executes the program. The method disclosed in any of the foregoing embodiments of this application can be applied to the processor 200, or implemented by the processor 200.

[0106] The processor 200 may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. In implementation, each step of the above method can be completed by the integrated logic circuitry in the hardware of the processor 200 or by instructions in software form. The processor 200 may be a general-purpose processor, including a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), etc.; it may also be a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an off-the-shelf programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. It can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly embodied in the execution of a hardware decoding processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software modules may reside in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. The storage medium is located in memory 201. The processor 200 reads the information in memory 201 and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above method.

[0107] The electronic devices and methods provided in the embodiments of this application are based on the same inventive concept and have the same beneficial effects as the methods they employ, operate, or implement.

[0108] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium corresponding to the method provided in the foregoing embodiments. Please refer to... Figure 7 The computer-readable storage medium shown is an optical disc 30, on which a computer program (i.e., a program product) is stored, which, when run by a processor, executes the methods provided in any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0109] 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 and magnetic storage media, which will not be elaborated here.

[0110] The computer-readable storage medium provided in the above embodiments of this application and the method provided in the embodiments of this application are based on the same inventive concept and have the same beneficial effects as the methods adopted, run or implemented by the applications stored therein.

[0111] It should be noted that the above embodiments are illustrative of this application and not restrictive, and that those skilled in the art can devise alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses should not be construed as limiting the claims. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps not listed in the claims. The word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. This application can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In the unit claims enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by the same item of hardware. The use of the words first, second, and third, etc., does not indicate any order. These words can be interpreted as names.

[0112] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

[0113] 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 transformations made under the concept of the present invention using the contents of the present invention specification and drawings, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A water heater unit, characterized by The hot water unit comprises a heating main machine, a circulating water tank, a pressure water tank, a secondary 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 main machine comprises a main water tank and a heating device; The first water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected with the water inlet of the main water tank, the second water inlet of the circulating water tank is connected with 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 with the third water inlet of the circulating water tank, the second water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected with 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 second water inlet of the pressure water tank is connected with 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 with the second water inlet of the circulating water tank, and the first water inlet of the secondary pressure water tank is connected with the second water inlet of the pressure water tank; The first temperature sensor is used for detecting the liquid temperature in the main water tank, the second temperature sensor is used for detecting the liquid temperature in the pressure water tank close to the second water inlet of the pressure water tank, and the third temperature sensor is used for detecting the liquid temperature in the circulating water tank close to the second water inlet of the circulating water tank. The control module is configured to adjust the working states of the heating device and the first and second water pumps according to differences between preset temperatures and liquid temperatures detected by the first, second, and third temperature sensors; the control module is configured to control the second water pump to be turned on for a preset time duration so that liquid circulation is performed between the circulating water tank and the main water tank when the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is less than a first preset temperature; the control module is configured to control the heating device to heat liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature that is greater than the first preset temperature when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature after the second water pump is turned on for the preset time duration; the control module is further configured to control the first water pump to be turned on so that liquid in the pressure-bearing water tank flows into the circulating water tank through the first water port of the pressure-bearing water tank and the third water port of the circulating water tank, thereby forcing liquid in the circulating water tank to flow toward the pressure-bearing water tank when the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature; the control module is further configured to control the first water pump to be stopped when the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature and the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature; the control module is further configured to control the heating device to be stopped when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is greater than a third preset temperature or the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is greater than the second preset temperature, the third preset temperature being greater than the second preset temperature. The heating device is configured to heat liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank.

2. The water heater unit of claim 1, wherein The third water port of the pressure-bearing water tank is configured to be connected to a water supply pipe, and the second water port of the circulating water tank is configured to be connected to a drain pipe.

3. The water heater unit of claim 1, wherein The first and second water ports of the circulating water tank are located at opposite ends of the circulating water tank; and / or, the first and second water ports of the pressure-bearing water tank are located at opposite ends of the pressure-bearing water tank; and / or, the first and second water ports of the circulating water tank are located at a lower end and an upper end of the circulating water tank, respectively; and / or, the first and second water ports of the pressure-bearing water tank are located at a lower end and an upper end of the pressure-bearing water tank, respectively.

4. A method of controlling a water heater unit, the method comprising: The method is applied to the water heater according to any one of claims 1-3, and the method comprises: controlling the second water pump to be turned on for a preset time duration according to the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor being less than a first preset temperature; In a case where the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature after the second water pump is opened for the preset time length, the heating device is controlled to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to a second preset temperature, the second preset temperature being greater than the first preset temperature; the control of the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to the 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 that the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is greater than a third preset temperature or that the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is greater than the second preset temperature, the third preset temperature being greater than the second preset temperature; the first water pump is controlled to be opened according to that the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature, so that the liquid in the pressure water tank flows into the circulating water tank through the first water port of the pressure water tank and the third water port of the circulating water tank, and the liquid in the circulating water tank is forced to flow towards the pressure water tank; the first water pump is controlled to stop according to that the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature or that the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature.

5. A hot water unit control system characterized by, The system is applied to the water heater group in any one of claims 1-3, and the system comprises: a water pump control module configured to control the second water pump to be opened for a preset time length according to that the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is less than a first preset temperature; a heating device control module configured 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 in a case where the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature after the second water pump is opened for the preset time length, the second preset temperature being greater than the first preset temperature; control the first water pump to be opened according to that the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature, so that the liquid in the pressure water tank flows into the circulating water tank through the first water port of the pressure water tank and the third water port of the circulating water tank, and the liquid in the circulating water tank is forced to flow towards the pressure water tank; control the first water pump to stop according to that the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature or that the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature; the control of the heating device to heat the liquid in the main water tank and / or the circulating water tank to the 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 that the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is greater than a third preset temperature or that the temperature detected by the third temperature sensor is greater than the second preset temperature, the third preset temperature being greater than the second preset temperature.

6. An electronic device comprising: A memory, a processor, and a computer program stored on the memory and executable on the processor, characterized in that the processor, when executing the computer program, performs to implement the method of claim 4.

7. A computer readable storage medium characterized in that, A computer program product having stored thereon computer readable instructions, the computer readable instructions executable by a processor to implement the method of claim 4.

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