Liquid level detection method of liquid heater

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention discloses a liquid level detection method of a liquid heater, and relates to the technical field of liquid level detection.The liquid heater comprises a liquid container, a water suction pump and a water level detection area arranged on the side wall of the liquid container, and a plurality of longitudinally-distributed electrode plates are arranged in the water level detection area; the method comprises the following steps: combining electrode plates into a plurality of mutual capacitance combinations based on a preset program, and respectively determining a detection water level corresponding to each mutual capacitance combination; acquiring real-time mutual capacitance data of the plurality of mutual capacitance combinations under the triggering of the water inlet instruction of the user, and determining a water-containing mutual capacitance combination of the detected liquid in the plurality of mutual capacitance combinations based on the real-time mutual capacitance data and a preset condition; based on the detected water level corresponding to the water mutual capacitance combination, current water level information of the liquid container is determined, execution actions of a water suction pump are controlled through the current water level information and a user water inlet instruction, and the execution actions comprise water inlet stopping and water suction power adjusting.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present specification relates to the technical field of liquid level detection, and in particular to a liquid level detection method for a liquid heater. Background Art

[0002] Liquid heaters, such as health pots and tea bar machines, are increasingly used in daily life. The main function of these devices is to heat and boil liquids, such as water and various health ingredients (tea, beans, porridge, etc.) to meet the drinking and health needs of users. During the water inlet control process, liquid level detection needs to meet the water inlet requirements of different water inflows.

[0003] The current liquid level detection technology sets a capacitor electrode inside the kettle, utilizes the influence of liquid level fluctuation on the capacitance value of the capacitor electrode, and detects the change in capacitance value of the capacitor electrode to detect the liquid level. However, in addition to the change in liquid level, there are also interference factors such as temperature that affect the change in capacitance value. In a liquid heater, liquid level detection by capacitance value is easily affected by temperature, resulting in inaccurate liquid level detection. In addition, the use of capacitance value changes for liquid level detection requires the conditions of liquid level fluctuations. When the liquid level is static, the capacitance value does not change, which makes it impossible to detect the current liquid level. During the use of the liquid heater, whether it is the water inlet control process or the heating and boiling process, there is a situation where the liquid level is static. Therefore, in the actual use of the liquid heater, the current liquid level detection method is easily affected by temperature, and for scenes where the liquid level is static and no capacitance changes occur, the current liquid level cannot be detected, resulting in inaccurate liquid level detection results. Summary of the invention

[0004] One or more embodiments of the present specification provide a liquid level detection method for a liquid heater, which is used to solve the following technical problems: the current liquid level detection method is easily affected by temperature, and in scenarios where the liquid level is static and no capacitance change occurs, the current liquid level cannot be detected, resulting in inaccurate liquid level detection results.

[0005] One or more embodiments of this specification adopt the following technical solutions:

[0006] One or more embodiments of the present specification provide a liquid level detection method for a liquid heater, the liquid heater comprising a liquid container and a water pump, and a water level detection area arranged on the side wall of the liquid container, wherein a plurality of electrode sheets distributed longitudinally are arranged in the water level detection area, the method comprising: combining the electrode sheets into a plurality of mutual capacitance combinations based on a preset program, and respectively determining a detection water level corresponding to each mutual capacitance combination; acquiring real-time mutual capacitance data of the plurality of mutual capacitance combinations under the triggering of a user's water inlet instruction, and determining a mutual capacitance combination with water detected in the plurality of mutual capacitance combinations based on the real-time mutual capacitance data and preset conditions; determining current water level information of the liquid container based on the detection water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination with water, so as to control the execution action of the water pump through the current water level information and the user's water inlet instruction, wherein the execution action comprises stopping water inlet and adjusting the water pumping power.

[0007] Furthermore, determining a mutual capacitance combination with water in which liquid is detected among the multiple mutual capacitance combinations based on the real-time mutual capacitance data and preset conditions specifically includes: judging the multiple mutual capacitance combinations based on the real-time mutual capacitance data and preset conditions; when the real-time mutual capacitance data of any mutual capacitance combination meets the preset conditions, determining that the current water level exceeds a first detection water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination; when the real-time mutual capacitance data of any mutual capacitance combination does not meet the preset conditions, recording a second detection water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination; and determining the mutual capacitance combination with water based on the first detection water level and the second detection water level.

[0008] Further, based on the first detected water level and the second detected water level, the water-containing mutual capacitance combination is determined, specifically including: determining the maximum detected water level among the first detected water levels; when the second detected water levels are all higher than the maximum detected water level, determining that the mutual capacitance combination corresponding to the maximum detected water level is the water-containing mutual capacitance combination.

[0009] Furthermore, the process of detecting whether the real-time mutual capacitance data meets the preset conditions specifically includes: within the preset sampling period t, continuously acquiring the real-time mutual capacitance data of each of the mutual capacitance combinations in each acquisition process; when the real-time mutual capacitance data is less than a preset reference index for n consecutive times, determining that the real-time mutual capacitance data meets the preset conditions; when the real-time mutual capacitance data is greater than the reference index, determining that the real-time mutual capacitance data does not meet the preset conditions; wherein n is the number of valid data, which is negatively correlated with the sampling period and the pumping power.

[0010] Furthermore, the mutual capacitance combination includes an excitation electrode sheet as an excitation end and a detection electrode sheet as a receiving end. After the detection electrode sheet receives the excitation signal sent by the excitation electrode sheet, the real-time mutual capacitance data is generated. The real-time mutual capacitance data is related to the water contact area of ​​the detection electrode sheet.

[0011] Furthermore, when the correspondence between the excitation electrode sheet and the detection electrode sheet is one-to-one, the real-time mutual capacitance value of the detection electrode sheet in each mutual capacitance combination is collected, the real-time mutual capacitance value is determined as real-time mutual capacitance data, and the reference indicator is determined as a preset water capacitance threshold.

[0012] Furthermore, before determining that the reference indicator is a preset water-containing capacitance threshold, the method also includes: obtaining a water-free capacitance value and a water-containing capacitance value corresponding to each of the mutual capacitance combinations under preset water quality, and determining a capacitance difference between the water-containing capacitance value and the water-free capacitance value; and determining the water-containing capacitance threshold corresponding to each of the mutual capacitance combinations through the capacitance difference and a preset adjustment factor.

[0013] Furthermore, when the correspondence between the excitation electrode sheet and the detection electrode sheet is one to two, the real-time mutual capacitance value of the detection electrode sheet is collected; the real-time mutual capacitance values ​​of the two detection electrode sheets in the mutual capacitance combination are differentially calculated to obtain the real-time mutual capacitance data, and the reference indicator in the preset condition is determined to be the preset capacitance differential threshold.

[0014] Furthermore, the execution action of the water pump is controlled by the current water level and the user's water inlet instruction, specifically including: obtaining the target water level in the user's water inlet instruction; when the current water level is lower than the target water level, determining the remaining water inlet parameters according to the current water level and the target water level, and adjusting the real-time working power of the water pump based on the remaining water inlet parameters; when the current water level is equal to the target water level, stopping the water inlet and turning off the water pump; when the current water level is higher than the target water level, turning off the water pump and sending an excessive water inlet reminder to the user.

[0015] Furthermore, the real-time working power of the water pump is adjusted based on the remaining water inlet parameter, specifically including: when the remaining water inlet parameter is lower than a preset water volume threshold, determining that the power adjustment direction of the water pump is to reduce the pumping power; normalizing the remaining water inlet parameter by means of the pre-acquired reference capacity of the liquid container, and determining the current liquid level difference index; determining the operating power adjustment value of the water pump based on the current liquid level difference index and the initial pumping power; and adjusting the operating power of the water pump according to the power adjustment direction and the operating power adjustment value.

[0016] At least one of the above technical solutions adopted in the embodiments of this specification can achieve the following beneficial effects: through the above technical solution, the electrode sheets are combined into multiple mutual capacitance combinations through a preset program, and the detected water level corresponding to each combination is determined respectively, so that accurate monitoring of the liquid level can be achieved. Due to the sensitivity of the mutual capacitance sensor to medium changes, even small changes in the liquid level can be accurately captured, thereby improving the accuracy of liquid level detection; after the user's water inlet command is triggered, the real-time mutual capacitance data of multiple mutual capacitance combinations can be immediately obtained, and based on these data, the mutual capacitance combination with water detected in the liquid can be quickly determined. The real-time response capability enables the liquid heater to adjust the working state in time to avoid the high or low liquid level caused by the liquid level. Safety hazards; based on the detected water level corresponding to the water mutual capacitance combination, the system can determine the current water level information of the liquid container, and control the execution of the water pump according to this information and the user's water inlet instruction, thereby improving the automation level of the liquid heater, and can also be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs, such as stopping water inlet or adjusting the pumping power; by accurately monitoring the liquid level, timely measures can be taken when the liquid level reaches the dangerous threshold, such as stopping water inlet or turning off the heater, thereby effectively avoiding the occurrence of safety hazards such as dry burning and overflowing, and ensuring the safe use of users; adjusting the execution of the water pump according to the current water level information and the user's water inlet instruction can achieve rational use and conservation of energy and improve the energy efficiency of the liquid heater. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this specification or the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the prior art description. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in this specification. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative labor. In the drawings:

[0018] Figure 1 A schematic flow chart of a liquid level detection method for a liquid heater provided in an embodiment of this specification;

[0019] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the distribution of electrodes in a water level detection area provided in an embodiment of this specification;

[0020] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a change trend of mutual capacitance data in a single-ended mutual capacitance mode during water addition provided in an embodiment of this specification;

[0021] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a change trend of mutual capacitance data in a mutual capacitance differential mode during water addition provided in an embodiment of this specification;

[0022] Figure 5A schematic diagram of the change trend of mutual capacitance data of multiple mutual capacitance combinations in a mutual capacitance differential mode during a water adding process provided in an embodiment of this specification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] In order to enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions in this specification, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this specification will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of this specification. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of this specification, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this specification, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without creative work should fall within the scope of protection of this specification.

[0024] The embodiments of this specification provide a method for detecting the liquid level of a liquid heater. It should be noted that the execution subject in the embodiments of this specification may be a server or any device with data processing capabilities. Figure 1 A flow chart of a liquid level detection method for a liquid heater provided in an embodiment of this specification is shown as follows: Figure 1 As shown, it mainly includes the following steps:

[0025] Step S101 : combining the electrode sheets into a plurality of mutual capacitance combinations based on a preset program, and determining the detection water level corresponding to each mutual capacitance combination respectively.

[0026] In one embodiment of the present specification, the liquid heater includes a liquid container and a water pump, and a water level detection area arranged on the side wall of the liquid container, wherein a plurality of electrode sheets distributed longitudinally are arranged in the water level detection area. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the distribution of electrodes in a water level detection area provided in an embodiment of this specification. It should be noted that: Figure 2 In order to meet the requirements of 500~1400ml tea bar machine, the design of touch capacitance distribution example, in the actual design process, the number or position of the electrode sheet can be adjusted, only Figure 2 The embodiments of this specification are described by taking the example of Figure 2 As shown, a capacitance detection plate is provided in the kettle, including a plurality of staggered electrode sheets, wherein a certain space is reserved between two adjacent electrode sheets, which is used as a judgment node for the water level line, to ensure that only one electrode sheet in a single row of electrode sheets can detect capacitance changes at the same time, thereby improving the detection accuracy. The electrode sheets are arranged in a staggered manner, which can effectively avoid direct interference between adjacent electrode sheets, and a certain space is reserved between two adjacent electrode sheets, which is used as a judgment node for the water level line. It is ensured that only one electrode sheet in a single row of electrode sheets can detect capacitance changes at the same time, avoiding misjudgment caused by multiple electrode sheets detecting capacitance changes at the same time, thereby improving the detection accuracy.

[0027] In addition, during the design process, the 2W principle based on the PCB board ensures that a certain distance is maintained between the two adjacent electrode sheets on the left and right (data interference is likely to occur if the distance is too close). It should be noted that the 2W principle means that in PCB design, adjacent signal lines or components should maintain a sufficient distance to avoid mutual interference. This distance is usually defined as twice the line width (i.e. 2W). The design of the capacitor detection board in the kettle achieves accurate detection of the water level line through staggered electrode sheets, reserved space between upper and lower adjacent electrode sheets, and the 2W principle based on the PCB board. This not only improves the accuracy of the detection, but also avoids interference between adjacent electrode sheets, ensuring the reliability of the detection results.

[0028] In one embodiment of the present specification, the mutual capacitance combination includes an excitation electrode sheet as an excitation end and a detection electrode sheet as a receiving end. After the detection electrode sheet receives the excitation signal sent by the excitation electrode sheet, the real-time mutual capacitance data is generated. The real-time mutual capacitance data is related to the water contact area of ​​the detection electrode sheet.

[0029] exist Figure 2 In the electrode distribution shown, the right electrode sheet is used as the excitation end, the left electrode sheet is used as the receiving end, and the 12 electrode sheets are combined into 5 mutual capacitance combinations. The first column (left side) is set as the detection end of the mutual capacitance, and the second column here is used to detect the highest water level, that is, the anti-overflow water level of 1400-1500ml. When it exceeds 1400ml, the anti-overflow control starts. The logic of mutual capacitance water level detection is not easy to apply to overflow prevention. Therefore, the column where the electrode for detecting the highest liquid level is located is generally used as the excitation end of the mutual capacitance. It should be noted that in the actual application process, if overflow prevention is not considered, the right electrode sheet can also be designed as the receiving end and the left electrode sheet as the excitation end. The embodiments of this specification are not specifically limited here.

[0030] The right electrode sheet is used as the excitation end, and the left electrode sheet is used as the receiving end for explanation. There are many forms of mutual capacitance combinations. The first one uses mutual capacitance as a single-end mutual capacitance method, that is, the excitation electrode sheet and the detection electrode sheet are in a one-to-one relationship. For example: electrode sheet G24 and / or electrode sheet G23 are the excitation ends, and at the same time serve as excitation electrode sheets, sending excitation signals to electrode sheet G29. Electrode sheet G29 is the detection electrode sheet at the receiving end, which is used to receive the excitation signal sent by the excitation electrode sheet. The detection water level corresponding to this capacitance combination is about 600ml. Electrode sheet G22 is the excitation electrode sheet, serving as the excitation end, and electrode sheet G25 is the detection electrode sheet, serving as the receiving end. Electrode sheet G22 sends an excitation signal to electrode sheet G25. The detection water level that can be detected by the detection electrode sheet G25 is about 800ml. Electrode G21 is an excitation electrode, serving as an excitation end, and electrode G26 is a detection electrode, serving as a receiving end. Electrode G21 sends an excitation signal to electrode G26, and the water level detected by detecting electrode G26 is about 1000ml. Similarly, electrode G20 and electrode G27 are combined into a mutual capacitance combination, wherein electrode G20 is an excitation electrode, which sends an excitation signal, and electrode G27 is a detection electrode, which is used to generate real-time mutual capacitance data after receiving the excitation signal sent by the excitation electrode. The mutual capacitance combination of electrode G20 and electrode G27 can detect a liquid level of about 1200ml; electrode G19 and electrode G28 are combined into a mutual capacitance combination, wherein electrode G19 is an excitation electrode, which sends an excitation signal, and electrode G28 is a detection electrode. The detection liquid level corresponding to this mutual capacitance combination is about 1400ml. For example, the detection of 1200ml uses G20 excitation and G27 reception.

[0031] The second type is that the excitation electrode sheet and the detection electrode sheet are in a one-to-two relationship, that is, one excitation end and two receiving ends. For example, electrode sheet G23 and / or electrode sheet G24 are excitation electrode sheets, serving as excitation ends, electrode sheet G25 and electrode sheet G29 are detection electrode sheets, serving as receiving ends, and detecting a 600ml liquid level; electrode sheet G22 is an excitation electrode sheet, serving as an excitation end, electrode sheet G25 and electrode sheet G26 are detection electrode sheets, serving as receiving ends, and detecting an 800ml liquid level; electrode sheet G21 is an excitation electrode sheet, serving as an excitation end, electrode sheet G26 and electrode sheet G27 are detection electrode sheets, serving as receiving ends, and detecting a 1000ml liquid level; electrode sheet G20 is an excitation electrode sheet, serving as an excitation end, electrode sheet G27 and electrode sheet G28 are detection electrode sheets, serving as receiving ends, and detecting a 1200ml liquid level.

[0032] In one embodiment of the present specification, the mutual capacitance combination is composed of an excitation electrode sheet as an excitation end and a detection electrode sheet as a receiving end. The excitation electrode sheet is responsible for sending excitation signals, while the detection electrode sheet is responsible for receiving these signals and generating real-time mutual capacitance data. When the excitation electrode sheet sends excitation signals, the detection electrode sheet receives these signals and generates real-time mutual capacitance data based on the changes in the signals. The real-time mutual capacitance data reflects the capacitive coupling between the excitation electrode sheet and the detection electrode sheet, especially when the detection electrode sheet is in contact with water, its water contact area will affect the size of the capacitance value. The real-time mutual capacitance data is closely related to the water contact area of ​​the detection electrode sheet. Mutual capacitance refers to the capacitance between two adjacent electrodes, which depends on the electric field coupling between the two electrodes. When water falls on the mutual capacitance touch screen, it changes the electric field coupling between the electrodes on the touch screen. Due to the influence of the conductivity and dielectric constant of water, some electric field lines will propagate through the water layer, which may cause the electric field lines that should have been coupled to the adjacent electrodes to be "short-circuited" by the water layer or redirected to other paths. When the water level rises, causing the water contact area of ​​the detection electrode sheet to increase, although the water increases the contact area with the electrode, it actually reduces the effective electric field coupling between the electrodes, resulting in a decrease in the mutual capacitance value.

[0033] Step S102, under the triggering of the user's water inlet instruction, real-time mutual capacitance data of multiple mutual capacitance combinations are obtained, and based on the real-time mutual capacitance data and preset conditions, a water-containing mutual capacitance combination in which liquid is detected is determined among the multiple mutual capacitance combinations.

[0034] In one embodiment of the present specification, a water inlet instruction triggered by a user is received, and the water inlet instruction includes production information such as water inlet volume, water temperature, heating or cooking, and real-time mutual capacitance data of multiple mutual capacitance combinations are obtained under the triggering of the user's water inlet instruction. It should be noted that since the generation of mutual capacitance data is independent of liquid fluctuations, the real-time mutual capacitance data obtained here includes two scenarios, one is a static liquid level detection scenario when there is no liquid level fluctuation before water is added, and the other is a dynamic liquid level detection scenario when there is liquid level fluctuation during water addition.

[0035] In one embodiment of the present specification, a mutual capacitance combination with water detected in a plurality of mutual capacitance combinations is determined based on real-time mutual capacitance data and preset conditions. It can be understood that the mutual capacitance combination with water here includes two cases, one is a mutual capacitance combination for detecting the liquid level, that is, the actual detected liquid level corresponding to this mutual capacitance combination can be used to determine the current water level later. The other is a mutual capacitance combination for detecting liquid. It should be noted that the mutual capacitance combination for detecting liquid is different from the mutual capacitance combination for detecting the liquid level, and the mutual capacitance combination for detecting liquid includes the mutual capacitance combination for detecting the liquid level. For example, when the liquid level is 1000ml, the mutual capacitance combination for detecting the liquid level is the mutual capacitance combination corresponding to the excitation electrode sheet G21 and the detection electrode sheet G26; however, in addition to the mutual capacitance combination corresponding to the excitation electrode sheet G21 and the detection electrode sheet G26, the mutual capacitance combination for detecting liquid also detects liquid, the mutual capacitance combination corresponding to the excitation electrode sheet G22 and the detection electrode sheet G25, and the mutual capacitance combination corresponding to the excitation electrode sheets G23, G24 and the detection electrode sheet G29.

[0036] The following embodiments are embodiments corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination for detecting the liquid level.

[0037] Determining a mutual capacitance combination with water in which liquid is detected from the multiple mutual capacitance combinations based on the real-time mutual capacitance data and the preset conditions specifically includes: judging the multiple mutual capacitance combinations based on the real-time mutual capacitance data and the preset conditions; when the real-time mutual capacitance data of any mutual capacitance combination meets the preset conditions, determining that the current water level exceeds the first detected water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination; when the real-time mutual capacitance data of any mutual capacitance combination does not meet the preset conditions, recording the second detected water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination; and determining the mutual capacitance combination with water based on the first detected water level and the second detected water level.

[0038] In one embodiment of the present specification, a determination condition is preset, and a determination is made whether multiple mutual capacitance combinations meet the preset conditions through the real-time mutual capacitance data and preset conditions corresponding to each mutual capacitance combination. When the real-time mutual capacitance data of any mutual capacitance combination meets the preset conditions, it means that the current water level has exceeded the above mutual capacitance combination, and the above mutual capacitance combination has detected liquid, and it is determined that the current water level exceeds the first detection water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination, where the first detection water level includes at least one detection water level where liquid is detected. When the real-time mutual capacitance data of any mutual capacitance combination does not meet the preset conditions, it means that such mutual capacitance combination has not detected liquid, and the second detection water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination where liquid is not detected is recorded; based on the first detection water level and the second detection water level, the water-containing mutual capacitance combination is determined.

[0039] The process of detecting whether the real-time mutual capacitance data meets the preset conditions specifically includes: within the preset sampling period t, continuously acquiring the real-time mutual capacitance data of each mutual capacitance combination in each acquisition process; when the real-time mutual capacitance data is less than the preset reference index for n consecutive times, it is determined that the real-time mutual capacitance data meets the preset conditions; when the real-time mutual capacitance data is greater than the reference index, it is determined that the real-time mutual capacitance data does not meet the preset conditions; wherein n is the number of valid data, which is negatively correlated with the sampling period and the pumping power.

[0040] In one embodiment of the present specification, in order to avoid possible misjudgments in a single judgment process, when it is determined that the preset conditions are met, the judgment is made by comparing the real-time mutual capacitance data with the reference index multiple times. Within the preset sampling period t, the real-time mutual capacitance data of each mutual capacitance combination collected during each collection process is continuously acquired. When the real-time mutual capacitance data is determined to be less than the preset reference index for n consecutive times, it means that the mutual capacitance combination has detected liquid, that is, the liquid has submerged or is close to submerging the detection electrode sheet in the mutual capacitance combination, and the real-time mutual capacitance data is determined to meet the preset conditions. When the real-time mutual capacitance data is less than the reference index, it is determined that the real-time mutual capacitance data does not meet the preset conditions. n is the number of valid data, which is negatively correlated with the sampling period and the pumping power, for example, it can be set to 4 times.

[0041] According to the first detected water level and the second detected water level, the water-containing mutual capacitance combination is determined, specifically including: determining the maximum detected water level among the first detected water levels; when the second detected water levels are all higher than the maximum detected water level, determining that the mutual capacitance combination corresponding to the maximum detected water level is the water-containing mutual capacitance combination.

[0042] In one embodiment of the present specification, the first detected water level is determined to be the water level at which liquid is detected, and the second detected water level is the water level at which liquid is not detected. Generally, if a certain water level cannot detect the liquid level, the high water level above this water level cannot be detected either. That is, in the first detected water level at which liquid is detected, the maximum detected water level at the highest point may be the current water level, but in order to verify the current water level, it should also be satisfied that the second detected water level at which no liquid is detected is higher than this water level. When the above two conditions are met, the mutual capacitance combination corresponding to the maximum detected water level is determined to be the mutual capacitance combination with water. That is to say, in the above embodiment, according to the order of the detected water levels from bottom to top, all liquids are detected below the water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination with water, and all liquids are not detected above the water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination with water.

[0043] In one embodiment of the present specification, the judgment can also be made in the order of detecting water levels from high to low, that is, when the mutual capacitance combination at a high position cannot detect liquid, and the mutual capacitance combinations at a low position all detect liquid, the mutual capacitance combination with water corresponding to the current liquid level is determined.

[0044] The following embodiments are embodiments corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination with water being a mutual capacitance combination that detects liquid. When the mutual capacitance combination with water is a mutual capacitance combination that detects liquid, the multiple mutual capacitance combinations are also judged based on the real-time mutual capacitance data and preset conditions. When the real-time mutual capacitance data of any mutual capacitance combination meets the preset conditions, it is determined that the current water level exceeds the first detection water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination, indicating that the current water level has exceeded the above mutual capacitance combination, and the above mutual capacitance combination has detected liquid. The above mutual capacitance combination can be called a mutual capacitance combination with water, and liquid has been detected in all the above mutual capacitance combinations. Correspondingly, when the real-time mutual capacitance data of any mutual capacitance combination does not meet the preset conditions, it means that no liquid has been detected, in which case it can be called a mutual capacitance combination without water. The process of detecting whether the real-time mutual capacitance data meets the preset conditions here is the same as the detection method in the embodiment corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination with water being a mutual capacitance combination that detects the liquid level.

[0045] The difference between the above two embodiments is that the definition of the mutual capacitance combination with water is whether liquid is detected or liquid level is detected. If liquid is detected, then in the subsequent steps, the detection water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination with water should be judged in order from low to high, and the highest water level among the detection water levels corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination with water should be determined as the current water level. The current water level is verified using the detection water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination without water to ensure that all the mutual capacitance combinations with low water levels of the current water level detect water, and all the mutual capacitance combinations with high water levels of the current water level detect no water. It should be noted that the implementation logic of the above two embodiments is the same, and the difference is that the implementation steps under different definitions of the mutual capacitance combination with water are different.

[0046] In the above embodiment, in the process of detecting whether the real-time mutual capacitance data meets the preset conditions, if the combination forms of the real-time mutual capacitance combination are different, the corresponding real-time mutual capacitance data values ​​and the preset reference indicators are different. When the correspondence between the excitation electrode sheet and the detection electrode sheet is one-to-one, the real-time mutual capacitance value of each detection electrode sheet in the mutual capacitance combination is collected, the real-time mutual capacitance value is determined as the real-time mutual capacitance data, and the reference indicator is determined as the preset water capacitance threshold. Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a change trend of mutual capacitance data in a single-ended mutual capacitance mode during water addition provided in an embodiment of this specification, such as Figure 3As shown, the change trend of the real-time mutual capacitance value of the detection electrode sheet in each mutual capacitance combination during the water addition process. When the correspondence between the excitation electrode sheet and the detection electrode sheet is one-to-one, the mutual capacitance combination is composed of two groups of capacitors, one capacitor as excitation and the other capacitor as reception. When there is no liquid or liquid in the container, the capacitance value of the detection electrode sheet itself will change. The excitation electrode sheet sends an excitation signal to generate an electric field line between the excitation electrode and the receiving electrode. When the grounded liquid in the kettle covers the electrode sheet, it is equivalent to connecting a capacitor in series, the charging time is shortened, and the capacitance value is relatively reduced. Through the mutual capacitance value collection experiment of the detection electrode sheet in the mutual capacitance combination during the water addition process, it is found that the mutual capacitance value is basically stable in a certain value or range in the waterless state. After continuous water addition, as the liquid level rises, the mutual capacitance value gradually decreases until it is submerged and stabilizes in a certain range or value. The real-time mutual capacitance value of the detection electrode under the above mutual capacitance combination is less affected by temperature, but is greatly affected by water quality. Generally, the larger the TDS of water, the smaller the mutual capacitance value, and the mutual capacitance value will deviate under the structural assembly of different containers. Therefore, it is necessary to calibrate in advance according to different kettles, and determine the water capacitance threshold corresponding to each detection electrode while considering the water quality.

[0047] Before determining that the reference indicator is a preset water-containing capacitance threshold, the method further includes: obtaining a water-free capacitance value and a water-containing capacitance value corresponding to each mutual capacitance combination under preset water quality, and determining a capacitance difference between the water-containing capacitance value and the water-free capacitance value; and determining the water-containing capacitance threshold corresponding to each mutual capacitance combination through the capacitance difference and a preset adjustment factor.

[0048] In one embodiment of the present specification, in order to reduce the impact of the kettle structural assembly, the kettle needs to be calibrated. At the same time, total dissolved solids (TDS) refers to the total amount of solid matter dissolved in water, including the sum of inorganic salts and organic matter. High TDS water quality may cause the data read by the capacitance sensor to be too large, thereby interfering with the kettle's judgment of low TDS water quality. Therefore, actual calibration with pure water (TDS=1) can ensure that the kettle has sufficient sensitivity when detecting low TDS water quality. Under pure water quality, the water-free capacitance value of the detection electrode sheet in each mutual capacitance combination is collected in the absence of water. After the liquid submerges the detection electrode sheet after continuous water addition, the water capacitance value is collected. The capacitance difference between the water-containing capacitance value and the water-free capacitance value is calculated, and the water capacitance threshold corresponding to each mutual capacitance combination is determined according to the capacitance difference and the preset adjustment factor. It should be noted that the adjustment factor here can be set according to empirical data, for example, set to 80%. The water capacitance threshold corresponding to the detection capacitor electrode in each mutual capacitance combination is different. When determining the size relationship between the real-time mutual capacitance data and the reference indicator, the water capacitance threshold of the detection electrode piece corresponding to the real-time mutual capacitance data should be matched as the reference indicator, and the size relationship should be determined separately.

[0049] Through calibration processing, the deviations that may occur in the manufacturing and assembly process of the kettle can be corrected to ensure that the capacitive sensor can accurately reflect the water level status and reduce misjudgment caused by improper assembly; using pure water (TDS=1) for calibration can ensure that the kettle has sufficient sensitivity when detecting low TDS water quality. Since high TDS water quality may cause the data read by the capacitive sensor to be too large, pure water calibration can avoid this situation, allowing the kettle to accurately judge the water level under various water qualities; by collecting the capacitance values ​​of the detection electrode sheets in each mutual capacitance combination in the absence and presence of water, and calculating the capacitance difference, and then combining the predicted By setting an adjustment factor (such as 80%) to determine the water capacitance threshold corresponding to each mutual capacitance combination, personalized threshold setting can be achieved, so that each detection electrode sheet has a corresponding and more accurate reference indicator when determining the real-time mutual capacitance data, thereby improving the stability of the kettle in determining the water level; when determining the size relationship between the real-time mutual capacitance data and the reference indicator, the water capacitance threshold of the detection electrode sheet is matched as a reference indicator according to the detection electrode sheet corresponding to the real-time mutual capacitance data, which can ensure that the data of each detection electrode sheet is correctly processed and judged, thereby reducing misjudgments caused by data mismatch or improper processing.

[0050] When the correspondence between the excitation electrode and the detection electrode is one to two, the mutual capacitance differential method can be used. If you need to detect 1200ml, you can use electrode G20 as the excitation, and electrode G27 and electrode G28 as the receiving electrode at the same time as the detection electrode, and use the capacitance difference between electrode G27 and electrode G28 as the detection basis. Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the variation trend of mutual capacitance data in a mutual capacitance differential mode during water addition provided in an embodiment of this specification, such as Figure 4 The figure shows the change trend of the capacitance difference between G27 and electrode sheet G28 during the water addition process. Taking 1200ml as an example, the mutual capacitance difference change process is as follows: Figure 4As shown, when the liquid level is lower than G27, the mutual capacitance difference value of G27 / G28 is 0; as the liquid level gradually rises, the mutual capacitance difference value gradually increases, and when the liquid level increases to between G27 / G28, the mutual capacitance difference value reaches the maximum; after the liquid level exceeds G27, the mutual capacitance difference value gradually decreases, and when the liquid level completely submerges G28, the mutual capacitance difference value is 0. Collect the real-time mutual capacitance value of the detection electrode sheet; perform differential calculation on the real-time mutual capacitance values ​​of the two detection electrode sheets in the mutual capacitance combination to obtain real-time mutual capacitance data, that is, the real-time mutual capacitance data is the real-time mutual capacitance difference value of the two detection electrode sheets, and determine that the reference index in the preset condition is the preset capacitance difference threshold value, where the preset capacitance difference threshold value can be obtained through the standard change curve, or a water inflow test can be performed on each mutual capacitance combination, and the differential test data of the two detection electrode sheets corresponding to each mutual capacitance combination is collected, and the capacitance difference threshold value is set according to the differential test data of multiple mutual capacitance combinations as a trigger value. Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the variation trend of mutual capacitance data of multiple mutual capacitance combinations in a mutual capacitance differential mode during a water addition process provided in an embodiment of this specification is shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , as the water is added, multiple mutual capacitance combinations present similar change trends. When the mutual capacitance difference of a mutual capacitance combination exceeds the trigger value, it is considered that the liquid level reaches the position corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination.

[0051] Step S103, based on the detected water level corresponding to the water mutual capacitance combination, determine the current water level information of the liquid container, so as to control the execution action of the water pump through the current water level information and the user's water inlet instruction.

[0052] The execution action includes stopping water inlet and adjusting pumping power.

[0053] In one embodiment of the present specification, when the water mutual capacitance combination is a mutual capacitance combination that detects the liquid level, the current water level information of the liquid container can be determined according to the detected water level corresponding to the water mutual capacitance combination. After determining the current water level information, the execution action of the water pump is controlled by the current water level information and the user's water inlet instruction, wherein the execution action includes stopping water inlet and adjusting the water pumping power.

[0054] The execution action of the water pump is controlled by the current water level and the user's water inlet instruction, specifically including: obtaining the target water level in the user's water inlet instruction; when the current water level is lower than the target water level, determining the remaining water inlet parameters according to the current water level and the target water level, and adjusting the real-time working power of the water pump based on the remaining water inlet parameters; when the current water level is equal to the target water level, stopping the water inlet and turning off the water pump; when the current water level is higher than the target water level, turning off the water pump and sending an excessive water inlet reminder to the user.

[0055] In one embodiment of the present specification, the user inputs the target water level through the user interface to obtain the target water level in the user's water inlet instruction. The current water level is compared with the target water level. If the current water level is less than the target water level, it means that water needs to be continuously inletted. According to the current water level and the target water level, the remaining water inlet parameter is determined, and the real-time working power of the water pump is adjusted based on the remaining water inlet parameter. When the current water level is equal to the target water level, the water inlet is stopped and the water pump is turned off; when the current water level is greater than the target water level, the water pump is turned off and an excessive water inlet reminder is issued to the user.

[0056] Through the above technical solution, the target water level set by the user is obtained, and the working power of the water pump is dynamically adjusted according to the comparison result between the current water level and the target water level. The precise control ensures that the water level can accurately reach the height expected by the user, avoiding the problem caused by the water level being too high or too low. By adjusting the real-time working power of the water pump according to the remaining water inlet parameters, the energy can be maximized while ensuring the accurate control of the water level. When approaching the target water level, the power of the water pump is reduced to reduce unnecessary energy consumption and avoid the situation where the water level exceeds the target water level due to the control time difference. The relationship between the current water level and the target water level is automatically judged, and corresponding operation decisions are made accordingly, reducing the complexity of user operation; when the system detects that the current water level exceeds the target water level, the water pump will be immediately shut down, and an excessive water inflow reminder will be issued to the user. Through the safety warning mechanism, potential safety hazards can be discovered and handled in time to ensure the safe operation of the liquid heater.

[0057] The real-time working power of the water pump is adjusted based on the remaining water inlet parameter, specifically including: when the remaining water inlet parameter is lower than a preset water volume threshold, determining that the power adjustment direction of the water pump is to reduce the pumping power; normalizing the remaining water inlet parameter through the reference capacity of the liquid container obtained in advance, and determining the current liquid level difference index; determining the operating power adjustment value of the water pump based on the current liquid level difference index and the initial pumping power; and adjusting the operating power of the water pump according to the power adjustment direction and the operating power adjustment value.

[0058] In one embodiment of the present specification, the current remaining water inflow parameter is detected, where the remaining water inflow parameter is the amount of water that needs to be inflow before the target water level set by the user is reached. When the remaining water inflow parameter is lower than the preset water volume threshold, it means that the container is close to being full of water or has reached a stage where a large amount of water does not need to be pumped. When the remaining water volume is small, continuing to pump water at high power may cause water overflow or energy waste. In this case, the power of the water pump is reduced.

[0059] By pre-acquired reference capacity of the liquid container, the reference capacity here can be the maximum capacity of the liquid container, the remaining water inflow parameter is normalized to determine the current liquid level difference index, which can be obtained by the ratio of the remaining water inflow to the maximum capacity. Determine the maximum liquid level difference index corresponding to the reference capacity, which is the ratio of the maximum water inflow to the maximum capacity in the empty kettle state. The maximum water inflow is generally slightly smaller than the maximum capacity, that is, the maximum liquid level difference index here is a value close to 1. Based on the maximum liquid level difference index, the ratio of the initial pumping power, and the current liquid level difference index, determine the reference pumping power. The ratio of the current liquid level difference index to the reference pumping power should be equal to the ratio of the maximum liquid level difference index to the initial pumping power. That is, the reference pumping power is the current liquid level difference index multiplied by the initial pumping power, and then divided by the maximum liquid level difference index. The operating power adjustment value of the pump is determined by the difference between the initial pumping power and the reference pumping power. The operating power of the water pump is adjusted according to the power adjustment direction and the operating power adjustment value.

[0060] When it is detected that the remaining water inlet parameter is lower than the preset water volume threshold, the power of the water pump can be automatically reduced, effectively avoiding the problem of container water overflow caused by continued high-power pumping, and also reducing unnecessary energy consumption; by normalizing the remaining water inlet parameter, the current liquid level difference index is determined, and the power of the water pump is adjusted based on the index, making the pumping process more accurate and efficient, and the dynamic adjustment strategy can respond flexibly according to actual needs; by intelligently adjusting the power, the operating time of the water pump under high load is reduced, thereby extending the service life of the equipment, reducing maintenance costs, and ensuring that the container will not overflow due to excessive pumping when it is close to full water. At the same time, it also avoids problems such as noise and vibration caused by excessive power, providing users with a more comfortable and convenient user experience.

[0061] Through the above technical solution, the electrode sheets are combined into multiple mutual capacitance combinations through a preset program, and the detected water level corresponding to each combination is determined respectively, so that accurate monitoring of the liquid level can be achieved. Due to the sensitivity of the mutual capacitance sensor to medium changes, even small changes in the liquid level can be accurately captured, thereby improving the accuracy of liquid level detection; after the user's water inlet command is triggered, the real-time mutual capacitance data of multiple mutual capacitance combinations can be immediately obtained, and based on these data, the mutual capacitance combination with water detected in the liquid can be quickly determined. The real-time response capability enables the liquid heater to adjust the working state in time to avoid the safety hazards caused by excessively high or low liquid levels; based on the corresponding mutual capacitance combination with water By detecting the water level, the system can determine the current water level information of the liquid container, and control the execution of the water pump according to this information and the user's water inlet instruction, thereby improving the automation level of the liquid heater and being able to make flexible adjustments according to actual needs, such as stopping water inlet or adjusting the pumping power; by accurately monitoring the liquid level, timely measures can be taken when the liquid level reaches the dangerous threshold, such as stopping water inlet or turning off the heater, thereby effectively avoiding the occurrence of safety hazards such as dry burning and overflowing, and ensuring the safe use of the user; adjusting the execution of the water pump according to the current water level information and the user's water inlet instruction can achieve rational use and conservation of energy and improve the energy efficiency of the liquid heater.

[0062] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiments of this specification may be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this specification may take the form of a complete hardware embodiment, a complete software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware. Moreover, this specification may take the form of a computer program product implemented on one or more computer-usable storage media (including but not limited to disk storage, CD-ROM, optical storage, etc.) that contain computer-usable program code.

[0063] This specification is described with reference to the flowcharts and / or block diagrams of the methods, devices (systems), and computer program products according to the embodiments of this specification. It should be understood that each process and / or box in the flowchart and / or block diagram, as well as the combination of the processes and / or boxes in the flowchart and / or block diagram, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, an embedded processor, or other programmable data processing device to produce a machine, so that the instructions executed by the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing device generate instructions for implementing the processes in the flowchart and / or block diagram. Figure 1 A process or multiple processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in a block or multiple blocks.

[0064] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory capable of directing a computer or other programmable data processing device to operate in a specific manner, so that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture comprising an instruction device, which implements the process Figure 1 A process or multiple processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A function specified in one or more boxes.

[0065] These computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing device so that a series of operating steps are executed on the computer or other programmable device to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions for implementing the process. Figure 1 A process or multiple processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A step that specifies a function in one or more boxes.

[0066] In a typical configuration, a computing device includes one or more processors (CPU), input / output interfaces, network interfaces, and memory.

[0067] The memory may include non-permanent storage in a computer-readable medium, random access memory (RAM) and / or non-volatile memory in the form of read-only memory (ROM) or flash RAM. The memory is an example of a computer-readable medium.

[0068] Computer readable media include permanent and non-permanent, removable and non-removable media that can be implemented by any method or technology to store information. Information can be computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Examples of computer storage media 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 memory technology, compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices or any other non-transmission media that can be used to store information that can be accessed by a computing device. As defined herein, computer readable media does not include temporary computer readable media (transitory media), such as modulated data signals and carrier waves.

[0069] It should also be noted that the terms "include", "comprises" or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, so that a process, method, commodity or device including a series of elements includes not only those elements, but also other elements not explicitly listed, or also includes elements inherent to such process, method, commodity or device. In the absence of more restrictions, the elements defined by the sentence "comprises a ..." do not exclude the existence of other identical elements in the process, method, commodity or device including the elements.

[0070] The above description is only one or more embodiments of this specification and is not intended to limit this specification. For those skilled in the art, one or more embodiments of this specification may have various changes and variations. Any modification, equivalent replacement, improvement, etc. made within the spirit and principle of one or more embodiments of this specification shall be included in the scope of the claims of this specification.

Claims

1. A method for detecting a liquid level of a liquid heater, the liquid heater comprising a liquid container and a water pump, and a water level detection area arranged on the side wall of the liquid container, wherein a plurality of electrode sheets distributed longitudinally are arranged in the water level detection area, characterized in that: The method comprises: Combining the electrode sheets into a plurality of mutual capacitance combinations based on a preset program, and determining the detection water level corresponding to each mutual capacitance combination respectively; When triggered by a water inlet instruction from a user, real-time mutual capacitance data of the plurality of mutual capacitance combinations are acquired, and a water-containing mutual capacitance combination in which liquid is detected is determined from the plurality of mutual capacitance combinations based on the real-time mutual capacitance data and preset conditions; Based on the detected water level corresponding to the water mutual capacitance combination, the current water level information of the liquid container is determined, so as to control the execution action of the water pump through the current water level information and the user's water inlet instruction, wherein the execution action includes stopping water inlet and adjusting the water pumping power.

2. The liquid level detection method of a liquid heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: Determining a water-containing mutual capacitance combination in which liquid is detected from the multiple mutual capacitance combinations based on the real-time mutual capacitance data and preset conditions specifically includes: Determining the plurality of mutual capacitance combinations based on the real-time mutual capacitance data and a preset condition; When the real-time mutual capacitance data of any mutual capacitance combination meets a preset condition, determining that the current water level exceeds a first detection water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination; When the real-time mutual capacitance data of any mutual capacitance combination does not meet the preset condition, recording the second detection water level corresponding to the mutual capacitance combination; The water-presence mutual capacitance combination is determined according to the first detected water level and the second detected water level.

3. The liquid level detection method of a liquid heater according to claim 2, characterized in that: Determining the water mutual capacitance combination according to the first detected water level and the second detected water level specifically includes: Determining a maximum detected water level among the first detected water levels; When the second detected water levels are all higher than the maximum detected water level, it is determined that the mutual capacitance combination corresponding to the maximum detected water level is the water-containing mutual capacitance combination.

4. The method for detecting the liquid level of a liquid heater according to claim 3, characterized in that: The process of detecting whether the real-time mutual capacitance data meets the preset condition specifically includes: Within a preset sampling period t, continuously acquiring real-time mutual capacitance data of each mutual capacitance combination in each acquisition process; When the real-time mutual capacitance data is smaller than a preset reference index for n consecutive times, it is determined that the real-time mutual capacitance data meets the preset condition; When the real-time mutual capacitance data is greater than the reference index, determining that the real-time mutual capacitance data does not meet the preset condition; Wherein n is the number of valid data, which is negatively correlated with the sampling period and pumping power.

5. A liquid level detection method for a liquid heater according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The mutual capacitance combination includes an excitation electrode sheet as an excitation end and a detection electrode sheet as a receiving end. After the detection electrode sheet receives the excitation signal sent by the excitation electrode sheet, the real-time mutual capacitance data is generated. The real-time mutual capacitance data is related to the water contact area of ​​the detection electrode sheet.

6. The method for detecting the liquid level of a liquid heater according to claim 4, characterized in that: When the correspondence between the excitation electrode sheet and the detection electrode sheet is one-to-one, the real-time mutual capacitance value of the detection electrode sheet in each mutual capacitance combination is collected, the real-time mutual capacitance value is determined as real-time mutual capacitance data, and the reference indicator is determined as a preset water capacitance threshold.

7. A liquid level detection method for a liquid heater according to claim 6, characterized in that: Before determining that the reference indicator is a preset water capacitance threshold, the method further includes: Obtaining a capacitance value without water and a capacitance value with water corresponding to each mutual capacitance combination under preset water quality, and determining a capacitance difference between the capacitance value with water and the capacitance value without water; The water capacitance threshold corresponding to each mutual capacitance combination is determined by using the capacitance difference and a preset adjustment factor.

8. The method for detecting the liquid level of a liquid heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the corresponding relationship between the excitation electrode sheet and the detection electrode sheet is one-to-two, collecting the real-time mutual capacitance value of the detection electrode sheet; The real-time mutual capacitance values ​​of the two detection electrode sheets in the mutual capacitance combination are differentially calculated to obtain the real-time mutual capacitance data, and the reference indicator in the preset condition is determined to be a preset capacitance differential threshold.

9. The method for detecting the liquid level of a liquid heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The execution action of the water pump is controlled by the current water level and the user's water inlet instruction, specifically including: Obtaining the target water level in the water inlet instruction of the user; When the current water level is lower than the target water level, determining a remaining water inflow parameter according to the current water level and the target water level, and adjusting the real-time working power of the water pump based on the remaining water inflow parameter; When the current water level is equal to the target water level, water intake is stopped and the water pump is turned off; When the current water level is greater than the target water level, the water pump is turned off and an excessive water inflow reminder is issued to the user.

10. The method for detecting the liquid level of a liquid heater according to claim 6, characterized in that: Adjust the real-time working power of the water pump based on the remaining water inlet parameters, including: When the remaining water inflow parameter is lower than a preset water volume threshold, determining that the power adjustment direction of the water pump is to reduce the water pumping power; The remaining water inflow parameter is normalized by using the reference capacity of the liquid container obtained in advance to determine the current liquid level difference index; Determining an operating power adjustment value of the water pump based on the current liquid level difference index and the initial water pumping power; The operating power of the water pump is adjusted according to the power adjustment direction and the operating power adjustment value.

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