Water heater, control method and device thereof, readable storage medium and program product

Abstract

The invention relates to a water heater control method and device, a water heater, a computer readable storage medium and a computer program product. The method comprises the steps that the target output power of the combustion system is obtained; determining a target driving signal of the fan assembly according to the target output power; in the process of controlling the fan assembly to operate based on the target driving signal, the current rotating speed of the fan assembly is obtained; and the opening degree of the fuel gas inlet assembly is adjusted according to the current rotating speed, so that the proportion of air entering the mixing cavity through the fan assembly to fuel gas entering the mixing cavity through the fuel gas inlet assembly is within a preset proportion range. By means of the method, the amount of fuel gas entering the mixing cavity can be matched with the amount of air, and then the proportion of the air and the fuel gas in the mixing cavity is kept within the preset proportion range. When the mixed gas in the mixing cavity is supplied to the combustion system, the combustion efficiency of the gas system can be improved, the situations of flame separation, backfire and the like possibly occurring in the combustion process are improved, and the operation safety of the water heater is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of water heaters, and in particular, to a control method, device, water heater, computer-readable storage medium, and computer program product for a water heater. Background Art

[0002] At present, water heaters are highly popular in people's daily lives. They can efficiently heat water with a combustion device and quickly provide hot water, greatly facilitating people's lives. Among them, premixed gas water heaters can ensure that gas can fully contact oxygen in the combustion system by fully mixing air and gas before combustion, thus achieving more complete and efficient combustion. This combustion method not only significantly improves the combustion efficiency but also effectively reduces the emission index, making it more energy-saving and environmentally friendly.

[0003] However, premixed gas water heaters have very strict requirements for the ratio of air to gas. If the gas is too little, the combustion system will experience a flame lift phenomenon, affecting the combustion efficiency; while if the gas is too much, it may cause flashback, posing a safety hazard to the water heater.

[0004] Therefore, how to effectively control the ratio of air and gas entering the combustion system is an urgent problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Based on this, in view of the above technical problems, it is necessary to provide a control method, device, water heater, computer-readable storage medium, and computer program product for a water heater that can effectively control the ratio of air and gas.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present application provides a control method for a water heater. The water heater includes a combustion system, a mixing chamber, a fan assembly, and a gas inlet assembly. The fan assembly is connected to the air inlet of the mixing chamber, the gas inlet assembly is connected to the gas inlet of the mixing chamber, and the outlet of the mixing chamber is connected to the combustion system. The control method includes:

[0007] Obtain the target output power of the combustion system;

[0008] Determine the target drive signal of the fan assembly according to the target output power;

[0009] During the process of controlling the operation of the fan assembly based on the target drive signal, obtain the current rotation speed of the fan assembly;

[0010] Adjust the opening degree of the gas inlet assembly according to the current rotation speed, so that the ratio between the air entering the mixing chamber through the fan assembly and the gas entering the mixing chamber through the gas inlet assembly is within a preset ratio range.

[0011] In one embodiment, determining the target drive signal of the fan assembly according to the target output power includes:

[0012] Based on a preset correspondence between drive signal parameters and power and the target output power, determining the target drive signal; the target drive signal is used to drive the fan assembly to operate; the preset correspondence between drive signal parameters and power is determined based on a target air-fuel ratio.

[0013] In one embodiment, the preset correspondence between drive signal parameters and power is a preset curve of drive signal parameters and power.

[0014] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0015] When the ratio between air and gas in the mixing chamber is the target air-fuel ratio, during the operation of the combustion system, obtaining a plurality of output power values of the combustion system, and obtaining the drive signal of the fan assembly corresponding to each of the output power values;

[0016] According to each of the output power values and the drive signal of the fan assembly corresponding to each of the output power values, obtaining the preset correspondence between drive signal parameters and power.

[0017] In one embodiment, adjusting the opening degree of the gas intake assembly according to the current speed includes:

[0018] Based on a preset correspondence between speed and opening degree and the current speed, determining an opening degree drive signal; the opening degree drive signal is used to control the opening degree of the gas intake assembly; the preset correspondence between speed and opening degree is determined based on a target air-fuel ratio.

[0019] In one embodiment, the preset correspondence between speed and opening degree is a preset curve of speed and opening degree.

[0020] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0021] When the ratio between air and gas in the mixing chamber is the target air-fuel ratio, during the operation of the combustion system, obtaining a plurality of output power values of the combustion system, and obtaining the speed of the fan assembly and the opening degree of the gas intake assembly corresponding to each of the output power values;

[0022] According to the speed of the fan assembly and the opening degree of the gas intake assembly corresponding to each of the output power values, obtaining the preset correspondence between speed and opening degree.

[0023] In one embodiment, obtaining the target output power of the combustion system includes:

[0024] Obtain the set outlet water temperature and the current water temperature of the combustion system;

[0025] Determine the target output power of the combustion system according to the set outlet water temperature and the current water temperature.

[0026] In a second aspect, the present application further provides a control device for a water heater. The water heater includes a combustion system, a mixing chamber, a fan assembly, and a gas inlet assembly. The fan assembly is connected to the air inlet of the mixing chamber, the gas inlet assembly is connected to the gas inlet of the mixing chamber, and the outlet of the mixing chamber is connected to the combustion system; the control device includes:

[0027] A power acquisition module, configured to acquire the target output power of the combustion system;

[0028] A fan drive module, configured to determine a target drive signal for the fan assembly according to the target output power;

[0029] A rotation speed acquisition module, configured to acquire the current rotation speed of the fan assembly during the process of controlling the operation of the fan assembly based on the target drive signal;

[0030] An opening adjustment module, configured to adjust the opening of the gas inlet assembly according to the current rotation speed, so that the ratio between the air entering the mixing chamber through the fan assembly and the gas entering the mixing chamber through the gas inlet assembly is within a preset ratio range.

[0031] In a third aspect, the present application further provides a water heater. The water heater includes a control system, a combustion system, a mixing chamber, a fan assembly, and a gas inlet assembly. The fan assembly is connected to the air inlet of the mixing chamber, the gas inlet assembly is connected to the gas inlet of the mixing chamber, and the outlet of the mixing chamber is connected to the combustion system;

[0032] The control system is respectively connected to the combustion system, the fan assembly, and the gas inlet assembly; the control system is configured to implement the steps of the method as described above.

[0033] In a fourth aspect, the present application further provides a computer-readable storage medium, on which a computer program is stored. When the computer program is executed by a processor, the following steps are implemented:

[0034] Obtain the target output power of the combustion system;

[0035] Determine the target drive signal for the fan assembly according to the target output power;

[0036] Acquire the current rotation speed of the fan assembly during the process of controlling the operation of the fan assembly based on the target drive signal;

[0037] Adjust the opening degree of the gas intake component according to the current rotation speed, so that the ratio between the air entering the mixing chamber through the fan component and the gas entering the mixing chamber through the gas intake component is within a preset ratio range.

[0038] In a fifth aspect, the present application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program, which when executed by a processor implements the following steps:

[0039] Obtain the target output power of the combustion system;

[0040] Determine the target drive signal of the fan component according to the target output power;

[0041] During the process of controlling the operation of the fan component based on the target drive signal, obtain the current rotation speed of the fan component;

[0042] Adjust the opening degree of the gas intake component according to the current rotation speed, so that the ratio between the air entering the mixing chamber through the fan component and the gas entering the mixing chamber through the gas intake component is within a preset ratio range.

[0043] For the control method, device, water heater, computer-readable storage medium, and computer program product of the above water heater, the water heater includes a combustion system, a mixing chamber, a fan component, and a gas intake component. The air intake port of the mixing chamber is connected to the fan component, the gas intake port is connected to the gas intake component, and the outlet port is connected to the combustion system. The control method includes: obtaining the target output power of the combustion system; determining the target drive signal of the fan component according to the target output power; during the process of controlling the operation of the fan component based on the target drive signal, obtaining the current rotation speed of the fan component; adjusting the opening degree of the gas intake component according to the current rotation speed, so that the ratio between the air entering the mixing chamber through the fan component and the gas entering the mixing chamber through the gas intake component is within a preset ratio range. Since the rotation speed of the fan component affects the amount of air entering the mixing chamber through the fan component, therefore, dynamically adjusting the opening degree of the gas intake component according to the current rotation speed of the fan component can make the amount of gas entering the mixing chamber match the amount of air at this time, and further keep the ratio of air and gas in the mixing chamber within the preset ratio range. Thus, when the mixed gas in the mixing chamber is provided to the combustion system, the combustion efficiency of the gas system can be improved, and the conditions such as flame lift-off and flashback that may occur during the combustion process can be improved, enhancing the operation safety of the water heater. Description of the Drawings

[0044] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application or the related art, the following will briefly introduce the accompanying drawings required for the description in the embodiments of the present application or the related art. Obviously, the accompanying drawings in the following description are only some embodiments of the present application. For those of ordinary skill in the art, without creative efforts, other related drawings can also be obtained based on these drawings.

[0045] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the modules of a water heater in an embodiment;

[0046] Figure 2 It is a schematic flowchart of the control method of a water heater in an embodiment;

[0047] Figure 3 It is a schematic flowchart of obtaining the target output power of a combustion system in an embodiment;

[0048] Figure 4 It is a schematic flowchart of the control method of a water heater in another embodiment;

[0049] Figure 5 It is a schematic flowchart of the control method of a water heater in yet another embodiment;

[0050] Figure 6 It is a partial schematic flowchart of the control method of a water heater in an embodiment;

[0051] Figure 7 It is a schematic flowchart of the control method of a water heater in yet another embodiment;

[0052] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram of the drive signal parameters and the power curve in an embodiment;

[0053] Figure 9 It is a schematic diagram of the rotational speed and the opening degree curve in an embodiment;

[0054] Figure 10 It is a structural block diagram of the control device of a water heater in an embodiment;

[0055] Figure 11 It is a partial structural schematic diagram of a water heater in an embodiment. Detailed implementation manners

[0056] In order to make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the present application more clear and understandable, the following further details the present application in combination with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present application and are not used to limit the present application.

[0057] The control method of the water heater provided by the embodiments of the present application can be applied to a water heater. In some embodiments, such asFigure 1 As shown in the figure, the water heater includes a control system 102, a combustion system 104, a mixing chamber 105, a fan assembly 106, and a gas inlet assembly 108. The control system 102 is respectively connected to the combustion system 104, the fan assembly 106, and the gas inlet assembly 108.

[0058] Among them, the fan assembly 106 is connected to the air inlet of the mixing chamber 105 and is used to input air into the mixing chamber 105 through the air inlet. The gas inlet assembly 108 is connected to the gas inlet of the mixing chamber 105 and is used to input gas into the mixing chamber 105 through the gas inlet. The outlet of the mixing chamber 105 is connected to the combustion system 104. The air input by the fan assembly 106 and the gas input by the gas inlet assembly 108 form a mixed gas in the mixing chamber 105, and the mixed gas is provided to the combustion system 104 through the outlet, and the combustion system 104 is used to receive and burn the mixed gas.

[0059] Among them, the control system 102 can use the control chip originally existing in the water heater, and add corresponding functions to the original control chip to implement the water heater control method of the present application, which can save hardware costs. Alternatively, a control chip independent of the original water heater can also be used. By executing the steps of the water heater control method of the present application through this control chip, it will not affect the original functions of the water heater, and can also cooperate with the control chip originally possessed by the water heater, with their work not interfering with each other, improving the accuracy of work.

[0060] In an exemplary embodiment, as Figure 2 shown, a control method for a water heater is provided. Taking the control system 102 in Figure 1 as an example for illustration, it includes the following steps 202 to step 206. Among them:

[0061] Step 202, obtain the target output power of the combustion system.

[0062] The target output power is the power level that the combustion system of the water heater needs to reach or maintain, and it directly affects the heating speed and efficiency of the water heater.

[0063] Among them, the manner in which the control system obtains the target output power is not unique. In some embodiments, as Figure 3 shown, step 202 includes the following steps 302 and step 304.

[0064] Step 302, obtain the set water outlet temperature and the current water temperature of the combustion system.

[0065] The control system first obtains the water outlet temperature set by the user. The manner in which the user sets the water outlet temperature does not need to be limited. For example, the user can set the desired hot water temperature through a control panel, a remote control, or a smart device connected to the control system.

[0066] The control system also monitors the current water temperature in the combustion system in real time. Herein, the current water temperature refers to the actual temperature state of the water inside the water heater. Specifically, the current water temperature may include, but is not limited to, the current inlet water temperature of the water heater (i.e., the temperature of the water to be heated entering the water heater) and / or the current outlet water temperature (i.e., the temperature of the water ready to be output after being heated by the water heater). In practical applications, the control system may, according to specific requirements, choose to monitor the inlet water temperature, the outlet water temperature, or both, in order to more precisely control the operation of the combustion system.

[0067] Step 304: Determine the target output power of the combustion system according to the set outlet water temperature and the current water temperature.

[0068] The control system determines the water temperature difference according to the set outlet water temperature and the current water temperature, and then comprehensively determines the target heating efficiency of the water heater according to heating requirements such as the water temperature difference and the amount of water to be heated. It can be understood that when the combustion system operates stably at the target output power, the outlet water temperature can be stabilized at the set outlet water temperature. Thus, by setting an appropriate target output power, the control system can achieve efficient and stable heating of the water heater, while reducing potential safety hazards such as energy waste and overheating.

[0069] In some other embodiments, the control system first obtains the current working mode of the water heater, and determines the target output power based on the current working mode.

[0070] The water heater can provide multiple preset working modes, such as a low-power consumption mode, a fast heating mode, etc. The user can select different modes, and the control system correspondingly adjusts the target output power according to the current working mode to meet the actual needs of the user.

[0071] Step 204: Determine the target drive signal of the fan assembly according to the target output power.

[0072] Among them, the drive signal of the fan assembly is used to drive the fan assembly to operate. The drive signal of the fan assembly is related to the amount of air provided by the fan assembly to the mixing chamber. When the fan assembly operates stably based on the target drive signal, the amount of air introduced into the mixing chamber can meet the combustion requirements when the combustion system operates at the target output power.

[0073] Step 206: During the process of controlling the operation of the fan assembly based on the target drive signal, obtain the current rotation speed of the fan assembly.

[0074] It can be understood that when controlling the operation of the fan assembly based on the target drive signal, the fan in the fan assembly needs a startup process. During this process, the rotational speed of the fan gradually increases, and the amount of air supplied to the mixing chamber gradually changes. Until the fan reaches a stable operating state, the amount of air supplied stabilizes at the target air volume. Among them, the target air volume can be a fixed value or a range.

[0075] The current rotational speed of the fan assembly is the current rotational speed of the fan in the fan assembly. The control system can obtain the current rotational speed of the fan assembly in real time, or obtain the current rotational speed of the fan assembly at intervals. Specifically, the acquisition frequency can be set according to specific circumstances.

[0076] Step 208: Adjust the opening degree of the gas intake assembly according to the current rotational speed, so that the ratio between the air entering the mixing chamber through the fan assembly and the gas entering the mixing chamber through the gas intake assembly is within a preset ratio range.

[0077] The opening degree of the gas intake assembly is related to the amount of gas supplied to the mixing chamber by the gas assembly. The control system sends a control signal to the gas intake assembly according to the current rotational speed of the fan assembly, adjusts its opening degree, can adjust the amount of gas entering the mixing chamber, thereby adjusting the ratio between the air and gas in the mixing chamber, so that the ratio between the air and gas is within the preset ratio range.

[0078] Among them, the preset ratio range can be determined according to the air-fuel ratio. The air-fuel ratio refers to the mass ratio between air and fuel (i.e., gas) in the mixed gas, usually expressed by the number of grams of air consumed when each gram of fuel burns. As an example, the appropriate preset ratio range can be determined according to the air-fuel ratio of the gas.

[0079] When the ratio between air and gas is within the preset ratio range, the combustion of the combustion system can be made more stable, effectively reducing the occurrence of flame lift-off and flashback.

[0080] The control method of the above water heater obtains the target output power of the combustion system; determines the target drive signal of the fan assembly according to the target output power; during the process of controlling the operation of the fan assembly based on the target drive signal, obtains the current speed of the fan assembly; adjusts the opening degree of the gas intake assembly according to the current speed, so that the ratio between the air entering the mixing chamber through the fan assembly and the gas entering the mixing chamber through the gas intake assembly is within a preset ratio range. Since the speed of the fan assembly affects the amount of air entering the mixing chamber through the fan assembly, therefore, dynamically adjusting the opening degree of the gas intake assembly according to the current speed of the fan assembly can make the amount of gas entering the mixing chamber match the amount of air at this time, and then keep the ratio of air and gas in the mixing chamber within the preset ratio range. Thus, when the mixed gas in the mixing chamber is provided to the combustion system, the combustion efficiency of the gas system can be improved, and the conditions such as flame lift-off and flashback that may occur during the combustion process can be improved, enhancing the operation safety and stability of the water heater.

[0081] In an exemplary embodiment, as Figure 4 shown, step 204 includes step 402. Among them:

[0082] Step 402, determines the target drive signal based on the preset correspondence between the drive signal parameters and the power and the target output power.

[0083] In actual implementation, the fan assembly includes a fan. When the fan operates, it can generate an air flow, thereby inputting air into the mixing chamber. It should be noted that the amount of air provided by the fan assembly to the mixing chamber has a linear relationship with the speed of the fan in the fan assembly, that is, the faster the wind speed of the fan, the greater the amount of air generated, and the greater the amount of air input into the mixing chamber.

[0084] The drive signal of the fan assembly can be a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) signal, and the drive signal parameters include the duty cycle of the PWM signal. By adjusting the duty cycle of the PWM signal, the speed of the fan can be precisely controlled, thereby adjusting the wind speed to achieve the adjustment of the air volume.

[0085] The preset correspondence between the drive signal parameters and the power is determined based on the target air-fuel ratio. In actual implementation, the combustion data can be recorded when the air-fuel ratio of the mixed gas provided in the mixing chamber is the target air-fuel ratio. The target air-fuel ratio needs to be set according to specific conditions. Exemplarily, when burning according to the preset air-fuel ratio, if the remaining oxygen content measured after combustion is 4%, then the preset air-fuel ratio can be used as the target air-fuel ratio. In some embodiments, the preset ratio range can be the target air-fuel ratio.

[0086] The combustion data includes: multiple output powers and the duty cycles of the PWM signals at each output power. Furthermore, based on the multiple output powers and the duty cycles of the PWM signals at each output power, the corresponding relationship between the duty cycle of the PWM signal and the output power is fitted, and this corresponding relationship between the duty cycle of the PWM signal and the output power is stored in the control system as the preset corresponding relationship between the drive signal parameter and the power.

[0087] When the control system obtains the target output power, according to the preset corresponding relationship between the drive signal parameter and the power, it can quickly determine the target duty cycle of the corresponding PWM signal, and then obtain the PWM signal with the duty cycle being the target duty cycle, that is, the target drive signal of the fan assembly. This target drive signal is sent to the fan assembly to drive the fan to operate at the corresponding speed, so as to provide an appropriate amount of air to the mixing chamber.

[0088] In this embodiment, through the preset corresponding relationship between the drive signal parameter and the power, the speed of the fan can be quickly and accurately controlled, so as to provide an appropriate amount of air to the combustion system, which helps to maintain the stable combustion of the combustion system and reduce the occurrence of flame detachment and flashback.

[0089] In an exemplary embodiment, the preset corresponding relationship between the drive signal parameter and the power is a preset curve of the drive signal parameter and the power.

[0090] Among them, the preset curve of the drive signal parameter and the power is a curve representing the relationship between the fan speed and the output power of the combustion system. This curve can reflect the speeds that the fan should reach at different output powers of the combustion system under the target air-fuel ratio.

[0091] Specifically, first, make the air-fuel ratio of the mixed gas provided by the mixing chamber be the target air-fuel ratio, then record the duty cycle of the PWM signal at different output powers, and finally, through data analysis, fit the curve relationship between the duty cycle of the PWM signal and the power, that is, the preset curve of the drive signal parameter and the power.

[0092] When the target output power is obtained, the control system will query the preset curve of the drive signal parameter and the power, find the target duty cycle of the corresponding PWM signal, and then determine the target drive signal of the fan assembly according to the target duty cycle.

[0093] In this embodiment, the preset curve of the drive signal parameter and the power is adopted as the corresponding relationship between the drive signal parameter and the power, and the target drive signal of the fan assembly is determined by querying the curve. This method has the advantages of intuitiveness, accuracy and fast response, can effectively meet the air volume requirements of the combustion system, and improve the combustion efficiency and the stability of the system.

[0094] It can be understood that the preset correspondence between the driving signal parameters and the power is not limited to the form of a curve, but can adopt various different implementation manners according to the actual situation. In some embodiments, the preset correspondence between the driving signal parameters and the power can also be a corresponding formula between the preset driving signal parameters and the power.

[0095] In an exemplary embodiment, as Figure 5 shown, the step of adjusting the opening degree of the gas intake assembly according to the current rotational speed includes step 502. Among them:

[0096] Step 502, based on the preset correspondence between the rotational speed and the opening degree and the current rotational speed, determines the opening degree driving signal; the opening degree driving signal is used to control the opening degree of the gas intake assembly.

[0097] In actual implementation, the gas intake assembly includes a proportional valve, and the opening degree of the proportional valve is the opening degree of the gas intake assembly. The larger the opening degree of the proportional valve, the larger the amount of gas input by the gas intake assembly into the mixing chamber.

[0098] When the control system controls the opening degree of the proportional valve, it outputs an opening degree driving signal to the proportional valve. By adjusting the duty cycle or current value of the opening degree driving signal, the opening degree of the proportional valve can be accurately regulated.

[0099] The preset correspondence between the rotational speed and the opening degree is determined based on the target air-fuel ratio. In actual implementation, when the air-fuel ratio of the mixed gas provided in the mixing chamber is the target air-fuel ratio, the combustion data can be recorded. The combustion data also includes: the rotational speed of the blower and the duty cycle or current value of the opening degree driving signal at multiple output powers. Then, according to the rotational speed of the blower and the duty cycle or current value of the opening degree driving signal at multiple output powers, the correspondence between the rotational speed of the blower and the duty cycle of the opening degree driving signal, or the correspondence between the rotational speed of the blower and the current value of the opening degree driving signal is fitted and stored in the control system as the preset correspondence between the rotational speed and the opening degree.

[0100] When the control system obtains the current rotational speed of the blower assembly, according to the preset correspondence between the rotational speed and the opening degree, it can quickly determine the duty cycle or current value of the opening degree driving signal, and then obtain the opening degree driving signal. This opening degree driving signal is sent to the proportional valve of the gas intake assembly, so that the proportional valve opens the corresponding opening degree, thereby providing an appropriate amount of gas to the mixing chamber.

[0101] In this embodiment, through the preset correspondence between the rotational speed and the opening degree, the accurate regulation of the opening degree of the gas intake assembly is realized, so that the air-fuel ratio of the mixed gas is maintained within the target range, thereby improving the combustion efficiency and enhancing the safety performance of the water heater.

[0102] In an exemplary embodiment, the preset correspondence between the rotational speed and the opening degree is a preset curve of the rotational speed and the opening degree.

[0103] Among them, the preset rotational speed - opening curve is a curve representing the relationship between the rotational speed of the blower and the opening of the gas intake assembly. This curve can reflect the opening that the gas intake assembly should reach corresponding to different rotational speeds of the blower in the blower assembly under the target air - fuel ratio.

[0104] Specifically, first, make the air - fuel ratio of the mixed gas provided by the mixing chamber be the target air - fuel ratio. Then, at different output powers, record the rotational speed of the blower and the duty cycle or current value of the opening drive signal of the proportional valve. Finally, through data analysis, fit the curve relationship between the rotational speed of the blower and the duty cycle of the opening drive signal of the proportional valve, or the curve relationship between the rotational speed of the blower and the current value of the opening drive signal of the proportional valve, as the preset rotational speed - opening curve.

[0105] When the current rotational speed is obtained, the control system will query the preset rotational speed - opening curve, find the corresponding duty cycle or current of the opening drive signal, and then obtain the opening drive signal.

[0106] In this embodiment, the preset rotational speed - opening curve is used as the corresponding relationship between the rotational speed and the opening, and the opening drive signal of the gas intake assembly is determined by querying the curve. This method has the advantages of being intuitive, accurate, and having a fast response, and can effectively meet the air volume requirements of the combustion system, improving the combustion efficiency and the stability of the system.

[0107] It can be understood that the preset corresponding relationship between the rotational speed and the opening is not limited to the form of a curve, but can adopt a variety of different implementation methods according to the actual situation. In some embodiments, the preset corresponding relationship between the rotational speed and the opening can also be a corresponding relationship formula between the preset rotational speed and the opening.

[0108] In some embodiments, the control method of this water heater further includes the following steps:

[0109] When the ratio between air and gas in the mixing chamber is the target air - fuel ratio, during the operation of the combustion system, obtain multiple output power values of the combustion system, and obtain the drive signals of the blower assembly corresponding to each output power value:

[0110] According to each output power value and the drive signal of the blower assembly corresponding to each output power value, obtain the corresponding relationship between the preset drive signal parameter and the power.

[0111] In this embodiment, by obtaining and analyzing multiple output power values of the combustion system and the duty cycle of the drive signal of the corresponding blower assembly, fitting the preset corresponding relationship between the duty cycle of the drive signal and the power can enable the control system to adjust the rotational speed of the blower more quickly and accurately.

[0112] In some embodiments, the control method of this water heater further includes the following steps:

[0113] When the ratio between air and fuel gas in the mixing chamber is the target air-fuel ratio, during the operation of the combustion system, obtain multiple output power values of the combustion system, and obtain the rotational speed of the fan assembly and the opening degree of the fuel gas intake assembly corresponding to each output power value;

[0114] According to the rotational speed of the fan assembly and the opening degree of the fuel gas intake assembly corresponding to each output power value, obtain the preset corresponding relationship between the rotational speed and the opening degree.

[0115] In this embodiment, by obtaining and analyzing the rotational speed of the fan assembly and the opening degree of the fuel gas intake assembly corresponding to each output power value, and fitting to obtain the preset corresponding relationship between the rotational speed and the opening degree, the control system can adjust the opening degree of the fuel gas intake assembly more quickly and accurately.

[0116] In some embodiments, it can also be as Figure 6 shown, the control method of this water heater includes the following steps 602-step 606.

[0117] Step 602, when the ratio between air and fuel gas in the mixing chamber is the target air-fuel ratio, during the operation of the combustion system, obtain multiple output power values of the combustion system, and obtain the drive signal of the fan assembly, the rotational speed of the fan assembly, and the opening degree of the fuel gas intake assembly corresponding to each output power value.

[0118] Step 604, according to each output power value and the drive signal of the fan assembly corresponding to each output power value, obtain the preset corresponding relationship between the drive signal parameter and the power.

[0119] Step 606, according to the rotational speed of the fan assembly and the opening degree of the fuel gas intake assembly corresponding to each output power value, obtain the preset corresponding relationship between the rotational speed and the opening degree.

[0120] During actual implementation, when the air-fuel ratio of the mixed gas provided in the mixing chamber is the target air-fuel ratio, record the combustion data. The combustion data includes: multiple output powers and the duty cycle of the PWM signal, the fan speed, and the opening degree drive signal parameter (duty cycle or current value) at each output power. Then, according to the multiple output powers and the duty cycle of the PWM signal at each output power, fit to obtain the corresponding relationship between the drive signal parameter and the power, and store this corresponding relationship between the drive signal parameter and the power as the preset corresponding relationship between the drive signal parameter and the power in the control system. According to the fan speed and the opening degree drive signal parameter at multiple output powers, fit to obtain the corresponding relationship between the fan speed and the opening degree drive signal parameter, and store it as the preset corresponding relationship between the rotational speed and the opening degree in the control system.

[0121] In this embodiment, by acquiring and analyzing combustion data, a preset correspondence relationship between drive signal parameters and power, rotational speed, and opening degree is obtained through fitting, which enables the control system to more precisely adjust the rotational speed of the blower and the opening degree of the gas intake component, thereby optimizing the combustion process and improving the combustion efficiency.

[0122] To better understand the above embodiments, the following provides a detailed explanation in conjunction with an optional embodiment. In one embodiment, the control method of the water heater is used for a fully premixed water heater. Specifically, please refer to Figure 7 , the control system first samples combustion data, which includes the output power of the combustion system, the duty cycle of the drive signal, the rotational speed of the blower in the blower assembly, and the duty cycle of the opening degree drive signal. Among them, the drive signal is a signal used to control the operation of the blower assembly, and the opening degree drive signal is a signal used to adjust the opening degree of the proportional valve in the gas intake component.

[0123] Since the air volume and the rotational speed of the blower are linearly related, therefore, guided by the target air-fuel ratio, the output power, and the duty cycle of the drive signal, the rotational speed of the blower, and the duty cycle of the opening degree drive signal at each output power are recorded. For example, when the air-fuel ratio is the target air-fuel ratio (residual oxygen content 4%), and the output power of the combustion system is 5KW, record the output power, the duty cycle of the drive signal, the rotational speed of the blower, and the duty cycle of the opening degree drive signal at this time. Similarly, multiple groups of combustion data at different output powers are recorded.

[0124] Taking the output power as the horizontal axis and the duty cycle of the drive signal as the vertical axis, a curve of drive signal parameters versus power is obtained through fitting. As an example, Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of the curve of drive signal parameters versus power (PM curve) in one embodiment.

[0125] Taking the rotational speed of the blower as the horizontal axis and the duty cycle of the opening degree drive signal as the vertical axis, a curve of rotational speed versus opening degree is obtained through fitting. As an example, Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of the curve of rotational speed versus opening degree (SV curve) in one embodiment.

[0126] Please refer to Figure 7 again. When the water heater is operating, the control system dynamically and real-time adjusts the target output power of the water heater combustion according to the temperature difference between the sampled outlet water temperature and the set temperature. Substituting the target output power into the curve of drive signal parameters versus power, the air demand for combustion at the target output power, and the duty cycle of the target drive signal corresponding to this air demand can be calculated. The target drive signal can be quickly output to the blower, but the startup of the blower has a process, so the actual air volume delivered by the blower needs to be accurately determined based on the current rotational speed of the blower.

[0127] The control system monitors the rotational speed of the blower in real time through the rotational speed feedback circuit, substitutes the collected rotational speed of the blower into the SV curve, calculates the duty ratio of the opening drive signal corresponding to the air volume, and thus controls the opening of the proportional valve to provide a gas volume corresponding to the actually delivered air volume. Thereby, the gas volume changes following the air volume, and the two are matched, which helps to improve the combustion stability.

[0128] For the above control method of the water heater, dynamically adjusting the opening of the gas intake component according to the current rotational speed of the blower assembly can make the gas volume entering the mixing chamber match the current air volume, and further keep the ratio of air and gas in the mixing chamber within the preset ratio range. Thus, when the mixed gas in the mixing chamber is supplied to the combustion system, the combustion stability of the gas system can be improved, the flame lift-off and flashback that may occur during the combustion process can be improved, and the operation safety and stability of the water heater can be enhanced.

[0129] It should be understood that although the steps in the flowcharts involved in the above-described embodiments are shown in sequence according to the indication of the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless there is a clear indication in this article, the execution of these steps has no strict order limitation, and these steps can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least a part of the steps in the flowcharts involved in the above-described embodiments may include multiple steps or multiple stages. These steps or stages are not necessarily executed at the same moment, but can be executed at different moments, and the execution order of these steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but can be executed alternately or in turn with at least a part of other steps or steps or stages in other steps.

[0130] Based on the same inventive concept, the embodiments of the present application also provide a control device for a water heater for implementing the control method of the water heater involved above. The solution provided by this device for solving problems is similar to the solution described in the above method. Therefore, the specific limitations in one or more embodiments of the control device for the water heater provided below can refer to the limitations on the control method of the water heater in the above text, and will not be elaborated here.

[0131] In an exemplary embodiment, as Figure 10 shown, a control device for a water heater is provided. The water heater includes a combustion system, a mixing chamber, a blower assembly, and a gas intake component. The blower assembly is connected to the air intake port of the mixing chamber, the gas intake component is connected to the gas intake port of the mixing chamber, and the outlet of the mixing chamber is connected to the combustion system. The control device of the water heater includes: a power acquisition module 702, a blower drive module 704, a rotational speed acquisition module 706, and an opening adjustment module 708, where:

[0132] A power acquisition module 702 for acquiring the target output power of the combustion system.

[0133] A fan drive module 704 for determining a target drive signal for the fan assembly according to the target output power.

[0134] A rotational speed acquisition module 706 for acquiring the current rotational speed of the fan assembly during the process of controlling the operation of the fan assembly based on the target drive signal.

[0135] An opening adjustment module 708 for adjusting the opening of the gas intake assembly according to the current rotational speed, so that the ratio between the air entering the mixing chamber through the fan assembly and the gas entering the mixing chamber through the gas intake assembly is within a preset ratio range.

[0136] In some embodiments, the fan drive module 704 is further configured to determine a target drive signal based on a preset correspondence between drive signal parameters and power and the target output power; the target drive signal is used to drive the operation of the fan assembly; the preset correspondence between drive signal parameters and power is determined based on the target air-fuel ratio.

[0137] In some embodiments, the opening adjustment module 708 is further configured to determine an opening drive signal based on a preset correspondence between rotational speed and opening and the current rotational speed; the opening drive signal is used to control the opening of the gas intake assembly; the preset correspondence between rotational speed and opening is determined based on the target air-fuel ratio.

[0138] In some embodiments, the control device of the water heater further includes a correspondence determination module, configured to, when the ratio between air and gas in the mixing chamber is the target air-fuel ratio, during the operation of the combustion system, acquire multiple output power values of the combustion system, and acquire the drive signal of the fan assembly, the rotational speed of the fan assembly, and the opening of the gas intake assembly corresponding to each output power value; obtain a preset correspondence between drive signal parameters and power according to each output power value and the drive signal of the fan assembly corresponding to each output power value; obtain a preset correspondence between rotational speed and opening according to the rotational speed of the fan assembly and the opening of the gas intake assembly corresponding to each output power value.

[0139] In some embodiments, the power acquisition module 702 is further configured to acquire the set water outlet temperature and the current water temperature of the combustion system; determine the target output power of the combustion system according to the set water outlet temperature and the current water temperature.

[0140] Each module in the above control device of the water heater can be implemented in whole or in part by software, hardware, and their combination. The above modules can be embedded in the processor of the computer device in hardware form or independent of it, or stored in the memory of the computer device in software form, so as to facilitate the processor to call and execute the operations corresponding to the above modules.

[0141] In some embodiments, a water heater is provided. Referring again to Figure 1 , the water heater includes a control system 102, a combustion system 104, a mixing chamber 105, a fan assembly 106, and a gas inlet assembly 108. The control system 102 is respectively connected to the combustion system 104, the fan assembly 106, and the gas inlet assembly 108.

[0142] Among them, the fan assembly 106 communicates with the air inlet of the mixing chamber 105 and is used to input air into the mixing chamber 105 through the air inlet. The gas inlet assembly 108 communicates with the gas inlet of the mixing chamber 105 and is used to input gas into the mixing chamber 105 through the gas inlet. The outlet of the mixing chamber 105 communicates with the combustion system 104. The air input by the fan assembly 106 and the gas input by the gas inlet assembly 108 form a mixed gas in the mixing chamber 105, and the mixed gas is provided to the combustion system 104 through the outlet, and the combustion system 104 is used to receive and burn the mixed gas.

[0143] In actual implementation, the control system 102 can use the control chip originally existing in the water heater, and add corresponding functions to the original control chip to implement the water heater control method of the present application, which can save hardware costs. Alternatively, a control chip independent of the original water heater can also be used, and the steps of the water heater control method of the present application are executed through this control chip, which will not affect the original functions of the water heater, and can also cooperate with the control chip originally possessed by the water heater, and their operations do not affect each other, improving the accuracy of the operation.

[0144] The water heater further includes a speed feedback circuit connected to the control system 102, which is used to detect and feedback the speed of the fan in the fan assembly to the control system 102.

[0145] In some embodiments, as Figure 11 shown, the gas inlet assembly 108 includes a gas inlet 201, a gas outlet, and a proportional valve 202 provided at the gas outlet. The gas outlet communicates with the gas inlet 203 of the mixing chamber 105. The gas inlet 201 is used to introduce gas. Among them, the gas can be natural gas or other gases.

[0146] The fan assembly 106 includes a fan 205 and an air inlet 206. When the fan operates, the runner of the fan 205 can generate an air flow, thereby introducing air from the air inlet 206 into the mixing chamber 105.

[0147] The air and gas transported by the fan assembly 106 and the gas inlet assembly 108 into the mixing chamber 105 are premixed in the mixing chamber 105, and after mixing, they are communicated through the outlet 204 of the mixing chamber 105 and provided to the combustion system 104.

[0148] Among them, the control system 102 is used to implement the above-mentioned control method of the water heater. For details, reference can be made to the above-mentioned embodiments and will not be elaborated here.

[0149] In one embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which a computer program is stored. When the computer program is executed by a processor, the following steps are implemented:

[0150] Obtain the target output power of the combustion system;

[0151] Determine the target drive signal of the fan assembly according to the target output power;

[0152] During the process of controlling the operation of the fan assembly based on the target drive signal, obtain the current speed of the fan assembly;

[0153] Adjust the opening degree of the gas intake assembly according to the current speed, so that the ratio between the air entering the mixing chamber through the fan assembly and the gas entering the mixing chamber through the gas intake assembly is within a preset ratio range.

[0154] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, the following steps are further implemented: determine the target drive signal based on the preset correspondence between the drive signal parameter and the power and the target output power; the target drive signal is used to drive the operation of the fan assembly; the preset correspondence between the drive signal parameter and the power is determined based on the target air-fuel ratio.

[0155] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, the following steps are further implemented: determine the opening degree drive signal based on the preset correspondence between the speed and the opening degree and the current speed; the opening degree drive signal is used to control the opening degree of the gas intake assembly; the preset correspondence between the speed and the opening degree is determined based on the target air-fuel ratio.

[0156] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, the following steps are further implemented: when the ratio between the air and the gas in the mixing chamber is the target air-fuel ratio, during the operation of the combustion system, obtain multiple output power values of the combustion system, and obtain the drive signal of the fan assembly, the speed of the fan assembly, and the opening degree of the gas intake assembly corresponding to each output power value; obtain the preset correspondence between the drive signal parameter and the power according to each output power value and the drive signal of the fan assembly corresponding to each output power value; obtain the preset correspondence between the speed and the opening degree according to the speed of the fan assembly and the opening degree of the gas intake assembly corresponding to each output power value.

[0157] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, the following steps are further implemented: obtain the set water outlet temperature and the current water temperature of the combustion system; determine the target output power of the combustion system according to the set water outlet temperature and the current water temperature.

[0158] In one embodiment, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program which, when executed by a processor, implements the following steps:

[0159] Obtain the target output power of the combustion system;

[0160] Determine the target drive signal of the fan assembly according to the target output power;

[0161] During the process of controlling the operation of the fan assembly based on the target drive signal, obtain the current rotational speed of the fan assembly;

[0162] Adjust the opening degree of the gas intake assembly according to the current rotational speed, so that the ratio between the air entering the mixing chamber through the fan assembly and the gas entering the mixing chamber through the gas intake assembly is within a preset ratio range.

[0163] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by the processor, the following steps are further implemented: determine the target drive signal based on the preset correspondence between the drive signal parameter and the power and the target output power; the target drive signal is used to drive the operation of the fan assembly; the preset correspondence between the drive signal parameter and the power is determined based on the target air-fuel ratio.

[0164] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by the processor, the following steps are further implemented: determine the opening degree drive signal based on the preset correspondence between the rotational speed and the opening degree and the current rotational speed; the opening degree drive signal is used to control the opening degree of the gas intake assembly; the preset correspondence between the rotational speed and the opening degree is determined based on the target air-fuel ratio.

[0165] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by the processor, the following steps are further implemented: when the ratio between the air and the gas in the mixing chamber is the target air-fuel ratio, during the operation of the combustion system, obtain multiple output power values of the combustion system, and obtain the drive signal of the fan assembly, the rotational speed of the fan assembly, and the opening degree of the gas intake assembly corresponding to each output power value; obtain the preset correspondence between the drive signal parameter and the power according to each output power value and the drive signal of the fan assembly corresponding to each output power value; obtain the preset correspondence between the rotational speed and the opening degree according to the rotational speed of the fan assembly and the opening degree of the gas intake assembly corresponding to each output power value.

[0166] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by the processor, the following steps are further implemented: obtain the set water outlet temperature and the current water temperature of the combustion system; determine the target output power of the combustion system according to the set water outlet temperature and the current water temperature.

[0167] Those of ordinary skill in the art can understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be completed by instructing relevant hardware through a computer program. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium. When the computer program is executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above methods. Among them, any reference to a memory, database, or other medium used in the embodiments provided in this application can include at least one of non-volatile memory and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include Read-Only Memory (ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, optical memory, high-density embedded non-volatile memory, Resistive Random Access Memory (ReRAM), Magnetoresistive Random Access Memory (MRAM), Ferroelectric Random Access Memory (FRAM), Phase Change Memory (PCM), graphene memory, etc. Volatile memory can include Random Access Memory (RAM) or external cache memory, etc. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM can be in various forms, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) or Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), etc. The databases involved in the embodiments provided in this application can include at least one of relational databases and non-relational databases. Non-relational databases can include distributed databases based on blockchain, etc., without limitation. The processors involved in the embodiments provided in this application can be general-purpose processors, central processors, graphics processors, digital signal processors, programmable logic devices, data processing logics based on quantum computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI) processors, etc., without limitation.

[0168] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. For the sake of brevity of description, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, it should be considered as within the scope recorded in this application.

[0169] The above-described embodiments merely represent several implementation manners of the present application. The description thereof is relatively specific and detailed, but it should not be construed as a limitation to the patent scope of the present application. It should be noted that for those of ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the concept of the present application, several modifications and improvements can still be made, and these all fall within the protection scope of the present application. Therefore, the protection scope of the present application shall be subject to the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a water heater, characterized in that: The water heater comprises a combustion system, a mixing chamber, a fan assembly and a gas intake assembly, wherein the fan assembly is connected to the air intake port of the mixing chamber, the gas intake assembly is connected to the gas intake port of the mixing chamber, and the gas outlet of the mixing chamber is connected to the combustion system; The control method comprises: Obtaining a target output power of the combustion system; Determining a target driving signal for the fan assembly according to the target output power; In the process of controlling the operation of the fan component based on the target drive signal, obtaining a current rotation speed of the fan component; The opening of the gas intake assembly is adjusted according to the current rotation speed so that the ratio between the air entering the mixing chamber through the fan assembly and the gas entering the mixing chamber through the gas intake assembly is within a preset ratio range.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The step of determining a target driving signal of the fan component according to the target output power comprises: The target drive signal is determined based on the preset driving signal parameter and power correspondence and the target output power; the target drive signal is used to drive the fan component to operate; the preset driving signal parameter and power correspondence is determined based on the target air-fuel ratio.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that The preset driving signal parameter and power correspondence relationship is a preset driving signal parameter and power curve.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adjusting the opening of the gas intake assembly according to the current rotation speed includes: Based on the preset speed-opening correspondence and the current speed, an opening drive signal is determined; the opening drive signal is used to control the opening of the gas intake component; the preset speed-opening correspondence is determined based on the target air-fuel ratio.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that The preset corresponding relationship between the rotation speed and the opening is a preset rotation speed and the opening curve.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The obtaining of the target output power of the combustion system comprises: Obtaining the set water outlet temperature and the current water temperature of the combustion system; The target output power of the combustion system is determined according to the set water outlet temperature and the current water temperature.

7. A control device for a water heater, characterized in that: The water heater comprises a combustion system, a mixing chamber, a fan assembly and a gas intake assembly, wherein the fan assembly is connected to the air intake port of the mixing chamber, the gas intake assembly is connected to the gas intake port of the mixing chamber, and the gas outlet of the mixing chamber is connected to the combustion system; The control device comprises: A power acquisition module, used to acquire the target output power of the combustion system; A fan driving module, used for determining a target driving signal of the fan assembly according to the target output power; A rotation speed acquisition module, used for acquiring a current rotation speed of the fan assembly during the process of controlling the operation of the fan assembly based on the target drive signal; The opening adjustment module is used to adjust the opening of the gas intake assembly according to the current rotation speed so that the ratio between the air entering the mixing chamber through the fan assembly and the gas entering the mixing chamber through the gas intake assembly is within a preset ratio range.

8. A water heater, characterized in that: The water heater comprises a control system, a combustion system, a mixing chamber, a fan assembly and a gas intake assembly, wherein the fan assembly is connected to an air inlet of the mixing chamber, the gas intake assembly is connected to a gas inlet of the mixing chamber, and a gas outlet of the mixing chamber is connected to the combustion system; The control system is respectively connected to the combustion system, the fan assembly and the gas intake assembly; the control system is used to implement the steps of the method described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

9. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that: When the computer program is executed by a processor, the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 6 are implemented.

10. A computer program product, comprising a computer program, characterized in that When the computer program is executed by a processor, the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 6 are implemented.

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