Control method and equipment of water heater, medium and program product

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of intelligent household appliances, and particularly relates to a control method and device of a water heater, a medium and a program product. Under the condition that the water level of the water heater is higher than a preset water level threshold value, the environment temperature of the water heater is detected; according to a working mode judgment rule corresponding to the temperature interval, the working mode of the water heater is determined, and the working mode is a solar mode or a solar heating pump mode; according to the method, through the intelligent control strategy based on the water level and the environment temperature, the accuracy of the starting time of the heat pump water heater is improved, and the hot water supply stability and the energy utilization efficiency are effectively improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of smart home appliance technology, and in particular to a control method, device, medium and program product for a water heater. Background Art

[0002] Water heaters include heat pump water heaters and solar water heaters. Solar water heaters rely on absorbing solar energy to convert light energy into heat energy to heat the water in the water heater. Its heating effect depends entirely on the light intensity. When the light is insufficient, the heating capacity will be limited. Heat pump water heaters use the water heater control system to intelligently adjust its operating parameters, draw heat energy from the surrounding environment, and thus heat the water in the water heater.

[0003] In the existing technology, heat pump water heaters are combined with solar water heaters. The solar water heaters absorb solar energy and convert it into heat energy to heat the water in the water heater tank in real time. However, due to the influence of conditions such as light, the water temperature after solar heating may not meet the user's needs. At this time, the user needs to manually turn on the heat pump water heater according to the actual water temperature. The heat pump absorbs heat from the surrounding environment to further heat the water in the water tank to ensure that the final water temperature meets the user's requirements.

[0004] However, it is difficult for users to accurately determine when to turn on the heat pump to meet water temperature requirements and avoid energy waste. Therefore, there is a problem of inaccurate control timing of the heat pump water heater. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The embodiments of the present application provide a water heater control method, device, medium, and program product to solve the problem of inaccurate control timing of a heat pump water heater.

[0006] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a control method for a water heater, wherein the water heater is a solar heat pump water heater, the method comprising:

[0007] When the water level of the water heater is higher than a preset water level threshold, detecting the ambient temperature of the water heater;

[0008] The working mode of the water heater is determined according to the temperature range to which the ambient temperature belongs and the working mode judgment rule corresponding to the temperature range, and the working mode is a solar energy mode or a solar heating pump mode.

[0009] As an optional implementation manner, when the temperature interval is such that the ambient temperature is less than the first temperature threshold, the operating mode determination rule corresponding to the temperature interval is:

[0010] When the water temperature of the water heater is lower than a second temperature threshold, determining that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar heat pump mode;

[0011] When the water temperature of the water heater is greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold, the operating mode of the water heater is determined to be the solar energy mode.

[0012] As an optional implementation manner, when the temperature interval is such that the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold and less than or equal to the third temperature threshold, the operating mode determination rule corresponding to the temperature interval is:

[0013] When the water temperature of the water heater is lower than the third temperature threshold, determining the operating mode of the water heater according to the change of the water temperature of the water heater;

[0014] When the water temperature of the water heater is greater than or equal to the third temperature threshold, the operating mode of the water heater is determined to be the solar energy mode.

[0015] As an optional implementation manner, determining the operating mode of the water heater according to the change in the water temperature of the water heater includes:

[0016] When the water temperature of the water heater increases by a value less than or equal to a preset increase value within a preset time period, determining that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar heating pump mode;

[0017] When the water temperature of the water heater increases by more than the preset increase value within the preset time period, the operating mode of the water heater is determined to be the solar energy mode.

[0018] As an optional implementation manner, when the temperature interval is such that the ambient temperature is greater than the third temperature threshold, the operating mode determination rule corresponding to the temperature interval is:

[0019] When the water temperature of the water heater is at any value, the operating mode of the water heater is determined to be the solar energy mode.

[0020] As an optional implementation, it also includes:

[0021] The water temperature of the water heater is detected according to a preset detection cycle, and / or the water temperature of the water heater is detected after each water addition to the water heater is completed.

[0022] As an optional implementation, it also includes:

[0023] When the water level of the water heater does not exceed the preset water level threshold, the operating mode of the water heater is determined to be the solar energy mode.

[0024] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a control device for a water heater, comprising:

[0025] a detection module, configured to detect the ambient temperature of the water heater when the water level of the water heater is higher than a preset water level threshold;

[0026] The determination module is used to determine the working mode of the water heater according to the temperature range to which the ambient temperature belongs and the working mode judgment rule corresponding to the temperature range, and the working mode is a solar energy mode or a solar heating pump mode.

[0027] As an optional implementation, the determining module further includes: determining that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar heating pump mode when the water temperature of the water heater is lower than a second temperature threshold;

[0028] The determining module is further configured to determine that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar energy mode when the water temperature of the water heater is greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold.

[0029] As an optional implementation manner, the determining module is further configured to determine the operating mode of the water heater according to a change in the water temperature of the water heater when the water temperature of the water heater is lower than the third temperature threshold;

[0030] The determination module is further configured to determine that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar energy mode when the water temperature of the water heater is greater than or equal to the third temperature threshold.

[0031] As an optional embodiment, the determining module is further configured to determine that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar heating pump mode when the water temperature of the water heater increases by less than or equal to a preset increase value within a preset time period;

[0032] The determining module is further configured to determine that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar energy mode when the rising value of the water temperature of the water heater within a preset time period is greater than the preset rising value.

[0033] As an optional implementation manner, the determination module is further configured to determine that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar energy mode when the water temperature of the water heater is any value.

[0034] As an optional implementation, the detection module is further used to detect the water temperature of the water heater according to a preset detection cycle, and / or detect the water temperature of the water heater after each water addition to the water heater is completed.

[0035] As an optional implementation manner, the determination module is further configured to determine that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar energy mode when the water level of the water heater does not exceed the preset water level threshold.

[0036] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a water heater control device, comprising: a sensor, a receiver, a transmitter, a memory, and a processor;

[0037] Sensors for detecting ambient temperature and water temperature;

[0038] A receiver, for receiving instructions and data;

[0039] Transmitter, used to send instructions and data;

[0040] The memory stores computer-executable instructions;

[0041] The processor executes the computer-executable instructions stored in the memory, so that the processor executes the above first aspect and / or various possible implementations of the first aspect.

[0042] In a fourth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a computer-readable storage medium, in which computer-executable instructions are stored. When the computer-executable instructions are executed by a processor, they are used to implement the first aspect above and / or various possible implementation methods of the first aspect.

[0043] In a fifth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a computer program product, including a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the above first aspect and / or various possible implementation methods of the first aspect.

[0044] The control method of the water heater provided in the present application detects the ambient temperature of the water heater when the water level of the water heater is higher than a preset water level threshold, and determines the working mode of the water heater according to the temperature range to which the ambient temperature belongs and the working mode judgment rule corresponding to the temperature range, wherein the working mode is a solar energy mode or a solar heating pump mode; the method improves the accuracy of the start-up timing of the heat pump water heater through this intelligent control strategy based on water level and ambient temperature, and effectively improves the stability of hot water supply and energy utilization efficiency. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the present application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present application.

[0046] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the process of controlling the water heater provided in this application Figure 1 ;

[0047] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the process of controlling the water heater provided in this application Figure 2 ;

[0048] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the process of controlling the water heater provided in this application Figure 3 ;

[0049] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the process of controlling the water heater provided in this application Figure 4 ;

[0050] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of the control device of the water heater provided in this application;

[0051] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the control device of the water heater provided in this application.

[0052] The above drawings illustrate specific embodiments of the present application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and the textual description are not intended to limit the scope of the present application in any way, but rather to illustrate the concepts of the present application to those skilled in the art by reference to specific embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application more clear, the technical solutions in this application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of them. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0054] Heat pump water heaters and solar water heaters are two relatively energy-efficient hot water supply devices. Solar water heaters absorb solar energy and convert it into heat to heat the water in the tank. Their heating effect is entirely dependent on sunlight intensity. Heat pump water heaters, on the other hand, utilize a water heater control system that intelligently adjusts operating parameters, drawing heat energy from the surrounding environment to heat the water in the tank. They are not restricted by sunlight conditions and can operate in a variety of environments.

[0055] Existing technology combines heat pump water heaters with solar water heaters. In this combined system, the solar water heater takes priority, absorbing solar energy and converting it into heat, heating the water in the water heater tank in real time. This combination integrates the advantages of both energy sources to a certain extent, improving the reliability of hot water supply. However, due to the uncertainty of natural conditions such as sunlight, the temperature of water heated by solar heating often fails to accurately meet user requirements. When the water temperature is insufficient, the user needs to manually activate the heat pump water heater according to the actual water temperature. The heat pump absorbs heat from the surrounding environment to further heat the water in the water tank, ensuring that the final water temperature meets the user's requirements.

[0056] However, it's difficult for users to accurately determine when to activate the heat pump to meet water temperature requirements while avoiding energy waste. If it's activated too early, the heat pump will run prematurely, increasing unnecessary energy consumption and wasting the heat the solar water heater could otherwise provide. If it's activated too late, it may not be able to replenish the solar heating supply in time, preventing users from obtaining hot water of sufficient temperature. Therefore, existing heat pump water heaters suffer from inaccurate control timing.

[0057] In response to the above problems, the control method for the water heater provided in the present application first sets a water level threshold. When the water level of the water heater is higher than the threshold, the ambient temperature is further detected and divided into different intervals. Each interval corresponds to a specific working mode judgment rule. Based on these rules, it is determined whether the water heater adopts a solar energy mode that relies only on solar energy for heating, or a solar heating pump mode that enables solar energy and heat pump for joint heating. Through this intelligent control strategy based on water level and ambient temperature, the accuracy of the start-up timing of the heat pump water heater is improved, effectively improving the stability of hot water supply and energy utilization efficiency.

[0058] The following specific embodiments describe in detail the technical solution of the present application and how the technical solution of the present application solves the above-mentioned technical problems. The following specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be repeated in some embodiments. The embodiments of the present application will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0059] Figure 1 This is a flow chart of the control method for the water heater provided in this application. The execution subject of this embodiment is, for example, a control system. Figure 1 As shown, the water heater is a solar heat pump water heater, and the method includes:

[0060] S101: When the water level of the water heater is higher than a preset water level threshold, detecting the ambient temperature of the water heater.

[0061] When the water level in the water heater is higher than the preset water level threshold, it indicates that there is sufficient water inside the water heater to support subsequent heating operations. This is because heating can only be carried out when there is sufficient water to effectively avoid dry burning due to too little water. Dry burning will not only damage the heating elements inside the water heater, but may also cause safety hazards. Therefore, this water level status provides an important guarantee for the safe and stable operation of the water heater.

[0062] During the operation of the water heater, once the control system detects that the water level is higher than the preset threshold, it means that there is sufficient water in the water heater to perform normal heating and other operations. Since the water heater is a solar heat pump water heater, it has the characteristics of both solar water heaters and heat pump water heaters. The operation of the solar water heater depends on the ambient temperature for regulation, while the heat pump water heater relies on advanced control systems to achieve precise control, thereby ensuring that the water heater can work efficiently and safely when there is sufficient water.

[0063] During the operation of the water heater, when its built-in control system finds that the water level is higher than the pre-set water level threshold, it indicates that the water level in the water heater has reached a safe and sufficient level, which can ensure the stable implementation of subsequent heating and other operations. At this time, the control system will further trigger the detection of the ambient temperature of the water heater, so as to accurately adjust the working mode and parameters of the water heater according to the ambient temperature information to ensure its efficient and safe operation.

[0064] For example, the preset water level threshold of a certain smart water heater is 80% of the water tank capacity. When the user continuously adds water to the water tank, the water level sensor detects that the current water level has exceeded 80% of the water tank capacity, that is, the water level is higher than the preset water level threshold. The control system will automatically trigger the ambient temperature detection program and obtain the specific temperature value of the water heater's environment in real time through the built-in temperature sensor.

[0065] S102: Determine the working mode of the water heater according to the temperature range to which the ambient temperature belongs and the working mode judgment rule corresponding to the temperature range. The working mode is a solar energy mode or a solar heating pump mode.

[0066] Determining the operating mode is a key step in a water heater's intelligent control system. The water heater first detects the ambient temperature, a parameter that significantly impacts its heating efficiency and energy utilization. The control system compares the acquired ambient temperature with a series of predefined temperature ranges, each representing a different range of environmental conditions. Furthermore, for each temperature range, corresponding operating mode determination rules are predefined. These rules, developed based on extensive experimental data and practical experience, achieve the goals of efficient heating and energy conservation.

[0067] Once the ambient temperature data is acquired, the control system initiates a judgment process. It matches the ambient temperature against each temperature range one by one. Once it determines that the ambient temperature falls within a specific temperature range, it makes a decision based on the operating mode judgment rules corresponding to that temperature range. For example, in seasons with high ambient temperatures and abundant sunshine, the ambient temperature may fall within a relatively high temperature range. According to the corresponding judgment rules, the water heater is in solar power mode. Because solar energy resources are abundant in such environments, directly heating water with solar energy is an efficient and energy-saving method. However, when the ambient temperature is lower, in another temperature range, the judgment rules may instruct the water heater to use solar heat pump mode. In this case, the heat pump can assist with solar heating, compensating for the inefficiency of solar heating in low-temperature environments and ensuring that the water heater can provide a stable supply of hot water.

[0068] The water heater ultimately adopted either solar mode or solar heat pump mode as its current operating mode. The solar mode fully utilizes renewable energy—solar energy—to reduce operating costs while also being environmentally friendly. In contrast, the solar heat pump mode, when solar energy resources are insufficient, uses the assistance of a heat pump to maintain the water heater's heating performance, ensuring that users have access to sufficient hot water at all times. This method of determining the operating mode based on the ambient temperature range and corresponding judgment rules enables the water heater to flexibly adapt to different environmental conditions, achieving efficient energy utilization and stable hot water supply, providing users with a more convenient, comfortable, and energy-saving user experience.

[0069] The control method for a water heater provided in an embodiment of the present application detects the ambient temperature of the water heater when the water level of the water heater is higher than a preset water level threshold, and determines the working mode of the water heater according to the temperature range to which the ambient temperature belongs and the working mode judgment rules corresponding to the temperature range. The working mode is either a solar energy mode or a solar heating pump mode. The method improves the accuracy of the start-up timing of the heat pump water heater through this intelligent control strategy based on water level and ambient temperature, and effectively improves the stability of hot water supply and energy utilization efficiency.

[0070] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the process of controlling the water heater provided in this application Figure 2 .like Figure 2 As shown, when the temperature interval is that the ambient temperature is less than the first temperature threshold, the working mode judgment rule corresponding to the temperature interval is:

[0071] S201: When the water temperature of the water heater is lower than a second temperature threshold, determining that the operating mode of the water heater is a solar heating pump mode.

[0072] When the ambient temperature is below a pre-set first temperature threshold, it indicates that the ambient temperature is currently low. In such low-temperature environments, the heating effect of solar energy, a natural energy source, on the water heater is significantly limited. Because solar heating primarily relies on solar radiation, low temperatures are often accompanied by factors such as reduced light intensity and air convection, which reduce the efficiency of solar water heaters in absorbing solar energy and converting it into heat. This makes it difficult for solar energy itself to raise the water temperature in the water heater to the ideal state, resulting in a smaller heating effect of solar energy on the water heater.

[0073] When the ambient temperature is below the first temperature threshold, and the water heater's water temperature is also below the second temperature threshold, a doubly unfavorable situation arises. The low ambient temperature indicates that insufficient external heat can be transferred to the water heater, while the low water temperature indicates that the existing hot water in the water heater cannot meet user needs. This combination of low ambient temperature and low water temperature means that the water heater will struggle to quickly raise the water temperature to the appropriate level using existing heating methods, particularly solar heating. This could lead to insufficient hot water supply for users.

[0074] Given the aforementioned low ambient and water temperatures, effective heating measures are necessary to ensure the water heater can properly provide hot water and meet users' daily needs. A heat pump, as a highly efficient heating device, operates normally in low-temperature environments. It absorbs heat from the external environment and transfers it to the water heater, thereby heating the water. Therefore, in this situation, the heat pump must be controlled to heat the water heater to compensate for the lack of solar heating, quickly raising the water temperature within the water heater and ensuring normal operation of the water heater and a stable supply of hot water.

[0075] For example, the first temperature threshold is set to 5°C and the second temperature threshold is set to 30°C. When the control system detects that the ambient temperature of the water heater is 2°C, which is lower than the first temperature threshold of 5°C, it enters the corresponding working mode judgment process. At this time, if the water temperature in the water heater is detected to be 25°C, which is lower than the second temperature threshold of 30°C, then the working mode of the water heater will be determined to be solar heating pump mode.

[0076] S202: When the water temperature of the water heater is greater than or equal to a second temperature threshold, determining that the operating mode of the water heater is a solar energy mode.

[0077] When the ambient temperature is lower than the pre-set first temperature threshold, it means that the external environment is in a low-temperature state. Based on the basic principle of heat transfer, the water heater naturally raises the water temperature mainly by absorbing heat from the surrounding environment. However, in a low-temperature environment, the heat contained in the outside air and objects is very small, making it difficult for the water heater to obtain enough heat from such an environment to effectively raise the water temperature.

[0078] However, when the control system simultaneously detects that the water temperature of the water heater is greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold, it indicates that a certain amount of hot water has been stored inside the water heater and the water temperature is at a relatively high level. This means that the water heater has accumulated sufficient heat through effective methods such as solar heating during its previous operation. As an abundant and clean energy source, solar energy can provide a large amount of heat for the water heater under appropriate conditions. For example, on sunny days, solar collectors can fully absorb solar energy and convert it into heat energy, which is transferred to the water in the water heater, causing the water temperature to gradually rise.

[0079] In short, when the ambient temperature is low but the water temperature is high, you can choose only solar mode. Using solar mode can significantly reduce dependence on traditional energy sources (such as electricity and gas), reducing user costs. From an operational perspective, it avoids the potential equipment damage and energy waste associated with forcibly activating other heating methods in low ambient temperatures, extending the water heater's lifespan and improving overall operational efficiency.

[0080] For example, the first temperature threshold is set to 5°C and the second temperature threshold is set to 30°C. When the control system detects that the ambient temperature of the water heater is 2°C, which is lower than the first temperature threshold of 5°C, it enters the corresponding working mode judgment process. At this time, if the water temperature in the water heater is detected to be 35°C, which is higher than the second temperature threshold of 30°C, then it will be determined that the working mode of the water heater is solar mode.

[0081] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the process of controlling the water heater provided in this application Figure 3 .like Figure 3 As shown, when the temperature interval is that the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold and less than or equal to the third temperature threshold, the working mode judgment rule corresponding to the temperature interval is:

[0082] S301: When the water temperature of the water heater is lower than a third temperature threshold, determine an operating mode of the water heater according to a change in the water temperature of the water heater.

[0083] The water heater's intelligent control system pre-defines multiple temperature ranges to more precisely adjust its operating mode to suit varying environmental conditions. This temperature range refers to the range where the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold and less than or equal to the third temperature threshold. When the ambient temperature falls within this range, the external environment is relatively mild, neither too cold nor too hot.

[0084] When the ambient temperature is within the above range, if the water heater's water temperature is detected to be below the third temperature threshold, the water heater's operating mode will be further determined based on the water temperature fluctuations. A water temperature below the third temperature threshold indicates that the water temperature in the water heater has not yet reached a high enough level and may not be able to directly meet the user's hot water needs.

[0085] As an optional implementation, the operating mode of the water heater is determined according to the change in the water temperature of the water heater. The specific implementation method includes:

[0086] When the water temperature of the water heater increases by a value less than or equal to a preset value within a preset time period, determining that the operating mode of the water heater is a solar heat pump mode;

[0087] When the water temperature of the water heater increases by more than a preset increase value within a preset time period, it is determined that the working mode of the water heater is a solar energy mode.

[0088] When the temperature range is such that the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold and less than or equal to the third temperature threshold, within this ambient temperature range, the performance of the solar collector is relatively stable, and the water temperature change can more accurately reflect the effect of solar heating.

[0089] At this point, the control system will detect the current water temperature. If the water heater's temperature is less than the third temperature threshold, it indicates that the water temperature has not yet reached the ideal state and requires further investigation of the water temperature changes over a period of time. At this time, the control system will start a water temperature rise determination cycle with a preset duration. During this preset duration, it will continuously detect the rise in water temperature and calculate the water temperature rise value during this period.

[0090] If the calculated water temperature rise is less than or equal to the preset value after the preset time, this means that the water temperature has risen relatively slowly within the preset time, indicating that the solar heating rate is low. This is likely due to insufficient sunlight, which prevents the solar collector from efficiently absorbing heat to raise the water temperature. To ensure that the water heater can provide sufficient hot water in a timely manner to meet user needs, the control system will determine that the water heater operates in solar heat pump mode and start the heat pump for auxiliary heating to compensate for the lack of solar heating.

[0091] If the water temperature rises by more than the preset value within the preset time period, it indicates that the water temperature has risen rapidly during this period. This indicates that the solar collector is efficiently absorbing solar energy and converting it into heat energy within the preset time period, causing the water temperature to rise rapidly. This indicates that the current lighting conditions are good and solar energy resources are sufficient, and solar energy alone can effectively meet the water heater's heating needs. Therefore, the control system will set the water heater to operate in solar mode, allowing it to fully utilize solar energy for heating, achieving efficient energy utilization and energy-saving operation.

[0092] For example, the first temperature threshold is 5°C, the third temperature threshold is set to 40°C, the preset time is 18 hours, and the preset rise value is 10°C. When the control system detects that the ambient temperature is 20°C, which is greater than or equal to 5°C and less than or equal to 40°C, it further detects the water temperature of the water heater. If the water temperature is 30°C and less than 40°C at this time, it begins to observe the changes in water temperature within 18 hours. If the water temperature only rises by 8°C within 18 hours, which is less than or equal to the preset rise value of 10°C, it determines that the water heater working mode is solar heating pump mode; if the water temperature rises by 12°C within 18 hours, which is greater than the preset rise value of 10°C, it determines that the water heater working mode is solar mode.

[0093] S302: When the water temperature of the water heater is greater than or equal to a third temperature threshold, determine that the operating mode of the water heater is a solar energy mode.

[0094] When the water temperature in the water heater is greater than or equal to this third temperature threshold, it indicates that the water temperature has reached a relatively high level. The control system determines that the current environmental conditions (such as light intensity and duration) can provide sufficient heat for the water heater to reach a relatively ideal water temperature. In this case, continued use of solar heating can meet the hot water supply demand. Therefore, the control system determines that the water heater operates in solar mode.

[0095] For example, the first temperature threshold is set to 5°C and the third temperature threshold is set to 40°C. When the control system detects that the ambient temperature of the water heater is 25°C, which is within the temperature range of greater than or equal to 5°C and less than or equal to 40°C, and at the same time detects that the water temperature inside the water heater has reached 40°C or above, for example, 42°C, and meets the condition that the water temperature is greater than or equal to the third temperature threshold, then it can be determined that the working mode of the water heater is solar mode.

[0096] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the process of controlling the water heater provided in this application Figure 4 .like Figure 4As shown, when the temperature interval is that the ambient temperature is greater than the third temperature threshold, the working mode judgment rule corresponding to the temperature interval is:

[0097] S401: When the water temperature of the water heater is at any value, determining that the working mode of the water heater is a solar energy mode.

[0098] When the ambient temperature is greater than the third temperature threshold, it means that the external environment has relatively favorable conditions for solar energy utilization. The operating mode is determined under this condition, aiming to fully utilize natural energy, reduce unnecessary energy consumption, and achieve efficient and energy-saving operation goals.

[0099] At this time, there is no specific restriction on the water temperature inside the water heater, that is, no matter what numerical state the water temperature of the water heater is in, whether it is a low temperature when it is just started or a high temperature after a period of heating, it will not affect the subsequent mode judgment. Because the condition that the ambient temperature is greater than the third temperature threshold, it has been shown that factors such as the solar radiation intensity and heat transfer efficiency in the current environment are conducive to the efficient operation of the solar collector. In this case, solar energy, as a clean and renewable energy source, can provide a sufficient source of heat for the water heater. Based on the above-mentioned conditions that the ambient temperature is greater than the third temperature threshold and the water temperature of the water heater is an arbitrary value, the control system will determine that the working mode of the water heater is the solar mode.

[0100] For example, the third temperature threshold is set to 40°C. When the ambient temperature detection system of the water heater shows 45°C, which is greater than the threshold of 40°C, the corresponding working mode judgment process is entered. At this time, no matter whether the water temperature inside the water heater is 20°C or 35°C or any other value, the control system will determine the working mode of the water heater as solar energy mode according to the rules, and make full use of the solar energy resources in the current high temperature environment for heating.

[0101] As a possible implementation, the water temperature of the water heater is detected according to a preset detection cycle, and / or the water temperature of the water heater is detected after each water addition to the water heater is completed.

[0102] The control system monitors the water temperature of the water heater according to a preset detection cycle. For example, for water heaters with larger capacities and slower heating rates, the detection cycle may be relatively long; whereas for water heaters that are more sensitive to changes in water temperature and are used more frequently, the detection cycle will be set to a shorter one. Through regular testing, the control system can understand the dynamic trends of water temperature changes in real time and promptly detect abnormal water temperature fluctuations, such as slow temperature rise caused by a malfunctioning heating element or a rapid drop in water temperature caused by a decrease in thermal insulation performance. Once an anomaly is detected, the control system can quickly issue an alarm or automatically adjust the operating mode to avoid problems such as insufficient hot water supply or energy waste.

[0103] In addition to performing checks according to the preset detection cycle, the control system also checks the water temperature after each water addition. Adding water directly affects the water temperature of the water heater, and the temperature of the newly added water is often different from the original water temperature in the water heater. By checking the water temperature immediately after adding water, the control system can accurately determine the actual water temperature in the water heater after adding water. For example, if the water temperature is low after adding water, the control system can promptly activate the heating device and raise the water temperature to the user's desired temperature according to the preset heating strategy. If the water temperature is already close to the set temperature after adding water, the control system can appropriately reduce the heating power or extend the heating interval to achieve energy conservation.

[0104] For example, a smart water heater sets a preset detection cycle to automatically detect the water temperature every 2 hours. When the water heater is operating normally, the control system will start the detection program on time every 2 hours to obtain water temperature data; if the user adds water to the water heater due to insufficient hot water during use, then the control system will immediately trigger a water temperature detection at the moment the water adding operation is completed.

[0105] As a possible implementation, when the water level of the water heater does not exceed a preset water level threshold, the operating mode of the water heater is determined to be a solar energy mode.

[0106] When the control system monitors the water heater's water level in real time and finds it's within a preset threshold, it indicates the water level in the heater is relatively low. This can occur in a variety of scenarios, such as a recent high water consumption, causing the water level to drop, or the heater may have just been drained and not yet fully replenished. The fact that the water level doesn't exceed the preset threshold indicates that solar heating is likely sufficient to meet the current hot water demand.

[0107] For example, the preset water level threshold of a certain smart water heater is 80% of the total water tank capacity. When the water level sensor detects that the current water level in the water tank is 60% of the total water tank capacity and does not exceed the preset water level threshold, the control system automatically determines that the working mode of the water heater is solar mode.

[0108] Figure 5 The schematic diagram of the control device of the water heater provided in this application is as follows: Figure 5 As shown, the control device 500 of the water heater provided in this embodiment includes:

[0109] The detection module 501 is used to detect the ambient temperature of the water heater when the water level of the water heater is higher than a preset water level threshold;

[0110] The determination module 502 is used to determine the working mode of the water heater according to the temperature range to which the ambient temperature belongs and the working mode judgment rule corresponding to the temperature range, and the working mode is the solar mode or the solar heat pump mode.

[0111] As an optional implementation, the determination module 502 further includes: determining that the operating mode of the water heater is a solar heat pump mode when the water temperature of the water heater is lower than a second temperature threshold;

[0112] The determination module 502 is further configured to determine that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar energy mode when the water temperature of the water heater is greater than or equal to a second temperature threshold.

[0113] As an optional implementation, the determination module 502 is further configured to determine an operating mode of the water heater according to a change in the water temperature of the water heater when the water temperature of the water heater is less than a third temperature threshold;

[0114] The determination module 502 is further configured to determine that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar energy mode when the water temperature of the water heater is greater than or equal to a third temperature threshold.

[0115] As an optional embodiment, the determination module 502 is further configured to determine that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar heat pump mode when the water temperature of the water heater increases by less than or equal to a preset increase value within a preset time period;

[0116] The determination module 502 is further configured to determine that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar energy mode when the water temperature of the water heater rises by more than a preset rise value within a preset time period.

[0117] As an optional implementation, the determination module 502 is further configured to determine that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar energy mode when the water temperature of the water heater is any value.

[0118] As an optional implementation, the detection module 501 is further configured to detect the water temperature of the water heater according to a preset detection cycle, and / or detect the water temperature of the water heater after each water addition to the water heater is completed.

[0119] As an optional implementation, the determination module 502 is further configured to determine that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar energy mode when the water level of the water heater does not exceed a preset water level threshold.

[0120] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the control device of the water heater provided in this application. Figure 6 As shown, the present application provides a control device for a water heater. The control device 600 of the water heater includes: a sensor 601 , a receiver 602 , a transmitter 603 , a processor 604 and a memory 605 .

[0121] Sensor 601, used to detect ambient temperature and water temperature;

[0122] Receiver 602, for receiving instructions and data;

[0123] Transmitter 603, used to send instructions and data;

[0124] Memory 605, for storing computer-executable instructions;

[0125] The processor 604 is configured to execute the computer-executable instructions stored in the memory 605 to implement the various steps of the water heater control method in the above embodiment. For details, please refer to the relevant description of the water heater control method embodiment.

[0126] Optionally, the memory 605 may be independent or integrated with the processor 604 .

[0127] When the memory 605 is independently provided, the electronic device further includes a bus for connecting the memory 605 and the processor 604 .

[0128] The present application also provides a computer-readable storage medium, in which computer-executable instructions are stored. When a processor executes the computer-executable instructions, a water heater control method as executed by the water heater control device described above is implemented.

[0129] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that all or some of the steps, systems, and functional modules / units in the methods, systems, and devices disclosed above may be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof. In hardware implementations, the division between functional modules / units described above does not necessarily correspond to the division between physical components; for example, a physical component may have multiple functions, or a function or step may be performed collaboratively by several physical components. Some or all of the physical components may be implemented as software executed by a processor, such as a central processing unit, a digital signal processor, or a microprocessor, or as hardware, or as an integrated circuit, such as an application-specific integrated circuit. Such software may be distributed on computer-readable media, which may include computer storage media (or non-transitory media) and communication media (or transient media). As is well known to those skilled in the art, the term computer storage media encompasses both volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store the desired information and can be accessed by a computer. In addition, as is well known to those skilled in the art, communication media typically embodies computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and may include any information delivery media.

[0130] So far, the technical solution of the present application has been described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it is easy for those skilled in the art to understand that the scope of protection of the present application is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solution of the present application, rather than to limit it. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, ordinary technicians in this field should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some or all of the technical features therein. However, these modifications or replacements do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solution to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a water heater, characterized in that: The water heater is a solar heat pump water heater, and the method comprises: When the water level of the water heater is higher than a preset water level threshold, detecting the ambient temperature of the water heater; The working mode of the water heater is determined according to the temperature range to which the ambient temperature belongs and the working mode judgment rule corresponding to the temperature range, and the working mode is a solar energy mode or a solar heating pump mode.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that When the ambient temperature in the temperature interval is less than the first temperature threshold, the operating mode determination rule corresponding to the temperature interval is: When the water temperature of the water heater is lower than a second temperature threshold, determining that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar heat pump mode; When the water temperature of the water heater is greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold, the operating mode of the water heater is determined to be the solar energy mode.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that When the ambient temperature in the temperature interval is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold and less than or equal to the third temperature threshold, the operating mode determination rule corresponding to the temperature interval is: When the water temperature of the water heater is lower than the third temperature threshold, determining the operating mode of the water heater according to the change of the water temperature of the water heater; When the water temperature of the water heater is greater than or equal to the third temperature threshold, the operating mode of the water heater is determined to be the solar energy mode.

4. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that The step of determining the operating mode of the water heater according to a change in the water temperature of the water heater includes: When the water temperature of the water heater increases by a value less than or equal to a preset increase value within a preset time period, determining that the operating mode of the water heater is the solar heating pump mode; When the water temperature of the water heater increases by more than the preset increase value within the preset time period, the operating mode of the water heater is determined to be the solar energy mode.

5. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that When the temperature interval is such that the ambient temperature is greater than the third temperature threshold, the operating mode determination rule corresponding to the temperature interval is: When the water temperature of the water heater is at any value, the operating mode of the water heater is determined to be the solar energy mode.

6. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that: Also includes: The water temperature of the water heater is detected according to a preset detection cycle, and / or the water temperature of the water heater is detected after each water addition to the water heater is completed.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that Also includes: When the water level of the water heater does not exceed the preset water level threshold, the operating mode of the water heater is determined to be the solar energy mode.

8. A control device for a water heater, characterized in that: include: a detection module, configured to detect the ambient temperature of the water heater when the water level of the water heater is higher than a preset water level threshold; The determination module is used to determine the working mode of the water heater according to the temperature range to which the ambient temperature belongs and the working mode judgment rule corresponding to the temperature range, and the working mode is a solar energy mode or a solar heating pump mode.

9. A water heater control device, characterized in that: include: Sensors, memory, processors; The sensor is used to detect ambient temperature and water temperature; The memory stores computer-executable instructions; The processor executes the computer-executable instructions stored in the memory, so that the processor performs the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that The computer-readable storage medium stores computer-executable instructions, which are used to implement the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7 when executed by a processor.

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