Hot water preheating control method and system

Abstract

The invention discloses a hot water preheating control method and system, and the method comprises the steps: responding to a preheating function starting signal, communicating a circulation preheating loop, obtaining the current time, judging whether the current time is within a rest time period set by a user, and if the current time is within the rest time period set by the user, starting the circulation preheating loop; if yes, the rotating speed of the circulating water pump is controlled to be gradually increased from zero until the gas water heating equipment starts heating, the rotating speed of the circulating water pump when the gas water heating equipment starts heating serves as the target rotating speed, and the circulating water pump is controlled to operate at the target rotating speed. The target rotating speed is the minimum starting rotating speed corresponding to the minimum water flow at which the gas water heating equipment can be normally started for heating in the current state, so that the rotating speed of the circulating water pump is controlled to enable the water flow of the circulating preheating loop to just enable the gas water heating equipment to be started, and the circulating water pump runs at the rotating speed of a lower level; and noise generated by the circulating water pump in the circulating preheating process in the rest time period is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to water heater control technology, and in particular to a hot water preheating control method and system. Background Art

[0002] The preheat function allows the water heater to heat up instantly without having to wait for cold water to drain out. This technology uses a circulating pump inside the water heater to preheat the cold water before the user uses it. This pump circulates the cold water back into the water heater for preheating, ensuring that the pipes are filled with hot water, thus eliminating the need to wait for the cold water to drain out at the water point.

[0003] During the circulation preheating process, the circulating water pump needs to be started. During the operation of the circulating water pump, medium and low frequency noise will be generated with strong penetrating power. Especially in the quiet night, the impact of the noise is particularly obvious, which reduces the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One of the technical problems solved by the present invention is to provide a hot water preheating control method that can reduce the noise generated by a circulating water pump during the circulation preheating process during a rest period.

[0005] The second technical problem solved by the present invention is to provide a hot water preheating system that can reduce the noise generated by the circulating water pump during the circulation preheating process during the rest period.

[0006] The first technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0007] A hot water preheating control method is applied to a hot water preheating system, wherein the hot water preheating system includes a gas-fired hot water device and a water point, wherein a circulating preheating loop is formed between the gas-fired hot water device and the water point, and wherein a circulating water pump is provided on the circulating preheating loop; the method comprises:

[0008] In response to a preheating function start signal of a current water point, the circulating preheating circuit is connected, and a minimum starting speed of a circulating water pump corresponding to a minimum water flow rate when the gas water heater starts heating is obtained;

[0009] In response to a preheating function start signal, connecting the circulating preheating circuit;

[0010] Get the current time and determine whether the current time is within the rest time period set by the user;

[0011] If the current time is in the rest time period set by the user, the speed of the circulating water pump is controlled to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating, and the speed of the circulating water pump when the gas water heater starts heating is used as the target speed, and the circulating water pump is controlled to operate at the target speed.

[0012] The hot water preheating control method provided by the present invention responds to a preheating function start signal, connects a circulating preheating circuit, obtains the current time, and determines whether the current time is within a user-set rest period. If the current time is within the user-set rest period, the speed of the circulating water pump is controlled to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating. The speed of the circulating water pump when the gas water heater starts heating is used as a target speed, and the circulating water pump is controlled to operate at the target speed. The target speed is the minimum starting speed corresponding to the minimum water flow rate that allows the gas water heater to start heating normally under the current state. In this way, the speed of the circulating water pump is controlled so that the water flow rate in the circulating preheating circuit is just enough to start the gas water heater. At this time, the circulating water pump operates at a lower speed, reducing the noise generated by the circulating water pump during the circulating preheating process during the rest period.

[0013] In some embodiments of the present invention, a hot water preheating control method includes:

[0014] In response to a preheating function start signal, connecting the circulating preheating circuit;

[0015] Get the current time and determine whether the current time is within the rest time period set by the user;

[0016] If the current time is within the rest period set by the user, then determine whether the preheating function start signal is triggered for the first time within the rest period set by the user;

[0017] If so, controlling the speed of the circulating water pump to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating, taking the speed of the circulating water pump when the gas water heater starts heating as the target speed and saving it, and controlling the circulating water pump to operate at the target speed;

[0018] If not, obtain the target speed and control the circulating water pump to operate at the target speed; wherein, the target speed is 105%-110% of the target speed of the circulating water pump corresponding to the preheating function start signal triggered for the first time by the gas water heater during the rest time period set by the user.

[0019] In some embodiments of the present invention, after controlling the circulating water pump to operate at the target speed, the method further includes:

[0020] Controlling the gas water heater to operate at a first heating power, wherein the first heating power is greater than a second heating power; the second heating power is determined by an inlet water temperature, an inlet water flow rate, and a set preheating temperature of the gas water heater;

[0021] After the gas water heater operates at the first heating power for a preset period of time, the gas water heater is controlled to operate at the second heating power.

[0022] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first heating power is determined by the inlet water temperature, the inlet water flow rate and the target preheating temperature of the gas water heater; wherein the target preheating temperature is the sum of the set preheating temperature and the compensation value, and the compensation value is L, 0°C <L≤5℃。

[0023] In some embodiments of the present invention, in response to a preheating function start signal, connecting the circulating preheating circuit includes:

[0024] Determining whether there is a cyclic preheating record within a preset period before receiving the preheating function start signal;

[0025] If there is no circulation preheating record, connect the circulation preheating circuit;

[0026] If there is a cycle preheating record, determining the target water usage point that sends the preheating function start signal in the cycle preheating record;

[0027] Determine whether the current water use point is downstream of the target water use point;

[0028] If the current water point is downstream of the target water point, the circulating preheating circuit is connected;

[0029] If the current water use point is not downstream of the target water use point, the circulating preheating loop is not connected.

[0030] In some embodiments of the present invention, if the current water consumption point is downstream of the target water consumption point, the hot water preheating control method further includes:

[0031] Obtaining the amount of water in the pipe between the target water point and the current water point;

[0032] When the circulating preheating loop is connected, the water flow rate of the water inlet pipe is obtained and the timing is started;

[0033] Calculating the real-time circulating water volume based on the water flow rate and the circulating preheating time;

[0034] Determine whether the real-time circulating water volume reaches the water volume in the pipe;

[0035] If not, return to the step of calculating the real-time circulating water volume based on the water flow rate and the circulating preheating time;

[0036] If so, the gas water heater is controlled to stop heating.

[0037] In some embodiments of the present invention, if the current water consumption point is downstream of the target water consumption point, the hot water preheating control method further includes:

[0038] Obtaining a preset cycle time required for circulating the water volume in the pipe between the target water point and the current water point under a cycle preheating condition;

[0039] The timing starts when the circulating preheating circuit is connected;

[0040] Determine whether the loop duration reaches the preset loop duration;

[0041] If not, return to the step of determining whether the cycle duration reaches the preset cycle duration;

[0042] If so, the gas water heater is controlled to stop heating.

[0043] In some embodiments of the present invention, at the end of each preheating cycle, the hot water preheating control method further includes:

[0044] The cycle preheating is recorded to generate a cycle preheating record, wherein the cycle preheating record includes a water usage point that sends a preheating function start signal.

[0045] In some embodiments of the present invention, the hot water preheating control method further includes:

[0046] When the gas water heater triggers the preheating function start signal for the first time, it learns the preset circulating water volume in the pipeline between each water use point and the gas water heater, or the preset circulation time required to circulate the water volume in the pipeline between each water use point and the gas water heater.

[0047] The second technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0048] A hot water preheating system, comprising:

[0049] A gas water heater, comprising a circulating water pump; the gas water heater is configured to execute the hot water preheating control method provided in the foregoing embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] A cold water pipe connected to the water inlet of the gas water heater;

[0051] a hot water pipe, the hot water pipe being connected to the water outlet end of the gas water heater, the cold water pipe having its farthest end from the gas water heater and its farthest end from the hot water pipe being connected via a one-way valve; or a return water pipe, the first end of the return water pipe being connected to the return water end of the gas water heater, the second end of the return water pipe being connected to the hot water pipe having its farthest end from the gas water heater via a one-way valve;

[0052] At least two water points, wherein the cold water inlet of each water point is connected to the cold water pipe, and the hot water inlet of each water point is connected to the hot water pipe;

[0053] At least two preheating function triggers, wherein the preheating function triggers are associated with the water use points and are used to send preheating function start signals.

[0054] It should be understood that the content described in this section is not intended to identify the key or important features of the embodiments of the present invention, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Other features of the present invention will become readily understood through the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative work.

[0056] Figure 1 A flow chart of a hot water preheating control method provided by the present invention;

[0057] Figure 2 A flow chart of another hot water preheating control method provided by the present invention;

[0058] Figure 3 A flow chart illustrating the situation of the connected circulating preheating circuit provided by the present invention;

[0059] Figure 4 A schematic structural diagram of a hot water preheating system provided by the present invention;

[0060] Figure 5 A schematic structural diagram of another hot water preheating system provided by the present invention;

[0061] Figure 6 A schematic structural diagram of a hot water preheating control device provided by the present invention;

[0062] Figure 7 This is a structural diagram of an electronic device provided by the present invention.

[0063] Description of reference numerals:

[0064] 110 / 210, gas water heater; 120 / 220, cold water pipe; 130 / 230, hot water pipe; 140 / 240, one-way valve; 150 / 250, water point; 160 / 260, preheating function trigger; 270, return pipe.

[0065] 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

[0066] In order to enable those skilled in the art to better understand the solutions of the present invention, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0067] It should be noted that the terms "first", "second", etc. in the description and claims of the present invention and the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that the numbers used in this way can be interchanged where appropriate, so that the embodiments of the present invention described herein can be implemented in an order other than those illustrated or described herein. In addition, the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions. For example, a process, method, system, product or device that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units clearly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not clearly listed or inherent to these processes, methods, products or devices.

[0068] Figure 1 This is a flow chart of a hot water preheating control method provided by the present invention. This embodiment can be applied to reduce the noise generated by cyclic preheating during a user-modified time period. The method can be executed by the hot water preheating control device provided by the present invention. The device can be implemented in software and / or hardware and is usually configured in an electronic device, such as Figure 1 As shown, the hot water preheating control method includes the following steps:

[0069] S101 , in response to a preheating function start signal, connecting a circulating preheating circuit.

[0070] The hot water preheating system includes a gas water heater and multiple water points. A circulating preheating loop is formed between the gas water heater and each water point. This circulating preheating loop is closed when the preheating function is not required (i.e., circulating preheating). When the gas water heater receives a preheating activation signal from the current water point, it responds to the preheating activation signal and connects the circulating preheating loop between the current water point and the gas water heater.

[0071] Illustratively, the preheating function start signal of the current water use point can be triggered in various forms, for example, the current water use point opens and closes the current water use point multiple times in a short period of time (i.e., moment triggering), or a trigger is set on the water use point, and the trigger is communicated with the gas water heater. The user can send the preheating function start signal to the gas water heater directly through the trigger, or through a relay (such as a client), and the present invention is not limited here.

[0072] S102: Obtain the current time and determine whether the current time is within the rest time period set by the user.

[0073] Upon receiving the preheating function activation signal for the current water point, the current time is obtained and a determination is made as to whether the current time falls within the rest period set by the user. For example, the rest period can be set based on the user's work and rest needs, for example, 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM as the rest period and the remaining time periods as the non-rest period. If the current time falls within the rest period set by the user, step S103 is executed; if the current time does not fall within the rest period set by the user, step S104 is executed.

[0074] S103, controlling the speed of the circulating water pump to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating, and taking the speed of the circulating water pump when the gas water heater starts heating as the target speed, controlling the circulating water pump to operate at the target speed.

[0075] For example, the gas water heater starts heating when the water flow in the water inlet pipe is greater than a set water flow. The set water flow is called the minimum water flow, and the speed of the circulating water pump corresponding to the minimum water flow is called the minimum starting speed.

[0076] Since the resistance of the user's piping system may change as the water usage time increases (for example, the increase in scale in the pipe leads to increased resistance), the minimum starting speed of the circulating water pump corresponding to the minimum water flow when the gas water heater starts heating may change. In an embodiment of the present invention, if the current time is within the rest time period set by the user, the speed of the circulating water pump is controlled to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating, and the speed of the circulating water pump when the gas water heater starts heating is used as the target speed, and the circulating water pump is controlled to operate at the target speed for circulation preheating. The target speed is the minimum starting speed corresponding to the minimum water flow at which the gas water heater can start heating normally under the current state. In this way, the speed of the circulating water pump is controlled so that the water flow in the circulating preheating circuit can just allow the gas water heater to start. At this time, the circulating water pump is running at a lower speed, which reduces the noise generated by the circulating water pump during the circulation preheating process during the rest time period.

[0077] S104: Control the circulating water pump to rotate at a set speed.

[0078] In S102 above, if the current time is not within the rest period set by the user, the circulating water pump is controlled to rotate at the set speed for circulation preheating. The set speed is greater than the target speed as long as the gas water heater can be started normally. Since the current time is not within the rest period set by the user, even if the circulating water pump runs at a higher speed, it will not affect the user.

[0079] The hot water preheating control method provided by the present invention responds to a preheating function start signal, connects a circulating preheating circuit, obtains the current time, and determines whether the current time is within a user-set rest period. If the current time is within the user-set rest period, the speed of the circulating water pump is controlled to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating. The speed of the circulating water pump when the gas water heater starts heating is used as a target speed, and the circulating water pump is controlled to operate at the target speed. The target speed is the minimum starting speed corresponding to the minimum water flow rate that allows the gas water heater to start heating normally under the current state. In this way, the speed of the circulating water pump is controlled so that the water flow rate in the circulating preheating circuit is just enough to start the gas water heater. At this time, the circulating water pump operates at a lower speed, reducing the noise generated by the circulating water pump during the circulating preheating process during the rest period.

[0080] In the above embodiment, during the rest period set by the user, each time before starting the circulation preheating, the speed of the circulating water pump needs to be controlled to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating and the target speed is determined. This process takes a certain amount of time and may cause the circulation preheating efficiency to decrease, thereby reducing the user experience. To solve this problem, the present invention provides another hot water preheating control method. Figure 2 A flow chart of another hot water preheating control method provided by the present invention, such as Figure 2 As shown, the hot water preheating control method includes:

[0081] S201 , in response to a preheating function start signal, connecting a circulating preheating circuit.

[0082] The hot water preheating system includes a gas water heater and multiple water points. A circulating preheating loop is formed between the gas water heater and each water point. This circulating preheating loop is closed when the preheating function is not required (i.e., circulating preheating). When the gas water heater receives a preheating activation signal from the current water point, it responds to the preheating activation signal and connects the circulating preheating loop between the current water point and the gas water heater.

[0083] Illustratively, the preheating function start signal of the current water use point can be triggered in various forms, for example, the current water use point opens and closes the current water use point multiple times in a short period of time (i.e., moment triggering), or a trigger is set on the water use point, and the trigger is communicated with the gas water heater. The user can send the preheating function start signal to the gas water heater directly through the trigger, or through a relay (such as a client), and the present invention is not limited here.

[0084] S202: Obtain the current time and determine whether the current time is within the rest time period set by the user.

[0085] Upon receiving the preheating function activation signal for the current water point, the current time is obtained and a determination is made as to whether the current time falls within the rest period set by the user. For example, the rest period can be set based on the user's work and rest needs, for example, setting 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM as the rest period and the remaining time periods as the non-rest period. If the current time falls within the rest period set by the user, step S203 is executed; if the current time does not fall within the rest period set by the user, step S206 is executed.

[0086] S203: Determine whether the preheating function start signal is triggered for the first time within the rest time period set by the user.

[0087] For example, the gas water heater records each time it receives a preheating function activation signal. If the current time is within the user-set rest period, the appliance determines based on the preheating function activation signal record whether the currently received preheating function activation signal is the first preheating function activation signal triggered within the user-set rest period. If so, step S204 is executed; if not, step S205 is executed.

[0088] S204. Control the speed of the circulating water pump to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating. The speed of the circulating water pump when the gas water heater starts heating is saved as the target speed, and the circulating water pump is controlled to operate at the target speed.

[0089] If the currently received preheating function start signal is the first preheating function start signal triggered during the user-set rest period, the circulating water pump speed is controlled to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating. The circulating water pump speed at the time the gas water heater starts heating is saved as the target speed, and the circulating water pump is controlled to operate at the target speed. The target speed is the minimum starting speed corresponding to the minimum water flow rate that allows the gas water heater to start heating normally under the current state. In this way, the circulating water pump speed is controlled so that the water flow in the circulating preheating loop is just enough to start the gas water heater. At this time, the circulating water pump operates at a lower speed, reducing the noise generated by the circulating water pump during the circulation preheating process during the rest period.

[0090] S205: Obtain the target speed, and control the circulating water pump to operate at the target speed.

[0091] In an embodiment of the present invention, when the preheating function start signal is triggered for the first time within the rest time period set by the user, the speed of the circulating water pump is controlled to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating, and the speed of the circulating water pump when the gas water heater starts heating is used as the target speed and saved. If the preheating function start signal currently received is not the preheating function start signal triggered for the first time within the rest time period set by the user, the target speed is obtained, and the circulating water pump is controlled to operate at the target speed. The target speed is 105%-110% of the target speed of the circulating water pump corresponding to the first time the preheating function start signal is triggered by the gas water heater within the rest time period set by the user, so as to avoid the problem that the resistance of the pipeline system may change with the increase of water use time, resulting in the failure of the gas water heater to start.

[0092] S206: Control the circulating water pump to rotate at a set speed.

[0093] In S202 above, if the current time is not within the rest period set by the user, the circulating water pump is controlled to rotate at the set speed for circulation preheating. The set speed is greater than the target speed as long as the gas water heater can be started normally. Since the current time is not within the rest period set by the user, even if the circulating water pump runs at a higher speed, it will not affect the user.

[0094] Figure 3 The flow chart of the present invention is a flow chart illustrating the situation of the connected circulation preheating circuit, which further explains the specific situation of the connected circulation preheating circuit. Figure 3 As shown, the above steps S101 and S201 include the following sub-steps:

[0095] S11 , determining whether there is a cyclic preheating record within a preset period before receiving a preheating function start signal.

[0096] In an embodiment of the present invention, each time a cycle preheating ends, the cycle preheating is recorded to generate a cycle preheating record, which includes the water usage point and the end time when the preheating function start signal is issued.

[0097] In this embodiment of the present invention, upon receiving a preheating function activation signal at a current water point, the gas water heater, in response to the preheating function activation signal, determines whether a cyclic preheating record exists within a preset period (e.g., 5 minutes) prior to receiving the preheating function activation signal. If no cyclic preheating record exists, S12 is executed; if a cyclic preheating record exists, S13 is executed.

[0098] S12, connect the circulating preheating circuit.

[0099] If there is no circulation preheating record, the circulation preheating loop is directly connected and S102 or S202 is executed.

[0100] S13. Determine the target water usage point that issues a preheating function start signal in the circulation preheating record.

[0101] If there is a cycle preheating record, check the cycle preheating record to determine the target water use point that sends the preheating function start signal in the cycle preheating record.

[0102] S14: Determine whether the current water use point is downstream of the target water use point.

[0103] Determine whether the current water point is downstream of the target water point. It should be noted that in the present invention, upstream and downstream are determined based on the gas water heater as the source and the direction of hot water flow in the hot water pipe as a reference. If the current water point is downstream of the target water point, execute S15; otherwise, execute S16.

[0104] S15, connect the circulating preheating circuit.

[0105] Since there is hot water in the hot water pipe between the gas water heater and the target water point after the previous cycle preheating in a short period of time, and the current water point is downstream of the target water point, it means that there is hot water in the hot water pipe between the gas water heater and the target water point, but there is unheated water in the hot water pipe between the current water point and the target water point. Therefore, it is still necessary to connect the circulation preheating loop and continue to execute S102 or S202.

[0106] S16: The circulating preheating circuit is not connected.

[0107] Since hot water already exists in the hot water pipe between the gas water heater and the target water point after the previous cycle preheating within a short period of time, and the current water point is not downstream of the target water point, it indicates that hot water already exists in the hot water pipe between the gas water heater and the current water point. Therefore, it is not necessary to connect the cycle preheating circuit, and cycle preheating is not required, and the process of the present invention ends. This avoids the noise generated by repeated activation of cycle preheating and avoids energy waste, thereby improving energy efficiency.

[0108] In some embodiments of the present invention, after controlling the circulating water pump to operate at the target speed, the method further includes:

[0109] S21. Control the gas water heater to operate at a first heating power.

[0110] Since the circulating water pump operates at a target speed, which is relatively low, it will cause an increase in heat dissipation in the pipeline during the circulating preheating process, resulting in a decrease in the circulating preheating efficiency. The temperature at the water usage point will deviate significantly from the target temperature set for the water usage point. Therefore, in the embodiments of the present invention, in order to compensate for the heat loss during the circulating preheating process, the heating power corresponding to the target temperature set for the current water usage point is referred to as the second heating power. The gas water heating device is controlled to operate at the first heating power, and the first heating power is greater than the second heating power. The second heating power is jointly determined by the inlet water temperature, inlet water flow rate, and the set preheating temperature of the gas water heating device. In this way, the outlet water temperature of the gas water heating device is increased to overcome the heat absorbed and dissipated by the water pipe, shortening the heating time, and avoiding the decrease in the circulating preheating efficiency caused by the reduction of the circulating water pump speed.

[0111] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first heating power is jointly determined by the inlet water temperature, inlet water flow rate, and the target preheating temperature of the gas water heating device. Among them, the target preheating temperature is the sum of the set preheating temperature and the compensation value, and the size of the compensation value is L, where 0°C < L ≤ 5°C. In this way, the outlet water temperature of the gas water heating device is increased to overcome the heat absorbed and dissipated by the water pipe, shortening the heating time, and avoiding the decrease in the circulating preheating efficiency caused by the reduction of the circulating water pump speed.

[0112] S22. After the gas water heating device operates at the first heating power for a preset duration, control the gas water heating device to operate at the second heating power.

[0113] After the gas water heating device operates at the first heating power for a preset duration (for example, 4 seconds), control the gas water heating device to operate normally at the second heating power.

[0114] In some embodiments of the present invention, the hot water preheating control method further includes:

[0115] S31. When the water temperature at the current water usage point reaches the set preheating temperature, control the gas water heating device to stop heating, and the circulating preheating ends.

[0116] During the circulating preheating process, continuously monitor whether the water temperature at the current water usage point reaches the set preheating temperature. When the water temperature at the current water usage point does not reach the set preheating temperature, continue the circulating preheating. When the water temperature at the current water usage point reaches the set preheating temperature, control the gas water heating device to stop heating, the circulating preheating ends, close the circulating preheating circuit, and control the circulating water pump to stop rotating.

[0117] In some embodiments of the present invention, if there is no circulating preheating record within a preset period before receiving the preheating function start signal, it indicates that the hot water pipe between the gas water heating device and the current water usage point is full of cold water. Then, the above step S31 includes the following sub-steps:

[0118] S3111. Obtain the preset circulating water volume required for the water temperature from the connected circulating preheating loop to the current water use point to reach the set preheating temperature.

[0119] For example, when the gas water heater is first operated after installation, the preset circulating water volume in the pipes between each water point and the gas water heater is learned and stored in memory. During actual use, the preset circulating water volume required to reach the set preheating temperature from the connected circulating preheating loop to the current water point is retrieved from the memory, i.e., the preset circulating water volume in the hot water pipe between the gas water heater and the current water point.

[0120] S3112. When the circulating preheating circuit is connected, the water flow rate of the water inlet pipe is obtained and timing is started.

[0121] When the circulating preheating loop is connected, the water flow rate of the water inlet pipe is obtained and the timing is started. For example, the water flow rate of the water inlet pipe can be obtained by a flow sensor built into the water inlet pipe.

[0122] S3113. Calculate the real-time circulating water volume based on the water flow rate and the circulating preheating time.

[0123] Exemplarily, the product of the water flow rate and the circulation preheating time is calculated to obtain the real-time circulation water volume.

[0124] S3114. Determine whether the real-time circulating water volume reaches the preset circulating water volume.

[0125] If not, it means that there is still cold water in the hot water pipe between the gas water heater and the current water use point, and the hot water has not yet reached the current water use point, then return to execute S3113: calculate the real-time circulating water volume based on the water flow and circulation preheating time; if yes, it means that the hot water has reached the current water use point, then execute S3115.

[0126] S3115. Control the gas water heater to stop heating.

[0127] If the real-time circulating water volume reaches the preset circulating water volume, the circulating preheating loop will be closed, the circulating water pump will be controlled to stop rotating, and the gas water heater will be controlled to stop heating.

[0128] In some embodiments of the present invention, if there is no cyclic preheating record within the preset period before the preheating function start signal is received, indicating that the hot water pipe between the gas water heater and the current water point is all cold water, then the above step S31 includes the following sub-steps:

[0129] S3121. Obtain the preset cycle time required for the water temperature at the current water point to reach the set preheating temperature from the connected circulation preheating loop.

[0130] For example, when the gas water heater is first operated, a preset cycle time is learned and stored in memory, from the time the circulating preheating circuit is connected until the water temperature at each water point reaches the set temperature. During actual use, the preset cycle time required from the time the circulating preheating circuit is connected until the water temperature at the current water point reaches the set preheating temperature is retrieved from the memory.

[0131] S3122. Start timing when the circulating preheating circuit is connected.

[0132] S3123: Determine whether the cycle duration reaches the preset cycle duration.

[0133] Determine whether the cycle time reaches the preset cycle time. If it does not reach the preset cycle time, it means that there is still cold water in the hot water pipe between the gas water heating equipment and the current water use point, and the hot water has not yet reached the current water use point, then return to execute S3123: Determine whether the cycle time reaches the preset cycle time; if it reaches the preset cycle time, it means that the hot water has reached the current water use point, then execute S3124.

[0134] S3124, control the gas water heater to stop heating.

[0135] If the cycle time reaches the preset cycle time, the circulation preheating loop will be closed, the circulation water pump will be controlled to stop rotating, and the gas water heater will be controlled to stop heating.

[0136] In some embodiments of the present invention, if there is a cyclic preheating record within a preset period before the preheating function start signal is received, and the current water point is downstream of the target water point, indicating that there is hot water in the hot water pipe between the gas water heater and the target water point, but there is unheated water in the hot water pipe between the current water point and the target water point, then the above-mentioned step S31 includes the following sub-steps:

[0137] S3131. Obtain the amount of water in the pipe between the target water-using point and the current water-using point.

[0138] For example, when the gas water heater is first operated after installation, the preset circulating water volume in the pipes between each water point and the gas water heater is learned and stored in memory. During actual use, the first preset circulating water volume in the hot water pipe between the gas water heater and the current water point, and the second preset circulating water volume in the hot water pipe between the gas water heater and the target water point, are retrieved from memory. The second preset circulating water volume is then subtracted from the first preset circulating water volume to obtain the water volume in the pipe between the target water point and the current water point.

[0139] S3132. When the circulating preheating circuit is connected, the water flow rate of the water inlet pipe is obtained and timing is started.

[0140] When the circulating preheating loop is connected, the water flow rate of the water inlet pipe is obtained and the timing is started. For example, the water flow rate of the water inlet pipe can be obtained by a flow sensor built into the water inlet pipe.

[0141] S3133. Calculate the real-time circulating water volume based on the water flow rate and the circulating preheating time.

[0142] Exemplarily, the product of the water flow rate and the circulation preheating time is calculated to obtain the real-time circulation water volume.

[0143] S3134. Determine whether the real-time circulating water volume reaches the water volume in the pipe.

[0144] If not, it means that there is still cold water in the hot water pipe between the target water point and the current water point, and the hot water has not yet reached the current water point, then return to execute S3133: calculate the real-time circulating water volume based on the water flow and circulation preheating time; if yes, it means that the hot water has reached the current water point, then execute S3135.

[0145] S3135, controls the gas water heater to stop heating.

[0146] If the real-time circulating water volume reaches the water volume in the pipe between the target water use point and the current water use point, the circulating preheating loop is closed, the circulating water pump is controlled to stop rotating, and the gas water heater is controlled to stop heating.

[0147] In this embodiment, there is a cycle preheating record within a preset period of time before the preheating function start signal is received, and the current water use point is downstream of the target water use point, indicating that there is already hot water in the hot water pipe between the gas water heater and the target water use point, but there is unheated water in the hot water pipe between the current water use point and the target water use point. The gas water heater only needs to heat an amount of water equal to this part, which reduces the cycle preheating time, reduces the noise impact time, and reduces energy consumption.

[0148] In some embodiments of the present invention, if there is a cyclic preheating record within a preset period before the preheating function start signal is received, and the current water point is downstream of the target water point, indicating that there is hot water in the hot water pipe between the gas water heater and the target water point, but there is unheated water in the hot water pipe between the current water point and the target water point, then the above-mentioned step S31 includes the following sub-steps:

[0149] S3141. Obtain the preset circulation time required for the water volume in the pipe between the target water use point and the current water use point under the circulation preheating condition.

[0150] For example, when the gas water heater is first operated after installation, a preset cycle time is learned for the water temperature at each water point to reach the set temperature from the connected circulating preheating circuit to each water point. This cycle time is stored in memory. During actual use, the first preset cycle time required for the water temperature at the current water point to reach the set preheating temperature from the connected circulating preheating circuit to each water point, and the second preset cycle time required for the water temperature at the target water point to reach the set preheating temperature from the connected circulating preheating circuit to each water point, are retrieved from memory. The second preset cycle time is subtracted from the first preset cycle time to obtain the preset cycle time required for the water volume in the pipe between the target water point and the current water point.

[0151] S3142. Start timing when the circulating preheating circuit is connected.

[0152] S3143: Determine whether the cycle duration reaches the preset cycle duration.

[0153] Determine whether the cycle time reaches the preset cycle time. If it does not reach the preset cycle time, it means that there is still cold water in the hot water pipe between the target water point and the current water point, and the hot water has not yet reached the current water point, then return to execute S3143: determine whether the cycle time reaches the preset cycle time; if it reaches the preset cycle time, it means that the hot water has reached the current water point, then execute S3144.

[0154] S3144, control the gas water heater to stop heating.

[0155] If the cycle time reaches the preset cycle time, the circulation preheating loop will be closed, the circulation water pump will be controlled to stop rotating, and the gas water heater will be controlled to stop heating.

[0156] In this embodiment, there is a cycle preheating record within a preset period of time before the preheating function start signal is received, and the current water use point is downstream of the target water use point, indicating that there is already hot water in the hot water pipe between the gas water heater and the target water use point, but there is unheated water in the hot water pipe between the current water use point and the target water use point. The gas water heater only needs to heat an amount of water equal to this part, which reduces the cycle preheating time, reduces the noise impact time, and reduces energy consumption.

[0157] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a hot water preheating system provided by the present invention is shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown, the hot water preheating system includes:

[0158] The gas water heater 110 includes a circulating water pump; the gas water heater 110 is used to execute the hot water preheating control method provided in any of the aforementioned embodiments of the present invention.

[0159] The cold water pipe 120 is connected to the water inlet of the gas water heater 110 .

[0160] The hot water pipe 130 is connected to the water outlet of the gas water heater 110. The cold water pipe 120, which is the farthest end from the gas water heater 110, is connected to the hot water pipe 130, which is the farthest end from the gas water heater 110, through a one-way valve 140. The one-way valve 140 can be controlled to connect the cold water pipe 120 and the hot water pipe 130 to form a circulating preheating loop.

[0161] There are at least two water points 150 , where the cold water inlet of the water point 150 is connected to the cold water pipe 120 , and the hot water inlet of the water point 150 is connected to the hot water pipe 130 .

[0162] At least two preheating function triggers 160 are provided. The preheating function triggers 160 are associated with the water use point 150 and are used to send a preheating function start signal.

[0163] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of another hot water preheating system provided by the present invention is shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, the hot water preheating system includes:

[0164] The gas water heater 210 includes a circulating water pump; the gas water heater 210 is used to execute the hot water preheating control method provided in any of the aforementioned embodiments of the present invention.

[0165] The cold water pipe 220 is connected to the water inlet end of the gas water heater 210 .

[0166] The hot water pipe 230 is connected to the water outlet of the gas water heater 210 .

[0167] Return pipe 270, the first end of return pipe 270 is connected to the return end of gas water heater 210, the second end of return pipe 270 is connected to the farthest end of hot water pipe 230 from gas water heater 210 through one-way valve 240, and the one-way valve 240 can be controlled to connect return pipe 270 and hot water pipe 230 to form a circulating preheating loop.

[0168] There are at least two water points 250 , the cold water inlet end of the water point 250 is connected to the cold water pipe 220 , and the hot water inlet end of the water point 250 is connected to the hot water pipe 230 .

[0169] At least two preheating function triggers 260 are provided. The preheating function triggers 260 are associated with the water use point 250 and are used to send a preheating function start signal.

[0170] Figure 6 This is a structural diagram of a hot water preheating control device provided by the present invention, which is applied to a hot water preheating system. The hot water preheating system includes a gas-fired hot water device and a water point. A circulating preheating loop is formed between the gas-fired hot water device and the water point. Figure 6As shown, the hot water preheating control device includes:

[0171] a communication control module 301 for connecting the circulating preheating circuit in response to a preheating function start signal;

[0172] The first determination module 302 is used to obtain the current time and determine whether the current time is within the rest time period set by the user;

[0173] The speed control module 303 is used to control the speed of the circulating water pump to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating, if the current time is in the rest time period set by the user, and use the speed of the circulating water pump when the gas water heater starts heating as the target speed, and control the circulating water pump to operate at the target speed.

[0174] In some embodiments of the present invention, the hot water preheating control device includes:

[0175] a communication control module, configured to connect the circulating preheating circuit in response to a preheating function start signal;

[0176] The first judgment module is used to obtain the current time and determine whether the current time is within the rest time period set by the user;

[0177] The second judgment module is used to judge whether the preheating function start signal is triggered for the first time within the rest time period set by the user if the current time is within the rest time period set by the user;

[0178] a first speed control module, configured to, if the preheating function start signal is triggered for the first time within a rest period set by the user, control the speed of the circulating water pump to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating, save the speed of the circulating water pump when the gas water heater starts heating as a target speed, and control the circulating water pump to operate at the target speed;

[0179] The second speed control module is used to obtain the target speed and control the circulating water pump to operate at the target speed if the preheating function start signal is not triggered for the first time within the rest time period set by the user; wherein the target speed is 105%-110% of the target speed of the circulating water pump corresponding to the first time the preheating function start signal is triggered by the gas water heater within the rest time period set by the user.

[0180] In some embodiments of the present invention, the hot water preheating control device further includes:

[0181] a first heating control module, configured to control the gas water heater to operate at a first heating power, wherein the first heating power is greater than a second heating power corresponding to a target temperature set at the current water point;

[0182] a second heating control module, configured to control the gas water heater to operate at a second heating power after the gas water heater operates at the first heating power for a preset period of time;

[0183] The circulation preheating end module is used to control the gas water heater to stop heating when the water temperature at the current water point reaches the set preheating temperature, thereby ending the circulation preheating.

[0184] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first heating power is determined by the inlet water temperature, the inlet water flow rate and the target preheating temperature of the gas water heater; wherein the target preheating temperature is the sum of the set preheating temperature and the compensation value, and the compensation value is L, 0°C <L≤5℃。

[0185] In some embodiments of the present invention, the connectivity control module 301 includes:

[0186] a first determining unit, configured to determine whether there is a cyclic preheating record within a preset period of time before receiving the preheating function start signal;

[0187] The first connecting unit is used to connect the cyclic preheating loop when there is no cyclic preheating record;

[0188] A target water use point determination unit, configured to determine, when there is a cycle preheating record, a target water use point at which a preheating function start signal is issued in the cycle preheating record;

[0189] A second judging unit is configured to judge whether the current water use point is downstream of the target water use point;

[0190] The second connecting unit is used to connect the circulating preheating circuit when the current water use point is downstream of the target water use point; and to disconnect the circulating preheating circuit when the current water use point is not downstream of the target water use point.

[0191] In some embodiments of the present invention, if there is no cyclic preheating record, the cyclic preheating end module includes:

[0192] A first circulating water volume acquisition unit is used to acquire a preset circulating water volume required for the water temperature from the connected circulating preheating loop to the current water use point to reach a set preheating temperature;

[0193] A first water flow acquisition unit is used to acquire the water flow of the water inlet pipe when the circulating preheating loop is connected and start timing;

[0194] a first real-time circulating water volume calculation unit, configured to calculate the real-time circulating water volume based on the water flow rate and the circulating preheating time;

[0195] The third judgment unit is used to judge whether the real-time circulating water volume reaches the preset circulating water volume;

[0196] a first return execution unit, configured to return to the step of calculating the real-time circulating water volume based on the water flow rate and the circulation preheating time when the real-time circulating water volume does not reach the preset circulating water volume;

[0197] The first ending unit is used to control the gas water heater to stop heating when the real-time circulating water volume reaches the preset circulating water volume;

[0198] Alternatively, the cycle preheating end module includes:

[0199] A first cycle time acquisition unit is used to acquire a preset cycle time required from the connected circulating preheating loop to the water temperature of the current water use point reaching a set preheating temperature;

[0200] The first timing unit is used to start timing when the circulating preheating circuit is connected;

[0201] The fourth judging unit is used to judge whether the cycle duration reaches a preset cycle duration;

[0202] The second return execution unit is used to return to the step of determining whether the cycle time reaches the preset cycle time when the cycle time does not reach the preset cycle time;

[0203] The second ending unit is used to control the gas water heater to stop heating when the cycle time reaches a preset cycle time.

[0204] In some embodiments of the present invention, if the current water consumption point is downstream of the target water consumption point, the cycle preheating end module includes:

[0205] an in-pipe water volume acquisition unit, configured to acquire the in-pipe water volume between the target water use point and the current water use point;

[0206] A second water flow acquisition unit is used to acquire the water flow of the water inlet pipe when the circulating preheating loop is connected and start timing;

[0207] a second real-time circulating water volume calculation unit, configured to calculate the real-time circulating water volume based on the water flow rate and the circulating preheating time;

[0208] a fifth judging unit, configured to judge whether the real-time circulating water volume reaches the water volume in the pipe;

[0209] a third returning execution unit, configured to return to the step of calculating the real-time circulating water volume based on the water flow rate and the circulation preheating time when the real-time circulating water volume does not reach the water volume in the pipe;

[0210] The third ending unit is used to control the gas water heater to stop heating when the real-time circulating water volume reaches the water volume in the pipe.

[0211] In some embodiments of the present invention, if the current water consumption point is downstream of the target water consumption point, the cycle preheating end module includes:

[0212] A second cycle duration acquisition unit is used to acquire a preset cycle duration required for circulating the water volume in the pipe between the target water point and the current water point under a cycle preheating condition;

[0213] The second calculation unit is used to start timing when the circulating preheating circuit is connected;

[0214] A sixth judging unit, configured to judge whether the cycle duration reaches a preset cycle duration;

[0215] a fourth return execution unit, configured to return to the step of determining whether the cycle time has reached the preset cycle time when the cycle time has not reached the preset cycle time;

[0216] The fourth ending unit is used to control the gas water heater to stop heating when the cycle time reaches a preset cycle time.

[0217] In some embodiments of the present invention, the hot water preheating control device further includes:

[0218] The recording module is used to record the cycle preheating at the end of each cycle preheating and generate a cycle preheating record, wherein the cycle preheating record includes the water use point that sends the preheating function start signal.

[0219] In some embodiments of the present invention, the hot water preheating control device further includes:

[0220] The learning module is used to learn the preset circulating water volume in the pipeline between each water point and the gas water heater when the gas water heater is operated for the first time, or the preset circulation time from the connected circulation preheating loop to the water outlet temperature of each water point reaching the set temperature.

[0221] The above-mentioned hot water preheating control device can execute the hot water preheating control method provided by the above-mentioned embodiment of the present invention, and has the corresponding functional modules and beneficial effects of executing the hot water preheating control method.

[0222] Figure 7The present invention provides a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device, which is intended to represent various forms of digital computers, such as laptop computers, desktop computers, workstations, personal digital assistants, servers, blade servers, mainframe computers, and other suitable computers. The electronic device can also represent various forms of mobile devices, such as personal digital processing, cellular phones, smart phones, wearable devices (such as helmets, glasses, watches, etc.) and other similar computing devices. The components shown herein, their connections and relationships, and their functions are only examples and are not intended to limit the implementation of the present invention described and / or required herein.

[0223] like Figure 7 As shown, the electronic device includes at least one processor 11 and a memory, such as a read-only memory (ROM) 12, a random access memory (RAM) 13, etc., which is communicatively connected to the at least one processor 11. The memory stores a computer program that can be executed by the at least one processor, and the processor 11 can perform various appropriate actions and processes according to the computer program stored in the read-only memory (ROM) 12 or the computer program loaded from the storage unit 18 into the random access memory (RAM) 13. Various programs and data required for the operation of the electronic device can also be stored in the RAM 13. The processor 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 are connected to each other via a bus 14. An input / output (I / O) interface 15 is also connected to the bus 14.

[0224] Multiple components in the electronic device are connected to the I / O interface 15, including an input unit 16, such as a keyboard, mouse, etc.; an output unit 17, such as various types of displays, speakers, etc.; a storage unit 18, such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, etc.; and a communication unit 19, such as a network card, modem, wireless communication transceiver, etc. The communication unit 19 allows the electronic device to exchange information / data with other devices via a computer network such as the Internet and / or various telecommunication networks.

[0225] The processor 11 can be any general-purpose and / or specialized processing component with processing and computing capabilities. Some examples of the processor 11 include, but are not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), various specialized artificial intelligence (AI) computing chips, various processors running machine learning model algorithms, a digital signal processor (DSP), and any suitable processor, controller, microcontroller, etc. The processor 11 executes the various methods and processes described above, such as the hot water preheating control method.

[0226] In some embodiments, the hot water preheating control method can be implemented as a computer program tangibly embodied in a computer-readable storage medium, such as storage unit 18. In some embodiments, part or all of the computer program can be loaded and / or installed on the electronic device via ROM 12 and / or communication unit 19. When the computer program is loaded into RAM 13 and executed by processor 11, one or more steps of the hot water preheating control method described above can be performed. Alternatively, in other embodiments, processor 11 can be configured to execute the hot water preheating control method in any other suitable manner (e.g., via firmware).

[0227] Various embodiments of the systems and techniques described herein can be implemented in digital electronic circuit systems, integrated circuit systems, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), application specific standard products (ASSPs), system-on-chip systems (SOCs), programmable logic devices (CPLDs), computer hardware, firmware, software, and / or combinations thereof. These various embodiments can include being implemented in one or more computer programs that are executable and / or interpreted on a programmable system that includes at least one programmable processor, which can be a special purpose or general purpose programmable processor that can receive data and instructions from a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device, and transmit data and instructions to the storage system, the at least one input device, and the at least one output device.

[0228] Computer programs for implementing the methods of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. These computer programs may be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device, such that when the computer program is executed by the processor, the functions / operations specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams are implemented. The computer program may be executed entirely on the machine, partially on the machine, as a stand-alone software package, partially on the machine and partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0229] In the context of the present invention, computer-readable storage media can be tangible media that can contain or store a computer program for use with an instruction execution system, device or equipment or used in combination with an instruction execution system, device or equipment. Computer-readable storage media can include but are not limited to electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared or semiconductor systems, devices or equipment, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. Alternatively, computer-readable storage media can be machine-readable signal media. More specific examples of machine-readable storage media can include electrical connections based on one or more lines, portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memories (RAM), read-only memories (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memories (EPROM or flash memory), optical fibers, portable compact disk read-only memories (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0230] To provide interaction with a user, the systems and techniques described herein can be implemented on an electronic device having: a display device (e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor) for displaying information to the user; and a keyboard and pointing device (e.g., a mouse or trackball) through which the user can provide input to the electronic device. Other types of devices can also be used to provide interaction with the user; for example, the feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback); and input from the user can be received in any form (including acoustic input, voice input, or tactile input).

[0231] The systems and techniques described herein can be implemented in a computing system that includes back-end components (e.g., as a data server), or a computing system that includes middleware components (e.g., an application server), or a computing system that includes front-end components (e.g., a user computer with a graphical user interface or web browser through which a user can interact with implementations of the systems and techniques described herein), or a computing system that includes any combination of such back-end components, middleware components, or front-end components. The components of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication (e.g., a communication network). Examples of communication networks include: a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a blockchain network, and the Internet.

[0232] A computing system may include clients and servers. The clients and servers are typically remote from each other and typically interact via a communication network. This client-server relationship arises through computer programs running on the respective computers, creating a client-server relationship. The server may be a cloud server, also known as a cloud computing server or cloud host. This server is a hosting product within the cloud computing service ecosystem that addresses the management difficulties and limited scalability of traditional physical hosting and VPS services.

[0233] An embodiment of the present invention further provides a computer program product, including a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the hot water preheating control method provided in any embodiment of the present application.

[0234] The computer program product may be implemented by writing computer program code for performing the operations of the present invention in one or more programming languages, or a combination thereof, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Java, Smalltalk, C++, and conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as "C" or similar programming languages. The program code may be executed entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In cases involving a remote computer, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer via any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or may be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider).

[0235] It should be understood that the various forms of the processes shown above can be used to reorder, add, or delete steps. For example, the steps described in the present invention can be performed in parallel, sequentially, or in a different order, as long as the desired results of the technical solution of the present invention can be achieved. This is not limited herein.

[0236] The above specific embodiments do not limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions may be made based on design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A hot water preheating control method, applied to a hot water preheating system, wherein the hot water preheating system comprises a gas-fired hot water device and a water point, wherein a circulating preheating loop is formed between the gas-fired hot water device and the water point, and wherein a circulating water pump is provided on the circulating preheating loop; Methods include: In response to a preheating function start signal, connecting the circulating preheating circuit; Get the current time and determine whether the current time is within the rest time period set by the user; If the current time is in the rest time period set by the user, the speed of the circulating water pump is controlled to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating, and the speed of the circulating water pump when the gas water heater starts heating is used as the target speed, and the circulating water pump is controlled to operate at the target speed.

2. A hot water preheating control method, applied to a hot water preheating system, wherein the hot water preheating system includes a gas-fired hot water device and a water point, wherein a circulating preheating loop is formed between the gas-fired hot water device and the water point, and a circulating water pump is provided on the circulating preheating loop; characterized in that: Methods include: In response to a preheating function start signal, connecting the circulating preheating circuit; Get the current time and determine whether the current time is within the rest time period set by the user; If the current time is within the rest period set by the user, then determine whether the preheating function start signal is triggered for the first time within the rest period set by the user; If so, controlling the speed of the circulating water pump to gradually increase from zero until the gas water heater starts heating, taking the speed of the circulating water pump when the gas water heater starts heating as the target speed and saving it, and controlling the circulating water pump to operate at the target speed; If not, obtain the target speed and control the circulating water pump to operate at the target speed; wherein, the target speed is 105%-110% of the target speed of the circulating water pump corresponding to the preheating function start signal triggered for the first time by the gas water heater during the rest time period set by the user.

3. The hot water preheating control method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: After controlling the circulating water pump to operate at the target speed, the method further includes: Controlling the gas water heater to operate at a first heating power, wherein the first heating power is greater than a second heating power; the second heating power is determined by an inlet water temperature, an inlet water flow rate, and a set preheating temperature of the gas water heater; After the gas water heater operates at the first heating power for a preset period of time, the gas water heater is controlled to operate at the second heating power.

4. The hot water preheating control method according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first heating power is determined by the water inlet temperature, water inlet flow and target preheating temperature of the gas water heater; wherein the target preheating temperature is the sum of the set preheating temperature and the compensation value, and the compensation value is L, 0℃ <L≤5℃。 5. The hot water preheating control method according to claim 4, characterized in that: In response to a preheating function start signal, the circulating preheating circuit is connected, comprising: Determining whether there is a cyclic preheating record within a preset period before receiving the preheating function start signal; If there is no circulation preheating record, connect the circulation preheating circuit; If there is a cycle preheating record, determining the target water usage point that sends the preheating function start signal in the cycle preheating record; Determine whether the current water use point is downstream of the target water use point; If the current water point is downstream of the target water point, the circulating preheating circuit is connected; If the current water use point is not downstream of the target water use point, the circulating preheating loop is not connected.

6. The hot water preheating control method according to claim 5, characterized in that: If the current water consumption point is downstream of the target water consumption point, the method further includes: Obtaining the amount of water in the pipe between the target water point and the current water point; When the circulating preheating loop is connected, the water flow rate of the water inlet pipe is obtained and the timing is started; Calculating the real-time circulating water volume based on the water flow rate and the circulating preheating time; Determine whether the real-time circulating water volume reaches the water volume in the pipe; If not, return to the step of calculating the real-time circulating water volume based on the water flow rate and the circulating preheating time; If so, the gas water heater is controlled to stop heating.

7. The hot water preheating control method according to claim 5, characterized in that: If the current water consumption point is downstream of the target water consumption point, the method further includes: Obtaining a preset cycle time required for circulating the water volume in the pipe between the target water point and the current water point under a cycle preheating condition; The timing starts when the circulating preheating circuit is connected; Determine whether the loop duration reaches the preset loop duration; If not, return to the step of determining whether the cycle duration reaches the preset cycle duration; If so, the gas water heater is controlled to stop heating.

8. The hot water preheating control method according to claim 5, characterized in that: At the end of each warm-up cycle, also includes: The cycle preheating is recorded to generate a cycle preheating record, wherein the cycle preheating record includes a water usage point that sends a preheating function start signal.

9. The hot water preheating control method according to claim 5, characterized in that: Also includes: When the gas water heater triggers the preheating function start signal for the first time, it learns the preset circulating water volume in the pipeline between each water use point and the gas water heater, or the preset circulation time required to circulate the water volume in the pipeline between each water use point and the gas water heater.

10. A hot water preheating system, characterized in that: include: A gas water heater, comprising a circulating water pump; the gas water heater is configured to execute the hot water preheating control method according to any one of claims 1 to 9; A cold water pipe connected to the water inlet of the gas water heater; A hot water pipe connected to the water outlet of the gas water heater; The cold water pipe is connected to the hot water pipe at the farthest end from the gas water heater through a one-way valve; or, a return pipe, wherein the first end of the return pipe is connected to the return end of the gas water heater, and the second end of the return pipe is connected to the hot water pipe at the farthest end from the gas water heater through a one-way valve; At least two water points, wherein the cold water inlet of each water point is connected to the cold water pipe, and the hot water inlet of each water point is connected to the hot water pipe; At least two preheating function triggers, wherein the preheating function triggers are associated with the water use points and are used to send preheating function start signals.

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