Cruise control method and device of zero-cold-water water heater and gas water heating equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to a cruise control method and device of a zero cold water heater, gas water heating equipment and a computer readable storage medium. The method comprises the steps that in response to a preheating cruise instruction, the historical cruise heating duration of the zero-cold-water water heater is obtained; determining a compensation reference temperature according to the historical cruise heating duration; a preset outlet water temperature is obtained, and a heater of the zero cold water heater is controlled to start and operate based on the preset outlet water temperature; and the heating state of the heater is regulated and controlled according to the preset water outlet temperature and the compensation reference temperature. By the adoption of the method, the compensation reference temperature of dynamic compensation can be determined by introducing the historical cruise heating duration, the heating state of the water heater is regulated and controlled based on the compensation reference temperature, the heating state of the heater can be precisely regulated and controlled, the outlet water temperature is closer to the expectation of a user, and therefore the use reliability of the zero-cold-water water heater is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of water heater technology, and in particular to a cruise control method, device, gas water heating equipment, and computer-readable storage medium for a zero-cold-water water heater. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of science and technology and the improvement of people's living standards, water heaters, due to their small size and rapid heating, have gradually become an indispensable appliance in thousands of households. Most water heaters are installed on balconies, in kitchens, and other locations, which are some distance from where users need to use water. Users often need to let cold water run for a while before getting hot water, which not only wastes water resources but also reduces convenience. To improve the user experience, zero-cold-water water heaters, with their zero-cold-water circulation function, are gradually gaining popularity.

[0003] Zero-cold-water water heaters rely on their unique circulation pipes to preheat the cold water in the pipes, effectively improving the cold water section and achieving instant hot water. However, when the ambient temperature is low (such as in winter), the water temperature at the end of the pipes drops significantly due to the rapid heat dissipation, easily leading to the outlet water temperature failing to meet the user's expectations, resulting in low reliability of the water heater. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a cruise control method, device, gas water heating equipment, and computer-readable storage medium for zero-cold-water water heaters that can improve the reliability of use, in response to the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a cruise control method for a zero-cold-water water heater, including:

[0006] In response to the preheating cruise command, the historical cruise heating duration of the zero-cold-water water heater is obtained;

[0007] The compensation reference temperature is determined based on the historical cruise heating duration.

[0008] Obtain the preset outlet water temperature, and control the heater of the zero-cold-water water heater to start operation based on the preset outlet water temperature;

[0009] The heating state of the heater is adjusted according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature.

[0010] In one embodiment, the heater operation process includes multiple consecutive temperature adjustment periods; the step of adjusting the heating state of the heater according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature includes:

[0011] The target outlet water temperature is determined based on the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature for each of the temperature adjustment periods.

[0012] When the operating time of the heater is within the corresponding temperature adjustment period, the heating state of the heater is adjusted according to the target outlet water temperature matched by the temperature adjustment period.

[0013] In one embodiment, determining the target outlet temperature for each of the temperature adjustment periods based on the preset outlet temperature and the compensation reference temperature includes:

[0014] Based on the timing of each temperature adjustment period and the compensation reference temperature, determine the temperature compensation value matched for each temperature adjustment period.

[0015] Based on the preset outlet water temperature and the temperature compensation value matched for each of the temperature adjustment periods, the target outlet water temperature matched for each of the temperature adjustment periods is determined.

[0016] In one embodiment, determining the compensation reference temperature based on the historical cruise heating duration includes:

[0017] The compensation reference temperature is determined based on the ratio between the historical cruise heating duration and the preset maximum cruise heating duration.

[0018] In one embodiment, after adjusting the heating state of the heater according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature, the method further includes:

[0019] Obtain the cruise status parameters of the zero-cold-water water heater;

[0020] If the cruise status parameters meet the preset cruise end conditions, the heater is controlled to stop operating.

[0021] In one embodiment, the cruise status parameters include a return water temperature parameter, and the method further includes:

[0022] If the return water temperature parameter is greater than the preset upper temperature limit, the cruise status parameter is determined to meet the preset cruise termination condition.

[0023] In one embodiment, the cruise status parameter includes the operating time of the heater, and the method further includes:

[0024] If the operating time of the heater reaches the preset maximum cruise heating time, the cruise status parameters are determined to meet the preset cruise end conditions.

[0025] In one embodiment, the method further includes at least one of the following:

[0026] First item: During the zero-cold-water cruise process of the zero-cold-water water heater, when the zero-cold-water cruise heating time reaches the preset maximum cruise heating time, the preheating cruise command is generated.

[0027] The second step: Obtain the ambient temperature; if the ambient temperature is lower than a preset temperature threshold, generate the preheating cruise command.

[0028] In one embodiment, the method further includes: determining the preset outlet water temperature based on the compensation reference temperature.

[0029] Secondly, this application also provides a cruise control device for a zero-cold-water water heater, comprising:

[0030] The duration acquisition module is used to acquire the historical cruise heating duration of the zero-cold-water water heater in response to the preheating cruise command;

[0031] The compensation analysis module is used to determine the compensation reference temperature based on the historical cruise heating duration.

[0032] The start control module is used to obtain the preset outlet water temperature and control the heater of the zero cold water water heater to start operation based on the preset outlet water temperature;

[0033] The preheating control module is used to adjust the heating state of the heater according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature.

[0034] Thirdly, this application also provides a gas-fired water heating device, including a connected zero-cold-water water heater and a controller, the controller being used to perform the steps of the cruise control method for the zero-cold-water water heater as described above.

[0035] Fourthly, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0036] In response to the preheating cruise command, the historical cruise heating duration of the zero-cold-water water heater is obtained;

[0037] The compensation reference temperature is determined based on the historical cruise heating duration.

[0038] Obtain the preset outlet water temperature, and control the heater of the zero-cold-water water heater to start operation based on the preset outlet water temperature;

[0039] The heating state of the heater is adjusted according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature.

[0040] The aforementioned cruise control method, device, gas water heating equipment, and computer-readable storage medium for zero-cold-water water heaters, in response to a preheating cruise command, acquire the historical cruise heating duration of the zero-cold-water water heater; determine a compensation reference temperature based on the historical cruise heating duration; acquire a preset outlet water temperature; and control the heater of the zero-cold-water water heater to start operation based on the preset outlet water temperature; and adjust the heating state of the heater according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature. Therefore, by introducing the historical cruise heating duration to determine the compensation reference temperature for dynamic compensation, and adjusting the heating state of the water heater based on this compensation reference temperature, the heating state of the heater can be precisely controlled, making the outlet water temperature closer to the user's expectations, thereby improving the reliability of the zero-cold-water water heater. Attached Figure Description

[0041] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or related technologies, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments of this application or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a gas-fired water heater module in one embodiment;

[0043] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the cruise control method for a zero-cold-water water heater in one embodiment;

[0044] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a process for adjusting the heating state of the heater according to a preset outlet water temperature and a compensation reference temperature in one embodiment.

[0045] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a process for obtaining the historical cruise heating duration of a zero-cold-water water heater in response to a preheating cruise command in one embodiment.

[0046] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the cruise control method for a zero-cold-water water heater in another embodiment;

[0047] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the cruise control method for a zero-cold-water water heater in yet another embodiment;

[0048] Figure 7 This is a structural block diagram of the cruise control device for a zero-cold-water water heater in one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0049] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0050] The cruise control method for zero-cold-water water heaters provided in this application can be applied to gas-fired water heating equipment. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the gas-fired water heating equipment includes a connected zero-cold-water water heater 102 and a controller 104. The controller 104 is used to respond to a preheating cruise command by acquiring the historical cruise heating duration of the zero-cold-water water heater; determining a compensation reference temperature based on the historical cruise heating duration; acquiring a preset outlet water temperature; and controlling the heater of the zero-cold-water water heater to start operation based on the preset outlet water temperature; and adjusting the heating state of the heater according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature.

[0051] The specific structure of the zero-cold-water water heater 102 is not limited, and those skilled in the art can refer to commonly used techniques in the field for its design. As an example, the zero-cold-water water heater 102 is a gas water heater, and the heater of the zero-cold-water water heater 102 is the burner. Regulating the heating state of the heater refers to adjusting the heat released by the gas water heater from burning gas per unit time. By adjusting the gas supply of the burner, the heat load can be adjusted, that is, the heating state can be controlled.

[0052] It is understandable that this zero-cold-water water heater's cruise control method can also be applied to servers, and to systems that include both gas-fired water heaters and servers, and can be implemented through the interaction between the gas-fired water heater and the server. Specifically, this zero-cold-water water heater's cruise control method can be implemented through the controller of the gas-fired water heater, or through other external control devices.

[0053] In one exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, a cruise control method for a zero-cold-water water heater is provided, which is applied to... Figure 1 The following steps, 202 to 208, are used as an example of the controller in the example.

[0054] Step 202: In response to the preheating cruise command, obtain the historical cruise heating duration of the zero-cold-water water heater.

[0055] The preheating cruise command is a command used to instruct the activation of the preheating cruise mode. When the controller receives the preheating cruise command, it will execute steps 202 to 208 of this application embodiment to realize preheating cruise.

[0056] It is understandable that the controller will record the running time of the heater in real time while the heater is starting up and running, until the cruise is completed and the heater stops running. The length of this time is the cruise heating time.

[0057] The historical cruise heating duration can be set according to specific circumstances. For example, the historical cruise heating duration can be the cruise heating duration of the previous preheating cruise at the current moment; or it can be the duration calculated based on the cruise heating duration of the previous preset number of preheating cruises at the current moment, such as taking the average of the cruise heating duration of the previous preset number of cruises, or the duration calculated based on the cruise heating duration of the previous preset number of cruises and the corresponding weight.

[0058] In some embodiments, the zero-cold-water water heater may also have a zero-cold-water cruise mode. In zero-cold-water cruise mode, the heater of the zero-cold-water water heater will start and run to maintain a constant temperature, thereby achieving the zero-cold-water cruise effect. During the zero-cold-water cruise process, the controller will also record the running time of the heater in real time while the heater is running, until the cruise is completed and the heater stops running. This period of time is also called the cruise heating duration.

[0059] In this embodiment, the controller responds to the preheating cruise command and obtains the historical cruise heating duration, which can be either the cruise heating duration of the previous cruise (which may be a preheating cruise or a zero-cold-water cruise) at the current moment, or the duration calculated based on the cruise heating duration of a preset number of cruises before the current moment.

[0060] Step 204: Determine the compensation reference temperature based on the historical cruise heating duration.

[0061] During the operation of a zero-cold-water water heater, the hot water loses heat to the surrounding environment as it circulates in the pipes, causing the water temperature to drop. This compensation reference temperature is used to improve the impact of heat dissipation on the circulating heating effect.

[0062] The method for determining the compensation reference temperature is not unique. In some embodiments, step 204 may include the following steps:

[0063] The compensation reference temperature is determined based on the ratio between the historical cruise heating duration and the preset maximum cruise heating duration.

[0064] Historical cruise heating time is the total time the water heater actually spent heating the water in the pipes to maintain the temperature during past cruise cycles. The preset maximum cruise heating time is the longest allowed cruise heating time for the water heater. When the historical cruise heating time is close to the preset maximum cruise heating time (i.e., the ratio is large), it indicates that significant heat loss occurred in the pipes during past cruise cycles, requiring the water heater to heat for a longer time to compensate for the heat loss. Conversely, a smaller ratio indicates less heat loss in the pipes, requiring a shorter heating time to maintain the water temperature.

[0065] The preset maximum cruise heating time can be determined based on factors such as the commonly used cruise pipeline length and the user-set temperature, and is typically no more than 10 minutes to avoid gas waste due to excessively long maximum cruise heating times. For example, taking a maximum cruise heating time A of 10 minutes as an example, assuming a historical cruise heating time B of 5 minutes, the compensation reference temperature Y is B / A, which is 0.5 degrees Celsius. Assuming a historical cruise heating time B of 10 minutes, the compensation reference temperature Y is 1 degree Celsius. Therefore, the larger the ratio between the historical cruise heating time and the preset maximum cruise heating time, the larger the compensation reference temperature, resulting in more compensation during temperature adjustment periods.

[0066] In some other embodiments, step 204 may include the following steps:

[0067] The compensation reference temperature is obtained by comparing the historical cruise heating duration with a preset fitting function. The preset fitting function can be pre-stored in the controller and can be obtained through experiments or other methods, thereby quickly obtaining the compensation reference temperature.

[0068] Step 206: Obtain the preset outlet water temperature and control the heater of the zero cold water water heater to start operation based on the preset outlet water temperature.

[0069] The preset outlet water temperature is the output water temperature set by the user, or the outlet water temperature that the controller adaptively adjusts based on the user's usage habits.

[0070] When the heater of a zero-cold-water water heater starts up based on a preset outlet water temperature, the controller can control the gas supply to the heater according to the preset outlet water temperature. The method of controlling the gas supply to the heater is not limited; as an example, the controller can send a control signal to the gas proportional valve to adjust the valve's opening, thereby controlling the amount of gas entering the heater.

[0071] By controlling the heater's startup and operation based on the preset outlet water temperature, the heater's startup and operation status can be matched with the temperature that needs to be preheated. When adjusting the heater's heating status according to the compensation reference temperature, the heat dissipation can be better compensated.

[0072] It is understandable that while controlling the heater to start and run, the controller will also record the running time of the heater in order to record the cruise heating time.

[0073] Step 208: Adjust the heating state of the heater according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature.

[0074] For example, the controller can first determine the target outlet water temperature based on the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature, and then adjust the amount of gas entering the heater according to the target outlet water temperature, thereby adjusting the heating state of the heater. Since the target outlet water temperature is obtained based on the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature, when adjusting the heating state of the heater based on the target temperature, the heat load of the heater can effectively compensate for the heat dissipation of the pipeline while meeting the normal cruise heating requirements, so that the outlet water temperature is closer to the user's expectations.

[0075] The aforementioned cruise control method for zero-cold-water water heaters involves: acquiring the historical cruise heating time of the water heater; determining a compensation reference temperature based on the historical cruise heating time; acquiring a preset outlet water temperature and controlling the heater's operation based on the preset outlet water temperature; and adjusting the heater's heating state according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature. Therefore, by introducing historical cruise heating time to determine the dynamic compensation reference temperature and adjusting the water heater's heating state based on this compensation reference temperature, the heater's heating state can be precisely controlled, making the outlet water temperature closer to the user's expectations, thereby improving the reliability of the zero-cold-water water heater.

[0076] In some embodiments, the heater operation includes a series of consecutive temperature adjustment periods, which are continuous time intervals. The number of temperature adjustment periods can be determined based on the maximum cruise heating duration and the duration of each temperature adjustment period. The durations of each temperature adjustment period can be equal or unequal. For example, if the maximum cruise heating duration is 10 minutes and the duration of each temperature adjustment period is a unit duration (e.g., 1 minute), then the number of temperature adjustment periods is 10.

[0077] Furthermore, such as Figure 3 As shown, step 208 includes the following steps 302-304, wherein:

[0078] Step 302: Determine the target outlet water temperature for each temperature adjustment period based on the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature.

[0079] The controller needs to combine the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature to determine the target outlet water temperature for each temperature adjustment period. The target outlet water temperatures for each temperature adjustment period can be different, or the temperatures for some temperature adjustment periods can be the same, depending on the actual situation.

[0080] For example, in some scenarios, the return water temperature in the pipeline is low at the initial stage of heater operation, and the heater has just started working, requiring some time to reach a stable and efficient heating state. In this case, to avoid overheating and wasting energy while gradually increasing the water temperature, the initial target temperature can be relatively low. As time changes, the heater gradually stabilizes, heating efficiency improves, and the hot water in the pipeline continues to circulate, causing the overall temperature to rise. However, at the same time, due to continuous heat exchange between the pipeline and the external environment, heat loss also accumulates. To compensate for this heat loss and ensure that the water temperature continues to rise to the preset value, the target outlet water temperature can be gradually increased.

[0081] For example, in another scenario, when the heater is initially running, the return water temperature is extremely low. In order to quickly raise the overall temperature of the hot water in the pipeline, the target outlet water temperature matched during the temperature adjustment period can be relatively high. As the heater continues to run, the temperature of the hot water in the pipeline gradually increases, and the temperature difference with the external environment gradually decreases, so the target outlet water temperature can gradually decrease.

[0082] Step 304: When the heater is in the corresponding temperature adjustment period, adjust the heating state of the heater according to the target outlet water temperature matched by the temperature adjustment period.

[0083] Specifically, taking one minute as an example, the duration of each temperature adjustment period is defined as a unit of time. During the first minute of heater operation, the controller adjusts the heater's heating state to match the target outlet water temperature for that minute, generating the corresponding heat load. When the heater reaches the second minute of operation, the controller adjusts the heater's heating state to match the target outlet water temperature for that minute, generating the corresponding heat load, and so on, until the entire heating cycle is completed, at which point the heater stops operating. In other embodiments, the unit of time can also be other durations, such as 1.5 minutes, 2 minutes, etc.

[0084] When the duration of each temperature adjustment period is equal and is a unit of time, it can also be understood that the controller adjusts the heating state of the heater in a unit of time cycle.

[0085] It's understandable that the controller adjusts the heater's heating state once when the heater's operating time falls within the corresponding temperature adjustment period. However, this doesn't mean the controller will adjust it every single temperature adjustment period. For example, if the maximum cruise heating time is set to 10 minutes and each temperature adjustment period lasts 1 minute, then there are 10 temperature adjustment periods. However, if the heater actually only takes 8 minutes from startup to the end of the current cruise heating period, then the controller will only adjust the heater's heating state during the first 8 temperature adjustment periods.

[0086] In this embodiment, each temperature adjustment period is matched with a corresponding target outlet water temperature, and the heater's heating state is adjusted according to the target outlet water temperature. This allows for precise control of the heater's heating state during the preheating cruise process, ensuring that the outlet water temperature gradually approaches the user's expectation, resulting in stable water temperature changes and high reliability. Compared to directly increasing the target outlet water temperature based on a preset outlet water temperature and then controlling the heater to maintain a constant temperature based on a larger target outlet water temperature, this avoids the possibility of excessively high water temperatures that could occur when directly controlling the heater to heat with a larger target outlet water temperature, which could reduce user safety or lead to a poor user experience.

[0087] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, step 202 includes the following steps 402 and 404, wherein:

[0088] Step 402: Determine the temperature compensation value matching each temperature adjustment period based on the time sequence of each temperature adjustment period and the compensation reference temperature.

[0089] Specifically, the temperature compensation value for each temperature adjustment period can be determined based on the product of the time sequence of each temperature adjustment period and the compensation reference temperature. In some embodiments, the product obtained by multiplying the difference between the time sequence of each temperature adjustment period and 1 by the compensation reference temperature can be used as the temperature compensation value for each temperature adjustment period. Assuming the compensation reference temperature is Y and the time sequence of each temperature adjustment period is N, then the temperature compensation value for the Nth temperature adjustment period is Y*(N-1). Taking the duration of each temperature adjustment period as 1 minute as an example, in the first minute of heater operation (i.e., the first temperature adjustment period), the temperature compensation value is zero; in the second minute of heater operation (i.e., the second temperature adjustment period), the temperature compensation value is the compensation reference temperature Y; in the third minute of heater operation (i.e., the third temperature adjustment period), the temperature compensation value is the compensation reference temperature 2Y, and so on.

[0090] Step 404: Determine the target outlet water temperature for each temperature adjustment period based on the preset outlet water temperature and the temperature compensation value matched for each temperature adjustment period.

[0091] The target outlet water temperature for each temperature adjustment period can be equal to the sum of the preset outlet water temperature and the temperature compensation value matched for each temperature adjustment period. Taking the preset outlet water temperature as X as an example, the target outlet water temperature M for the Nth temperature adjustment period is M = X + Y * (N-1). In the first temperature adjustment period after the heater starts operating, the temperature compensation value is zero, and the target outlet water temperature is the preset outlet water temperature.

[0092] In this embodiment, during preheating cruise, as the heater operates, a temperature compensation value is provided for each temperature adjustment period to compensate for the drop in water temperature caused by heat loss, calculated based on the time sequence and the compensation reference temperature. Furthermore, the target outlet water temperature, determined based on the preset outlet water temperature and the temperature compensation value, fully considers the user's demand for outlet water temperature and the actual heat dissipation during heater operation. In the initial stage of heater startup, due to the low pipe temperature and relatively little heat loss from non-circulating water, the temperature compensation value is zero, and the target outlet water temperature is the preset outlet water temperature. This satisfies the user's basic needs while avoiding overheating and energy waste. As the operating time increases, the temperature compensation value gradually increases, and the target outlet water temperature also increases accordingly, ensuring a stable hot water output temperature throughout the entire cruise heating process, greatly improving the accuracy and stability of water temperature control.

[0093] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, after step 208, the cruise control method for the zero-cold-water water heater further includes steps 502 and 504.

[0094] Step 502: Obtain the cruise status parameters of the zero-cold-water water heater.

[0095] Step 504: If the cruise status parameters meet the preset cruise end conditions, control the heater to stop operating.

[0096] The cruise status parameters can be set according to actual needs, such as return water temperature parameters and heater operating time. For example, the inlet and outlet of the heat exchanger of the zero-cold-water water heater are connected by a water circuit, and the outlet branch supplying water to the user is between the inlet and outlet. The return water temperature can be the temperature detected at the inlet.

[0097] In this embodiment, when the cruise status parameters meet the preset cruise termination conditions, the heater is controlled to stop operating, ending the current preheating cruise. This avoids overheating that could lead to excessively high outlet water temperatures, affecting user experience, and also prevents energy waste caused by overheating.

[0098] It is understandable that while controlling the heater to stop running, the controller will also stop recording the heater's running time. The duration recorded for this cruise heating is the cruise heating duration.

[0099] In some embodiments, the cruise status parameters of the zero-cold-water water heater include the return water temperature parameter, and the cruise control method of the zero-cold-water water heater further includes the following steps:

[0100] If the return water temperature parameter is greater than the preset upper limit value, the cruise status parameter is determined to meet the preset cruise end condition.

[0101] The preset upper temperature limit can be obtained based on the preset outlet water temperature or preset by the user, and can be equal to the preset outlet water temperature. In this embodiment, when the return water temperature parameter is greater than the preset upper temperature limit, the cruise status parameter is determined to meet the preset cruise termination condition, thereby controlling the heater to stop operating. This avoids excessively high outlet water temperature from affecting user use and also avoids energy waste.

[0102] In some embodiments, the cruise control of a zero-cold-water water heater further includes the following steps:

[0103] The preset outlet water temperature is determined based on the compensation reference temperature.

[0104] The preset outlet water temperature is less than or equal to the upper limit of the outlet water temperature. The preset outlet water temperature is typically no more than 50 degrees Celsius to avoid scalding the user due to excessively high cruise temperature. In this embodiment, when the controller receives the user-set temperature, it also considers the influence of the compensation reference temperature and temperature compensation value on the target outlet water temperature. Therefore, the preset outlet water temperature can be equal to the upper limit of the outlet water temperature minus the compensation reference temperature or temperature compensation value, ensuring that the target outlet water temperature is not too high and preventing scalding of the user.

[0105] In some embodiments, the cruise status parameters of the zero-cold-water water heater include the operating time of the heater, and the cruise control method of the zero-cold-water water heater further includes the following steps:

[0106] If the heater's operating time reaches the preset maximum cruise heating time, the cruise status parameters are determined to meet the preset cruise termination conditions.

[0107] In this embodiment, when the heater's running time reaches the preset maximum cruise heating time, the cruise status parameters are determined to meet the preset cruise end conditions, thereby controlling the heater to stop running. This can prevent the outlet water temperature from being too high and affecting user use, and also avoid energy waste.

[0108] The preheating cruise command can be issued by the user or generated internally by the controller. In some embodiments, the cruise control method for the zero-cold-water water heater further includes at least one of the following:

[0109] The first item: During the zero-cold-water cruise process of the zero-cold-water water heater, when the zero-cold-water cruise heating time reaches the preset maximum cruise heating time, a preheating cruise command is generated.

[0110] The second item: Obtain the ambient temperature; if the ambient temperature is lower than the preset temperature threshold, generate a preheating cruise command.

[0111] It is understood that zero-cold-water water heaters have a zero-cold-water cruise function. The activation method of the zero-cold-water cruise function can be set with reference to commonly used technologies in this field. For example, a zero-cold-water cruise command can be generated and activated when a preset cruise interval is reached; or, a zero-cold-water cruise command can be generated and activated when the return water temperature is detected to be lower than a preset zero-cold-water threshold. After the zero-cold-water function is activated, the controller controls the heater to operate at a constant temperature at a preset zero-cold-water cruise temperature until the return water temperature reaches the preset upper limit value, or the heater operation time reaches the preset maximum cruise heating time. This increases the outlet water temperature and improves the user's water experience.

[0112] However, when the ambient temperature is low (such as in winter), the water temperature at the end of the pipe drops significantly due to the rapid heat dissipation of the pipe. This often results in the heater running for the maximum preset cruise heating time, but the return water temperature does not reach the preset upper limit, leading to a poor user experience.

[0113] In the application embodiment, there are two cruise modes: preheating cruise mode and zero cold water cruise mode. If the heating time during the zero cold water cruise process is too long, exceeding the maximum cruise heating time, a preheating cruise command is generated to start the preheating cruise, so as to increase the outlet water temperature and make the outlet water temperature meet the user's expectations.

[0114] In a further embodiment, when the zero-cold-water cruise heating time reaches the preset maximum cruise heating time, the controller generates a preheating cruise command when it receives the zero-cold-water cruise command again.

[0115] In other scenarios, when the ambient temperature is lower than a preset temperature threshold, a preheating cruise command is generated and initiated to increase the outlet water temperature to meet user expectations. The ambient temperature can be detected by a temperature sensor on the zero-cold-water water heater or the local temperature obtained by the controller via a network. The preset temperature threshold does not need to be specifically defined, such as 15 degrees Celsius or other temperature values.

[0116] In a further embodiment, when the acquired ambient temperature is lower than a preset temperature threshold, the controller generates a preheating cruise command when it receives the zero-cold-water cruise command again.

[0117] To better understand the above embodiments, the following detailed explanation is provided in conjunction with an optional embodiment. In one embodiment, as... Figure 6 As shown, the cruise control method for zero-cold-water water heaters includes the following steps:

[0118] Upon receiving a zero-cold-water cruise command, the system initiates the zero-cold-water cruise mode. It checks if this is the first time zero-cold-water cruise has been initiated; if so, it controls the heater to maintain a constant temperature based on the preset outlet water temperature X.

[0119] When the return water temperature is detected to be higher than the upper limit of the outlet water temperature, the heater is controlled to stop heating, and the heating duration B of the heater during this cruise is recorded.

[0120] If the return water temperature does not exceed the upper limit of the outlet water temperature, and the heater reaches the maximum cruise heating time A during this cruise process (B), then the heater will be controlled to stop heating, and the cruise heating time B will be recorded as equal to the maximum cruise heating time A.

[0121] If a zero-cold-water cruise command is received again, a preheating cruise command is generated. In response to the preheating cruise command, the cruise heating duration B is obtained, and the compensation reference temperature Y = B / A is determined based on the cruise heating duration B and the maximum cruise heating duration A. The preset outlet water temperature X is obtained, and the target heating temperature for each temperature adjustment period (e.g., each minute) is determined based on the preset outlet water temperature X and the compensation reference temperature Y. The target outlet water temperature M at minute N = X + Y * (N-1). During each minute of heater operation, the heater's operating status is controlled by the corresponding target outlet water temperature M.

[0122] When the return water temperature is detected to be greater than the upper limit of the outlet water temperature, or when the heater reaches the maximum cruise heating time A during the current cruise, the heater is controlled to stop heating and the preheating cruise ends.

[0123] The aforementioned cruise control method for zero-cold-water water heaters addresses the issue that, especially in winter, the rapid heat dissipation of the pipes can prevent the system from reaching the user's desired temperature or cause excessively long cruise times. By introducing cruise time assessment and intelligent temperature control, the time to reach cruise shutdown can be effectively shortened, while also improving the situation where the desired water temperature cannot be reached.

[0124] It should be understood that although the steps in the flowcharts of the embodiments described above are shown sequentially according to the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless explicitly stated herein, there is no strict order restriction on the execution of these steps, and they can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least some steps in the flowcharts of the embodiments described above may include multiple steps or multiple stages. These steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times. The execution order of these steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but can be performed alternately or in turn with other steps or at least some of the steps or stages of other steps.

[0125] Based on the same inventive concept, this application also provides a cruise control device for implementing the cruise control method for a zero-cold-water water heater as described above. The solution provided by this device is similar to the solution described in the above method; therefore, the specific limitations of one or more embodiments of the cruise control device for a zero-cold-water water heater provided below can be found in the limitations of the cruise control method for zero-cold-water water heaters described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0126] In one exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 7 As shown, a cruise control device for a zero-cold-water water heater is provided, comprising: a duration acquisition module 702, a compensation analysis module 704, a start-up control module 706, and a preheating regulation module 708, wherein:

[0127] The duration acquisition module 702 is used to acquire the historical cruise heating duration of the zero-cold-water water heater in response to the preheating cruise command.

[0128] The compensation analysis module 704 is used to determine the compensation reference temperature based on the historical cruise heating duration.

[0129] The start control module 706 is used to obtain the preset outlet water temperature and control the heater of the zero cold water water heater to start operation based on the preset outlet water temperature.

[0130] The preheating control module 708 is used to adjust the heating state of the heater according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature.

[0131] In some embodiments, the preheating control module 708 is further configured to determine the target outlet water temperature matched for each temperature adjustment period based on the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature; and to adjust the heating state of the heater based on the target outlet water temperature matched for the temperature adjustment period when the heater's operating time is within the corresponding temperature adjustment period.

[0132] In some embodiments, the preheating control module 708 is further configured to determine the temperature compensation value matched for each temperature adjustment period based on the timing of each temperature adjustment period and the compensation reference temperature.

[0133] Based on the preset outlet water temperature and the temperature compensation value matched for each temperature adjustment period, the target outlet water temperature matched for each temperature adjustment period is determined.

[0134] In some embodiments, the compensation analysis module 704 is further configured to determine a compensation reference temperature based on the ratio between the historical cruise heating duration and the preset maximum cruise heating duration.

[0135] In some embodiments, the preheating control module 708 is further configured to acquire the cruise status parameters of the zero-cold-water water heater; and control the heater to stop operating when the cruise status parameters meet the preset cruise end conditions.

[0136] In some embodiments, the preheating control module 708 is further configured to determine that the cruise status parameters meet the preset cruise termination conditions when the return water temperature parameter is greater than the preset upper temperature limit.

[0137] In some embodiments, the preheating control module 708 is further configured to determine that the cruise state parameters meet the preset cruise end conditions when the operating time of the heater reaches the preset maximum cruise heating time.

[0138] In some embodiments, the preheating control module 708 is further configured to generate a preheating cruise command when the zero-cold-water cruise heating time reaches the preset maximum cruise heating time during the zero-cold-water cruise process of the zero-cold-water water heater; or to obtain the ambient temperature and generate a preheating cruise command when the ambient temperature is lower than a preset temperature threshold.

[0139] In some embodiments, the start control module 706 is further configured to determine a preset outlet water temperature based on a compensation reference temperature.

[0140] The various modules in the cruise control device of the aforementioned zero-cold-water water heater can be implemented entirely or partially through software, hardware, or a combination thereof. These modules can be embedded in the processor of a computer device in hardware form or independent of it, or stored in the memory of a computer device in software form, so that the processor can call and execute the corresponding operations of each module.

[0141] In one exemplary embodiment, a gas-fired water heating device is provided. Please refer again... Figure 1 The gas-fired water heating device includes a zero-cold-water water heater 102 and a controller 104 connected together. The controller 104 is used to implement the steps of the cruise control method for the zero-cold-water water heater. The cruise control method for the zero-cold-water water heater can be referred to the above embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0142] The specific structure of the zero-cold-water water heater 102 is not limited, and those skilled in the art can refer to commonly used techniques in the field for its design. As an example, the zero-cold-water water heater 102 is a gas water heater, and the heater of the zero-cold-water water heater 102 is the burner. Regulating the heating state of the heater refers to adjusting the heat released by the gas water heater from burning gas per unit time. By adjusting the gas supply of the burner, the heat load can be adjusted, that is, the heating state can be controlled.

[0143] In one embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0144] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above methods. Any references to memory, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include at least one of non-volatile memory and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, optical memory, high-density embedded non-volatile memory, resistive random access memory (ReRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), phase change memory (PCM), graphene memory, etc. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory, etc. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM can take many forms, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) or Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM). The databases involved in the embodiments provided in this application may include at least one type of relational database and non-relational database. Non-relational databases may include, but are not limited to, blockchain-based distributed databases. The processors involved in the embodiments provided in this application may be general-purpose processors, central processing units, graphics processing units, digital signal processors, programmable logic devices, quantum computing-based data processing logic devices, artificial intelligence (AI) processors, etc., and are not limited to these.

[0145] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this application.

[0146] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cruise control method for a zero-cold-water water heater, characterized in that, The method includes: In response to the preheating cruise command, the historical cruise heating duration of the zero-cold-water water heater is obtained; The compensation reference temperature is determined based on the historical cruise heating duration. Obtain the preset outlet water temperature, and control the heater of the zero-cold-water water heater to start operation based on the preset outlet water temperature; The heating state of the heater is adjusted according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heater operation process includes multiple consecutive temperature adjustment periods in time; the step of adjusting the heating state of the heater according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature includes: The target outlet water temperature is determined based on the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature for each of the temperature adjustment periods. When the operating time of the heater is within the corresponding temperature adjustment period, the heating state of the heater is adjusted according to the target outlet water temperature matched by the temperature adjustment period.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The step of determining the target outlet temperature for each of the temperature adjustment periods based on the preset outlet temperature and the compensation reference temperature includes: Based on the timing of each temperature adjustment period and the compensation reference temperature, determine the temperature compensation value matched for each temperature adjustment period. Based on the preset outlet water temperature and the temperature compensation value matched for each of the temperature adjustment periods, the target outlet water temperature matched for each of the temperature adjustment periods is determined.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The step of determining the compensation reference temperature based on the historical cruise heating duration includes: The compensation reference temperature is determined based on the ratio between the historical cruise heating duration and the preset maximum cruise heating duration.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, After adjusting the heating state of the heater according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature, the method further includes: Obtain the cruise status parameters of the zero-cold-water water heater; If the cruise status parameters meet the preset cruise end conditions, the heater is controlled to stop operating.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The cruise status parameters include the return water temperature parameter, and the method further includes: If the return water temperature parameter is greater than the preset upper temperature limit, the cruise status parameter is determined to meet the preset cruise termination condition.

7. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The cruise status parameters include the operating time of the heater, and the method further includes: If the operating time of the heater reaches the preset maximum cruise heating time, the cruise status parameters are determined to meet the preset cruise end conditions.

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes at least one of the following: The first item: During the zero-cold-water cruise process of the zero-cold-water water heater, when the zero-cold-water cruise heating time reaches the preset maximum cruise heating time, the preheating cruise command is generated. The second step: Obtain the ambient temperature; if the ambient temperature is lower than a preset temperature threshold, generate the preheating cruise command.

9. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The preset outlet water temperature is determined based on the compensation reference temperature.

10. A cruise control device for a zero-cold-water water heater, characterized in that, The device includes: The duration acquisition module is used to acquire the historical cruise heating duration of the zero-cold-water water heater in response to the preheating cruise command; The compensation analysis module is used to determine the compensation reference temperature based on the historical cruise heating duration. The start control module is used to obtain the preset outlet water temperature and control the heater of the zero cold water water heater to start operation based on the preset outlet water temperature; The preheating control module is used to adjust the heating state of the heater according to the preset outlet water temperature and the compensation reference temperature.

11. A gas-fired hot water device, characterized in that, The device includes a connected zero-cold-water water heater and a controller, the controller being used to perform the steps of the cruise control method for the zero-cold-water water heater according to any one of claims 1-9.

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

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