Stove state detection method, stove and range hood and stove linkage system

Abstract

The invention discloses a kitchen range state detection method, a kitchen range and a range hood and kitchen range linkage system, and belongs to the technical field of kitchen ranges. The kitchen range state detection method comprises the steps that the state of an electromagnetic valve on a kitchen range gas channel is obtained; acquiring an opening angle of a gas knob of the stove, wherein the opening angle is an angle difference value of a current rotating position of the knob relative to a preset zero returning position of the knob; under the condition that the opening angle is smaller than or equal to a first angle threshold value and an electromagnetic valve of the stove is in a closed state, it is judged that the stove is in a safe fire turning-off state, and the first angle threshold value represents a critical angle value of a gas knob of the stove in a safe fire turning-off range. When the electromagnetic valve of the kitchen range is in the closed state, even if the gas knob of the kitchen range does not completely return, it can still be judged that fire turning-off is successful when the knob rotates to the safe fire turning-off position, and the problems of abnormal state recognition and wrong data reporting caused by incomplete operation of the knob are reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of cooktop technology, and particularly relates to a cooktop status detection method and a cooktop and range hood linkage system. Background Technology

[0002] To address the issue of accurate stove status detection, various technical solutions have been proposed in the industry. For example, Chinese invention patent application CN217423312U discloses an ignition knob and a stove. In this technical solution, a potentiometer is used in the stove knob's rotation angle detection system. The potentiometer may include a fixed part and a rotating part. The rotating part may be disposed on the knob assembly. One of the conductive element and the contact may be disposed on the knob assembly by being disposed on the rotating part. The potentiometer can be used to output potential information based on the rotation angle of the rotating part relative to the fixed part.

[0003] Although the CN217423312U patent can detect the knob rotation angle using a potentiometer, in a linked operation mode between the range hood and cooktop, the cooktop's ignition or shutdown status can be detected and uploaded to the terminal. However, in actual use, when the user performs a turn-off operation, the solenoid valve may be closed, but the potentiometer output indicates the knob has not fully returned to its original position. In this case, the system may mistakenly interpret the cooktop as still being on and continuously report information indicating prolonged cooktop operation, leading to abnormal status recognition and erroneous data reporting. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application aims to address at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this application proposes a cooktop status detection method and a cooktop and range hood linkage system, which reduces the problems of abnormal status recognition and erroneous data reporting caused by incomplete knob operation.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides a method for detecting the status of a cooktop, including: Obtain the status of the solenoid valve on the gas passage of the stove; Obtain the opening angle of the gas knob on the stove. The opening angle is the angle difference between the current rotation position of the knob and its preset zero position. When the opening angle is less than or equal to the first angle threshold and the solenoid valve of the stove is in the closed state, the stove is determined to be in a safe shut-off state. The first angle threshold represents the critical angle value of the gas knob of the stove in the safe shut-off range.

[0006] According to the stove status detection method of this application, when the solenoid valve of the stove is in the closed state, even if the gas knob of the stove is not fully returned to the original position, it can still be determined that the flame is turned off successfully when the knob is rotated to the flame-off position, which reduces the problems of abnormal status recognition and erroneous data reporting caused by incomplete knob operation.

[0007] According to one embodiment of this application, the cooktop is communicatively connected to the range hood, and the cooktop status detection method further includes: When the opening angle is greater than the first angle threshold and the solenoid valve of the stove is in the closed state, the electromotive force of the thermocouple driving the solenoid valve is detected. If the electromotive force of the thermocouple is less than or equal to a preset threshold, the stove is determined to be in an abnormal shut-off state. In response to the determination that the device is in an abnormal shutdown state, an abnormal shutdown signal is sent to the smoke machine.

[0008] According to one embodiment of this application, after determining that the stove is in an abnormal shut-off state, the method further includes: The system periodically sends a signal to the range hood indicating that the knob is not in the correct position.

[0009] According to one embodiment of this application, after detecting the electromotive force of the thermocouple of the stove when the opening angle is greater than a first angle threshold and the solenoid valve of the stove is in the closed state, the method further includes: If the electromotive force of the thermocouple is greater than a preset threshold, the stove is determined to be in an unstable combustion state. In response to the determination that the stove is in an unstable combustion state, an unstable combustion signal is sent to the range hood.

[0010] According to one embodiment of this application, obtaining the status of the solenoid valve on the gas passage of the stove includes: Obtain the current value in the thermocouple circuit; If the current value in the thermocouple circuit is less than or equal to the current threshold, the solenoid valve is determined to be in the closed state.

[0011] According to one embodiment of this application, after obtaining the current value in the thermocouple circuit, the method further includes: If the current value in the thermocouple circuit is greater than the current threshold, the stove is determined to be in a combustion state. After determining that the stove is in a combustion state, if the electromotive force of the thermocouple is lower than the initial electromotive force of the thermocouple for a continuous period of time, the stove is determined to be in an accidental flameout state. In response to the determination that the stove is in an accidental flameout state, an accidental flameout signal is sent to the range hood.

[0012] According to one embodiment of this application, after determining that the stove is in a combustion state, the method further includes: Continuously monitor the opening angle of the gas knob; If the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than the second angle threshold and less than the third angle threshold, the stove is determined to be in low flame combustion state. If the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than the third angle threshold and less than the fourth angle threshold, the stove is determined to be in medium flame combustion state. If the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than the fourth angle threshold and less than the fifth angle threshold, the stove is determined to be in a high-fire combustion state. If the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than the fifth angle threshold, the stove is determined to be in low flame combustion state.

[0013] Secondly, this application provides a stove, which includes: The gas knob on the stove; The potentiometer has a first pin, a second pin, and a sliding pin. The first pin is used to connect to a reference voltage, the second pin is used to connect to a grounding node, and the sliding pin is connected to the gas knob of the stove. Solenoid valves are installed in the gas passage to control the on / off of gas supply. The controller is electrically connected to the sliding pin of the potentiometer and the solenoid valve, and is configured to perform the aforementioned stove status detection method.

[0014] According to the stove of this application, when the solenoid valve of the stove is in the closed state, even if the gas knob of the stove is not fully returned to the original position, it can still be determined that the flame is turned off successfully when the knob is turned to the off position, which reduces the problems of abnormal status recognition and erroneous data reporting caused by incomplete knob operation.

[0015] Thirdly, this application provides a range hood and cooktop linkage system, which includes a range hood, a server, terminal equipment and the aforementioned cooktop. The range hood and cooktop are communicatively connected, the range hood is also communicatively connected to the server, and the server is communicatively connected to the terminal equipment. The range hood is configured to receive signals reported by the cooktop and perform corresponding linkage operations based on the signals. The range hood is also configured to send the received signals to the server. The server is configured to send notifications to terminal devices based on signals.

[0016] According to the range hood and cooktop linkage system of this application, when the solenoid valve of the cooktop is in the closed state, even if the gas knob of the cooktop is not fully returned to the original position, the cooktop will still be judged to be successfully turned off when the knob is rotated to the off position, which reduces the problems of abnormal status recognition and erroneous data reporting caused by incomplete knob operation.

[0017] According to one embodiment of this application, the signals reported by the stove include at least one of the following: abnormal flameout signal, knob not returned to its original position signal, unstable combustion signal, and accidental flameout signal.

[0018] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is one of the flowcharts of the stove status detection method provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is the second flowchart of the stove status detection method provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0021] In the following description, a "circuit" refers to a conductive loop consisting of at least one element or sub-circuit connected by an electrical or electromagnetic link. When an element or circuit is said to be "coupled to" or "connected to" another element, or when an element / circuit is said to be "coupled at" or "connected at" two nodes, it can be directly coupled to or connected to the other element, or there may be intermediate elements. The connection between elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Conversely, when an element is said to be "directly coupled to" or "directly connected to" another element, it means that there are no intermediate elements between them.

[0022] In the description, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used to distinguish similar objects, not to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such numerical descriptors can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of this application can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein, and the objects distinguished by "first," "second," etc., are generally of the same class, not limited in number; for example, a first object can be one or more. Furthermore, in the specification and claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0023] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicates that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the detection process of the stove status detection method in this application, one embodiment of this application proposes a stove. In this embodiment, the stove includes: a gas knob, a mechanical valve, a potentiometer, a solenoid valve, a thermocouple, and a controller. The potentiometer has a first pin, a second pin, and a sliding pin. The first pin is used to connect to a reference voltage, the second pin is used to electrically connect to a grounding node, and the sliding pin is connected to the gas knob of the stove. The solenoid valve is disposed on the gas passage and is used to control the on / off of the gas. The controller is electrically connected to the sliding pin of the potentiometer and the solenoid valve respectively, and is used to monitor parameters such as the potentiometer voltage and the thermocouple circuit current, and to execute the stove status detection method.

[0025] The gas knob and mechanical valve on the stove are directly linked via a valve stem. Rotating the knob synchronously actuates the valve core and the sliding pin of the potentiometer in the mechanical valve. The mechanical valve is located in the gas passage and its opening is directly controlled by the knob. The solenoid valve is located in the gas passage after the mechanical valve and its on / off state is controlled by a controller. The solenoid valve requires a thermocouple to maintain its engagement. The thermocouple is installed near the burner cap and uses the thermoelectric electromotive force generated by the flame to provide a sustaining current to the solenoid valve.

[0026] A potentiometer is a variable resistor, typically with three leads. Adjusting the sliding lead changes the resistance value, creating a voltage divider. The first lead is connected to a reference voltage, the second lead to ground, and the sliding lead outputs a variable voltage between zero and the reference voltage. The gas knob on the stove is connected to the sliding lead, and the knob's rotation angle corresponds to a specific potentiometer resistance value. By changing the resistance, different voltages are generated, and the controller reads the corresponding voltage value to determine the knob's rotation angle.

[0027] The complete ignition and shutdown process of the stove is as follows: When the user presses and rotates the gas knob on the stove, the mechanical valve opens, and a linkage push rod forcibly opens the valve plug of the solenoid valve, providing an initial gas passage. Simultaneously, piezoelectric ignition or pulse ignition occurs, the gas flows out and is ignited, and the flame begins to heat the thermocouple, generating a thermoelectric electromotive force. The user needs to hold down the knob (usually for 5-10 seconds). When the user presses the knob, the mechanical valve actuates, causing a change in the state of the microswitch. The controller detects the corresponding signal change, sends an ignition signal, and provides a corresponding level signal to keep the corresponding solenoid valve open for 5-10 seconds. During this time, the electromotive force generated by the fully heated thermocouple forms a current in the circuit, causing the solenoid valve coil to generate sufficient magnetic force to hold the valve plug in place. After the user releases their hand, the linkage push rod springs back, but the solenoid valve, powered by the thermocouple, remains open due to magnetic force. At the same time, the mechanical valve also remains in the open position. At this point, the gas passage is completely unobstructed, and the knob can be freely rotated to adjust the flame intensity via the mechanical valve.

[0028] When the knob is turned back to the off position, the mechanical valve closes. Gas supply stops, and the flame extinguishes. The thermocouple cools down, and the solenoid valve closes accordingly.

[0029] In the linked operation mode of the range hood and cooktop, the ignition or shutdown status of the cooktop can be detected and uploaded to the terminal. However, in actual use, when the user performs the turn-off operation, the solenoid valve may be closed but the knob may not be fully returned to its original position. In this case, the system will mistakenly judge that the cooktop is still on and continue to report that the cooktop has been running for a long time, resulting in abnormal status recognition and erroneous data reporting.

[0030] This application proposes a cooktop status detection method and a cooktop and range hood linkage system, which reduces the problems of abnormal status recognition and erroneous data reporting caused by incomplete knob operation.

[0031] Figure 1 A flowchart of the stove status detection method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. (Refer to...) Figure 1 One embodiment of this application proposes a stove status detection method, including steps 10, 20 and 30.

[0032] Step 10: Obtain the status of the solenoid valve on the gas passage of the stove; Step 20: Obtain the opening angle of the gas knob on the stove. The opening angle is the angle difference between the current rotation position of the knob and its preset zero position. Step 30: When the opening angle is less than or equal to the first angle threshold and the solenoid valve of the stove is in the closed state, it is determined that the stove is in a safe shut-off state. The first angle threshold represents the critical angle value of the gas knob of the stove in the safe shut-off range.

[0033] The execution subject of the stove status detection method provided in the embodiments of this application can be the aforementioned controller or a functional module or functional entity in the controller that can implement the detection method. The stove status detection method provided in the embodiments of this application is described below using the controller as the execution subject as an example.

[0034] The stove status detection method provided in the embodiments of this application is typically applied to the stove when it is turned on. The stove's on state refers to the working state of the stove after the user presses and rotates the gas knob. In the stove's on state, the stove has typically completed the following actions: after rotating the knob, the mechanical valve is opened, allowing gas to flow into the stove; gas enters the combustion chamber through the stove's intake pipe, providing fuel for ignition; a microswitch is triggered during knob operation, further ensuring that the controller can promptly obtain the gas flow signal. In this state, the controller will perform ignition control based on signal changes, sending an ignition signal to the igniter and controlling the solenoid valve to remain open for 5 to 10 seconds to ensure that the gas fully contacts the ignition source, completing the ignition process.

[0035] When the stove is on, the controller continuously monitors the status of the solenoid valve. Specifically, the controller determines the on / off state of the solenoid valve by detecting the electrical signal in the control circuit linked to it. When the solenoid valve is closed, it indicates that the gas supply has stopped, and the stove should theoretically be in the off state.

[0036] Assuming the solenoid valve is closed, the controller acquires the voltage signal from the sliding pin of the potentiometer, which is mechanically connected to the gas knob on the stove. This potentiometer forms a voltage divider circuit, with its first pin connected to a reference voltage and its second pin grounded. The sliding pin changes position as the knob rotates. Understandably, the voltage output from this sliding pin is directly proportional to the knob's rotation angle: the larger the knob's opening, the higher the voltage; the closer the knob is to the closed position, the lower the voltage. Therefore, by monitoring the voltage signal output by the potentiometer, the controller can determine the knob's rotation angle.

[0037] The controller integrates an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) module, which converts the acquired continuous analog voltage values ​​into discrete digital values ​​so that the controller's internal program can read and process them. The controller compares the specific voltage value corresponding to the received voltage signal with a pre-stored first voltage threshold. This first voltage threshold corresponds to a first angle threshold, which is the critical angle value indicating that the gas knob of the stove is in the safe off position. If the specific voltage value corresponding to the voltage signal acquired by the controller is less than or equal to the first voltage threshold, it indicates that although there may be minor mechanical tolerances, the knob can be considered to have returned to the off position. At this point, combined with the confirmed closed state of the solenoid valve, the controller can determine that the stove has been successfully turned off.

[0038] The specific value of the first angle threshold can be set according to the actual application scenario, and is not limited here. For example, the first angle threshold can be 5° or 10°.

[0039] As an example, when the knob is fully off, the potentiometer's sliding pin is close to the second pin, and the potentiometer outputs a voltage of 0V. As the knob rotates to a certain angle, the potentiometer's sliding pin begins to deflect, and the voltage gradually increases. For example, when the knob is rotated halfway, the potentiometer's output voltage might be 2.5V. When the knob is fully rotated to the maximum open position, the potentiometer's sliding pin is close to the first pin, and the voltage reaches its maximum value, such as 5V. Assuming that to determine whether the stove has been successfully turned off, a first angle threshold of 10° and a first voltage threshold of 0.2V are set, the controller will consider the knob to have returned to the off position and determine that the stove has been successfully turned off when the potentiometer output voltage is less than or equal to 0.2V.

[0040] Assuming the gas knob on the stove is rotated at 5° and the voltage output by the potentiometer is 0.1V, which is lower than the set first voltage threshold, the stove can still be considered successfully turned off even if the knob is not fully returned to its original position.

[0041] According to the stove status detection method of this application, when the solenoid valve of the stove is in the closed state, even if the gas knob of the stove is not fully returned to the original position, it can still be determined that the flame is turned off successfully when the knob is rotated to the flame-off position, which reduces the problems of abnormal status recognition and erroneous data reporting caused by incomplete knob operation.

[0042] In some embodiments, the cooktop and the range hood are communicatively connected, and the cooktop status detection method further includes: when the opening angle is greater than a first angle threshold and the solenoid valve of the cooktop is in the closed state, detecting the electromotive force of the thermocouple driving the solenoid valve; when the electromotive force of the thermocouple is less than or equal to a preset threshold, determining that the cooktop is in an abnormal shut-off state; and in response to determining that the cooktop is in an abnormal shut-off state, sending an abnormal shut-off signal to the range hood.

[0043] When the opening angle is greater than the first angle threshold, that is, when the potentiometer output voltage is greater than the first voltage threshold, it indicates that the gas knob of the stove is not completely closed, or the knob may be rotated at a large angle. At this time, the mechanical valve may be opened, and there is a possibility of reignition in the stove, that is, the stove may still be in the open state.

[0044] After determining that the voltage output by the potentiometer is greater than the first voltage threshold, the controller further detects whether the thermocouple in the stove generates an electromotive force (EMF). A thermocouple is a sensor used to measure temperature changes. When the stove is operating, due to the high temperature, the thermocouple generates an EMF, the magnitude of which is directly related to the temperature of the stove's combustion flame. When the stove is at a high temperature or is burning, the thermocouple generates a certain EMF, which is usually manifested as a specific voltage signal.

[0045] The preset threshold is a near-zero, non-negative voltage reference value, mainly used to determine whether the thermocouple has generated an effective thermoelectric potential.

[0046] The controller can detect the electromotive force (EMF) output by the thermocouple. If the EMF of the thermocouple is less than or equal to a preset threshold, the controller considers the flame of the stove to be extinguished. An EMF less than or equal to the preset threshold usually means that the stove has been turned off, or the temperature has dropped below the set operating range.

[0047] An opening angle greater than a first angle threshold indicates a large knob angle, meaning the knob has not yet returned to its original position. However, the embodiments of this application, combining the solenoid valve closing signal and thermocouple temperature monitoring, can more accurately determine whether the stove is in an abnormal shut-off state. An abnormal shut-off state means that although the knob is not returned to its original position, the gas supply to the stove has been cut off, and the temperature detected by the thermocouple has not reached the level of normal combustion, indicating that the stove is already in a shut-off state. A knob not returning to its original position in this state will not lead to a safety accident. Therefore, by combining the signals from the solenoid valve and the thermocouple, it is possible to avoid misjudging the combustion state based solely on the knob angle, thereby improving the accuracy and safety of stove status identification.

[0048] In the embodiments of this application, the range hood and the cooktop are connected via wired or wireless communication protocols, enabling them to share data and control signals in real time. For example, when the cooktop is on, the controller monitors the cooktop status in real time and transmits the cooktop information to the Bluetooth module. The Bluetooth module then communicates with the range hood's WiFi module to send the cooktop status information.

[0049] In the above embodiments, once the controller determines that the cooktop is in an abnormal shut-off state, it can send an abnormal shut-off signal to the range hood via Bluetooth. The range hood, as a device linked to the cooktop, can receive the abnormal shut-off signal via WiFi and adjust its operating status accordingly. For example, the range hood may stop venting or activate a corresponding alarm mechanism.

[0050] In some embodiments, after determining that the stove is in an abnormal shut-off state, the method further includes periodically reporting a knob not returned to its original position signal to the range hood.

[0051] If the cooktop is confirmed to be in an abnormal shutdown state, the controller will generate an abnormal shutdown signal. This signal can be transmitted to the range hood to inform it that the cooktop and range hood have been turned off. The abnormal shutdown signal helps the range hood confirm the cooktop's status, avoiding unnecessary actions or false alarms due to incorrect cooktop status recognition. For example, the range hood can stop operating based on the successful shutdown signal, saving energy and avoiding unnecessary energy consumption.

[0052] If the controller detects that the voltage output of the potentiometer exceeds a first voltage threshold, meaning the gas knob's opening angle is greater than a first angle threshold, it indicates the knob is not fully returned to its original position. The stove may still be partially open, posing a safety hazard or indicating operational error. In this situation, the controller periodically generates and reports a "knob not returned to its original position" signal. This signal can be displayed on the range hood's user interface, reminding the user to check the gas knob's position and ensure it is fully returned to its original position. This ensures the stove is properly shut off, avoiding potential gas leaks or malfunctions.

[0053] In some embodiments, when the opening angle is greater than a first angle threshold and the solenoid valve of the stove is in the closed state, after detecting the electromotive force of the thermocouple of the stove, the method further includes: when the electromotive force of the thermocouple is greater than a preset threshold, determining that the stove is in an unstable combustion state; and in response to determining that the stove is in an unstable combustion state, sending an unstable combustion signal to the range hood.

[0054] If the gas knob on the stove is turned more than a first threshold angle, it indicates that the gas knob is not completely closed, or even turned at a large angle, meaning the stove may still be on. In this case, the controller will read the signal from the stove's thermocouple to determine if an electromotive force (EMF) exists. If the EMF is greater than a preset threshold, it indicates that the combustion chamber may still be working, meaning the stove is not completely shut off.

[0055] Once a failed flameout is confirmed, the controller can automatically generate an unstable combustion signal. This signal can be transmitted to the range hood to alert the user to the abnormal status of the stove and to take necessary safety measures. Through the abnormal combustion signal, the range hood can promptly provide feedback and instruct the user to take further action, ensuring the safety of the equipment.

[0056] In some embodiments, obtaining the state of the solenoid valve of the stove includes: obtaining the current value in the thermocouple circuit; and determining that the solenoid valve is in a closed state when the current value in the thermocouple circuit is less than or equal to a current threshold.

[0057] When the user presses and rotates the gas knob on the stove, if the stove is working normally, the thermocouple is fully heated, and the resulting electromotive force forms a current in the circuit. The controller can obtain the value of the thermocouple's electromotive force and calculate the current value in the circuit. The controller compares the calculated current value with a preset current threshold. The current threshold is set according to the stove's design parameters and usage requirements, and its specific value is not limited here. For example, the current threshold can be 80mA or 85mA, etc.

[0058] If the detected current value is less than or equal to the current threshold, it means that the current in the thermocouple circuit has dropped to the minimum level. Under normal circumstances, the combustion process of the stove has stopped, and it can be determined that the solenoid valve is in the closed state.

[0059] Based on the comparison between the current value and the current threshold, the controller can determine the status of the solenoid valve and provide feedback on this status to the user or the control system. For example, when the solenoid valve is determined to be closed, the system can display a "stove is off" message to the user interface or send signals to other safety devices, such as the range hood or alarm system, to ensure that all linked devices can operate appropriately based on the stove's off status.

[0060] In some embodiments, after obtaining the current value in the thermocouple circuit, the method further includes: determining that the stove is in a combustion state if the current value in the thermocouple circuit is greater than a current threshold.

[0061] If the current value in the thermocouple circuit is greater than the current threshold, it indicates that the thermocouple circuit is still in operation and the combustion process of the stove is still in progress. At this time, the user should pay attention to whether it is necessary to turn off the stove or take safety measures.

[0062] The stove's status can be automatically detected and fed back based on the current value in the thermocouple circuit. The current value in the thermocouple circuit provides an automated way to determine whether the solenoid valve has been successfully closed, avoiding oversights or errors caused by human operation.

[0063] In some embodiments, the cooktop is communicatively connected to the range hood. After determining that the cooktop is in a combustion state, the method further includes: determining that the cooktop is in an accidental flameout state when the electromotive force of the thermocouple is lower than the initial electromotive force of the thermocouple for a period of time; and sending an accidental flameout signal to the range hood in response to determining that the cooktop is in an accidental flameout state.

[0064] Under normal circumstances, the thermocouple will maintain a stable temperature during the combustion process of the stove, and the thermocouple electromotive force should remain within a expected range.

[0065] Initial electromotive force (EMF) refers to the EMF value generated by the thermocouple when the stove is ignited under normal combustion conditions. Preset time refers to the maximum time range within which the system allows for changes in the thermocouple EMF, typically between a few seconds and tens of seconds.

[0066] During combustion, the controller continuously monitors the electromotive force (EMF) of the thermocouple and compares it with the initial EMF. If, over a sustained period, the EMF of the thermocouple is lower than the initial EMF, it indicates that the thermocouple has failed to maintain a normal temperature difference, which usually suggests a change in the combustion state of the stove.

[0067] If the electromotive force of the thermocouple is lower than its initial electromotive force, and this change occurs over a period of time, the system will determine that the stove has experienced an accidental flameout. There are many reasons for accidental flameout; for example, if soup spills and extinguishes the flame, or if wind blows the flame out, the thermocouple will cool down rapidly.

[0068] Once the controller detects an unexpected flameout of the cooktop, it immediately generates an unexpected flameout fault signal and sends it to the range hood. Upon receiving this signal, the range hood can perform a series of preset actions, such as stopping smoke extraction, adjusting the fan speed, or activating the alarm mechanism. Furthermore, it can display warning messages on the range hood interface or issue an audible alert via a buzzer, promptly notifying the user of the malfunction and preventing safety accidents caused by undetected cooktop flameout, thus improving cooktop safety.

[0069] In some embodiments, after determining that the stove is in a combustion state, the method further includes: continuously acquiring the opening angle of the gas knob; determining that the stove is in a low-flame combustion state when the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than a second angle threshold and less than a third angle threshold; determining that the stove is in a medium-flame combustion state when the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than a third angle threshold and less than a fourth angle threshold; determining that the stove is in a high-flame combustion state when the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than a fourth angle threshold and less than a fifth angle threshold; and determining that the stove is in a low-flame combustion state when the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than a fifth angle threshold.

[0070] When the stove is in combustion mode, the controller will detect the voltage value output by the potentiometer in real time. The voltage value output by the potentiometer is positively correlated with the rotation angle of the gas knob of the stove. The rotation angle of the gas knob of the stove is usually related to the firepower adjustment system of the stove. In other words, the voltage value output by the potentiometer can reflect the firepower status of the stove.

[0071] Therefore, the solution in this embodiment can be understood as follows: when the voltage value output by the potentiometer is greater than the second voltage threshold and less than the third voltage threshold, the stove is determined to be in a low-heat burning state; when the voltage value output by the potentiometer is greater than the third voltage threshold and less than the fourth voltage threshold, the stove is determined to be in a medium-heat burning state; and when the voltage value output by the potentiometer is greater than the fourth voltage threshold, the stove is determined to be in a high-heat burning state.

[0072] When the voltage value output by the potentiometer, as received by the controller, is greater than the second voltage threshold but less than the third voltage threshold, it indicates that the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than the second angle threshold but less than the third angle threshold. Conversely, when the voltage value output by the potentiometer is greater than the fifth voltage threshold, it indicates that the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than the fifth angle threshold. In both of these cases, the controller will determine that the stove is in low-heat combustion mode. Low-heat mode typically indicates that the stove's heat output is low, suitable for scenarios requiring long-term simmering or small-area heating. In this mode, the stove's heat output is relatively gentle, and the voltage signal is relatively low, conforming to the set low-heat voltage range.

[0073] When the voltage value output by the potentiometer is greater than the third voltage threshold but less than the fourth voltage threshold, it indicates that the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than the third angle threshold but less than the fourth angle threshold, and the controller will determine that the stove is in medium-heat combustion mode. Medium-heat mode is suitable for most daily cooking operations, such as stir-frying and boiling. In this mode, the stove provides moderate heat, and the voltage signal value is in a relatively high range, conforming to the set medium-heat voltage range.

[0074] When the voltage value output by the potentiometer is greater than the fourth voltage threshold but less than the fifth voltage threshold, it indicates that the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than the fourth angle threshold but less than the fifth angle threshold, and the controller will determine that the stove is in high-heat combustion mode. High-heat mode is typically used for rapid heating, frying, or other cooking operations requiring high temperatures. In this mode, the stove's heat output is at its maximum, conforming to the set high-heat voltage range.

[0075] The specific values ​​of the second, third, fourth, and fifth voltage thresholds can be determined based on the actual application scenario and are not limited here. For example, the second voltage threshold can be 2V, corresponding to a second angle threshold of 30°; the third voltage threshold can be 3V, corresponding to a third angle threshold of 60°; the fourth voltage threshold can be 4V, corresponding to a fourth angle threshold of 90°; and the fifth voltage threshold can be 5V, corresponding to a fifth angle threshold of 120°. When the voltage value of the sliding pin voltage signal is 2.5V, the controller determines that the stove is in a low-flame combustion state.

[0076] The controller monitors the firepower status of the cooking appliance in real time based on the acquired voltage signal, facilitating the user to adjust the combustion mode according to requirements. Based on the real-time judgment of the voltage signal, the system can not only accurately control the firepower status of the cooking appliance, but also ensure the safe operation of the cooking appliance in different firepower states through linkage with other safety systems. For example, if the cooking appliance is in the high-fire state and the system detects abnormal changes (such as too high temperature or voltage fluctuation), the controller can promptly take safety protection measures, such as automatically reducing the firepower or shutting off the gas supply, to avoid potential safety hazards.

[0077] Figure 2 The flowchart of the cooking appliance status detection method provided by an embodiment of the present application is shown. Referring to Figure 2 , the overall process of the cooking appliance status detection method of the present application is as follows: After the user presses and rotates the gas knob of the cooking appliance, the mechanical valve is opened, and gas enters the combustion chamber through the intake pipe of the cooking appliance. The microswitch is triggered during the knob operation, and the controller can obtain the gas flow signal. The controller will perform ignition control according to the signal change, send an ignition signal to the igniter. After the ignition needle receives the ignition signal, it discharges, and controls the solenoid valve to remain open for 5 to 10 seconds (8 seconds is taken as an example in the present application) to ensure that the gas fully contacts the ignition source and complete the ignition process.

[0078] After completing the ignition process, the controller detects the current value in the thermocouple circuit. If the current value in the thermocouple circuit is greater than the current threshold, it is determined that the solenoid valve is in the open state. At this time, the electromotive force generated by the thermocouple being fully heated forms a current in the circuit, causing the coil of the solenoid valve to generate sufficient magnetic force to maintain the solenoid valve open. In this case, the user can adjust the firepower size through the knob. The controller will detect the voltage signal of the sliding pin in real time to judge the firepower status of the cooking appliance and upload the detection result to the user terminal (such as a mobile phone APP).

[0079] If the current value in the thermocouple circuit is less than or equal to the current threshold, it is determined that the solenoid valve is in the closed state, indicating that the gas supply has stopped, and the cooking appliance should theoretically enter the关火 state. On the premise of confirming that the solenoid valve has been closed, the controller obtains the voltage signal of the sliding pin of the potentiometer mechanically connected to the gas knob of the cooking appliance. When the voltage value output by the potentiometer is less than or equal to the first voltage threshold, it is determined that the cooking appliance has been successfully turned off. When the voltage value output by the potentiometer is greater than the first voltage threshold, it indicates that the gas knob of the cooking appliance has not been fully closed, and even the rotation angle of the knob may be relatively large. At this time, the mechanical valve may be opened, and there is a possibility of the cooking appliance reigniting.

[0080] In the above scenario, the controller detects whether the thermocouple generates an electromotive force (EMF). If the thermocouple does not generate an EMF, i.e., the EMF is below a set threshold, the controller determines that the stove has been successfully turned off, but the knob has not been reset. Therefore, the controller generates a successful turn-off signal. Based on the potentiometer output voltage value being greater than the first voltage threshold, a knob not reset signal is periodically generated and reported. The reporting period for the knob not reset signal can be selected according to the actual application scenario and is not limited here. For example, a knob not reset signal can be reported once every 1 hour. If the thermocouple generates an EMF, the controller determines that the stove failed to turn off and generates a turn-off failure signal.

[0081] One embodiment of this application proposes a stove. The specific structure and function of the stove can be referred to the foregoing embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0082] The gas knob on the stove is connected to the sliding pin of the potentiometer, and the rotation angle of the knob corresponds to the resistance value of the potentiometer. Different voltages are generated by the change in resistance, and the controller reads the corresponding voltage value to adjust the knob to the appropriate position.

[0083] With the solenoid valve closed, the gas supply has stopped, and the stove should theoretically be in the off-state. The controller acquires the voltage signal from the sliding pin of the potentiometer mechanically connected to the gas knob on the stove. This signal is compared to a pre-stored first voltage threshold. The first voltage threshold corresponds to the physical angle at which the knob is fully closed or considered safely closed. If the specific voltage value corresponding to the voltage signal acquired by the controller is less than or equal to the first voltage threshold, it indicates that although there may be minor mechanical tolerances, the knob can be considered to have returned to the closed position. At this point, combined with the confirmed closed state of the solenoid valve, the controller can determine that the stove has been successfully turned off.

[0084] According to the stove of this application, when the solenoid valve of the stove is in the closed state, even if the gas knob of the stove is not fully returned to the original position, it can still be determined that the flame is turned off successfully when the knob is turned to the off position, which reduces the problems of abnormal status recognition and erroneous data reporting caused by incomplete knob operation.

[0085] One embodiment of this application proposes a range hood and cooktop linkage system, which includes a range hood, a server, a terminal device, and the aforementioned cooktop. The range hood is communicatively connected to the cooktop, and also communicatively connected to the server. The server is communicatively connected to the terminal device. The range hood is configured to receive signals reported by the cooktop and perform corresponding linkage operations based on the signals. The range hood is also configured to send the received signals to the server. The server is configured to send notifications to the terminal device based on the signals.

[0086] The range hood is used to suck and exhaust the fumes in the kitchen to ensure fresh air in the kitchen. The range hood is usually equipped with multiple suction modes, which can be adjusted according to the firepower state of the cooking appliance to optimize the fume suction and exhaust effect.

[0087] The cooking appliance can monitor the state of the flame through the controller and provide real-time feedback signals to the range hood. A communication connection is established between the range hood and the cooking appliance. In the case of the linkage between the range hood and the cooking appliance, the range hood receives the state signals from the cooking appliance in real time. These signals can include information such as the combustion state of the cooking appliance, the knob angle, and the temperature change. After receiving these signals, the range hood performs corresponding operations according to the set linkage logic, such as adjusting the wind speed, starting the exhaust mode, or activating the fault alarm.

[0088] The range hood can not only communicate directly with the cooking appliance but also communicate with the server. The role of the server is to act as a center for data processing and information transmission, collecting and storing various types of information from the range hood and the cooking appliance. In this way, the working states of the cooking appliance and the range hood can be monitored in real time, and data analysis and abnormal warning can be carried out. In addition, the server is also connected to terminal devices (such as mobile phones, tablets, or other smart devices). The terminal devices can receive real-time notifications and warnings from the server, so that users can monitor the working states of the cooking appliance and the range hood at any time through the terminal devices. When an abnormality occurs in the cooking appliance or user intervention is required, the server will send a notification to the terminal device to ensure that the user can take necessary measures in time.

[0089] In some embodiments, the signals reported by the cooking appliance include at least one of an abnormal flameout signal, a knob not returned signal, an unstable combustion signal, and an accidental flameout signal.

[0090] After receiving the signals from the cooking appliance, the range hood can perform corresponding linkage operations based on these signals. Specifically, when the flame of the cooking appliance is completely extinguished, the cooking appliance controller sends a successful flameout signal to the range hood, indicating that the cooking process has ended. The range hood can start to reduce the suction, enter the low gear standby mode, or directly shut down. If the knob of the cooking appliance does not return to the initial position, the cooking appliance will send a knob not returned signal to the range hood. After receiving this signal, the range hood can display an icon or text of "knob not returned" on the display screen to provide clear operation feedback to the user. When the cooking appliance fails to extinguish the flame successfully due to certain reasons, the cooking appliance controller will send a failed flameout signal to the range hood. After receiving this signal, the range hood can immediately trigger emergency linkage operations, such as increasing the suction or starting other safety protection measures, to ensure that the fumes in the air are discharged in time and avoid potential fire hazards. If an accidental flameout fault occurs in the cooking appliance, the cooking appliance will send an "accidental flameout fault signal" to the range hood. After receiving this signal, the range hood can cooperate with the cooking appliance to give an alarm prompt to prevent dangers caused by gas leakage.

[0091] Through intelligent linkage, the range hood and cooktop can work closely together, and the system can dynamically adjust the working mode of the range hood according to the status of the cooktop, thereby achieving more intelligent kitchen management.

[0092] According to the range hood and cooktop linkage system of this application, when the solenoid valve of the cooktop is in the closed state, even if the gas knob of the cooktop is not fully returned to the original position, it can still be determined that the flame is turned off successfully when the knob is rotated to the flame-off position, which reduces the problems of abnormal status recognition and erroneous data reporting caused by incomplete knob operation.

[0093] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of this application, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for detecting the status of a stove, characterized in that, include: Obtain the status of the solenoid valve on the gas passage of the stove; The opening angle of the gas knob of the stove is obtained, wherein the opening angle is the angle difference between the current rotation position of the knob and its preset zero position; When the opening angle is less than or equal to a first angle threshold and the solenoid valve of the stove is in the closed state, the stove is determined to be in a safe shut-off state. The first angle threshold represents the critical angle at which the gas knob is in the safe shut-off range.

2. The stove status detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooktop is communicatively connected to the range hood, and the cooktop status detection method further includes: When the opening angle is greater than the first angle threshold and the solenoid valve of the stove is in the closed state, the electromotive force of the thermocouple driving the solenoid valve is detected. If the electromotive force of the thermocouple is less than or equal to a preset threshold, the stove is determined to be in an abnormal shut-off state. In response to determining that the stove is in an abnormal shut-off state, an abnormal shut-off signal is sent to the range hood.

3. The stove status detection method according to claim 2, characterized in that, After determining that the stove is in an abnormal shut-off state, the method further includes: The system periodically reports a signal that the knob is not in the correct position to the smoke machine.

4. The stove status detection method according to claim 2, characterized in that, After detecting the electromotive force of the thermocouple of the stove when the opening angle is greater than the first angle threshold and the electromagnetic valve of the stove is in the closed state, the method further includes: If the electromotive force generated by the thermocouple is greater than a preset threshold, the stove is determined to be in an unstable combustion state. In response to determining that the stove is in an unstable combustion state, an unstable combustion signal is sent to the range hood.

5. The stove condition detection method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The process of obtaining the status of the electromagnetic valve on the gas passage of the stove includes: Obtain the current value in the thermocouple circuit; If the current value in the thermocouple circuit is less than or equal to the current threshold, the solenoid valve is determined to be in the closed state.

6. The stove status detection method according to claim 5, characterized in that, After obtaining the current value in the thermocouple circuit, the process further includes: If the current value in the thermocouple circuit is greater than the current threshold, the stove is determined to be in a combustion state. After determining that the stove is in a combustion state, if the electromotive force of the thermocouple is lower than the initial electromotive force of the thermocouple for a continuous period of time, it is determined that the stove is in an accidental flameout state. In response to determining that the stove is in an accidental flameout state, an accidental flameout signal is generated.

7. The stove status detection method according to claim 6, characterized in that, After determining that the stove is in a combustion state, the method further includes: Continuously acquire the opening angle of the gas knob; If the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than the second angle threshold and less than the third angle threshold, the stove is determined to be in a low-flame combustion state. If the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than the third angle threshold and less than the fourth angle threshold, the stove is determined to be in a medium-fire combustion state. If the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than the fourth angle threshold and less than the fifth angle threshold, the stove is determined to be in a high-fire combustion state. If the opening angle of the gas knob is greater than the fifth angle threshold, the stove is determined to be in a low-flame combustion state.

8. A stove, characterized in that, include: The gas knob on the stove; The potentiometer has a first pin, a second pin, and a sliding pin. The first pin is used to connect to a reference voltage, the second pin is used to connect to a grounding node, and the sliding pin is connected to the gas knob of the stove. Solenoid valves are installed in the gas passage to control the on / off of gas supply. The controller is electrically connected to the sliding pin of the potentiometer and the solenoid valve, respectively, and the controller is configured to perform the stove status detection method according to any one of claims 1-7.

9. A range hood and cooktop linkage system, characterized in that, It includes a range hood, a server, a terminal device, and a cooktop according to claim 8, wherein the range hood is communicatively connected to the cooktop, the range hood is also communicatively connected to the server, and the server is communicatively connected to the terminal device; The range hood is configured to receive signals reported by the cooktop and perform corresponding linkage operations based on the signals. The range hood is also configured to send the received signals to the server. The server is configured to send a notification to the terminal device based on the signal.

10. The range hood and cooktop linkage system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The signals reported by the stove include at least one of the following: abnormal flameout signal, knob not returned to its original position signal, unstable combustion signal, and accidental flameout signal.

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