Power supply control method and knob assembly

Abstract

The invention provides a power supply control method and a knob assembly. The knob assembly comprises a knob. The knob comprises a photovoltaic module, a rechargeable energy storage unit and a control unit; the method is executed by a control unit and comprises the following steps: obtaining electric energy from a rechargeable energy storage unit to maintain the operation of the control unit; monitoring the output voltage of the photovoltaic module; and when the output voltage meets the preset charging condition, controlling the photovoltaic module to charge the rechargeable energy storage unit. In the mode, the photovoltaic module on the knob can be utilized to actively collect ambient light and charge the internal rechargeable energy storage unit, so that continuous supplementation and recycling of electric energy of the knob module are realized, the battery burden is reduced, the cruising ability of the knob module is further improved, the battery replacement frequency is reduced, and the user experience is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of smart home technology, and in particular to a power supply control method and a knob assembly. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of smart kitchen appliances, retrofittable smart knob components are used to achieve intelligent linkage between cooktops and range hoods. These knob components need to be installed on existing cooktops and therefore must rely on an independent internal power supply to operate.

[0003] Currently, the most common technical solution is to use disposable primary batteries (such as button batteries) as the power supply unit. To extend the limited battery life, existing technologies mostly focus on optimizing software algorithms to achieve low-power operation or designing complex deep sleep circuits. However, no matter how optimized, the power of such disposable batteries will eventually be exhausted.

[0004] Therefore, users still need to periodically remove the knob to replace the battery, which is not only inconvenient to operate, but also increases the long-term cost of use for users. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, the purpose of this application is to provide a power supply control method and a knob assembly, which can actively collect ambient light using photovoltaic components on the knob and charge the internal rechargeable energy storage unit, thereby realizing the continuous replenishment and recycling of the knob assembly's own electrical energy, reducing the battery burden, thereby improving the knob assembly's battery life, reducing the frequency of battery replacement, and improving the user experience.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a power supply control method applied to a knob assembly; the knob assembly includes a knob; the knob includes a photovoltaic module, a rechargeable energy storage unit, and a control unit; the method is executed by the control unit and includes: Power is drawn from a rechargeable energy storage unit to maintain the operation of the control unit.

[0007] Monitor the output voltage of photovoltaic modules.

[0008] When the output voltage meets the preset charging conditions, the photovoltaic module is controlled to charge the rechargeable energy storage unit.

[0009] In an optional embodiment, the knob further includes a main power supply battery, and the rechargeable energy storage unit and the main power supply battery together power the control unit; the method further includes: Prioritize drawing power from rechargeable energy storage units.

[0010] When the energy of the rechargeable energy storage unit is lower than a preset threshold, it switches to drawing energy from the main power supply battery.

[0011] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: Get the operating status of the knob assembly.

[0012] When the running status is off, the control unit enters sleep mode.

[0013] When the running status is on, the control unit enters the normal operating mode.

[0014] In an optional embodiment, the knob includes a sensing unit; the knob assembly includes a reflective element; the knob is coupled to a corresponding first device, the reflective element is disposed on the surface of the first device opposite to the knob, and opposite to the sensing unit; the sensing unit is used to receive reflected signals from the reflective element; the step of acquiring the operating state of the knob assembly includes: In sleep mode, the sensing unit is woken up with a preset start-up cycle, and the detection signal generated by the reflective element is obtained from the sensing unit to determine whether the running state has switched from the off state to the on state.

[0015] In an optional embodiment, the reflective element is provided with a first reflective area and a second reflective area; the reflectivity of the first reflective area is different from that of the second reflective area; the first reflective area corresponds to the on state, and the second reflective area corresponds to the off state.

[0016] In an optional implementation, the knob further includes a communication unit; the method also includes: In normal operating mode, the operating status is sent to external devices via the communication unit.

[0017] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: Monitor the real-time voltage of the main power supply battery.

[0018] If the real-time voltage is lower than the preset low battery threshold, a low battery warning message will be generated.

[0019] Secondly, this application provides a knob assembly, including a knob and a reflective element; the knob includes a photovoltaic module, a rechargeable energy storage unit, and a control unit; the control unit is used to execute the power supply control method of any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0020] In an optional embodiment, the knob assembly further includes a sensing unit and a communication unit; the knob can be coupled to a corresponding first device, and a reflective element is disposed on the surface of the first device opposite to the knob and opposite to the sensing unit; the control unit communicates with an external device through the communication unit.

[0021] In an optional embodiment, the knob housing and the base plate are fastened together to form a receiving cavity; the receiving cavity includes a horizontally arranged annular circuit board; the top of the knob housing is made of transparent material; the circumferential sidewalls of the knob housing are made of opaque material; and a photovoltaic module is disposed on the inner side of the top of the knob housing.

[0022] This application provides a power supply control method and a knob assembly. By integrating a photovoltaic module and a rechargeable energy storage unit into the knob, the energy storage unit can be actively charged using ambient light. The power management strategy prioritizes the use of rechargeable energy and automatically switches to the backup battery when the battery is low. This ensures that the knob assembly can continuously and stably perform status detection and linkage with external devices, while significantly reducing the consumption of the primary main power supply battery. As a result, the overall battery life of the product is significantly extended, and the user experience is improved.

[0023] Other features and advantages of this application will be set forth in the following description and will be apparent in part from the description or may be learned by practicing the application. The objectives and other advantages of this application are realized and obtained through the structures particularly pointed out in the description, claims and drawings.

[0024] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, preferred embodiments are described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the knob assembly provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the base plate provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the knob provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the knob housing provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a ring circuit board provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a photovoltaic module provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the sensing unit provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a reflective element provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 9 A flowchart of the power supply control method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0027] Icons: 1-Knob; 2-Reflective element; 21-First reflective area; 22-Second reflective area; 31-Transmitting unit; 32-Receiving unit; 4-First device; 5-Valve stem; 6-Knob housing; 7-Base plate; 71-Emitting hole; 72-Receiving hole; 8-Ring circuit board; 9-Connection interface; 10-Communication unit; 11-Rechargeable energy storage unit; 12-Photovoltaic module; 13-Main power supply battery. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0029] To help those skilled in the art better understand this application, a brief introduction to its application scenarios and design concepts is provided.

[0030] In the current field of smart kitchen appliances, in order to achieve wireless linkage between the cooktop and the range hood, it is usually necessary to upgrade the cooktop knobs to be intelligent. Since the cooktop knob is an independent, rotatable component, it is difficult to connect it to a power source via wired means. Therefore, existing smart knob components generally use built-in disposable batteries (such as button batteries) as their power source.

[0031] However, this power supply method has limitations. On the one hand, the wireless communication module and sensing module inside the smart knob continuously consume power during operation, and even with low-power algorithms, the limited battery capacity still restricts the knob's battery life. On the other hand, when the battery is depleted, users must disassemble the knob assembly to replace the battery, which not only increases maintenance costs but also reduces the ease of use of smart products. Furthermore, existing knob designs typically do not consider utilizing solar energy resources in the kitchen environment, resulting in the waste of this clean energy.

[0032] Based on this, this application provides a power supply control method and a knob assembly, which integrates a photovoltaic module and a rechargeable energy storage unit. By utilizing the abundant artificial or natural light in the kitchen environment, the photovoltaic module can continuously convert light energy into electrical energy and store it to power the control unit, communication unit, and sensing unit inside the knob, thereby reducing reliance on disposable batteries, extending the knob's lifespan, and even achieving maintenance-free operation under ideal lighting conditions. Simultaneously, this application places a ring-shaped circuit board horizontally inside the knob and positions the photovoltaic module on the top inner side of the knob's outer shell, utilizing the top surface of the knob—the position with the largest light-receiving area and least light obstruction—to ensure maximum photoelectric conversion efficiency. Furthermore, the design, combined with a transparent top shell, achieves efficient energy harvesting while maintaining the integrity and aesthetics of the knob's overall appearance.

[0033] To facilitate understanding of this embodiment, the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below.

[0034] This application provides a knob assembly, see embodiments thereof. Figure 1 The knob assembly provided in this application includes: a knob 1 and a reflective element 2; the knob 1 includes a photovoltaic module 12, a rechargeable energy storage unit 11 and a control unit; the control unit is used to execute the power supply control method of any of the aforementioned embodiments.

[0035] In one embodiment, the knob assembly further includes a sensing unit and a communication unit 10; the knob 1 can be coupled to a corresponding first device 4, and the reflective element 2 is disposed on the surface of the first device 4 opposite to the knob 1 and opposite to the sensing unit; the control unit communicates with an external device through the communication unit 10.

[0036] Here, knob 1 is configured to be coupled to a corresponding first device 4. In a preferred application scenario, the first device 4 is a gas stove, integrated stove, or other cooktop. (Refer to...) Figure 2 The bottom of the knob 1 is provided with a connection interface 9. The shape of the connection interface 9 matches the valve stem 5 of the first device 4, so that the knob 1 can be firmly installed on the valve stem 5 and rotate accordingly.

[0037] In one embodiment, the knob housing 6 and the base plate 7 of the knob 1 are fastened together to form a receiving cavity; the receiving cavity includes a horizontally arranged annular circuit board 8; the top of the knob housing 6 is made of transparent material; the circumferential sidewalls of the knob housing 6 are made of opaque material; and the photovoltaic module 12 is disposed on the inner side of the top of the knob housing 6.

[0038] Here, refer to Figure 3 The knob 1 includes a knob housing 6 and a base plate 7. The knob housing 6 and the base plate 7 are fastened together by means of snaps, threads or adhesives, thereby forming a closed or semi-closed receiving cavity between the two.

[0039] Reference Figure 4 The top of the knob housing 6 is made of a transparent or semi-transparent material, such as transparent acrylic, polycarbonate (PC), or glass, to allow ambient light (such as kitchen lighting or natural light) to penetrate the top of the housing and enter the cavity. The circumferential sidewalls of the knob housing 6 are preferably made of an opaque material, such as plastic or stainless steel with a metallic paint finish, to maintain the overall visual texture of the knob 1 and conceal the internal electronic components.

[0040] Reference Figure 5 An annular circuit board 8 is provided inside the receiving cavity of the knob 1. In order to accommodate the flat internal space of the knob 1 and maximize the use of light entering from the top, the annular circuit board 8 is arranged in a horizontal direction, that is, the surface of the circuit board is parallel to the plane of the base plate 7.

[0041] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 3 The photovoltaic module 12 is disposed on the top inner side of the knob housing 6. The photovoltaic module 12 can be a flexible photovoltaic thin film or a rigid solar cell. The photovoltaic module 12 is fixed to the inner surface of the transparent top by adhesive or snap-fit, so that its photosensitive surface faces upward and directly receives ambient light that penetrates the top of the housing.

[0042] Reference Figure 5 The cavity also houses a rechargeable energy storage unit 11, which includes a power conversion board. The power conversion board is electrically connected to the ring circuit board 8, or the power conversion board is directly part of the ring circuit board 8. In a preferred arrangement, the power conversion board is mounted parallel to or stacked on the ring circuit board 8. The rechargeable energy storage unit 11 is mounted on the power conversion board or the ring circuit board 8. The rechargeable energy storage unit 11 can be a lithium-ion battery, a lithium polymer battery, or a supercapacitor, etc. (Refer to...) Figure 3 The photovoltaic module 12 is connected to the power conversion plate through wires or flexible contacts, converting the collected light energy into electrical energy, which is then stored in the rechargeable energy storage unit 11 after being regulated by the power conversion circuit.

[0043] In addition, to ensure normal operation in the absence of sunlight or when the energy storage unit is depleted, refer to Figure 5 The cavity can also house a main power supply battery 13 (such as a button cell battery). The main power supply battery 13 is mounted in a battery holder on the ring circuit board 8 as a backup or basic power source.

[0044] Reference Figure 5 The ring circuit board 8 also integrates or is equipped with a control unit (not shown in the figure), a communication unit 10, and a sensing unit.

[0045] The control unit is typically a microcontroller, and it is electrically connected to the photovoltaic module 12, energy storage unit, main power supply battery 13, communication unit 10, and sensing unit.

[0046] The communication unit 10 is used to establish a wireless communication connection between the knob 1 and an external device (such as a range hood). The communication unit 10 is preferably a Bluetooth Low Energy module.

[0047] The sensing unit is used to detect the rotation state of knob 1. The sensing unit includes a transmitting unit 31 and a receiving unit 32. (See reference...) Figure 7 The transmitting unit 31 and the receiving unit 32 are mounted on the bottom surface of the annular circuit board 8, facing vertically downwards. (See reference...) Figure 2 The base plate 7 has an emission hole 71 and a receiving hole 72 at the corresponding positions, so that infrared light can be emitted and returned.

[0048] The reflective element 2 is disposed on the surface of the first device 4 opposite to the knob 1. The reflective element 2 is a ring-shaped sticker or gasket attached to the cooktop panel and surrounding the valve stem 5.

[0049] Reference Figure 8 The reflective element 2 has regions with different optical properties, such as a first reflective region 21 and a second reflective region 22. The first reflective region 21 corresponds to the on state of the first device 4 and has a higher reflectivity (e.g., a white area). The second reflective region 22 corresponds to the off state of the first device 4 and has a lower reflectivity (e.g., a black area).

[0050] When knob 1 is rotated, the internal sensing unit moves accordingly, scanning the reflective element 2 below. Based on changes in the intensity of the received reflected signal, the sensing unit identifies whether knob 1 is currently on or off. After obtaining this status, the control unit sends control commands to external devices via communication unit 10.

[0051] Based on the above embodiments, this application provides a power supply control method applied to a knob assembly. The knob assembly includes a knob; the knob includes a photovoltaic module, a rechargeable energy storage unit, and a control unit; the method is executed by the control unit, as described above. Figure 9 The power supply control method provided in this application includes: Step S101: Obtain electrical energy from the rechargeable energy storage unit to maintain the operation of the control unit.

[0052] Here, the power output of the rechargeable energy storage unit is connected to the power input of the control unit and other loads (such as communication modules and sensing modules) via a power management circuit (such as a voltage regulator LDO or a DC-DC converter). The control unit continuously or intermittently draws power from the rechargeable energy storage unit to maintain its different operating modes, including: 1. Normal operating mode: When the user operates the knob or the system conducts wireless communication, the control unit obtains sufficient operating current to perform logic operations and data transmission.

[0053] 2. Sleep or standby mode: During periods of inactivity, the control unit draws only the small current (i.e., quiescent current) required to maintain its internal clock, register state, or interrupt response circuitry, in order to minimize power consumption.

[0054] This ensures that the knob assembly can maintain its function by relying on previously stored electrical energy even in low-light or nighttime environments.

[0055] Step S102: Monitor the output voltage of the photovoltaic module.

[0056] Here, photovoltaic modules (such as flexible photovoltaic films or rigid solar panels) are arranged on the light-receiving surface of the knob (such as the top or side wall) to collect ambient light energy in real time.

[0057] The control unit uses its integrated analog-to-digital converter (ADC) interface to sample the output voltage of the photovoltaic (PV) module. To prevent excessive power consumption during monitoring, this monitoring is typically intermittent. The control unit can wake up the ADC interface to read the voltage value according to a preset first sampling period (e.g., once per second or once per minute). The sampling circuit may also include a voltage divider resistor network to adapt the high voltage of the PV module to the control unit's detection range.

[0058] Step S103: When the output voltage meets the preset charging conditions, control the photovoltaic module to charge the rechargeable energy storage unit.

[0059] Here, the preset charging conditions can be set so that the output voltage of the photovoltaic module is higher than the current terminal voltage of the rechargeable energy storage unit, or higher than the minimum start-up voltage of the charging management circuit. This means that the ambient light intensity is sufficient to enable charging.

[0060] Once the conditions are met, the control unit outputs a control signal (such as a high-level or PWM signal) to activate the charging control switch located between the photovoltaic module and the energy storage unit, or to enable the dedicated charging management chip. At this time, current flows from the photovoltaic module to the energy storage unit, converting light energy into chemical energy or electric field energy for storage.

[0061] The control unit can also monitor the energy storage unit's charge level. If the energy storage unit is fully charged (reaching saturation voltage), even if the photovoltaic output voltage is high (meeting the aforementioned voltage conditions), the control unit will forcibly disconnect the charging circuit to implement overcharge protection and prevent damage to the energy storage unit. Conversely, if the photovoltaic voltage is below the threshold (e.g., on cloudy days or when the photovoltaic system is shaded), the control unit will disconnect the control circuit to prevent reverse current flow.

[0062] In one embodiment, the knob also includes a main power supply battery, and the rechargeable energy storage unit and the main power supply battery together power the control unit.

[0063] Here, the knob assembly houses a main power supply battery (such as a disposable button battery) as a backup power source for the rechargeable energy storage unit. The control unit is electrically connected to the output of the main power supply battery via its integrated analog-to-digital converter interface.

[0064] The power system inside the knob consists of two parts: a rechargeable energy storage unit (such as a lithium polymer battery or supercapacitor) connected to the photovoltaic module, and an independent main power supply battery (such as a disposable button battery). The control unit manages the distribution of these two power sources.

[0065] The method also includes the following steps S201-S202.

[0066] Step S201: Prioritize obtaining electrical energy from the rechargeable energy storage unit.

[0067] Here, the control unit switches the power supply path to the rechargeable energy storage unit by default. In daily use, as long as there is sufficient ambient light or sufficient previously stored electrical energy, all operating current of the control unit, sensing unit, and communication unit of the knob assembly is provided by the rechargeable energy storage unit.

[0068] Step S202: When the energy of the rechargeable energy storage unit is lower than a preset threshold, switch to obtaining energy from the main power supply battery.

[0069] Here, the control unit monitors the terminal voltage of the rechargeable energy storage unit in real time or periodically through an analog-to-digital conversion interface.

[0070] A preset threshold is set (e.g., 3.3V or 3.0V, depending on the circuit's minimum operating voltage).

[0071] When the voltage of the rechargeable energy storage unit is detected to be higher than the preset threshold, the photovoltaic power supply path is kept on.

[0072] When the voltage drops below a preset threshold (which may occur when the system is in a dark environment for a long time or when the photovoltaic modules are shaded and cannot keep up with demand), the control unit determines that the rechargeable energy storage unit is insufficient to maintain stable system operation. At this time, the control unit immediately outputs a control signal to drive the power switching circuit (e.g., an electronic switch composed of MOSFETs (metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors) or a power management chip).

[0073] The switching action involves disconnecting or isolating the power supply path of the rechargeable energy storage unit while simultaneously connecting the power supply path of the main power battery. To prevent system power failure and reset during switching, a voltage-regulating capacitor is typically connected in parallel in the power supply circuit to ensure a smooth transition during the switching process.

[0074] Furthermore, to avoid frequent power fluctuations near the threshold, the control unit incorporates a hysteresis comparison strategy during switching. That is, once switched to the main power supply battery, the control unit will only switch back to the rechargeable energy storage unit when the voltage of the rechargeable energy storage unit rises back above the switching threshold plus the hysteresis voltage (e.g., 3.0V + 0.2V). This ensures that priority for clean energy is only restored after sufficient solar energy has accumulated.

[0075] In another implementation, when the control unit anticipates that a high-power operation (such as starting Bluetooth to transmit data) is about to be performed, if it detects that the transient output capability of the rechargeable energy storage unit is insufficient (increased internal resistance or voltage drop too fast), even if the power display is still adequate, the control unit will temporarily switch to the main power supply battery with lower internal resistance and more stable output for auxiliary power supply, and then switch back after the high-power operation is completed.

[0076] In one embodiment, the method further includes the following steps S301-S303.

[0077] Step S301: Obtain the operating status of the knob assembly.

[0078] Here, the operating status is usually defined based on the physical position of the knob body.

[0079] The off state corresponds to the stove being off or in the zero position. In this state, the user is not performing any cooking operations, and the knob assembly is in standby mode.

[0080] The "on" state corresponds to any operating position of the stove, such as ignition, low flame, medium flame, or high flame. In this state, the user is using the stove, and the knob assembly needs to remain active to respond to adjustments or maintain linkage.

[0081] Step S302: When the running state is off, the control unit is put into sleep mode.

[0082] Here, once the control unit confirms that the knob is in the off position (for example, after multiple consecutive checks confirming that it is in the zero position), the control unit automatically switches to sleep mode to save power.

[0083] In sleep mode, the control unit cuts off power to communication units (such as Bluetooth), unnecessary sensor circuits, and high-power peripherals such as indicator lights, or puts them into a standby state with minimal power consumption. It reduces the microcontroller's clock frequency or initiates sleep mode via instruction, keeping only the most basic timers or external interrupt response circuits active to maintain extremely low quiescent current at the microamp level.

[0084] Step S303: When the running state is on, the control unit is put into normal operating mode.

[0085] Here, once the control unit detects that the knob has left the off position (i.e., the user has started to rotate the knob), it immediately wakes up from the sleep mode and enters the normal operation mode.

[0086] In normal operating mode, the control unit resumes full-speed operation, activates the communication unit to establish or restore wireless connection, and increases the sampling frequency of the sensing unit to ensure real-time and sensitive response to every fire control operation by the user and timely processing of data interaction.

[0087] In one embodiment, the knob includes a sensing unit; the knob assembly includes a reflective element; the knob is coupleable to a corresponding first device, the reflective element is disposed on the surface of the first device opposite to the knob, and opposite to the sensing unit; the sensing unit is used to receive reflected signals from the reflective element. The step of obtaining the operating state of the knob assembly includes: In sleep mode, the sensing unit is woken up with a preset start-up cycle, and the detection signal generated by the reflective element is obtained from the sensing unit to determine whether the running state has switched from the off state to the on state.

[0088] Here, in order to be able to sense user operations even in sleep mode, the control unit uses an internal low-power timer to generate a wake-up interrupt every preset time interval (i.e., the startup cycle, such as every 500 milliseconds or 1 second).

[0089] Within a very short time window (e.g., tens of milliseconds) when the interrupt is triggered, the control unit temporarily supplies power to the sensing unit.

[0090] The activated sensing unit emits a detection signal. The detection signal shines onto the reflective element below and is reflected. The sensing unit receives the reflected signal and converts it into a detection signal.

[0091] The control unit reads the detection signal. If the characteristics of the detection signal still match the characteristics of the off state (e.g., low reflection intensity, corresponding to a black area), it means that the user has not operated. The control unit shuts down the sensing unit, re-enters sleep mode, and waits for the next cycle.

[0092] If the detection signal characteristics change abruptly, matching the characteristics of the on state (e.g., a sudden increase in reflection intensity, corresponding to the white area), it indicates that the knob has been rotated. At this point, the control unit determines that the operating state has been switched and immediately triggers the full wake-up process, entering normal operating mode.

[0093] In one embodiment, the reflective element is provided with a first reflective area and a second reflective area; the reflectivity of the first reflective area is different from that of the second reflective area; the first reflective area corresponds to the on state, and the second reflective area corresponds to the off state.

[0094] Here, the reflective element is physically divided into a first reflective area and a second reflective area. The first and second reflective areas achieve differences in physical optical properties by using different materials, coating colors, or surface textures; that is, the reflectivity of the first reflective area is significantly different from that of the second reflective area.

[0095] The first reflective zone corresponds to the on / off state and is located in the area corresponding to the knob's rotation stroke (such as ignition and various power levels). This area preferably uses a high-reflectivity material (such as white or mirror) to generate a strong reflective signal, ensuring that the system can sensitively detect the on / off action and maintain normal operation.

[0096] The second reflective zone corresponds to the off state and is located in the area corresponding to the zero position (off position) of the knob. This area is preferably made of a low-reflectivity material (such as black or light-absorbing material) to generate a very weak reflective signal. This not only serves as a signal characteristic for being off but also helps reduce the power consumption of the sensing unit during sleep detection.

[0097] In one embodiment, the knob further includes a communication unit. The method also includes: In normal operating mode, the operating status is sent to external devices via the communication unit.

[0098] Here, the knob also includes a communication unit. When the control unit switches to normal operating mode, the control communication unit starts working.

[0099] During normal operation, the control unit continuously encapsulates the current operating status into data packets, either continuously or when the status changes. These data packets are then sent to external devices (such as range hoods) via a wireless link established by the communication unit.

[0100] Once the external device receives this signal, it can automatically start or adjust the fan speed to achieve linkage between the range hood and the stove. When the user turns off the stove (returns to the off state), the communication unit sends a shutdown command. After a delay or confirmation of successful transmission, the control unit switches back to sleep mode and shuts down the communication unit to save power.

[0101] In one embodiment, the method further includes the following steps S401-S402.

[0102] Step S401: Monitor the real-time voltage of the main power supply battery.

[0103] Here, the control unit collects the terminal voltage of the main power supply battery according to a predetermined strategy.

[0104] The monitoring method can be at least one of the following methods.

[0105] 1. The control unit samples the voltage of the main power battery at relatively long time intervals (e.g., every 24 hours or each wake-up communication).

[0106] 2. When the control unit executes the power switching logic and switches from the rechargeable energy storage unit to the main power supply battery, it immediately performs a voltage sampling to assess the health status of the backup power supply.

[0107] 3. In order to obtain a more accurate voltage value, the control unit can sample the voltage at the moment the communication unit transmits the signal (i.e., when the battery is under load). The real-time voltage measured at this time can better reflect the true remaining capacity of the battery.

[0108] Step S402: If the real-time voltage is less than the preset low battery threshold, generate a low battery warning message.

[0109] Here, the control unit's memory has a preset low-charge threshold. The low-charge threshold is set according to the discharge characteristic curve of the main power supply battery. For example, for a lithium manganese button cell battery with a nominal voltage of 3.0V, this threshold may be set to 2.6V or 2.5V, indicating that the battery is almost depleted and can only maintain operation for a very short time.

[0110] The control unit compares the collected real-time voltage with the low power threshold.

[0111] If the real-time voltage is lower than the low battery threshold, the control unit determines that the main power supply battery is low on power. At this time, the control unit generates a low battery warning message.

[0112] The processing and transmission methods for this warning information include, but are not limited to: 1. Communication Reporting: The control unit wakes up the communication unit, constructs a special data packet containing a low battery alarm status bit, or sets a low battery flag in a regular operating status data packet, and sends it to an external device (such as a range hood). After receiving the packet, the range hood can remind the user to replace the knob battery by sounding a buzzer, flashing an indicator light, or pushing a message to the user's mobile phone via the network.

[0113] 2. Local prompt: If the knob assembly itself is equipped with a low-power indicator light, the control unit can control the indicator light to flash at a specific frequency to directly provide a visual warning to the user.

[0114] The computer program product provided in this application includes a computer-readable storage medium storing program code. The instructions included in the program code can be used to execute the methods described in the preceding method embodiments. For specific implementation details, please refer to the method embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0115] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working process of the system and apparatus described above can be referred to the corresponding process in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0116] Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0117] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0118] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0119] Finally, it should be noted that the above-described embodiments are merely specific implementations of this application, used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. The scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that any person skilled in the art can still modify or easily conceive of changes to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features, within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application. Such modifications, changes, or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and should all be covered within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A power supply control method, characterized in that, Applied to a knob assembly; the knob assembly includes a knob; the knob includes a photovoltaic module, a rechargeable energy storage unit, and a control unit; the method is executed by the control unit and includes: Electrical energy is obtained from the rechargeable energy storage unit to maintain the operation of the control unit; Monitor the output voltage of the photovoltaic module; When the output voltage meets the preset charging conditions, the photovoltaic module is controlled to charge the rechargeable energy storage unit.

2. The power supply control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The knob also includes a main power supply battery, and the rechargeable energy storage unit and the main power supply battery together power the control unit; the method further includes: Power is preferentially obtained from the rechargeable energy storage unit; When the energy of the rechargeable energy storage unit is lower than a preset threshold, it switches to obtain energy from the main power supply battery.

3. The power supply control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain the operating status of the knob assembly; When the operating state is off, the control unit enters sleep mode; When the operating state is "on", the control unit enters normal operating mode.

4. The power supply control method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The knob includes a sensing unit; the knob assembly includes a reflective element; the knob is coupled to a corresponding first device, and the reflective element is disposed on the surface of the first device opposite to the knob and opposite to the sensing unit; The sensing unit is used to receive reflected signals from the reflective element; the step of obtaining the operating status of the knob assembly includes: In the sleep mode, the sensing unit is woken up with a preset start-up cycle, and the detection signal generated by the reflective element is obtained from the sensing unit to determine whether the operating state has switched from the off state to the on state.

5. The power supply control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The reflective element is provided with a first reflective area and a second reflective area; the reflectivity of the first reflective area is different from that of the second reflective area; the first reflective area corresponds to the on state, and the second reflective area corresponds to the off state.

6. The power supply control method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The knob further includes a communication unit; the method further includes: In the normal operating mode, the operating status is sent to an external device through the communication unit.

7. The power supply control method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: Monitor the real-time voltage of the main power supply battery; If the real-time voltage is less than the preset low battery threshold, a low battery warning message is generated.

8. A knob assembly, characterized in that, It includes a knob and a reflective element; the knob includes a photovoltaic module, a rechargeable energy storage unit, and a control unit; the control unit is used to execute the power supply control method according to any one of claims 1-7.

9. The knob assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The knob assembly further includes a sensing unit and a communication unit; the knob can be coupled to a corresponding first device, and the reflective element is disposed on the surface of the first device opposite to the knob and opposite to the sensing unit; the control unit communicates with external devices through the communication unit.

10. The knob assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The knob housing and base plate are fastened together to form a receiving cavity; the receiving cavity includes a horizontally arranged annular circuit board; the top of the knob housing is made of transparent material; the circumferential sidewalls of the knob housing are made of opaque material; the photovoltaic module is disposed on the inner side of the top of the knob housing.

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