Control method of knob assembly and knob assembly

Abstract

The invention provides a control method of a knob assembly and the knob assembly, and the method comprises the steps: responding to a condition that a receiving unit is triggered by a reflection signal, and reducing the transmitting signal intensity of a transmitting unit, so as to enable the transmitting signal intensity to be close to a corresponding transmitting signal intensity threshold value; the transmitting signal strength of the transmitting unit is maintained at a position slightly higher than a transmitting signal strength threshold value; wherein the receiving unit is not triggered by the reflected signal when the intensity of the transmitted signal is lower than the intensity threshold value of the transmitted signal. In the mode, the luminous intensity of the transmitting unit can be automatically adjusted, so that the overall power consumption of the transmitting unit is reduced, and the service life of the power supply unit is prolonged.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] With the development of smart kitchen appliances, the linkage function between cooktops and range hoods is becoming increasingly common. Users expect the range hood to automatically start after the cooktop is ignited, enabling automatic smoke extraction and simplifying the operation process. Especially in open-flame cooktops, the knob ignition method is widely used, and the knob component has become an important carrier for realizing the linkage function.

[0003] In existing technologies, some knob components use a built-in infrared detection module to identify the ignition status of the cooktop and communicate with the range hood via Bluetooth to achieve coordinated control. However, to ensure timely identification, the infrared detection module typically needs to operate continuously, resulting in high power consumption and insufficient battery life for knob components powered by button batteries. Especially in scenarios with frequent use, button batteries need to be replaced frequently, affecting user experience and product usability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the purpose of this application is to provide a control method and a knob assembly that can automatically adjust the working intensity of the infrared detection module according to the actual installation environment, thereby reducing the overall power consumption of the infrared detection module, extending the life of the button battery, reducing the frequency of battery replacement by the user, and improving the stability of the product and the user experience.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a control method for a knob assembly, applied to a knob assembly including a knob and a reflective element. The knob includes a communication unit, a sensing unit, a power supply unit, and a control unit. 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. The knob establishes a communication connection with a second device through the communication unit. The sensing unit includes a transmitting unit and a receiving unit. The receiving unit is used to receive a reflected signal emitted by the transmitting unit and reflected by the reflective element. The power supply unit is used to supply power to the knob. The control unit is used to execute the method, including: In response to the receiving unit being triggered by the reflected signal, the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit is reduced so that the transmission signal strength approaches the corresponding transmission signal strength threshold.

[0006] The transmitting unit maintains the transmitted signal strength at a position slightly above the transmitted signal strength threshold; wherein, if the transmitted signal strength is below the transmitted signal strength threshold, the receiving unit will not be triggered by the reflected signal.

[0007] In an optional implementation, the step of reducing the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit includes: By controlling the signal duty cycle of the transmitting unit, the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit is reduced.

[0008] In an optional implementation, the step of reducing the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit includes: By controlling the transmission power of the transmitting unit, the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit is reduced.

[0009] In an optional implementation, the step of reducing the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit by controlling the signal duty cycle of the transmitting unit includes: Set the initial signal duty cycle of the transmitting unit to the maximum duty cycle.

[0010] The initial signal duty cycle is gradually reduced based on a preset duty cycle reduction rule until the receiving unit is no longer triggered by the reflected signal.

[0011] The minimum duty cycle is defined as the signal duty cycle at which the receiving unit will not be triggered by the reflected signal.

[0012] The target duty cycle is determined by the sum of the minimum duty cycle and the preset safety margin value.

[0013] The step of maintaining the transmitted signal strength of the transmitting unit at a position slightly higher than the transmitted signal strength threshold includes: The control launch unit operates according to the target's duty cycle.

[0014] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: A start signal is sent to the transmitting unit at preset time intervals to control the transmitting unit to transmit a signal at a target duty cycle, so that the transmitting unit enters the working state.

[0015] Determine whether the reflected signal is the same as the previous historical reflected signal.

[0016] If the reflected signal is different from the previous historical reflected signal, the operating state of the first device is determined to have changed according to the preset mapping relationship between the reflected signal and the operating state.

[0017] The operating status of the first device is sent to the second device through the communication unit, so that the second device can respond to the operating status; wherein, the reflected signal is used to determine the operating status of the first device.

[0018] In an optional implementation, after the step of sending a start signal to the transmitting unit at preset time intervals, the method further includes: The duration of the current detection cycle is calculated based on the length of time during which the same reflected signal is continuously detected within the current detection cycle.

[0019] If the duration reaches a preset duration threshold, a standby signal is sent to the transmitting unit to make the transmitting unit enter a low-power state.

[0020] In an optional implementation, the operating state includes a first operating state and a second operating state; 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 first operating state, and the second reflective area corresponds to the second operating state.

[0021] When the first device is in the first operating state, the sensing unit is located above the first reflection area, and the reflected signal corresponds to the intensity of the first reflected signal.

[0022] When the first device is in the second operating state, the sensing unit is located above the second reflection area, and the reflected signal corresponds to the intensity of the second reflected signal; the intensity of the first reflected signal is different from the intensity of the second reflected signal.

[0023] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: Real-time monitoring of the remaining power supply unit.

[0024] Determine if the remaining battery power is below the preset battery power threshold.

[0025] If the remaining battery power is lower than the preset battery power threshold, a low battery warning signal is generated and sent to the second device via the communication unit.

[0026] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a knob assembly, including a knob and a reflective element. The knob includes a communication unit, a sensing unit, a power supply unit, and a control unit. The knob can be coupled to a corresponding first device. The reflective element is disposed on the surface of the first device opposite to the knob. The knob establishes a communication connection with a second device through the communication unit. The sensing unit includes a transmitting unit and a receiving unit. The receiving unit is used to receive a reflected signal emitted by the transmitting unit and reflected by the reflective element. The power supply unit is used to supply power to the knob. The control unit is used to execute the control method of the knob assembly of any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0027] 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.

[0028] This application provides a control method and a knob assembly for a knob assembly. By controlling the unit to automatically reduce the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit in response to the triggering of the receiving unit, the unit is kept at a target position slightly above the trigger threshold. Combined with an intermittent start detection mechanism at preset time intervals, the knob assembly can adaptively operate with the lowest effective power consumption according to the distance between the infrared pair and the reflector in the actual installation. This avoids energy waste caused by the infrared emitting tube due to fixed high-intensity emission or continuous operation. Thus, while ensuring accurate capture of changes in the operating status of the first device and timely linkage with the second device, the average operating current and overall power consumption of the sensing unit are reduced, thereby solving the problem of short battery life of the battery-powered knob assembly and extending the single-use lifespan of the power supply unit.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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

[0031] 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.

[0032] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the knob assembly provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the base plate of the knob provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit board provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the sensing unit provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a positioning marker provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a reflective element provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating the control method for the knob assembly provided in this application embodiment.

[0033] Icons: 1-Knob; 2-Reflective element; 21-First reflective area; 22-Second reflective area; 3-Sensing unit; 4-First device; 5-Knob connecting rod; 31-Transmitting unit; 32-Receiving unit; 6-Knob housing; 7-Base plate; 8-Circuit board; 9-Connection interface. Detailed Implementation

[0034] 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.

[0035] To facilitate understanding of this embodiment, the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below.

[0036] In existing retrofittable smart knob assemblies, built-in batteries (such as button batteries) are typically used as power sources to achieve wireless communication and status detection functions. Among these, infrared photocell sensors are often used to detect the rotational position of the knob due to their non-contact and fast response characteristics.

[0037] The emission intensity of an infrared emitter typically increases with increasing drive current, but its power consumption also increases accordingly. However, in practical applications, the height of the knob connecting rod varies significantly between different brands or models of cooktops. This results in a variable vertical distance between the infrared detection module mounted at the bottom of the knob and the reflective patch attached to the cooktop panel.

[0038] To ensure stable detection of reflected signals across various installation spacings, existing technologies typically employ infrared emitters that emit at a fixed high power to cover the maximum possible spacing requirements. This means that in scenarios with smaller installation spacings where detection could be triggered with lower power, the infrared emitter remains in a high-power state, resulting in unnecessary waste of battery energy. Furthermore, if the sensor operates continuously, it will also consume power, leading to short battery life and requiring frequent battery replacements.

[0039] This application provides a control method and a knob assembly for a knob assembly. During the initialization or calibration phase, the emission signal strength of the infrared emitting unit is gradually reduced from high to low until a critical point is found where the receiving unit cannot be triggered. Based on this critical point, plus a small safety margin, the optimal target emission strength for the current installation environment is determined, allowing each knob assembly to automatically find the minimum energy consumption point required to maintain normal operation based on the actual height of its installed knob connecting rod. Regardless of the stove's structure, the knobs consume only just enough power, eliminating waste caused by fixed high-power emission. Simultaneously, combined with an intermittent start-up detection mechanism, the average operating current is minimized while ensuring the speed of the stove-range linkage response, thereby extending the lifespan of the power supply unit and improving the user experience.

[0040] After introducing the application scenarios and design concepts of this application, the technical solutions provided by this application will be described in detail below.

[0041] 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 communication unit, a sensing unit 3, a power supply unit, and a control unit. The knob 1 can be coupled to a corresponding first device 4. The reflective element 2 is disposed on the surface of the first device 4 opposite to the knob 1. The knob 1 establishes a communication connection with a second device through the communication unit. The sensing unit 3 includes a transmitting unit 31 and a receiving unit 32. The receiving unit 32 is used to receive the reflected signal emitted by the transmitting unit 31 and reflected by the reflective element 2. The power supply unit is used to supply power to the knob 1. The control unit is used to execute the control method of the knob assembly.

[0042] Here, refer to Figure 1 The knob 1 can be coupled to the corresponding first device 4. In practical applications, the first device 4 is typically a gas stove or integrated stove. (Refer to...) Figure 2 The base plate 7 of the knob 1 is provided with a connection interface 9, which matches the knob connecting rod 5 on the first device 4. With this design, the user can remove the original ordinary knob 1 of the first device 4 and directly replace it with the knob assembly provided in this embodiment, thereby achieving intelligent linkage without replacing the entire stove. The knob 1 typically includes a knob housing 6 and a base plate 7, which are fastened together to form an internal receiving cavity for installing various electronic components.

[0043] Reference Figure 3 The knob 1 includes a knob housing 6 and a base plate 7, which are fastened together to form an internal receiving cavity. A circuit board 8 is also housed inside the knob 1. The control unit, communication unit, and sensing unit 3 can all be integrated onto the circuit board 8.

[0044] The power supply unit provides operating power to the various electronic modules inside the knob 1. Considering that the knob assembly is usually used as an independent accessory and needs to operate wirelessly, the power supply unit preferably uses a battery, such as a small button cell battery. The power supply unit can also be a lithium battery or a capacitor. The power supply unit is electrically connected to the communication unit, the sensing unit 3, and the control unit.

[0045] The communication unit is used to establish a wireless communication connection between the knob 1 and the second device. The second device is typically a range hood. The communication unit preferably uses a low-power Bluetooth module, which sends the operating status of the first device 4 to the second device via a preset communication protocol to trigger corresponding actions of the second device (such as automatically activating the exhaust fan). In other embodiments, it can also be Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity), ZigBee, NFC (Near Field Communication), or any other wireless technology suitable for near-field communication.

[0046] Reference Figure 4 The sensing unit 3 includes a transmitting unit 31 and a receiving unit 32. The transmitting unit 31 is preferably an infrared emitting tube capable of emitting a detection signal (such as infrared light). The transmitting unit 31 is configured to adjust its emitted signal strength in response to commands from the control unit. For example, the driving circuit of the transmitting unit 31 supports pulse width modulation dimming or current adjustment, allowing the emitted signal strength to be continuously or progressively adjusted from high to low. The receiving unit 32 is preferably an infrared receiving tube for receiving signals emitted by the transmitting unit 31 and reflected back by external objects. The sensing unit 3 is located at the bottom of the knob 1, with the transmitting unit 31 and the receiving unit 32 spaced apart and both facing the mounting plane below the knob 1.

[0047] The control unit preferably employs a microcontroller. The control unit is connected to the communication unit, sensing unit 3, and power supply unit, respectively. The control unit is responsible not only for processing sensing signals and communication data, but is also configured to dynamically adjust the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit 31 based on feedback from whether the receiving unit 32 is triggered during operation. For example, the control unit can control the transmitting unit 31 to gradually reduce its transmission power until the minimum transmission strength required to maintain effective detection is found, thereby minimizing the energy consumption of the power supply unit while ensuring detection reliability.

[0048] Reference Figure 5 A positioning mark is provided on the knob housing 6 to indicate the current rotation position of the knob 1. The positioning mark is usually a scale or raised mark, used to indicate the current rotation angle position of the knob 1, thereby indirectly indicating the operating status of the first device 4. The positioning mark is consistent with the user's operation direction, and can guide the user to rotate the knob 1 through visual or tactile means.

[0049] Specifically, a positioning mark is set on the surface of the knob housing 6, for reference. Figure 2 The line connecting the transmitting unit 31 and the receiving unit 32 is arranged parallel to the positioning mark. That is, the arrangement direction of the sensing unit 3 inside the knob 1 is consistent with the direction of the external positioning mark, so that the scanning area of ​​the sensing unit 3 on the reflective element 2 and the indicating angle of the positioning mark are in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0050] In one embodiment, the reflective element 2 is provided with a first reflective area 21 and a second reflective area 22; the reflectivity of the first reflective area 21 is different from that of the second reflective area 22.

[0051] Here, refer to Figure 6 The reflective element 2 is disposed on the surface of the first device 4 opposite to the knob 1. Specifically, the reflective element 2 can be a ring-shaped sticker or pad, which is attached to the operation panel of the first device 4 and surrounds the knob connecting rod 5. The position of the reflective element 2 corresponds to the sensing unit 3 at the bottom of the knob 1 so that the sensing unit 3 can detect the reflective properties of the surface of the reflective element 2. In other embodiments, the reflective element 2 can also be a coating directly coated or printed on the panel of the first device 4, or a region with different reflectivity formed by special treatment of the panel of the first device 4 itself.

[0052] To facilitate status recognition, the reflective element 2 is provided with areas having different physical properties, specifically including a first reflective area 21 and a second reflective area 22. The reflectivity of the first reflective area 21 is significantly different from that of the second reflective area 22. For example, the first reflective area 21 can be made of black or light-absorbing material, corresponding to a lower reflectivity; the second reflective area 22 can be made of white or reflective material, corresponding to a higher reflectivity. During installation, the first reflective area 21 typically corresponds to the off position of the first device 4, while the second reflective area 22 corresponds to the on position of the first device 4.

[0053] When knob 1 is in the off position, sensing unit 3 faces the first reflective area 21 with low reflectivity, and the signal strength received by receiving unit 32 is extremely low, which the control unit uses to determine that the device is off. When knob 1 is rotated to the on position, sensing unit 3 moves to the second reflective area 22 with high reflectivity, and the signal strength received by receiving unit 32 increases and is triggered. At this time, the control unit can utilize the strong reflection characteristics of the high reflectivity area to perform adaptive adjustment of the transmission power, reducing the transmission intensity to just the critical level that can maintain triggering, thereby achieving energy-saving operation.

[0054] Based on the above embodiments, this application provides a control method for a knob assembly, which is applied to the knob assembly. The knob assembly includes a knob and a reflective element. The knob includes a communication unit, a sensing unit, a power supply unit, and a control unit. The knob can be coupled to a corresponding first device. The reflective element is disposed on the surface of the first device opposite to the knob. The knob establishes a communication connection with a second device through the communication unit. The sensing unit includes a transmitting unit and a receiving unit. The receiving unit is used to receive the reflected signal emitted by the transmitting unit and reflected by the reflective element.

[0055] Here, a knob assembly is mounted on a first device (e.g., a cooktop), with a sensing unit located at its bottom. A reflective element (e.g., a reflective sticker) is affixed to the panel of the first device. When the knob is rotated to the open position, the sensing unit faces the highly reflective area of ​​the reflective element. At this time, infrared light is reflected and received by the receiving unit, thereby triggering the receiving unit to generate a valid voltage level signal.

[0056] The power supply unit supplies power to the knob, and the control unit executes the method, see reference. Figure 7 The methods include: Step S101: In response to the receiving unit being triggered by the reflected signal, the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit is reduced so that the transmission signal strength approaches the corresponding transmission signal strength threshold.

[0057] Here, the self-calibration or initialization phase of the knob assembly can also be a dynamic adjustment process each time the knob switches from the off state to the on state.

[0058] When the user turns the knob to ignite the engine, the sensing unit moves to the high reflectivity area. At this time, if the transmitting unit emits a signal at the default maximum power, the receiving unit will be triggered by the strong reflected light signal and send a triggered signal (e.g., logic 1) to the control unit. Once the control unit detects this triggered signal, it will initiate a low-power calibration process.

[0059] Specific methods for reducing the strength of the transmitted signal may include: 1. Duty cycle adjustment: The control unit can reduce the average current of the transmitting unit by decreasing the duty cycle of the pulse width modulation signal driving the transmitting unit, thereby reducing the transmission intensity. For example, the initial duty cycle is set to 100% (full power), and then gradually reduced in preset steps (such as 1% or 5%).

[0060] 2. Current regulation: The control unit can also directly reduce the drive current flowing through the infrared emitting tube through a digital-to-analog converter or a variable resistor network.

[0061] 3. Algorithm optimization: The downsizing process is not limited to linear decrease. To speed up the calibration process, algorithms such as binary search can be used to quickly approximate the critical value.

[0062] Approaching the corresponding transmission signal strength threshold means that as the transmission intensity decreases, the reflected light received by the receiving unit becomes weaker and weaker. When the intensity drops to a certain critical point, the receiving unit will no longer be able to output a valid trigger signal (i.e., signal loss). This critical point is the transmission signal strength threshold. This threshold depends on factors such as the actual installation height between the knob and the cooktop panel, the reflectivity of the sticker, and the light transmittance of the light-transmitting cover.

[0063] Step S102: Maintain the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit at a position slightly higher than the transmission signal strength threshold; wherein, if the transmission signal strength is lower than the transmission signal strength threshold, the receiving unit will not be triggered by the reflected signal.

[0064] Here, during the downsampling process, once the control unit detects that the signal from the receiving unit has disappeared (i.e., the current transmission strength is below the threshold and cannot be triggered), the control unit will record the strength value at this time.

[0065] To ensure operational stability, this critical threshold cannot be directly used as the operating intensity, as changes in ambient light, device aging, or minor mechanical vibrations can all lead to signal instability. Therefore, the control unit adds a preset safety margin (e.g., increasing the duty cycle or current by 5%) to this transmitted signal strength threshold.

[0066] The control unit locks the emission intensity of the transmitting unit at an optimal operating point slightly above the threshold. During subsequent periodic testing or continuous operation, the transmitting unit will operate at this calibrated low power.

[0067] Based on this, regardless of whether the knob is installed on a stove with a longer knob connecting rod (larger spacing, requiring higher power) or on a stove with a shorter knob connecting rod (smaller spacing, requiring very low power), the control unit can automatically find the lowest energy consumption balance point in that specific environment.

[0068] In one embodiment, step S101, the step of lowering the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit, includes: By controlling the signal duty cycle of the transmitting unit, the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit is reduced.

[0069] Here, the emission intensity of the emitting unit (usually an infrared emitting diode) is closely related to its average drive current. By changing the duty cycle of the drive signal applied to the emitting unit, the average current flowing through the emitting unit can be effectively adjusted, thereby changing the emission intensity of the infrared light signal.

[0070] The control unit outputs a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal to the driving circuit of the transmitting unit through its output pin. Duty cycle refers to the proportion of the high-level duration within a pulse period. A larger duty cycle means a longer conduction time for the transmitting unit per unit time, resulting in a stronger transmitted signal; conversely, a smaller duty cycle results in a weaker transmitted signal.

[0071] During the low-power calibration process, the control unit can set the initial signal duty cycle to its maximum value (e.g., 1 or 100%), at which point the transmitting unit operates at maximum power to ensure that the receiving unit can be triggered. Subsequently, the control unit gradually reduces the duty cycle according to a preset stepping rule. For example, a fixed step size (e.g., decreasing by 0.01 or 1% each time) can be used. Each time the duty cycle is reduced, the control unit checks the status of the receiving unit until the receiving unit is no longer triggered.

[0072] In one embodiment, step S101, the step of lowering the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit, includes: By controlling the transmission power of the transmitting unit, the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit is reduced.

[0073] Here, the radiation intensity of the infrared emitting diode increases with the increase of the forward operating current. Therefore, in addition to adjusting the duty cycle, the transmitted signal strength can also be adjusted by directly changing the magnitude of the drive current.

[0074] The knob assembly circuitry includes adjustable current-limiting components (such as digital potentiometers, multiplexed resistor networks) or digital-to-analog converters. The control unit directly limits or changes the instantaneous current flowing through the transmitting unit by adjusting the resistance or output voltage of these components.

[0075] For example, at the start of calibration, the control unit outputs the maximum current to bring the transmitting unit to its maximum transmission power. Subsequently, the control unit gradually reduces the current value, thereby linearly or stepwise reducing the transmission power. When the current decreases to a certain value, causing the intensity of the emitted infrared light to be insufficient to be reflected by the reflective element and trigger the receiving unit, the control unit records the current current or power value as a critical threshold.

[0076] In one embodiment, the step of reducing the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit by controlling the signal duty cycle of the transmitting unit includes the following steps S201-S204.

[0077] Step S201: Set the initial signal duty cycle of the transmitting unit to the maximum duty cycle.

[0078] Here, at the start of calibration, the control unit sets the duty cycle of the pulse width modulation signal driving the transmitting unit to its maximum value (e.g., 1 or 100%). At this time, the transmitting unit emits infrared light at the maximum power allowed by its hardware, ensuring that in the initial stage, regardless of the distance between the knob and the cooktop panel, or the reflectivity of the reflective patch, as long as the two are in relative positions, the receiving unit can be reliably triggered.

[0079] Step S202: Gradually reduce the initial signal duty cycle based on a preset duty cycle reduction rule until the receiving unit is no longer triggered by the reflected signal.

[0080] Here, the control unit begins to reduce the duty cycle according to a preset rule. This rule can be a fixed-step decrease, such as reducing the duty cycle by 0.01 (i.e., 1%) in each cycle. After each reduction in duty cycle, the control unit immediately checks the output status of the receiving unit. If the receiving unit still outputs a triggered signal (e.g., remains high), it indicates that the current transmission strength is still strong enough, and the control unit continues to perform the reduction operation. This process continues in a loop until, after a certain reduction, the control unit detects that the output of the receiving unit has become untriggered (e.g., jumps to low), indicating that the transmission strength is no longer sufficient to generate a valid reflected signal.

[0081] Step S203: Determine the minimum duty cycle as the signal duty cycle when the receiving unit is not triggered by the reflected signal.

[0082] Here, when the receiving unit is no longer triggered and terminates, the control unit records the duty cycle value at this time. This value represents the critical point at which the system cannot maintain normal detection under the current specific physical installation spacing and reflection conditions, i.e., the minimum duty cycle or the limit duty cycle.

[0083] Step S204: The sum of the minimum duty cycle and the preset safety margin value is determined as the target duty cycle.

[0084] Here, to prevent operational instability caused by ambient light interference, battery voltage fluctuations, or component aging, the duty cycle at the aforementioned critical point cannot be used directly. Therefore, the control unit adds a preset safety margin value to the minimum duty cycle. This safety margin value is experimentally determined to ensure signal strength redundancy. The sum of these two values ​​constitutes the final target duty cycle.

[0085] Step S102, which involves maintaining the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit at a position slightly higher than the transmission signal strength threshold, includes: The control launch unit operates according to the target's duty cycle.

[0086] Here, the control unit locks the duty cycle of the pulse width modulation signal to the calculated target duty cycle, and controls the transmitting unit to perform subsequent continuous or intermittent transmission based on this parameter.

[0087] In one embodiment, the method further includes the following steps S301-S304.

[0088] Step S301: Send a start signal to the transmitting unit at a preset time interval to control the transmitting unit to transmit a transmission signal at a target duty cycle so that the transmitting unit enters the working state.

[0089] Here, to conserve battery power to the maximum extent, the control unit does not allow the transmitter unit to operate continuously. A sleep-wake cycle is preset, for example, every few seconds (such as 3 or 5 seconds) as a cycle. During sleep, the transmitter unit and most of the circuitry are in a powered-off or extremely low-power state.

[0090] When the timer reaches the preset time interval, the control unit generates a start signal. At this time, the control unit calls the target duty cycle parameter determined in the previous calibration process and drives the transmitting unit through pulse width modulation. The transmitting unit emits an infrared detection signal with a power intensity that just meets the current detection requirements, thus ensuring that even at the moment of wake-up detection, power consumption is limited to the necessary minimum level, avoiding the waste of excess power.

[0091] Step S302: Determine whether the reflected signal is the same as the previous historical reflected signal.

[0092] Here, when the transmitting unit is operating, the control unit reads the output status of the receiving unit. The output of the receiving unit is typically a level signal (e.g., a high level indicates that a reflection has been detected, and a low level indicates that no reflection has been detected).

[0093] The control unit's internal memory stores the previous historical reflection signal or the corresponding device status flag bit confirmed at the end of the last detection cycle. The control unit performs a logical comparison between the currently read real-time reflection signal and this historical signal.

[0094] If both are the same (for example, if it is always low, it means the stove is always off; or if it is always high, it means the stove is always burning), it means that the operating state of the device has not changed. The control unit can skip the subsequent communication operation and directly prepare to enter the next sleep mode, thereby reducing the power consumption of the communication unit.

[0095] Step S303: If the reflected signal is different from the previous historical reflected signal, determine that the operating state of the first device has changed according to the preset mapping relationship between the reflected signal and the operating state.

[0096] Here, if the two are different (e.g., a change from low level to high level, or a change from high level to low level), a state transition is determined. At this time, the control unit determines the current change based on a preset mapping relationship. For example, a signal changing from no reflection to reflection is mapped to an on / off state; a signal changing from reflection to no reflection is mapped to an off / extinguished state.

[0097] Step S304: The operating status of the first device is sent to the second device through the communication unit so that the second device can respond to the operating status; wherein, the reflected signal is used to determine the operating status of the first device.

[0098] Here, once a change in operating status is detected, the control unit immediately wakes up the communication unit. The communication unit establishes a connection with the second device (such as a range hood) or broadcasts a data packet containing the latest operating status. After receiving the signal containing the operating status, the second device executes corresponding actions, such as automatically turning on the fan or delaying the fan's shutdown, thereby achieving intelligent linkage between the range hood and the stove.

[0099] In one embodiment, after the step of sending a start signal to the transmitting unit at a preset time interval in step S301, the method further includes the following steps S401-S402.

[0100] Step S401: Calculate the duration of the current detection cycle based on the time length during which the same reflected signal is continuously detected within the current detection cycle.

[0101] Here, after each start signal is sent to wake up the transmitting unit, the timer inside the control unit starts running to count how long the transmitting unit has been working continuously, that is, the duration of the current detection cycle.

[0102] In practical applications, the response speed of infrared receiving units is very fast (typically on the order of microseconds or milliseconds). Therefore, in order to obtain stable detection results, the transmitting unit does not need to be turned on for a long time.

[0103] A "duration threshold" is preset (e.g., 500 milliseconds or less).

[0104] Step S402: If the duration reaches a preset duration threshold, a standby signal is sent to the transmitting unit to make the transmitting unit enter a low-power state.

[0105] Here, the preset duration threshold can be set in advance according to the actual situation, such as 500 milliseconds or less.

[0106] The control unit monitors this timer in real time. Once the duration of the current detection cycle reaches the preset duration threshold, the control unit will forcibly send a standby signal, regardless of whether data transmission has been completed or whether external signals are still fluctuating. The standby signal will cut off the drive signal of the transmitting unit (e.g., set the duty cycle to 0) and shut down the detection circuit of the receiving unit, causing the transmitting unit and related circuits to immediately stop working and enter a low-power sleep state, waiting for the next preset time interval.

[0107] For example, it only works for 0.5 seconds out of every 5 seconds, and is in a dormant state for the remaining 4.5 seconds.

[0108] In one embodiment, the operating state includes a first operating state and a second operating state; 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 first operating state, and the second reflective area corresponds to the second operating state.

[0109] Here, in order for the knob assembly to distinguish the current operating condition of the first device, the operating state of the first device is divided into at least two distinct states. The first operating state is usually defined as the non-working state of the device, such as the off or flame-off state of a gas stove; the second operating state is defined as the working state of the device, such as the on, ignition, or combustion state of a gas stove.

[0110] The first reflective zone is set on the reflective element in a sector or position corresponding to the knob's closed position; the second reflective zone covers the area on the reflective element other than the closed position, corresponding to the knob's rotation range (such as ignition and firepower adjustment range).

[0111] In order to generate signal differences that can be recognized by electronic circuits, the two regions use materials or surface treatment processes with different optical properties.

[0112] Specifically, the first reflective zone uses a low-reflectivity material, such as a matte black coating or a light-absorbing material, which has extremely weak reflectivity for infrared signals. Conversely, the second reflective zone uses a high-reflectivity material, such as a glossy white coating, a silver reflective film, or a mirror material, which has high reflectivity for infrared signals.

[0113] When the first device is in the first operating state, the sensing unit is located above the first reflection area, and the reflected signal corresponds to the intensity of the first reflected signal.

[0114] Here, when the user rotates the knob to the off position, the sensing unit mounted at the bottom of the knob moves accordingly and stops or hovers directly above the first reflective area. At this time, the infrared detection beam emitted by the emitting unit is projected onto the surface of the low-reflectivity first reflective area. Since most of the light energy is absorbed or scattered, only a very small amount of light can be reflected back into the knob.

[0115] Therefore, the optical signal received by the receiving unit is very weak, and its converted output electrical signal (i.e., the reflected signal) corresponds to the intensity of the first reflected signal. In digital circuits, this is typically represented by a low level or logic 0; in analog circuits, it is represented by a voltage value below a certain preset voltage threshold. The control unit detects this characteristic signal and determines that the device is currently in a powered-off state.

[0116] When the first device is in the second operating state, the sensing unit is located above the second reflection area, and the reflected signal corresponds to the intensity of the second reflected signal; the intensity of the first reflected signal is different from the intensity of the second reflected signal.

[0117] Here, when the user rotates the knob to ignite or adjust the flame, the sensing unit rotates with the knob and enters the coverage area of ​​the second reflective zone. At this time, the infrared beam emitted by the emitting unit is projected onto the highly reflective surface of the second reflective zone, and most of the light energy is efficiently reflected back into the knob.

[0118] The receiving unit thus receives a strong infrared light signal, and the output electrical signal corresponds to the intensity of the second reflected signal. The intensity of the second reflected signal is significantly higher than that of the first reflected signal, which is represented by a high level or logic 1 in digital circuits, and by a voltage value higher than a preset voltage threshold in analog circuits.

[0119] The difference between the strength of the first and second reflected signals is the basis for the control unit to determine the state. After receiving a strong signal (i.e., in the second operating state), the control unit can gradually reduce the transmission power until the signal strength is just maintained at the threshold edge, thereby achieving adaptive low-power operation during device operation. In the first operating state, due to the extremely low reflectivity, the system usually maintains a low-frequency detection state.

[0120] In one embodiment, the method further includes the following steps S501-S503.

[0121] Step S501: Real-time detection of the remaining power of the power supply unit.

[0122] Here, the control unit measures the real-time output voltage of the power supply unit periodically or under specific conditions (such as each wake-up) via one or more pins.

[0123] Step S502: Determine whether the remaining battery power is lower than the preset battery power threshold.

[0124] Here, the preset power threshold is usually a minimum operating voltage threshold (for example, a 3V powered system may have its minimum operating voltage threshold set to 2.5V).

[0125] During operation, the control unit compares the voltage value detected in real time with this preset voltage threshold.

[0126] In step S503, if the remaining battery power is lower than a preset battery power threshold, a low battery warning signal is generated and sent to the second device through the communication unit.

[0127] Here, if the detected voltage is lower than a preset power threshold, the control unit determines that the power supply unit is about to run out of power. At this time, the control unit will immediately generate a low power warning signal.

[0128] The control unit calls the communication unit to send this low battery warning signal to the second device. Upon receiving this signal, the second device can push this warning information to the user via its own display panel (such as a flashing LED) or via the network, thereby reminding the user to replace the battery in the knob assembly in time.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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 protection scope 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 within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application, or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. 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 protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A control method of a knob assembly, characterized by, The application is applied to a knob assembly, the knob assembly comprises a knob and a reflective element, the knob comprises a communication unit, an induction unit, a power supply unit and a control unit, the knob can be coupled to a corresponding first device, the reflective element is arranged on a surface of the first device opposite to the knob, the knob establishes a communication connection with a second device through the communication unit, the induction unit comprises a transmitting unit and a receiving unit, the receiving unit is used for receiving a reflected signal reflected by the reflective element and transmitted by the transmitting unit, the power supply unit is used for supplying power for the knob, and the control unit is used for executing the method, comprising: In response to the receiving unit being triggered by the reflected signal, the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit is lowered to make the transmission signal strength close to a corresponding transmission signal strength threshold; The transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit is maintained at a position slightly higher than the transmission signal strength threshold; wherein, if the transmission signal strength is lower than the transmission signal strength threshold, the receiving unit will not be triggered by the reflected signal.

2. The control method of the knob assembly according to claim 1, wherein The step of lowering the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit comprises: The transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit is lowered by controlling the signal duty cycle of the transmitting unit.

3. The control method of the knob assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The step of lowering the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit comprises: The transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit is lowered by controlling the transmission power of the transmitting unit.

4. The control method of the knob assembly according to claim 2, wherein The step of lowering the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit by controlling the signal duty cycle of the transmitting unit comprises: The initial signal duty cycle of the transmitting unit is set as a maximum duty cycle; The initial signal duty cycle is gradually reduced based on a preset duty cycle decrement rule until the receiving unit will not be triggered by the reflected signal; The signal duty cycle when the receiving unit will not be triggered by the reflected signal is determined as a minimum duty cycle; The sum of the minimum duty cycle and a preset safety margin value is determined as a target duty cycle; The step of maintaining the transmission signal strength of the transmitting unit at a position slightly higher than the transmission signal strength threshold comprises: The transmitting unit is controlled to operate according to the target duty cycle.

5. The control method of the knob assembly according to claim 4, wherein The method further comprises: An activation signal is sent to the transmitting unit at a preset time interval, the transmitting unit is controlled to transmit the transmission signal at the target duty cycle, so that the transmitting unit enters a working state; It is determined whether the reflected signal is the same as a previous historical reflected signal; If the reflected signal is not the same as the previous historical reflected signal, according to a preset mapping relationship between the reflected signal and the operating state, it is determined that the operating state of the first device has changed; The operating state of the first device is sent to the second device through the communication unit, so that the second device responds to the operating state; wherein, the reflected signal is used to determine the operating state of the first device.

6. The control method of the knob assembly according to claim 5, wherein After the step of sending an activation signal to the transmitting unit at a preset time interval, the method further comprises: According to a length of time that the same reflected signal is continuously detected in a current detection period, a duration of the current detection period is calculated; If the duration reaches a preset duration threshold, a standby signal is sent to the transmitting unit, so that the transmitting unit enters a low-power consumption state.

7. The control method of the knob assembly according to claim 1, wherein The operating state includes a first operating state and a second operating state; the light-reflecting element is provided with a first reflection area and a second reflection area; the reflectivity of the first reflection area is different from the reflectivity of the second reflection area; the first reflection area corresponds to the first operating state, and the second reflection area corresponds to the second operating state; When the first device is in the first operating state, the sensing unit is located above the first reflection area, and the reflected signal corresponds to a first reflected signal strength; When the first device is in the second operating state, the sensing unit is located above the second reflection area, and the reflected signal corresponds to a second reflected signal strength; the first reflected signal strength is different from the second reflected signal strength.

8. The control method of the knob assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The method further includes: detecting a remaining power of the power supply unit in real time; determining whether the remaining power is lower than a preset power threshold; If the remaining power is lower than the preset power threshold, a low-power prompt signal is generated, and the low-power prompt signal is sent to the second device through the communication unit.

9. A knob assembly, characterized by The knob includes a communication unit, a sensing unit, a power supply unit, and a control unit, the knob can be coupled to a corresponding first device, the light-reflecting element is arranged on a surface of the first device opposite to the knob, the knob establishes a communication connection with a second device through the communication unit, the sensing unit includes a transmitting unit and a receiving unit, the receiving unit is used to receive a reflected signal emitted by the transmitting unit and reflected by the light-reflecting element, the power supply unit is used to supply power to the knob, and the control unit is used to execute the control method of the knob assembly in any one of claims 1-8.

10. The knob assembly of claim 9, wherein, The light-reflecting element is provided with a first reflection area and a second reflection area; the reflectivity of the first reflection area is different from the reflectivity of the second reflection area.

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