Control method for pairing of water return device and water heater

Abstract

The invention provides a water return device and water heater pairing control method, which comprises the following steps that: in response to an ad hoc network instruction triggered by a user, gateway equipment broadcasts a pairing signal, and a water heater starts a circulating water pump, so that the water heater can output hot water to a water return device after a water return switch valve is opened; the water return device opens a water return switch valve based on the pairing signal and detects the waterway temperature in real time, and when the waterway temperature reaches the target waterway temperature, the water return switch valve is closed and a response signal is sent out; the gateway equipment transmits responded water return device information to the water heater based on the response signal of the water return device; and the water heater carries out networking pairing with the responded water return device based on the water return device information. The pairing signal sent by the water heater is broadcasted through the gateway device, the water return device in the communication range of the pairing signal can automatically respond to the pairing signal and carry out temperature detection and response, networking pairing can be carried out on the multiple water return devices at the same time, the tedious steps of networking pairing are remarkably reduced, and the efficiency of networking pairing is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to hot water supply equipment, and more particularly to a control method for pairing a return water device with a water heater. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of smart home technology, zero-cold-water gas-fired water heating systems have gradually become the mainstream choice for household hot water supply due to their ability to provide instant hot water. These systems are typically equipped with a recirculation device to ensure stable hot water temperature within the pipes. During installation, the water heater and recirculation device need to be paired to achieve precise water temperature control and hot water circulation through data exchange.

[0003] Currently, pairing and networking between the recirculation system and the water heater mainly relies on manual operation. However, the manual pairing process is cumbersome, prone to omissions, leading to pairing failures, reduced accuracy, and time-consuming operation, thus lowering the pairing efficiency between the recirculation system and the water heater. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The first technical problem solved by this invention is to provide a control method for pairing a recirculating water heater with a water heater, which automatically completes the pairing of the recirculating water heater and the water heater without manual intervention, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of pairing.

[0005] The second technical problem solved by this invention is to provide another control device for pairing a recirculating water heater with a water heater, which can automatically complete the pairing of the recirculating water heater and the water heater without manual intervention, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of pairing.

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

[0007] A control method for pairing a recirculating water heater with a water heater is applied to a water heater system. The water heater system includes a water heater, a recirculating water heater, and a gateway device. The water heater and the recirculating water heater are located in the same circulating water circuit. The water heater is equipped with a circulating water pump, and the recirculating water heater is equipped with a recirculating water switch valve. The water heater is communicatively connected to the gateway device. The method includes:

[0008] In response to a user-triggered self-organizing network command, the gateway device broadcasts a pairing signal, and the water heater starts the circulating water pump so that the water heater can output hot water to the return water device after the return water switch valve is opened;

[0009] The return water device opens the return water switch valve based on the pairing signal and monitors the water temperature in real time. When the water temperature reaches the target water temperature, it closes the return water switch valve and sends a response signal.

[0010] The gateway device transmits the responding water return device information to the water heater based on the response signal from the water return device.

[0011] The water heater, based on the information from the return water device, forms a network pair with the responding return water device.

[0012] Compared with the prior art, the control method for pairing a recirculating water heater with a water heater described in this invention has the following advantages: By triggering a self-organizing network command, the gateway device broadcasts the pairing signal sent by the water heater. The recirculating water heater within the communication range of the pairing signal can automatically respond to the pairing signal and perform temperature detection and response. The entire pairing process is completed automatically by the system, and it can simultaneously pair with multiple recirculating water heaters, significantly reducing the cumbersome steps of network pairing and improving the efficiency of network pairing. Secondly, the recirculating water heater does not respond immediately after receiving the pairing signal, but first opens the recirculating water switch valve, detects the water temperature in real time, and only closes the recirculating water switch valve and sends a response signal after the water temperature reaches the target water temperature. This ensures that only the recirculating water heater that is actually in the same water circuit as the water heater will respond, improving the pairing accuracy.

[0013] The second technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0014] A control method for pairing a return water device with a water heater, applied in a water heater system, the water heater system including a water heater and a return water device, the water heater and the return water device being in the same circulating water circuit, the water heater being equipped with a circulating water pump, and the return water device being equipped with a return water switch valve; the method includes:

[0015] In response to a user-triggered self-organizing network command, the water heater broadcasts a pairing signal and starts the circulating water pump so that the water heater can output hot water to the return water device after the return water switch valve is opened.

[0016] The water return device opens the water return switch valve based on the pairing signal and monitors the water circuit temperature in real time. When the water circuit temperature reaches the target water circuit temperature, it closes the water return switch valve and sends a response signal; the response signal includes water return device information.

[0017] The water heater, based on the information from the return water device, forms a network pair with the responding return water device.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the control method for pairing a recirculating water heater with a water heater described in this invention has the following advantages: In this embodiment, by triggering a self-organizing network command, the water heater sends a pairing signal. The recirculating water heater within the communication range of the pairing signal can automatically respond to the pairing signal and perform temperature detection and response. The entire pairing process is completed automatically by the system, and it can simultaneously pair with multiple recirculating water heaters, significantly reducing the cumbersome steps of network pairing and improving the efficiency of network pairing. Secondly, the recirculating water heater does not respond immediately after receiving the pairing signal, but first opens the recirculating water switch valve, detects the water temperature in real time, and only closes the recirculating water switch valve and sends a response signal after the water temperature reaches the target water temperature. This ensures that only the recirculating water heater that is actually in the same water circuit as the water heater will respond, improving the pairing accuracy. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a control method for pairing a water return device with a water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the pairing of a water heater and a recirculation device provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another control method for pairing a water return device with a water heater provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a control device for pairing a water return device and a water heater, provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another control device for pairing a water return device with a water heater provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The technical solutions of the embodiments 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, and 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.

[0027] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "first," "objective," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0028] The technical solution of the present invention will be illustrated below through specific embodiments.

[0029] Reference Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a control method for pairing a water return device with a water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention, which may specifically include the following steps:

[0030] Step 101: In response to the user-triggered self-organizing network command, the gateway device broadcasts a pairing signal, and the water heater starts the circulating water pump so that the water heater can output hot water to the return water device after the return water switch valve is opened.

[0031] In this embodiment, upon responding to the user's self-organizing network command, the water heater activates its circulating water pump when the gateway device broadcasts the pairing signal sent by the water heater. The early activation of the circulating water pump puts the water circuit of the water heater system in a ready state. When the return water device, which is in the same water circuit as the water heater, subsequently opens its return water switch valve, hot water circulation can be quickly formed, avoiding the delay in hot water output caused by the water circuit not starting in advance, and ensuring that the subsequent water circuit temperature detection can be carried out smoothly. The synchronous advancement of the pairing signal broadcast by the gateway device and the water circuit activation overcomes the propagation limitation that the water heater cannot broadcast, making it possible for one water heater to pair with multiple return water devices simultaneously. On the other hand, it allows the pairing signal coverage and the operational readiness (water circuit activation) to proceed in parallel, shortening the total time of the entire network pairing process, improving the efficiency of network pairing, and avoiding the low pairing efficiency caused by phased operations.

[0032] For example, a water heater system includes a water heater, a return water recirculation device, and a gateway device. In the same water heater system, the water heater and the return water recirculation device are in the same circulating water circuit, and the water heater is equipped with a circulating water pump, the return water recirculation device is equipped with a return water switch valve, and the water heater is communicatively connected to the gateway device.

[0033] In this embodiment, the water heater is equipped with a Bluetooth module or an RS-485 wired communication module, which cannot broadcast pairing signals. Based on the communication connection between the water heater and the gateway device, the water heater can send the pairing signal to the gateway device. The gateway device broadcasts the pairing signal, which effectively solves the shortcoming that the water heater cannot broadcast. This avoids the problem that the return water device cannot receive the pairing signal and the network pairing cannot start due to the water heater's inability to broadcast directly, thus improving the reliability of the self-organizing network startup.

[0034] In one embodiment of the present invention, the process of networking and pairing the water heater and the return water device further includes the following steps 1011-1013.

[0035] Step 1011: Real-time detection of current water flow.

[0036] In this embodiment, the water heater is a gas water heater. After the water heater turns on the circulating water pump, the water heater system detects the current water flow in real time to confirm whether the water circuit is unobstructed and whether the water volume is sufficient. In order for the gas water heater to output hot water, there must be enough water circulating in the pipes (otherwise it is easy to dry burn, which will damage the machine and pose a safety hazard).

[0037] Step 1012: When the current water flow rate reaches the ignition water flow rate, control the water heater to ignite and burn according to the target temperature to output hot water.

[0038] In this embodiment, when the current water flow rate reaches the ignition water flow rate, it indicates that the water path is unobstructed and the water volume is sufficient. At this time, the water heater system controls the water heater to start the ignition and combustion program, controlling the water heater to ignite and burn according to the target temperature to output hot water. If the current water flow rate does not reach the ignition hot water volume, the water heater is controlled not to ignite to avoid dry burning.

[0039] Step 1013: If the water heater does not ignite within the first preset time after the circulating water pump is turned on, the circulating water pump is turned off and the pairing with the return water device is stopped.

[0040] In this embodiment, turning on the circulating water pump is also to cooperate with the return water valve, which is actually in the same water circuit as the water heater, to form a water circuit circulation. If the return water valve is open normally, the circulating water pump will drive the water circuit circulation. When the current water flow reaches the ignition threshold, the gas water heater can ignite smoothly and supply hot water, providing a basis for pairing. If the circulating water pump has been turned on for a preset time (e.g., 30 seconds, i.e., the "first preset time") and the water heater still has not ignited, it may be that the return water valve of the return water valve is not open, or the return water valve is not actually in the same water circuit as the water heater. In this case, the circulating water pump of the water heater will be running idle, and there will be no effective water flow in the pipeline. Naturally, the gas water heater cannot ignite. Therefore, it is necessary to turn off the circulating water pump, stop the network pairing, and reduce power consumption and pump wear.

[0041] For example, after the water heater is ignited and burning, if the current water flow rate is lower than the ignition water flow rate or the burning time reaches the preset burning time, the circulating water pump is turned off and the pairing with the return water device is stopped.

[0042] Specifically: On the one hand, after the water heater ignites and starts burning, the initial water flow rate is the ignition flow rate. However, if the current water flow rate suddenly drops below the ignition threshold, it may indicate a sudden problem in the water circuit (such as the return water valve closing, pipe leakage, or a sudden drop in water pressure). In this embodiment, the current water flow rate dropping below the ignition flow rate mainly refers to the situation where the return water valve closes when the water temperature of the return water device, which is in the same water circuit as the water heater, reaches the target water temperature. If combustion continues at this time, there is a risk of dry burning. Therefore, the circulating water pump is shut off, pairing is stopped, and the water heater stops burning.

[0043] On the other hand, the preset combustion time is set by the manufacturer based on parameters such as pipeline transmission characteristics and water heater heating power. This includes the heating time for the gas water heater to heat cold water to the target temperature, and the time for hot water to be transported along the pipeline to the return water unit within the same water circuit. When the preset combustion time is reached, under normal circumstances, if the return water unit and water heater are in the same water circuit, there is sufficient time for the water heater system to complete the one-way zero-cold-water function and the subsequent pairing process, shutting off the circulating water pump and stopping the network pairing with the return water unit, thus avoiding energy loss from continuous combustion. Setting a preset combustion time can also exclude return water units that are not in the same water circuit as the water heater. In this case, even if the water heater burns hot water indefinitely, this hot water will not be transmitted to the return water unit that is not in the same water circuit as the water heater, and the subsequent pairing process cannot be completed. Indefinite combustion would waste a lot of energy and greatly prolong the network pairing time.

[0044] Step 102: The return water device opens the return water switch valve based on the pairing signal and monitors the water circuit temperature in real time. When the water circuit temperature reaches the target water circuit temperature, it closes the return water switch valve and sends a response signal.

[0045] In this embodiment, all recirculating water units within the communication range of the gateway device receive the pairing signal sent by the water heater. Temperature compliance verification (i.e., the water temperature reaches the target water temperature) confirms that the recirculating water unit and the water heater are in the same circulating water path. This excludes recirculating water units that only receive the pairing signal but are not in the same water path from participating in the pairing, avoiding subsequent functional failures caused by false pairing and significantly improving the accuracy and targeting of the pairing. Secondly, the pairing signal response is converted into actual hot water transmission verification, establishing network pairing on the basis of hardware connectivity. This provides a reliable physical link guarantee for the subsequent collaborative implementation of functions such as zero cold water and constant temperature water supply between the water heater and the recirculating water unit, avoiding the technical defect of successful pairing but blocked water path. Finally, energy consumption optimization and equipment protection are achieved. By promptly closing the recirculating water valve after the temperature reaches the target, invalid water circulation is terminated, reducing the power consumption caused by the continuous operation of the circulating water pump. Simultaneously, it avoids equipment corrosion or energy waste caused by long-term hot water retention in the pipes, balancing energy efficiency and equipment lifespan.

[0046] For example, the pairing signal carries the target temperature of the hot water output from the water heater. The target water circuit temperature is determined based on the target temperature, where the target water circuit temperature is lower than the target temperature. The target water circuit temperature equals the target temperature minus an attenuation factor (here, the attenuation factor is a positive number). From a physical transmission perspective, the hot water heated by the water heater to the target temperature typically experiences heat loss during its journey through the circulation pipes to the return water unit due to pipe heat dissipation and ambient temperature effects, resulting in a natural temperature decrease in the hot water (i.e., the target water circuit temperature when the hot water arrives at the return water unit is lower than the target temperature at the water heater outlet). The attenuation factor is essentially a preset compensation parameter for the temperature drop of the hot water in the pipes, making the target water circuit temperature setting more adaptable and accurate, and ensuring consistency in pairing verification under different scenarios.

[0047] In one embodiment of the present invention, steps 1021-1022 are included before step 102 is performed.

[0048] Step 1021: The recirculation device determines whether it has been paired with the water heater; if not, proceed to step 102; if yes, proceed to step 1022.

[0049] In this embodiment, the pairing signal broadcast by the gateway device in the water heater system typically covers paired recirculating water heaters. If no pairing status determination step (i.e., the recirculating water heater determines whether it has paired with the water heater) is set up, paired recirculating water heaters will respond to the signal and open the return water valve as if they were not paired. This would cause multiple recirculating water heaters to respond to the pairing signal simultaneously, resulting in congestion of the communication link between the gateway device and the water heater, interfering with the normal pairing process of unpaired recirculating water heaters, and reducing overall network efficiency. If the recirculating water heater has not yet paired with the water heater, step 102 is executed: the recirculating water heater opens the return water valve based on the pairing signal and monitors the water temperature in real time. When the water temperature reaches the target water temperature, the return water valve closes and sends a response signal. If the recirculating water heater has already paired with the water heater, step 1022 is executed.

[0050] For example, the recirculating water heater can determine whether it has been paired with the water heater using the following method: After successful pairing, the water heater, gateway device, and recirculating water heater locally synchronize and store the binding relationship data of the paired recirculating water heater ID and water heater ID. When the recirculating water heater receives a pairing signal broadcast by the gateway, it first extracts the water heater identification information (such as the water heater ID) carried in the pairing signal, and then queries the locally stored binding record. If a valid binding record corresponding to the water heater ID exists locally (the record has not been deleted or marked as invalid), then pairing is determined to be complete; if the binding record does not exist, or the record has expired, then pairing is determined to be unsuccessful. This method relies on locally stored binding data, has a fast judgment speed, does not rely on real-time communication, and has strong stability. This method is only an example and is not intended to limit this embodiment.

[0051] Step 1022: The return water device ignores the pairing signal and keeps the return water switch valve closed.

[0052] In this embodiment, if the return water device has already been paired with the water heater, the return water device ignores the pairing signal and keeps the return water switch valve closed, thereby improving the efficiency of the water heater system's network pairing.

[0053] Step 103: The gateway device transmits the responding water return device information to the water heater based on the response signal from the water return device.

[0054] In this embodiment, the recirculating water heater is equipped with a communication module with broadcasting function (such as a 433 wireless communication module). The recirculating water heater broadcasts a response signal through the communication module with broadcasting function. After receiving the response signal, the gateway device can transmit the recirculating water heater information received in the response signal to the water heater since the gateway device has already established a communication connection with the water heater. This builds a cross-protocol communication bridge, breaks through the protocol barrier between the non-broadcast communication module of the water heater and the broadcast communication module of the recirculating water heater, solves the contradiction that the recirculating water heater can broadcast but the water heater cannot receive it, and ensures that the response signal sent by the recirculating water heater can be effectively obtained by the water heater, avoiding the interruption of the pairing process due to communication incompatibility.

[0055] Step 104: The water heater pairs with the responding water return device based on the water return device information.

[0056] In this embodiment, during the self-organizing network process, the water heater needs to receive the return water device information carried by the response signal from the return water device through the gateway device to confirm the identity and status of the return water device, ensuring that the water heater can accurately identify and bind the return water device that responds to the pairing information, forming a stable pairing relationship, and realizing the accurate pairing of the water heater and the return water device.

[0057] For example, the return water device information includes the return water device ID, the status of the return water switch valve, or the detected water temperature. If the status of the return water switch valve in the return water device information is closed or the water temperature in the return water device information reaches the target water temperature, the water heater will network and pair with the responding return water device based on the return water device ID.

[0058] Specifically: The return water device information is the return water device's response to the pairing signal of the water heater. The return water device will only close the return water switch valve and send a response signal when the water temperature reaches the target water temperature. The response signal includes the return water device information. If the return water switch valve of the return water device is closed due to a malfunction of the return water device, the return water device will not send a response signal as long as the water temperature has not reached the target water temperature. When the water heater receives information from the return water device, it checks the return water device information. If the status of the return water switch valve in the return water device information is closed or the water temperature in the return water device information reaches the target water temperature, it indicates that the return water device and the water heater are in the same water circuit. The water heater performs network pairing with the responding return water device based on the return water device ID. Through the unique identification function of the return water device ID, the water heater can accurately identify the responding return water device. Combined with the conditions of valve closure status or water temperature reaching the target water temperature, it effectively eliminates interference from faulty return water devices and return water devices that have not completed the response process, ensuring that each pairing is completed with a functional return water device that can realize water circuit linkage, thus avoiding water circuit failures in subsequent use from the source.

[0059] In one embodiment of the present invention, the water heater system also includes an application program that, after the water heater system stops networking and pairing, obtains the preheating time of the return water heater and displays the preheating time in the application program.

[0060] The preheating time can be obtained in the following ways: 1. The time difference between the time of sending the pairing signal and the time of receiving the response signal is taken as the preheating time; or 2. The time difference between the time of opening the return water switch valve of the return water device and the time of closing the return water switch valve of the return water device is taken as the preheating time.

[0061] For example, the water heater system has multiple return water units. Based on the preheating time, the distance between each return water unit and the water heater is determined. The application sorts the return water unit controls on the display interface based on the distance.

[0062] Specifically, determining the distance between each recirculating water heater and the water heater based on preheating time is based on the direct correlation between preheating time and water circuit length. Distance can be indirectly determined using existing time data, eliminating the need for additional distance detection hardware. Preheating time is the time it takes for hot water to travel from the water heater to the recirculating water heater and reach the target temperature. The greater the distance between the recirculating water heater and the water heater, the longer the corresponding circulating water circuit, and the longer the time required for hot water transmission and temperature attainment, and vice versa. The application's recirculating water heater sorting control based on distance clearly presents the water circuit distance relationship and corresponding preheating time to the user, providing accurate preheating time references for subsequent use. In multi-recirculating water heater scenarios, the preheating time of each recirculating water heater differs. Sorting by distance categorizes and displays the preheating reference times of recirculating water heaters in different locations, allowing users to intuitively understand the preheating time of recirculating water heaters in different areas, facilitating advance planning of hot water usage time. Simultaneously, the organized sorting reduces the confusion of managing multiple devices, helping users quickly locate the target recirculating water heater, balancing the practicality of reference information delivery with the convenience of the user experience. The distance between the recirculation unit and the water heater can be determined by the following: Figure 2 As shown.

[0063] like Figure 2 The diagram shown illustrates the pairing of a water heater and a recirculation system. Figure 2 The diagram shows a water heater, a gateway device, and several return water units (Return Water Unit 1, Return Water Unit 2, Return Water Unit 3... Return Water Unit X). The water heater has the shortest actual water path to Return Water Unit 1, directly corresponding to the shortest preheating time. The lengths of the actual water paths between the water heater and each of the other return water units (Return Water Unit 2, Return Water Unit 3... Return Water Unit X) reflect their relative distances. A communication connection based on BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) technology is established between the water heater and the gateway device. The water heater sends a pairing signal to the gateway device, which broadcasts the pairing signal via radio frequency broadcasting. Return Water Units 1, 2, 3... Return Water Unit X can receive the pairing signal. Each return water unit broadcasts a response signal via radio frequency broadcasting in its communication module. Upon receiving the response signal, the gateway device sends it back to the water heater.

[0064] In this embodiment of the invention, the water heater system includes a water heater, a return water recirculator, and a gateway device. The water heater and the return water recirculator are located in the same circulating water circuit. The water heater is equipped with a circulating water pump, and the return water recirculator is equipped with a return water switch valve. The water heater is communicatively connected to the gateway device. In response to a user-triggered self-organizing network command, the gateway device broadcasts a pairing signal. The water heater starts the circulating water pump so that it can output hot water to the return water recirculator after the return water switch valve is opened. The return water recirculator opens the return water switch valve based on the pairing signal and monitors the water circuit temperature in real time. When the water circuit temperature reaches the target water circuit temperature, it closes the return water switch valve and sends a response signal. Based on the response signal from the return water recirculator, the gateway device transmits the responding return water recirculator information to the water heater. Based on the return water recirculator information, the water heater performs network pairing with the responding return water recirculator. In this embodiment, by triggering a self-organizing network command, the gateway device broadcasts a pairing signal sent by the water heater. Water return devices within the communication range of the pairing signal can automatically respond to the signal and complete temperature detection and response. The entire pairing process is completed automatically by the system, and it can simultaneously pair with multiple water return devices, significantly reducing the cumbersome steps of network pairing and improving its efficiency. Secondly, after receiving the pairing signal, the water return device does not respond immediately but first opens the return water valve to monitor the water temperature in real time. Only after the water temperature reaches the target temperature does it close the return water valve and send a response signal, ensuring that only water return devices actually in the same water circuit as the water heater respond, thus improving pairing accuracy.

[0065] Reference Figure 3 This diagram illustrates another control method for pairing a recirculating water heater with a water heater, provided by an embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is similar to... Figure 1 The difference in this embodiment is that there is no gateway device; the pairing signal is broadcast by the water heater. This embodiment may specifically include the following steps:

[0066] Step 301: In response to the user-triggered self-organizing network command, the water heater broadcasts a pairing signal and starts the circulating water pump so that the water heater can output hot water to the return water unit after the return water switch valve is opened.

[0067] In this embodiment, the water heater is equipped with a communication module with broadcasting function (such as a 433 wireless communication module). After responding to the user's self-organizing network command, the water heater can directly and autonomously broadcast the pairing signal without relying on a gateway for relay. At the same time, starting the circulating water pump can build an effective water circulation link in advance, ensuring that hot water can be smoothly delivered to the return water device after the return water switch valve is opened. This lays the foundation for accurate network pairing and ensuring the stability of hot water supply after pairing.

[0068] In one embodiment of the present invention, the water heater system includes a water heater and a return water device, the water heater and the return water device are in the same circulating water circuit, and the water heater is equipped with a circulating water pump and the return water device is equipped with a return water switch valve.

[0069] In one embodiment of the present invention, the water heater is a gas water heater, and the following is performed during the networking process of the water heater and the return water device: real-time detection of the current water flow rate; when the current water flow rate reaches the ignition water flow rate, control the water heater to ignite and burn according to the target temperature to output hot water; if the water heater does not ignite and burn within a first preset time after the circulating water pump is turned on, the circulating water pump is turned off and the networking pairing with the return water device is stopped.

[0070] After the water heater is ignited, if the current water flow rate is lower than the ignition water flow rate or the combustion time reaches the preset combustion time, the circulating water pump will be shut off and the pairing with the return water device will be stopped.

[0071] Step 302: The return water device opens the return water switch valve based on the pairing signal and monitors the water circuit temperature in real time. When the water circuit temperature reaches the target water circuit temperature, it closes the return water switch valve and sends a response signal.

[0072] For example, the response signal includes water return device information, and the pairing signal carries the target temperature of the hot water output by the water heater, the target water circuit temperature being determined based on the target temperature, wherein the target water circuit temperature is lower than the target temperature.

[0073] In one embodiment of the present invention, before executing step 302, the following steps are performed: the return water device determines whether it has been paired with the water heater; if not, the return water device opens the return water switch valve based on the pairing signal and detects the water temperature in real time. When the water temperature reaches the target water temperature, the return water switch valve is closed and a response signal is issued (i.e., step 302); if yes, the return water device ignores the pairing signal and keeps the return water switch valve closed.

[0074] Step 303: The water heater pairs with the responding water return device based on the water return device information.

[0075] In one embodiment of the present invention, the return water device information includes the return water device ID, the status of the return water switch valve, or the detected water temperature; if the status of the return water switch valve in the return water device information is closed or the water temperature in the return water device information reaches the target water temperature, the water heater performs network pairing with the responding return water device based on the return water device ID.

[0076] In another embodiment of the invention, the water heater system also includes an application that, when the water heater and the return water unit stop networking and pairing, obtains the preheating time of the return water unit and displays the preheating time in the application.

[0077] The preheating time is obtained in the following ways: 1. The time difference between the time of sending the pairing signal and the time of receiving the response signal is taken as the preheating time; or 2. The time difference between the time of opening the return water switch valve of the return water device and the time of closing the return water switch valve of the return water device is taken as the preheating time.

[0078] For example, the water heater system has multiple return water units. Based on the preheating time, the distance between each return water unit and the water heater is determined. The application sorts the return water unit controls on the display interface based on the distance.

[0079] In this embodiment of the invention, the water heater system includes a water heater and a return water device, which are located in the same circulating water circuit. The water heater is equipped with a circulating water pump, and the return water device is equipped with a return water switch valve. In response to a user-triggered self-organizing network command, the water heater broadcasts a pairing signal and starts the circulating water pump, so that the water heater can output hot water to the return water device after the return water switch valve is opened. The return water device opens the return water switch valve based on the pairing signal and monitors the water circuit temperature in real time. When the water circuit temperature reaches the target water circuit temperature, it closes the return water switch valve and sends a response signal. The response signal includes return water device information. Based on the return water device information, the water heater performs network pairing with the responding return water device. In this embodiment, by triggering a self-organizing network command, the water heater sends a pairing signal. The return water device within the communication range of the pairing signal can automatically respond to the pairing signal and complete temperature detection and response. The entire pairing process is completed automatically by the system, and it can simultaneously pair with multiple return water devices, significantly reducing the cumbersome steps of network pairing and improving the efficiency of network pairing. Secondly, after receiving the pairing signal, the return water device does not respond immediately, but first opens the return water switch valve to detect the water temperature in real time. Only after the water temperature reaches the target water temperature will the return water switch valve close and send a response signal, ensuring that only the return water device that is actually in the same water circuit as the water heater will respond, thus improving the pairing accuracy.

[0080] It should be noted that the sequence number of each step in the above embodiments does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0081] Reference Figure 4 This diagram illustrates a control device for pairing a recirculating water heater with a water heater, provided by an embodiment of the present invention. The device is applied to a water heater system, which includes a water heater, a recirculating water heater, and a gateway device. The water heater and the recirculating water heater are located in the same circulating water circuit. The water heater is equipped with a circulating water pump, and the recirculating water heater is equipped with a recirculating water switch valve. The water heater is communicatively connected to the gateway device. Specifically, the device may include the following modules:

[0082] The pairing signal broadcasting module 401 is used to respond to the self-organizing network command triggered by the user, broadcast a pairing signal through the gateway device, and start the circulating water pump through the water heater so that the water heater can output hot water to the return water device after the return water switch valve is opened;

[0083] The response signal sending module 402 is used to open the return water switch valve based on the pairing signal through the return water device, and to detect the water temperature in real time. When the water temperature reaches the target water temperature, the return water switch valve is closed and a response signal is sent.

[0084] The response signal receiving module 403 is used to transmit response water return device information to the water heater through the gateway device based on the response signal of the water return device;

[0085] The networking pairing module 404 is used to network pair with the responding return water device based on the return water device information of the water heater.

[0086] In one embodiment of the present invention, the water heater is a gas water heater, and the device further includes:

[0087] The water flow detection module is used to detect the current water flow in real time.

[0088] The hot water output module is used to control the water heater to ignite and burn according to the target temperature when the current water flow reaches the ignition water flow, so as to output hot water.

[0089] The circulating water pump shutdown module is used to shut down the circulating water pump and stop its networking with the return water device if the water heater fails to ignite within a first preset time period after the circulating water pump is turned on.

[0090] In one embodiment of the present invention, the device further includes:

[0091] The network stop module is used to shut down the circulating water pump and stop networking with the return water device if the current water flow rate is lower than the ignition water flow rate or the combustion time reaches the preset combustion time after the water heater is ignited and burning.

[0092] In one embodiment of the present invention, the pairing signal carries the target temperature of the hot water output by the water heater, and the target water circuit temperature is determined based on the target temperature, wherein the target water circuit temperature is lower than the target temperature.

[0093] In one embodiment of the present invention, the device further includes:

[0094] The pairing determination module is used to determine whether the return water device has been paired with the water heater; if not, the response signal sending module 402 is executed; if yes, the pairing signal ignoring module is executed.

[0095] The pairing signal ignoring module is used to ignore the pairing signal through the return water device and keep the return water switch valve closed.

[0096] In one embodiment of the present invention, the water heater system further includes an application program, and the device further includes:

[0097] The preheating time display module is used to obtain the preheating time of the water return device and display the preheating time in the application.

[0098] In one embodiment of the present invention, the device further includes:

[0099] The preheating time calculation module is used to take the time difference between the time of sending the pairing signal and the time of receiving the response signal as the preheating time; or

[0100] The preheating time acquisition module is used to take the time difference between the time when the return water device opens the return water switch valve and the time when the return water device closes the return water switch valve as the preheating time.

[0101] In one embodiment of the present invention, the water return device of the water heater system comprises multiple devices, and the device further includes:

[0102] The distance determination module is used to determine the distance between each return water unit and the water heater based on the preheating time.

[0103] The water return valve sorting module is used by the application to sort the water return valve controls on the display interface based on their proximity.

[0104] In one embodiment of the present invention, the return water device information includes the return water device ID, the status of the return water switch valve, or the detected water temperature; the network pairing module 404 includes:

[0105] The networking completion module is used to network and pair the water heater with the responding water heater based on the water heater ID if the status of the return water switch valve in the return water heater information is closed or the water temperature in the return water heater information reaches the target water temperature.

[0106] The present invention provides a control device for pairing a water return device with a water heater. By using this device, the various steps in the aforementioned control method embodiment for pairing a water return device with a water heater can be realized.

[0107] Reference Figure 5 This diagram illustrates another control device for pairing a return water heater with a water heater, provided by an embodiment of the present invention. The device is applied to a water heater system, which includes a water heater and a return water heater. The water heater and the return water heater are located in the same circulating water circuit. The water heater is equipped with a circulating water pump, and the return water heater is equipped with a return water switch valve. Specifically, the device may include the following modules:

[0108] The water heater broadcast pairing signal module 501 is used to respond to the user-triggered self-organizing network command, broadcast a pairing signal through the water heater, and start the circulating water pump so that the water heater can output hot water to the return water device after the return water switch valve is opened.

[0109] The return water device sends a response signal module 502, which is used to open the return water switch valve based on the pairing signal through the return water device, and to detect the water circuit temperature in real time. When the water circuit temperature reaches the target water circuit temperature, the return water switch valve is closed and a response signal is sent; the response signal includes return water device information.

[0110] The water heater networking pairing module 503 is used to pair the water heater with the responding water return device based on the water return device information.

[0111] In one embodiment of the present invention, the water heater is a gas water heater, and the device further includes:

[0112] The water flow detection module is used to detect the current water flow in real time.

[0113] The hot water output module is used to control the water heater to ignite and burn according to the target temperature when the current water flow reaches the ignition water flow, so as to output hot water.

[0114] The circulating water pump shutdown module is used to shut down the circulating water pump and stop its networking with the return water device if the water heater fails to ignite within a first preset time period after the circulating water pump is turned on.

[0115] In one embodiment of the present invention, the device further includes:

[0116] The network stop module is used to shut down the circulating water pump and stop networking with the return water device if the current water flow rate is lower than the ignition water flow rate or the combustion time reaches the preset combustion time after the water heater is ignited and burning.

[0117] In one embodiment of the present invention, the pairing signal carries the target temperature of the hot water output by the water heater, and the target water circuit temperature is determined based on the target temperature, wherein the target water circuit temperature is lower than the target temperature.

[0118] In one embodiment of the present invention, the device further includes:

[0119] The pairing determination module is used to determine whether the return water device has been paired with the water heater; if not, the return water device sends a response signal module 502; if yes, the pairing signal ignore module is executed.

[0120] The pairing signal ignoring module is used to ignore the pairing signal through the return water device and keep the return water switch valve closed.

[0121] In one embodiment of the present invention, the water heater system further includes an application program, and the device further includes:

[0122] The preheating time display module is used to obtain the preheating time of the water return device and display the preheating time in the application.

[0123] In one embodiment of the present invention, the device further includes:

[0124] The preheating time calculation module is used to take the time difference between the time of sending the pairing signal and the time of receiving the response signal as the preheating time; or

[0125] The preheating time acquisition module is used to take the time difference between the time when the return water device opens the return water switch valve and the time when the return water device closes the return water switch valve as the preheating time.

[0126] In one embodiment of the present invention, the water return device of the water heater system comprises multiple devices, and the device further includes:

[0127] The distance determination module is used to determine the distance between each return water unit and the water heater based on the preheating time.

[0128] The water return valve sorting module is used by the application to sort the water return valve controls on the display interface based on their proximity.

[0129] In one embodiment of the present invention, the return water device information includes the return water device ID, the status of the return water switch valve, or the detected water temperature; the water heater networking pairing module 503 includes:

[0130] The networking completion module is used to network and pair the water heater with the responding water heater based on the water heater ID if the status of the return water switch valve in the return water heater information is closed or the water temperature in the return water heater information reaches the target water temperature.

[0131] The present invention provides another control device for pairing a water return device with a water heater. By using this device, the various steps in the aforementioned control method embodiment for pairing a water return device with a water heater can be realized.

[0132] It should be noted that the module division in the various control devices for pairing water return devices and water heaters provided in the above embodiments is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, other division methods may also be used. Furthermore, the functional modules in the various embodiments of this invention can be integrated into a single processor, exist as separate physical entities, or be integrated into a single module. The integrated modules described above can be implemented in hardware or as software functional modules.

[0133] If the integrated module is implemented as a software functional module and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, all or part of the technical solution of the embodiments of the present invention can be embodied in the form of a computer program product, which is stored in a computer storage medium and includes several instructions to cause an electronic device or processor to execute all or part of the steps of the methods in the various embodiments of the present invention. The aforementioned computer 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.

[0134] Furthermore, the control device for pairing the return water heater and the control method for pairing the return water heater and the water heater provided in the above embodiments belong to the same concept, and their specific implementation process can be found in the method embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0135] Reference Figure 6 The diagram illustrates an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 As shown, the electronic device in this embodiment of the invention includes: a processor, a memory, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor. When the processor executes the computer program, it implements the steps in the control method embodiment for pairing a recirculating water heater and a water heater described above. Alternatively, when the processor executes the computer program, it implements the functions of each module in the control device embodiment for pairing a recirculating water heater and a water heater described above.

[0136] For example, the computer program may be divided into one or more modules, which are stored in the memory and executed by the processor to complete this application. The one or more modules may be a series of computer program instruction segments capable of performing a specific function, which can be used to describe the execution process of the computer program in the electronic device.

[0137] The electronic device may be a desktop computer, a cloud server, or other computing device. The electronic device may include, but is not limited to, a processor and memory. Those skilled in the art will understand that... Figure 6 This is merely one example of an electronic device and does not constitute a limitation on the electronic device. It may include more or fewer components than illustrated, or combine certain components, or different components. For example, the electronic device may also include input / output devices, network access devices, buses, etc.

[0138] The processor can be a Central Processing Unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0139] The memory can be an internal storage unit of the electronic device, such as a hard drive or RAM. Alternatively, it can be an external storage device, such as a plug-in hard drive, Smart Media Card (SMC), Secure Digital (SD) card, Flash Card, etc. Furthermore, the memory can include both internal and external storage units. The memory is used to store the computer program and other programs and data required by the electronic device. The memory can also be used to temporarily store data that has been output or will be output.

[0140] This invention also discloses an electronic device, including a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor. When the processor executes the computer program, it implements the control method for pairing a water return device with a water heater as described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0141] This invention also discloses a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the control method for pairing a water return device and a water heater as described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0142] This invention also discloses a computer program product that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to execute the control method for pairing a water return device and a water heater as described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0143] In the specific implementation of the above embodiments, the technical features can be combined in any non-contradictory way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the above technical features are described. However, as long as the combination of these technical features is not contradictory, it should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0144] The specific embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementations of the present invention, and while the descriptions are detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these modifications and improvements all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of this patent should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A control method for pairing a water return device with a water heater, characterized in that, The method is applied to a water heater system, which includes a water heater, a return water recirculation device, and a gateway device. The water heater and the return water recirculation device are located in the same circulating water circuit. The water heater is equipped with a circulating water pump, and the return water recirculation device is equipped with a return water switch valve. The water heater is communicatively connected to the gateway device. The method includes: In response to a user-triggered self-organizing network command, the gateway device broadcasts a pairing signal, and the water heater starts the circulating water pump so that the water heater can output hot water to the return water device after the return water switch valve is opened; The return water device opens the return water switch valve based on the pairing signal and monitors the water temperature in real time. When the water temperature reaches the target water temperature, it closes the return water switch valve and sends a response signal. The gateway device transmits the responding water return device information to the water heater based on the response signal from the water return device. The water heater, based on the information from the return water device, forms a network pair with the responding return water device.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water heater is a gas water heater, and the method further includes: Real-time monitoring of current water flow; When the current water flow rate reaches the ignition water flow rate, the water heater is controlled to ignite and burn according to the target temperature to output hot water; If the water heater fails to ignite within the first preset time period after the circulating water pump is turned on, the circulating water pump will be turned off, and the water heater will stop being paired with the return water device.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: After the water heater is ignited, if the current water flow rate is lower than the ignition water flow rate or the combustion time reaches the preset combustion time, the circulating water pump is turned off and the pairing with the return water device is stopped.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pairing signal carries the target temperature of the hot water output by the water heater, and the target water circuit temperature is determined based on the target temperature, wherein the target water circuit temperature is lower than the target temperature.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Before the return water device opens the return water switch valve based on the pairing signal and monitors the water circuit temperature in real time, and closes the return water switch valve and sends a response signal when the water circuit temperature reaches the target water circuit temperature, the method further includes: The water return device determines whether it has been paired with the water heater; If not, the process involves the water return device opening the water return switch valve based on the pairing signal, monitoring the water circuit temperature in real time, and closing the water return switch valve and issuing a response signal when the water circuit temperature reaches the target water circuit temperature. If so, the return water device ignores the pairing signal and keeps the return water switch valve closed.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The water heater system also includes an application program, and the method further includes: Obtain the preheating time of the water return device and display the preheating time in the application.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: The time difference between the time of sending the pairing signal and the time of receiving the response signal is taken as the warm-up time; or The time difference between the time when the return water device opens the return water switch valve and the time when the return water device closes the return water switch valve is taken as the preheating time.

8. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The water heater system has multiple return water units, and the method further includes: Based on the preheating time, the distance between each return water unit and the water heater is determined; The application sorts the water dispenser controls on the display interface based on their proximity.

9. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The return water device information includes the return water device ID, the status of the return water switch valve, or the detected water temperature; the water heater, based on the return water device information, performs network pairing with the responding return water device, including: If the status of the return water switch valve in the return water device information is closed, or if the water temperature in the return water device information reaches the target water temperature, then the water heater will form a network pair with the responding return water device based on the return water device ID.

10. A control method for pairing a water return device with a water heater, characterized in that, The method is applied to a water heater system, which includes a water heater and a return water system, wherein the water heater and the return water system are located in the same circulating water circuit, and the water heater is equipped with a circulating water pump, and the return water system is equipped with a return water switch valve; the method includes: In response to a user-triggered self-organizing network command, the water heater broadcasts a pairing signal and starts the circulating water pump so that the water heater can output hot water to the return water device after the return water switch valve is opened. The water return device opens the water return switch valve based on the pairing signal and monitors the water circuit temperature in real time. When the water circuit temperature reaches the target water circuit temperature, it closes the water return switch valve and sends a response signal; the response signal includes water return device information. The water heater, based on the information from the return water device, forms a network pair with the responding return water device.

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