Method for detecting evaporator fault and cooking equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of intelligent cooking, in particular to a method for detecting faults of a steam generator and cooking equipment. The steam generator is provided with a temperature sensor which is used for detecting the temperature of the steam generator; the method comprises the following steps: acquiring a first temperature value acquired by a temperature sensor; according to the method for detecting the fault of the steam generator, the steam generator is provided with a temperature sensor, so that the temperature of the steam generator is detected through the temperature sensor; under the condition that the first temperature value represents that the temperature sensor is not abnormal within the preset temperature range, whether the heating function actually takes effect or not is further judged by monitoring whether the temperature variation of the steam generator within the preset heating time length is smaller than the preset variation threshold value or not, accurate positioning of the steam generator fault root is achieved, and the accuracy of the steam generator fault root is improved. And the maintenance efficiency and the user satisfaction can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of intelligent cooking technology, and in particular to a method, apparatus, electronic device, and storage medium for detecting evaporator malfunctions. Background Technology

[0002] Kitchen appliances with steam cooking functions, such as steam ovens and rice cookers, have gained widespread popularity among consumers in recent years. As product features become increasingly diverse, users' demands for product quality and after-sales service levels are also rising. Even occasional minor malfunctions during long-term product use require rapid resolution to enhance the user experience. This market demand places higher requirements on the ability to quickly diagnose and accurately locate equipment faults.

[0003] Currently, steam generator products are not equipped with temperature sensors, which makes it impossible to monitor the working status of the steam generator in real time. When malfunctions such as failure to generate steam occur, maintenance personnel often need to check multiple components such as sensors, heating devices, and water pumps one by one. This makes it difficult for after-sales maintenance to quickly determine the specific parts that need to be replaced. It often requires multiple visits or replacement of multiple parts to solve the problem, which seriously affects user satisfaction. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a method, apparatus and cooking equipment for detecting evaporator faults, so as to improve fault detection efficiency.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a method for detecting a steam generator malfunction, wherein the steam generator is equipped with a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the steam generator. The method includes: Obtain the first temperature value collected by the temperature sensor; If the first temperature value is within the preset temperature range, obtain the temperature change within the preset heating time of the steam generator; If the temperature change is less than the preset change threshold, the steam generator is determined to be in an abnormal heating state.

[0006] In conjunction with the first aspect, the steam generator is also connected to a water pump; Before the step of acquiring the first temperature value collected by the temperature sensor, the following steps are also included: Turn on the water pump to remove the residual water from the steam generator.

[0007] In conjunction with the first aspect, the steps for obtaining the temperature change within a preset heating time of the steam generator include: Obtain the second temperature value at the start of heating of the steam generator and the third temperature value after the preset heating time; Calculate the difference between the third temperature value and the second temperature value to obtain the temperature change.

[0008] In conjunction with the first aspect, after the steps of obtaining the second temperature value at the start of heating of the steam generator and the third temperature value after a preset heating time, the method further includes: If the third temperature value is greater than the preset operating temperature threshold, it is determined that the steam generator is heating normally and the preset water replenishment heating mode is executed.

[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect, after calculating the difference between the third temperature value and the second temperature value to obtain the temperature change, the method further includes: If the third temperature value is less than or equal to the working temperature threshold, and the temperature change is greater than the preset change threshold, the steam generator is determined to be heating normally, and the preset water replenishment heating mode is executed.

[0010] In conjunction with the first aspect, after determining that the steam generator is in an abnormal heating state if the temperature change is less than a preset change threshold, the method further includes: Provide feedback on the first type of fault and the corresponding fault solution.

[0011] Following the step of obtaining the first temperature value acquired by the temperature sensor, in conjunction with the first aspect, the method further includes: If the first temperature value exceeds the preset temperature range, the temperature sensor is determined to be in an abnormal state.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, the step of determining that the temperature sensor is in an abnormal state if the first temperature value exceeds the preset temperature range includes: If the first temperature value is lower than the lower limit threshold of the temperature range, it is determined that the temperature sensor is in a short-circuit state; If the first temperature value is higher than the upper threshold of the temperature range, the temperature sensor is determined to be in an open circuit state.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, after determining that the temperature sensor is in an abnormal state if the first temperature value exceeds the preset temperature range, the method further includes: Provide feedback on the second type of fault and the corresponding fault solution.

[0014] Secondly, this application provides a cooking device, which includes: A steam generator is installed inside the cooking equipment; A temperature sensor, installed on the steam generator, is used to detect the temperature of the steam generator; The controller, electrically connected to the temperature sensor and the steam generator, is configured to perform the methods described above for detecting steam generator malfunctions.

[0015] The embodiments of the present invention bring the following beneficial effects: This application provides a method and cooking device for detecting steam generator malfunctions; the steam generator is equipped with a temperature sensor, which is used to detect the temperature of the steam generator; the method includes: acquiring a first temperature value collected by the temperature sensor; if the first temperature value is within a preset temperature range, acquiring the temperature change of the steam generator within a preset heating time; if the temperature change is less than a preset change threshold, determining that the steam generator is in an abnormal heating state.

[0016] This application provides a method for detecting steam generator malfunctions. The steam generator is equipped with a temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the steam generator. If the first temperature value is within a preset temperature range, indicating that the temperature sensor is not abnormal, the method further monitors whether the temperature change of the steam generator within a preset heating time is less than a preset change threshold to determine whether the heating function is actually effective. This method achieves accurate location of the root cause of the steam generator malfunction, which is beneficial to improving maintenance efficiency and user satisfaction.

[0017] Other features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practicing the invention. The objects and other advantages of the invention are realized and obtained in accordance with the structures particularly pointed out in the description, claims and drawings.

[0018] To make the above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, preferred embodiments are described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in 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 the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the method for detecting evaporator faults provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the method for detecting evaporator faults provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the electronic device structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure label: 130 - Processor, 131 - Memory, 132 - Bus, 133 - Communication interface. Detailed Implementation

[0022] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0023] To facilitate understanding of this embodiment, the application scenarios and design concepts of this application embodiment will be briefly introduced below.

[0024] Existing kitchen appliances such as steam ovens and rice cookers that rely on steam cooking are difficult to diagnose quickly and accurately.

[0025] Based on this, embodiments of this application provide a method, apparatus, electronic device, and storage medium for detecting evaporator faults, so as to quickly and accurately determine the cause of the fault.

[0026] Example 1 This application provides a method for detecting malfunctions in a steam generator, wherein the steam generator is equipped with a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the steam generator. Combined with... Figure 1 As shown, the method includes: S110, acquire the first temperature value collected by the temperature sensor.

[0027] S120, if the first temperature value is within the preset temperature range, obtain the temperature change within the preset heating time of the steam generator.

[0028] S130, if the temperature change is less than the preset change threshold, the steam generator is determined to be in an abnormal heating state.

[0029] This application collects a first temperature value by setting a temperature sensor on the steam generator. When the first temperature value is within a preset temperature range, the fault of the temperature sensor itself is ruled out. Furthermore, by monitoring whether the temperature change of the steam generator within a preset heating time is less than a preset change threshold, it is determined whether the heating function is actually effective. This achieves accurate location of the root cause of the steam generator fault, which is conducive to improving maintenance efficiency and user satisfaction.

[0030] The temperature sensor used in step S110 can be any electronic component suitable for temperature detection, such as a thermistor sensor (NTC or PTC), thermocouple, platinum resistance temperature sensor (such as PT100, PT1000), digital temperature sensor (such as DS18B20), etc. Among these, NTC thermistors are widely used in kitchen appliances due to their high sensitivity, fast response speed, and low cost. Their resistance decreases as temperature increases, and the corresponding temperature value can be calculated by detecting the change in resistance. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, considering the balance between cost and performance, an NTC thermistor is used as the temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the steam generator, i.e., the first temperature value.

[0031] Understandably, the temperature sensor needs to form a reliable thermally conductive connection with the steam generator body to ensure that the detected temperature accurately reflects the actual internal temperature of the steam generator. Specific connection methods include, but are not limited to, adhesive mounting, embedded mounting, or immersion mounting. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, to balance installation convenience and detection response speed, an embedded mounting method is adopted, in which the temperature sensor probe is fixed to the metal housing of the steam generator's evaporation plate using a sealing ring.

[0032] Furthermore, the placement of the temperature sensor directly affects its ability to respond to the operating status of the steam generator. Depending on the specific structure of the steam generator, it can be placed at the bottom or side wall of the evaporation pan, near the steam outlet, in the water level detection area, or on the surface of the heating element. In this embodiment, considering both the need to detect whether the heating function is effective and the need to consider the sensor's lifespan and response speed, the temperature sensor is placed on the outer wall of the bottom or side wall of the evaporation pan of the steam generator. This location allows for rapid response to heat conduction generated by the heating element while avoiding direct contact with scale, thus extending the lifespan of the temperature sensor.

[0033] Therefore, in this embodiment, the steam generator includes a metal evaporation plate with a boss on the bottom or side wall. A blind hole or through hole is opened in the center of the boss. The probe of a temperature sensor (such as an NTC thermistor) is inserted into the hole. Thermal grease is applied between the probe and the hole wall to reduce contact thermal resistance. The tail of the probe is fixed and sealed by a sealing plug or sealant. The temperature sensor lead is connected to the controller of the cooking equipment through a connector to transmit the detected temperature to the controller. This structure is simple, reliable, and easy to manufacture and assemble.

[0034] In step S120, it is first determined whether the first temperature value obtained in step S110 is within a preset temperature range. This preset temperature range corresponds to the reasonable output range of the temperature sensor under normal operating conditions, and its upper and lower thresholds can be preset according to the electrical characteristics and physical range of the temperature sensor. For example, for common NTC thermistor temperature sensors, their normal operating temperature range usually corresponds to a certain resistance range. Exceeding this range means that the sensor may be in a short-circuit (extremely low temperature) or open-circuit (extremely high temperature) state.

[0035] If the first temperature value is within the preset temperature range, it indicates that the temperature sensor itself is working normally and there is no electrical fault such as short circuit or open circuit. At this time, the steam generator is controlled to start heating and continue heating for a preset duration (e.g., 0 to N seconds, where N can be set according to the specific product structure and power characteristics). During the heating process, the detection value of the temperature sensor is collected in real time or at regular intervals, and the temperature change within the preset duration is calculated based on the temperature values ​​at the start and end of heating. Specifically, the temperature value at the start of heating t0 can be recorded as the second temperature value, and the temperature value at the end of heating tN can be recorded as the third temperature value. Then, the temperature change ΔT = third temperature value - second temperature value.

[0036] Step S130 compares the temperature change ΔT calculated in step S120 with a preset change threshold H. This preset change threshold H is set based on the minimum temperature rise rate of the steam generator under normal operating conditions, representing the minimum temperature rise that the heating function should achieve within a preset time period when it is working normally. This allows for further monitoring of the actual temperature rise effect to determine whether the heating function has failed, assuming the temperature sensor is functioning correctly.

[0037] In addition to the first aspect, the steam generator is also connected to a water pump.

[0038] Before step S110, the following are also included: S010, control the water pump to start, so as to extract the residual water in the steam generator.

[0039] During operation, steam generators typically retain a certain amount of water. This residual water may originate from incompletely evaporated water from the previous cooking cycle or form from condensation backflow. If fault detection is performed directly with residual water present, the high specific heat capacity of water causes a relatively slow temperature rise during heating, and the presence of water also tends to flatten the temperature change, masking the actual operating status of the heating element. If the heating element malfunctions, the residual water may result in insignificant temperature changes, interfering with the diagnosis. Furthermore, the temperature of the residual water may be close to ambient temperature; direct detection may not accurately reflect the initial state of the evaporator plate. Therefore, forcibly removing the residual water before testing ensures the steam generator is in a standardized, unloaded initial state, eliminating the influence of water volume differences on temperature detection and ensuring the comparability and accuracy of the test results.

[0040] The water pump used in this invention can be any type of micro pump suitable for fluid transport, such as an electromagnetic diaphragm pump, gear pump, or peristaltic pump. Based on self-priming capability, dry-run tolerance, and cost factors, an electromagnetic diaphragm pump is used as the water pump in this embodiment. The water pump's inlet is connected to the steam generator's drain outlet or the lowest point at its bottom via a pipeline to ensure that residual water is pumped out as completely as possible. The water pump's outlet is connected to a water tank or wastewater collection container via a pipeline. A control signal line is connected to the controller of the cooking equipment.

[0041] Specifically, when the cooking equipment is powered on, enters fault detection mode, or the cooking program starts, the forced back-pull procedure is triggered first. At this time, the controller outputs a start signal to the water pump, and the water pump starts working, pumping out the residual water in the steam generator through the pipeline for a preset pumping time (e.g., 10-30 seconds, set according to the steam generator volume and pipeline length) to ensure that the residual water is basically drained. Alternatively, a flow sensor or water detection circuit can be installed in the pipeline. When no water flow is detected, the controller controls the water pump to stop working to stop pumping.

[0042] As a preferred implementation, after the water is pumped out, the water can be allowed to stand for 1-2 seconds to allow the water droplets adhering to the inner wall of the evaporation pan to flow down or drip further before proceeding to the subsequent temperature detection step, so as to further improve the initial dryness.

[0043] In conjunction with the first aspect, the step S120 of obtaining the temperature change within a preset heating time of the steam generator includes: S121, obtain the second temperature value at the start of heating of the steam generator and the third temperature value after the preset heating time.

[0044] S122, calculate the difference between the third temperature value and the second temperature value to obtain the temperature change.

[0045] In step S120, after the system determines that the first temperature value is within the preset temperature range (i.e., the temperature sensor itself is functioning normally), it controls the steam generator to start heating. After the steam generator starts heating, the temperature values ​​at two key time points are recorded as the basis data for subsequent calculations of temperature changes. The heating start time t0 refers to the instant the steam generator's heating function is activated. At this moment, the detection value of the temperature sensor is read and recorded as the second temperature value Tt0.

[0046] If there is no time interval between step S110 and step S120, the first temperature value and the second temperature value can be the same value, that is, the first temperature value obtained in step S110 is the temperature value at the start of heating, and Tt0 = the first temperature value.

[0047] If there is a time interval between step S110 and step S120 (e.g., other preprocessing or waiting is performed), the temperature value needs to be reread as a second temperature value at the start of heating to ensure the accuracy of the reference temperature.

[0048] After the steam generator starts heating, it continues heating for a preset time (e.g., 0 to N seconds, where N is preset according to the product structure and power characteristics). At the end of this preset time, tN, the temperature sensor reading is taken again and recorded as the third temperature value TtN. Thus, the temperature change ΔT = Tt0 - TtN is calculated.

[0049] Understandably, the temperature change ΔT represents the net temperature rise of the steam generator within a preset time period and is a core indicator for measuring the working status of the heating device. If ΔT>0, it indicates that the steam generator temperature has risen and the heating device has generated heat; if ΔT≤0, it indicates that the temperature has not risen or has even fallen, indicating that the heating device is not working effectively (or the heating power is much lower than the heat dissipation power), which is a clear abnormality.

[0050] Understandably, the setting of the preset duration N needs to take into account factors such as heating power and evaporator heat capacity. Among these factors, the higher the heating power, the faster the temperature rises, and the shorter the preset duration can be. The higher the heat capacity, the longer it takes to reach a detectable temperature rise.

[0051] In conjunction with the first aspect, after step S121, the method further includes: S123, if the third temperature value is greater than the preset working temperature threshold, it is determined that the steam generator is heating normally, and the preset water replenishment heating mode is executed.

[0052] Among them, the preset working temperature threshold K is the critical threshold for judging whether heating is effective. Its setting needs to comprehensively consider the critical temperature of steam generation and the normal working temperature range of different types of steam generators, and should be matched with the preset heating duration N. Under normal pressure, water boils to generate steam at 100°C. Therefore, the working temperature threshold K is usually set above 100°C to ensure that the steam generator has the ability to generate steam. If K is set too low (for example, 80°C), it may occur that steam is not generated at this temperature, which is not sufficient to prove that the heating function is completely normal.

[0053] When the third temperature value TtN is significantly higher than the working temperature threshold K, it means that the steam generator not only heats up within the preset duration, but has also reached the working temperature sufficient to generate steam. At this time, regardless of the specific value of the temperature change ΔT, it is sufficient to prove that the heating device is working normally. Therefore, there is no need to calculate ΔT and compare it with the preset change threshold H, and the subsequent working procedure can be directly entered to improve the detection efficiency.

[0054] Preferably, after obtaining TtN, the judgment of step S123 can be preferentially executed. If TtN > K, it directly transfers to the water replenishment heating mode and does not execute steps S122 and S130.

[0055] If TtN ≤ K, it means that the third temperature value has not reached the working temperature threshold. At this time, the reason needs to be further analyzed: whether the heating is completely ineffective or the heating power is insufficient resulting in too slow temperature rise. At this time, continue to execute step S122 to calculate the temperature change ΔT, and compare ΔT with the preset change threshold H in step S130 to determine whether it belongs to heating abnormality.

[0056] It can be understood that the specific value of ΔT reflects the heating ability of the heating device. The larger the amplitude, the more sufficient the heating power; the smaller the amplitude, the less sufficient the heating ability. Specifically: ΔT ≥ H indicates that the heating effect meets the expectation, and it is determined that the heating is normal. At this time, the preset water replenishment heating mode can be carried out normally; ΔT < H indicates that the heating effect is insufficient, and it is determined that the heating is abnormal; Among them, H is the preset change threshold.

[0057] As an example, a certain steam box has a preset heating duration N = 20 seconds, a working temperature threshold K = 100°C, the heating start time t0, and the second temperature value Tt0 = 25°C. After heating for 20 seconds, the third temperature value TtN = 110°C.

[0058] Judgment: TtN = 110°C > K = 100°C, directly determine that the heating is normal, enter the water replenishment heating mode, and there is no need to calculate ΔT.

[0059] In combination with the first aspect, after step S122, it further includes: S124. If the third temperature value is less than or equal to the working temperature threshold and the temperature change amount is greater than the preset change amount threshold, it is determined that the steam generator is heating normally, and the preset water replenishment heating mode is executed.

[0060] In step S124, condition 1, "the third temperature value is less than or equal to the working temperature threshold", means that after heating for a preset duration N, the temperature of the steam generator has not reached the preset working temperature threshold K, which means that the device has not entered the working state where steam can be stably generated. The possible reasons for the above situation are: relatively low initial temperature, relatively insufficient heating power, relatively large heat capacity of the evaporation pan, or relatively short preset duration, etc. These factors may cause the temperature not to reach the standard at the end of the detection, but the heating device itself is still working normally.

[0061] Condition 2, "the temperature change amount is greater than the preset change amount threshold", means that although the final temperature does not reach the standard, the temperature rise amplitude within the preset duration reaches the expected minimum requirement, that is, the heating device generates sufficient heat and the temperature rise rate is normal. At this time, △T≥H indicates that the heating device itself is working normally, can effectively generate heat and raise the temperature of the evaporation pan by a significant margin. The reason for the temperature not reaching the standard is not that the heating device fails, but that the starting temperature is relatively low or the heating duration is not enough to make it reach the working temperature.

[0062] As a supplementary channel for judging normal heating in step S124, by comprehensively considering the two conditions of "the final temperature does not reach the standard" and "the temperature change amount reaches the standard", the normal heating state under special working conditions such as cold start is correctly identified, avoiding misjudgment caused by the absolute temperature not reaching the standard.

[0063] Combined with the above example, if after heating for 20 seconds, the third temperature value TtN = 80°C.

[0064] First, it is judged that TtN = 80°C≤K = 100°C. At this time, step S122 is continued to calculate △T = 80 - 25 = 55°C.

[0065] If the preset change amount threshold H = 40°C, then △T = 55°C≥H, it is determined that the heating is normal, and the water replenishment heating mode is entered; If the preset change amount threshold H = 60°C, then △T = 55°C < H, it is determined that the steam generator is in an abnormal heating state.

[0066] Combined with the above example, if after heating for 20 seconds, the third temperature value TtN = 30°C.

[0067] First, it is judged that TtN = 30°C≤K = 100°C. At this time, step S122 is continued to calculate △T = 30 - 25 = 5°C.

[0068] If the preset change amount threshold H = 40°C, then ΔT = 5°C < H, and it is determined that the steam generator is in an abnormal heating state.

[0069] Combined with the first aspect, after step S130, it further includes: S140, feedback the prompt information of the first fault type and the corresponding fault solution.

[0070] After it is determined in step S130 that the steam generator is in an abnormal heating state, the feedback operation of the fault information is further performed. Based on the preset fault classification rules, the heating anomalies caused by the failure of the heating device, insufficient heating power, or faults in the relevant control circuit are classified as the first fault type. The fault information is fed back to the user or the maintenance personnel through a display interface, an indicator light, or a sound prompt, etc. Specifically, it may include a preset fault code (such as E11), a text prompt (such as "Heating device fault"), or a specific indicator light flashing mode. At the same time, the corresponding fault solutions are also provided or associated. For heating anomalies, possible fault causes include damaged heating tubes, failed relays or thyristors, loose or open connection lines, blown fuses, etc. The corresponding solutions cover specific operation steps such as checking the resistance value of the heating tube, testing the suction state of the relay, checking the line connection, and replacing the fuse. These solutions can be presented to the maintenance personnel by means of a built-in maintenance guide in the device, graphic tutorials pushed by the cloud server to the mobile application, or scanning the QR code on the device display screen. Through the above feedback of the fault information, the maintenance personnel can quickly locate the root cause of the problem according to the clear fault type and the targeted solutions and take corresponding maintenance measures, avoiding blind troubleshooting and repeated on-site visits, and improving the maintenance efficiency and user satisfaction. In addition, for intelligent devices with networking functions, the system can also automatically upload the fault information to the after-sales service platform, triggering an active service process, and further improving the response speed and professional level of after-sales service.

[0071] Embodiment 2 Another method for detecting faults in a steam generator provided by an embodiment of the present application. The same steam generator as in Embodiment 1 is provided with a temperature sensor, and the temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the steam generator.

[0072] Combined Figure 2 As shown, the method includes: S210, obtain the first temperature value collected by the temperature sensor.

[0073] S220, if the first temperature value exceeds the preset temperature range, determine that the temperature sensor is in an abnormal state.

[0074] This embodiment is based on the same hardware as Embodiment 1, namely, the steam generator is equipped with a temperature sensor, which is used to detect the temperature of the steam generator. The difference between the two lies in the trigger path of the detection logic: Embodiment 1 handles the detection of the heating function under normal temperature sensor conditions, while this embodiment handles the detection of abnormal temperature sensor conditions.

[0075] Specifically, when the steam generator starts working or enters fault detection mode, the system first reads the current temperature value detected by the temperature sensor installed on the steam generator and records it as the first temperature value. Step S210 is the same as step S110 in Embodiment 1, and the specific temperature sensor type, connection method and installation location are not described here.

[0076] In step S220, the first temperature value obtained in step S210 is compared with a preset temperature range. This preset temperature range corresponds to the reasonable output range of the temperature sensor under normal operating conditions, and its upper and lower thresholds are preset based on the electrical characteristics, physical range, and actual operating temperature range of the steam generator.

[0077] Among these, the physical range refers to the inherent measurement range of temperature sensors. For example, the effective temperature measurement range of commonly used NTC thermistors is typically -40℃ to +300℃. Values ​​outside this range are invalid.

[0078] The actual operating temperature range is the temperature range formed by the steam generator's operation under normal use scenarios, which is usually between room temperature (approximately 0-40℃) and superheated state (approximately 100-150℃). Even in extreme environments or under fault conditions, its temperature is unlikely to be lower than -20℃ or higher than 200℃ (unless extreme situations such as dry burning occur, but the temperature rise in dry burning is also continuous and will not jump directly to the sensor's limit value).

[0079] Based on the above factors, the lower threshold of the preset temperature range can be set slightly higher than the temperature value corresponding to a short circuit in the sensor (e.g., -30℃ or -20℃), and the upper threshold can be set slightly lower than the temperature value corresponding to an open circuit in the sensor (e.g., +200℃ or +250℃). In this way, any reading below the lower threshold can be considered a short circuit anomaly, and any reading above the upper threshold can be considered an open circuit anomaly.

[0080] In conjunction with the first aspect, step S220 includes: S221, if the first temperature value is lower than the lower limit threshold of the temperature range, it is determined that the temperature sensor is in a short-circuit state.

[0081] S222, if the first temperature value is higher than the upper limit threshold of the temperature range, determine that the temperature sensor is in an open circuit state.

[0082] In step S220, when the system determines that the first temperature value exceeds the preset temperature range, the specific abnormality type of the temperature sensor can be further determined according to the direction of the exceedance.

[0083] Step S221: Compare the first temperature value with the lower limit threshold of the preset temperature range. If the first temperature value is lower than the lower limit threshold, the temperature sensor is determined to be in a short-circuit state. A short-circuit state typically refers to the two signal lines of the temperature sensor being directly connected, or an internal breakdown of the sensor causing the resistance value to approach zero. For the NTC thermistor preferably used in this invention, its resistance decreases with increasing temperature, showing a negative correlation. When a short circuit occurs, the output resistance of the temperature sensor is close to 0Ω; according to the resistance-temperature characteristic curve of the NTC, the equivalent temperature corresponding to 0Ω is usually an extremely low value (e.g., -40℃, -50℃ or even lower), far below the lower limit of the temperature that the steam generator may reach during normal operation or standby (e.g., -10℃ or room temperature). At this time, the temperature signal read by the controller shows an abnormally low value jump or a continuously low value.

[0084] Step S222 compares the first temperature value with the upper limit threshold of the preset temperature range. If the first temperature value is higher than the upper limit threshold, the temperature sensor is determined to be in an open circuit state. An open circuit state typically refers to a broken signal line, loose connector, or internal burnout of the temperature sensor, resulting in a broken circuit and a resistance value approaching infinity. For NTC thermistors, the output resistance of the temperature sensor in this state is close to... The corresponding converted temperature is usually an extremely high value (e.g., +250℃, +300℃, or even the maximum value of the sensor range), which is much higher than the upper temperature limit of the steam generator when it is working normally (e.g., 150℃ or below 200℃ in dry-burning state). At this time, the temperature signal read by the controller will show an abnormally high value jump or a continuous high value, and sometimes it will be directly displayed as the upper limit value of the sensor range.

[0085] Thus, once a temperature sensor malfunction is confirmed, it can be further subdivided into two specific types: short circuit and open circuit. A short circuit typically indicates a short circuit to ground, insulation damage, or sensor breakdown; an open circuit typically indicates a broken wire, loose connectors, or a burned-out sensor. Different causes of the fault correspond to different repair procedures.

[0086] In conjunction with the first aspect, after step S220, the following also includes: S230 provides feedback on the second fault type and the corresponding fault solution.

[0087] After determining in step S220 that the temperature sensor is in an abnormal state (including short circuit or open circuit), the system can provide or associate corresponding fault solutions while or after providing fault information.

[0088] As an feasible approach, preset fault codes can be displayed on the display screen of the cooking equipment. For example, "E01" indicates a sensor short circuit and "E02" indicates a sensor open circuit. The fault codes make it easy for maintenance personnel to quickly consult the maintenance manual for detailed information.

[0089] As another feasible approach, a text message can be displayed directly, such as "Temperature sensor failure: short circuit" or "Temperature sensor failure: open circuit".

[0090] As another feasible approach, different fault types can be indicated by fault indicator lights on the equipment using specific flashing frequencies or colors. For example, a fast-flashing red light indicates a short circuit, while a slow-flashing red light indicates an open circuit. As another feasible approach, a buzzer can be used to emit an alarm sound with a specific rhythm, such as a short beep to indicate a short circuit and a long beep to indicate an open circuit.

[0091] It is understandable that the above prompts can be selected and added according to actual needs. This is just an example and is not a limitation.

[0092] Furthermore, corresponding troubleshooting solutions can be provided or associated with the fault information provided at the same time or afterward. As one feasible approach, maintenance guidance information can be pre-stored in the cooking equipment's memory, allowing maintenance personnel to access the corresponding solution text on the display screen via specific operations (such as key combinations).

[0093] As another feasible approach, for smart devices with internet connectivity, the system can upload fault codes to a cloud server, and the server can then push corresponding solutions to the maintenance personnel's mobile applications based on the fault codes.

[0094] As another feasible approach, the cooking equipment display screen shows a QR code containing fault information, which repair personnel can scan to view detailed repair guidance videos or text instructions on their mobile phones.

[0095] All of the above methods can be implemented; they are merely examples and not intended to limit the scope of the application.

[0096] As an example, solutions for short circuits in temperature sensor malfunctions include, but are not limited to: A. Checking whether the temperature sensor wiring is short-circuited to ground due to damage, water ingress, or other reasons; B. Checking whether the temperature sensor connector is damp or contains foreign objects that could cause a short circuit; if the external wiring is normal, the sensor is determined to be internally short-circuited and needs to be replaced; C. If the external wiring is normal, the sensor is determined to be internally short-circuited and needs to be replaced.

[0097] For open-circuit faults in temperature sensors, possible solutions include, but are not limited to: A. Checking if the temperature sensor wiring is loose or not properly inserted; B. Checking if the temperature sensor is broken, especially at bent or heated parts; C. Measuring the resistance of the temperature sensor with a multimeter. If the resistance is infinite, the sensor is internally burned out and needs to be replaced.

[0098] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a cooking device, which includes a steam generator, a temperature sensor, and a controller.

[0099] A steam generator is installed inside the cooking equipment.

[0100] A temperature sensor is installed on the steam generator to detect the temperature of the steam generator.

[0101] The controller, electrically connected to the temperature sensor and the steam generator, is configured to perform the methods described above for detecting steam generator malfunctions.

[0102] A steam generator typically includes an evaporation plate and a heating element. The heating element heats the evaporation plate, causing the water inside to boil and generate steam. A temperature sensor detects the temperature of the steam generator and transmits the data to a controller. The controller then executes the aforementioned methods to enable the cooking equipment to accurately locate and quickly diagnose steam generator malfunctions. This effectively distinguishes between sensor malfunctions and heating malfunctions, providing clear guidance for after-sales maintenance and improving repair efficiency and user satisfaction.

[0103] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide an electronic device, combined with Figure 3 As shown, the electronic device includes a memory 131 and a processor 130. The memory 131 stores a computer program, and the processor 130 runs the computer program to make the electronic device perform the above-described method.

[0104] Furthermore, combined Figure 3 The electronic device shown also includes a bus 132 and a communication interface 133, with the processor 130, the communication interface 133 and the memory 131 connected via the bus 132.

[0105] The memory 131 may include high-speed random access memory (RAM) and may also include non-volatile memory, such as at least one disk storage device. Communication between this system network element and at least one other network element is achieved through at least one communication interface 133 (which can be wired or wireless), such as the Internet, wide area network, local area network, metropolitan area network, etc. The bus 132 may be an ISA bus, PCI bus, or EISA bus, etc. The bus can be divided into address bus, data bus, control bus, etc. For ease of representation, Figure 3 The symbol is represented by a single double-headed arrow, but this does not mean that there is only one bus or one type of bus.

[0106] Processor 130 may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. In implementation, each step of the above method can be completed by the integrated logic circuitry in the hardware of processor 130 or by instructions in software form. Processor 130 may be a general-purpose processor, including a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a Network Processor (NP), etc.; it may also be a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. It can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this invention. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this invention can be directly manifested as execution by a hardware decoding processor, or execution by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software module can reside in a mature storage medium in the art, such as random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, or registers. This storage medium is located in memory 131, and processor 130 reads the information in memory 131 and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the method described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0107] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a readable storage medium storing computer program instructions, which are read and executed by a processor to perform the above-described method.

[0108] 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.

[0109] Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise explicitly 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 the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0110] 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 invention, essentially, 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 invention. 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.

[0111] In the description of this invention, 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 the invention and for 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 the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0112] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are merely specific implementations of the present invention, used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit it. The scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Although the present invention 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 technical scope disclosed in the present invention, or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features; and these 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 the present invention, and should all be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for detecting faults in a steam generator, characterized in that, The steam generator is equipped with a temperature sensor, which is used to detect the temperature of the steam generator. The method includes: Obtain the first temperature value collected by the temperature sensor; If the first temperature value is within a preset temperature range, obtain the temperature change within a preset heating time of the steam generator; If the temperature change is less than a preset change threshold, the steam generator is determined to be in an abnormal heating state.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam generator is also connected to a water pump; Before the step of acquiring the first temperature value collected by the temperature sensor, the following steps are also included: The water pump is turned on to remove the residual water from the steam generator.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the temperature change within a preset heating time of the steam generator includes: Obtain the second temperature value at the start of heating of the steam generator and the third temperature value after heating for the preset duration; The difference between the third temperature value and the second temperature value is calculated to obtain the temperature change.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, After obtaining the second temperature value at the start of heating of the steam generator and the third temperature value after heating for the preset duration, the method further includes: If the third temperature value is greater than the preset operating temperature threshold, it is determined that the steam generator is heating normally and the preset water replenishment heating mode is executed.

5. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, After calculating the difference between the third temperature value and the second temperature value to obtain the temperature change, the method further includes: If the third temperature value is less than or equal to the operating temperature threshold, and the temperature change is greater than the preset change threshold, the steam generator is determined to be heating normally, and the preset water replenishment heating mode is executed.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the temperature change is less than a preset threshold, after determining that the steam generator is in an abnormal heating state, the method further includes: Provide feedback on the first type of fault and the corresponding fault solution.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, After obtaining the first temperature value collected by the temperature sensor, the method further includes: If the first temperature value exceeds the preset temperature range, the temperature sensor is determined to be in an abnormal state.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, If the first temperature value exceeds the preset temperature range, the step of determining that the temperature sensor is in an abnormal state includes: If the first temperature value is lower than the lower limit threshold of the temperature range, it is determined that the temperature sensor is in a short-circuit state; If the first temperature value is higher than the upper threshold of the temperature range, the temperature sensor is determined to be in an open circuit state.

9. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, If the first temperature value exceeds the preset temperature range, after determining that the temperature sensor is in an abnormal state, the method further includes: Provide feedback on the second type of fault and the corresponding fault solution.

10. A cooking device, characterized in that, The cooking equipment includes: A steam generator is installed inside the cooking equipment; A temperature sensor is installed on the steam generator to detect the temperature of the steam generator; A controller, electrically connected to the temperature sensor and the steam generator, is configured to perform the method for detecting a steam generator malfunction as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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