Electric steam box water quantity control method and device, electric steam box and storage medium

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of electrical equipment, and discloses an electric steam box water quantity control method and device, an electric steam box and a storage medium, and the method comprises the steps: responding to a determined target cooking program, and obtaining an expected water level of a water tank corresponding to the target cooking program; based on the expected water level, controlling the electric steamer to operate the target cooking program, and determining the water level consumed by the water tank in the operation process of the target cooking program; based on the size relation between the consumed water level and the expected water level, the expected water level of the water tank corresponding to the target cooking program is adjusted, so that the electric steam box is controlled to operate the target cooking program based on the updated expected water level at the next time; the problem that in the long-term use process of the electric steam box, due to the fact that the steam utilization efficiency is reduced, the expected water level needed by cooking deviates is effectively solved, self-adaptive adjustment of the expected water level of the cooking program is achieved, the cooking effect is guaranteed, and the cooking effect is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electrical equipment technology, specifically to a method and device for controlling water volume in an electric steamer, an electric steamer, and a storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] During the lifespan of an electric steam oven, some objective factors may cause a decrease in steam utilization efficiency. This can lead to deviations in the expected water level data recorded during the factory design phase after long-term use. When using the steam oven, comparing the water level with the fixed expected water level data may result in a discrepancy between the actual expected water level and the expected water level designed at the factory, thus affecting the cooking effect. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention provides a method, device, steamer, and storage medium for controlling water volume in an electric steamer, in order to solve the problem of poor cooking results caused by the lack of a method for timely correction of fixed desired water level data.

[0004] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a method for controlling the water volume of an electric steamer, the electric steamer comprising: a water tank, the method comprising:

[0005] In response to a defined target cooking program, the desired water level in the water tank corresponding to the target cooking program is obtained; Based on the desired water level, the electric steamer is controlled to run the target cooking program, and the water level consumed by the water tank during the operation of the target cooking program is determined. Based on the relationship between the consumed water level and the desired water level, the desired water level in the water tank corresponding to the target cooking program is adjusted so that the electric steamer can control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program in the next cycle based on the updated desired water level.

[0006] This invention determines the target cooking program and the desired water level in the corresponding water tank. Based on the desired water level, it controls the electric steamer to run the target cooking program. During operation, it determines the water level consumed by the water tank and adjusts the desired water level according to the relationship between the consumed water level and the desired water level. This allows the electric steamer to run the target cooking program again based on the updated cooking program. It is suitable for cooking various ingredients. By monitoring the water tank's water consumption, it effectively solves the problem of deviations in the desired water level for cooking caused by the decline in steam utilization efficiency during long-term use of electric steamers. It achieves adaptive adjustment of the desired water level for the cooking program to ensure cooking results, avoids the risk of dry burning due to insufficient water level, and reduces water waste. This makes operation safer, more energy-efficient, and improves cooking results.

[0007] In one alternative implementation, the electric steamer is controlled to run a target cooking program based on a desired water level, including: Obtain the initial water level in the water tank; When the difference between the initial water level and the desired water level is determined to be no less than the preset water level threshold, the electric steamer is controlled to run the target cooking program. When the difference between the initial water level and the desired water level is less than the preset water level threshold, water is added to the water tank until the water level in the tank reaches the sum of the desired water level and the preset water level threshold, and then the electric steamer is controlled to run the target cooking program.

[0008] This invention compares the difference between the initial water level and the desired water level in the water tank with a preset water level threshold. When the initial water level is not less than the preset water level threshold, the electric steamer is controlled to run the target cooking program. This ensures the cooking effect while avoiding dry burning when the initial water level is less than the preset water level threshold, thus improving the cooking efficiency of the electric steamer and ensuring its operational safety.

[0009] In one optional implementation, adjusting the desired water level corresponding to the target cooking program based on the relationship between the consumed water level and the desired water level includes: When it is determined that the water level consumed is greater than the expected water level, the expected water level is increased to obtain the updated expected water level. When it is determined that the water level consumed is not greater than the expected water level, the expected water level corresponding to the target cooking program is adjusted based on the expected water level and the water level margin corresponding to the expected water level to obtain the updated expected water level.

[0010] This invention increases the desired water level when the consumed water level exceeds the desired water level, so that the desired water level stored in the system matches the water level requirements actually consumed during the target cooking program. When the consumed water level does not exceed the desired water level, the desired water level is adjusted based on the desired water level and the corresponding water level margin, thereby ensuring the safety of the next cooking session.

[0011] In one optional implementation, adjusting the desired water level corresponding to the target cooking program based on the desired water level and the corresponding water level margin to obtain an updated desired water level includes: Determine the margin coefficient for the desired water level; the margin coefficient is greater than 0 and less than 1. The water level margin is determined by multiplying the margin coefficient by the expected water level. When it is determined that the sum of the consumed water level and the remaining water level is not less than the desired water level, the desired water level shall be maintained unchanged. When the water level consumed and the water level margin are both less than the expected water level, the expected water level is updated by reducing the expected water level based on the water level margin.

[0012] This invention determines the margin coefficient of the desired water level, and then calculates the water level margin based on the product of the margin coefficient and the desired water level. By analyzing the relationship between the sum of the consumed water level and the water level margin and the desired water level, the desired water level is adjusted or maintained, thereby improving the reliability of adjusting the desired water level. This ensures that the water level in the tank, which is estimated in advance before the cooking program starts, can support the cooking program until it ends, thus improving the operating efficiency of the electric steamer.

[0013] In one optional implementation, determining the desired water level corresponding to the target cooking procedure includes: Obtain the target amount of water required for the target cooking program; Based on the target water volume and the bottom area of ​​the water tank, calculate the desired water level corresponding to the target cooking program.

[0014] This invention obtains the target water volume and then calculates the desired water level based on the target water volume and the bottom area of ​​the water tank, providing accurate data for subsequent adjustment of the desired water level.

[0015] In one alternative implementation, the method further includes: Obtain the input cooking time and cooking temperature, and determine the target cooking program based on the cooking time and cooking temperature; Alternatively, in response to a user's selection in a preset program menu, the target cooking program can be determined based on the selection.

[0016] In this invention, the user can start the electric steamer cooking program, input the cooking time and steam temperature, or select a preset menu program and click to start the program, providing the user with a variety of cooking options to meet the user's personalized needs.

[0017] In one alternative implementation, determining the water level consumed by the tank during the operation of the target cooking program includes: The first water level at the start of the target cooking program and the second water level at the end of the program are monitored using a continuous liquid level electrode meter. The water level consumed is determined based on the difference between the first and second water levels.

[0018] This invention monitors the water level during the target cooking process using a continuous liquid level electrode meter, thereby determining the water level consumed and providing reliable data support for subsequent steps, making the electric steamer more reliable in operation.

[0019] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a water volume control device for an electric steamer, the electric steamer comprising: a water tank, the device comprising: The determination module is used to obtain the desired water level in the water tank corresponding to the determined target cooking program in response to the determined target cooking program. The control module is used to control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program based on the desired water level, and to determine the water level consumed by the water tank during the operation of the target cooking program. The update module is used to adjust the desired water level of the water tank corresponding to the target cooking program based on the relationship between the consumed water level and the desired water level, so that the electric steamer can control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program in the next cycle based on the updated desired water level.

[0020] Thirdly, the present invention provides an electric steamer, which includes a water tank and a controller, the controller comprising: The memory and the processor are interconnected and communicate with each other. The memory stores computer instructions, and the processor executes the computer instructions to perform the method described in the first aspect or any of its corresponding embodiments.

[0021] Fourthly, the present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for causing a computer to perform the method described in the first aspect or any corresponding embodiment thereof. Attached Figure Description

[0022] 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.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an application scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the first method for controlling the water volume of an electric steamer according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a second process for controlling the water volume of an electric steamer according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a system connection diagram of an electric steamer according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of a continuous liquid level electrode gauge in an electric steamer according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the implementation of the water volume control method for an electric steamer according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 This is a flowchart of the development stages of the water volume control method for an electric steamer according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8This is a flowchart of the user operation steps of the water volume control method for an electric steamer according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a structural block diagram of the water volume control device for an electric steamer according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the controller of the electric steamer according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0024] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments 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.

[0025] It is understood that before using the technical solutions disclosed in the various embodiments of the present invention, users should be informed of the types, scope of use, and usage scenarios of the personal information involved in the present invention and their authorization should be obtained in accordance with relevant laws and regulations through appropriate means.

[0026] The terms "first" and "second" 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. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0027] As an optional application scenario of this invention, such as Figure 1 As shown, the electric steamer includes a controller 101, a water tank 102, and a continuous level electrode 103. The continuous level electrode 103 is used to monitor the water level in the water tank 102. The controller 101 is used to execute the water volume control method of the electric steamer. The overall process of the controller 101 executing the water volume control method of the electric steamer is detailed in the relevant description of the method embodiment below, and will not be repeated hereafter.

[0028] As a commonly used kitchen appliance, the water level warning in the electric steam oven directly affects the baking results and user experience. Due to the limited water tank capacity, it's very common for cooking to be interrupted midway through operation because of insufficient water. This not only affects the quality of the food but may also reduce user satisfaction.

[0029] Currently, most commercially available methods use evaporator temperature monitoring to issue water shortage alarms, but lack effective means for real-time monitoring of the water level in the electric steamer tank and providing further warnings. Furthermore, using a traditional single electrode cannot obtain real-time water level changes; it can only detect high or low water levels to meet the water shortage warning requirement.

[0030] This embodiment focuses on real-time water level monitoring, which has the advantage of reducing the tedious work of manually measuring water level changes during the product development phase. During development, software reads the real-time water level information from a continuous liquid level electrode gauge, and then an algorithm calculates the estimated water consumption for each cooking menu during actual use. During product use, by monitoring the real-time water level, it is possible to predict in advance whether the water level in the tank will be sufficient to sustain cooking until the end, and an early alarm can be issued to notify the user.

[0031] Therefore, this embodiment provides a device and method for real-time detection of the water level in the electric steamer's water tank. Combined with the electric steamer's water volume control method, it can provide early warning of the water level in the electric steamer's water tank based on the user-set cooking program, and inform the user in advance during the cooking parameter setting stage that the water level in the water tank is insufficient to support the completion of the latest cooking conditions set by the user.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an embodiment of a water volume control method for an electric steamer is provided. It should be noted that the steps shown in the flowchart in the accompanying drawings can be executed in a computer system such as a set of computer-executable instructions. Furthermore, although a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases, the steps shown or described may be executed in a different order than that shown here.

[0033] This embodiment provides a water volume control method for an electric steamer, which can be used in the aforementioned electric steamer. Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of the first method for controlling the water volume of an electric steamer according to an embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 2 As shown, the process includes the following steps: Step S201: In response to the determined target cooking program, obtain the desired water level in the water tank corresponding to the target cooking program.

[0034] It should be noted that the target cooking program is a specific cooking program selected by the user or built into the electric steamer. The target cooking program includes a series of parameters, such as temperature and time. Exemplary target cooking programs include, but are not limited to, steaming and roasting potatoes, steaming and roasting chicken, etc.

[0035] The water tank is a container used to store cooking water and plays a key role when the electric steamer is running the cooking program. The exemplary function of the water tank includes, but is not limited to, providing steam.

[0036] It should be noted that different cooking programs have different requirements for the amount of steam or water, and therefore the required water level in the water tank will also be different.

[0037] The desired water level is the total water level required to complete the target cooking process, which is calculated from the total amount of water required to complete the target cooking process.

[0038] In this embodiment, the desired water level can be the desired water level corresponding to the cooking program determined by the system through multiple samplings of cooking time, actual water volume required, and actual water level corresponding to the actual water volume during the cooking program operation. For example, it can be stored in the program menu inside the system, where the program, its parameters, and the desired water volume correspond one-to-one.

[0039] Step S202: Based on the desired water level, control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program and determine the water level consumed by the water tank during the operation of the target cooking program.

[0040] It should be noted that the target cooking program of the electric steamer is controlled based on the desired water level, and the desired water level is met.

[0041] During the target cooking program, the water level in the tank is monitored in real time to determine the water level consumed during the process. The water level consumed is the actual amount of water removed from the tank after the target cooking program has finished running, which is determined after the program ends.

[0042] Step S203: Based on the relationship between the consumed water level and the desired water level, adjust the desired water level of the water tank corresponding to the target cooking program so that the electric steamer can control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program in the next cycle based on the updated desired water level.

[0043] It should be noted that when the water level consumed is greater than the expected water level, it means there is a risk of dry burning, and the expected water level corresponding to the target cooking program needs to be increased; when the water level consumed is less than the expected water level, it means that the expected water level corresponding to the target cooking program is set too high, and to avoid unnecessary water replenishment or energy waste, the expected water level corresponding to the target cooking program needs to be decreased; when the water level consumed is equal to the expected water level, it means that the expected water level corresponding to the currently stored target cooking program is accurate and no adjustment is needed.

[0044] Before the next run of the target cooking program, the electric steamer is controlled to run the target cooking program based on the updated desired water level.

[0045] It should be noted that, theoretically, after the target cooking program of the electric steamer is completed, the water level consumed by the water tank should correspond to the expected water level. However, due to long-term use of the electric steamer, factors such as the performance of the steamer and the aging of its functional components can lead to discrepancies between the actual water level consumed and the expected water level. For example, there may be a remaining water level after the program is completed, or the actual water level consumed may be higher than the stored expected water level. Therefore, in this embodiment, to solve these problems, it is necessary to compare the consumed water level with the expected water level, thereby adjusting the expected water level of the water tank corresponding to the target cooking program stored in the system. This ensures that the actual required water level matches the expected water level stored in the system, effectively improving the cooking effect of the electric steamer.

[0046] The water level control method for electric steam ovens provided in this embodiment determines the target cooking program and the desired water level in the corresponding water tank. Based on the desired water level, the method controls the electric steam oven to run the target cooking program. During operation, the water level consumed by the water tank is determined, and the desired water level is adjusted according to the relationship between the consumed water level and the desired water level. This allows the electric steam oven to run the target cooking program again based on the updated cooking program. This method is suitable for cooking various ingredients. By monitoring the water level consumed by the water tank, it effectively solves the problem of deviation in the desired water level for cooking caused by the decrease in steam utilization efficiency during long-term use of electric steam ovens. It achieves adaptive adjustment of the desired water level for cooking programs to ensure cooking results, avoids the risk of dry burning due to insufficient water level, and reduces water waste. This makes the operation safer, more energy-efficient, and improves the cooking effect.

[0047] This embodiment provides a water volume control method for an electric steamer, which can be used in the aforementioned electric steamer. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a second process for controlling the water volume of an electric steamer according to an embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 3 As shown, the process includes the following steps: Step S301: In response to the determined target cooking program, obtain the desired water level in the water tank corresponding to the target cooking program.

[0048] Specifically, step S301 includes: Step S3011: Obtain the target amount of water required for the target cooking program.

[0049] For example, in the cooking program menu of the electric steamer, the cooking parameters of the target cooking program are pre-stored, and the required target water volume is obtained from the cooking parameters. The target water volume refers to the volume of water required to complete the target cooking program.

[0050] It should be noted that the target water volume is the total water volume required to complete the cooking program corresponding to the target cooking procedure. The target water volume is not simply for adding water or other operations, but rather a comprehensive target water volume that integrates culinary science, ingredient types, quantities, and other factors throughout the entire cooking process. In some implementations, the target water volume can be calculated more precisely based on various taste and other factors of a cooking program.

[0051] Step S3012: Calculate the desired water level corresponding to the target cooking program based on the target water volume and the bottom area of ​​the water tank.

[0052] It should be noted that the bottom area of ​​a water tank refers to the cross-sectional area of ​​the bottom of the tank. For example, the desired water level can be calculated by the ratio of the target water volume to the bottom area.

[0053] In this embodiment, by obtaining the target water volume, the desired water level is calculated based on the target water volume and the bottom area of ​​the water tank, providing accurate data for subsequent adjustment of the desired water level.

[0054] Step S302: Based on the desired water level, control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program and determine the water level consumed by the water tank during the operation of the target cooking program.

[0055] Specifically, step S302 includes: Step S3021: Obtain the initial water level in the water tank.

[0056] The initial water level in the tank refers to the actual water level in the tank before the target cooking program is started.

[0057] Step S3022: When it is determined that the difference between the initial water level and the desired water level is not less than the preset water level threshold, control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program.

[0058] It should be noted that the preset water level threshold can be 0, or in some optional implementations it can be presented as a percentage.

[0059] The difference between the initial water level and the desired water level is not less than the preset water level threshold, which means that the current water level in the water tank can meet the operation of the target cooking program. After the target cooking program is completed, there will be a certain water level margin in the water tank. At this time, it is safe to control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program.

[0060] Step S3023: When it is determined that the difference between the initial water level and the desired water level is less than the preset water level threshold, water is added to the water tank until the water level in the water tank reaches the sum of the desired water level and the preset water level threshold, and then the electric steamer is controlled to run the target cooking program.

[0061] If the difference between the initial water level and the desired water level is less than the preset water level threshold, it means that the current water level in the tank is insufficient to support the operation of the target cooking program, and water needs to be added to the tank.

[0062] The process involves replenishing water into the tank until the water level reaches the sum of the desired water level and the preset water level threshold, meaning that only the amount of water needed is replenished.

[0063] For example, when the difference between the initial water level and the desired water level is less than a preset water level threshold, the water tank water volume warning mechanism is triggered, the buzzer sounds, and the warning code E01 is displayed on the screen.

[0064] In this embodiment, by comparing the difference between the initial water level and the desired water level in the water tank with a preset water level threshold, the electric steamer is controlled to run the target cooking program when the initial water level is not less than the preset water level threshold. This ensures the cooking effect while avoiding dry burning when the initial water level is less than the preset water level threshold, thereby improving the cooking efficiency of the electric steamer and ensuring the safety of its operation.

[0065] Step S3024: Monitor the first water level at the start of the target cooking program and the second water level at the end of the program based on a continuous liquid level electrode meter.

[0066] It should be noted that continuous level gauges continuously calculate the current water level by measuring the capacitance change between the part of the electrode submerged in water and the water surface. Typically, continuous level gauges are measuring electrode rods installed vertically in the water tank.

[0067] The first water level is the water level height recorded by the continuous liquid level electrode when the target cooking program starts, and the second water level is the water level height recorded by the continuous liquid level electrode after the target cooking program ends.

[0068] Step S3025: Determine the water level consumed based on the difference between the first water level and the second water level.

[0069] The water level consumed in the tank is determined by the difference between the first water level and the second water level.

[0070] In this embodiment, the water level during the target cooking program is monitored by a continuous liquid level electrode meter to determine the water level consumed, providing reliable data support for subsequent steps and making the electric steamer more reliable.

[0071] Step S303: Based on the relationship between the consumed water level and the desired water level, adjust the desired water level of the water tank corresponding to the target cooking program so that the electric steamer can control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program in the next cycle based on the updated desired water level.

[0072] Specifically, step S303 includes: Step S3031: When it is determined that the consumed water level is greater than the expected water level, the expected water level is increased to obtain the updated expected water level.

[0073] For example, increasing the water level by 5% from the originally desired level is appropriate. In some other implementations, further adjustments can be made based on actual operating conditions.

[0074] Step S3032: When it is determined that the water level consumed is not greater than the expected water level, the expected water level corresponding to the target cooking program is adjusted based on the expected water level and the water level margin corresponding to the expected water level to obtain the updated expected water level.

[0075] It should be noted that when it is determined that the water level consumed is not greater than the desired water level, a water level margin is introduced to optimize the desired water level. This ensures that the adjustment is gradual and exploratory, avoiding excessive reduction due to accidental errors that may occur in a single measurement, thereby ensuring the safety of the next cooking.

[0076] In this embodiment, when the water consumption level is greater than the desired water level, the desired water level is increased so that the desired water level stored in the system meets the water level requirements actually consumed during the operation of the target cooking program. When the water consumption level is not greater than the desired water level, the desired water level is adjusted based on the desired water level and the water level margin corresponding to the desired water level, thereby ensuring the safety of the next cooking.

[0077] Specifically, step S3032 includes: Step a1: Determine the margin coefficient for the desired water level. The margin coefficient is greater than 0 and less than 1.

[0078] For example, when the actual water consumption is less than 80% of the expected water consumption, the margin coefficient is 0.2. This means that if the actual water consumption is less than 80% of the expected water consumption, there may be a situation where too much water is reserved, i.e., after the target cooking program is completed, the water level margin corresponding to the expected water level exceeds 20%.

[0079] Step a2: Determine the water level margin based on the product of the margin coefficient and the desired water level.

[0080] For example, 0.2 multiplied by the desired water level gives the water level margin, and the updated desired water level is equal to the desired water level minus the water level margin.

[0081] Step a3: When it is determined that the sum of the consumed water level and the remaining water level is not less than the desired water level, the desired water level is maintained unchanged.

[0082] For example, if the desired water level is 1000 ml, and after running the target cooking program, the water level consumed is measured to be 850 ml, then the water level margin is calculated: 1000 multiplied by 0.2 equals 200 ml. It is determined that the sum of the consumed water level of 850 ml and the water level margin of 200 ml is not less than the desired water level, and the desired water level is maintained unchanged.

[0083] Step a4: When it is determined that the consumed water level and the water level reserve are less than the expected water level, the expected water level is reduced based on the water level reserve to obtain the updated expected water level.

[0084] For example, if the desired water level is 1000 ml, and after running the target cooking program, the water level consumed is measured to be 750 ml, then the water level margin is calculated: 1000 multiplied by 0.2 equals 200 ml. It is determined that the sum of the consumed water level of 750 ml and the water level margin of 200 ml is less than the desired water level. Therefore, based on the water level margin of 200 ml, the desired water level is reduced to obtain the updated desired water level. The updated desired water level is 800 ml, that is, 1000 ml minus 200 ml equals 800 ml.

[0085] In this embodiment, by determining the margin coefficient of the desired water level, the water level margin is calculated based on the product of the margin coefficient and the desired water level. The desired water level is adjusted or maintained by the relationship between the sum of the consumed water level and the water level margin and the desired water level, thereby improving the reliability of adjusting the desired water level. This ensures that the water level in the tank, which is estimated in advance before the cooking program starts, can support the cooking program until it ends, thus improving the operating efficiency of the electric steamer.

[0086] Step S304: Obtain the input cooking time and cooking temperature, and determine the target cooking program based on the cooking time and cooking temperature.

[0087] For example, the cooking time and temperature can be input via the function buttons on the electric steamer, or input via the display panel on the electric steamer. The system can generate a corresponding target cooking program based on the input cooking time and temperature, or if there is a cooking program in the program menu that matches the input cooking time and temperature, the matching cooking program will be selected as the target cooking program.

[0088] Step S305: In response to the user's selection operation in the preset program menu, determine the target cooking program based on the selection operation.

[0089] For example, in an electric steamer that includes an operating interface, the user selects a cooking program from a preset program menu presented on the operating interface to determine the target cooking program.

[0090] It should be noted that the relationship between step S304 and step S305 is OR.

[0091] In this embodiment, the user can start the electric steamer cooking program, input the cooking time and steam temperature, or select a preset menu program and click to start the program, providing the user with a variety of cooking options to meet the user's personalized needs.

[0092] As an application embodiment of the present invention, the following is combined with Figures 4 to 8 This embodiment is described in detail.

[0093] For example, such as Figure 4 The diagram shows the system connection of the electric steamer. Figure 5 The diagram shows the installation of a continuous liquid level electrode in an electric steamer, including a water tank 102 and a continuous liquid level electrode 103.

[0094] The water control system for the electric steamer includes: a continuous level electrode meter for monitoring the water level in the tank; the steamer body for baking food; a computer board and processor for processing water level information and providing real-time early warning detection of the water level in the tank; and an external memory for storing key values ​​of the corrected water level measurement function.

[0095] The structure and working principle of the continuous liquid level electrode gauge are as follows: Measuring electrode: A bare metal electrode; Grounding electrode: container wall.

[0096] Capacitance measurement module: The core of this module is to detect the capacitance value of the capacitor formed by the "measuring electrode, liquid, and grounding electrode".

[0097] Working principle: Pure water itself is non-conductive or has very poor conductivity, but it can act as a "dielectric of a capacitor". The measuring electrode and the grounding electrode form the two plates of a capacitor, and the liquid can act as the dielectric between the plates. Using a capacitive level gauge can largely avoid the problems of poor conductivity and inaccurate level measurement caused by tap water consumed in the daily use of electric steamers.

[0098] The higher the liquid level, the larger the volume occupied by the liquid (dielectric constant ε) between the plates, and the smaller the volume occupied by air ε1. Since the capacitance C is directly proportional to the dielectric constant ε, the higher the liquid level, the larger the capacitance. Therefore, the change in capacitance can be measured by a high-frequency oscillation circuit and converted into a standard electrical signal, thus enabling continuous liquid level measurement.

[0099] For example, such as Figure 6 The flowchart shown below illustrates the implementation process of the water volume control method for an electric steamer, which includes the following steps: Step 1: The user starts the cooking program of the electric steamer, enters the cooking time and steam temperature or selects the preset menu program, and clicks to start the program; Step 2: The processor obtains the real-time water level data R(t) through a continuous liquid level electrode gauge and its sampling circuit; the processor calculates the estimated amount of water required to complete the current cooking based on the cooking program input in Step 1, and then converts it into the estimated desired water level data P. Step 3: The processor compares the real-time water level data Rs with the desired water level data P. If Rs < P, the water tank water volume warning mechanism is triggered, the buzzer sounds, and the display screen shows the warning code E01; if Rs > P, it continues to work; Exemplarily, the real-time water level data Rs is the real-time water level data R(t) obtained through the continuous liquid level electrode gauge and its sampling circuit in Step 1.

[0100] Step 4: After the user receives the warning code E01, water needs to be added to the water tank to eliminate the warning. After manually adding water, it will return to Step 2 to continue the next step.

[0101] Program Adaptive Correction: During the service life of the steam oven, some objective factors may cause the steam utilization efficiency to decrease. Objective factors such as the aging of the door seal ring causing steam to leak out of the cavity of the steam oven, the aging of the evaporation pipe, and the accumulation of water scale in the water tank, etc. These phenomena are likely to cause the desired water level value P recorded during the factory design stage to deviate easily after the steam oven has been used for many years, thus affecting the cooking effect.

[0102] Introducing an adaptive correction algorithm can well solve this problem, which is described as: After the user finishes cooking each time, record the water consumption Wi corresponding to the current menu duration (i represents different menus), Wi = [R (real-time water level) – L (remaining water level)] × S, where L is the remaining water level at the end of cooking, and taking a cuboid water tank as an example, S is the bottom area.

[0103] Compare Wi with Pi. If (Wi / S) > Pi, increase Pi (the desired water level corresponding to this cooking program). Generally speaking, it is appropriate to increase the menu desired water level value Pi by 5% based on the original; if (Wi / S) < Pi × 0.8 and the margin of the desired water level value Pi exceeds 20%, then reduce the menu desired water level value Pi by 20%.

[0104] Store the Pi value after adaptive correction in the external storage FLASH area.

[0105] Exemplarily, as Figure 7 shown, the flowchart of the development stage of the water volume control method for the steam oven; After assembling the whole machine and accurately installing this device, developers can use this device to understand in advance the water consumption Wi during the cooking process of different menus. It must be mentioned that since there are differences in steam temperature and cooking time for different menus, and steam temperature and cooking time will produce decisive changes in the water consumption for cooking, developers need to record various data such as water consumption by the computer board during the cooking effect test stage of the product. This can be easily achieved through the debugging program using this device, and the test data can be directly stored in the internal storage area of the computer board FLASH for programmers to use when developing the formal product subsequently.

[0106] Electric steam box whole machine development stage: Conduct cooking tests according to the menus to be developed. Taking the potato menu as an example: Put potatoes of a fixed weight into the electric steam box for cooking. The water consumption data during cooking is measured by a continuous liquid level electrode gauge and recorded in the external memory data of the computer board. Thus, the cooking test for this menu is completed.

[0107] Exemplarily, as Figure 8 shown, the user operation step flow chart of the water volume control method for the electric steam box; The specific ways for users to use include: Step 1: The user starts the cooking program of the electric steam box, inputs the cooking time and steam temperature or selects a preset menu program, and clicks to start the program; Step 2: The processor obtains the real-time water level data R(t) through the continuous liquid level electrode gauge and its sampling circuit; The processor calculates the estimated water volume required to complete this cooking according to the cooking program input in Step 1, and then converts it into the estimated desired water level data P; Step 3: Compare the real-time water level data R with the desired water level data P. If R < P, trigger the water tank water volume warning mechanism, the buzzer sounds, and the display screen shows the warning code E01; If R > P, continue to work. Among them, the real-time water level data R is the real-time water level data R(t) obtained through the continuous liquid level electrode gauge and its sampling circuit in Step 1.

[0108] Step 4: After the user receives the warning code E01, water needs to be added to the water tank to eliminate the warning. After manually adding water, it will return to Step 2 to continue the next step.

[0109] In this embodiment, an electric steam box control device and method with water tank water level monitoring and warning are provided for electric steam box water level warning to optimize the user experience.

[0110] By using a continuous liquid level electrode gauge to monitor the water level in the tank and providing real-time alerts based on the cooking status, this solves the problem of electric steam ovens pausing cooking due to water shortage, effectively optimizing the oven's cooking performance and user experience.

[0111] This embodiment also provides a water volume control device for an electric steamer, which is used to implement the above embodiments and preferred embodiments; details already described will not be repeated. As used below, the term "module" can refer to a combination of software and / or hardware that performs a predetermined function. Although the devices described in the following embodiments are preferably implemented in software, hardware implementation, or a combination of software and hardware, is also possible and contemplated.

[0112] This embodiment provides a water volume control device for an electric steamer, such as... Figure 9 As shown, it includes: The determination module 901 is used to obtain the desired water level in the water tank corresponding to the determined target cooking program in response to the determined target cooking program; The control module 902 is used to control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program based on the desired water level, and to determine the water level consumed by the water tank during the operation of the target cooking program. The update module 903 is used to adjust the desired water level of the water tank corresponding to the target cooking program based on the relationship between the consumed water level and the desired water level, so that the electric steamer can control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program in the next cycle based on the updated desired water level.

[0113] In some alternative implementations, the determining module 901 includes: The first acquisition unit is used to acquire the target amount of water required for the target cooking program.

[0114] The calculation unit is used to calculate the desired water level corresponding to the target cooking program based on the target water volume and the bottom area of ​​the water tank.

[0115] In some alternative implementations, the control module 902 includes: The second acquisition unit is used to acquire the initial water level in the water tank.

[0116] The first determining unit is used to control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program when the difference between the determined initial water level and the desired water level is not less than a preset water level threshold.

[0117] The second determining unit is used to add water to the water tank until the water level in the tank reaches the sum of the desired water level and the preset water level threshold when the difference between the initial water level and the desired water level is less than the preset water level threshold, and then control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program.

[0118] The monitoring unit is used to monitor the first water level at the start of the target cooking program and the second water level at the end of the program, based on a continuous level electrode.

[0119] The third determining unit is used to determine the consumed water level based on the difference between the first water level and the second water level.

[0120] In some alternative implementations, the update module 903 includes: The first adjustment unit is used to increase the expected water level to obtain an updated expected water level when the determined water level consumption is greater than the expected water level.

[0121] The second adjustment unit is used to adjust the expected water level corresponding to the target cooking program to obtain the updated expected water level when the water level consumed is determined to be no greater than the expected water level, based on the expected water level and the water level margin corresponding to the expected water level.

[0122] In some alternative implementations, the second adjustment unit includes: The margin coefficient determination sub-unit is used to determine the margin coefficient of the desired water level. The margin coefficient is greater than 0 and less than 1.

[0123] The water level margin determination sub-unit is used to determine the water level margin based on the product of the margin coefficient and the desired water level.

[0124] The first determining sub-unit is used to maintain the desired water level unchanged when the sum of the determined water level consumption and the water level margin is not less than the desired water level.

[0125] The second determining sub-unit is used to obtain an updated expected water level by reducing the expected water level based on the water level surplus when the determined water level and the water level surplus are less than the expected water level.

[0126] In some alternative embodiments, the device further includes: The first program determination module is used to obtain the input cooking time and cooking temperature, and determine the target cooking program based on the cooking time and cooking temperature.

[0127] The second program determination module is used to respond to the user's selection operation in the preset program menu and determine the target cooking program based on the selection operation.

[0128] The electric steam oven water volume control device provided in this embodiment of the invention can execute the electric steam oven water volume control method provided in any embodiment of the invention, and has the corresponding functional modules and beneficial effects for executing the method. Further functional descriptions of the above modules and units are the same as those in the corresponding embodiments described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0129] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of a controller for an electric steamer provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0130] The following is a detailed reference. Figure 10 The diagram illustrates a structural schematic suitable for implementing a controller in an embodiment of the present invention. The controller may include a processor (e.g., a central processing unit, a graphics processing unit, etc.) 1001, which can perform various appropriate actions and processes according to a program stored in read-only memory (ROM) 1002 or a program loaded from memory 1008 into random access memory (RAM) 1003. The RAM 1003 also stores various programs and data required for controller operation. The processor 1001, ROM 1002, and RAM 1003 are interconnected via a bus 1004. An input / output (I / O) interface 1005 is also connected to the bus 1004.

[0131] Typically, the following devices can be connected to the I / O interface 1005: input devices 1006 including, for example, a touchscreen, touchpad, keyboard, mouse, camera, microphone, accelerometer, gyroscope, etc.; output devices 1007 including, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), speaker, vibrator, etc.; memory 1008 including, for example, magnetic tape, hard disk, etc.; and communication devices 1009. Communication device 1009 allows the controller to communicate wirelessly or wiredly with other devices to exchange data. Although Figure 10 A controller with various devices is shown, but it should be understood that it is not required to implement or have all of the devices shown, and may alternatively implement or have more or fewer devices.

[0132] In particular, according to embodiments of the present invention, the processes described above with reference to the flowcharts can be implemented as computer software programs. For example, embodiments of the present invention include a computer program product comprising a computer program carried on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the computer program containing program code for performing the methods shown in the flowcharts. In such embodiments, the computer program can be downloaded and installed from a network via a communication device 1009, or installed from a memory 1008, or installed from a ROM 1002. When the computer program is executed by the processor 1001, it performs the functions defined in the electric steamer water control method of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0133] Figure 10 The controller shown is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting the functionality and scope of use of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0134] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium. The methods described above according to embodiments of the invention can be implemented in hardware or firmware, or implemented as computer code that can be recorded on a storage medium, or implemented as computer code downloaded via a network and originally stored on a remote storage medium or a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and then stored on a local storage medium. Thus, the methods described herein can be processed by software stored on a storage medium using a general-purpose computer, a dedicated processor, or programmable or dedicated hardware. The storage medium can be a magnetic disk, optical disk, read-only memory, random access memory, flash memory, hard disk, or solid-state drive, etc.; further, the storage medium can also include combinations of the above types of memory. It is understood that computers, processors, microprocessor controllers, or programmable hardware include storage components capable of storing or receiving software or computer code. When the software or computer code is accessed and executed by the computer, processor, or hardware, the electric steamer water control method shown in the above embodiments is implemented.

[0135] A portion of this invention can be applied as a computer program product, such as computer program instructions, which, when executed by a computer, can invoke or provide the methods and / or technical solutions according to the invention through the operation of the computer. Those skilled in the art will understand that the forms in which computer program instructions exist in a computer-readable medium include, but are not limited to, source files, executable files, installation package files, etc. Correspondingly, the ways in which computer program instructions are executed by a computer include, but are not limited to: the computer directly executing the instructions, or the computer compiling the instructions and then executing the corresponding compiled program, or the computer reading and executing the instructions, or the computer reading and installing the instructions and then executing the corresponding installed program. Here, the computer-readable medium can be any available computer-readable storage medium or communication medium accessible to a computer.

[0136] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for controlling the water volume of an electric steamer, the electric steamer comprising: Water tank, characterized in that the method includes: In response to a determined target cooking program, the desired water level in the water tank corresponding to the target cooking program is obtained; Based on the desired water level, the electric steamer is controlled to run the target cooking program, and the water level consumed by the water tank during the operation of the target cooking program is determined. Based on the relationship between the consumed water level and the desired water level, the desired water level in the water tank corresponding to the target cooking program is adjusted so that the electric steamer controls the electric steamer to run the target cooking program in the next cycle based on the updated desired water level.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of controlling the electric steamer to run the target cooking program based on the desired water level includes: Obtain the initial water level in the water tank; When it is determined that the difference between the initial water level and the desired water level is not less than a preset water level threshold, the electric steamer is controlled to run the target cooking program. When it is determined that the difference between the initial water level and the desired water level is less than a preset water level threshold, water is added to the water tank until the water level in the water tank reaches the sum of the desired water level and the preset water level threshold, and then the electric steamer is controlled to run the target cooking program.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Adjusting the desired water level for the target cooking program based on the relationship between the consumed water level and the desired water level includes: When it is determined that the consumed water level is greater than the expected water level, the expected water level is increased to obtain an updated expected water level. When it is determined that the water level consumed is not greater than the expected water level, the expected water level corresponding to the target cooking program is adjusted based on the expected water level and the water level margin corresponding to the expected water level to obtain the updated expected water level.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The step of adjusting the desired water level corresponding to the target cooking program based on the desired water level and the corresponding water level margin to obtain the updated desired water level includes: Determine the margin coefficient for the desired water level, wherein the margin coefficient is greater than 0 and less than 1; The water level margin is determined based on the product of the margin coefficient and the desired water level. When it is determined that the sum of the consumed water level and the remaining water level is not less than the desired water level, the desired water level is maintained unchanged; When it is determined that the consumed water level and the water level margin are less than the expected water level, the expected water level is reduced based on the water level margin to obtain an updated expected water level.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Determining the desired water level corresponding to the target cooking procedure includes: Obtain the target amount of water required for the target cooking program; Based on the target water volume and the bottom area of ​​the water tank, the desired water level corresponding to the target cooking program is calculated.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The input cooking time and cooking temperature are obtained, and the target cooking program is determined based on the cooking time and cooking temperature. Alternatively, in response to a user's selection in a preset program menu, the target cooking program is determined based on the selection.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Determining the water level consumed by the water tank during the operation of the target cooking program includes: The target cooking program is monitored using a continuous level electrode meter to detect the first water level at the start of the program and the second water level at the end of the program. The water level consumed is determined based on the difference between the first water level and the second water level.

8. A water volume control device for an electric steamer, the electric steamer comprising: The water tank is characterized in that the device comprises: A determination module is used to obtain the desired water level in the water tank corresponding to the determined target cooking program in response to the determined target cooking program; The control module is used to control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program based on the desired water level, and to determine the water level consumed by the water tank during the operation of the target cooking program; An update module is used to adjust the desired water level in the water tank corresponding to the target cooking program based on the relationship between the consumed water level and the desired water level, so that the electric steamer can control the electric steamer to run the target cooking program in the next operation based on the updated desired water level.

9. An electric steamer, characterized in that, The electric steamer includes a water tank, and further includes a controller, the controller comprising: A memory and a processor, the memory and the processor being communicatively connected to each other, the memory storing computer instructions, the processor executing the computer instructions to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions for causing the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 7.

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