Cold-state sterilizing and descaling method and gas water heater

Abstract

The invention discloses a cold-state sterilization and descaling method and a gas water heater, and relates to the technical field of sterilization and descaling, the gas water heater comprises a heat exchange module, a circulation pipeline connected with the heat exchange module, a water pump arranged on the circulation pipeline and a micro-nano bubble water generating device, and the method comprises the steps that in the state that a combustion module of the gas water heater is not ignited, the micro-nano bubble water generating device is ignited; the water pump is started to drive water in the circulating pipeline and the heat exchange module to circularly flow; the circulating water flow in the circulating pipeline is subjected to sterilization and scale inhibition treatment based on the micro-nano bubble water generating device; wherein the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment comprises sterilization and scale inhibition by utilizing micro-nano bubble water generated by a micro-nano bubble water generating device. According to the invention, non-thermal sterilization and physical scale inhibition are realized by virtue of physical and chemical effects generated during collapse of micro-nano bubbles, heating is not needed in the whole process, and no chemical agent is added, so that the comprehensive technical effects of saving energy, avoiding scald risk and avoiding chemical residues are fundamentally realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of sterilization and descaling technology, and in particular to a cold sterilization and descaling method and a gas water heater. Background Technology

[0002] As a crucial device for supplying hot water to households, the health and safety of the water produced by gas water heaters are increasingly attracting user attention. During daily tap water transportation, secondary contamination can occur due to factors such as aging pipe networks and water tank pollution, leading to bacterial growth. This is especially true when the water heater is set to a low temperature or when the equipment is idle for extended periods, making it prone to biofilm formation or bacterial colony accumulation inside the heater and pipes, posing hygiene and safety risks. Furthermore, hardness ions such as calcium and magnesium, as well as residual chlorine, commonly found in water, can easily deposit and form scale or cause corrosion on the internal pipes and heat exchanger surfaces of the water heater. This not only reduces heat transfer efficiency and increases energy consumption but also shortens the overall lifespan of the equipment.

[0003] To address these issues, the industry currently employs several key technologies. High-temperature sterilization is a common method, achieved by heating hot water to a high temperature and maintaining it for a period of time. However, this method consumes a significant amount of energy for repeated water heating, and there is a risk of scalding if users accidentally use the hot water after the sterilization cycle ends. Furthermore, prolonged high-temperature environments accelerate the aging of seals and plastic components in the water system. Notably, high temperatures also promote the decomposition of calcium bicarbonate in the water, exacerbating scaling on the surface of heat exchangers, creating an inherent contradiction between sterilization and scale inhibition. Ultraviolet (UV) sterilization technology uses ultraviolet light to irradiate flowing water to inactivate microorganisms. However, its sterilization effect is significantly affected by water transparency, and at normal water flow rates, the time the water spends in the irradiated area is short, leading to decreased sterilization efficiency and making it difficult to achieve a stable and thorough sterilization effect.

[0004] Furthermore, regarding scale inhibition, magnetization scale inhibition technology alters the crystallization morphology of scale-forming ions in water using a magnetic field. However, its effectiveness is influenced by various factors such as water quality and flow rate, resulting in unstable performance and ongoing debate regarding its long-term effectiveness. While adding chemical scale inhibitors can suppress scale formation to some extent, it requires regular replenishment, increasing the complexity of use and maintenance. More importantly, it introduces exogenous chemical components, posing potential hygiene and safety risks, especially in scenarios involving domestic hot water supply and potential contact with drinking water. This fails to meet users' high demands for additive-free, healthy water quality. In addition, the aforementioned existing technologies typically require the water heater to be operational, and cannot independently perform effective sterilization and scale inhibition treatment when the equipment is in standby or at low temperatures.

[0005] In summary, existing gas water heater sterilization and scale inhibition technologies generally suffer from problems such as high energy consumption, safety risks, potential introduction of chemical pollution, or unstable technical effects. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention provides a cold sterilization and descaling method and a gas water heater, aiming to solve the technical problem of how to achieve efficient and stable sterilization and scale inhibition of the water circuit system of a gas water heater without relying on heating or introducing chemical substances.

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a cold sterilization and descaling method, comprising: The gas water heater includes a heat exchange module, a circulation pipeline connected to the heat exchange module, a water pump installed on the circulation pipeline, and a micro-nano bubble water generator. The method includes: When the combustion module of the gas water heater is not ignited, the water pump is started to drive the water circulation in the circulation pipeline and the heat exchange module. The micro-nano bubble water generator is used to sterilize and inhibit scale in the circulating water flow in the circulation pipeline. The sterilization and scale inhibition treatment includes sterilization and scale inhibition using micro-nano bubble water generated by the micro-nano bubble water generator.

[0008] Optionally, the gas water heater further includes an ultraviolet sterilization device disposed on the circulation pipeline, and before the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment of the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator, the method further includes: Obtain the water quality detection signal of the water in the circulation pipeline; The water quality parameter values ​​represented by the water quality detection signal are compared with preset thresholds; If the water quality parameter value is greater than the preset threshold, then the step of performing sterilization and scale inhibition treatment on the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator is executed. If the water quality parameter value is less than or equal to the preset threshold, the circulating water in the circulation pipeline is sterilized based on the ultraviolet sterilization device.

[0009] Optionally, the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment of the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator includes: The shut-off valve located at the water inlet of the micro-nano bubble water generator is closed to block the circulation pipeline; The water pump is operated to create a negative pressure in the dissolved gas tank of the micro-nano bubble water generator and draw in gas, wherein the dissolved gas tank is equipped with a gas intake pipe; After a first preset time period, the shut-off valve is opened to allow water to flow into the dissolved air tank to generate micro-nano bubble water. The micro-nano bubble water is pumped to the circulation pipeline and the heat exchange module by the water pump.

[0010] Optionally, the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment of the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator includes: The shut-off valve located at the water inlet of the micro-nano bubble water generator is closed. Start the air pump to fill the dissolved gas tank in the micro-nano bubble water generator with gas until the pressure in the dissolved gas tank reaches the preset pressure value, wherein the air pump is connected to the dissolved gas tank; Turn off the air pump and control the shut-off valve to open; The water pump is operated to inject water into the dissolved air tank to generate micro-nano bubble water, and the micro-nano bubble water is pumped to the circulation pipeline and the heat exchange module through the water pump.

[0011] Optionally, the sterilization treatment of the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the ultraviolet sterilization device includes: The water pump is controlled to drive water circulation at a first flow rate lower than the rated hot water flow rate of the gas water heater; The ultraviolet sterilization device is activated to irradiate the water flowing through the irradiation area of ​​the ultraviolet sterilization device at the first flow rate with ultraviolet light. After the second preset time period or after one complete water circulation cycle, the water pump and the ultraviolet sterilization device are turned off.

[0012] Optionally, the duration of the bactericidal and scale-inhibiting treatment can be determined by: Based on the total water volume of the circulation pipeline and the current operating flow rate of the water pump, the circulation time required for the water in the circulation pipeline to complete one full cycle is calculated, and the circulation time is set as the duration of the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment. or, Based on the user's historical hot water usage records, the water flow rate and time taken from ignition to the water temperature reaching a stable state are determined for the gas water heater. Combined with the current operating flow rate of the water pump, the duration of the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment is calculated.

[0013] Optionally, during normal hot water use by the user, the method further includes: When a water flow signal is detected, the combustion module of the gas water heater is controlled to ignite and heat, and the micro-nano bubble water generator and / or the ultraviolet sterilization device are activated simultaneously. When the water flow signal disappears, the combustion module, the micro-nano bubble water generator, and / or the ultraviolet sterilization device are controlled to stop working.

[0014] In a second aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a gas water heater, comprising: Heat exchange module; A circulation pipeline is connected to the heat exchange module; A water pump is installed on the circulation pipeline; A micro-nano bubble water generator, with its inlet and outlet connected to the circulation pipeline; The controller is electrically connected to the water pump and the micro-nano bubble water generator; The controller is used to perform the method as described in the first aspect.

[0015] Optionally, the gas water heater further includes: A water quality sensor is installed on the circulation pipeline to detect water quality parameters; The controller is electrically connected to the water quality sensor.

[0016] Optionally, the gas water heater further includes an ultraviolet sterilization device, which is installed on the circulation pipeline and electrically connected to the controller.

[0017] This invention provides a cold-state sterilization and descaling method and a gas water heater. The gas water heater includes a heat exchange module, a circulation pipeline connected to the heat exchange module, a water pump installed on the circulation pipeline, and a micro-nano bubble water generator. The method includes: starting the water pump to drive water circulation in the circulation pipeline and the heat exchange module when the combustion module of the gas water heater is not ignited; and performing sterilization and scale inhibition treatment on the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator. The sterilization and scale inhibition treatment includes using micro-nano bubble water generated by the micro-nano bubble water generator for sterilization and scale inhibition. This invention achieves non-thermal sterilization and physical scale inhibition by driving internal water circulation through a water pump and treating the circulating water using a micro-nano bubble water generator when the combustion module is not working. This method relies on the physicochemical effects generated when micro-nano bubbles collapse to achieve non-thermal sterilization and physical scale inhibition, requiring no heating or chemical additives throughout the process, thus fundamentally achieving energy saving, eliminating the risk of scalding, and avoiding chemical residues. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a gas water heater provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of a cold sterilization and descaling method provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a gas water heater provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a gas water heater provided in Embodiment 3 of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a gas water heater provided in Embodiment 4 of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a gas water heater provided in Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

[0020] Figure Labels 1. Shut-off valve; 2. Check valve; 3. Ultraviolet sterilization device; 4. Dissolved gas tank; 5. Water pump; 6. Water outlet; 7. Heat exchange module; 8. Housing; 9. Combustion module; 10. Water quality sensor; 11. Flow sensor; 12. Water inlet; 13. Air pump; 14. Water inlet pipe; 15. Water outlet pipe; 16. Return pipe; 17. Air intake pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0021] 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, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. 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.

[0022] It should be understood that, when used in this specification and the appended claims, the terms "comprising" and "including" indicate the presence of the described features, integrals, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components and / or collections thereof.

[0023] It should also be understood that the terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0024] It should also be further understood that the term "and / or" as used in this specification and the appended claims refers to any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0025] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "if" may be interpreted, depending on the context, as "when," "once," "in response to determination," or "in response to detection." Similarly, the phrase "if determined" or "if [described condition or event] is detected" may be interpreted, depending on the context, as "once determined," "in response to determination," "once [described condition or event] is detected," or "in response to detection of [described condition or event]."

[0026] Example 1 Please see Figure 1 This embodiment provides a gas water heater, including a heat exchange module 7, a circulation pipeline, a water pump 5, a micro-nano bubble water generator, and a controller. The specific structure is described below: The circulation pipeline is connected to the heat exchange module 7. Specifically, the circulation pipeline includes an inlet pipe 14 connected to the inlet end of the heat exchange module 7, an outlet pipe 15 connected to the outlet end of the heat exchange module 7, and a return pipe 16 connecting the inlet pipe 14 and the outlet pipe 15. A controllable valve is installed on the return pipe 16. When the controllable valve is open, water from the outlet pipe 15 can flow back to the inlet pipe 14 through the return pipe 16, realizing water circulation. The inlet pipe 14 is provided with an inlet 12, and the outlet pipe 15 is provided with an outlet 6. A flow sensor 11 is also provided on the circulation pipeline, for example, the flow sensor 11 is installed on the inlet pipe 14.

[0027] The water pump 5 is installed on the circulation pipeline to enable water to circulate within the circulation pipeline.

[0028] The inlet and outlet of the micro-nano bubble water generator are connected to the circulation pipeline to generate micro-nano bubble water.

[0029] The micro / nano bubble water generator includes a dissolved air tank 4, which is equipped with an air intake pipe 17. A one-way valve 2 is installed on the air intake pipe 17, configured to allow gas to flow unidirectionally in the direction of entering the dissolved air tank 4. A shut-off valve 1 is installed at the water inlet of the micro / nano bubble water generator. Specifically, in this embodiment, the dissolved air tank 4 is located on the water outlet pipe 15, and the water pump 5 is located on the water outlet pipe 15, between the dissolved air tank 4 and the water outlet 6.

[0030] The controller is electrically connected to the water pump 5 and the micro-nano bubble water generator; wherein, the controller is used to execute a cold sterilization and descaling method proposed in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0031] Furthermore, the gas water heater also includes a combustion module 9 (burner) that constitutes its basic functions and a housing 8, which will not be described in detail in this invention.

[0032] Furthermore, the gas water heater also includes a water quality sensor 10, which is installed on the circulation pipeline (e.g., the inlet pipe 14) to detect water quality parameters; the controller is electrically connected to the water quality sensor 10. The water quality sensor 10 may specifically be a TDS sensor.

[0033] Furthermore, the gas water heater also includes an ultraviolet sterilization device 3, which is installed on the circulation pipeline and electrically connected to the controller. Specifically, in this embodiment, the ultraviolet sterilization device 3 is installed inside the dissolved gas tank 4.

[0034] Please see Figure 1 This invention provides a cold sterilization and descaling method, which includes the following steps: S1, when the combustion module of the gas water heater is not ignited, the water pump is started to drive the water circulation in the circulation pipeline and the heat exchange module.

[0035] In practice, with the combustion module of the gas water heater not ignited, the water pump is started, and the controllable valve on the return pipe is opened, allowing water to circulate in the circulation pipeline and the heat exchange module. Because this completely avoids the energy consumption required to continuously heat a large volume of water to a high temperature for sterilization, the operating cost of the entire process is significantly reduced. Furthermore, since the water temperature does not rise throughout the treatment process, the risk of scalding due to accidental water discharge by the user during the treatment cycle is completely eliminated, improving passive safety.

[0036] S2, the circulating water in the circulation pipeline is subjected to sterilization and scale inhibition treatment based on the micro-nano bubble water generator; wherein, the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment includes sterilization and scale inhibition using micro-nano bubble water generated by the micro-nano bubble water generator.

[0037] In practice, based on the establishment of a cold water circulation flow, a micro-nano bubble water generator is further introduced to treat the circulating water for sterilization and scale inhibition. The micro-nano bubble technology upon which this treatment relies is a purely physical process. When the water flow rich in micro-nano-scale bubbles generated by the micro-nano bubble water generator flows through the entire water system, these bubbles, during their subsequent collapse phase, experience localized high-temperature and high-pressure effects, generating active substances such as hydroxyl radicals. Utilizing this physicochemical principle, the cellular structure or genetic material of microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses in the water can be effectively destroyed, thus achieving non-thermal physical sterilization. Simultaneously, the micro-jet and interfacial effects generated during the collapse of the micro-nano bubbles can continuously disturb and impact the already formed scale-forming ion crystal nuclei in the water, interfering with their directional and orderly growth into hard scale, promoting the formation of loosely structured, non-adherent crystals, thereby achieving simultaneous physical scale inhibition. This mechanism allows the two objectives of sterilization and scale inhibition to be completed synergistically in a single treatment process, improving treatment efficiency.

[0038] Because the entire sterilization and scale inhibition process relies strictly on the aforementioned physical mechanisms and involves no chemical additives, it fundamentally eliminates the risk of chemical residues that may be introduced by using chemical scale inhibitors. This ensures the purity and safety of the effluent water, meeting the growing health requirements for domestic hot water quality. Furthermore, the entire process is conducted at room temperature or low temperature, preventing any increase in water temperature. This avoids the contradictory phenomenon in traditional high-temperature sterilization methods where exceeding a certain threshold accelerates the decomposition of calcium bicarbonate in the water, thus exacerbating scale formation on the heat exchanger surface. The method of this invention physically isolates the sterilization process from conditions that may promote scale formation at the source, achieving true synergy rather than antagonism.

[0039] Furthermore, before performing sterilization and scale inhibition treatment on the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator, the method further includes: acquiring a water quality detection signal of the water in the circulation pipeline; comparing the water quality parameter value represented by the water quality detection signal with a preset threshold; if the water quality parameter value is greater than the preset threshold, then performing the step of sterilization and scale inhibition treatment on the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator; if the water quality parameter value is less than or equal to the preset threshold, then performing sterilization treatment on the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the ultraviolet sterilization device.

[0040] In practice, an ultraviolet sterilization device is integrated into the circulation pipeline. An intelligent mode selection step is added before performing the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment. The controller first acquires the current circulating water quality detection signal through a water quality sensor (such as a TDS sensor) installed on the circulation pipeline, and compares the specific water quality parameter value (e.g., total dissolved solids content) it represents with a preset threshold stored in the built-in memory. This preset threshold is set based on a large amount of experimental data and is used to distinguish between high and low levels of water pollution and scaling risk.

[0041] The comparison logic is as follows: If the current water quality parameter value is greater than the preset threshold, the water quality is determined to be poor, with a high risk of microorganisms and scale-forming ions. The controller then decides to execute the first sterilization and scale inhibition mode, centered on a micro-nano bubble water generator. Conversely, if the current water quality parameter value is less than or equal to the preset threshold, the water quality is determined to be relatively good, with a lower risk. In this case, to save energy, the controller will decide to execute the second sterilization mode, centered on an ultraviolet sterilization device. This mode selection process is automatic and requires no user intervention. However, the controller can also provide an interface allowing users to manually force the execution of a specific mode or activate both modes simultaneously.

[0042] This embodiment introduces water quality sensing and intelligent judgment logic to achieve automatic optimization of the treatment mode, thereby improving the overall energy efficiency and economic efficiency of the treatment. When the water quality sensor detects signals indicating poor water quality, such as high TDS values, the controller automatically activates the more comprehensive micro-nano bubble water treatment mode, which is more adaptable to complex water qualities, to ensure reliable sterilization and scale inhibition effects even under high pollution risk. When the water quality is good, the controller automatically switches to the relatively lower energy consumption ultraviolet sterilization mode, meeting basic sterilization requirements while minimizing energy consumption and operating costs. This dynamic decision-making mechanism based on objective water quality parameters allows the controller to flexibly allocate treatment resources according to the actual pollution load, avoiding energy waste from operating high-energy-consuming devices under low-risk conditions and preventing the potential inadequacy of single ultraviolet treatment under high-risk conditions.

[0043] Furthermore, the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment of the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator includes: controlling the shut-off valve at the inlet of the micro-nano bubble water generator to close, thereby blocking the circulation pipeline; operating the water pump to create negative pressure in the dissolved air tank of the micro-nano bubble water generator and draw in gas, wherein the dissolved air tank is equipped with a gas intake pipeline; after a first preset time, controlling the shut-off valve to open, allowing water to flow into the dissolved air tank to generate micro-nano bubble water; and pumping the micro-nano bubble water to the circulation pipeline and the heat exchange module via the water pump.

[0044] In practice, once the controller determines to start the micro / nano bubble water generator, it first sends a closing command to the shut-off valve in the pipeline installed at the inlet of the generator. After the shut-off valve closes, the water supply to the micro / nano bubble water generator (whose core is the dissolved air tank) is cut off. Subsequently, the controller maintains continuous operation of the water pump. The pump's suction causes the air intake pipeline connected to the dissolved air tank (usually equipped with a one-way valve to prevent backflow) to begin drawing air from the external environment, creating a negative pressure state inside the dissolved air tank. Gas is drawn in and accumulates inside. This dissolved air process continues for a pre-set initial time to ensure sufficient gas is drawn in. When the initial time is reached, the controller sends a command to reopen the shut-off valve. At this time, the water in the circulation pipeline, driven by the pump, is rapidly injected at high speed into the interior of the dissolved air tank from the pressurized inlet. When water flows into the dissolved air tank filled with gas, the gas is cut, sheared, and highly dispersed in the water due to the drastic changes in pressure and flow pattern, thereby generating high-concentration micro-nano bubble water. The generated bubble water is then pumped out from the outlet of the dissolved air tank and continuously pumped into the entire circulation pipeline and heat exchange module for subsequent sterilization and scale inhibition.

[0045] This embodiment provides a specific technical method for efficiently generating micro / nano bubble water using the principle of negative pressure aeration. By first closing the shut-off valve and using a water pump to create a negative pressure environment, the automatic aeration and storage of gas into the dissolved gas tank can be achieved with low energy consumption. No additional active gas supply equipment (such as an air pump) is required at this stage, simplifying the initial operation of the controller and saving corresponding energy. After the negative pressure is established, the valve is suddenly opened to allow high-speed water flow. Utilizing the kinetic energy of the water flow and the pressure difference in the gas chamber inside the tank, the gas is effectively broken into micro / nano-sized bubbles and dissolved in the water. This method produces bubble water with high concentration and small bubble size, which is beneficial for better bactericidal and scale-inhibiting physicochemical effects in subsequent circulation treatment. The entire process has a clear logic, simple and reliable control, and provides a feasible implementation scheme for the stable and efficient preparation of micro / nano bubble water in water heaters.

[0046] Furthermore, the method for determining the duration of the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment includes: calculating the circulation time required for the water in the circulation pipeline to complete one complete cycle based on the total water volume of the circulation pipeline and the current operating flow rate of the water pump, and setting the circulation time as the duration of the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment. In practice, the controller pre-stores the total water volume data of the circulation pipeline (including the internal channels of the heat exchange module, connecting pipes, etc.). When cold circulation is started, the controller reads the current actual operating flow rate of the water pump. Then, according to the formula: Circulation time = Total water volume / Current operating flow rate, it calculates the theoretical time required to completely replace all the water in the entire circulation pipeline, i.e., to complete one full cycle. The controller then sets this calculated circulation time as the duration of this cold sterilization and descaling operation.

[0047] Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the water flow rate and time taken from ignition to the water temperature reaching a stable state are determined based on the user's historical hot water usage records, and the duration of the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment is calculated in combination with the current operating flow rate of the water pump.

[0048] In practice, the controller records and analyzes the user's historical hot water usage records, especially the water flow rate (average flow rate) and the time taken (i.e., historical time) from the start of combustion module ignition to the point where the outlet water temperature stabilizes at the set value during multiple uses. During cold circulation, the controller obtains the current operating flow rate of the water pump and calculates it using the formula: Circulation Time = (Water Flow Rate / Circulation Time) The calculation is performed using the formula "historical time / current running flow", and the result is used as the duration of this cold state processing.

[0049] This embodiment ensures the effectiveness and consistency of cold-state sterilization and descaling by providing an intelligent method for determining the cycle duration. Whether based on calculations of the pipe's physical volume or estimations based on the user's actual hot water usage habits, the core objective is to ensure that within the set treatment cycle, sufficient treatment medium (such as micro-nano bubble water or water fully irradiated by ultraviolet light) can effectively cover and act on every part of the entire water heater's water circuit controller, avoiding any treatment dead zones. Both methods avoid the problems of over-treatment (wasting energy) or under-treatment (poor results) that may occur with fixed treatment times, achieving an optimized balance between effectiveness and efficiency in the entire cold-state treatment process, thus improving the method's intelligence and reliability.

[0050] Furthermore, the step of sterilizing the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the ultraviolet sterilization device includes: controlling the water pump to drive water circulation at a first flow rate lower than the rated hot water flow rate of the gas water heater; activating the ultraviolet sterilization device to irradiate the water flowing through the irradiation area of ​​the ultraviolet sterilization device at the first flow rate with ultraviolet light; and turning off the water pump and the ultraviolet sterilization device after a second preset time or after completing one full water circulation.

[0051] In practice, when the control unit decides to activate the ultraviolet sterilization mode, it first adjusts the water pump's operating status, reducing its drive power or speed to a lower level. This stabilizes the water flow in the circulation pipeline at a first flow rate lower than the rated hot water flow rate of the gas water heater. The rated hot water flow rate is, for example, 8-10 liters per minute for normal showering, while the first flow rate is, for example, 1-2 liters per minute. After establishing the low-flow circulation, the controller immediately activates the ultraviolet sterilization device, illuminating its internal ultraviolet lamps to emit ultraviolet light of a specific wavelength. The circulating water flows slowly through the specially designed irradiation chamber inside the ultraviolet sterilization device at this first flow rate, ensuring that the water is fully exposed to the effective irradiation area of ​​the ultraviolet light. Due to the significantly reduced flow rate, the time a unit volume of water is exposed to ultraviolet radiation is greatly extended, typically several times that of normal water flow. This process continues until a preset second processing time is reached, or until the water in the entire circulation pipeline has completed a full cycle, determined by flow rate and time calculations. Upon reaching either condition, the controller shuts off the ultraviolet sterilization device and the water pump, ending the mode operation.

[0052] This embodiment effectively solves the technical defects of traditional flowing ultraviolet sterilization methods, such as insufficient irradiation time and incomplete sterilization during normal high-flow water use in water heaters, by implementing low-flow-rate circulation combined with ultraviolet irradiation. By actively reducing the circulation flow rate to a lower initial flow rate, the controller extends the time window for water flow through the ultraviolet irradiation area. According to the principles of fluid mechanics, with a constant pipe cross-sectional area, flow velocity is inversely proportional to flow time; reducing the flow velocity directly increases the irradiation time proportionally. This allows ultraviolet photons to have more energy and time to destroy the DNA / RNA structure of bacteria and viruses in the flowing water, thereby achieving a more efficient inactivation effect and ensuring a reliable sterilization rate even under conditions of average water transparency. This method significantly improves sterilization efficiency by optimizing hydraulic conditions without changing the power of the ultraviolet device, while the overall energy consumption remains far lower than that of high-temperature heating sterilization modes.

[0053] Furthermore, during normal hot water use by the user, the method further includes: when a water flow signal is detected, controlling the combustion module of the gas water heater to ignite and heat, and simultaneously starting the micro-nano bubble water generator and / or the ultraviolet sterilization device; when the water flow signal disappears, controlling the combustion module and the micro-nano bubble water generator and / or the ultraviolet sterilization device to stop working.

[0054] In practice, when a user turns on the hot water tap, the flow sensor at the gas water heater's inlet or circulation pipe detects a continuous water flow signal and transmits this signal to the controller. Upon receiving this signal, the controller immediately executes two parallel instructions: the first instruction controls the gas water heater's combustion module to ignite and start heating the water flowing through the heat exchange module to meet the user's hot water needs; the second instruction, based on the controller's current mode settings, real-time water quality assessment, or user instructions, activates the micro-nano bubble water generator and / or ultraviolet sterilization device. Thus, while the user is using water normally, the water flowing through the water heater is not only continuously heated but also simultaneously undergoing physical sterilization and scale inhibition treatment. When the user turns off the hot water tap, the water flow signal disappears, and after confirmation, the controller controls the combustion module to stop working (fire off), and simultaneously shuts down the operating micro-nano bubble water generator and / or ultraviolet sterilization device.

[0055] Furthermore, the step of simultaneously activating the micro-nano bubble water generator and / or the ultraviolet sterilization device is performed based on a user's manual input command, which is used to specify the activation of the micro-nano bubble water generator and / or the ultraviolet sterilization device.

[0056] In practice, in addition to supporting automatic mode, the controller also provides a user interface (such as buttons on the unit, remote control, or mobile app). Users can manually input specific commands through this interface during normal water use. For example, users can select options such as "Activate micro-nano bubble purification only" (corresponding to activating the micro-nano bubble water generator), "Activate ultraviolet sterilization only" (corresponding to activating the ultraviolet sterilization device), or "Activate dual purification" (corresponding to activating both the micro-nano bubble water generator and the ultraviolet sterilization device simultaneously). When the controller receives such explicit manual input commands during water use, it will activate the corresponding devices according to the user's input.

[0057] This invention proposes a cold-state sterilization and descaling method. The gas water heater includes a heat exchange module, a circulation pipeline connected to the heat exchange module, a water pump installed on the circulation pipeline, and a micro-nano bubble water generator. The method includes: starting the water pump when the combustion module of the gas water heater is not ignited, driving the water circulation in the circulation pipeline and the heat exchange module; and performing sterilization and scale inhibition treatment on the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator. The sterilization and scale inhibition treatment includes using micro-nano bubble water generated by the micro-nano bubble water generator for sterilization and scale inhibition. This invention achieves non-thermal sterilization and physical scale inhibition by driving internal water circulation through a water pump and treating the circulating water using the micro-nano bubble water generator when the combustion module is not operating. This method relies on the physicochemical effects generated when micro-nano bubbles collapse to achieve non-thermal sterilization and physical scale inhibition, requiring no heating or chemical additives throughout the process, thus fundamentally achieving energy saving, eliminating the risk of scalding, and avoiding chemical residues.

[0058] Example 2 See Figure 3 The difference between Example 2 and Example 1 includes: the method of generating micro-nano bubble water was adjusted. Specifically, based on the configuration of Example 1, Example 2 adds an independent air pump 13 to the air intake pipe 17 and changes the control logic.

[0059] Specifically, the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment of the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator includes: controlling the shut-off valve located at the water inlet of the micro-nano bubble water generator to close; starting the air pump to fill the dissolved air tank in the micro-nano bubble water generator with gas until the pressure in the dissolved air tank reaches a preset pressure value, wherein the air pump is connected to the dissolved air tank; turning off the air pump and controlling the shut-off valve to open; running the water pump to inject water into the dissolved air tank to generate micro-nano bubble water, and pumping the micro-nano bubble water to the circulation pipeline and the heat exchange module through the water pump.

[0060] In practice, once the controller determines to activate the micro / nano bubble water generator, it first closes the shut-off valve at its inlet to isolate the pipeline. Next, the controller starts a dedicated air pump (e.g., a miniature air compressor) connected to the dissolved air tank. The air pump actively pressurizes the sealed dissolved air tank, gradually increasing the pressure inside. The controller continuously monitors the pressure inside the dissolved air tank (via a pressure sensor). When the pressure reaches a preset threshold (i.e., the preset pressure value), it determines that inflation is complete and immediately stops the air pump. After the air pump shuts off, the controller immediately issues a command to open the previously closed shut-off valve. At the moment the valve opens, because the pressure inside the dissolved air tank is much higher than the water pressure in the external circulation pipeline, the high-pressure gas tends to expand outwards. At this time, the controller operates the water pump to inject water from the circulation pipeline into the dissolved air tank. The water enters the high-pressure gas chamber environment, violently mixing and shearing with the expanding gas, thus efficiently generating micro / nano bubble water. The generated bubble water is then pumped to the entire circulation controller for further processing.

[0061] This embodiment discloses an alternative technology for preparing micro / nano bubble water through active pressurization and aeration, providing a more controllable method for generating micro / nano bubbles using airflow and water flow parameters. By actively pressurizing the gas to a preset value using an air pump, the amount of gas involved in bubble generation and the initial pressure can be precisely controlled. This allows for more proactive intervention and optimization of the concentration and size distribution of the final generated micro / nano bubbles, potentially improving the stability and consistency of the treatment effect. Compared to negative pressure aeration, the active aeration method reduces the dependence on the pump's ability to create negative pressure, exhibiting stronger adaptability under different water system back pressures.

[0062] Example 3 See Figure 4 The difference between Example 3 and Example 1 is that Example 3 demonstrates the flexibility of the installation location of the ultraviolet sterilization device 3. While including all the functional components of Example 1, Example 3 specifically shows that the ultraviolet sterilization device 3 can be installed independently in the water inlet pipe 14 (or the ultraviolet sterilization device can be installed in the water outlet pipe 15), rather than necessarily being integrated with the dissolved air tank.

[0063] Example 4 See Figure 5 The difference between Example 4 and Example 1 is that Example 4 simplifies the automatic judgment function. Example 4 removes the water quality sensor 10 included in Example 1. Accordingly, its control logic no longer automatically selects the working mode based on water quality parameters, but instead requires the user to manually select to activate the "micro-nano bubble water sterilization and scale inhibition mode", "ultraviolet sterilization mode", or a combination of both. This difference provides a more cost-effective and user-interactive simplified control solution.

[0064] Example 5 See Figure 6 The difference between Example 5 and Example 1 is that Example 5 constitutes the minimum core implementation scheme of the system. Example 5 removes the ultraviolet sterilization device 3 and the water quality sensor 10 from Example 1. This scheme can only perform a single, cold-state sterilization and scale inhibition function based on micro-nano bubble water. This difference defines the minimum hardware set required to achieve the most basic function of this invention.

[0065] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts that are not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0066] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Since these modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims and their equivalents, this invention also intends to include these modifications and variations.

[0067] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can easily conceive of various equivalent modifications or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention, and these modifications or substitutions 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 cold-state sterilization and descaling method, characterized in that, The gas water heater includes a heat exchange module, a circulation pipeline connected to the heat exchange module, a water pump installed on the circulation pipeline, and a micro-nano bubble water generator. The method includes: When the combustion module of the gas water heater is not ignited, the water pump is started to drive the water circulation in the circulation pipeline and the heat exchange module. The micro-nano bubble water generator is used to sterilize and inhibit scale in the circulating water flow in the circulation pipeline. The sterilization and scale inhibition treatment includes sterilization and scale inhibition using micro-nano bubble water generated by the micro-nano bubble water generator.

2. The cold sterilization and descaling method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gas water heater further includes an ultraviolet sterilization device installed on the circulation pipeline. Before the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment of the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator, the method further includes: Obtain the water quality detection signal of the water in the circulation pipeline; The water quality parameter values ​​represented by the water quality detection signal are compared with preset thresholds; If the water quality parameter value is greater than the preset threshold, then the step of performing sterilization and scale inhibition treatment on the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator is executed. If the water quality parameter value is less than or equal to the preset threshold, the circulating water in the circulation pipeline is sterilized based on the ultraviolet sterilization device.

3. The cold sterilization and descaling method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process of sterilizing and inhibiting scale in the circulating water flow within the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator includes: The shut-off valve located at the water inlet of the micro-nano bubble water generator is closed to block the circulation pipeline; The water pump is operated to create a negative pressure in the dissolved gas tank of the micro-nano bubble water generator and draw in gas, wherein the dissolved gas tank is equipped with a gas intake pipe; After a first preset time period, the shut-off valve is opened to allow water to flow into the dissolved air tank to generate micro-nano bubble water. The micro-nano bubble water is pumped to the circulation pipeline and the heat exchange module by the water pump.

4. The cold sterilization and descaling method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process of sterilizing and inhibiting scale in the circulating water flow within the circulation pipeline based on the micro-nano bubble water generator includes: The shut-off valve located at the water inlet of the micro-nano bubble water generator is closed. Start the air pump to fill the dissolved gas tank in the micro-nano bubble water generator with gas until the pressure in the dissolved gas tank reaches the preset pressure value, wherein the air pump is connected to the dissolved gas tank; Turn off the air pump and control the shut-off valve to open; The water pump is operated to inject water into the dissolved air tank to generate micro-nano bubble water, and the micro-nano bubble water is pumped to the circulation pipeline and the heat exchange module through the water pump.

5. The cold sterilization and descaling method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sterilization treatment of the circulating water in the circulation pipeline based on the ultraviolet sterilization device includes: The water pump is controlled to drive water circulation at a first flow rate lower than the rated hot water flow rate of the gas water heater; The ultraviolet sterilization device is activated to irradiate the water flowing through the irradiation area of ​​the ultraviolet sterilization device at the first flow rate with ultraviolet light. After the second preset time period or after one complete water circulation cycle, the water pump and the ultraviolet sterilization device are turned off.

6. The cold sterilization and descaling method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The duration of the bactericidal and scale-inhibiting treatment is determined by the following methods: Based on the total water volume of the circulation pipeline and the current operating flow rate of the water pump, the circulation time required for the water in the circulation pipeline to complete one full cycle is calculated, and the circulation time is set as the duration of the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment. or, Based on the user's historical hot water usage records, the water flow rate and time taken from ignition to the water temperature reaching a stable state are determined for the gas water heater. Combined with the current operating flow rate of the water pump, the duration of the sterilization and scale inhibition treatment is calculated.

7. The cold sterilization and descaling method according to claim 2, characterized in that, During normal hot water use by the user, the method also includes: When a water flow signal is detected, the combustion module of the gas water heater is controlled to ignite and heat, and the micro-nano bubble water generator and / or the ultraviolet sterilization device are activated simultaneously. When the water flow signal disappears, the combustion module, the micro-nano bubble water generator, and / or the ultraviolet sterilization device are controlled to stop working.

8. A gas water heater, characterized in that, include: Heat exchange module; A circulation pipeline is connected to the heat exchange module; A water pump is installed on the circulation pipeline; A micro-nano bubble water generator, with its inlet and outlet connected to the circulation pipeline; The controller is electrically connected to the water pump and the micro-nano bubble water generator; The controller is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-7.

9. The gas water heater according to claim 8, characterized in that, Also includes: A water quality sensor is installed on the circulation pipeline to detect water quality parameters; The controller is electrically connected to the water quality sensor.

10. The gas water heater according to claim 9, characterized in that, It also includes an ultraviolet sterilization device, which is installed on the circulation pipeline and electrically connected to the controller.

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