Control method for water treatment device, water treatment device, and medium

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of water treatment devices, and discloses a control method of a water treatment device, the water treatment device and a medium. The method comprises the steps that a controller detects the temperature of a heat exchanger through a first temperature sensor, and when the temperature is lower than a heat preservation threshold value, a driving pump and a heating device are started; hot water flows in the heat preservation circulation loop until the heat exchanger reaches the set temperature. Through double-pump division of labor, a heat preservation circulation task is undertaken by the driving pump, the running time of the circulating pump is greatly shortened, the service life of the circulating pump is remarkably prolonged, meanwhile, the instant heating effect is guaranteed, and the system reliability is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water treatment equipment technology, and in particular to a control method for a water treatment device, a water treatment device, and a medium. Background Technology

[0002] Instantaneous hot water dispensers and hot water supply devices are widely used in daily life. Users expect to quickly obtain hot water at a suitable temperature without having to wait for a long time.

[0003] In existing technologies, a common instant hot water supply system employs a single-circulation pump coupled with a heat exchanger. In this design, the circulation pump performs a dual function. Firstly, to ensure instant hot water for users, the pump drives hot water to circulate within the system during non-water-drawing periods, maintaining the heat exchanger within a specific temperature range. This process often requires the circulation pump to operate continuously for extended periods or to frequently start and stop. Secondly, when users draw water, the circulation pump drives cold water through the heat exchanger for preheating and then delivers the preheated water to the outlet.

[0004] This single-pump-multiple-task design has revealed significant shortcomings in practical use. Because the insulation circulation is a long-term, continuous operation, the circulation pump needs to be frequently started or run for extended periods during equipment standby, causing continuous wear on internal mechanical components such as bearings, impellers, and seals. Prolonged operation also raises the temperature of the motor windings, accelerating the aging of the insulation materials. With accumulated usage time, the failure rate of the circulation pump increases significantly, and its service life is far shorter than other components in the equipment, becoming a bottleneck restricting the overall reliability of the system. Once the circulation pump fails, the entire water supply function of the equipment will be completely lost, requiring users to bear high maintenance and replacement costs, while also facing the inconvenience of equipment downtime. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Based on this, it is necessary to address the technical challenges of extending the service life of the circulating pump and improving the overall reliability and durability of the equipment while ensuring the instant heating effect. This presents a control method, water treatment device, and medium for a water treatment device.

[0006] In a first aspect, a control method for a water treatment device is provided, the water treatment device comprising: a thermal storage container, a heating device, a drive pump, a circulation pump, a heat exchanger, and a controller; The first outlet of the heat storage container is connected to the inlet of the drive pump, the outlet of the drive pump is connected to the first inlet of the heating device, the first outlet of the heating device is connected to the first inlet of the heat exchanger, and the first outlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of the heat storage container. The inlet of the circulating pump is connected to the water supply pipe and the second outlet of the heat storage container, respectively, and the outlet of the circulating pump is connected to the first inlet of the heat exchanger. The second inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the cold water pipe, the second outlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the second inlet of the heating device, and the second outlet of the heating device is connected to the outlet pipe. The controller is electrically connected to the drive pump, the circulation pump, and the heating device, respectively. The method includes the following steps: The current temperature of the heat exchanger is measured by the first temperature sensor. If the current temperature is lower than the preset insulation temperature threshold, the drive pump and the heating device are started so that the water in the heat storage container is heated by the heating device, enters the heat exchanger from the first inlet for heat exchange, and then flows back to the heat storage container from the first outlet.

[0007] In a second aspect, a water treatment apparatus is provided, the water treatment apparatus being configured to implement the steps of the control method of the water treatment apparatus according to any one of the first aspects.

[0008] Thirdly, a water treatment apparatus is provided, the water treatment apparatus comprising: a thermal storage container, a heating device, a drive pump, a circulation pump, a heat exchanger, and a controller, the controller being used to control the operation of the heating device, the drive pump, and the circulation pump, the controller comprising: a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, the processor executing the computer program to implement the steps of the control method of the water treatment apparatus as described in the first aspect.

[0009] Fourthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, the computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the control method of the water treatment apparatus according to any one of the first aspects.

[0010] Beneficial effects: In existing single-pump designs, the circulating pump must simultaneously handle both insulation circulation and water intake / supply. Insulation circulation involves long-term continuous operation or frequent start-stop cycles, leading to continuous wear and tear on the pump's mechanical components. This solution adds a drive pump, completely delegating the insulation circulation task to it. The circulating pump only operates briefly when the user needs to draw water. This division of labor significantly reduces the circulating pump's operating time and start-stop frequency, slowing down mechanical wear and motor aging, and substantially extending the circulating pump's lifespan. This effectively solves the problem of the circulating pump being a bottleneck in equipment reliability in existing technologies.

[0011] Extended lifespan of the circulating pump means a correspondingly longer replacement cycle for core equipment components, significantly reducing the probability of equipment downtime due to pump failure. Simultaneously, the drive pump is specifically designed for insulation circulation, allowing for targeted selection and parameter optimization based on the characteristics of this operating condition, further enhancing the stability and efficiency of the insulation circulation. The dual-pump backup design ensures that even if one pump malfunctions, the system can still maintain basic functionality, enhancing overall reliability.

[0012] The insulation circulation loop, driven by the drive pump, and the water intake loop, driven by the circulation pump, are independent yet coupled via a heat exchanger. The controller can start and stop the two pumps separately according to different needs. During the insulation phase, only the drive pump operates, while the circulation pump remains stopped, avoiding unnecessary energy consumption. During the water intake phase, only the circulation pump operates, while the drive pump remains stopped, similarly reducing ineffective operation. This decoupled control makes energy utilization more precise and efficient.

[0013] The drive pump circulates hot water during the insulation phase, keeping the heat exchanger consistently near the preset insulation temperature threshold. When a user draws water, the cold water is preheated as it passes through the heat exchanger, achieving instant hot water. Because the insulation heat is stored in the heat exchanger, warm water can be obtained without starting the heating device, reducing the frequency of heating device activation and lowering the overall system energy consumption to some extent. Attached Figure Description

[0014] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0015] in: Figure 1a This is a schematic diagram of the water circuit structure of a water treatment device in one embodiment; Figure 1b This is a schematic diagram of another water circuit structure of the water treatment device in one embodiment; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another water circuit structure of the water treatment device in one embodiment; Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a water treatment device in one embodiment; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the water replenishment process in one embodiment; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the adjustment process of the circulating pump in one embodiment; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the secondary heating process in one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0016] 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.

[0017] For the water treatment device drainage control method provided in this embodiment of the invention, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figure 1a , Figure 1b and Figure 2 The water treatment device includes: a thermal storage container 5, a heating device 4, a drive pump 1, a circulation pump 2, a heat exchanger 4, a controller, and a booster pump (not shown in the figure).

[0018] The connection relationships of the various components in the water treatment device include: the first outlet of the heat storage container 5 is connected to the inlet of the drive pump 1; the outlet of the drive pump 1 is connected to the first inlet 1A of the heating device 4; the first outlet 1B of the heating device 4 is connected to the first inlet 1C of the heat exchanger 3; the first outlet 1D of the heat exchanger 4 is connected to the inlet of the heat storage container 5; the inlet of the circulation pump 2 is connected to the water supply pipe and the second outlet of the heat storage container 5 respectively; the outlet of the circulation pump 2 is connected to the first inlet 1C of the heat exchanger 3; the second inlet 2C of the heat exchanger 3 is connected to the cold water pipe; the second outlet 2D of the heat exchanger 3 is connected to the second inlet 2A of the heating device 4; the second outlet 2B of the heating device 4 is connected to the outlet pipe; and the controller is electrically connected to the drive pump 1, the circulation pump 2, and the heating device 4 respectively.

[0019] Specifically, the thermal storage container 5 adopts an insulated water tank structure, with its inner liner made of stainless steel and an outer layer of polyurethane insulation. The thermal storage container 5 has a water inlet at the top, a first water outlet at the bottom, and a second water outlet in the upper middle part of the side wall. A liquid level sensor is installed inside the thermal storage container 5, which is used to detect the water level in the container in real time and transmit the water level signal to the controller.

[0020] The drive pump 1 is a centrifugal water pump. Its inlet is connected to the first outlet of the thermal storage container 5 through a pipeline, and its outlet is connected to the first inlet 1A of the heating device 4 through a pipeline. The start, stop and speed of the drive pump 1 are controlled by a controller, which is used to drive the water in the thermal storage container 5 to flow in the main circulation loop.

[0021] The circulating pump 2 is also a centrifugal water pump. Its inlet is connected to the water supply pipeline and the second outlet of the heat storage container 5 via a three-way fitting. Its outlet is connected to the first inlet 1C of the heat exchanger 3 via a pipeline. The start-up, shutdown, and speed of the circulating pump 2 are controlled by a controller to drive external cold water or water from the heat storage container 5 into the heat exchanger 3.

[0022] The booster pump can be a centrifugal water pump. The booster pump is installed in the water supply pipe and is used to drive the water in the water supply pipe into the heat storage container 5.

[0023] Heating device 4 employs a thick-film heating element and has two independent heating channels internally. The first heating channel has an inlet 1A and an outlet 1B, and is used to heat the water in the main circulation loop. The second heating channel has an inlet 2A and an outlet 2B, and is used to reheat the water flowing out of heat exchanger 3. The heating power of heating device 4 is controlled by a controller, which can activate either channel individually or both channels simultaneously as needed.

[0024] Heat exchanger 3 adopts a plate heat exchanger structure, with two sets of isolated but heat-exchangeable flow channels inside. The inlet of the first flow channel is the first inlet 1C, and the outlet is the first outlet 1D. This flow channel is connected to the main circulation loop. The inlet of the second flow channel is the second inlet 2C, and the outlet is the second outlet 2D. This flow channel is connected to the cold water pipeline and the hot water outlet pipeline. A first temperature sensor is installed on the body of heat exchanger 3 to detect the current temperature of heat exchanger 3 and transmit the temperature signal to the controller. A second temperature sensor is installed at the second outlet 2D of heat exchanger 3 to detect the temperature of the water flowing out of heat exchanger 3 and transmit the temperature signal to the controller.

[0025] The controller employs a microcontroller unit, which internally stores control programs and various preset parameters, including insulation temperature threshold, water replenishment level threshold, dry-burn protection water level threshold, and expected lifespan. The controller receives signals from various sensors, processes them, and then sends control commands to drive pump 1, circulation pump 2, and heating device 4.

[0026] Further, see Figure 2 , Figure 2This is another structural schematic diagram of a water treatment device provided in an embodiment of this application. The water treatment device includes: a thermal storage container 5, a heating device 4, a drive pump 1, a circulation pump 2, a heat exchanger 4, a heat exchange inlet valve 6, a one-inlet-four-outlet valve 7, a water supply valve 8, a flow meter 9, a circulation valve 10, a first temperature sensor 11, a drain valve 12, a third temperature sensor 13, a first valve group 14, a second valve group 15 (zero-pressure valve), a fourth temperature sensor 16, a second temperature sensor 17, a pressure boosting valve 18, a third valve group 19, a fifth temperature sensor 20, a reflux valve 21, a fourth valve group 22, a fifth valve group 23, and a sixth valve group 24. The thermal storage container 5 is equipped with a liquid level sensor 51, an air inlet valve 52, and an air outlet valve 53.

[0027] The connection relationships of the above components include: The inlet of heat exchanger inlet valve 6 is connected to the pure water pipe, the outlet of heat exchanger inlet valve 6 is connected to the inlet of the one-in-four-outlet valve 7, the first outlet of the one-in-four-outlet valve 7 is connected to the inlet of the makeup water valve 8, the second outlet of the one-in-four-outlet valve 7 is connected to the inlet of the flow meter 9, the third outlet of the one-in-four-outlet valve 7 is connected to the inlet of the third valve group 19, and the fourth outlet of the one-in-four-outlet valve 7 is connected to the direct drinking water pipe. The outlet of makeup water valve 8 is connected to the inlet of circulating pump 2, and the outlet of circulating pump 2 is connected to the first inlet of heat exchanger 3; the inlet of circulating pump 2 is connected to the second outlet of heat storage container 5 (heat tank) through circulating valve 10. The inlet of drive pump 1 is connected to the first outlet of heat storage container 5, the outlet of drive pump 1 is connected to the first inlet of heating device 4 (thick film), and the first outlet of heating device 4 is connected to the first inlet of heat exchanger 3. The outlet of flow meter 9 is connected to the second inlet of heat exchanger 3. The second outlet of heat exchanger 3 is connected to the inlet of third valve group 19. The outlet of third valve group 19 is connected to the second inlet of heating device 4. The inlet of drain valve 12 is connected to the first outlet of heat exchanger 3. The outlet of drain valve 12 is connected to the return pipe through return valve 21 and fifth valve group 23. The second outlet of heating device 4 is connected to the inlet of booster valve 18. The outlet of booster valve 18 is connected to the inlet of sixth valve group 24 through first valve group 14 and second valve group 15. The inlet of sixth valve group 24 is connected to the raw water pipe. The outlet of sixth valve group 24 is connected to the domestic water pipe. The outlet of booster valve 18 is connected to the hot water pipe. The outlet of booster valve 18 is connected to the direct drinking water pipe through fourth valve group 22.

[0028] The first temperature sensor 11 is installed in the pipe where the first outlet of the heat exchanger 11 is located; the second temperature sensor 17 is installed in the pipe where the second outlet of the heating device 4 is located; the third temperature sensor 13 is installed in the pipe where the outlet of the drive pump 1 is located; the fourth temperature sensor 16 is installed in the pipe where the inlet of the sixth valve group 24 is located; and the fifth temperature sensor 20 is installed in the pipe where the inlet of the third valve group 19 is located.

[0029] Specifically, the heat exchange inlet valve 6 adopts an electromagnetic shut-off valve structure, with its valve body made of brass and equipped with internal rubber seals. The valve's inlet is directly connected to the pure water pipe, and its outlet is connected to the inlet of the one-in-four-out valve 7. The heat exchange inlet valve 6 opens when energized and closes when de-energized, controlling the flow of pure water into the water treatment device. When the water treatment device is in standby mode or when pure water is not needed, the valve remains closed to prevent accidental inflow of pure water.

[0030] The water replenishment valve 8 adopts a solenoid valve structure. Its inlet is connected to the first outlet of the one-in-four-out valve 7, and its outlet is connected to the inlet of the circulating pump 2. The water replenishment valve 8 is used to control the supply of pure water to the circulating pump 2. It is opened when the water treatment device needs to replenish water, so that pure water can enter the circulating pump 2.

[0031] The circulation valve 10 adopts a solenoid valve structure. Its inlet is connected to the second outlet of the heat storage container 5, and its outlet is connected to the inlet of the circulation pump 2. The circulation valve 10 is used to control whether the hot water in the heat storage container 5 enters the circulation pump 2. It is opened when the water treatment device needs to use the hot water in the container for circulation.

[0032] The drain valve 12 adopts a solenoid valve structure. Its inlet is connected to the first outlet of the heat exchanger 3, and its outlet is connected to the return pipe through the return valve 21. The drain valve 12 is used to open when the water treatment device needs to discharge the water stored inside the heat exchanger 3, so as to discharge the water to the return pipe.

[0033] The reflux valve 21 adopts a solenoid valve structure. Its inlet is connected to the outlet of the drain valve 12, and its outlet is connected to the reflux pipe. The reflux valve 21 is used to control the opening and closing of the reflux pipeline and is opened when the water treatment device needs to return water to the heat storage container 5.

[0034] The booster valve 18 employs a booster pump structure. Its inlet is connected to the second outlet of the heating device 4, and its outlet is connected to the hot water pipe, the inlet of the first valve group 14, and the inlet of the fourth valve group 22, respectively. The booster valve 18 is used to pressurize the hot water flowing out of the heating device 4, ensuring that the hot water can be delivered to each outlet terminal with sufficient pressure. The valve contains a motor-driven impeller, which can adjust the boosting intensity as needed.

[0035] The one-in-four-out valve 7 adopts a rotary distribution valve structure, consisting of one inlet and four outlets. The inlet of this valve is connected to the outlet of the heat exchange inlet valve 6, the first outlet is connected to the inlet of the makeup water valve 8, the second outlet is connected to the inlet of the flow meter 9, the third outlet is connected to the inlet of the third valve group 19, and the fourth outlet is connected to the direct drinking water pipe. The one-in-four-out valve 7 has a rotatable valve core inside. The controller drives the valve core to rotate via a drive motor, selectively distributing the pure water from the inlet to any one of the four outlets, thus achieving the one-in-four-out distribution function.

[0036] Valve groups 14, 15, 19, 22, 23, and 24 are all straight-through solenoid valves, each consisting of an inlet and an outlet. Each valve group contains a movable valve core, which is electromagnetically driven to control the opening and closing of the valves.

[0037] The inlet of the first valve group 14 is connected to the outlet of the booster valve 18, and the outlet is connected to the inlet of the second valve group 15. The first valve group 14 is used to control whether the pressurized hot water flows to the second valve group 15.

[0038] The second valve group 15 is a zero-pressure valve. Its inlet is connected to the outlet of the first valve group 14, and its outlet is connected to the inlet of the sixth valve group 24. The second valve group 15 is equipped with a pressure balancing structure. When the outlet is closed, the valve body can maintain a zero-pressure state to prevent water hammer from impacting other components.

[0039] The inlet of the third valve group 19 is connected to the third outlet of the one-in-four-out valve 7 and the second outlet of the heat exchanger 3, respectively, and the outlet is connected to the second inlet of the heating device 4. The third valve group 19 is used to control whether pure water from the one-in-four-out valve 7 or preheated water from the heat exchanger 3 enters the second heating channel of the heating device 4.

[0040] The inlet of the fourth valve group 22 is connected to the outlet of the booster valve 18, and the outlet is connected to the inlet of the fifth valve group 23. The fourth valve group 22 is used to control whether the pressurized hot water flows to the fifth valve group 23.

[0041] The inlet of the fifth valve group 23 is connected to the outlet of the fourth valve group 22, and the outlet is connected to the inlet of the sixth valve group 24. The fifth valve group 23 is used to control whether hot water from the fourth valve group 22 flows to the sixth valve group 24.

[0042] The inlet of the sixth valve group 24 is connected to the raw water pipe, the outlet of the second valve group 15, and the outlet of the fifth valve group 23, respectively, and the outlet is connected to the domestic water pipe. The sixth valve group 24 is used to control the on / off of raw water or hot water, and is opened when water needs to be supplied to the domestic water pipe.

[0043] The drive pump 1 adopts a centrifugal water pump structure and is driven by a DC motor. Its inlet is connected to the first outlet of the thermal storage container 5, and its outlet is connected to the first inlet of the heating device 4. The drive pump 1 is used to drive the hot water in the thermal storage container 5 to flow in the main circulation loop. Its speed is adjusted by the controller. The higher the speed, the greater the circulation flow.

[0044] The circulating pump 2 can be a diaphragm self-priming pump, whose inlet is connected to both the outlet of the water supply valve 8 and the outlet of the circulating valve 10, and whose outlet is connected to the first inlet of the heat exchanger 3. The circulating pump 2 is used to drive pure water or hot water in the thermal storage container 5 into the heat exchanger 3, and operates in both water intake and water supply modes.

[0045] The heating device 4 can employ an instant heating element, such as a thick-film heating element, and has two independent heating channels internally. The inlet of the first heating channel is the first water inlet, which is connected to the outlet of the drive pump 1; the outlet of the first heating channel is the first water outlet, which is connected to the first water inlet of the heat exchanger 3. The inlet of the second heating channel is the second water inlet, which is connected to the outlet of the third valve group 19; the outlet of the second heating channel is the second water outlet, which is connected to the inlet of the pressure boosting valve 18. The two channels of the heating device 4 can be controlled independently. The first channel is used to heat the circulating water, and the second channel is used to reheat the water flowing out of the heat exchanger 3.

[0046] Heat exchanger 3 adopts a plate heat exchanger structure, with two sets of isolated but heat-exchangeable flow channels inside. The inlet of the first flow channel is the first inlet, which is connected to the outlet of both the drive pump 1 and the circulating pump 2; the outlet of the first flow channel is the first outlet, which is connected to the inlet of the drain valve 12. The inlet of the second flow channel is the second inlet, which is connected to the outlet of the flow meter 9; the outlet of the second flow channel is the second outlet, which is connected to the inlet of the third valve group 19. Heat exchanger 3 is used to realize heat exchange between pure water and domestic water, or between circulating water and pure water.

[0047] The heat storage container 5, an instantaneous heating tank, adopts an insulated water tank structure. The inner liner is made of stainless steel, and the outer layer is wrapped with an insulation layer. The top of the container has an exhaust port and an air inlet. The exhaust port is connected to an exhaust valve, and the air inlet is connected to an air inlet valve, used to regulate the pressure inside the container. A liquid level sensor 51 is installed inside the container to detect the water level. The bottom of the container has a first water outlet, connected to the water inlet of the drive pump 1; a second water outlet is located on the side wall, connected to the water inlet of the circulation valve 10; and a drain outlet is also located at the bottom, connected to the heat tank drain pipe.

[0048] The flow meter 9 adopts a Hall effect flow meter structure. Its inlet is connected to the second outlet of the one-in-four-out valve 7, and its outlet is connected to the second inlet of the heat exchanger 3. The flow meter 9 is equipped with an impeller and a Hall effect sensor. The water flow drives the impeller to rotate, and the Hall effect sensor converts the rotation speed into a pulse signal and outputs it to the controller to measure the flow rate of pure water entering the heat exchanger 3.

[0049] The first temperature sensor 11 is an NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistor, installed in the pipe where the first outlet of the heat exchanger 3 is located, to detect the temperature of the water flowing out of the first set of flow channels of the heat exchanger 3.

[0050] The second temperature sensor 17 is an NTC thermistor, installed in the pipe where the second outlet of the heating device 4 is located, and is used to detect the final outlet temperature of the water after being heated by the second heating channel.

[0051] The third temperature sensor 13 is an NTC thermistor, installed in the pipe where the outlet of the drive pump 1 is located, and is used to detect the temperature of the water entering the first heating channel of the heating device 4.

[0052] The fourth temperature sensor 16 is an NTC thermistor, which is installed in the pipe where the inlet of the sixth valve group 24 is located, and is used to detect the temperature of the water entering the sixth valve group 24.

[0053] The fifth temperature sensor 20 is an NTC thermistor, which is installed in the pipe where the inlet of the third valve group 19 is located, and is used to detect the temperature of the water entering the third valve group 19.

[0054] The liquid level sensor 51 is a capacitive liquid level switch, installed inside the thermal storage container 5, used to detect the water level in the container and transmit the water level signal to the controller.

[0055] The pure water pipe is used to connect to the pure water source and is connected to the inlet of the heat exchange inlet valve 6.

[0056] The raw water pipe is used to connect to the raw water source and is connected to the inlet of the sixth valve group 24.

[0057] The domestic water pipe is labeled as a 3-point pipe and is directly connected to the second inlet of heat exchanger 3, and at the same time connected to the outlet of the sixth valve group 24, for providing domestic water to users.

[0058] The hot water pipe is labeled as a 2-point pipe and is directly connected to the outlet of the pressure booster valve 18 to provide hot water to users.

[0059] The drinking water pipe is labeled as a 3-point pipe and is directly connected to the fourth outlet of the 1-in-4-out valve 7 to provide drinking water to users.

[0060] The cold water pipe is labeled as cold water 0 to 2 flow adjustment and is connected to the outlet of the third valve group 19 to output cold water with adjustable flow rate.

[0061] The return pipe is labeled as a 2-point pipe and is connected to the outlet of the return valve 21 to return water to the heat storage container 5.

[0062] The drain pipe of the hot tank is connected to the drain outlet at the bottom of the heat storage container 5, and is used to drain the water stored in the container.

[0063] The heat exchange constant flow valve is connected between the inlet of the third valve group 19 and the second inlet of the heat exchanger 3, and is used to control the flow rate entering the second flow channel of the heat exchanger 3.

[0064] The controller employs a microcontroller unit, not shown in the attached diagram. The controller is connected via electrical cables to the drive pump 1, circulation pump 2, heating device 4, heat exchange inlet valve 6, one-in-four-outlet valve 7, water supply valve 8, circulation valve 10, drain valve 12, booster valve 18, reflux valve 21, first valve group 14, second valve group 15, third valve group 19, fourth valve group 22, fifth valve group 23, sixth valve group 24, and all sensors. The controller internally stores control programs and various preset parameters. By receiving signals from each sensor, processing them, and then issuing control commands to each actuator, the water treatment device operates automatically.

[0065] Further, see Figure 1b Another structural schematic diagram of the water treatment device shown. Figure 1b and Figure 1a The difference is that the heating device is used to heat the water in the heat storage container and to heat the water coming out of the second outlet of the heat exchanger 3.

[0066] For example, the heating device 4 includes two heating elements, namely a first heating element 41 disposed in the heat storage container and a second heating element 42 disposed in the pipeline of the second outlet of the heat exchanger.

[0067] In one specific embodiment, the first heating element 41 is an immersion-type electric heating tube or a flange-type electric heating tube. The first heating element 41 is fixedly installed inside the lower part or side wall of the heat storage container 1, ensuring that its heating section is completely submerged in water. To improve heat exchange uniformity, the first heating element 41 can be configured as a U-shaped, spiral, or finned structure. The finned structure can significantly increase the contact area with the heat storage medium, reduce the surface heat load, and prevent the heat storage medium from scaling or deteriorating due to local high temperature. The rated power of the first heating element 41 is usually configured to a high power level (e.g., accounting for 60%-80% of the total heating power) to meet the needs of rapid heat storage. A temperature sensor linked to the first heating element 41 is provided on the inner wall or center of the heat storage container. When the temperature of the heat storage medium is detected to be lower than a preset threshold (e.g., 60 degrees Celsius), the first heating element 41 starts to store heat; when the upper limit temperature is reached, the first heating element 41 stops heating and enters a heat preservation sleep state. A mechanical or self-resetting thermal protector is connected in series in the power supply circuit of the first heating element 41. When the container experiences dry burning or temperature runaway, the circuit is physically cut off to ensure safety.

[0068] Heating device 4 adopts a dual-body collaborative architecture of "regenerative heating + instantaneous heating". Its working principle is not a simple superposition of two heating elements, but an organic combination of "energy storage" and "instantaneous response" through timing control and fluid path management.

[0069] When in standby or ready state, the first heating element 41 is activated. The first heating element 41 centrally heats the medium inside the heat storage container, raising its temperature to a preset high-temperature heat storage temperature (e.g., 85℃-95℃). At this time, the second heating element 42 is in standby state. When there is a demand for hot water at the user end (i.e., the primary circulation of the heat exchanger starts), it enters a collaborative working mode. The working principle of the heating device 4 at this time is as follows: The high-temperature medium in the thermal storage container is pumped into a heat exchanger by a circulating pump to exchange heat with pure water. During this process, the temperature of the thermal storage medium gradually decreases as heat is released.

[0070] When the temperature in the heat storage container drops to a certain set value (e.g., 5°C below the set target temperature), or when the second outlet of the heat exchanger (i.e. the final outlet) detects that the water temperature has not reached the user-set value, the second heating element 42 is activated instantaneously.

[0071] The second heating element can be a thick-film heating element, an immersion electric heating tube, or a flange-type electric heating tube, etc., and this application does not impose any restrictions. The second heating element 42, due to its extremely low thermal inertia (high power density, and a heating / cooling rate exceeding 50℃ / s), is located on the pipeline at the second outlet of the heat exchanger, providing a second, precise heating of the warm water after the first heat exchange. Through a proportional-integral-derivative control algorithm, the second heating element 42 dynamically adjusts its duty cycle or power based on the difference between the actual outlet water temperature and the target temperature, performing a "peak-shaving and valley-filling" fine-tuning of the water temperature to ensure a constant terminal outlet water temperature.

[0072] The present invention will now be described in detail through specific embodiments.

[0073] Please see Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a water treatment device provided in an embodiment of the present invention, the method being used to control the water treatment device; S1. Obtain the current temperature of the heat exchanger by measuring the first temperature sensor.

[0074] S2. If the current temperature is lower than the preset insulation temperature threshold, control the drive pump and the heating device to start, so that the water in the heat storage container flows through the heating device and is heated, then enters the heat exchanger from the first inlet for heat exchange, and then flows back to the heat storage container from the first outlet until the temperature of the heat exchanger reaches the insulation temperature threshold, then control the drive pump and the heating device to stop working.

[0075] Specifically, the controller obtains the current temperature of the heat exchanger through the first temperature sensor. The controller has a pre-stored insulation temperature threshold, which is used to determine whether the heat exchanger needs additional heat. When the controller determines that the current temperature is below the insulation temperature threshold, it indicates that the heat stored in the heat exchanger is insufficient, and a heating cycle needs to be initiated. The controller then starts the drive pump and heating device. After the drive pump starts running, the water in the heat storage container begins to flow, sequentially passing through the heating device, the first inlet of the heat exchanger, the internal channels of the heat exchanger, and the first outlet of the heat exchanger, finally flowing back to the heat storage container, forming a closed loop. During the circulation process, the heating device heats the water flowing through it. The heated, high-temperature water enters the heat exchanger, where it transfers heat to the heat exchanger body through heat exchange, causing the heat exchanger temperature to gradually rise. The water, having released heat, cools down and flows back to the heat storage container to await the next round of heating. During the operation of the drive pump and heating device, the controller continuously monitors the current temperature of the heat exchanger through the first temperature sensor. The controller sends a stop command to the drive pump and heating device only when the current temperature of the heat exchanger rises to the insulation temperature threshold. The entire heating cycle ends and the heat exchanger is maintained at the temperature state corresponding to the insulation temperature threshold.

[0076] For example, the insulation temperature threshold is set to 65 degrees Celsius. The first temperature sensor detects that the current temperature of the heat exchanger is 20 degrees Celsius. The controller determines that heating is needed and immediately starts the drive pump and heating device. The drive pump circulates the water in the heat storage container at a flow rate of 5 liters per minute, and the heating device heats the circulating water from 20 degrees Celsius to 75 degrees Celsius. The 75-degree Celsius hot water enters the heat exchanger through the first inlet, transferring heat to the heat exchanger body as it flows inside. The heat exchanger temperature gradually rises from 20 degrees Celsius. The hot water cools down and flows out through the first outlet, returning to the heat storage container at approximately 50 degrees Celsius. After about 3 minutes of circulating heating, the first temperature sensor detects that the current temperature of the heat exchanger has reached 65 degrees Celsius. The controller immediately stops the drive pump and heating device, maintaining the heat exchanger at 65 degrees Celsius, completing the insulation preparation.

[0077] In one possible embodiment, the method further includes: In response to the received hot water command, the circulating pump is started so that external cold water enters the heat exchanger from the second inlet, is preheated, and then flows out from the second outlet.

[0078] When a user needs hot water, they send a hot water command to the controller via the water dispensing switch. Upon receiving the command, the controller sends a start signal to the circulating pump. The circulating pump then starts operating, driving external cold water into the second inlet of the heat exchanger. As the cold water flows through the internal channels of the heat exchanger, it exchanges heat with the heat exchanger body, absorbing the heat stored during the heat preservation phase, thus raising its own temperature. The preheated water flows out from the second outlet of the heat exchanger and is directly supplied to the user. During this water dispensing process, both the drive pump and the heating device are stopped. The drive pump stops to prevent the water in the heat storage container from flowing ineffectively in the main circulation loop, reducing unnecessary energy consumption and mechanical wear; the heating device stops because the water temperature after preheating by the heat exchanger is usually sufficient for general water use, eliminating the need for additional heating. This control method ensures a simple and efficient water dispensing process while achieving the design goal of energy saving and consumption reduction.

[0079] For example, when a user presses the water dispenser switch, the controller immediately starts the circulation pump upon receiving the hot water command. At this point, the heat exchanger has already been heated to 65 degrees Celsius during the heat preservation phase, and both the drive pump and the heating device are stopped. External cold water at 10 degrees Celsius enters the heat exchanger at a flow rate of 4 liters per minute through the second inlet. The cold water absorbs heat as it flows through the heat exchanger, reaching a temperature of 52 degrees Celsius when it exits the second outlet, providing the user with warm drinking water. The entire water dispensing process takes only a few seconds, without waiting for the heating device to start.

[0080] This embodiment utilizes the aforementioned control method to actively heat the heat exchanger during non-water-drawing periods using a drive pump and heating device, maintaining it at a preset insulation temperature threshold, thus making the heat exchanger a stable heat storage unit. When a user needs to draw water, simply activating the circulation pump allows cold water to pass through the heat exchanger to obtain preheated warm water, eliminating the need to wait for the heating device to start and achieving an instant hot water effect. This method of pre-storing heat in the heat exchanger rather than continuously heating the flowing water, combined with a dual-pump division of labor control strategy, shortens the water draw response time and reduces the continuous operation time of the circulation pump, thereby improving the user experience, extending equipment lifespan, and reducing energy consumption.

[0081] In one embodiment, see Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the water replenishment process provided in the embodiments of this application, which specifically includes the following steps: S3. Detect the current water level of the thermal storage container using a liquid level sensor.

[0082] Specifically, the controller continuously monitors the water level inside the thermal storage container using a level sensor. The level sensor, installed inside or outside the container, senses the water level in real time and converts the detected signal into an electrical signal, which is then transmitted to the controller. The controller acquires the signal output from the level sensor according to a preset sampling period and determines the current water level in the thermal storage container based on the correlation between the signal and the water level. This monitoring process is independent of other operating modes of the water treatment device. At any stage of equipment operation, including during heat preservation circulation, user water intake, or standby mode, the controller acquires the current water level data at fixed time intervals to ensure timely monitoring of water volume changes within the thermal storage container.

[0083] For example, the controller acquires a water level signal once per second via a liquid level sensor. The liquid level sensor outputs a voltage value corresponding to the water level height. The controller calculates the current water level based on the internally stored voltage-water level correspondence, determining that the current water level is 30% of the total capacity of the thermal storage container, i.e., the current water level is 30. This data is stored by the controller and used for subsequent water replenishment decisions.

[0084] S4. If the current water level is lower than the preset water replenishment level threshold, control the booster pump to start so that external cold water enters the heat exchanger from the second inlet and flows into the heat storage container from the second outlet until the water level in the heat storage container reaches the water replenishment level threshold.

[0085] Specifically, the controller compares the current water level obtained in step S3 with the internally preset water replenishment level threshold. The water replenishment level threshold represents the minimum water level at which the thermal storage container needs to be replenished; this value is preset based on the design capacity of the water treatment device and water demand. When the controller determines that the current water level is lower than the water replenishment level threshold, it indicates that the water storage in the thermal storage container is below the safety line and cannot meet the subsequent heat preservation cycle or user water demand, requiring the water replenishment procedure to be initiated. The controller then sends a start signal to the booster pump. After the booster pump starts operating, it drives external cold water into the second inlet of the heat exchanger. As the external cold water flows through the internal channels of the heat exchanger, it exchanges heat with the heat exchanger body, which is in a heat preservation state, absorbing the heat stored in the heat exchanger and raising its own temperature. The preheated water flows out from the second outlet of the heat exchanger and enters the thermal storage container through the connecting pipe. As the preheated water continues to flow in, the current water level in the thermal storage container gradually rises. During the water replenishment process, the controller continues to acquire the current water level via the level sensor at a fixed sampling period and compares the current water level with the replenishment water level threshold in real time. When the current water level reaches the replenishment water level threshold, the controller sends a stop signal to the booster pump, and the water replenishment process ends. Throughout the entire water replenishment process, both the drive pump and the heating device remain stopped. The drive pump stops to avoid interference between the main circulation loop and the water replenishment loop, and the heating device stops because the heat exchanger has sufficient preheating capacity to preheat the external cold water.

[0086] For example, the water replenishment threshold is set to 50% of the total capacity of the thermal storage container. The controller, using a level sensor, detects a current water level of 30%, indicating it's below the replenishment threshold, and immediately starts the booster pump. At this point, the heat exchanger has already been heated to 65 degrees Celsius during the insulation phase, and both the drive pump and heating device are stopped. External cold water, at 15 degrees Celsius, enters the heat exchanger at a flow rate of 3 liters per minute through the second inlet, absorbs heat, and flows out through the second outlet, its temperature rising to 45 degrees Celsius before entering the thermal storage container. During the replenishment process, the controller reads the current water level every second. After approximately 2 minutes of replenishment, the level sensor detects that the current water level has reached 50%, and the controller immediately stops the booster pump. The replenishment is complete, and the water level in the thermal storage container returns to the set level.

[0087] This embodiment achieves automatic monitoring and intelligent water replenishment of the water level in the thermal storage container. When the water level falls below a preset threshold, the controller automatically starts the booster pump, using the heat stored in the heat exchanger to preheat the cold water before it is introduced into the container. This maintains sufficient water volume in the container while preventing direct entry of cold water that could cause significant temperature fluctuations in the water treatment device. During the water replenishment process, the drive pump and heating device remain stopped, reducing unnecessary energy consumption and equipment wear. This water level control strategy, together with the insulation control and water intake control, constitutes a complete operating logic for the water treatment device, ensuring stable and reliable operation of the instantaneous constant temperature water supply device under any operating conditions.

[0088] In one embodiment, the method of this application further includes: S5. If the current water level is lower than the preset dry-burning protection water level threshold, control the drive pump and the heating device to stop working and generate a water shortage alarm signal.

[0089] Specifically, the controller compares the current water level with the internally preset dry-burn protection water level threshold in real time at any stage of the water treatment unit's operation. The dry-burn protection water level threshold is another safety threshold that, when the water level falls below the replenishment water level threshold, indicates that the water in the thermal storage container is nearly depleted and insufficient to maintain the safe operation of the heating unit. When the controller determines that the current water level is below the dry-burn protection water level threshold, it immediately triggers the highest priority protection action. The controller issues a forced stop command to the drive pump and heating unit, regardless of whether the water treatment unit is in heat preservation circulation, user water intake, or any other operating mode; both the drive pump and heating unit immediately stop operating. Simultaneously, the controller generates a water shortage alarm signal, which can drive a buzzer to sound, illuminate an alarm indicator light, or send an alarm message to the display interface to prompt the user to address the water shortage fault promptly. During the water shortage alarm state, the controller will no longer respond to any control commands to start the drive pump or heating unit, including heat preservation start commands and secondary heating commands, until the fault is manually resolved and the water treatment unit is manually reset. This protection logic is independent of all other control programs, ensuring that the heating unit will never operate in a dangerous water shortage state under any circumstances.

[0090] For example, the dry-burn protection water level threshold is set to 5% of the total capacity of the thermal storage container. During standby at night, the water treatment unit experiences a water supply failure due to an unexpected blockage in the inlet pipe, causing the water level in the thermal storage container to gradually decrease. Around dawn, the level sensor detects that the current water level has dropped to 4% of the total capacity, below the dry-burn protection threshold. The controller immediately sends a forced stop command to the drive pump and heating device, both of which immediately cease operation. Simultaneously, the red alarm light on the controller's drive panel flashes, and the E05 water shortage alarm code is displayed on the screen. At 8:00 AM, the water treatment unit receives a preset heat preservation start command, but because the water shortage alarm has not yet been cleared, the controller ignores the command and refuses to start the drive pump and heating device. The water treatment unit only resumes normal operation after maintenance personnel arrive, clear the pipe blockage, and manually press the reset switch.

[0091] This embodiment provides all-weather safety protection for the heating device. When the current water level falls below the dry-burning protection threshold, the controller forcibly stops the pump and heating device with the highest priority, fundamentally preventing dry-burning accidents. The generation of a water shortage alarm signal promptly prompts the user to intervene and prevent the fault from persisting. This protection mechanism is independent of the conventional control logic, ensuring that the heating device will not operate in a water shortage state under any abnormal operating conditions, thereby significantly improving the safety and reliability of the water treatment device and extending the equipment's service life.

[0092] In one embodiment, see Figure 5 , Figure 5 The schematic diagram of the adjustment process of the circulating pump provided in the embodiment of this application specifically includes the following steps: S21. Receive hot water command from user.

[0093] S22. Analyze the hot water command to obtain the target water output speed; S23. Measure the current water flow rate using a flow meter, and calculate the speed difference between the current water flow rate and the target water flow rate; S24. Adjust the current speed of the circulating pump according to the speed difference.

[0094] In step S21, the controller receives a hot water dispensing command from the user. This command can be generated in various ways, such as by the user pressing a water dispensing switch, touching a water dispensing panel, or sending a command via voice control or a remote application. Regardless of the interaction method used, the controller ultimately receives an electrical signal representing the water dispensing demand, which is recognized as a hot water dispensing command.

[0095] In step S22, the controller parses the received hot water dispensing command and extracts the target water dispensing speed. The target water dispensing speed can be a value directly set by the user through the operating interface, or it can be a parameter automatically generated by the water treatment device based on default configuration or historical usage habits. For example, the user may select a high flow, medium flow, or low flow mode using a knob or button; each mode corresponds to a specific target water dispensing speed value. After parsing the command, the controller stores the target water dispensing speed as a reference value for subsequent control.

[0096] In step S23, the controller measures the current water velocity in real time using a flow meter. The flow meter is installed on the pipeline between the second outlet of the heat exchanger and the outlet terminal, accurately sensing the volume of water flowing per unit time and converting the measurement result into an electrical signal transmitted to the controller. The controller reads the output value of the flow meter to obtain the current water velocity. Then, the controller calculates the difference between the current water velocity and the target water velocity obtained in step S22, i.e., the velocity difference. A positive difference indicates that the current water velocity is higher than the target value, and a negative difference indicates that the current water velocity is lower than the target value.

[0097] In step S24, the controller adjusts the current speed of the circulating pump based on the speed difference calculated in step S23. The speed of the circulating pump is positively correlated with the water outlet speed; increasing the speed increases the water outlet speed, while decreasing the speed decreases it. The controller uses a closed-loop control algorithm, taking the speed difference as input to calculate the required speed change. If the speed difference is positive, meaning the current water outlet speed is higher than the target value, the controller reduces the current speed of the circulating pump, causing the water outlet speed to decrease; if the speed difference is negative, meaning the current water outlet speed is lower than the target value, the controller increases the current speed of the circulating pump, causing the water outlet speed to increase. The controller continuously repeats steps S23 and S24, that is, continuously measuring the current water outlet speed, calculating the difference, and adjusting the speed, until the difference between the current water outlet speed and the target water outlet speed is reduced to within the allowable error range, achieving precise and stable control of the water outlet speed.

[0098] The closed-loop control algorithm used by the controller is specifically implemented as a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control algorithm. This algorithm generates a precise speed adjustment value by performing proportional, integral, and derivative operations on the speed difference, thereby achieving continuous and stable control of the circulating pump speed.

[0099] The controller has a pre-stored set of PID control parameters, including the proportional coefficient Kp, integral coefficient Ki, and derivative coefficient Kd. These three coefficients were obtained through experimental tuning based on the characteristics of the water treatment device, ensuring that the control process has fast response capability and good stability. In each control cycle, the controller performs PID calculations according to the following steps: The first step is to calculate the velocity difference for the current control cycle, denoted as e. The velocity difference is equal to the target outflow velocity minus the current outflow velocity, that is, e equals the target outflow velocity minus the current outflow velocity.

[0100] The second step is to calculate the proportional adjustment amount P. The proportional adjustment amount is equal to the proportional coefficient Kp multiplied by the current speed difference e. The proportional adjustment amount can respond instantly to the current deviation; the larger the deviation, the larger the adjustment amount.

[0101] The third step is to calculate the integral adjustment I. The integral adjustment is equal to the integral coefficient Ki multiplied by the cumulative value of the speed difference e over time. The integral adjustment is used to eliminate static errors. When a small deviation exists in the water treatment device for a long time, the integral term will gradually accumulate, driving the speed to be continuously adjusted until the deviation is eliminated.

[0102] The fourth step is to calculate the differential adjustment amount D. The differential adjustment amount is equal to the differential coefficient Kd multiplied by the rate of change of the speed difference e, which is the current speed difference minus the speed difference of the previous control cycle. The differential adjustment amount can predict the trend of deviation change and apply suppression in advance when the deviation increases sharply, preventing overshoot and oscillation of the water treatment device.

[0103] Fifth, the proportional control quantity P, integral control quantity I, and derivative control quantity D are added together to obtain the total control quantity. The controller adds the total control quantity to the current speed of the circulating pump to obtain the new target speed, and sends a speed adjustment command to the circulating pump to make the circulating pump run at the new target speed.

[0104] Step six: Enter the next control cycle and repeat steps one through five. The length of the control cycle is set according to the response speed of the water treatment device, typically ranging from tens to hundreds of milliseconds, to ensure timely response to changes in the effluent flow rate.

[0105] In practical applications, the controller also limits the PID calculation results to prevent the calculated target speed from exceeding the safe operating range of the circulating pump. Simultaneously, the controller dynamically adjusts the control strategy based on the magnitude of the speed difference. When the speed difference is large, proportional control is prioritized for rapid convergence; when the speed difference is small, integral control is strengthened to ensure precision and stability.

[0106] This embodiment achieves precise closed-loop control of the water outlet speed. Users can set a target water outlet speed via a hot water command, and the controller dynamically adjusts the circulation pump speed based on real-time feedback from the flow meter, ensuring that the actual water outlet speed always matches the target value. This mechanism effectively overcomes the impact of external water pressure fluctuations and changes in pipeline resistance on the water flow rate, providing users with a stable and comfortable water access experience, while avoiding energy waste or inconvenience caused by excessive or insufficient flow.

[0107] In one embodiment, see Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the secondary heating process provided in an embodiment of this application, which specifically includes the following steps: S6. Determine the target outlet water temperature based on the hot water extraction command; S7. Measure the temperature of the water flowing out from the second outlet of the heat exchanger using the second temperature sensor; S8. If the outlet water temperature is lower than the target outlet water temperature, control the heating device to start and reheat the water flowing out from the second outlet until the outlet water temperature reaches the target outlet water temperature.

[0108] In step S6, the controller determines the target outlet water temperature based on the received hot water dispensing command. The hot water dispensing command contains the user's desired outlet water temperature, which can be set in various ways. The user can directly input a specific value using the temperature adjustment buttons on the control panel, such as setting it to 45 degrees Celsius or 85 degrees Celsius. The user can also select a preset mode, such as warm water mode, boiling water mode, or tea brewing mode, each mode corresponding to a pre-stored target outlet water temperature. After parsing the hot water dispensing command, the controller extracts or matches the target outlet water temperature from it and stores this value as the reference for subsequent temperature control.

[0109] In step S7, the controller measures the temperature of the water flowing out of the second outlet of the heat exchanger in real time using a second temperature sensor. The second temperature sensor is installed on the pipeline between the second outlet of the heat exchanger and the heating device, or on the pipeline between the heating device and the outlet terminal; the specific location depends on the secondary heating implementation method. This sensor can accurately sense the temperature of the water flowing through it and convert the temperature signal into an electrical signal, which is then transmitted to the controller. The controller reads the output value of the second temperature sensor according to a fixed sampling period to obtain the current outlet water temperature. This measurement process continues during water intake, providing real-time feedback for subsequent temperature adjustment.

[0110] In step S8, the controller compares the outlet water temperature measured in step S7 with the target outlet water temperature determined in step S6. If the outlet water temperature is lower than the target outlet water temperature, it indicates that the water temperature after preheating by the heat exchanger has not reached the user's expectation, and secondary heating needs to be initiated for compensation. The controller sends a start command to the heating device, which then starts working to reheat the water flowing out of the second outlet of the heat exchanger. During the heating process, the water flows through the internal channels of the heating device, absorbing heat to further increase its temperature, and then flows out from the outlet terminal to supply the user. The controller continues to monitor the outlet water temperature through the second temperature sensor during the operation of the heating device and compares the outlet water temperature with the target outlet water temperature in real time. As long as the outlet water temperature remains lower than the target outlet water temperature, the heating device remains operational. When the outlet water temperature reaches the target outlet water temperature, the controller sends a stop command to the heating device, and the secondary heating process ends. If the outlet water temperature drops again during subsequent water intake, the controller will restart the heating device for compensation to ensure that the outlet water temperature remains stable near the target value throughout the entire water intake period.

[0111] It should be noted that the secondary heating process and the circulation pump speed adjustment process described in steps S2 to S24 can be carried out simultaneously without interference. The circulation pump is responsible for controlling the water output speed, and the heating device is responsible for controlling the water output temperature. Under the unified coordination of the controller, the two work together to achieve a precise response to the user's water demand.

[0112] For example, a user sets the water temperature to 85 degrees Celsius via the control panel and presses the water dispensing switch. The controller interprets the hot water dispensing command and determines the target outlet water temperature to be 85 degrees Celsius. After water dispensing begins, the controller starts the circulation pump, and external cold water, preheated by the heat exchanger, flows out from the second outlet. At this time, the second temperature sensor measures an outlet water temperature of 70 degrees Celsius, lower than the target outlet water temperature of 85 degrees Celsius. The controller immediately starts the heating device to reheat the 70-degree Celsius water flowing from the heat exchanger. As the water flows through the heating device, its temperature rises, and the second temperature sensor detects that the outlet water temperature is gradually increasing. After approximately 5 seconds of continuous heating, the outlet water temperature reaches 85 degrees Celsius, and the controller then stops the heating device. During subsequent water dispensing, the second temperature sensor continuously monitors the outlet water temperature. When the detected temperature drops to 83 degrees Celsius, the controller restarts the heating device to compensate, causing the outlet water temperature to quickly rise back to 85 degrees Celsius, ensuring that the user receives hot water at a constant temperature throughout the entire water dispensing process.

[0113] This embodiment achieves precise closed-loop control of the outlet water temperature. After the user sets the target outlet water temperature via a hot water command, the controller dynamically determines whether to activate the heating device for secondary heating based on real-time feedback from the second temperature sensor, ensuring that the actual outlet water temperature always matches the user's expectation. This mechanism effectively compensates for potential insufficient preheating temperature in the heat exchanger, ensuring that the outlet water temperature accurately meets the target even when the inlet water temperature is low or the water flow rate is high, providing users with a stable, comfortable, and personalized hot water experience.

[0114] In one embodiment, S1, controlling the start of the drive pump and the heating device if the current temperature is lower than a preset heat preservation temperature threshold, includes: S11. Calculate the temperature difference between the current temperature and the insulation temperature threshold. S12. Calculate the current rotation speed and current heating power based on the temperature difference; S13. Control the drive pump to rotate based on the current rotation speed value, and control the heating device to heat based on the current heating power.

[0115] In step S11, after determining that the current temperature is lower than the insulation temperature threshold, the controller first calculates the temperature difference between the current temperature and the insulation temperature threshold. The temperature difference is calculated by subtracting the current temperature from the insulation temperature threshold, resulting in a positive number representing the required temperature increase of the heat exchanger. The larger the temperature difference, the further the heat exchanger deviates from the target temperature, requiring stronger heating capacity to quickly raise the temperature; the smaller the temperature difference, the closer the heat exchanger is to the target temperature, requiring only a smaller heating capacity to maintain the temperature rise.

[0116] In step S12, the controller calculates the current speed of the drive pump and the current heating power of the heating device based on the temperature difference obtained in step S11 using a preset control algorithm. This calculation process can be implemented in various ways; this embodiment describes it in detail using a combination of piecewise linear interpolation algorithm and proportional control algorithm.

[0117] The controller has a pre-stored temperature difference mapping table, which associates different temperature difference ranges with corresponding base values ​​for the drive pump speed and the heating device power. The temperature difference mapping table is obtained through experimental calibration to ensure that the drive pump speed and heating device power can match the thermodynamic characteristics of the water treatment device under different temperature difference conditions, thereby achieving efficient and stable temperature rise control.

[0118] The specific form of the temperature difference mapping table is as follows: When the temperature difference is greater than 30 degrees Celsius, the base value of the drive pump speed is set to 3000 revolutions per minute, and the base value of the heating device power is set to 2000 watts; when the temperature difference is between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, the base value of the drive pump speed is set to 2500 revolutions per minute, and the base value of the heating device power is set to 1600 watts; when the temperature difference is between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius, the base value of the drive pump speed is set to 2000 revolutions per minute, and the base value of the heating device power is set to 1200 watts; when the temperature difference is between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius, the base value of the drive pump speed is set to 1500 revolutions per minute, and the base value of the heating device power is set to 800 watts; when the temperature difference is between 0 and 5 degrees Celsius, the base value of the drive pump speed is set to 1000 revolutions per minute, and the base value of the heating device power is set to 400 watts.

[0119] In actual control processes, the temperature difference often doesn't fall precisely on the interval boundary. Therefore, the controller uses linear interpolation to calculate the accurate current rotational speed and current heating power. Taking the calculation of the pump drive speed as an example, assume the temperature difference is 18 degrees Celsius, falling within the 10-20 degree Celsius range. The lower limit of this range is 10 degrees Celsius, corresponding to a rotational speed of 2000 rpm, and the upper limit is 20 degrees Celsius, corresponding to a rotational speed of 2500 rpm. The controller first calculates the relative position of the temperature difference within the range, i.e., the difference between 18 and 10 divided by the difference between 20 and 10, which equals 0.8. Then, it calculates the rotational speed difference, i.e., the upper limit rotational speed of 2500 minus the lower limit rotational speed of 2000 equals 500 rpm. Finally, it adds the relative position of 0.8 to the lower limit rotational speed of 2000, multiplied by the rotational speed difference of 500, to obtain the current rotational speed of 2000 plus 400, which equals 2400 rpm. The calculation of the heating device power uses the same method. Taking the same temperature difference of 18 degrees Celsius as an example, the lower limit of the power range is 1200 watts, the upper limit is 1600 watts, the power difference is 400 watts, the relative position is 0.8 multiplied by 400 equals 320 watts, and adding the lower limit of 1200 watts, we get the current heating power value of 1520 watts.

[0120] Building upon basic piecewise linear interpolation, the controller incorporates a proportional gain factor to fine-tune the calculation results. This proportional gain factor dynamically adjusts based on the rate of change of the temperature difference, resulting in a smoother control process. The rate of change of the temperature difference equals the current temperature difference minus the temperature difference from the previous control cycle. When the rate of change of the temperature difference is positive, it indicates that the heat exchanger's heating rate is lower than expected, and the controller appropriately increases the speed and power based on the interpolation calculation. Conversely, when the rate of change of the temperature difference is negative, it indicates that the heat exchanger's heating rate is too fast, and the controller appropriately reduces the speed and power to prevent temperature overshoot.

[0121] In addition, the controller limits the calculated current rotational speed and heating power values ​​to ensure they do not exceed the permissible operating range of the drive pump and heating device. The maximum rotational speed of the drive pump is limited to 3500 revolutions per minute, and the minimum is limited to 500 revolutions per minute; the maximum power of the heating device is limited to 2500 watts, and the minimum is limited to 100 watts. When the calculated results exceed the limits, the controller uses the boundary values ​​as the final control command.

[0122] For example, the current temperature is 20 degrees Celsius, the insulation temperature threshold is 65 degrees Celsius, and the temperature difference is 45 degrees Celsius. This difference is greater than 30 degrees Celsius, falling into the maximum temperature difference range. The controller directly takes the base value from the mapping table, sets the current speed of the drive pump to 3000 revolutions per minute, and the current power of the heating device to 2000 watts.

[0123] After a period of heating, the heat exchanger temperature rises to 50 degrees Celsius, and the temperature difference becomes 15 degrees Celsius. The controller recalculates, and 15 degrees Celsius falls within the 10-20 degree Celsius range. The relative position is calculated as the difference between 15 and 10 divided by the difference between 20 and 10, which equals 0.5. The speed difference is 2500 minus 2000 equals 500 revolutions per minute, and the current speed is 2000 plus 0.5 multiplied by 500 equals 2250 revolutions per minute. The power difference is 1600 minus 1200 equals 400 watts, and the current power is 1200 plus 0.5 multiplied by 400 equals 1400 watts. At this point, the rate of change of the temperature difference is -15 (the difference of 30 in the previous cycle minus the current difference of 15), indicating a rapid heating rate. The controller introduces a proportional adjustment factor, reducing both the speed and power by 5%, ultimately setting the drive pump speed to 2137 revolutions per minute and the heating device power to 1330 watts.

[0124] When the heat exchanger temperature rises to 60 degrees Celsius, the temperature difference becomes 5 degrees Celsius, falling into the 0-5 degree Celsius range. The relative position is calculated as the difference between 5 and 0 divided by the difference between 5 and 0, which equals 1.0. The speed difference is 1500 minus 1000 equals 500 revolutions per minute; the current speed is 1000 plus 1.0 multiplied by 500 equals 1500 revolutions per minute. The power difference is 800 minus 400 equals 400 watts; the current power is 400 plus 1.0 multiplied by 400 equals 800 watts. The rate of change of the temperature difference is 10 (previous cycle difference 15 minus current difference 5), indicating a slowdown in the heating rate. The controller introduces a proportional adjustment factor, increasing both the speed and power by 3%, ultimately setting the drive pump speed to 1545 revolutions per minute and the heating device power to 824 watts, allowing the heat exchanger to steadily approach 65 degrees Celsius.

[0125] In step S13, the controller sends the current rotational speed value calculated in step S12 as a control command to the drive pump. The drive pump then operates according to this rotational speed value, driving the water in the heat storage container to circulate in the main circulation loop. Simultaneously, the controller sends the calculated current heating power as a control command to the heating device, which then heats the water flowing through it according to this power value. During the operation of the drive pump and heating device, the controller continuously monitors the current temperature of the heat exchanger through the first temperature sensor and repeatedly performs steps S11 to S13, recalculating the temperature difference based on the latest current temperature and dynamically updating the rotational speed of the drive pump and the power of the heating device, forming a closed-loop control process. As the heat exchanger temperature gradually rises, the temperature difference continuously decreases, and the rotational speed of the drive pump and the power of the heating device also decrease accordingly. Finally, when the heat exchanger temperature reaches the insulation temperature threshold, the temperature difference is zero, the controller stops the drive pump and heating device, and the insulation process ends.

[0126] For example, the insulation temperature threshold is set to 65 degrees Celsius, the current temperature is 20 degrees Celsius, and the temperature difference is 45 degrees Celsius. The controller calculates based on its internal proportional relationship and sets the current speed of the drive pump to 3000 revolutions per minute and the current heating power of the heating device to 2000 watts. The drive pump circulates the water at 3000 revolutions per minute, and the heating device heats the water at 2000 watts, causing the heat exchanger temperature to rise rapidly.

[0127] When the heat exchanger temperature rises to 50 degrees Celsius, the temperature difference becomes 15 degrees Celsius. The controller recalculates, reducing the drive pump speed to 2000 revolutions per minute and the heating device power to 1200 watts, weakening the heating intensity and slowing the rate of heat exchanger heating.

[0128] When the heat exchanger temperature rises to 60 degrees Celsius, the temperature difference becomes 5 degrees Celsius. The controller further reduces the drive pump speed to 1000 revolutions per minute and the heating device power to 500 watts, using minimal heating intensity to allow the heat exchanger to smoothly approach 65 degrees Celsius. Finally, the heat exchanger temperature reaches 65 degrees Celsius, the temperature difference is zero, the controller stops driving the pump and heating device, and the heat exchanger stabilizes at the target temperature.

[0129] This embodiment achieves dynamic adjustment of the drive pump speed and heating device power during the heat preservation process. Based on the difference between the current temperature and the heat preservation temperature threshold, the controller intelligently matches the heating intensity. When the temperature deviates significantly, it rapidly increases the temperature to shorten the response time, and when approaching the target temperature, it heats up gradually to avoid overshoot, ensuring that the heat exchanger temperature smoothly and accurately reaches the set value. This tiered adjustment strategy not only improves heat preservation efficiency and reduces energy waste, but also reduces thermal stress impact on the equipment and extends the service life of the heating device and drive pump.

[0130] In one embodiment, it also includes: S9. Real-time statistics of the cumulative running time of the circulating pump; S10. When the cumulative running time reaches the preset expected lifespan, a maintenance prompt signal is generated.

[0131] Step S9: The controller performs real-time statistics on the cumulative runtime of the circulating pump. Cumulative runtime refers to the total operating time of the circulating pump from its initial commissioning. The controller has a dedicated timing register to store the cumulative runtime data. Each time the circulating pump starts, the controller records the timestamp of the start time; each time the circulating pump stops, the controller records the timestamp of the stop time, calculates the duration of this operation, and then adds this duration to the timing register. The data in the timing register is accumulated in seconds or minutes and periodically written to the controller's non-volatile memory to ensure that the cumulative runtime data is not lost when the water treatment device is powered off. When the water treatment device is powered back on, the controller first reads the previously stored cumulative runtime from the non-volatile memory and then continues the accumulation and statistics based on this. This statistical process continues throughout the entire lifecycle of the equipment and is unaffected by restarting or power outages of the water treatment device.

[0132] During the statistical process, the controller precisely times each run of the circulating pump. Whether it's a brief run when a user draws water or a continuous run when replenishing water, every start and stop is accurately recorded. The controller uses a real-time clock module or a timer from the water treatment device as the timing reference to ensure the accuracy of the time statistics. Simultaneously, the controller periodically verifies the timing data to prevent data errors caused by timer overflow or interference.

[0133] In step S10, the controller compares the cumulative runtime obtained in step S9 with the internally preset expected lifespan. The expected lifespan is the design lifespan of the circulating pump, typically measured in hours, such as 5000 or 10000 hours. This value is determined by the circulating pump manufacturer based on factors such as the pump's mechanical structure, bearing life, and motor insulation class, and is pre-stored in the controller's parameter memory when the water treatment device leaves the factory. When the controller determines that the cumulative runtime has reached or exceeded the expected lifespan, it indicates that the circulating pump has been running for a sufficient period, its internal mechanical components may be worn, and motor performance may have degraded, requiring the user to perform maintenance or replacement. The controller then generates a maintenance reminder signal. The maintenance reminder signal can take various forms, such as displaying a maintenance reminder code or text message on the device's screen, illuminating a maintenance indicator light, emitting an intermittent alarm sound via a buzzer, or sending a maintenance notification to the user's mobile application via a communication interface. After the maintenance reminder signal is generated, the controller continues to monitor the cumulative runtime and repeats the reminder each time a preset maintenance reminder interval is reached, until the user confirms or completes the maintenance operation.

[0134] It should be noted that multiple thresholds can be set for the expected lifespan to provide tiered alerts. For example, when the cumulative running time reaches 80% of the expected lifespan, a pre-maintenance alert signal is generated to remind the user to prepare spare parts or schedule maintenance; when it reaches 100% of the expected lifespan, a formal maintenance alert signal is generated, advising the user to perform maintenance immediately; and when it exceeds 120% of the expected lifespan, an emergency maintenance alert signal is generated, warning the user that the circulating pump has exceeded its service life and there is a risk of failure.

[0135] This embodiment enables proactive monitoring and intelligent maintenance alerts for the circulating pump's operating status. The controller continuously monitors the pump's cumulative operating time and generates tiered maintenance alert signals when the pump reaches its preset expected lifespan, reminding the user to perform timely maintenance or replacement. This mechanism transforms reactive fault repair of the circulating pump into proactive preventative maintenance, effectively preventing water treatment device downtime due to sudden pump failure, extending the overall lifespan of the equipment, and reducing user maintenance costs and inconvenience caused by equipment malfunctions.

[0136] In one embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, which stores a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the control method of the water treatment device described above.

[0137] It should be noted that the functions or steps that can be implemented by the computer-readable storage medium or computer device described above can be referred to the relevant descriptions on the server side and client side in the foregoing method embodiments. To avoid repetition, they will not be described one by one here.

[0138] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium. When executed, the computer program can include the processes of the embodiments of the above methods. Any references to memory, storage, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include non-volatile and / or volatile memory. Non-volatile memory may include read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory may include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in a variety of forms, such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), dual data rate SDRAM (DDRSDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), synchronous link DRAM (SLDRAM), RAMbus direct RAM (RDRAM), direct memory bus dynamic RAM (DRDRAM), and memory bus dynamic RAM (RDRAM), etc.

[0139] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the above-described division of functional units and modules is used as an example. In practical applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional units and modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different functional units or modules to complete all or part of the functions described above.

[0140] The above-described embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and are not intended to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, and should all be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for a water treatment device, characterized in that, The water treatment device includes: a thermal storage container, a heating device, a drive pump, a circulation pump, a heat exchanger, and a controller; The controller is electrically connected to the drive pump, the circulation pump, and the heating device, respectively. The method includes the following steps: The current temperature of the heat exchanger is measured by the first temperature sensor. If the current temperature is lower than the preset insulation temperature threshold, the drive pump and the heating device are started so that the water in the heat storage container is heated by the heating device, enters the heat exchanger from the first inlet for heat exchange, and then flows back to the heat storage container from the first outlet.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating device includes a heating element for heating water in the heat storage container and for heating water coming out of the second outlet of the heat exchanger.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water treatment device also includes a booster pump; The method further includes: The current water level of the thermal storage container is detected by a liquid level sensor; If the current water level is lower than the preset water replenishment level threshold, the booster pump is started so that external cold water enters the heat exchanger from the second inlet and flows into the heat storage container from the second outlet until the water level in the heat storage container reaches the water replenishment level threshold.

4. The control method according to claim 3, characterized in that, Also includes: If the current water level is lower than the preset dry-burning protection water level threshold, the drive pump and the heating device will stop working, and a water shortage alarm signal will be generated.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: In response to the received hot water command, the circulating pump is controlled to start so that external cold water enters the heat exchanger from the second inlet and flows out from the second outlet.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The step of controlling the circulation pump to start in response to a received hot water dispensing command includes: Receive hot water requests from users. The target water output speed is obtained by parsing the hot water command; The current water flow rate is measured by a flow meter, and the speed difference between the current water flow rate and the target water flow rate is calculated. The current speed of the circulating pump is adjusted according to the speed difference.

7. The control method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The method of responding to a hot water intake command and controlling the circulation pump to start, so that external cold water enters the heat exchanger from the second inlet and flows out from the second outlet, further includes: The target outlet water temperature is determined based on the hot water command; The temperature of the water flowing out from the second outlet of the heat exchanger is measured by a second temperature sensor. If the outlet water temperature is lower than the target outlet water temperature, the heating device is activated to reheat the water flowing out from the second outlet until the outlet water temperature reaches the target outlet water temperature.

8. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control of starting the drive pump and the heating device includes: Calculate the temperature difference between the current temperature and the insulation temperature threshold. Calculate the current rotation speed and current heating power based on the temperature difference; The drive pump is controlled to rotate based on the current rotational speed value, and the heating device is controlled to heat based on the current heating power.

9. A water treatment device, characterized in that, The device is used to control a water treatment apparatus, and the device is configured to implement the steps of the control method for the water treatment apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the control method for the water treatment apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

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