A method and system for controlling a water heater of an intelligent linked washing machine

Abstract

The application discloses a water heater control method and system of an intelligent linkage washing machine, and relates to the technical field of water heaters. The method comprises the following steps: determining a water use mode based on signals of an inlet water flow sensor and an outlet water flow sensor, wherein the water use mode comprises a washing mode and a bathing mode; if the water use mode is the washing mode, controlling a micro-nano bubble generating device to start air supplementing, and after the air supplementing of the micro-nano bubble generating device is completed, controlling the water heater to generate hot water based on a preset first target temperature, wherein the hot water is supplied to the washing machine after flowing through the micro-nano bubble generating device and a first pressure relief device. In the application, active hot water with suitable temperature and stable bubble concentration can be obtained from the self-starting stage of the washing machine, so that the cleaning efficiency and effect of the washing process are significantly improved, and the intelligent function linkage and efficient resource utilization between the water heater and the washing machine are realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water heater technology, and in particular to a water heater control method and system for an intelligent linked washing machine. Background Technology

[0002] Water heaters (such as gas water heaters), as a common hot water supply device, have seen their applications gradually expand beyond traditional bathing scenarios. Existing technologies include solutions that integrate micro-nano bubble generators into water heaters, utilizing the high specific surface area and negative surface charge of micro-nano bubbles to enhance the cleaning, sterilization, and comfort experience in personal hygiene scenarios such as bathing and face washing.

[0003] However, the inventors discovered that such solutions are typically designed only for bathing scenarios and struggle to automatically identify the operating conditions of the washing machine, nor can they provide the washing machine with hot water of suitable temperature and rich in micro-nano bubbles. Because the water usage characteristics of a washing machine differ from those of bathing, existing water heaters cannot automatically detect when the washing machine is running, nor can they provide a suitable and stable hot water temperature for the needs of washing clothes. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a water heater control method and system for an intelligent linked washing machine, aiming to solve the technical problem of how to provide a water heater system and control method that can intelligently identify the operating conditions of the washing machine and continuously and stably supply it with hot water of suitable temperature and rich in micro-nano bubbles.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a water heater control method for an intelligent linked washing machine. The water heater includes a controller, a heat exchange module, an inlet pipe, an outlet pipe, a first water supply pipe, a second water supply pipe, a micro-nano bubble generator, a first pressure relief device, a second pressure relief device, an inlet water flow sensor, and an outlet water flow sensor. The heat exchange module is connected to the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe, respectively. The outlet pipe is connected to the first water supply pipe and the second water supply pipe, respectively. The first water supply pipe is connected to the washing machine, and the second water supply pipe is connected to the bathing water outlet. The inlet water flow sensor is located in the inlet pipe, the micro-nano bubble generator is located in the outlet pipe, the first pressure relief device and the outlet water flow sensor are located in the first water supply pipe, the second pressure relief device is located in the second water supply pipe, and the controller is connected to the inlet water flow sensor, the outlet water flow sensor, and the micro-nano bubble generator. The method includes: The water usage mode is determined based on the signals from the inlet water flow sensor and the outlet water flow sensor. The water usage mode includes a laundry mode and a bathing mode. If the water usage mode is washing mode, the micro-nano bubble generator is controlled to start replenishing gas, and after the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing gas, the water heater is controlled to generate hot water based on a preset first target temperature. The hot water flows through the micro-nano bubble generator and the first pressure relief device and is then supplied to the washing machine.

[0006] Optionally, determining the water usage pattern based on the signals from the inlet water flow sensor and the outlet water flow sensor includes: If both the inlet water flow sensor and the outlet water flow sensor detect water flow signals, the water usage mode is determined to be the washing mode. If the inlet water flow sensor detects a water flow signal and the outlet water flow sensor does not detect a water flow signal, the water usage mode is determined to be the bathing mode.

[0007] Optionally, controlling the water heater to generate hot water based on a preset first target temperature includes: The preset time after the water heater is started is defined as the initial preheating stage. The initial preheating stage is divided into multiple consecutive time intervals. The hot water set temperature of the water heater in each time interval is gradually reduced in chronological order. After the initial preheating stage ends, the hot water set temperature of the water heater is set to the first target temperature. The hot water set temperature in each time interval is higher than the first target temperature.

[0008] Optionally, the method further includes: If the water usage mode is bathing mode, determine whether to activate the sparkling water mode based on the user's configuration information; If the bubble water mode is activated, the micro-nano bubble generator is controlled to start replenishing gas, and after the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing gas, the water heater is controlled to generate hot water based on a preset second target temperature. The hot water flows through the micro-nano bubble generator and the second pressure relief device and is then supplied to the bathing water end.

[0009] Optionally, the method further includes: If the bubble water mode is not activated, the water heater is controlled to generate hot water based on a preset second target temperature and supply it to the bathing water end.

[0010] Optionally, the method further includes: After the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing the gas, the total amount of hot water produced by the water heater is obtained. Determine whether the cumulative total exceeds a preset water volume threshold; If the cumulative total exceeds a preset water volume threshold, the micro-nano bubble generator is controlled to start replenishing gas, and after the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing gas, the cumulative total of hot water produced by the water heater is reset to 0.

[0011] Optionally, the micro / nano bubble generator includes a dissolved gas tank, an air pump, and a shut-off valve. The dissolved gas tank is located in the water outlet pipeline, and the shut-off valve is located in the water outlet pipeline between the dissolved gas tank and the heat exchange module. The air pump is connected to the dissolved gas tank. Controlling the micro / nano bubble generator to start replenishing air includes: Control the shut-off valve to close; The gas pump is started to inject gas into the dissolved gas tank; If the preset air replenishment completion condition is met, the air pump is turned off and the shut-off valve is opened.

[0012] Secondly, the present invention proposes an intelligent linkage system for a water heater and a washing machine, including a washing machine and a water heater. The water heater includes a controller, a heat exchange module, an inlet pipe, an outlet pipe, a first water supply pipe, a second water supply pipe, a micro-nano bubble generator, a first pressure relief device, a second pressure relief device, an inlet water flow sensor, and an outlet water flow sensor. The heat exchange module is connected to the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe respectively. The outlet pipe is connected to the first water supply pipe and the second water supply pipe respectively. The first water supply pipe is connected to the washing machine, and the second water supply pipe is connected to the bathing water end. The inlet water flow sensor is located in the inlet pipe. The micro-nano bubble generator is located in the outlet pipe. The first pressure relief device and the outlet water flow sensor are located in the first water supply pipe. The second pressure relief device is located in the second water supply pipe. The controller is connected to the inlet water flow sensor, the outlet water flow sensor, and the micro-nano bubble generator. The controller is used to execute the method described in the first aspect.

[0013] Optionally, the micro / nano bubble generator includes a dissolved gas tank, an air pump, and a shut-off valve. The dissolved gas tank is located in the water outlet pipeline, the shut-off valve is located in the water outlet pipeline and between the dissolved gas tank and the heat exchange module, and the air pump is connected to the dissolved gas tank.

[0014] Optionally, the micro / nano bubble generator further includes a one-way valve, which is located on the gas pipeline between the gas pump and the dissolved gas tank. The one-way valve is configured to allow gas to flow unidirectionally from the gas pump to the dissolved gas tank.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the technical effects achieved by the present invention include: This invention effectively solves the technical problem of existing water heaters' inability to automatically identify and continuously supply stable micro-nano bubble hot water to washing machines. By combining signals from inlet and outlet water flow sensors, automatic determination of the washing mode is achieved. Furthermore, after identifying the washing mode, the system first ensures the micro-nano bubble generator is in a state capable of efficiently generating bubbles, and then controls the water heater to produce hot water at the preset washing temperature. This hot water flows through the micro-nano bubble generator and its corresponding depressurization device, forming washing water with a constant temperature and rich in micro-nano bubbles. Thus, the washing machine obtains active hot water with a suitable temperature and stable bubble concentration from the start-up stage, significantly improving the cleaning efficiency and effect of the washing process, and realizing intelligent functional linkage and efficient resource utilization between the water heater and washing machine. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a smart linkage system between a water heater and a washing machine provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a water heater control method for an intelligent linked washing machine provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the temperature control curve of a water heater in washing mode, provided for an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure Labels Controller 1, Heat exchange module 2, Inlet water pipe 3, Outlet water pipe 4, First water supply pipe 5, Second water supply pipe 6, First pressure relief device 7, Second pressure relief device 8, Inlet water flow sensor 9, Outlet water flow sensor 10, Dissolved air tank 11, Air pump 12, Shut-off valve 13, Check valve 14, Washing machine 15, Water heater 16. Detailed Implementation

[0019] 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.

[0020] It should be understood that, when used in this specification and the appended claims, the terms "comprising" and "including" indicate the presence of the described features, integrals, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components and / or collections thereof.

[0021] It should also be understood that the terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0022] It should also be further understood that the term "and / or" as used in this specification and the appended claims refers to any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0023] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "if" may be interpreted, depending on the context, as "when," "once," "in response to determination," or "in response to detection." Similarly, the phrase "if determined" or "if [described condition or event] is detected" may be interpreted, depending on the context, as "once determined," "in response to determination," "once [described condition or event] is detected," or "in response to detection of [described condition or event]."

[0024] Please see Figure 1This invention proposes an intelligent linkage system for a water heater and a washing machine, including a washing machine 15 and a water heater 16. The water heater 16 includes a controller 1, a heat exchange module 2, an inlet pipe 3, an outlet pipe 4, a first water supply pipe 5, a second water supply pipe 6, a micro-nano bubble generator, a first pressure relief device 7, a second pressure relief device 8, an inlet water flow sensor 9, and an outlet water flow sensor 10. The heat exchange module 2 is connected to the inlet pipe 3 and the outlet pipe 4, respectively. The outlet pipe 4 is connected to the first water supply pipe 5 and the second water supply pipe 6, respectively. The first water supply pipe 5 is connected to the washing machine 16. The machine 15 is connected, the second water supply pipe 6 is connected to the bathing water end, the inlet water flow sensor 9 is located on the inlet water pipe 3, the micro-nano bubble generator is located on the outlet water pipe 4, the first pressure relief device 7 and the outlet water flow sensor 10 are located on the first water supply pipe 5, the second pressure relief device 8 is located on the second water supply pipe 6, the controller 1 is connected to the inlet water flow sensor 9, the outlet water flow sensor 10 and the micro-nano bubble generator, and the controller 1 is used to execute a water heater 16 control method for an intelligent linkage washing machine 15 proposed in this embodiment of the invention.

[0025] In practice, the intelligent linkage system between the water heater and the washing machine includes two main equipment entities, the washing machine 15 and the water heater 16, which are physically connected through pipelines.

[0026] The water heater 16 includes a controller 1, a heat exchange module 2, an inlet pipe 3, an outlet pipe 4, a first water supply pipe 5, a second water supply pipe 6, a micro-nano bubble generator, a first pressure relief device 7, a second pressure relief device 8, an inlet water flow sensor 9, and an outlet water flow sensor 10. The inlet of the heat exchange module 2 is connected to the inlet pipe 3 to introduce cold water; the outlet of the heat exchange module 2 is connected to the outlet pipe 4 to output heated hot water. The outlet pipe 4 serves as the main hot water distribution pipe, branching into two branches downstream: the first water supply pipe 5 and the second water supply pipe 6.

[0027] Furthermore, one end of the first water supply pipe 5 is connected to the outlet pipe 4, and the other end is connected to the water inlet of the washing machine 15, specifically for supplying hot water to the washing machine 15. A first pressure relief device 7 and an outlet water flow sensor 10 are installed in series on the first water supply pipe 5. The first pressure relief device 7 is used to generate a pressure drop to produce micro / nano bubbles, and the outlet water flow sensor 10 is used to monitor the water flow to the washing machine 15.

[0028] Furthermore, one end of the second water supply pipe 6 is connected to the outlet pipe 4, and the other end is connected to the bathing water supply end (such as a shower mixing valve) to supply hot water to the bathing facilities. A second pressure relief device 8 is installed in series on the second water supply pipe 6.

[0029] Furthermore, the inlet pipe 3 is connected to the household cold water main pipe, and an inlet water flow sensor 9 is installed on it to monitor the total cold water flow entering the water heater 16.

[0030] Furthermore, the micro-nano bubble generator is installed in series on the water outlet pipe 4, located downstream of the heat exchange module 2 and upstream of the first water supply pipe 5 and the second water supply pipe 6, to process all the hot water that will be output.

[0031] Furthermore, the controller 1 is the brain of the water heater 16. It establishes communication connections with the inlet water flow sensor 9 and the outlet water flow sensor 10 to receive flow signals, establishes a control connection with the micro-nano bubble generator to send commands such as gas replenishment, and connects with the combustion control system and temperature sensors of the water heater 16 to achieve temperature control. The controller 1 is configured to execute the water heater 16 control method of the intelligent linkage washing machine 15 proposed in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0032] Furthermore, in some preferred embodiments, the micro / nano bubble generating device includes a dissolved gas tank 11, an air pump 12, and a shut-off valve 13. The dissolved gas tank 11 is located in the water outlet pipe 4, the shut-off valve 13 is located in the water outlet pipe 4 and between the dissolved gas tank 11 and the heat exchange module 2, and the air pump 12 is connected to the dissolved gas tank 11.

[0033] In practice, the micro-nano bubble generating device includes a dissolved gas tank 11, a gas pump 12, and a shut-off valve 13.

[0034] The dissolved air tank 11 is a hollow pressure vessel whose main body is connected in series in the outlet pipe 4 of the water heater 16. That is to say, a section of the outlet pipe 4 is replaced by the dissolved air tank 11, and all the hot water flowing out of the heat exchange module 2 must flow through the internal space of the dissolved air tank 11.

[0035] Furthermore, the shut-off valve 13 is an electrically controlled valve, such as a solenoid valve. It is installed on the outlet pipe 4, and its installation position has specific requirements: it must be located between the dissolved air tank 11 and the upstream heat exchange module 2. In other words, along the water flow direction, the sequence is heat exchange module 2, shut-off valve 13, and dissolved air tank 11. The shut-off valve 13 is used to control the flow of water to and from the dissolved air tank 11.

[0036] Furthermore, the air pump 12 is a gas pressurization device, such as a small air compressor or diaphragm pump. The air pump 12 is not installed on a water line, but is connected to the dissolved gas tank 11 via a separate gas pipeline. The outlet of this gas pipeline connects to a dedicated air inlet on the top or side wall of the dissolved gas tank 11. When the air pump 12 is operating, it pumps ambient air or other gas sources into the dissolved gas tank 11 through this gas pipeline.

[0037] Furthermore, in some preferred embodiments, the micro / nano bubble generator further includes a one-way valve 14, which is located on the gas pipeline between the gas pump 12 and the dissolved gas tank 11. The one-way valve 14 is configured to allow gas to flow unidirectionally from the gas pump 12 to the dissolved gas tank 11.

[0038] In a specific implementation, an additional one-way valve 14 is added to the micro-nano bubble generator, which includes a dissolved gas tank 11, a gas pump 12, and a shut-off valve 13.

[0039] The one-way valve 14 is installed on the gas pipeline between the gas pump 12 and the dissolved gas tank 11. Specifically, this one-way valve 14 is connected in series in the gas pipeline along the direction of gas flow from the gas pump 12 to the dissolved gas tank 11. The one-way valve 14 is a valve that allows fluid (in this case, gas) to flow in only one direction and prevents it from flowing in the opposite direction. Internally, it typically relies on spring force and gas pressure difference to control the opening and closing of the valve core.

[0040] In this embodiment of the invention, the one-way valve 14 is configured to allow flow from the air pump 12 towards the dissolved gas tank 11. That is, when the air pump 12 starts and the outlet pressure of the air pump 12 is higher than the pressure inside the dissolved gas tank 11, gas can push open the valve core of the one-way valve 14 and flow smoothly into the dissolved gas tank 11. However, when the air pump 12 stops working, or under certain abnormal conditions, when the pressure inside the dissolved gas tank 11 is higher than the outlet pressure of the air pump 12 (e.g., hot water backflow or pressure fluctuation), the valve core of the one-way valve 14 will close under the action of pressure difference or spring, strictly preventing gas or liquid from flowing back from the dissolved gas tank 11 to the air pump 12.

[0041] Furthermore, both the first pressure relief device 7 and the second pressure relief device 8 can be Venturi pressure relief devices, that is, devices that generate pressure drop through the Venturi effect to release micro-nano bubbles.

[0042] Further, please refer to Figure 2 This invention provides a water heater control method for an intelligent linked washing machine, the method comprising the following steps: S1, the water usage mode is determined based on the signals from the inlet water flow sensor and the outlet water flow sensor. The water usage mode includes a laundry mode and a bathing mode.

[0043] In practice, the controller continuously or periodically reads signals from the inlet and outlet water flow sensors. Based on the combined state of these two signals, the controller performs logical judgments to determine the current water usage mode. Water usage modes include laundry mode and shower mode.

[0044] For example, in some preferred embodiments, determining the water usage mode based on the signals from the inlet water flow sensor and the outlet water flow sensor includes: if both the inlet water flow sensor and the outlet water flow sensor detect water flow signals, determining the water usage mode as a laundry mode; if the inlet water flow sensor detects a water flow signal and the outlet water flow sensor does not detect a water flow signal, determining the water usage mode as a bathing mode.

[0045] In practice, the inlet water flow sensor detects the water flow status in the inlet pipe in real time and sends a signal indicating whether water is flowing through it to the controller. This signal may be a high level, a low level, or a specific digital pulse sequence. Similarly, the outlet water flow sensor detects the water flow status in the first water supply pipe in real time and sends the corresponding signal to the controller.

[0046] The controller's decision logic is implemented as follows: The controller synchronously analyzes signals from two sensors. If the controller detects a signal from the inlet water flow sensor indicating water flow, and simultaneously detects a signal from the outlet water flow sensor also indicating water flow (meaning both signals are valid and indicate water flow), then the controller executes the first decision logic, determining the current water usage mode as washing mode. This signal combination corresponds to the scenario where water is entering the water heater and hot water is flowing to the washing machine through the first water supply pipe.

[0047] Furthermore, if the controller detects a signal from the inlet water flow sensor indicating water flow, while simultaneously detecting a signal from the outlet water flow sensor indicating no water flow (i.e., only the inlet signal is valid while the outlet signal is invalid), the controller executes the second determination logic, classifying the current water usage mode as bathing mode. This signal combination corresponds to a scenario where water is entering the water heater, but hot water flows to the bathing end through the second water supply pipe, while no water flows through the first water supply pipe (connected to the washing machine).

[0048] Furthermore, if the controller detects a signal from both the inlet and outlet water flow sensors indicating no water flow, it signifies that the water heater is not operating. This typically occurs when the user has not activated any water outlets, the water heater's inlet valve is closed, or the main water supply to the household has been shut off.

[0049] S2, if the water usage mode is washing mode, control the micro-nano bubble generator to start replenishing gas, and after the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing gas, control the water heater to generate hot water based on a preset first target temperature, wherein the hot water flows through the micro-nano bubble generator and the first pressure relief device and is then supplied to the washing machine.

[0050] In practice, when the controller determines the water usage mode to be washing mode, it executes a series of sequential operations. First, the controller sends a command to the micro-nano bubble generator to initiate the gas replenishment process. This process aims to restore the dissolved gas medium within the micro-nano bubble generator to a saturated state sufficient for effective micro-nano bubble generation. The controller monitors the completion of the gas replenishment process. After confirming that the micro-nano bubble generator has finished replenishing gas, the controller immediately starts the water heater. Specifically, the controller sets the target heating temperature of the heat exchange module to a preset first target temperature and controls the gas proportional valve, burner, and other components to work together to heat the cold water flowing through the heat exchange module to this first target temperature. The generated hot water then flows through the ready-to-use micro-nano bubble generator, dissolving gas in the process. Subsequently, the gas-dissolved hot water flows through the first pressure relief device on the first water supply pipe. At the first pressure relief device, the pressure drops sharply, causing the dissolved gas in the water to be released in the form of a large number of micro-nano bubbles, thus forming hot water rich in micro-nano bubbles, which is ultimately supplied to the connected washing machine for washing clothes.

[0051] It should be noted that the first target temperature can be set by the user or based on the type of clothing, and this invention does not specifically limit it. For example, the suitable temperature for polyester fiber is between 30 and 40°C, while for materials such as bath towels, cotton and linen, and baby cotton clothing, it can be set to 40 to 60°C.

[0052] This invention provides a hardware foundation for generating micro-nano bubble hot water in a washing machine by integrating a micro-nano bubble generator into the water outlet of a water heater with a first pressure relief device dedicated to the washing water supply branch. Upon entering the washing mode, the method prioritizes ensuring the efficiency of the micro-nano bubble generator by initiating a gas replenishment operation first, ensuring the device is in optimal working condition before heating begins, thus avoiding unstable bubble water concentration due to insufficient dissolved air. Furthermore, after confirming gas replenishment completion, heating is initiated and hot water is output, ensuring that from the beginning of the washing cycle, the washing machine receives micro-nano bubble hot water with a stable concentration and a temperature matching the preset first target temperature. This sequential control logic further ensures the coordination and reliability of the bubble water generation system and the hot water supply system in the washing mode, allowing the physicochemical properties of micro-nano bubbles, such as their large specific surface area, negative surface charge, and ability to generate hydroxyl radicals, to continuously act on the clothes from the initial washing stage, aiming to improve overall washing performance by enhancing cleanliness, sterilization, and reducing detergent residue.

[0053] In some preferred embodiments, controlling the water heater to generate hot water based on a preset first target temperature includes: determining a preset time after the water heater is started as an initial preheating stage; dividing the initial preheating stage into multiple consecutive time intervals; gradually reducing the set hot water temperature of the water heater in each time interval in chronological order; and setting the set hot water temperature of the water heater to the first target temperature after the initial preheating stage ends, wherein the set hot water temperature in each time interval is higher than the first target temperature.

[0054] In practice, after the controller determines that the washing mode is active and completes the relevant initial operations (such as gas replenishment), the hot water output stage begins. The controller defines a preset time period after the water heater starts as the initial preheating stage. This preset time period can be pre-set based on factors such as the average pipe length from the water heater to the washing machine and the ambient temperature, for example, 15 seconds.

[0055] The controller further divides this initial preheating phase into multiple consecutive and sequentially arranged time intervals. For example, the 15-second initial preheating phase can be divided into three consecutive 5-second intervals, or consecutive 4-second, 5-second, and 6-second intervals. The controller sets a corresponding hot water setpoint temperature for each time interval. These temperatures are arranged chronologically, showing a gradually decreasing trend. Specifically, the hot water setpoint temperature is highest in the first time interval, followed by the second time interval, and then the third time interval, but the hot water setpoint temperature in all time intervals is higher than the first target temperature (e.g., 35°C) to be stabilized.

[0056] For example, see Figure 3 , Figure 3 An exemplary temperature control curve is shown in washing mode, wherein the hot water set temperatures are 43°C, 40°C, and 38°C in sequence, and the first target temperature is 35°C.

[0057] Furthermore, during the initial preheating phase, the controller directs the water heater's combustion system to reach and maintain the set hot water temperature corresponding to the current time interval. When the first time interval ends, the controller automatically switches the target temperature to the set hot water temperature for the second time interval, and so on. This phased temperature setting method aims to utilize the higher heating power in the initial stage to quickly offset heat loss caused by the water heater's internal thermal inertia, heating delay, and cold water remaining in the pipes.

[0058] Once the initial preheating phase ends, i.e., the last time interval is completed, the controller sets the water heater's hot water temperature to the final target temperature. Afterward, the controller enters the thermostatic control phase, using feedback adjustment to stably maintain the outlet water temperature near the target temperature, providing the washing machine with a consistently stable and suitable temperature of hot water.

[0059] This embodiment addresses the technical challenge of obtaining stable hot water at the initial startup of a washing machine by providing a dynamic preheating control method. At the start of the washing cycle, due to the delay in heating the water heater and the presence of cold water in the connecting pipes, directly setting a lower target washing temperature would result in the washing machine receiving insufficient hot water initially, affecting detergent dissolution and initial cleaning effectiveness. This invention employs a time-segmented, step-by-step temperature reduction strategy during the preset initial preheating phase, consistently maintaining a temperature higher than the final target temperature. Essentially, this injects a controllable, excessive heat compensation into the system. The initially higher set temperature forces the combustion system to operate at a higher load, rapidly increasing the water temperature to displace the cold water in the pipes and heat the system in the shortest possible time. Furthermore, as time progresses, the set temperature is gradually reduced, smoothly transitioning to the target temperature and avoiding temperature overshoot. This method can effectively reduce the waiting time for the washing machine to obtain hot water at an effective temperature, allowing the washing machine to receive hot water close to or reaching the preset first target temperature from an earlier stage of the water intake cycle. This helps to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the entire washing process, while avoiding energy waste or potential heat damage to clothes that may result from continuous high-temperature operation.

[0060] In some preferred embodiments, the method further includes: if the water usage mode is a bathing mode, determining whether to activate the bubble water mode based on the user's configuration information; if the bubble water mode is activated, controlling the micro-nano bubble generator to start replenishing gas, and after the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing gas, controlling the water heater to generate hot water based on a preset second target temperature, wherein the hot water flows through the micro-nano bubble generator and the second pressure relief device and is supplied to the bathing water end.

[0061] In practice, after the controller determines that the current water usage mode is bathing mode based on the water flow sensor signal, it will not immediately execute the same forced bubble water supply logic as in laundry mode. The controller first determines whether to activate the bubble water mode during the current bath based on the user's configuration information. The user's configuration information can come from various sources, such as pre-setting or real-time selection of whether to enable the bubble water function during bathing via buttons or touchscreen on the water heater itself, the accompanying remote control, or a connected smart home terminal application. This configuration information is stored in the controller's memory or obtained in real-time through the communication interface; this invention does not specifically limit the specific implementation.

[0062] Further, the controller reads the configuration information and makes a judgment. If the configuration information indicates that the bubble water mode should be activated, the controller then executes a series of operations similar to the washing mode but with a different output path. The controller first controls the micro-nano bubble generator to start the gas replenishment process to ensure its efficiency. After the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing the gas, the controller controls the water heater to start working, sets the target heating temperature of the heat exchange module to a preset second target temperature (e.g., 41°C), and controls the combustion system to produce hot water at the corresponding temperature. This hot water flows through the micro-nano bubble generator to dissolve the gas, then enters the second water supply pipeline and passes through the second pressure relief device. Pressure is released at the second pressure relief device, generating hot water rich in micro-nano bubbles, which is ultimately supplied to the showerhead, bathtub, and other bathing water outlets for user use, aiming to enhance the cleaning, comfort, and skincare experience of bathing using micro-nano bubbles.

[0063] It should be noted that the second target temperature can be set by the user, for example, 41°C, and this invention does not specifically limit it.

[0064] In some preferred embodiments, the method further includes: if the bubble water mode is not activated, controlling the water heater to generate hot water based on a preset second target temperature and supplying it to the bathing water end.

[0065] In practice, when the controller determines that the water usage mode is the bathing mode and determines whether to start the sparkling water mode based on the user's configuration information, if the determination result is not to start the sparkling water mode, the controller executes a simplified control path.

[0066] In this scenario, the controller bypasses any control operations on the micro / nano bubble generator, neither initiating gas replenishment nor relying on it to generate bubble water. The controller directly controls the water heater's operation, setting the target heating temperature of the heat exchange module to a preset second target temperature. This second target temperature can be a default value specifically set for bathing comfort (such as 41°C), or it can be another temperature value set by the user.

[0067] The controller operates the combustion system, heating the cold water flowing through the heat exchange module to the set second target temperature. Since the micro-nano bubble generator is not activated, the water supplied to the showerhead (e.g., the shower head) is ordinary constant-temperature hot water, without the specially generated micro-nano bubbles. This method provides the most basic hot water supply for showering.

[0068] In some preferred embodiments, the method further includes: after the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing gas, obtaining the cumulative total amount of hot water produced by the water heater; determining whether the cumulative total amount is greater than a preset water volume threshold; if the cumulative total amount is greater than the preset water volume threshold, controlling the micro-nano bubble generator to start replenishing gas, and after the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing gas, resetting the cumulative total amount of hot water produced by the water heater to 0.

[0069] In practice, a logic for continuous monitoring and maintenance of the micro-nano bubble generator's operating status has been added, applicable to both laundry mode and bathing mode with bubble water mode enabled.

[0070] After one gas replenishment cycle of the micro-nano bubble generator ends and the water heater begins supplying bubbled water, the controller continuously executes the logic for accumulating and judging the bubbled water supply. The controller obtains the cumulative total amount of hot water produced by the water heater. The calculation of the cumulative total can be based on the signals from the inlet water flow sensor or the outlet water flow sensor. For example, the controller counts the pulses emitted by the outlet water flow sensor, with each pulse representing a fixed volume (e.g., 0.1 liters), and the cumulative number of pulses can be converted into the total volume of hot water flowing out. This cumulative total is re-accumulated from zero after each gas replenishment cycle, or it can continue to accumulate after the last gas replenishment is completed.

[0071] Furthermore, the controller internally stores a preset water volume threshold (AL). This water volume threshold is related to the capacity of the dissolved gas tank in the micro / nano bubble generator, the gas solubility, and the minimum bubble concentration that is expected to be maintained; for example, it can be set to 20 liters, 50 liters, or 100 liters.

[0072] Furthermore, the controller continuously or periodically determines whether the current cumulative total is greater than the preset water volume threshold. If the determination result is that the cumulative total is not greater than (i.e., less than or equal to) the water volume threshold, the controller continues to control the water heater to supply aerated water normally and continues to accumulate.

[0073] Furthermore, if the cumulative total exceeds the preset water volume threshold, this indicates that the amount of bubble-filled water supplied since the last gas replenishment may have caused the dissolved gas concentration in the dissolved gas tank to drop to near the critical point affecting the micro-nano bubble generation effect. In this case, the controller needs to initiate a maintenance process. The controller first controls the micro-nano bubble generator to start a new round of gas replenishment. After the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing gas, the controller performs a reset operation, resetting the currently recorded cumulative total of hot water produced by the water heater to 0. Afterward, the system continues to supply bubble-filled water and begins a new round of accumulation. This process is repeated cyclically to ensure that throughout the entire water usage process, regardless of the duration, the concentration of micro-nano bubbles in the supplied bubble-filled water remains within a relatively stable and effective range.

[0074] This embodiment provides a quantitative mechanism for maintaining the micro / nano bubble effect based on actual water usage. The dissolved gas capacity of the dissolved gas medium in a micro / nano bubble generator is limited. As bubble water is continuously output, dissolved gas is consumed, potentially causing changes in the concentration and size of subsequently produced bubbles, affecting the sustainability of cleaning and sterilization effects. This invention accurately predicts the degree of dissolved gas consumption by accumulating the total amount of hot water supplied and comparing it to a scientifically set water volume threshold. When the accumulated water volume exceeds the threshold, the system automatically triggers a gas replenishment operation to restore it to a highly efficient working state. After gas replenishment is completed, the accumulated total is reset to zero, marking the start of a new effective supply cycle. This mechanism replaces fixed-time gas replenishment or blind, frequent gas replenishment, achieving on-demand maintenance. It ensures that the bubble water effect does not significantly diminish due to insufficient dissolved gas in the latter half of any single long-duration laundry or bathing session, while avoiding unnecessary gas replenishment operations during short-duration, low-volume water usage.

[0075] In some preferred embodiments, the micro / nano bubble generator includes a dissolved gas tank, an air pump, and a shut-off valve. The dissolved gas tank is located in the water outlet pipeline, and the shut-off valve is located in the water outlet pipeline between the dissolved gas tank and the heat exchange module. The air pump is connected to the dissolved gas tank. Controlling the micro / nano bubble generator to start gas replenishment includes: controlling the shut-off valve to close; controlling the air pump to start and inject gas into the dissolved gas tank; and if a preset gas replenishment completion condition is detected, turning off the air pump and opening the shut-off valve.

[0076] In practice, the micro / nano bubble generator includes a dissolved air tank, an air pump, and a shut-off valve. The dissolved air tank is a pressure-resistant container connected in series with the water outlet pipe of the water heater, through which hot water flows. The shut-off valve is installed on the water outlet pipe, located between the dissolved air tank and the upstream heat exchange module. The shut-off valve is typically an electrically controlled valve, such as a solenoid valve, used to control the flow of water through the dissolved air tank. The air pump is connected to the dissolved air tank via a gas pipeline and is used to pump air or other gases into the dissolved air tank.

[0077] When the controller needs to activate the micro / nano bubble generator to replenish gas, it performs the following sequential steps: First, the shut-off valve is closed. The controller sends a closing command to the shut-off valve, which actuates, blocking the continued flow of hot water from the heat exchange module into the dissolved air tank and preventing water in the dissolved air tank from flowing downstream. At this time, the dissolved air tank is in a water circuit isolation state.

[0078] Next, the controller starts the air pump. The controller sends a start command to the air pump, and the air pump begins to work, injecting gas into the sealed dissolved gas tank through the gas pipeline. As gas is pumped in, the pressure inside the dissolved gas tank gradually increases, forcing the existing water in the tank to dissolve more gas until it reaches or approaches saturation at that pressure.

[0079] Further, the gas replenishment completion conditions are detected and restored. After a period of time, the controller continuously or waits to check whether the preset gas replenishment completion conditions are met. This condition can be reaching a preset gas replenishment time (time condition), or it can be detected by a pressure sensor that the pressure inside the dissolved gas tank has reached a preset value (pressure condition). This invention is not specifically limited in this regard. Once the gas replenishment completion conditions are detected, the controller determines that the gas replenishment is complete, and then issues two commands in sequence: first, shut down the air pump to stop injecting gas; second, open the shut-off valve to restore the connection between the dissolved gas tank and the main water circuit. At this point, the gas replenishment process is complete, the dissolved gas tank is reconnected to the water circuit and is in a high-pressure saturation state, ready to generate micro-nano bubbles through the downstream pressure relief device when subsequent water flows through.

[0080] Furthermore, during the period when the shut-off valve is closed, the water heater burner will stop working because there is no water flow signal. Once the shut-off valve is opened and the water flow signal is restored, the water heater burner will restart.

[0081] This embodiment clarifies the core structure of the micro / nano bubble generator and the specific execution logic of the gas replenishment process. By setting a shut-off valve and closing it during gas replenishment, physical isolation is achieved between the dissolved gas tank and the main hot water flow path. This isolation is crucial, ensuring that when the air pump pressurizes and injects gas into the dissolved gas tank, the high-pressure gas is effectively confined within the tank for the dissolution process, preventing backflow or affecting the normal operating pressure of other parts of the water heater, and also preventing uncontrolled outflow of hot water during gas replenishment. After gas replenishment is completed, the sequence of stopping the air pump first and then opening the shut-off valve avoids the instantaneous escape of high-pressure gas through the opened water path, ensuring that the high-pressure saturation state established in the dissolved gas tank is maintained, and storing sufficient potential energy for the subsequent generation of high-concentration micro / nano bubbles. This structural design and step-by-step control method allow the processes of gas dissolution and bubble generation to be carried out efficiently and in a controlled cycle.

[0082] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts that are not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0083] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Since these modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims and their equivalents, this invention also intends to include these modifications and variations.

[0084] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can easily conceive of various equivalent modifications or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention, and these modifications or substitutions should all be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A water heater control method for an intelligent linked washing machine, characterized in that, The water heater includes a controller, a heat exchange module, an inlet pipe, an outlet pipe, a first water supply pipe, a second water supply pipe, a micro-nano bubble generator, a first pressure relief device, a second pressure relief device, an inlet water flow sensor, and an outlet water flow sensor. The heat exchange module is connected to both the inlet and outlet pipes. The outlet pipe is connected to both the first and second water supply pipes. The first water supply pipe is connected to a washing machine, and the second water supply pipe is connected to a shower / bathing water outlet. The inlet water flow sensor is located in the inlet pipe. The micro-nano bubble generator is located in the outlet pipe. The first pressure relief device and the outlet water flow sensor are located in the first water supply pipe, and the second pressure relief device is located in the second water supply pipe. The controller is connected to the inlet water flow sensor, the outlet water flow sensor, and the micro-nano bubble generator. The method includes: The water usage mode is determined based on the signals from the inlet water flow sensor and the outlet water flow sensor. The water usage mode includes a laundry mode and a bathing mode. If the water usage mode is washing mode, the micro-nano bubble generator is controlled to start replenishing gas, and after the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing gas, the water heater is controlled to generate hot water based on a preset first target temperature. The hot water flows through the micro-nano bubble generator and the first pressure relief device and is then supplied to the washing machine.

2. The water heater control method for an intelligent linked washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The determination of the water usage pattern based on the signals from the inlet water flow sensor and the outlet water flow sensor includes: If both the inlet water flow sensor and the outlet water flow sensor detect water flow signals, the water usage mode is determined to be the washing mode. If the inlet water flow sensor detects a water flow signal and the outlet water flow sensor does not detect a water flow signal, the water usage mode is determined to be the bathing mode.

3. The water heater control method for an intelligent linked washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control of the water heater to generate hot water based on a preset first target temperature includes: The preset time after the water heater is started is defined as the initial preheating stage. The initial preheating stage is divided into multiple consecutive time intervals. The hot water set temperature of the water heater in each time interval is gradually reduced in chronological order. After the initial preheating stage ends, the hot water set temperature of the water heater is set to the first target temperature. The hot water set temperature in each time interval is higher than the first target temperature.

4. The water heater control method for an intelligent linked washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the water usage mode is bathing mode, determine whether to activate the sparkling water mode based on the user's configuration information; If the bubble water mode is activated, the micro-nano bubble generator is controlled to start replenishing gas, and after the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing gas, the water heater is controlled to generate hot water based on a preset second target temperature. The hot water flows through the micro-nano bubble generator and the second pressure relief device and is then supplied to the bathing water end.

5. The water heater control method for an intelligent linked washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the bubble water mode is not activated, the water heater is controlled to generate hot water based on a preset second target temperature and supply it to the bathing water end.

6. The water heater control method for an intelligent linked washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: After the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing the gas, the total amount of hot water produced by the water heater is obtained. Determine whether the cumulative total exceeds a preset water volume threshold; If the cumulative total exceeds a preset water volume threshold, the micro-nano bubble generator is controlled to start replenishing gas, and after the micro-nano bubble generator finishes replenishing gas, the cumulative total of hot water produced by the water heater is reset to 0.

7. The water heater control method for an intelligent linked washing machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The micro / nano bubble generator includes a dissolved gas tank, an air pump, and a shut-off valve. The dissolved gas tank is located in the water outlet pipeline, and the shut-off valve is located in the water outlet pipeline between the dissolved gas tank and the heat exchange module. The air pump is connected to the dissolved gas tank. Controlling the micro / nano bubble generator to start replenishing gas includes: Control the shut-off valve to close; The gas pump is started to inject gas into the dissolved gas tank; If the preset air replenishment completion condition is met, the air pump is turned off and the shut-off valve is opened.

8. A smart linkage system for a water heater and a washing machine, characterized in that, The device includes a washing machine and a water heater. The water heater includes a controller, a heat exchange module, an inlet pipe, an outlet pipe, a first water supply pipe, a second water supply pipe, a micro-nano bubble generator, a first pressure relief device, a second pressure relief device, an inlet water flow sensor, and an outlet water flow sensor. The heat exchange module is connected to the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe respectively. The outlet pipe is connected to the first water supply pipe and the second water supply pipe respectively. The first water supply pipe is connected to the washing machine, and the second water supply pipe is connected to the bathing water end. The inlet water flow sensor is located in the inlet pipe. The micro-nano bubble generator is located in the outlet pipe. The first pressure relief device and the outlet water flow sensor are located in the first water supply pipe. The second pressure relief device is located in the second water supply pipe. The controller is connected to the inlet water flow sensor, the outlet water flow sensor, and the micro-nano bubble generator. The controller is used to execute the method as described in any one of claims 1-7.

9. The intelligent linkage system for water heater and washing machine according to claim 8, characterized in that, The micro-nano bubble generator includes a dissolved gas tank, an air pump, and a shut-off valve. The dissolved gas tank is located in the water outlet pipeline, the shut-off valve is located in the water outlet pipeline and between the dissolved gas tank and the heat exchange module, and the air pump is connected to the dissolved gas tank.

10. The intelligent linkage system for water heater and washing machine according to claim 9, characterized in that, The micro-nano bubble generator also includes a one-way valve, which is located on the gas pipeline between the gas pump and the dissolved gas tank. The one-way valve is configured to allow gas to flow unidirectionally from the gas pump to the dissolved gas tank.

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