Pressure-bearing hot water storage device, control method and water purifier
By using dual-sensor temperature difference judgment and dual hardware protection in pressurized hot water storage devices, the safety hazards caused by temperature sensor failure are solved, and a stable supply and safe control of high-temperature water are achieved.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ZHIJING XINGYAO WATER PURIFICATION EQUIPMENT (SUZHOU) CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2026-06-01
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-14
AI Technical Summary
In pressurized hot water storage devices, a malfunctioning temperature sensor can cause the water temperature to deviate from the actual value, potentially leading to overpressure explosions or failure to heat properly.
Two temperature sensors are used to detect the water temperature at different locations, and the temperature difference is compared in real time through the control unit. Over-temperature protection elements and pressure relief valves form dual hardware protection to ensure the safe shutdown and pressure relief of the heating components.
Effective identification of sensor malfunctions prevents accidental heating or shutdown, improving the safety and reliability of the device and ensuring a stable supply of high-temperature water.
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Figure CN122384291A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of water purifiers, and in particular to a pressurized hot water storage device, control method and water purifier. Background Technology
[0002] Pressurized hot water storage devices, such as water purifier tanks, are widely used in homes and commercial settings because they provide a continuous and stable supply of high-temperature hot water. To achieve precise temperature control and ensure safe use, these devices generally rely on temperature sensors to monitor the water temperature inside the tank, and an electronic control unit controls the heating element to start and stop based on the sensor signals.
[0003] However, in practical applications, temperature sensors, as critical electronic components, are prone to failure. Common failure modes include resistance drift due to aging, scale corrosion, or electrical interference, as well as open / short circuit failure due to broken or short-circuited wiring. Once a sensor malfunctions, its output temperature signal will deviate significantly from the actual water temperature, potentially leading to two dangerous situations: first, if the sensor reading is too low, the control unit will continue heating, causing the water temperature to become too high, leading to overpressure or even an explosion risk; second, if the sensor reading is too high, the device will fail to heat properly, affecting the user experience.
[0004] The information disclosed in this background section is intended only to enhance the understanding of the overall background of this application and should not be construed as an admission or in any way implying that the information constitutes prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention
[0005] In view of this, this application provides a pressurized hot water storage device, a control method, and a water purifier to solve at least one problem existing in the prior art.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of this application is implemented as follows:
[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a pressurized hot water storage device, comprising:
[0008] Sealed tank;
[0009] A heating component, located inside the sealed tank, is used to heat the water inside the tank;
[0010] The temperature detection assembly includes two temperature sensors arranged at different locations within the sealed container.
[0011] The control unit is electrically connected to the heating component and is used to control the start and stop of the heating component according to the detection signals of the two temperature sensors. When the difference between the detection values of the two temperature sensors is greater than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, an alarm signal is issued and the heating component is controlled to stop heating.
[0012] An independent protection component includes an over-temperature protection element electrically connected to the control unit and a pressure relief valve installed on the top of the sealed tank. The over-temperature protection element is configured to send a signal to the control unit to control the heating component to stop heating when the water temperature reaches a first over-temperature threshold. The pressure relief valve is configured to automatically open to release pressure when the pressure inside the sealed tank reaches a preset pressure threshold.
[0013] In an alternative embodiment, the two temperature sensors are respectively arranged in the middle and bottom of the sealed container.
[0014] In one alternative embodiment, the two temperature sensors and the over-temperature protection element are arranged in layers along the height direction inside the sealed tank, wherein one temperature sensor is located in the middle of the tank, the other temperature sensor is located at the bottom of the tank, and the over-temperature protection element is located at the top of the tank.
[0015] In one optional embodiment, the circuit connection of the over-temperature protection element is independent of the signal acquisition circuit of the two temperature sensors, and the signal it sends to the control unit is a switching signal.
[0016] In one optional embodiment, the over-temperature protection element is a bimetallic strip thermostat with an operating temperature of 112℃±2℃, and its contacts are connected in series in the power supply circuit of the heating component to achieve physical power cut-off.
[0017] In one optional embodiment, the opening pressure of the pressure relief valve is set to the pressure generated by saturated steam at a water temperature of 112°C.
[0018] In one alternative embodiment, the outer wall of the sealed tank is provided with an insulation layer, the thickness of which is configured such that the time required for the water temperature inside the tank to drop from 108°C to 100°C after the heating components stop working is not less than 30 minutes.
[0019] In an optional embodiment, a remote communication module connected to the control unit is also included. The control unit is configured to send alarm information to the user's mobile terminal via the remote communication module when a sensor failure or over-temperature event occurs.
[0020] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a control method for any of the pressurized hot water storage devices described above, comprising:
[0021] The water temperature inside the sealed tank is obtained by using two temperature sensors located at different positions within the sealed tank.
[0022] The detection values of the two temperature sensors are compared. When the difference between the two values is greater than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, an alarm signal is issued and the heating component is controlled to stop heating.
[0023] The over-temperature protection element monitors the water temperature, and when the water temperature reaches the first over-temperature threshold, it controls the heating component to stop heating.
[0024] When the pressure inside the sealed tank reaches a preset pressure threshold, mechanical pressure is released through a pressure relief valve.
[0025] In an alternative implementation, the method further includes:
[0026] When both temperature sensors detect that the water temperature has reached the temperature control threshold, the heating component is controlled to stop heating.
[0027] In an alternative implementation, the method further includes:
[0028] The heating component is controlled to start or stop only when both temperature sensors are effective and the difference between their detected values is less than the preset temperature difference threshold. If either sensor fails or the temperature difference between the two sensors exceeds the limit, heating is stopped and an alarm is triggered.
[0029] In an alternative implementation, the method further includes:
[0030] Before starting heating, the initial readings of the two temperature sensors are obtained and their difference is calculated. If the initial difference is greater than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold, heating is prohibited and a sensor fault alarm is issued.
[0031] In one alternative embodiment, before comparing the detection values of the two temperature sensors, the detection signals of the two temperature sensors are further filtered to eliminate signal interference.
[0032] In one optional embodiment, the preset temperature difference threshold is dynamically adjusted according to the average water temperature inside the sealed tank; when the average water temperature is below 80°C, the preset temperature difference threshold is 8°C; when the average water temperature is above or equal to 80°C, the preset temperature difference threshold is 5°C.
[0033] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a water purifier, including any of the pressurized hot water storage devices described above.
[0034] The pressurized hot water storage device, control method, and water purifier provided in this application include: a sealed tank; a heating component disposed within the sealed tank for heating the water inside the tank; a temperature detection component including two temperature sensors arranged at different positions within the sealed tank; a control unit electrically connected to the heating component for controlling the start and stop of the heating component based on the detection signals from the two temperature sensors, and issuing an alarm signal and controlling the heating component to stop heating when the difference between the detection values of the two temperature sensors is greater than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold; and an independent protection component including an over-temperature protection element electrically connected to the control unit and a pressure relief valve installed on the top of the sealed tank. The over-temperature protection element is configured to send a signal to the control unit to control the heating component to stop heating when the water temperature reaches a first over-temperature threshold, and the pressure relief valve is configured to automatically open to release pressure when the internal pressure of the sealed tank reaches a preset pressure threshold. As can be seen, the pressurized hot water storage device, control method, and water purifier of this application effectively avoid false heating or false shutdown caused by the failure of a single sensor by installing two temperature sensors located at different positions in the pressurized hot water storage device and comparing their detection values in real time by the control unit. When the temperature difference exceeds a preset threshold, it is determined that the sensor is faulty and the system will shut down and alarm. At the same time, the over-temperature protection element independent of the temperature sensor and the mechanical pressure relief valve constitute dual hardware protection, which can still reliably cut off heating or release pressure when the electronic control system fails. The above structures work together to improve the device's ability to identify sensor faults and enhance the overall safety and reliability of operation.
[0035] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description
[0036] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of this application and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments and are used to explain this application, but do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings:
[0037] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a pressurized hot water storage device provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0038] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating the control method for a pressurized hot water storage device provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0039] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:
[0040] 10. Sealed tank; 20. Heating assembly; 30. Temperature detection assembly; 40. Control unit; 51. Over-temperature protection element; 52. Pressure relief valve; 60. Electrical control box. Detailed Implementation
[0041] To make the technical solutions and beneficial effects of this application more obvious and understandable, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application are clearly and completely described below by listing specific embodiments. Obviously, the embodiments of this application are not exhaustive, and the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments.
[0042] The exemplary embodiments disclosed in this application will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, providing detailed structures and steps to illustrate the technical solution of this application. Note that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and local features may be enlarged or reduced to more clearly show the details of the local features.
[0043] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and should not be construed as limiting the technical solutions of this application.
[0044] The following description provides numerous specific details to offer a more thorough understanding of this application. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this application can be practiced without one or more of these details. To clearly define the inventive concept of this application and avoid confusion with its content, technical features well-known in the art and conventionally understood by those skilled in the art are not elaborated upon. Specifically, this document does not fully list all features of actual embodiments, nor does it provide a detailed description of well-known functions and structures.
[0045] The inventors of this application discovered during the research and development that the heating temperature of the water tank of a water purifier needs to exceed 100 degrees Celsius, such as 112 degrees Celsius, which places more redundancy requirements on temperature control components such as temperature sensors and control parts.
[0046] Therefore, through further research and development, the inventors proposed the following technical solution.
[0047] Example 1
[0048] This application provides a pressurized hot water storage device. (See reference...) Figure 1 The pressurized hot water storage device includes:
[0049] Sealed tank 10;
[0050] Heating component 20 is disposed inside the sealed tank 10 and is used to heat the water inside the tank;
[0051] The temperature detection assembly 30 includes two temperature sensors, which are arranged at different positions inside the sealed container 10.
[0052] The control unit 40 is electrically connected to the heating component 20 and is used to control the start and stop of the heating component 20 according to the detection signals of the two temperature sensors. When the difference between the detection values of the two temperature sensors is greater than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, an alarm signal is issued and the heating component 20 is controlled to stop heating.
[0053] An independent protection component includes an over-temperature protection element 51 electrically connected to the control unit 40 and a pressure relief valve 52 installed on the top of the sealed tank 10. The over-temperature protection element 51 is configured to send a signal to the control unit 40 to control the heating component 20 to stop heating when the water temperature is detected to reach a first over-temperature threshold. The pressure relief valve 52 is configured to automatically open to release pressure when the pressure inside the sealed tank 10 reaches a preset pressure threshold.
[0054] Without limitation, the "sealed tank 10" refers to a closed container that can withstand working pressure higher than normal pressure and prevent hot water from vaporizing and escaping, which constitutes the basic structural basis of pressurized hot water storage; the "heating component 20" is used to provide heat energy and is the core functional component for realizing hot water heating.
[0055] Without limitation, the "two temperature sensors" in this application refer to sensing elements used to detect the water temperature at different locations within the sealed tank 10. Their types may include, but are not limited to, negative temperature coefficient thermistors (NTC), platinum resistance temperature detectors (PT100 with 100 ohms at 0°C), or digital temperature sensors. The "control unit 40" refers to an electronic control module capable of signal reception, comparison, logical judgment, and output control commands, such as a microcontroller unit (MCU), programmable logic controller (PLC), or application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The control unit 40 collects real-time detection values from the two temperature sensors, calculates their difference, and determines that the temperature distribution is abnormal when the difference is greater than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold. This triggers an alarm and cuts off heating to prevent localized overheating or dry burning. This technical effect is achieved by the combined feature of "two temperature sensors + control unit 40 collaboratively performing temperature difference judgment and shutdown control."
[0056] The control unit 40 can be integrated into the electrical control box 60. Its input port is connected to each temperature sensor through a shielded cable, and its output port is connected to a relay to control the power supply of the heating component 20.
[0057] For example, the preset temperature difference threshold can be set to 8℃. When the upper sensor detects a value of 95℃ and the lower sensor detects a value of 82℃, the difference of 13℃ is greater than 8℃, and the control unit 40 immediately stops heating and illuminates the fault indicator light. The first over-temperature threshold can be set to 112℃, corresponding to the upper limit of the design operating temperature of the pressurized hot water tank.
[0058] Furthermore, the control unit 40 can be configured with self-test logic to verify sensor consistency before each heating start-up, preventing operation with faults.
[0059] Furthermore, the control unit 40 can also record the timestamp of temperature difference exceeding the limit event and upload it to the remote monitoring platform through the communication module for easy maintenance and traceability.
[0060] The "over-temperature protection element 51" and "pressure relief valve 52" in the "independent protection component" constitute redundant safety measures at the electrical and mechanical levels, respectively. The former cuts off the heat source before the water temperature rises abnormally but before reaching the pressure relief pressure, while the latter provides a physical release channel in case of extreme overpressure. The two work together to improve overall safety. The combination of these features enables effective identification of sensor faults and multiple safety guarantees while allowing normal operation at high temperatures (e.g., >100℃).
[0061] In some other embodiments of this application, the two temperature sensors are respectively arranged in the middle and bottom of the sealed container 10.
[0062] In a non-restrictive manner, the arrangement of the "middle" and "bottom" utilizes the typical temperature gradient formed by the natural convection of hot water in the pressure tank—the water temperature is lower at the bottom and higher in the middle. This location selection can effectively amplify the reasonable temperature difference range under normal operating conditions. At the same time, it is easier to generate abnormal temperature differences beyond the reasonable range when the sensor fails (such as short circuit, open circuit or drift), thereby improving the sensitivity and reliability of fault identification.
[0063] Specifically, the middle section can refer to the 40% to 60% range in the height direction of the tank, and the bottom section can refer to the area within 10% of the height from the bottom of the tank.
[0064] Furthermore, this arrangement can be optimized in conjunction with the water flow direction to avoid local stagnant water areas affecting the representativeness of temperature measurements.
[0065] In some other embodiments of this application, the two temperature sensors and the over-temperature protection element 51 are arranged in layers along the height direction inside the sealed tank 10, wherein one temperature sensor is located in the middle of the tank, the other temperature sensor is located at the bottom of the tank, and the over-temperature protection element 51 is located at the top of the tank.
[0066] Without limitation, this "layered arrangement along the height direction" further clarifies the spatial layout relationship of the three key sensing / protection elements. Utilizing the temperature distribution characteristics in the vertical direction within the tank—the bottom representing the low-temperature zone, the middle representing the operating temperature zone, and the top representing the highest temperature zone (steam accumulation zone)—each element performs its specific function: two temperature sensors are used for diagnostic consistency, and the over-temperature protection element 51 is used to monitor the extreme temperature of the most dangerous area, thereby improving the overall coverage and targeting of monitoring. This layout strengthens the physical basis for fault diagnosis and over-temperature protection.
[0067] Specifically, the over-temperature protection element 51 can be attached to the inner wall of the tank top or placed in the steam chamber to quickly respond to high temperatures at the top.
[0068] Furthermore, this layered structure facilitates modular installation and maintenance, reducing mutual interference.
[0069] In some other embodiments of this application, the circuit connection of the over-temperature protection element 51 is independent of the signal acquisition circuit of the two temperature sensors, and the signal it sends to the control unit 40 is a switching signal.
[0070] In a non-restrictive sense, "independent circuit connection" means that the over-temperature protection element 51 does not rely on the analog signal path of the temperature sensor. Even if the sensor circuit experiences a short circuit, open circuit, or software logic error, the over-temperature protection can still trigger a shutdown through an independent hardware path, improving the robustness of the safety mechanism. "Switch signal" refers to having only two states, "on" and "off," simplifying the signal processing logic, reducing the risk of misjudgment, and facilitating interface with the interrupt or hard-wired input interface of the control unit 40, ensuring timely response. This feature strengthens the "independence" and "reliability" of the independent protection component.
[0071] Specifically, the over-temperature protection element 51 can be connected to the digital input port of the control unit 40 through a passive switch signal or a passive contact output of a relay.
[0072] For example, when the water temperature reaches 112°C, the bimetallic strip activates to close the contact and sends a high-level signal to the control unit 40.
[0073] Furthermore, this switching signal can be simultaneously connected in parallel to the control circuit of the heating relay to achieve hardware-level power-off.
[0074] In some other embodiments of this application, the over-temperature protection element 51 is a bimetallic thermostat with an operating temperature of 112℃±2℃, and its contacts are connected in series in the power supply circuit of the heating assembly 20 to achieve physical power cut-off.
[0075] In other words, the "bimetallic strip thermostat" is a passive temperature control element that requires no external power supply and relies on the difference in thermal expansion of materials to achieve mechanical action. It features high reliability and long lifespan. Its "operating temperature of 112℃±2℃" matches the extreme safe temperature of a pressurized hot water tank under saturation pressure. The "contacts connected in series in the heating power supply circuit" constitute a hardware-level power-off path, ensuring that even if the control unit 40 completely fails, the heating power supply can be forcibly cut off, making it an intrinsically safe design. This feature elevates independent protection to the level of physical power-off, enhancing safety under extreme conditions.
[0076] Specifically, the bimetallic strip temperature controller can be installed on the outer wall of the tank top and coupled to the internal temperature via thermally conductive silicone grease.
[0077] Furthermore, the contact can be designed as a one-time fuse or a resettable type, taking into account both safety and ease of use.
[0078] In some other embodiments of this application, the opening pressure of the pressure relief valve 52 is set to the pressure generated by saturated steam at a water temperature of 112°C.
[0079] Without limitation, this feature links the operating pressure of the pressure relief valve 52 to the saturated vapor pressure curve of water, so that the pressure relief action is only triggered when the water temperature actually exceeds the safety limit (e.g., 112°C) and causes an abnormal increase in pressure, thus avoiding accidental pressure relief when operating at normal high temperatures (e.g., 108°C). At the same time, this setting forms a logical connection with the operating temperature of the over-temperature protection element 51—first, electrical power is cut off, and if it is still out of control, mechanical pressure is relieved, forming an orderly safety response chain.
[0080] Furthermore, the pressure relief valve 52 can be integrated with a temperature-pressure linkage mechanism to improve response accuracy.
[0081] In some other embodiments of this application, the outer wall of the sealed tank 10 is provided with a heat insulation layer, the thickness of which is configured such that after the heating component 20 stops working, the time required for the water temperature inside the tank to drop from 108°C to 100°C is not less than 30 minutes.
[0082] In other words, the "insulation layer" is used to reduce heat loss and extend the usable time of hot water; the quantitative indicator of "thickness configuration ensuring a cooling time of ≥30 minutes" ensures that users still have enough time to use hot water after heating stops, while this slow cooling characteristic also helps to avoid sensor misjudgment caused by instantaneous temperature drop (such as localized low temperatures caused by condensation). This feature balances energy efficiency, user experience, and system stability.
[0083] Specifically, the insulation layer can be made of polyurethane foam with a density ≥40kg / m³.
[0084] For example, for a 5L capacity tank, the insulation layer thickness is approximately 25mm.
[0085] Furthermore, this thermal insulation performance can serve as a quantitative basis for the product's energy efficiency rating.
[0086] In some other embodiments of this application, a remote communication module connected to the control unit 40 is also included. The control unit 40 is configured to send alarm information to the user's mobile terminal via the remote communication module when a sensor failure or over-temperature event occurs.
[0087] Without limitation, "remote communication modules," such as Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Bluetooth, or Narrow Band Internet of Things (NB-IoT), enable the device to possess IoT capabilities; "sending alarms in case of faults or overheating" enables proactive early warning, facilitating timely user intervention and preventing the escalation of accidents, especially suitable for unattended scenarios (such as commercial water purifiers). This feature enhances the product's intelligence level and user safety assurance.
[0088] Specifically, alarm information may include the event type, timestamp, and suggested action instructions.
[0089] Furthermore, the communication module can periodically upload operation logs, supporting predictive maintenance.
[0090] Example 2
[0091] This application provides a control method for a pressurized hot water storage device as described in Embodiment 1, referencing... Figure 2 The method includes:
[0092] Step 801: Obtain the water temperature inside the sealed tank 10 using two temperature sensors located at different positions within the sealed tank 10;
[0093] Step 802: Compare the detection values of the two temperature sensors. When the difference between the two values is greater than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, issue an alarm signal and control the heating component 20 to stop heating.
[0094] Step 803: Monitor the water temperature through the over-temperature protection element 51. When the water temperature reaches the first over-temperature threshold, control the heating component 20 to stop heating. When the pressure inside the sealed tank 10 reaches the preset pressure threshold, perform mechanical pressure relief through the pressure relief valve 52.
[0095] Without limitation, the method claims to transform the device's multiple protection logic into an operational flow: "dual-sensor temperature difference judgment" is used to identify sensor malfunctions or abnormal temperature fields; "over-temperature protection element 51 monitoring" provides an electrical shutdown trigger independent of the main control; and "pressure relief valve 52 mechanical pressure relief" serves as the final physical barrier. The three respond sequentially according to risk level, forming a layered protection strategy that effectively distinguishes between normal high temperatures and dangerous conditions.
[0096] Specifically, the temperature difference comparison can be performed once per control cycle (e.g., per second); an over-temperature signal can trigger a hard interrupt.
[0097] For example, the preset temperature difference threshold is 5°C, and the first over-temperature threshold is 112°C.
[0098] Furthermore, each step can be executed in parallel without affecting the response speed.
[0099] In other embodiments of this application, the method further includes:
[0100] When both temperature sensors detect that the water temperature has reached the temperature control threshold, the heating component 20 is controlled to stop heating.
[0101] Without limitation, this feature introduces a "dual-sensor consistency confirmation" mechanism as a normal shutdown condition, avoiding premature or delayed shutdown caused by single-sensor drift, thus improving temperature control accuracy and system fault tolerance. Only when the temperature at both spatial locations reaches the target value is it determined that the set temperature has been truly reached, enhancing the reliability of the temperature control logic.
[0102] Specifically, the temperature control threshold can be set by the user to 108℃.
[0103] For example, if only one sensor reaches 108°C while the other reaches 105°C, heating continues.
[0104] Furthermore, this logic can be expanded to "stop if any limit is exceeded" for the safety upper limit, and "stop only if both limits are met" for the target temperature, thus achieving differentiated control.
[0105] In other embodiments of this application, the method further includes:
[0106] The heating component 20 is controlled to start or stop only when both temperature sensors are effective and the difference between their detected values is less than the preset temperature difference threshold. If either sensor fails or the temperature difference between them exceeds the limit, heating is stopped and an alarm is triggered.
[0107] Without limitation, this feature establishes the principle of "validity-first judgment," making sensor status verification a prerequisite for temperature control logic. This fundamentally eliminates control decisions based on unreliable data, reflecting the design philosophy of "safety first, function second." This logic significantly improves the predictability and safety of the system's behavior under partial fault conditions.
[0108] Specifically, "sensor effective" can mean that the signal is within a reasonable range (e.g., 0~120℃) and communication is normal.
[0109] For example, if the bottom sensor reading is 150°C (which is beyond physical possibility), it is considered to be malfunctioning.
[0110] Furthermore, historical data trends can be introduced to help determine whether a momentary anomaly is a real fault.
[0111] In other embodiments of this application, the method further includes:
[0112] Before starting heating, the initial readings of the two temperature sensors are obtained and their difference is calculated. If the initial difference is greater than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold, heating is prohibited and a sensor fault alarm is issued.
[0113] In a non-restrictive sense, the control implemented before heating is started, namely the "pre-start self-check" mechanism, can prevent the device from entering the heating state if there is already a sensor malfunction, avoiding being in an uncontrollable risk from the beginning. This is a preventative safety measure. Compared to in-operation detection, pre-start detection can intercept faults earlier and reduce the possibility of false heating. The initial difference can be understood as the difference between the initial readings of the two temperature sensors obtained before heating is started.
[0114] Specifically, the check can be performed after the user presses the heating button and before the relay engages.
[0115] For example, the temperature difference between the two sensors should be less than 3°C when the machine is cold; if it reaches 6°C, an error will be reported.
[0116] Furthermore, the initial temperature difference threshold can be compensated by combining it with the ambient temperature.
[0117] In some other embodiments of this application, before comparing the detection values of the two temperature sensors, the detection signals of the two temperature sensors are further filtered to eliminate signal interference.
[0118] In other words, "filtering" (such as moving average or low-pass filtering) can suppress instantaneous temperature jumps caused by water flow, bubbles, or electromagnetic interference, avoiding misjudgments of excessive temperature differences due to noise, and improving the anti-interference capability and stability of fault diagnosis. This feature ensures the signal quality of temperature difference comparison.
[0119] Specifically, a 5-point moving average can be used with a sampling interval of 1 second.
[0120] Furthermore, the filtering parameters can be dynamically adjusted according to the heating state (e.g., relaxed during heating and tightened during heat preservation).
[0121] In some other embodiments of this application, the preset temperature difference threshold is dynamically adjusted according to the average water temperature inside the sealed tank 10; when the average water temperature is below 80°C, the preset temperature difference threshold is 8°C; when the average water temperature is above or equal to 80°C, the preset temperature difference threshold is 5°C.
[0122] Without limitation, this "dynamic threshold" mechanism takes into account the variation of natural temperature difference in different temperature ranges—weak convection and large temperature difference at low temperatures, and strong convection and small temperature difference at high temperatures. Therefore, using segmented thresholds is more in line with physical reality, avoiding false alarms at low temperatures and ensuring high sensitivity at high temperatures, thus improving the adaptability and accuracy of fault identification.
[0123] Specifically, the average water temperature can be taken as the arithmetic mean of the readings from the two sensors.
[0124] For example, a temperature difference of 7°C is allowed at 70°C, and only a temperature difference of 4°C is allowed at 100°C.
[0125] Furthermore, a smooth transition can be achieved using continuous functions (such as linear interpolation).
[0126] Example 3
[0127] This application provides a water purifier, including the pressurized hot water storage device described in Embodiment 1.
[0128] Without limitation, this claim integrates the aforementioned hot water storage device into a water purifier, enabling it to instantly generate high-temperature pressurized hot water, suitable for scenarios requiring high-temperature sterilization, tea brewing, or direct drinking. Since water purifiers are typically powered on continuously and unattended, the introduction of a hot water module with multiple safety protections significantly enhances the overall safety level and functional integrity of the device.
[0129] Specifically, the hot water storage device can serve as the end heating unit of a water purifier, located after the reverse osmosis membrane (RO membrane).
[0130] For example, this can be applied to a countertop water purifier to provide 108°C hot water for preparing milk powder or sterilizing.
[0131] Furthermore, it can be linked with parameters such as purified water flow rate and total dissolved solids (TDS) value to optimize the heating strategy.
[0132] It should be noted that the various embodiments or implementation methods in this document can be described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from other embodiments. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to mutually. It should be understood that in the various embodiments of this application, the embodiment numbers are merely for descriptive purposes and do not represent the superiority or inferiority of the embodiments.
[0133] Understandably, without conflict, the technical features in the technical solutions described in each embodiment can be arbitrarily combined to form new embodiments. For example, each structure in each embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the structures can be arbitrarily combined; some or all of the structures in different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined. Each step in each embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be arbitrarily combined; the order of the steps can be arbitrarily interchanged; some or all of the steps in different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined. Furthermore, regarding the table in the embodiments, each element, each row, or each column in the table can be implemented as an independent embodiment.
[0134] In this document, when the terms "embodiment," "implementation," or "example" are used, it means that the specific features described in connection with these implementations or examples are included in at least one implementation, embodiment, or example of this application. It should be noted that the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same implementation, embodiment, or example. Furthermore, the specific features described, such as structures or steps, can be appropriately combined in any one or more implementations, embodiments, or examples.
[0135] In some embodiments, prefixes such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish different descriptive objects and do not impose restrictions on the position, order, priority, or value of the descriptive objects. The description of the descriptive objects is given in the context of the embodiments, and the use of prefixes does not constitute unnecessary restrictions. For example, the numerical value of a descriptive object is not limited by ordinal numbers and can be one or more. Taking "first device" as an example, the numerical value of "device" can be one or more. Furthermore, objects modified by different prefixes can be the same or different. For example, if the descriptive object is "device," then "first device" and "second device" can be the same device or different devices, and their types can be the same or different. Describing "first" does not necessarily imply the existence of "second," and discussing "second" does not necessarily imply the existence of "first."
[0136] In some embodiments, unless otherwise stated, elements expressed in the singular, such as “a,” “the,” “the,” “the,” “the,” “the,” etc., may mean “one and only one,” or “one or more,” “at least one,” etc. In some embodiments, “multiple” means two or more.
[0137] In some embodiments, the terms “at least one,” “one or more,” “multiple,” etc., can be used interchangeably.
[0138] In some embodiments, the notation "at least one of A and B", "A and / or B", "A in one case, B in another", "A in one case, B in another", etc., may include the following technical solutions depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (A is executed regardless of B); in some embodiments, B (B is executed regardless of A); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed); in some embodiments, both A and B are executed. The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, C, etc.
[0139] In some embodiments, the notation "A or B" may include the following technical solutions, depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execution of A regardless of B); in some embodiments, B (execution of B regardless of A); in some embodiments, selective execution from A and B (A and B are selectively executed). The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, and C.
[0140] In some embodiments, unless otherwise expressly defined, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," "fixing," "setting," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can be a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a communication connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can also refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this embodiment according to the specific circumstances.
[0141] In some embodiments, the terms “center,” “longitudinal,” “lateral,” “length,” “width,” “thickness,” “height,” “up,” “down,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,” “inner,” “outer,” “clockwise,” and “counterclockwise” indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only used for the purpose of simplifying the description of this application and do not indicate that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. That is, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.
[0142] In some embodiments, unless otherwise expressly defined, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or indirect contact via an intermediate medium, or that they are not in contact, but simply indicate that the horizontal level of the first feature is higher than that of the second feature. Furthermore, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above, directly below, or diagonally below the second feature.
[0143] In some embodiments, spatial relation terms such as “upper” and “lower” may be used for convenience of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature shown in the figures to other elements or features. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientation shown in the figures, spatial relation terms are intended to also include different orientations of the device in use and operation. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, the description of an element or feature “below” other elements or features will change it to “upper” other elements or features. Therefore, the exemplary terms “upper” and “lower” can include both upper and lower orientations. The device may also be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or otherwise), and the spatial descriptive terms used herein will be interpreted accordingly.
[0144] It should be understood that the above embodiments are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application and do not limit the scope of protection of this patent application. The above embodiments are all exemplary and are not intended to encompass all possible implementation methods included in the technical solutions of this application. Various modifications and changes can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
Claims
1. A pressurized hot water storage device, characterized in that, include: Sealed tank; A heating component, located inside the sealed tank, is used to heat the water inside the tank; The temperature detection assembly includes two temperature sensors arranged at different locations within the sealed container. The control unit is electrically connected to the heating component and is used to control the start and stop of the heating component according to the detection signals of the two temperature sensors. When the difference between the detection values of the two temperature sensors is greater than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, an alarm signal is issued and the heating component is controlled to stop heating. An independent protection component includes an over-temperature protection element electrically connected to the control unit and a pressure relief valve installed on the top of the sealed tank. The over-temperature protection element is configured to send a signal to the control unit to control the heating component to stop heating when the water temperature reaches a first over-temperature threshold. The pressure relief valve is configured to automatically open to release pressure when the pressure inside the sealed tank reaches a preset pressure threshold.
2. The pressurized hot water storage device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The two temperature sensors are respectively located in the middle and at the bottom of the sealed container.
3. The pressurized hot water storage device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The two temperature sensors and the over-temperature protection element are arranged in layers along the height direction inside the sealed tank, wherein one temperature sensor is located in the middle of the tank, the other temperature sensor is located at the bottom of the tank, and the over-temperature protection element is located at the top of the tank.
4. The pressurized hot water storage device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The circuit connection of the over-temperature protection element is independent of the signal acquisition circuit of the two temperature sensors, and the signal it sends to the control unit is a switching signal.
5. The pressurized hot water storage device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The over-temperature protection element is a bimetallic strip thermostat with an operating temperature of 112℃±2℃, and its contacts are connected in series in the power supply circuit of the heating component to achieve physical power cut-off.
6. The pressurized hot water storage device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The opening pressure of the pressure relief valve is set to the pressure generated by saturated steam at a water temperature of 112°C.
7. The pressurized hot water storage device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The outer wall of the sealed tank is provided with a heat insulation layer, the thickness of which is configured such that after the heating component stops working, the time required for the water temperature inside the tank to drop from 108°C to 100°C is not less than 30 minutes.
8. The pressurized hot water storage device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a remote communication module connected to the control unit, which is configured to send alarm information to the user's mobile terminal via the remote communication module when a sensor failure or over-temperature event occurs.
9. A control method for a pressurized hot water storage device as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, include: The water temperature inside the sealed tank is obtained by using two temperature sensors located at different positions within the sealed tank. The detection values of the two temperature sensors are compared. When the difference between the two values is greater than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, an alarm signal is issued and the heating component is controlled to stop heating. The over-temperature protection element monitors the water temperature, and when the water temperature reaches the first over-temperature threshold, it controls the heating component to stop heating. When the pressure inside the sealed tank reaches a preset pressure threshold, mechanical pressure is released through a pressure relief valve.
10. The control method for the pressurized hot water storage device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: When both temperature sensors detect that the water temperature has reached the temperature control threshold, the heating component is controlled to stop heating.
11. The control method for the pressurized hot water storage device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: The heating component is controlled to start or stop only when both temperature sensors are effective and the difference between their detected values is less than the preset temperature difference threshold. If either sensor fails or the temperature difference between the two sensors exceeds the limit, heating is stopped and an alarm is triggered.
12. The control method for the pressurized hot water storage device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: Before starting heating, the initial readings of the two temperature sensors are obtained and their difference is calculated. If the initial difference is greater than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold, heating is prohibited and a sensor fault alarm is issued.
13. The control method for the pressurized hot water storage device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, Before comparing the detection values of the two temperature sensors, the detection signals of the two temperature sensors are filtered to eliminate signal interference.
14. The control method for the pressurized hot water storage device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The preset temperature difference threshold is dynamically adjusted according to the average water temperature inside the sealed tank; when the average water temperature is below 80℃, the preset temperature difference threshold is 8℃; when the average water temperature is above or equal to 80℃, the preset temperature difference threshold is 5℃.
15. A water purifier, characterized in that, Includes the pressurized hot water storage device according to any one of claims 1-8.