A humidifier heating control method, apparatus, device, and storage medium

CN122920587APending Publication Date: 2026-10-16SHENZHEN CHENBEI TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202510415335.8
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-04-03
Publication Date
2026-10-16

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

当前,加湿器通常采用杀菌剂、紫外杀菌等独立杀菌元件或结合使用温度传感器来实现杀菌功能,这些方式不仅增加了功耗,同时增加了耗材,从而导致了较差的杀菌效果及加湿效果

Benefits of technology

[0040]As can be seen, this application first detects the current water volume of the humidifier, wherein the current water volume includes at least the water volume of the humidifier water tank, then determines the preset heating power and preset heating time corresponding to the current water volume, and then controls the heating element to circulate and heat the water in the water circulation system of the humidifier according to the preset heating power, and makes the heating time of the heating element reach the preset heating time; wherein the water circulation system includes the humidifier water tank, the external water channel of the water tank, and the water channel of the wettable substrate; the heating element is disposed in the water circulation system of the humidifier. This application, when heating and sterilizing a humidifier, takes into account the characteristics of the humidifier and does not directly detect the water temperature. Instead of using a temperature sensor to detect the water temperature, it determines the heating power and heating time of the current heating element based on the water volume of the humidifier. Since the relationship between the heating power and heating time and the corresponding water volume is preset, the heating power and heating time suitable for the current sterilization mode can be directly found based on the current water volume, thereby achieving effective sterilization. In addition, there is no need to use independent sterilization elements such as bactericides or ultraviolet sterilization, thus reducing power consumption and consumables.

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Abstract

The application discloses a humidifier heating control method and device, equipment and storage medium, relates to the technical field of humidifier control, and comprises the following steps: detecting the current water quantity of a humidifier, wherein the current water quantity at least includes the water quantity of a water tank of the humidifier; determining a preset heating power and a preset heating duration corresponding to the current water quantity; controlling a heating element to cyclically heat water located in a water circulation system of the humidifier at the preset heating power, and making the heating time of the heating element reach the preset heating duration; the water circulation system comprises the water tank, an external water path of the water tank and a water path of a wettable base material; and the heating element is arranged in the water circulation system of the humidifier. The application can effectively kill bacteria and reduce power consumption and consumables.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of humidifier control technology, and in particular to a humidifier heating control method, device, equipment and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of artificial intelligence, various smart home products have been widely used, such as humidifiers with sterilization functions. Currently, humidifiers typically use independent sterilization components such as bactericides and ultraviolet sterilization, or combine them with temperature sensors to achieve sterilization. These methods not only increase power consumption but also increase consumables, resulting in poor sterilization and humidification effects. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, the purpose of this application is to provide a humidifier heating control method, device, equipment, and storage medium, which can achieve effective sterilization and reduce power consumption and consumables. The specific solution is as follows:

[0004] In a first aspect, this application discloses a humidifier heating control method, including:

[0005] Detect the current water level of the humidifier, wherein the current water level includes at least the water level in the humidifier's water tank;

[0006] Determine the preset heating power and preset heating duration corresponding to the current water volume;

[0007] The heating element is controlled to circulate and heat the water in the water circulation system of the humidifier according to the preset heating power, and the heating time of the heating element reaches the preset heating duration.

[0008] The water circulation system includes the humidifier water tank, the external water passage of the water tank, and the water passage of the wettable substrate;

[0009] The heating element is located in the water circulation system of the humidifier.

[0010] Optionally, determining the preset heating power and preset heating duration corresponding to the current water volume includes:

[0011] Obtain the preset heating power and preset heating duration corresponding to the heating element in the humidifier and the current water volume from the preset schedule;

[0012] The preset time schedule is a table showing the correspondence between different heating times and heating power, created based on a preset temperature change curve; the preset temperature change curve is a curve showing the change of water temperature with heating time under different water volumes and corresponding preset heating powers.

[0013] The preset heating time is the time it takes for the water temperature in the water circulation system to reach a preset temperature threshold, which is determined in advance based on different water volumes and corresponding preset heating power.

[0014] Optionally, before detecting the current water volume of the humidifier, the method further includes:

[0015] Collect water temperature values ​​of different types of heating elements under different water volumes and multiple initial heating powers, and generate the water temperature value change curve with the initial heating time to obtain the initial temperature change curve;

[0016] When user feedback on water temperature is received, the heating parameters in the initial temperature change curve are adjusted based on the feedback and using a thermal balance model to obtain the preset temperature change curve of the corresponding heating element; the heating parameters include the initial heating power and the initial heating duration.

[0017] Optionally, after reaching the preset heating time, the process further includes:

[0018] The heating element is controlled to continue heating the water in the water circulation system in order to maintain the water temperature in the water circulation system within a preset temperature range.

[0019] Optionally, maintaining the water temperature within the water circulation system within a preset temperature range includes:

[0020] The heating element is controlled by pulse heating technology and the target heating power is used to heat the water in the water circulation system to maintain the water temperature in the current water circulation system within a preset temperature range; the target heating power is less than the preset heating power.

[0021] Optionally, the process of circulating and heating the water in the water circulation system further includes:

[0022] When a decrease in the water volume within the water circulation system is detected, the current water volume within the water circulation system is determined to obtain the real-time water volume.

[0023] Calculate the difference between the real-time water capacity and the current water volume, and the ratio of the difference to the preset capacity;

[0024] Calculate the product of the ratio and the preset compensation time, and shorten the preset heating time based on the product;

[0025] Alternatively, when a drop in the water level is detected in the water circulation system, the current water level in the water circulation system is determined to obtain the real-time water level;

[0026] Calculate the difference between the real-time water level and the current water level, and the ratio of the difference to the preset water level;

[0027] Calculate the product of the ratio and the preset compensation time, and shorten the preset heating time based on the product.

[0028] Optionally, the humidifier heating control method further includes:

[0029] The humidifier's fan is controlled to operate according to a preset working mode, and when the temperature of the water in the water circulation system is detected to reach the preset temperature threshold, the fan speed is reduced or the fan operation is stopped.

[0030] Optionally, the process of circulating and heating the water in the water circulation system further includes:

[0031] The circulation speed of water in the water circulation system is controlled by a fixed flow valve;

[0032] And / or, the heat exchange efficiency of the water circuit in the water circulation system is adjusted by controlling the flow rate of the water pump.

[0033] Secondly, this application discloses a humidifier, comprising:

[0034] A water level sensor is used to detect the current water level of the humidifier, wherein the current water level includes at least the water level in the humidifier's water tank.

[0035] A memory is used to determine the preset heating power and preset heating duration corresponding to the current water volume;

[0036] A control circuit is used to control the heating element to circulate and heat the water in the water circulation system of the humidifier according to the preset heating power, and to make the heating time of the heating element reach the preset heating duration;

[0037] The water circulation system includes the humidifier water tank, the external water passage of the water tank, and the water passage of the wettable substrate;

[0038] The heating element is located in the water circulation system of the humidifier.

[0039] Thirdly, this application discloses a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program; wherein, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the aforementioned humidifier heating control method.

[0040] As can be seen, this application first detects the current water volume of the humidifier, wherein the current water volume includes at least the water volume of the humidifier water tank, then determines the preset heating power and preset heating time corresponding to the current water volume, and then controls the heating element to circulate and heat the water in the water circulation system of the humidifier according to the preset heating power, and makes the heating time of the heating element reach the preset heating time; wherein the water circulation system includes the humidifier water tank, the external water channel of the water tank, and the water channel of the wettable substrate; the heating element is disposed in the water circulation system of the humidifier. This application, when heating and sterilizing a humidifier, takes into account the characteristics of the humidifier and does not directly detect the water temperature. Instead of using a temperature sensor to detect the water temperature, it determines the heating power and heating time of the current heating element based on the water volume of the humidifier. Since the relationship between the heating power and heating time and the corresponding water volume is preset, the heating power and heating time suitable for the current sterilization mode can be directly found based on the current water volume, thereby achieving effective sterilization. In addition, there is no need to use independent sterilization elements such as bactericides or ultraviolet sterilization, thus reducing power consumption and consumables. Attached Figure Description

[0041] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of a humidifier heating control method disclosed in this application;

[0043] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a specific humidifier structure disclosed in this application;

[0044] Figure 3 This application discloses a specific flowchart of a humidifier heating control method;

[0045] Figure 4 This is a structural diagram of an electronic device disclosed in this application. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0047] This application discloses a humidifier heating control method. See also Figure 1 As shown, the method includes:

[0048] Step S11: Detect the current water volume of the humidifier, wherein the current water volume includes at least the water volume in the humidifier's water tank.

[0049] In this embodiment, when controlling the heating and sterilization of the humidifier, the water volume in the entire water circulation system of the humidifier is first detected to obtain the current water volume; wherein, the water in the water circulation system may specifically include water in the water tank, water on the humidifiable and wettable substrate or base, water in the water pipes, etc.

[0050] For details, see Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2 The structure of a water circulation system in a humidifier and the direction of water flow for water circulation heating are shown. By heating the water through water circulation and maintaining the water in the entire water circulation system within a certain temperature range for a preset time, the entire water circuit of the machine can be sterilized.

[0051] In one specific embodiment, the humidifier has the structure of an evaporative humidifier. This humidifier has a humidifiable and wettable substrate or base. Water is drawn from a water tank by a water pump, and a heating element, such as a pipe-type PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) element, is installed on the water pipes. Alternatively, the heating element can be placed inside the water tank. Furthermore, the water pipes connect to a water distribution slot at the top of the wettable substrate (such as a filter screen, fabric, mesh, or non-woven fabric), allowing water to flow into the distribution slot. The distribution slot receives the water and distributes it evenly across the wettable substrate. Additionally, the humidifier has an internal fan that draws in air from the outside and directs it to the wettable substrate, thus carrying the moisture from the substrate out into the external space, thereby achieving air humidification.

[0052] Specifically, detecting the current water volume of the humidifier can include: detecting the current water volume and level in the humidifier's water circulation system using a water level sensor and a float switch to obtain the current water volume and level. In this embodiment, the water level sensor can be used to detect the current water level in the humidifier's water circulation system, thereby obtaining the current water volume and level information of the humidifier. The water volume can be detected before water circulation is started, at which time the water volume of the entire unit is mainly concentrated in the water tank. Therefore, the water volume detected at this time is the current water volume of the humidifier, that is, the total water volume of the humidifier. After water circulation is started, at least some of the water in the water tank will enter the water path or onto a wettable substrate or base, and the water volume in the water tank will continue to decrease for a short period of time. Alternatively, it can also be detected by weight, such as weighing the humidifier empty and comparing its weight after adding water, using the density of water (1 kg / L) to convert the weight into volume; or by detecting the water volume in the humidifier's water circulation system through the water pump flow rate and running time. By using a combination of water level sensor and float switch detection, weight detection, or water pump flow time sequence analysis, the current water capacity of the water circulation system (water tank, pipes, filter screen, etc.) can be obtained in real time, which can accurately reflect the actual water distribution status inside the humidifier.

[0053] Step S12: Determine the preset heating power and preset heating time corresponding to the current water volume.

[0054] In this embodiment, after detecting the current water volume of the humidifier, a preset heating power and preset heating duration corresponding to the current heating element and current water volume in the humidifier can be matched from a preset schedule. Specifically, the preset heating power and preset heating duration are heating power and heating duration pre-set for humidifiers in sterilization mode at different water volumes based on historical heating data.

[0055] The system can dynamically adjust parameters to accommodate changes in water volume at different usage stages (such as initial filling, mid-cycle water replenishment, and filter saturation). This ensures the sterilization process is always adapted to the current water volume, while also improving sterilization efficiency and preventing insufficient heating power (incomplete sterilization) or excessive power (energy waste) due to water volume estimation errors. For example, when the water volume is small, reducing the heating power and shortening the time can still achieve the target sterilization temperature; when the water volume is large, higher power can be used for rapid heating.

[0056] In one embodiment, this application pre-creates a preset timetable for different types of heating elements based on a preset temperature change curve. This preset timetable can be used even when a temperature sensor is not required on the humidifier. The timetable records the correspondence between different heating durations and heating power. The preset temperature change curve is the water temperature change curve under different water volumes and corresponding preset heating powers, i.e., the temperature change curve under different water volumes and heating powers. The preset heating duration is the duration determined in advance based on different water volumes and corresponding preset heating powers when the water temperature in the water circulation system reaches a preset temperature threshold. Through the pre-created preset timetable, the heating power and heating duration matching the current operating state can be directly extracted during real-time heating and sterilization control, eliminating the need for real-time power and duration calculations or real-time temperature calculations. This overcomes the limitations of traditional humidifiers that rely on temperature feedback, improves the efficiency of heating and sterilization control, enhances system stability, and avoids parameter fluctuations caused by real-time calculation errors (such as sensor noise and environmental interference), thereby ensuring a smooth and controllable heating process.

[0057] In one embodiment, the process of obtaining the preset temperature change curve may include: pre-collecting water temperature values ​​of different types of heating elements under different water volumes and multiple initial heating powers, and generating a curve showing the change of the water temperature value with the initial heating time to obtain the initial temperature change curve. The above steps can be performed by pre-programming the pre-collected data and program algorithms into the hardware program before the humidifier leaves the factory. During humidifier use, the humidifier may not be equipped with a temperature sensor. When it receives user feedback information regarding water temperature, such as 50℃, 60℃, or 70℃, it adjusts the heating parameters in the initial temperature change curve according to the feedback information to obtain the corresponding preset temperature change curve for the heating element; the heating parameters include the initial heating power and the initial heating time.

[0058] In one embodiment, the process of obtaining the preset temperature change curve may specifically include: detecting and collecting (only needed when initially generating the temperature change curve) historical water temperature values ​​for different types of heating elements under different water volumes (e.g., 3L) and multiple different initial heating powers, and then generating a curve showing the change of historical water temperature values ​​with multiple preset initial heating durations to obtain the initial temperature change curve. When user feedback information regarding water temperature is received, such as when the user manually reports "overheated" or "insufficient" water temperature through a preset interface (e.g., a button or an app), the heating parameters can be fine-tuned. Specifically, based on the user's feedback information and using a thermal balance model, the heating parameters (i.e., initial heating power and initial heating duration) in the initial temperature change curve can be adjusted to obtain the preset temperature change curve for the corresponding heating element. This curve can be stored in a preset storage space, such as an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory).

[0059] The calculation formula for the heat balance model is as follows:

[0060]

[0061] In the formula, P is the heating power, k is the thermal conductivity coefficient, A is the heat dissipation area, ΔT represents the difference between the water temperature and the ambient temperature, m represents the water volume, and c is the specific heat capacity. This represents the rate of temperature change.

[0062] Specifically, the temperature change curve can be solved using numerical methods (such as the Euler method), and the heating power can be dynamically adjusted based on the heat balance model.

[0063] For example, when the water volume in the temperature change curve is 3L, the corresponding heating power is 250W (which is the full power of the heating element), and the heating time is t (e.g., 20 minutes). This heating parameter can cover the temperature rise requirement of the maximum water volume (3L).

[0064] The preset heating time can be calculated using thermodynamic formulas. Specifically, it can be calculated in advance by taking into account factors such as water tank capacity, initial water temperature (default room temperature), heating power (250W), and water's specific heat capacity (4.186kJ / kg·℃) to determine the time required to reach the target temperature (e.g., 60℃). For example, when heating at full power (250W), the continuous heating time is T1 minutes, and the formula is T1=Q / (P×η), where Q is the total heat demand and η is the thermal efficiency.

[0065] Step S13: Control the heating element to circulate and heat the water in the water circulation system of the humidifier according to the preset heating power, and make the heating time of the heating element reach the preset heating time; the water circulation system includes the humidifier water tank, the external water channel of the water tank and the water channel of the wettable substrate; the heating element is disposed in the water circulation system of the humidifier.

[0066] In this embodiment, after determining the preset heating power and preset heating duration that match the current water volume, an adjustable power heating circuit, such as PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) or a microcontroller unit (MCU), can control the PTC heating element to circulate and heat the water in the humidifier's water circulation system according to the preset heating power and continue for the preset heating duration, thereby achieving a sterilization effect on the entire water circuit. The preset heating duration is the time when the water temperature in the water circulation system reaches a preset temperature threshold, which is determined in advance based on different water volumes and corresponding preset heating power (e.g., 250W).

[0067] It should be noted that the heating element is located in the humidifier's water circulation system, and the heating element uses at least two different heating powers when reaching the preset heating time. By dynamically switching between at least two heating powers during the preset heating time (e.g., using high power to quickly raise the water temperature in the initial stage, and then switching to low power to maintain thermal balance), it is possible not only to match differentiated heat load requirements according to the decreasing water volume characteristics and avoid energy waste caused by constant power, but also to suppress the risk of overheating in local water circuits caused by continuous high power heating through a stepped power reduction strategy. This reduces the temperature difference fluctuation between the substrate water circuit and the external water circuit, improving heating uniformity and extending the life of the heating element. Furthermore, this multi-stage power coordination mechanism can achieve dual protection against boiling and dry burning without relying on temperature sensors, thus significantly enhancing system safety and environmental adaptability.

[0068] In this embodiment, the process of circulating and heating water in the water circulation system may further include: when a decrease in the water volume in the water circulation system is detected, determining the current water volume in the water circulation system to obtain the real-time water volume; calculating the difference between the real-time water volume and the current water volume, and the ratio of the difference to a preset capacity; calculating the product of the ratio and a preset compensation time, and shortening the preset heating time based on the product. It is understood that if a change in the water volume of the water circulation system is detected during the heating control of the humidifier, continuing to heat according to the preset heating time determined based on a preset temperature change curve would result in a temperature higher than the required sterilization temperature, thereby increasing power consumption. Therefore, the expected heating temperature can be achieved by shortening the heating time. Specifically, when a decrease in the water volume in the water circulation system is detected, the decrease can be calculated first, then the ratio of the difference to the preset capacity and the product of the ratio and the preset compensation time can be calculated, thereby dynamically adjusting the preset heating time. For example, when a decrease in water volume is detected in the water circulation system (e.g., a drop in water level of 0.5L), the time t can be shortened proportionally (e.g., shorten by 5 minutes for every 0.5L decrease).

[0069] In this embodiment, the process of circulating and heating water in the water circulation system may further include: when a drop in the water level is detected in the water circulation system, determining the current water level in the water circulation system to obtain a real-time water level; calculating the difference between the real-time water level and the current water level, and the ratio of the difference to a preset water level; calculating the product of the ratio and a preset compensation time, and shortening the preset heating time based on the product. In this embodiment, similar to the reduction in water volume, when a drop in the water level of the water circulation system is detected (e.g., a drop of 1 cm), meaning a reduction in water volume, the preset heating time needs to be shortened. Specifically, the time t can be shortened proportionally (e.g., shortening by 5 minutes for every 1 cm reduction).

[0070] The water circulation system can refer to the various main hardware components through which water flows in a humidifier. For example, in an evaporative humidifier, water in the tank can be guided to the wettable substrate by gravity or a water pump through a medium, water pipe, waterway, or water conduit. Therefore, the water circulation system includes at least one of the following: a water tank, an external water path, and a water path to the wettable substrate. The external water path refers to the location or space where water flows outside the water tank and the wettable substrate, such as a water pipe, water pump, or conductive medium. Starting the water circulation system involves circulating water between the water tank and the wettable substrate, for example, by opening the water tank's drain valve or the water pump. Closing the water circulation system involves stopping the water circulation between the wettable substrate and the water tank, for example, by closing the water tank's drain valve or the water pump. It is conceivable that there is a short delay in the water circulation system during the brief moment of opening or closing the water tank's drain valve or the water pump; this delay is not excluded in the embodiments.

[0071] In this embodiment, the process of circulating and heating water in the water circulation system may further include: when a change in the water volume within the water circulation system is detected, determining the current water volume in the water circulation system to obtain a target water volume; if the target water volume is less than a first capacity threshold, reducing the heating power of the current heating element; if the target water volume is greater than a second capacity threshold, increasing the heating power of the current heating element; wherein the second capacity threshold is greater than the first capacity threshold. That is, the water volume change in the water circulation system is monitored in real time. If the current water volume exceeds the second capacity threshold, the heating power of the heating element is increased to achieve rapid heating; if the current water volume is less than the first capacity threshold, the heating power of the current heating element is reduced to prevent power consumption. In other words, when the water volume is low, the heating power is reduced; when the water volume is high, the heating power is increased.

[0072] As can be seen, in this embodiment, the current water volume of the humidifier is first detected, wherein the current water volume includes at least the water volume of the humidifier water tank. Then, the preset heating power and preset heating time corresponding to the current water volume are determined. Then, the heating element is controlled to circulate and heat the water in the water circulation system of the humidifier according to the preset heating power, and the heating time of the heating element reaches the preset heating time. The water circulation system includes the humidifier water tank, the external water channel of the water tank, and the water channel of the wettable substrate. The heating element is disposed in the water circulation system of the humidifier. In this embodiment of the application, when heating and sterilizing a humidifier, the characteristics of the humidifier are taken into account. Instead of directly detecting the water temperature, such as without using a temperature sensor to detect the water temperature, the heating power and heating time of the current heating element are determined based on the water volume of the humidifier. Since the relationship between the heating power and heating time and the corresponding water volume is preset, the heating power and heating time suitable for the current sterilization working mode can be directly found based on the current water volume, thereby achieving effective sterilization. In addition, there is no need to use independent sterilization elements such as bactericides or ultraviolet sterilization for sterilization, thus reducing power consumption and consumables.

[0073] This application discloses a specific humidifier heating control method. (See also...) Figure 3 As shown, the method includes:

[0074] Step S21: Detect the current water volume of the humidifier, wherein the current water volume includes at least the water volume in the humidifier's water tank.

[0075] Step S22: Determine the preset heating power and preset heating time corresponding to the current water volume.

[0076] Step S23: Control the heating element to circulate and heat the water in the water circulation system of the humidifier according to the preset heating power, and make the heating time of the heating element reach the preset heating time; the water circulation system includes the humidifier water tank, the external water channel of the water tank and the water channel of the wettable substrate; the heating element is disposed in the water circulation system of the humidifier.

[0077] Step S24: Control the heating element to continue heating the water in the water circulation system to maintain the water temperature in the water circulation system within a preset temperature range.

[0078] In this embodiment, after the heating element has reached the preset heating time, the heating element can be further controlled to continue heating the water in the water circulation system, thereby maintaining the water temperature in the water circulation system within the preset temperature range to achieve a better sterilization effect. That is, after reaching the preset time, the heating element continues to work for a period of time to maintain the water temperature within a target temperature range.

[0079] Specifically, maintaining the water temperature in the water circulation system within a preset temperature range may include: using pulse heating technology and controlling the heating element to heat the water in the water circulation system according to a target heating power, so as to maintain the current water temperature in the water circulation system within the preset temperature range; the target heating power is less than the preset heating power.

[0080] For example, a reduced-frequency pulse heating method (such as 50W cycle start-stop) can be used, and the residual temperature can be maintained by controlling the duty cycle.

[0081] For example, reducing the heating power to 50% (125W) and operating intermittently with a cycle of t on (e.g., 10 seconds to activate) and t off (e.g., shut down after 50 seconds), and continue for the total duration (t_total).

[0082] In this embodiment, the method may further include: controlling the humidifier's fan to operate according to a preset working mode, and reducing the fan speed or pausing the fan's operation when the water temperature in the water circulation system is detected to reach the preset temperature threshold. In this embodiment, the water temperature can also be indirectly affected by controlling the fan speed and / or operating time. For example, when the water temperature is detected to reach the target temperature (i.e., the preset temperature threshold), the fan speed is reduced or the fan operation is paused, thereby slowing heat loss and maintaining the water temperature.

[0083] In addition, the coordinated operation time of the heating element and the fan can be preset to ensure that the water temperature is maintained within the preset range.

[0084] In this embodiment, the process of circulating and heating water in the water circulation system may further include: controlling the circulation speed of the water in the water circulation system through a fixed flow valve; and / or adjusting the heat exchange efficiency of the water circulation system by controlling the flow rate of the water pump. In this embodiment, considering that the calculation of water volume can be equivalently replaced by the flow rate of the water pump (i.e., pump flow rate), a mathematical relationship between the pump flow rate and the heating power can be established:

[0085] Flow rate Q (L / h) ≤ (P×3600) / (c×ΔT×ρ);

[0086] Where c = 4186 J / kg·℃, ρ = 1 kg / L, and ΔT is the target temperature rise.

[0087] For example, if a 5°C temperature rise needs to be maintained, the maximum flow rate is approximately 250×3600 / (4186×5)≈43L / h. The circulation speed can be limited by a fixed flow valve so that the water can obtain sufficient heat when it flows through the PTC element.

[0088] Specifically, the heat exchange efficiency in the water circuit can be adjusted by controlling the water pump flow rate. For example, when the water temperature needs to be increased, the water pump flow rate can be reduced, thereby increasing the residence time of the water near the heating element. Alternatively, when the water temperature needs to be maintained, the water pump flow rate can be increased, thereby promoting a more uniform distribution of heat.

[0089] Alternatively, the heating power of the heating element can be kept at a fixed value (e.g., 250W) based on the water pump flow control. Simultaneously, the corresponding heating time and cycle time can be set according to the interaction between the water pump flow and the heating power, which can be controlled by timing (e.g., using a timer).

[0090] The specific heat exchange efficiency control process is as follows: First, obtain the water pump flow rate (Q), which is the amount of water circulating per unit time (unit: liters / second); heating power (P), which is the fixed power of the heating element; target temperature difference (ΔT), which is the difference between the preset temperature and the initial temperature; and specific heat capacity (c) of 4.18 J / g·℃.

[0091] Next, calculate the heating time (t):

[0092]

[0093] The water volume (m) can be calculated using flow rate and time: m = Q·t;

[0094] Finally, maintain the water level and adjust the pump flow rate to control heat exchange efficiency.

[0095] For more detailed processing procedures of steps S21 to S23, please refer to the relevant content disclosed in the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0096] As can be seen, in this embodiment of the application, the entire humidifier heating and sterilization control process is divided into two heating stages. The first heating stage (rapid heating) is based on the preset heating power and preset heating time determined by the water volume. The second heating stage (maintenance stage) is to maintain the water temperature within a preset temperature range, thereby achieving a better sterilization effect.

[0097] By using a preset temperature change curve and staged heating control (such as initial high power for rapid heating and subsequent low power to maintain temperature), and by controlling the water temperature of the water system within the effective sterilization range (such as 60℃~80℃) for a specified duration, the sterilization effect can be improved. The high temperature duration is sufficient to inactivate common pathogens (such as Escherichia coli and mold spores), which meets hygiene standards.

[0098] This application also discloses a humidifier, comprising: a water volume sensor for detecting the current water volume of the humidifier, the current water volume including at least the water volume of the humidifier water tank; a memory for determining a preset heating power and a preset heating time corresponding to the current water volume; and a control circuit for controlling a heating element to circulate and heat the water in the water circulation system of the humidifier according to the preset heating power, and to ensure that the heating time of the heating element reaches the preset heating time; the water circulation system includes the humidifier water tank, an external water path of the water tank, and a water path for a wettable substrate; the heating element is disposed in the water circulation system of the humidifier. This humidifier can achieve effective sterilization, and furthermore, it eliminates the need for independent sterilization elements such as bactericides or ultraviolet sterilization, thus reducing power consumption and consumables.

[0099] Furthermore, embodiments of this application also disclose an electronic device, Figure 4 This is a structural diagram of an electronic device 20 according to an exemplary embodiment. The content of the diagram should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application.

[0100] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device 20 provided in an embodiment of this application. Specifically, the electronic device 20 may include: at least one processor 21, at least one memory 22, a power supply 23, a communication interface 24, an input / output interface 25, and a communication bus 26. The memory 22 stores a computer program, which is loaded and executed by the processor 21 to implement the relevant steps in the humidifier heating control method disclosed in any of the foregoing embodiments. Alternatively, the electronic device 20 in this embodiment may specifically be a computer.

[0101] In this embodiment, the power supply 23 is used to provide operating voltage for each hardware device on the electronic device 20; the communication interface 24 can create a data transmission channel between the electronic device 20 and external devices, and the communication protocol it follows can be any communication protocol applicable to the technical solution of this application, and is not specifically limited here; the input / output interface 25 is used to acquire external input data or output data to the outside world, and its specific interface type can be selected according to specific application needs, and is not specifically limited here.

[0102] In addition, the memory 22, as a carrier for resource storage, can be a read-only memory, random access memory, disk or optical disk, etc. The resources stored thereon can include operating system 221, computer program 222, etc., and the storage method can be temporary storage or permanent storage.

[0103] The operating system 221 is used to manage and control the various hardware devices on the electronic device 20 and the computer program 222, which may be Windows Server, Netware, Unix, Linux, etc. In addition to including a computer program capable of performing the humidifier heating control method executed by the electronic device 20 as disclosed in any of the foregoing embodiments, the computer program 222 may further include computer programs capable of performing other specific tasks.

[0104] Furthermore, this application also discloses a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program; wherein, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the aforementioned humidifier heating control method. Specific steps of this method can be found in the corresponding content disclosed in the foregoing embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0105] Furthermore, embodiments of this application also disclose a computer program product, including a computer program / instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implement the steps of the humidifier heating control method disclosed above.

[0106] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on its differences from other embodiments. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. For the apparatus disclosed in the embodiments, since it corresponds to the method disclosed in the embodiments, the description is relatively simple; relevant parts can be referred to in the method section.

[0107] Those skilled in the art will further recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, the components and steps of the various examples have been generally described in terms of functionality in the foregoing description. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0108] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented directly by hardware, a software module executed by a processor, or a combination of both. The software module can be located in random access memory (RAM), main memory, read-only memory (ROM), electrically programmable ROM, electrically erasable programmable ROM, registers, hard disk, removable disk, CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art.

[0109] Finally, it should be noted that in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0110] The above provides a detailed description of a humidifier heating control method, apparatus, device, and storage medium provided in this application. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The descriptions of the above embodiments are only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this application. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of this application. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

Claims

1. A humidifier heating control method, characterized in that, include: Detect the current water level of the humidifier, wherein the current water level includes at least the water level in the humidifier's water tank; Determine the preset heating power and preset heating duration corresponding to the current water volume; The heating element is controlled to circulate and heat the water in the water circulation system of the humidifier according to the preset heating power, and the heating time of the heating element reaches the preset heating duration. The water circulation system includes the humidifier water tank, the external water passage of the water tank, and the water passage of the wettable substrate; The heating element is located in the water circulation system of the humidifier.

2. The humidifier heating control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Determining the preset heating power and preset heating duration corresponding to the current water volume includes: Obtain the preset heating power and preset heating duration corresponding to the heating element in the humidifier and the current water volume from the preset schedule; The preset time schedule is a table showing the correspondence between different heating times and heating power, created based on a preset temperature change curve; the preset temperature change curve is a curve showing the change of water temperature with heating time under different water volumes and corresponding preset heating powers. The preset heating time is the time it takes for the water temperature in the water circulation system to reach a preset temperature threshold, which is determined in advance based on different water volumes and corresponding preset heating power.

3. The humidifier heating control method according to claim 2, characterized in that, Before detecting the current water volume of the humidifier, the method also includes: Collect water temperature values ​​of different types of heating elements under different water volumes and multiple initial heating powers, and generate the water temperature value change curve with the initial heating time to obtain the initial temperature change curve; When user feedback on water temperature is received, the heating parameters in the initial temperature change curve are adjusted based on the feedback and using a thermal balance model to obtain the preset temperature change curve of the corresponding heating element; the heating parameters include the initial heating power and the initial heating duration.

4. The humidifier heating control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, After the preset heating time is reached, the process further includes: The heating element is controlled to continue heating the water in the water circulation system in order to maintain the water temperature in the water circulation system within a preset temperature range.

5. The humidifier heating control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, Maintaining the water temperature within the water circulation system within a preset temperature range includes: The heating element is controlled by pulse heating technology and the target heating power is used to heat the water in the water circulation system to maintain the water temperature in the current water circulation system within a preset temperature range; the target heating power is less than the preset heating power.

6. The humidifier heating control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process of circulating and heating water in the water circulation system also includes: When a decrease in the water volume within the water circulation system is detected, the current water volume within the water circulation system is determined to obtain the real-time water volume. Calculate the difference between the real-time water capacity and the current water volume, and the ratio of the difference to the preset capacity; Calculate the product of the ratio and the preset compensation time, and shorten the preset heating time based on the product; Alternatively, when a drop in the water level is detected in the water circulation system, the current water level in the water circulation system is determined to obtain the real-time water level; Calculate the difference between the real-time water level and the current water level, and the ratio of the difference to the preset water level; Calculate the product of the ratio and the preset compensation time, and shorten the preset heating time based on the product.

7. The humidifier heating control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The humidifier's fan is controlled to operate according to a preset working mode, and when the temperature of the water in the water circulation system is detected to reach the preset temperature threshold, the fan speed is reduced or the fan operation is stopped.

8. The humidifier heating control method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The process of circulating and heating water in the water circulation system also includes: The circulation speed of water in the water circulation system is controlled by a fixed flow valve; And / or, the heat exchange efficiency of the water circuit in the water circulation system is adjusted by controlling the flow rate of the water pump.

9. A humidifier, characterized in that, include: A water level sensor is used to detect the current water level of the humidifier, wherein the current water level includes at least the water level in the humidifier's water tank. A memory is used to determine the preset heating power and preset heating duration corresponding to the current water volume; A control circuit is used to control the heating element to circulate and heat the water in the water circulation system of the humidifier according to the preset heating power, and to make the heating time of the heating element reach the preset heating duration; The water circulation system includes the humidifier water tank, the external water passage of the water tank, and the water passage of the wettable substrate; The heating element is located in the water circulation system of the humidifier.

10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, Used to store a computer program; wherein, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the humidifier heating control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.