Electric water heater

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of water heaters, and provides an electric water heater which comprises a box body, a high liquid level probe, a low liquid level probe, a liquid level emission probe and a controller, and a liquid storage space is formed in the box body; the low-liquid-level probe is arranged below the high-liquid-level probe, and the low-liquid-level probe is configured to be capable of switching between the modes of the electronic anode and the liquid level detection component; the liquid level emission probe is flush with the low liquid level probe or is positioned below the low liquid level probe; the high-liquid-level probe, the low-liquid-level probe and the liquid-level emission probe are all in communication connection with the controller, and the controller can control the low-liquid-level probe to be switched among different modes. According to the utility model, the low liquid level probe is configured to be the electronic anode and the liquid level detection part, so that the two-in-one function of the electronic anode and the liquid level detection function is realized, the number of parts in the box body is reduced, the space occupied by the parts in the box body is reduced, the production cost is reduced, and a control system is simplified.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of water heaters, in particular to an electric water heater. Background Art

[0002] An electric water heater is a common household hot water device that heats tap water or water with suitable quality to a set temperature for daily use by electric heating.

[0003] Among them, a relatively typical electric water heating device consists of a water tank, a heating element, and a safety protection device. It mainly supplies daily use by heating the water in the water tank and storing the hot water. To ensure the safe use of the water heater, a liquid level sensing probe and an electronic anode component for preventing corrosion of the inner tank of the water heater are provided in the water tank. This method results in more components inside the water tank, occupying more internal space of the tank body, and more control components connected to the controller, leading to a complex control circuit. Summary of the Utility Model

[0004] The utility model provides an electric water heater to solve the defects in the prior art that there are many internal components in the electric water heating device, occupying more internal space of the tank body and having a complex control circuit.

[0005] The utility model provides an electric water heater, including:

[0006] A tank body, which forms a liquid storage space;

[0007] A high liquid level probe for detecting the liquid level in the upper part of the liquid storage space;

[0008] A low liquid level probe is arranged below the high liquid level probe, and the low liquid level probe is configured to switch between the modes of an electronic anode and a liquid level detection component;

[0009] A liquid level emission probe is arranged in the liquid storage space and is flush with or below the low liquid level probe. The liquid level emission probe is used to conduct with the high liquid level probe or the low liquid level probe to form a loop to realize the liquid level detection of their respective positions;

[0010] A controller, and the high liquid level probe, the low liquid level probe, and the liquid level emission probe are all communicatively connected to the controller;

[0011] Among them, an AD sampling module and an electronic anode driving module are electrically connected to the controller, and the low liquid level probe can be selectively electrically connected to the AD sampling module and the electronic anode driving module.

[0012] According to the electric water heater provided by the present utility model, the electric water heater further includes a function switching module, which is arranged on the conduction circuit between the controller and the low liquid level probe, and the function switching module is used to switch the output mode.

[0013] According to the electric water heater provided by the present utility model, the controller, the AD sampling module and the electronic anode driving module are integrated onto a control main board.

[0014] According to the electric water heater provided by the present utility model, when the low liquid level probe is configured as an electronic anode, the working voltage of the low liquid level probe is 1.7V - 2.1V.

[0015] According to the electric water heater provided by the present utility model, when the low liquid level probe is configured as an electronic anode, the working voltage of the low liquid level probe is 1.9V.

[0016] According to the electric water heater provided by the present utility model, the electric water heater further includes a liquid level detection signal sending module, which is electrically connected to the liquid level transmitting probe and the controller, and the liquid level detection signal is used to send a liquid level signal.

[0017] According to the electric water heater provided by the present utility model, the electric water heater further includes a water replenishing module, which is electrically connected to the controller, and the water replenishing module is used to control the water replenishing waterway to communicate with the box body.

[0018] According to the electric water heater provided by the present utility model, the water replenishing module includes a constant temperature water replenishing valve, and the water replenishing waterway is connected to the box body through the constant temperature water replenishing valve.

[0019] According to the electric water heater provided by the present utility model, the high liquid level probe, the low liquid level probe and the liquid level transmitting probe are all arranged at the upper part of the liquid storage space.

[0020] According to the electric water heater provided by the present utility model, the low liquid level probe includes a titanium alloy probe.

[0021] An electric water heater provided by the present utility model realizes the integration of the electronic anode and the liquid level detection function by configuring the low liquid level probe as the electronic anode and the liquid level detection component, simplifies the number of internal components of the box body, reduces the occupation of the space inside the box body by the components, reduces the production cost, and simplifies the control system. Description of the Drawings

[0022] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the present utility model or the prior art, the following will briefly introduce the drawings required for the description of the embodiments or the prior art. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are some embodiments of the present utility model. For those of ordinary skill in the art, without creative efforts, other drawings can also be obtained based on these drawings.

[0023] Figure 1 It is a schematic structural diagram of an electric water heater provided by the present utility model.

[0024] Figure 2 It is a schematic connection diagram of the control main board in the electric water heater provided by the present utility model.

[0025] Figure 3 It is a schematic flow diagram of the control method of the electric water heater of the present utility model.

[0026] Figure 4 It is a schematic logical flow diagram of the control method of the electric water heater of the present utility model.

[0027] Reference numerals:

[0028] 10, box body; 11, liquid storage space; 20, high-level probe; 30, low-level probe; 40, liquid level emission probe; 50, heater; 60, heat exchanger; 70, control main board; 71, controller; 72, function switching module; 73, low-level AD sampling module; 74, electronic anode drive module; 75, liquid level detection signal emission module; 76, high-level AD sampling module. Detailed implementation manners

[0029] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of the present utility model clearer, the following will clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the present utility model in conjunction with the drawings in the present utility model. Obviously, the described embodiments are some embodiments of the present utility model, rather than all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative efforts fall within the scope of protection of the present utility model.

[0030] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, it should be noted that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by the terms "center", "longitudinal", "transverse", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc. is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings. It is only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present application and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the embodiments of the present application. In addition, the terms "first", "second", and "third" are only used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0031] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, it should be noted that unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "connected to" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of the present application can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0032] In the embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the first feature being "on" or "under" the second feature may be that the first and second features are in direct contact, or the first and second features are indirectly in contact through an intermediate medium. Moreover, the first feature being "above", "over" and "on top of" the second feature may be that the first feature is directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or merely indicates that the first feature has a higher horizontal height than the second feature. The first feature being "under", "beneath" and "underneath" the second feature may be that the first feature is directly below or obliquely below the second feature, or merely indicates that the first feature has a lower horizontal height than the second feature.

[0033] In the description of this specification, the description referring to terms such as "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "example", "specific example", or "some examples" means that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments of the present application. In this specification, the schematic representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described can be combined in a suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and combine the different embodiments or examples described in this specification and the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0034] An electric water heater is a common household hot water device that heats tap water or water with suitable quality to a set temperature by means of electric heating for daily use. It usually consists of a water tank and one or more heaters. In daily use, in order to prevent the water tank from dry burning and for safety considerations, a safety protection component is usually provided to be able to make up water in time to prevent dry burning.

[0035] In the related art, in order to ensure the safe use of the water heater, a liquid level sensing probe and an electronic anode component for preventing corrosion of the inner tank of the water heater are provided in the water tank as a safety protection component to achieve protection. This makes it necessary to separately set an electronic anode component and a liquid level sensing probe component in the liquid storage space to realize the real-time detection of the liquid level and the protection state of anode anti-corrosion. This results in more components in the water tank and requires connecting separate lines to achieve control, leading to a more complex control system.

[0036] In view of the problems in the related art, such as Figure 1 - Figure 2 As shown, the present utility model provides an electric water heater, including a box body 10, a high liquid level probe 20, a low liquid level probe 30, a liquid level emission probe 40 and a controller 71. The box body 10 forms a liquid storage space 11; the high liquid level probe 20 is used to detect the liquid level in the upper part of the liquid storage space 11; the low liquid level probe 30 is arranged below the high liquid level probe 20, and the low liquid level probe 30 is configured to be able to switch between the modes of an electronic anode and a liquid level detection component; the liquid level emission probe 40 is arranged in the liquid storage space 11 and is flush with or below the low liquid level probe 30, and the liquid level emission probe 40 is used to form a loop with the high liquid level probe 20 or the low liquid level probe 30 to realize the liquid level detection at their respective positions; the high liquid level probe 20, the low liquid level probe 30 and the liquid level emission probe 40 are all communicatively connected to the controller 71. Among them, an AD sampling module and an electronic anode driving module 74 are electrically connected to the controller 71, and the low liquid level probe 30 can be selectively electrically connected to the AD sampling module and the electronic anode driving module 74. The water tank of the electric water heater is used to store a heat exchange medium, and the efficient heat exchange of cold water is realized by heating the heat exchange medium. In this embodiment, by configuring three probes in the water tank and configuring the low liquid level probe 30 at the low liquid level as an electronic anode or a liquid level detection component, the demand switching between the electronic anode and the liquid level detection is realized under different scenario requirements, reducing the number of component arrangements and simplifying the control system.

[0037] Specifically, in terms of structure, both the high liquid level probe 20 and the low liquid level probe 30 are arranged in the upper region of the liquid storage space 11. The low liquid level probe 30 is located below the high liquid level probe 20, and the liquid level emission probe 40 is not higher than the low liquid level probe 30, so as to realize conduction connection with the liquid level emission probe 40 when the low liquid level probe 30 and the high liquid level probe 20 need to perform liquid level detection to form a loop, thereby realizing the detection of the liquid level. When specifically setting, such as Figure 1As described above, a heat exchanger 60 with a spiral structure is provided inside the box body 10, and a heater 50 is provided at the bottom of the box body 10. The low liquid level probe 30 and the liquid level transmitting probe 40 are arranged in parallel, that is, the low liquid level probe 30 and the liquid level transmitting probe 40 are on the same liquid level surface.

[0038] It can be understood that in some principles of liquid level detection, a reference point and a position detection point are usually required. In this embodiment, both the high liquid level probe 20 and the low liquid level probe 30 can be used as position detection points, and the liquid level transmitting probe 40 is used as the reference point. The reference point is a fixed point, and when it is conducted with the high liquid level probe 20 and the low liquid level probe 30, an electric circuit can be formed. When the liquid level changes, the signal of the position detection point will reflect the height of the liquid level. The controller 71 monitors and adjusts the liquid level in real time according to the relationship between this signal and the reference point.

[0039] Generally speaking, an electric water heater has two working states. One is the state when the heater 50 in the electric water heater is working. Initially, it is necessary to detect whether there is enough heat exchange medium in the liquid storage space 11. At this time, the low liquid level probe 30 is configured as a liquid level detection component, so that the liquid level in the liquid storage space 11 can be detected. When the detected liquid level is lower than the low liquid level probe 30, it means that the heat exchange medium in the water tank is insufficient and needs to be replenished in time until the high liquid level probe 20 detects the corresponding signal. At this time, it means that there is enough heat exchange medium in the water tank, so that the heater 50 can be turned on for heating. After the heating is turned on, the function of anti-corrosion in the water tank needs to be realized. At this time, the low liquid level probe 30 is configured as an electronic anode, so as to realize the protection of the water tank.

[0040] The other is the state when the heater 50 is in a non-heating state in daily life. At this time, liquid level detection is not required, the liquid level transmitting probe 40 is turned off, and the low liquid level probe 30 is configured as an electronic anode, so as to realize the protection of the water tank against corrosion. That is, before the heater 50 of the electric water heater is turned on for work, the low liquid level probe 30 needs to be configured as a liquid level detection component, and in other states, it can be configured as an electronic anode mode to realize the multi-functional use of the low liquid level probe 30, reduce the cost of the electric water heater, and simplify the control system.

[0041] Specifically, the low liquid level probe 30 is a probe made of titanium alloy material, which has excellent corrosion resistance, good strength and high temperature resistance, so that the two functions of the liquid level detection component and the electronic anode can be realized, reducing the number of components in the water tank and simplifying the control system.

[0042] In some specific embodiments, the low liquid level probe 30, the high liquid level probe 20, and the liquid level emission probe 40 are all located in the upper part of the liquid storage space 11. The low liquid level probe 30 is located below the high liquid level probe 20, so as to enable the detection of a lower liquid level. Such a setting makes it possible to further prevent dry burning and improve safety performance even when the liquid level is lower than the low liquid level probe 30, as the overall liquid level still has a certain height.

[0043] It should be known that in this embodiment, both the high liquid level probe 20 and the low liquid level probe 30 are arranged in the liquid storage space 11, and the high and low levels of the liquid level are relative to the storage limit of the liquid storage space 11. Therefore, the references of the high liquid level probe 20 and the low liquid level probe 30 are clear. The high liquid level probe 20 refers to being close to the storage limit of the liquid storage space 11, and the low liquid level probe 30 refers to being far from the storage limit of the liquid storage space 11.

[0044] In the specific implementation manner, for the switching between the two modes in this embodiment, a mechanical structure can be adopted to selectively connect different modules. For example, it can be a periodic connection using a timer, or as long as heating occurs, at this time, based on the linkage control of a mechanical switch, the switching of each mode can be realized, and a relay or a switch circuit can also be used to realize the mode switching. That is, for those skilled in the art, they can realize the switching of different functions through specific mechanical structures or circuit connection structures, and achieve the linkage switching in different scenarios.

[0045] In some embodiments provided by the present invention, the electric water heater further includes a function switching module 72. The function switching module 72 is arranged on the conduction circuit between the controller 71 and the low liquid level probe 30, and the function switching module 72 is used to switch the output mode. The switching of the low liquid level probe 30 between different modes can be achieved in various ways. In this embodiment, by configuring the hardware of the function switching module 72, the switching of different functions can be realized, which can simplify the control design and has high flexibility.

[0046] When the low liquid level probe 30 is switched differently, the switching between different modes can be achieved through software configuration or by means of an embedded system. In this embodiment, by setting the function switching module 72, through modular design, the complexity of the overall system is reduced, which is convenient for maintenance and upgrading. Modules can be added or replaced conveniently to realize new functions and support the long-term iteration of the system.

[0047] Specifically, the low liquid level probe 30 is connected to the controller 71 through a wire or other conduction circuits, and the function switching module 72 is arranged between the two. The controller 71 can output a control signal to control the conduction of different circuits under different requirements.

[0048] During specific settings, a switch circuit or a relay can be set inside the function switching module 72, which can be selectively connected or disconnected from different functional units according to control signals. For example, when it needs to be configured as a liquid level detection component, the controller 71 outputs a specific voltage or other electrical signals, enabling the function switching module 72 to be connected to the AD sampling module and form a loop with the liquid level transmitting probe 40, thereby realizing liquid level detection. Similarly, when it needs to realize the function of the electronic anode, the controller 71 outputs another specific voltage or other electrical signals, enabling the function switching module 72 to be connected to the electronic anode unit under the action of the control signal and configuring it as an electronic anode. Of course, it can also be that the microcontroller 71 or PLC issues control signals to instruct the function switching module 72 to activate specific connections. For example, if data acquisition is required, the signal is directed to the detection function unit; if the function of the electronic anode needs to be realized, it is connected to the electronic anode function unit.

[0049] As can be seen from the above, the function switching module 72 in this embodiment can effectively realize mode switching and can be quickly switched under the control of the controller 71, thereby having a good response speed and being able to improve the accuracy of control. It should be understood that in different modes, the corresponding peripheral circuits are different, and for the detection circuit of the liquid level detection component and the functional circuit when configured as an electronic anode, they can both be circuits in the existing conventional technologies. Therefore, they will not be elaborated here.

[0050] In the embodiment provided by the present invention, an AD sampling module and an electronic anode driving module 74 are electrically connected to the function switching module 72. Both the AD sampling module and the electronic anode driving module 74 are electrically connected to the controller 71. The function switching module 72 is used to switch the electrical connection between the low liquid level probe 30 and the AD sampling module or between the low liquid level probe 30 and the electronic anode driving module 74. The modular design facilitates the configuration and connection of components, with higher design flexibility, expandability, and maintainability.

[0051] It can be understood that the AD sampling module and the electronic anode driving module 74 can realize different functions. Among them, when connected to the AD sampling module, voltage measurement can be realized at this time, and combined with the liquid level transmitting probe 40 to form a liquid level detection component to realize the detection of the liquid level. When in the electronic anode driving module 74, the low liquid level probe 30 can be configured as an electronic anode, thereby realizing the anti-corrosion of the water tank.

[0052] In a specific example, the high-level probe 20 is connected to a high-level AD sampling module 76. The high-level AD sampling module 76 is electrically connected to the controller 71. The high-level AD sampling module 76 is configured to convert the analog liquid level signal obtained from the high-level probe 20 into a digital signal for subsequent processing. It is electrically connected to the low-level probe 30 to form a liquid level detection circuit, and realizes real-time acquisition of the liquid level under the control of the controller.

[0053] In some embodiments, the controller 71, the AD sampling module, and the electronic anode driving module 74 are integrated onto a control main board 70. Integrating the modules with the controller can reduce the overall occupied space, enabling the water heater to have a larger heating space.

[0054] It can be understood that different areas are set on the control main board 70 to set different modules and the controller 71, facilitating addition and subtraction according to functions during modular design. The overall layout can make the overall occupied space of the device smaller.

[0055] Specifically, after being integrated onto the control main board 70, each component is electrically connected in a patterned manner, which reduces the number of external wires and components, saves space, improves the compactness of the system, and facilitates batch production.

[0056] In the embodiments provided by the present invention, when the low-level probe 30 is configured as an electronic anode, the operating voltage of the low-level probe 30 is 1.7V - 2.1V. Limiting the operating voltage of the low-level probe 30 to 1.7V - 2.1V can improve energy efficiency, making it have high energy efficiency.

[0057] In a preferred example, the operating voltage of the low-level probe 30 is 1.9V. At this operating voltage, it can achieve better energy efficiency control and provide a stable and reliable output signal.

[0058] Specifically, when serving as an electronic anode, the operating voltage of the low-level probe 30 is relatively low. The relatively low operating voltage can reduce power consumption, thereby improving energy efficiency. Working within this voltage range can reduce noise interference, improve the stability and reliability of the signal, and the low-voltage design often requires fewer complex circuits and components, reducing the design difficulty and cost.

[0059] In an embodiment provided by the present utility model, the electric water heater further includes a liquid level detection signal sending module, which is electrically connected to the liquid level transmitting probe 40 and the controller 71. The liquid level detection signal is used to send the liquid level detection signal. The liquid level transmitting probe 40 is connected to the controller 71 through the liquid level detection signal sending module. When liquid level detection is required, it needs to be connected and conducted with the liquid level transmitting probe 40 to realize the detection of the liquid level. In this embodiment, through the liquid level detection signal sending module, the sending of liquid level detection information can be realized, and the detected signal can be processed to realize the detection of the liquid level.

[0060] Specifically, the liquid level transmitting probe 40 serves as the liquid level detection base point and is in direct contact with the liquid in the liquid storage space 11. It can generate corresponding analog signals (such as voltage or current) according to the change of the liquid level, reflecting the height of the liquid level. After the probe outputs the signal, the signal modulation circuit amplifies, filters, and converts the original signal to improve the stability and accuracy of the signal, ensuring that the signal is suitable for subsequent processing. These signals are sent to the controller 71 after being processed by the liquid level detection signal sending module, and the real-time monitoring of the liquid level is realized through the low liquid level AD sampling module 73 or the high liquid level AD sampling module 76 that is conducted with it.

[0061] In some embodiments provided by the present utility model, the electric water heater further includes a water replenishing module, which is electrically connected to the controller 71. The water replenishing module is used to control the connection between the water replenishing waterway and the box body 10. During the long-term use of the electric water heater, it is necessary to heat the heat exchange medium to realize the heating of the water used. This causes the heat exchange medium (such as water) to gradually decrease under the action of the heater 50. In order to maintain a good liquid level in the liquid storage space 11, in this embodiment, the water replenishing module is used to replenish the liquid storage space 11 in the box body 10, avoiding situations such as dry burning and improving the overall safety.

[0062] In the specific implementation manner, water is stored in the liquid storage space 11 as the heat exchange medium, and a water replenishing module is connected to the liquid storage space 11. The water replenishing module can be a water replenishing system, that is, a water replenishing pipeline connected to the outside and an electric control valve is provided on the water replenishing pipeline. The electric control valve is electrically connected to the controller 71. This enables the connection or closing of the water replenishing pipeline to be realized under the control of the controller 71. When water replenishment is required, the electric control valve is opened to input water into the liquid storage space 11 to complete the water replenishment operation. When the water replenishment reaches the preset position (it can be when the high liquid level probe 20 detects the liquid level signal), the water replenishing pipeline is closed to control the amount of water replenished.

[0063] It can be understood that when the electric water heater heats water, it is necessary to ensure that there is enough heat exchange medium in the liquid storage space 11 to enable effective heat exchange and prevent the dry burning of the electric water heater, which may cause damage to the electric water heater. In this embodiment, when the low-level probe 30 detects that the water level is lower than this position, the water replenishment operation can be carried out in time, thus preventing the dry burning of the electric water heater and improving the safety performance of the equipment.

[0064] In some embodiments, the water replenishment module includes a constant-temperature water replenishment valve, and the water replenishment water path is connected to the box body 10 through the constant-temperature water replenishment valve. The constant-temperature water replenishment valve is used to input water replenishment into the liquid storage space 11 when needed. In this embodiment, through the setting of the constant-temperature water replenishment valve, the inlet water can be maintained at a preset working temperature, preventing the water temperature in the liquid storage space 11 from fluctuating too much.

[0065] Specifically, a water replenishment pipeline is provided outside the electric water heater, and a constant-temperature water replenishment valve is provided on the water replenishment pipeline. The constant-temperature water replenishment valve can adjust the water replenishment temperature, reduce the energy consumption of heating, achieve energy conservation, and through the function of the constant-temperature water replenishment valve, the water replenishment temperature is maintained within a relatively optimal temperature range, which can improve the operation efficiency and stability of the system.

[0066] In a further example, the constant-temperature water replenishment valve is electrically connected to the controller 71, and the controller 71 can issue a control signal based on a preset strategy to control the opening and closing of the constant-temperature water replenishment valve.

[0067] For example, before starting the heater 50 in the electric water heater, it is necessary to detect the liquid level height of the heat exchange medium in the current liquid storage space 11. When the liquid level height is lower than the low-level probe 30, a water replenishment operation is required. At this time, the controller 71 issues a control signal based on the detection data collected by the low-level probe 30 to control the constant-temperature water replenishment valve to open, so that the water replenishment is input into the liquid storage space 11 through the constant-temperature water replenishment valve, realizing the water replenishment operation for the liquid storage space 11, thereby ensuring that the heat exchange medium in the liquid replenishment space has a safe liquid level. In this way, automatic water replenishment can be achieved, and the low-level probe 30 can be configured as a liquid level detection component to realize the feedback of liquid level detection and signal acquisition, thus realizing timely water replenishment.

[0068] As Figure 3 、 Figure 4 shown, the present utility model also provides a control method for an electric water heater adopting any one of the above, including the following steps:

[0069] S10. Determine whether it is necessary to start the heater 50 in the electric water heater and output a first determination result. The main controller 71 receives the current operation information to determine whether heating is required. When the first determination result is to start the heater 50, steps S20 - S22 are executed; when the first determination result is not to start the heater 50, step S30 is executed.

[0070]

[0070] When it is necessary to start the heater 50, the low-level probe 30 is configured as a liquid level detection component to determine whether the current liquid level reaches a preset liquid level and output a second judgment result. Before starting the water heater, it is necessary to determine whether the liquid level is at a preset safe position. At this time, it is necessary to detect and judge through the low-level probe 30 to enable liquid level detection. The controller 71 outputs judgment information based on the detection result.

[0071] Specifically, before starting the electric water heater, the low-level probe 30 is configured as a liquid level detection component, and the liquid level height in the current liquid storage space 11 is detected, and a judgment result on whether the liquid level is greater than the preset liquid level is output. When specifically setting, for safe heating of the electric water heater, it is necessary to detect whether the current liquid level meets the requirements of the preset liquid level before starting the heater 50. At this time, the function switching module 72 is configured so that the low-level probe 30 is connected to the AD sampling module and forms a detection circuit with the low-level transmitting probe 40, thereby realizing the detection of whether the liquid level in the current liquid storage space 11 is higher than the low-level probe 30.

[0072]

[0072] When the second judgment result is that the current liquid level is greater than the preset liquid level, control the electric water heater to heat, configure the low-level probe 30 as an electronic anode, and control the working voltage of the low-level probe 30 to approach the preset voltage. The output result of "yes" indicates that the current liquid level is greater than the preset liquid level. At this time, it indicates that there is enough liquid level in the liquid storage space 11 to enable effective heating. At this time, it is configured as an electronic anode to provide an anti-corrosion effect.

[0073] Specifically, after the main controller 71 receives the liquid level feedback information of the low-level probe 30, it indicates that the liquid level height in the liquid storage space 11 is not lower than the height of the low-level probe 30 at this time. At this time, the heater 50 can be turned on for heating. Correspondingly, the low-level probe 30 is connected to the electronic anode driving module 74 through the function switching module 72 under the control of the controller 71, so that the low-level probe 30 is configured as an electronic anode, realizing the anti-corrosion function of the low-level probe 30.

[0074]

[0074] When the judgment result is that the current liquid level is less than or equal to the preset liquid level, control the water replenishment waterway to perform a water replenishment operation on the liquid storage space 11 until the high-level probe 20 detects a liquid level signal; then control the electric water heater to heat, configure the low-level probe 30 as an electronic anode, and control the working voltage of the low-level probe 30 to approach the preset voltage. When the low-level probe 30 feeds back no liquid level information, it indicates that the liquid level of the heat transfer medium in the storage space is insufficient and a water replenishment operation needs to be performed. At this time, the water replenishment operation is realized through the water replenishment waterway. After the high-level probe 20 detects the liquid level information, it indicates that there is enough liquid level in the liquid storage space 11 for heating. At this time, the heater 50 can be turned on, and the low-level probe 30 is configured as an electronic anode to realize the anti-corrosion function.

[0075] Specifically, the controller 71 first realizes liquid level detection through the liquid level detection circuit formed by the low liquid level probe 30 and the liquid level emission probe 40. When no liquid level is detected, it indicates that the liquid level is lower than the position where the low liquid level probe 30 is located at this time. The controller 71 sends a water replenishment instruction to the water replenishment module. The water replenishment module can process the instruction and control the constant temperature water replenishment valve to open, and can realize constant temperature water replenishment. When the water replenishment liquid level is at the high liquid level probe 20, the high liquid level probe 20 will send a feedback signal, and the controller 71 can send an instruction to stop water replenishment. During the entire water replenishment process, the low liquid level probe 30 can be turned off so that the high liquid level probe 20 and the liquid level emission probe 40 are connected to form a liquid level detection circuit, which can feedback liquid level information when the liquid level reaches the high liquid level probe 20 and stop water replenishment. The low liquid level probe 30 is switched to the electronic anode mode through the function switching module 72 after the water replenishment is completed, so as to realize the anti-corrosion function.

[0076] S30. When the first judgment result is not to start the heater 50, turn off the liquid level emission probe 40, configure the low liquid level probe 30 as an electronic anode, and control the working voltage of the low liquid level probe 30 to approach the preset voltage.

[0077] S40. Configure the low liquid level probe 30 as an electronic anode mode and periodically output a high level for a duration of T1 and a low level for a duration of T2; after outputting the low level for a duration of T2, switch the low liquid level probe 30 to the liquid level AD sampling mode, measure the current potential value U2, and correspondingly adjust the duration of the high level T1 according to the difference between the current potential value U2 and the preset potential value U1, so that U2 is maintained near U1, and the working voltage of the low liquid level probe 30 tends to the preset voltage.

[0078] It can be understood that in steps S30, S21, and S22, it is necessary to control the working voltage of the low liquid level probe 30 to approach the preset voltage, and the method in S40 can be used to maintain the working voltage of the low liquid level probe 30 near the preset voltage.

[0079] Specifically, the time period when the heater 50 does not need to be started is the regular time period, and the main purpose during this time period is to prevent corrosion. Specifically, the controller 71 connects the low-level probe 30 to the electronic anode driving module 74 through the function switching module 72. At this time, the liquid level detection signal sending module is turned off, so that the liquid level transmitting probe 40, the low-level probe 30, and the high-level probe 20 do not form a detection circuit, and thus the liquid level detection is not performed. When connected to the electronic anode driving module 74, it periodically outputs a high level for a duration of T1, and then switches it to be connected to the AD sampling module after a low level duration of T2. At this time, since the liquid level transmitting probe 40 is turned off, no detection circuit will be formed. Instead, the measurement of the current potential value U2 can be achieved through the AD sampling module. The control adjusts the duration of the high level T1 according to the difference between U2 and the preset U1, so as to maintain the best anti-corrosion state.

[0080] For example, when the difference between U2 and the preset U1 is large, the duration of the high level T1 needs to be extended at this time, so that the potential value U2 in the entire detection cycle can be closer to the preset potential value U1, and thus the working voltage of the low-level probe 30 approaches the preset voltage. Of course, when the difference between U2 and the preset U1 is small, the current duration of the high level T1 can be maintained at this time to achieve a better anti-corrosion effect.

[0081] Through the description of the above embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that in each embodiment, by configuring the low-level probe as an electronic anode and a liquid level detection component, the integration of the electronic anode and the liquid level detection function is achieved, simplifying the number of components inside the box, reducing the occupation of the space inside the box by the components, reducing the production cost, and simplifying the control system. Further, through the provided control method, the low-level probe can have a better anti-corrosion effect and can be quickly switched in different modes to achieve automated operation.

[0082] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention and are not intended to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or perform equivalent replacements for some of the technical features; and these modifications or replacements do not make the essence of the corresponding technical solutions deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. An electric water heater, characterized in that, Comprising: A box body, which forms a liquid storage space; A high liquid level probe for detecting the liquid level in the upper part of the liquid storage space; A low liquid level probe, which is arranged below the high liquid level probe, and the low liquid level probe is configured to switch between the modes of an electronic anode and a liquid level detection component; A liquid level emission probe, which is arranged in the liquid storage space and is flush with or below the low liquid level probe, and the liquid level emission probe is used to conduct with the high liquid level probe or the low liquid level probe to form a loop to realize the liquid level detection of their respective positions; A controller, and the high liquid level probe, the low liquid level probe and the liquid level emission probe are all communicatively connected to the controller; Wherein, an AD sampling module and an electronic anode driving module are electrically connected to the controller, and the low liquid level probe can be selectively electrically connected to the AD sampling module and the electronic anode driving module.

2. The electric water heater according to claim 1, wherein The electric water heater further includes a function switching module, which is arranged on the conduction circuit between the controller and the low liquid level probe, and the function switching module is used to switch the output mode.

3. The electric water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller, the AD sampling module and the electronic anode driving module are integrated onto a control main board.

4. The electric water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the low liquid level probe is configured as an electronic anode, the working voltage of the low liquid level probe is 1.7V - 2.1V.

5. The electric water heater according to claim 4, wherein When the low liquid level probe is configured as an electronic anode, the working voltage of the low liquid level probe is 1.9V.

6. The electric water heater according to claim 1, wherein The electric water heater further includes a liquid level detection signal sending module, which is electrically connected to the liquid level emission probe and the controller, and the liquid level detection signal is used to send a liquid level signal.

7. The electric water heater according to claim 1, wherein, The electric water heater further includes a water replenishing module, which is electrically connected to the controller, and the water replenishing module is used to control the connection between the water replenishing waterway and the box body.

8. The electric water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that, The water replenishing module includes a constant temperature water replenishing valve, and the water replenishing waterway is connected to the box body through the constant temperature water replenishing valve.

9. The electric water heater according to claim 1, wherein, The high liquid level probe, the low liquid level probe and the liquid level emission probe are all arranged in the upper part of the liquid storage space.

10. The electric water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The low liquid level probe includes a titanium alloy probe.

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