Power supply control circuit of communication module and household appliance

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model discloses a power supply control circuit of a communication module and a household electrical appliance, the power supply control circuit of the communication module comprises the communication module, a power supply module and a controller, the power supply module is connected with a power supply, the controller is connected with the power supply module, and when the controller inputs a first signal to the power supply module, the power supply module outputs the first signal. The power supply module supplies power to the communication module according to the voltage input by the power supply, and the control module stops outputting the first signal under the condition that a first preset condition is met. The delay power supply unit in the power supply module continues to supply power to the communication module within the first duration when the controller stops outputting the first signal, so that the phenomenon that the communication module cannot realize data transmission due to power failure of the communication module under the condition that the controller stops outputting the first signal suddenly is avoided, and the reliability of the communication module is improved. The delayed power supply unit is arranged to realize delayed power failure of the communication module, and the working reliability of the communication module is improved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of electrical appliances, in particular to a power supply control circuit of a communication module and a household electrical appliance. BACKGROUND

[0002] At present, the requirement for the intelligence of household electrical appliances is higher and higher, and the application popularity of the communication module as a medium for connecting the Internet, household electrical appliances and smart home control is higher and higher.

[0003] However, during the use of household electrical appliances, the communication module cannot realize data transmission, and the working reliability of the communication module is low. CONTENT OF THE UTILITY MODEL

[0004] The embodiment of the present application discloses a power supply control circuit of a communication module and a household electrical appliance, which can reduce the phenomenon that the communication module cannot realize data transmission and improve the working reliability of the communication module.

[0005] The embodiment of the present application discloses a power supply control circuit of a communication module, which comprises:

[0006] a communication module;

[0007] a power supply module connected with a power supply;

[0008] a controller connected with the power supply module, wherein the controller is configured to input a first signal to the power supply module, so that the power supply module supplies power to the communication module according to the voltage input by the power supply, and stop outputting the first signal when a first preset condition is met; and

[0009] the power supply module comprises a delay power supply unit;

[0010] the delay power supply unit is connected with the communication module, and the delay power supply unit is configured to continue to supply power to the communication module within a first time length during which the controller stops outputting the first signal.

[0011] In the embodiment, the power supply control circuit of the communication module comprises the communication module, the power supply module and the controller, the power supply module is connected with the power supply, the controller is connected with the power supply module, the power supply module supplies power to the communication module according to the voltage input by the power supply when the controller inputs the first signal to the power supply module, and the control module stops outputting the first signal when the first preset condition is met. The delay power supply unit in the power supply module continues to supply power to the communication module within the first time length during which the controller stops outputting the first signal, so as to avoid the phenomenon that the communication module cannot realize data transmission due to the power-off of the communication module when the controller suddenly stops outputting the first signal. The delay power supply unit is arranged to realize the delay power-off of the communication module, thereby improving the working reliability of the communication module.

[0012] In some embodiments, the power supply module further comprises a first switch, which is connected with the power supply, the communication module and the controller respectively;

[0013] The first switch is configured to be in a conducting state to turn on a first path between the power supply and the communication module to supply power to the communication module from the power supply when a first signal is received;

[0014] The first switch is further configured to be in a disconnecting state to turn off the first path when the first signal is not received.

[0015] The delay power supply unit is further configured to continue to supply power to the communication module within a first time length during which the first path is turned off.

[0016] In the embodiment, the power supply module comprises the first switch, which is in the conducting state to turn on the first path between the power supply and the communication module to supply power to the communication module from the power supply when the controller outputs the first signal, and is in the disconnecting state to turn off the first path between the power supply and the communication module when the first signal is not received, thereby avoiding the power supply and the delay power supply unit supplying power to the communication module at the same time, avoiding the power supply current of the communication module being too large, and protecting the communication module.

[0017] In some embodiments, the delay power supply unit comprises a capacitor, which is connected with the first switch and the communication module respectively;

[0018] The capacitor is configured to be charged according to a voltage provided by the power supply when the first switch is in the conducting state.

[0019] The capacitor is further configured to discharge to the communication module to supply power to the communication module when the first switch is in the disconnecting state.

[0020] The capacitor is a passive element, and in the embodiment, the delay power supply unit comprises the capacitor, which is connected with the first switch and the communication module respectively, is configured to be charged according to the voltage provided by the power supply when the first switch is in the conducting state, and is configured to discharge to the communication module when the first switch is in the disconnecting state, thereby achieving the power supply to the communication module, and being able to release the stored electric energy from the capacitor to supply power to the communication module when the first path between the power supply and the communication module is turned off, and being able to reduce the energy consumption and cost of the power supply module.

[0021] In some embodiments, the power supply control circuit further comprises a protection unit, which is connected with the first switch and the capacitor respectively;

[0022] The protection unit is in a cut-off state to prevent the current output by the capacitor from flowing to the first switch when the capacitor is discharging.

[0023] In the embodiment, the protection unit is arranged in the power supply module, and is connected with the first switch and the capacitor respectively. When the capacitor is discharging, the protection unit is in a cut-off state to prevent the current output by the capacitor from flowing to the first switch, thereby protecting the power supply.

[0024] In some embodiments, the power supply includes a first power supply and a second power supply, the delay power supply unit includes a time relay connected with the second power supply and the communication module respectively, and the power supply module further includes a second switch connected with the first power supply, the time relay and the controller respectively.

[0025] The second switch is in a conduction state to turn on a path between the time relay and the first power supply to enable the first power supply to provide a power supply signal to the time relay when the first signal is received.

[0026] The time relay is in a conduction state to turn on a path between the second power supply and the communication module to enable the second power supply to supply power to the communication module when the power supply signal is received.

[0027] The time relay is further configured to maintain the conduction state for a first time duration during which the power supply signal is not received.

[0028] In the embodiment, the power supply module includes the second switch and the time relay. When the controller outputs the first signal and stops outputting the first signal for a first time duration, the time relay is in a conduction state, so that the second power supply can supply power to the communication module when the controller stops outputting the first signal, thereby realizing delay power-off of the communication module and ensuring the working reliability of the communication module. Meanwhile, the time relay is arranged between the second switch and the communication module to realize circuit isolation and improve the control reliability.

[0029] In some embodiments, the power supply module further includes a voltage regulation unit connected with the time relay and the communication module respectively.

[0030] The voltage regulation unit is configured to perform voltage step-down processing on the voltage output by the second power supply and provide the voltage after the voltage step-down to the communication module.

[0031] In the embodiment, the power supply module comprises a voltage regulating unit, the voltage regulating unit is connected with the time relay and the communication module respectively, the voltage output by the second power supply is stepped down by the voltage regulating unit to provide appropriate voltage for the communication module, and normal work of the communication module is ensured.

[0032] In some embodiments, the second switch comprises a switch tube, a first end of the switch tube is connected with the first power supply, a second end of the switch tube is connected with the time relay, and a third end of the switch tube is connected with the controller.

[0033] The switch tube is configured to, in a case where the first signal is received, trigger the first end of the switch tube and the second end of the switch tube to be conductive.

[0034] The switch tube is further configured to, in a case where the first signal is not received, be in an off state, and the first end of the switch tube and the second end of the switch tube are disconnected.

[0035] In the embodiment, the first end of the switch tube is connected with the first power supply, the second end of the switch tube is connected with the time relay, and the third end of the switch tube is connected with the controller. The switch tube is triggered to make the first end and the second end of the switch tube conductive according to the first signal output by the controller, and power supply signal transmission is realized. In a case where the controller stops outputting the first signal, the first end and the second end of the switch tube are disconnected, and power supply signal transmission is stopped. Compared with a mechanical switch, the use of the switch tube can reduce power consumption and improve response speed, thereby reducing power consumption of the power supply module and improving response speed of the power supply module.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first preset condition comprises that the controller performs firmware upgrading, and the first time length is greater than or equal to an upgrading time length corresponding to the firmware upgrading.

[0037] and / or,

[0038] The first preset condition comprises that the controller controls the communication module to perform resetting, and the first time length is greater than or equal to a resetting time length corresponding to the communication module.

[0039] In the embodiment, for the case that the controller can realize firmware upgrade, the first time length is set to be greater than or equal to the upgrade time length corresponding to the firmware upgrade, so that the delay power supply unit can continue to supply power to the communication module in the process of firmware upgrade of the controller, avoiding the phenomenon that the data transmission fails due to power-off of the communication module caused by firmware upgrade of the controller. For the case that the controller controls the communication module to reset, the first time length is set to be greater than or equal to the reset time length corresponding to the communication module, so that the delay power supply unit can continue to supply power to the communication module in the process of reset operation, without the controller simultaneously performing software timing and reset operation, reducing the software complexity of the controller.

[0040] In some embodiments, the communication module comprises a wireless communication module.

[0041] In the embodiment, compared with a wired communication module (such as Ethernet), the wireless communication module is used to realize communication, without setting physical cables such as network cables and optical fibers, reducing the wiring cost of the power supply control circuit of the communication module, and meanwhile making the communication module more flexible in the setting of the power supply control circuit.

[0042] The embodiment of the application discloses a household appliance, which comprises the power supply control circuit of any one of the communication modules disclosed in the embodiments of the application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0043] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the application, the drawings needed in the embodiments will be briefly introduced. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are only some embodiments of the application, and other drawings can be obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort on the basis of these drawings.

[0044] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a household appliance in the related art;

[0045] Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of a power supply control circuit of a communication module disclosed in the embodiments of the application;

[0046] Figure 3 is one of structural schematic diagrams of a power supply module disclosed in the embodiments of the application;

[0047] Figure 4 is another structural schematic diagram of a power supply module disclosed in the embodiments of the application;

[0048] Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram of another power supply control circuit of a communication module disclosed in the embodiments of the application;

[0049] Figure 6 is a structural schematic diagram of another power supply control circuit disclosed by an embodiment of the present application;

[0050] Figure 7 is a structural schematic diagram of a fourth power supply module disclosed by an embodiment of the present application;

[0051] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of a power supply control circuit of another communication module disclosed by an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some of the embodiments of the present application, but not all of the embodiments of the present application. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative work fall within the scope of the present application.

[0053] It should be noted that the terms “include” and “have” and any variations thereof in the embodiments of the present application and the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product or device including a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but can optionally include steps or units not listed or can optionally include other steps or units inherent to the process, method, product or device.

[0054] It can be understood that “connection” in the following embodiments should be understood as “electrical connection”, “communication connection” and the like if the connected circuits, modules, units and the like have electrical signal or data transmission between each other.

[0055] It should be noted that in the following embodiments, in the case of “connection” of one element to another element, it can be directly connected to another element or connected to another element through a central element.

[0056] Reference is made to Figure 1 which shows a structural schematic diagram of a household appliance in the related art. As shown in Figure 1 , the household appliance can include a communication module 110, a power supply 120, a third switch 130 and a controller 140. The controller 140 controls the third switch 130 to be in a conduction state by outputting a first signal, so as to turn on a path between the power supply 120 and the Wi-Fi module 110, and supply power to the communication module 110 through the power supply 120. When the controller 140 stops outputting the first signal, the third switch 130 is in a disconnection state, and the communication module 110 is powered off.

[0057] However, the researchers of the present application find that when the controller 140 performs firmware upgrade, such as FOTA (Firmware On The Air), the controller 140 needs to switch from the APP (Application) mode to the BOOT (Boot) mode, and during the mode switching, the I / O (Input / Output) port of the controller 140 is reset, which causes the controller 140 to fail to maintain the output of the first signal, the power supply of the communication module 110 is temporarily lost, and the communication module fails to implement data transmission. For example, for a Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, during the firmware upgrade of the controller 140, some states cannot be reported to the cloud.

[0058] The embodiments of the present application disclose a power supply control circuit of a communication module and a household appliance, which can enable the communication module to be in a powered state when the controller fails to output the first signal, reduce the phenomenon that the communication module fails to implement data transmission, and improve the working reliability of the communication module.

[0059] Please refer to Figure 2 which shows a structure diagram of a power supply control circuit of a communication module according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 2 The power supply control circuit 200 of the communication module can include a communication module 210, a power supply module 220, and a controller 230. The power supply module 220 can include a delay power supply unit 221. The power supply module 220 is connected with a power supply 240, the controller 230 is connected with the power supply module 220, and the delay power supply unit 221 is connected with the communication module 210. The controller 230 is configured to input a first signal to the power supply module 220, so that the power supply module 220 supplies power to the communication module 210 according to the voltage input by the power supply 240. The controller 230 is further configured to stop outputting the first signal when a first preset condition is met. The delay power supply unit 221 is configured to supply power to the communication module 210 within a first time length during which the controller 230 stops outputting the first signal.

[0060] It should be noted that the power supply module 220 can directly transmit the voltage provided by the power supply 240 to the communication module 210 to power the communication module 210, or the power supply module 220 can perform voltage reduction processing or voltage boosting processing on the voltage provided by the power supply 240 and provide the voltage after the voltage reduction processing or voltage boosting processing to the communication module 210. In the case where the first signal is received, the power supply module 220 can power the communication module 210 according to the voltage input by the power supply 240 through the delay power supply unit 221 or other units in the power supply module 220, and in the case where the controller 230 stops outputting the first signal, the power supply module 220 continues to power the communication module 210 through the delay power supply unit 221, so that the communication module 210 can continue to be powered on within the first time length during which the control module stops outputting the first signal, thereby avoiding that part of the data cannot be transmitted due to the temporary power failure of the communication module 210.

[0061] In some embodiments, the communication module 210 can include a radio frequency unit and a processing unit. The radio frequency unit is connected to the processing unit, and the processing unit is connected to the controller 230. The radio frequency unit is used to receive or send radio frequency signals, and the processing unit is used to decode the radio frequency signals received by the radio frequency unit and transmit the decoded radio frequency signals to the controller 230. The processing unit is also used to encode the signals to be sent output by the controller 230 to obtain radio frequency signals, and send the radio frequency signals through the radio frequency unit.

[0062] In some embodiments, the communication module 210 can include a wireless communication module. It should be noted that the wireless communication module communicates with other devices through wireless communication technology to realize data transmission. The wireless communication technology is a technology for transmitting data through electromagnetic waves (radio waves, infrared, microwave, etc.) without physical cables. In this embodiment, compared with the wired communication module (such as Ethernet), the wireless communication module is used to realize communication, and physical cables such as network cables and optical fibers are not needed, which reduces the wiring cost of the power supply control circuit of the communication module, and makes the communication module more flexible in the setting of the power supply control circuit.

[0063] In some embodiments, the communication module 210 can include but is not limited to a Wi-Fi module and / or a cellular communication module 210, etc. Optionally, the cellular communication module 210 can include a 2G module, a 3G module, a 4G module, a 5G module, and a 6G module, etc. In this embodiment, compared with a Bluetooth module, a Zigbee (Zigbee) module, etc., the Wi-Fi module and the cellular communication module can realize remote communication, thereby realizing remote control.

[0064] In some embodiments, the first preset condition may include at least one of the following: the controller 230 performing a firmware upgrade, the controller 230 controlling the communication module 210 to reset, and the controller 230 receiving a power failure signal.

[0065] When the controller 230 is undergoing a firmware upgrade, it switches from APP mode to BOOST mode, resets its I / O ports, and is unable to maintain the output of the first signal.

[0066] The controller 230 resetting the communication module 210 can refer to restoring the communication module 210 to its factory default state. The controller 230 needs to perform a reset operation, such as clearing all user data and configurations. For a Wi-Fi module, the reset operation may include unbinding the account from the cloud and unbinding the Wi-Fi module itself from the router. For a cellular communication module, the reset operation may include clearing the APN (Access Point Name) configuration and restoring the default network mode.

[0067] During the reset process of the communication module 210, the controller 230 typically needs to power off the communication module 210 to ensure a complete reset. In related technologies, if the controller 230 directly stops outputting the first signal, the communication module 210 will immediately power off, making the reset operation impossible. Therefore, in related technologies, the reset operation and power-off of the communication module 210 need to be controlled step-by-step by software. For example, during the reset operation, a software timer is used, and the controller 230 stops outputting the first signal only after the software timer has elapsed, thus powering off the communication module 210. However, this approach increases the difficulty of software design and is prone to errors. In this embodiment, a delayed power supply unit 221 is set to continue supplying power to the communication module 210 during the first duration of the controller 230 outputting the first signal. This allows the software control to complete the reset operation without the need for software timing, greatly reducing software complexity and design difficulty.

[0068] The power-off signal is used to instruct the control communication module 210 to be powered off. It should be noted that upon receiving this power-off signal, the controller 230 stops outputting the first signal. In certain situations, it is necessary to power off the communication module 210, such as when a household appliance connected to the power supply control circuit 200 of the communication module enters a low-power state, requiring the communication module 210 to be shut down to save energy.

[0069] In the embodiment, when the controller 230 stops outputting the first signal, the delay power supply unit 221 can continue to supply power to the communication module 210, so that even if the controller 230 does not output the first signal, the communication module 210 can maintain the powered-on state for at least the first time duration, i.e., can normally work, so that the communication module 210 can continue to transmit data, such as reporting state data to the cloud, to ensure the working reliability of the communication module 210. It should be noted that if the controller 230 re-outputs the first signal within the first time duration, the power supply module 220 can continue to supply power to the communication module 210, and if the first time duration is exceeded, the controller 230 does not output the first signal, and the communication module 210 is powered off.

[0070] In some embodiments, the delay power supply unit 221 can include an energy storage subunit configured to continue to supply power to the communication module 210 for the first time duration in which the controller 230 stops outputting the first signal.

[0071] In another embodiment, the delay power supply unit 221 is also configured to be in a conduction state to conduct a path between the power supply 240 and the communication module 210 to enable the power supply 240 to power on the communication module 210 when the first signal is received. The delay power supply unit 221 is also configured to maintain the conduction state to conduct the path between the power supply 240 and the communication module 210 to enable the power supply 240 to supply power to the communication module 210 for the first time duration in which the first signal is not received. In the embodiment, the delay power supply unit 221 is in the conduction state when the controller 230 outputs the first signal and for the first time duration in which the controller 230 stops outputting the first signal, so that the voltage output by the power supply 240 is output to the communication module 210 to supply power to the communication module 210.

[0072] In some embodiments, the controller can include an MCU (Microcontroller Unit).

[0073] In some embodiments, the first time duration can correspond to a range of 2s (seconds) to 15s. Alternatively, the first time duration can be 2s, 5s, 10s, or 15s.

[0074] In the embodiment of the present application, the power supply control circuit 200 of the communication module includes a communication module 210, a power supply module 220 connected with a power supply 240, and a controller 230 connected with the power supply module 220. In the case that the controller 230 inputs a first signal to the power supply module 220, the power supply module 220 supplies power to the communication module 210 according to the voltage input by the power supply 240. The control module stops outputting the first signal in the case that a first preset condition is met. The delay power supply unit 221 in the power supply module 220 continues to supply power to the communication module 210 within a first time length during which the controller 230 stops outputting the first signal, thereby avoiding the phenomenon that the communication module 210 cannot realize data transmission due to power failure of the communication module 210 in the case that the controller 230 suddenly stops outputting the first signal. The delay power supply unit 221 is configured to realize delay power failure of the communication module 210, thereby improving the working reliability of the communication module 210.

[0075] In some embodiments, the first preset condition includes that the controller performs firmware upgrade, and the first time length is greater than or equal to an upgrade time length corresponding to the firmware upgrade; and / or, the first preset condition includes that the controller controls the communication module to reset, and the first time length is greater than or equal to a reset time length corresponding to the communication module.

[0076] The upgrade time length refers to a time length required for the controller to perform firmware upgrade, and the reset time length refers to a time length required for the controller to control the communication module to reset, i.e., a time length required for performing the reset operation. It should be noted that, in the case that the first preset condition includes that the controller performs firmware upgrade, the first time length is greater than or equal to the upgrade time length corresponding to the firmware upgrade, so that, during the process of the controller performing firmware upgrade, even if the controller cannot maintain output of the first signal due to mode switching, the delay power supply unit can continue to supply power to the communication module, thereby avoiding power failure of the communication module and the phenomenon that part of data cannot be transmitted, and improving the working reliability of the communication module.

[0077] It should be noted that, in the case that the first preset condition includes that the controller controls the communication module to reset, the first time length is greater than or equal to the reset time length corresponding to the controller controlling the communication module to reset, so that, in the case that the controller needs to realize reset of the communication module, the controller can directly not stop the first signal while performing the reset operation without software timing, the delay power supply unit continues to supply power to the communication module to complete the reset operation, thereby reducing the software complexity of the controller and the design difficulty of the software.

[0078] It should be noted that, in the case that the controller completes firmware upgrade, the controller can continue to output the first signal, so that the power supply module can supply power to the communication module.

[0079] In some embodiments, the first time length is greater than or equal to a longer time length between the upgrade time length and the reset time length. It should be noted that the time length required for the controller to perform the firmware upgrade and the time length required for the communication module to perform the reset can be different. By setting the first time length to be greater than or equal to the longer time length between the upgrade time length and the reset time length, it can be ensured that the delay power supply unit can supply power to the communication module during the firmware upgrade and the reset of the communication module, thereby ensuring that the firmware upgrade of the controller and the reset of the communication module can be completed, and the working reliability of the communication module is improved.

[0080] In some embodiments, the delay power supply unit is further configured to stop supplying power to the communication module after the time length during which the controller stops outputting the first signal exceeds the first time length. It should be noted that for the case where the communication module needs to be powered off, such as when the controller receives a power-off signal, if the controller does not receive a power-on signal, the controller can not output the first signal again if the time length during which the controller stops outputting the first signal exceeds the first time length. Therefore, the communication module can be normally powered off. The power-on signal is used to indicate that the communication module is powered on.

[0081] In this embodiment, for the case where the controller can perform firmware upgrade, the first time length is set to be greater than or equal to the upgrade time length corresponding to the firmware upgrade, so that the delay power supply unit can continue to supply power to the communication module during the firmware upgrade of the controller, avoiding the phenomenon that the data transmission fails due to the firmware upgrade of the controller and the power-off of the communication module. For the case where the controller controls the communication module to perform the reset, the first time length is set to be greater than or equal to the reset time length corresponding to the communication module, so that the delay power supply unit can continue to supply power to the communication module during the reset operation, without the controller simultaneously performing software timing and the reset operation, thereby reducing the software complexity of the controller.

[0082] Figure 3 A structure diagram of a power supply module is shown. As shown in Figure 3 The power supply module 310 can include a first switch 311 and a delay power supply unit 312. The first switch 311 is connected to the power supply 320, the communication module 330, and the controller 340, respectively. The first switch 311 is configured to be in a conductive state when the first signal is received, to turn on a first path between the power supply 320 and the communication module 330, so that the power supply 320 supplies power to the communication module 330. The first switch 311 is also configured to be in a disconnected state when the first signal is not received, to disconnect the first path. The delay power supply unit 312 is further configured to continue to supply power to the communication module 330 within a first time length during which the first path is disconnected.

[0083] It should be noted that the first path refers to a path formed between the power supply 320 and the communication module 330. When the first signal is received by the first switch 311, the first switch 311 is in a conductive state, and the voltage output by the power supply 320 is transmitted to the communication module 330 through the first switch 311 to supply power to the communication module 330. When the first signal is not received by the first switch 311, the first path between the power supply 320 and the communication module 330 is disconnected, and in this case, the communication module 330 is supplied with power by the delay power supply unit 312.

[0084] In some embodiments, the first switch 311 can include a first switch tube. A first end of the first switch tube is connected to the power supply 320, a second end of the first switch tube is connected to the communication module 330, and a third end of the first switch tube is connected to the controller 340. The first switch tube is configured to, when the first signal is received by the third end of the first switch tube, trigger the first end of the first switch tube and the second end of the first switch tube to be in a conductive state. The first switch tube is also configured to, when the first signal is not received by the third end of the first switch tube, be in a non-conductive state, and the first end of the first switch tube and the second end of the first switch tube are disconnected.

[0085] In some embodiments, the first switch 311 can include a triode or a MOS tube (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor).

[0086] In some embodiments, the first signal can be a high-level signal, and the first switch 311 can include an NPN triode. The base of the NPN triode is connected to the controller 340, the collector of the NPN triode is connected to the power supply 320, and the emitter of the NPN triode is connected to the communication module 330.

[0087] In this embodiment, when the controller 340 outputs the first signal, i.e., the controller 340 outputs a high-level signal, the voltage between the base of the NPN triode and the emitter of the NPN triode is greater than the threshold voltage of the NPN triode, the collector of the NPN triode and the emitter of the NPN triode are in a conductive state, the voltage output by the power supply 320 is transmitted to the communication module 330 through the NPN triode, and the communication module 330 is supplied with power. When the controller 340 stops outputting the first signal, the collector of the NPN triode and the emitter of the NPN triode are disconnected, and at this time, the communication module 330 is supplied with power by the delay power supply unit 312, and the power supply time of the delay power supply unit 312 can be up to the first time. Compared with the MOS tube, the cost of the triode is lower, and in this embodiment, by selecting the NPN triode as the first switch 311, the cost of the power supply module can be reduced.

[0088] In some embodiments, the first signal can be a high-level signal, and the first switch 311 can include an NMOS transistor. The gate of the NMOS transistor is connected to the controller 340, the drain of the NMOS transistor is connected to the power supply 320, and the source of the NMOS transistor is connected to the communication module 330.

[0089] It should be noted that, in the case that the controller 340 outputs the first signal, i.e., the controller 340 outputs a high-level signal, the gate voltage of the NMOS transistor is greater than the threshold voltage corresponding to the NMOS transistor, the drain of the NMOS transistor is connected to the source of the NMOS transistor, and the voltage output by the power supply 320 is transmitted to the communication module 330 through the NMOS transistor, thereby achieving power supply for the communication module 330. In the case that the controller 340 stops outputting the first signal, the drain of the NMOS transistor is disconnected from the source of the NMOS transistor, and the communication module 330 is powered by the delay power supply unit 312.

[0090] It can be understood that, in the case that the first signal is a low-level signal, the first switch can also be implemented by a PNP transistor or a PMOS transistor, which will not be described herein again.

[0091] In some embodiments, the first switch 311 is also connected to the delay power supply unit 312. In the case that the first switch 311 is in a conductive state, a first path between the power supply 320 and the communication module 330 is conductive, and a second path between the power supply 320 and the delay power supply unit 312 is conductive. The power supply 320 provides power for the delay power supply unit 312 while supplying power for the communication module 330. The delay power supply unit 312 can store the power and release the stored power to supply power for the communication module 330 in the case that the controller 340 stops outputting the first signal. The second path refers to a path formed between the power supply 320 and the delay power supply unit 312.

[0092] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4 The delay power supply unit 312 can include a capacitor C. In the case that the first switch 311 is in a conductive state, the capacitor C is charged according to the voltage provided by the power supply 320. In the case that the first switch 311 is in a disconnected state, the capacitor C discharges to supply power for the communication module 330.

[0093] In some embodiments, the capacitor C also stops discharging in the case that the discharging time of the capacitor C exceeds a first time length. It should be noted that, in the case that the discharging time of the capacitor C exceeds the first time length, the voltage of the capacitor C is less than a voltage threshold, which is insufficient to maintain the communication module 330 to work. Therefore, the communication module 330 is powered off, so that the communication module 330 can also be powered off in the case that the controller 340 receives a power-off signal.

[0094] In some embodiments, the capacitor C is a super capacitor. It should be noted that the capacitance of the super capacitor can reach the level of farad, and the storage capacity of the super capacitor C is strong, so that the super capacitor can be discharged within the first time duration in the case that the first switch 311 is in the off state, so that the maximum time duration for the communication module 330 to be powered can reach the first time duration.

[0095] In other embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 4 , the delay power supply unit can include a resistor R and a capacitor C, wherein the resistor R is connected with the capacitor C, the first switch 410 and the communication module 420 respectively. It should be noted that by setting the resistor R, the current for the communication module 420 to be powered by the power supply 430 and the current for the capacitor C to be charged can be limited, so as to avoid the current for the communication module 420 to be powered by the power supply 430 and the current for the capacitor C to be charged by the power supply being too large, thereby protecting the communication module 420 and the capacitor C.

[0096] At the same time, compared with setting the resistor R on the loop in which the capacitor C supplies power to the communication module 420, it can be ensured that the communication module 420 can obtain stable voltage and sufficient current when the capacitor C is discharged, so that the communication module 420 can still maintain normal operation during the process of discharging the capacitor C in the case that the controller 440 stops outputting the first signal.

[0097] In some embodiments, the voltage range corresponding to the voltage output by the power supply can include 3.3V to 6V. Alternatively, the voltage output by the first power supply can be 3.3V, 5V or 6V, etc.

[0098] The capacitor is a passive element. In the present embodiment, the delay power supply unit includes a capacitor connected with the first switch and the communication module respectively. The capacitor is used to charge according to the voltage provided by the power supply in the case that the first switch is in the on state, and discharge to the communication module in the case that the first switch is in the off state, to realize the power supply for the communication module, so that the stored electrical energy can be released through the capacitor to power the communication module in the case that the first path between the power supply and the communication module is disconnected, thereby reducing the energy consumption and cost of the power supply module.

[0099] In the present embodiment, the power supply module includes a first switch. In the case that the controller outputs the first signal, the first switch is in the on state to turn on the first path between the power supply and the communication module to power the communication module by the power supply. In the case that the first signal is not received, the first switch is in the off state to turn off the first path between the power supply and the communication module, so as to avoid the power supply and the delay power supply unit supplying power to the communication module at the same time, avoid the current for the communication module to be powered being too large, and protect the communication module.

[0100] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 5 The power supply module can further include a protection unit 510 connected with the first switch 520 and the capacitor C respectively. The protection unit 510 is in an off state when the capacitor C is discharging, so as to prevent the current output by the capacitor C from flowing to the first switch 520.

[0101] It should be noted that the off state can refer to the protection unit 510 being in a high impedance state or an open circuit state. When the protection unit 510 is in the off state, the current flowing through the protection unit 510 is approximately equal to zero, or even zero.

[0102] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 5 The protection unit 510 can include a diode D. The anode of the diode D is connected with the first switch 520, and the cathode of the diode D is connected with the capacitor C and the Wi-Fi module 530. When the capacitor C is discharging, the diode D is in a reverse bias state, that is, the diode D is in an off state, which can prevent the current output by the capacitor C from flowing to the first switch 520. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the Wi-Fi module 530 is selected as the communication module.

[0103] In this embodiment, the protection unit 510 is arranged in the power supply module, which is connected with the first switch 520 and the capacitor C respectively, and is in an off state when the capacitor C is discharging, so as to prevent the current output by the capacitor C from flowing to the first switch, thereby protecting the power supply 550.

[0104] Please continue to refer to Figure 5 In this embodiment, the first switch 520 can include an NPN type transistor Q1, and the delay power supply unit further includes a resistor R. The base of the NPN type transistor Q1 is connected with the controller 540, the collector of the NPN type transistor is connected with the power supply 550, the emitter of the NPN type transistor Q1 is connected with one end of the resistor R, the other end of the resistor R is connected with the anode of the diode D, the cathode of the diode D is connected with the capacitor C and the Wi-Fi module 530 respectively, and the capacitor C and the Wi-Fi module 530 are connected with the ground terminal GND.

[0105] In some embodiments, the first preset condition comprises that the controller performs firmware upgrade, and the maximum discharge duration of the capacitor is greater than or equal to an upgrade duration corresponding to the firmware upgrade; and / or, the first preset condition comprises that the controller resets the communication module, and the maximum discharge duration of the capacitor is greater than or equal to a reset duration corresponding to the communication module. It should be noted that, if the communication module is powered by discharging the capacitor without the controller outputting the first signal, the maximum discharge duration of the capacitor should be able to reach the first duration, that is, the capacitor is in a discharging state and continues to power the communication module within the first duration in which the first switch is in an open state. The maximum discharge duration of the capacitor is positively correlated with the capacitance of the capacitor, and by selecting a capacitor with a suitable capacitance, the maximum discharge duration corresponding to the capacitor can reach the first duration to meet the needs of the controller performing firmware upgrade and / or the communication module performing reset.

[0106] Figure 6 A structure diagram of another power supply control circuit is shown. As shown in Figure 6 the power supply can include a first power supply 610 and a second power supply 620, the delay power supply unit can include a time relay 631, and the power supply module 630 can further include a second switch 632. The second switch 632 is connected with the first power supply 610, the time relay 631 and the controller 650 respectively, and the time relay 631 is connected with the second power supply 620 and the communication module 640 respectively.

[0107] The second switch 632 is used to be in a conduction state when receiving the first signal, to turn on the path between the time relay 631 and the first power supply 610, so that the first power supply 610 provides a power supply signal to the time relay 631. The time relay 631 is used to be in a conduction state when receiving the power supply signal, to turn on the path between the second power supply 620 and the communication module 640, so that the second power supply 620 powers the communication module 640. The time relay 631 is also used to maintain the conduction state within the first duration in which the power supply signal is not received, to turn on the path between the second power supply 620 and the communication module 640, so that the second power supply 620 powers the communication module 640.

[0108] It should be noted that the voltage corresponding to the power signal corresponds to the voltage provided by the first power supply 610. When the second switch 632 is in the on state, the voltage provided by the first power supply 610 is transmitted to the time relay 631 through the second switch, that is, the time relay 631 receives the power signal. The time relay 631 refers to a kind of relay, which is opened or closed after the time relay 631 corresponding to the specified preset time length after losing the action signal. In the embodiment, the action signal can be the power signal, the preset time length is the first time length, and the selected time relay 631 is the relay, which is opened after the first time length after losing the power signal. Therefore, when the duration of the first signal output by the controller 650 reaches the first time length, the time relay 631 is in the off state to disconnect the path between the second power supply 620 and the communication module 640. At the same time, the time relay 631 performs the closing action when receiving the power signal.

[0109] In some embodiments, the time relay 631 is also used to be in the off state when the duration of not receiving the power signal exceeds the first time length, and the communication module 640 is powered off. It can be seen that by setting the time relay 631 in the power supply module 630, the communication module 640 can be powered off when the controller 650 receives the power-off signal.

[0110] In some embodiments, the first preset condition can include that the controller 650 performs firmware upgrade, and the specified preset time length corresponding to the time relay 631 is greater than or equal to the upgrade time length corresponding to the firmware upgrade; and / or, the first preset condition includes that the controller 650 resets the communication module 640, and the specified preset time length corresponding to the time relay 631 is greater than or equal to the reset time length corresponding to the communication module 640. It should be noted that when the controller 650 stops outputting the first signal, the time relay 631 can maintain the on state for at least the first time length, so that the time relay 631 is still in the on state within the first time length when the second switch 632 is in the off state, to continue to power the communication module 640 through the second power supply 620. By selecting the time relay 631 with the specified preset time length greater than or equal to the upgrade time length, and / or selecting the time relay 631 with the specified preset time length greater than or equal to the reset time length, the communication module 640 can be prevented from being powered off during the firmware upgrade of the controller 650, and / or the communication module 640 can be ensured to be in the power-on state during the reset of the controller 650 controlling the communication module 640, to realize the reset of the communication module 640, and ensure the working reliability of the communication module 640.

[0111] Figure 7The fourth schematic diagram shows a power supply module according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 7 As shown, the power supply module 710 may include a voltage regulation unit 711, a time relay 712, and a second switch 713. The voltage regulation unit 711 is connected to both the time relay 712 and the communication module 720. The second switch 713 is connected to both the first power supply 740, the controller 750, and the time relay 712. The time relay 712 is connected to the second power supply 730. The voltage regulation unit 711 is used to step down the voltage output from the second power supply 730 and provide the stepped-down voltage to the communication module 720.

[0112] It should be noted that the descriptions of the second switch 713, the first power supply 740, the second power supply 730, and the controller 750 can be found in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here. The voltage output by the second power supply 730 is higher than the operating voltage required by the communication module 720. By setting a voltage regulation unit 711, the voltage output by the second power supply 730 is stepped down to obtain the voltage required for the operation of the communication module 720, and the stepped-down voltage is provided to the communication module 720 to meet the operating requirements of the communication module 720.

[0113] In some embodiments, the voltage regulation unit 711 may include, but is not limited to, a BUCK circuit or a linear buck circuit. A BUCK circuit is a DC-DC converter based on the principle of inductor energy storage. By controlling a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) wave with a variable input duty cycle to switch the on and off states of the switching transistors in the BUCK circuit, it converts the DC voltage provided by the second power supply 730 into an adjustable low-voltage output. A linear buck circuit uses a linear regulator (such as a transistor) to reduce the voltage provided by the second power supply 730, making the output voltage of the linear buck circuit lower than the voltage provided by the second power supply 730. The output voltage of this linear buck circuit is stable.

[0114] Understandably, the voltage regulation unit 711 can also be implemented using other circuit structures, as long as it can achieve the voltage reduction function. This embodiment does not limit this.

[0115] In some embodiments, the voltage range corresponding to the voltage output by the first power supply 740 may include 3.3V to 6V. Optionally, the voltage output by the first power supply 740 may be 3.3V, 5V, or 6V, etc.

[0116] In some embodiments, the voltage range provided by the second power supply 730 is 110V to 220V. Optionally, the voltage output by the second power supply 730 may be 110V, 115V, or 220V, etc. It is understood that the voltage output by the first power supply and the second power supply 730 can be set according to actual conditions, that is, the first power supply 740 and the second power supply 730 can be selected to meet the requirements of the output voltage. This embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0117] In some embodiments, the voltage output by the second power supply 620 may be greater than the voltage output by the first power supply 610. In some embodiments, after the voltage regulation unit 711 steps down the voltage output by the second power supply 730, the resulting stepped-down voltage matches the voltage output by the first power supply 740.

[0118] In this embodiment, the power supply module includes a voltage regulation unit 711, which is connected to a time relay 712 and a communication module 720. The voltage regulation unit 711 reduces the voltage output by the second power supply 730 to provide a suitable voltage for the communication module 720 and ensure the normal operation of the communication module 720.

[0119] Meanwhile, since the voltage regulation unit 711 can reduce the voltage output by the second power supply 730, it is possible to select the second power supply 730 with a larger output voltage, thereby reducing the current flowing through the time relay 712, reducing coil heating, and thus reducing energy consumption.

[0120] For ease of distinction, in the following embodiments, the switching transistor included in the second switch is referred to as the second switching transistor. Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the power supply control circuit of another communication module provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 8 As shown, the second switch may include a second switching transistor 810. The first terminal of the second switching transistor 810 is connected to the first power supply 820, the second terminal of the second switching transistor 810 is connected to the time relay 830, and the third terminal of the second switching transistor 810 is connected to the controller 840. The second switching transistor 810 is used to trigger the first terminal and the second terminal of the second switching transistor 810 to conduct when a first signal is received. The second switching transistor 810 is also used to be in a cutoff state when no second signal is received, with the first terminal and the second terminal of the second switching transistor 810 disconnected. In some embodiments, the second switch may include, but is not limited to, a transistor or a MOSFET (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor).

[0121] In some embodiments, please refer toFigure 8 The first signal is a high-level signal, and the second switch includes an NPN transistor Q2. The base of the NPN transistor Q2 is connected with the controller 840, the collector of the NPN transistor Q2 is connected with the first power supply 820, and the emitter of the NPN transistor Q2 is connected with the time relay 830. It should be noted that, in the case that the controller 840 outputs the first signal, i.e., in the case that the controller 840 outputs the high-level signal, the voltage between the base of the NPN transistor Q2 and the emitter of the NPN transistor Q2 is greater than the threshold voltage of the NPN transistor Q2, the collector of the NPN transistor Q2 is connected with the emitter of the NPN transistor Q2, and the power supply signal output by the first power supply 820 is transmitted to the time relay 830 through the NPN transistor Q2, so that the time relay 830 is in the conducting state, and then the Wi-Fi module 860 is powered by the second power supply 850. In the case that the controller 840 does not output the first signal, the collector of the NPN transistor Q2 is disconnected with the emitter of the NPN transistor Q2, at this time, the time relay 830 cannot receive the power supply signal, the time relay 830 starts timing, and in the case that the timing duration reaches the first duration, the time relay 830 is in the disconnected state, and the Wi-Fi module 860 is realized to be powered off in delay. Compared with the MOS tube, the cost of the transistor is lower, and in the embodiment, by selecting the N-type transistor as the second switch, the cost of the power supply module can be reduced. It can be understood that, in the embodiment, the Wi-Fi module 860 is taken as the communication module.

[0122] In some embodiments, the first signal is a high-level signal, and the second switch can include an NMOS tube. The gate of the NMOS tube is connected with the controller 840, the drain of the NMOS tube is connected with the first power supply 820, and the source of the NMOS tube is connected with the time relay 830. It should be noted that, in the case that the controller 840 outputs the first signal, the gate voltage of the NMOS tube is greater than the threshold voltage corresponding to the NMOS tube, the drain of the NMOS tube is connected with the source of the NMOS tube, and the power supply signal output by the first power supply 820 is transmitted to the time relay 830 through the NMOS tube, so that the time relay 830 is in the conducting state. In the case that the controller stops outputting the first signal, the drain of the NMOS tube is disconnected with the source of the NMOS tube, the time relay 830 cannot receive the power supply signal, the time relay 830 starts timing, and in the case that the timing duration reaches the first duration, the time relay 830 is in the disconnected state, and the Wi-Fi module 860 is realized to be powered off in delay.

[0123] It can be understood that, in the case that the first signal is a low-level signal, the second switch can also be realized by a PNP transistor or a PMOS tube, which will not be described herein again.

[0124] Please continue to refer to Figure 8The power supply module can further include a voltage modulation unit 870 connected with the time relay 830 and the Wi-Fi module 860 respectively. The voltage modulation unit is described in the above embodiment, and thus is not described here again.

[0125] In the embodiment, the first end of the second switch tube is connected with the first power supply, the second end of the second switch tube is connected with the time relay, and the third end of the second switch tube is connected with the controller. The second switch tube is turned on according to the first signal output by the controller, and the first end and the second end of the second switch tube are turned on to realize the transmission of the power supply signal. In the case where the controller stops outputting the first signal, the first end and the second end of the second switch tube are turned off to stop the transmission of the power supply signal. Compared with the mechanical switch, the use of the second switch tube can reduce the power consumption and improve the response speed, thereby reducing the power consumption of the power supply module and improving the response speed of the power supply module.

[0126] In the embodiment, the power supply module can include a second switch and a time relay. In the case where the controller outputs the first signal and stops outputting the first signal for a first time length, the time relay is in a turned-on state to enable the second power supply to supply power to the communication module in the case where the controller stops outputting the first signal, thereby realizing the delayed power-off of the communication module and ensuring the working reliability of the communication module. Meanwhile, the time relay is arranged between the second switch and the communication module to realize the circuit isolation and improve the control reliability.

[0127] The application further provides a household appliance including the power supply control circuit of the communication module provided in the above embodiments.

[0128] In the embodiment, the household appliance includes the power supply control circuit of the communication module provided in the above embodiments, and the power supply control circuit of the communication module includes the communication module, the power supply module, and the controller. In the case where the controller inputs the first signal to the power supply module, the power supply module supplies power to the communication module according to the voltage input by the power supply. The controller stops outputting the first signal in the case where the first preset condition is met. The time relay in the power supply module continues to supply power to the communication module for a first time length in the case where the controller stops outputting the first signal, thereby avoiding the phenomenon that the communication module cannot realize data transmission due to the power-off of the communication module in the case where the controller suddenly stops outputting the first signal. The time relay is arranged to realize the delayed power-off of the communication module, thereby improving the working reliability of the communication module.

[0129] In the description of the specification, the description referring to the terms "some embodiments", "other embodiments", "ideal embodiments", and the like means that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiments or examples are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present application. In the description, the illustrative description of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example.

[0130] The technical features of the above-described embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. In order to make the description simple, all possible combinations of the technical features in the above-described embodiments are not described, but as long as the combinations of the technical features do not contradict each other, they should be considered as the scope of the present application.

[0131] The above-described embodiments only express several implementation manners of the present application, and the description is relatively specific and detailed, but it should not be understood as a limitation on the scope of the present application. It should be noted that, for those skilled in the art, without departing from the concept of the present application, a number of modifications and improvements can be made, which are all within the protection scope of the present application. Therefore, the protection scope of the present application should be subject to the appended claims.

Claims

1. A power supply control circuit for a communication module, characterized by, include: Communication module; Power supply module, connected to the power supply; A controller, connected to the power supply module, is used to input a first signal to the power supply module so that the power supply module supplies power to the communication module according to the voltage of the power input; And, if the first preset condition is met, stop outputting the first signal; The power supply module includes a delayed power supply unit; The delayed power supply unit is connected to the communication module, and the delayed power supply unit is used to continue to supply power to the communication module during the first duration during which the controller stops outputting the first signal.

2. The power supply control circuit of claim 1, wherein, The power supply module also includes a first switch, which is connected to the power supply, the communication module, and the controller respectively. The first switch is configured to be in an ON state when a first signal is received, so as to open a first path between the power supply and the communication module, so that the power supply can supply power to the communication module; The first switch is also configured to be in an open state when the first signal is not received, so as to disconnect the first path; The delayed power supply unit is also used to continue supplying power to the communication module during the first duration of the first channel being disconnected.

3. The power supply control circuit of claim 2, wherein, The delayed power supply unit includes a capacitor, which is connected to the first switch and the communication module respectively. The capacitor is used to charge according to the voltage provided by the power supply when the first switch is in the on state; The capacitor is also used to discharge to the communication module when the first switch is in the open state, so as to supply power to the communication module.

4. The power supply control circuit of claim 3, wherein, The power supply control circuit also includes a protection unit, which is connected to the first switch and the capacitor respectively. The protection unit is configured to be in a cut-off state when the capacitor is discharging, so as to prevent the current output by the capacitor from flowing to the first switch.

5. The power supply control circuit of claim 1, wherein, The power supply includes a first power supply and a second power supply. The delayed power supply unit includes a time relay, which is connected to the second power supply and the communication module. The power supply module also includes a second switch, which is connected to the first power supply, the time relay, and the controller. The second switch is configured to be in an ON state when the first signal is received, so as to open the path between the time relay and the first power supply, so that the first power supply provides a power signal to the time relay. The time relay is used to be in an on state when the power signal is received, so as to open the path between the second power supply and the communication module, so that the second power supply can supply power to the communication module. The time relay is also used to maintain the conducting state during a first period of time when the power signal is not received.

6. The power supply control circuit of claim 5, wherein, The power supply module also includes a voltage regulation unit, which is connected to the time relay and the communication module respectively; The voltage regulation unit is used to step down the voltage output by the second power supply and provide the stepped-down voltage to the communication module.

7. The power supply control circuit of claim 5, wherein, The second switch comprises a switch tube, a first end of the switch tube is connected with the first power supply, a second end of the switch tube is connected with the time relay, and a third end of the switch tube is connected with the controller. The switch tube is configured to, in a case where the first signal is received, trigger the first end of the switch tube to be conductive with the second end of the switch tube. The switch tube is further configured to, in a case where the first signal is not received, be in an off state, and the first end of the switch tube is disconnected with the second end of the switch tube.

8. The power supply control circuit according to claim 1, wherein the first preset condition comprises that the controller performs firmware upgrading, and the first time length is greater than or equal to an upgrading time length corresponding to the firmware upgrading; and / or the first preset condition comprises that the controller controls the communication module to perform resetting, and the first time length is greater than or equal to a resetting time length corresponding to the communication module.

9. The power supply control circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by, The communication module comprises a wireless communication module.

10. A domestic appliance characterized in that, A power supply control circuit comprising the communication module according to any one of claims 1-9. A power supply control circuit comprising the communication module according to any one of claims 1-9.

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