Water heater and control method and apparatus therefor, storage medium, and product

Abstract

The present application discloses a water heater and a control method and apparatus therefor, a storage medium, and a product. The water heater is connected to external heat source apparatuses configured to provide heat sources to the water heater, and the method comprises: acquiring indication information in a powered-on state of the water heater; in response to the indication information, acquiring a heat source signal type of an external heat source apparatus connected to the water heater; and on the basis of the heat source signal type and a first mapping, identifying a heat source type of the external heat source apparatus, the first mapping comprising correspondences between heat source types of the external heat source apparatuses and heat source signal types.

Description

Water heaters and their control methods, devices, storage media and products

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410950286.3, filed on July 15, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of automatic control technology, and in particular to a water heater and its control method, device, storage medium and product. Background Technology

[0004] As people's living standards improve, in order to save energy and improve user reliability, water heaters on the market can now be connected to multiple heat sources. However, due to the significant differences in wiring methods and working principles of different heat sources, users usually need to manually set the desired heat source type after wiring. However, manual setting has a large margin of error; for example, users may misoperate, causing the water heater to malfunction. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a water heater and its control method, device, storage medium and product, which aim to achieve automatic identification of heat source type.

[0006] The technical solution of this application embodiment is implemented as follows:

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a control method for a water heater, wherein the water heater is connected to an external heat source device for providing heat to the water heater, and the method includes:

[0008] Obtain indication information while the water heater is powered on;

[0009] In response to the instruction information, obtain the heat source signal type of the external heat source device connected to the water heater;

[0010] Based on the heat source signal type and the first mapping relationship, the heat source type of the external heat source device is identified. The first mapping relationship includes the correspondence between the heat source type of each external heat source device and the heat source signal type.

[0011] In some embodiments, the indication information is either first indication information that does not carry the target heat source type or second indication information that carries the target heat source type, and the method further includes:

[0012] If the indication information is the second indication information, then in response to the second indication information, it is determined whether the identified heat source type is the same as the target heat source type. If not, a prompt information is generated.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0014] Based on the identified heat source type and the second mapping relationship, the target control strategy of the water heater is determined. The second mapping relationship includes the correspondence between each heat source type and each control strategy.

[0015] The operation of the water heater is controlled based on a target control strategy.

[0016] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes a water tank connected to an external heat source device, the external heat source device including a gas heat source device, and the method further includes:

[0017] In response to the instruction, the temperature parameters of the water tank are obtained;

[0018] If the temperature parameter meets the set threshold, the heat source type of the external heat source device is determined to be the first heat source type; otherwise, the heat source signal type is obtained; the first heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the gas heat source device.

[0019] In some embodiments, the external heat source device further includes a solar heat source device, which identifies the heat source type of the heat source device based on the heat source signal type and a first mapping relationship, including:

[0020] If the heat source signal type is a temperature signal type or a switch signal type, then based on the first mapping relationship, the heat source type is determined to be the second heat source type, which is the heat source type corresponding to the solar thermal source device.

[0021] In some embodiments, the solar thermal source device includes: a first solar thermal source device that provides a heat source to a water heater based on a temperature signal and / or a second solar thermal source device that provides a heat source to a water heater based on a switch signal; the method further includes:

[0022] If the heat source signal type is a temperature signal type, then based on the first mapping relationship, the heat source type is determined to be the third heat source type; or,

[0023] If the heat source signal type is a switch signal type, then based on the first mapping relationship, the heat source type is determined to be the fourth heat source type;

[0024] Among them, the third heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the first solar heat source device, and the fourth heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the second solar heat source device.

[0025] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes a water tank and a water pump, one end of the external heat source device is connected to the water tank, and the other end of the external heat source device is connected to the water pump. The external heat source device further includes a solar heat source device. The method further includes:

[0026] If the identified heat source type is the second heat source type, then obtain the water pump type corresponding to the water pump connected to the solar heat source device. The water pump type is either a fixed frequency water pump or a variable frequency water pump.

[0027] If the water pump is a fixed-frequency pump, its on / off state is controlled based on the temperature of the solar thermal source and the water tank; or,

[0028] If the pump type is a variable frequency pump, then determine the speed of the variable frequency pump; and control the operation of the variable frequency pump based on the speed.

[0029] The second heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the solar thermal source device.

[0030] In some embodiments, controlling the on / off state of a fixed-frequency water pump based on the temperature of the solar thermal source device and the temperature of the water tank includes:

[0031] If the temperature of the solar thermal source device is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold and the water tank temperature, and the water tank temperature is less than the second temperature threshold, then the switch state of the fixed frequency water pump is switched to the on state.

[0032] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0033] The pump speed is determined based on the water tank temperature and a second temperature threshold.

[0034] In some embodiments, determining the pump speed based on the water tank temperature and a second temperature threshold includes:

[0035] If the difference between the water tank temperature and the second temperature threshold is greater than the upper limit of the set difference range, then the water pump speed is determined to be the maximum set speed.

[0036] If the difference between the water tank temperature and the second temperature threshold is less than the lower limit of the set difference range, then the water pump speed is determined to be the minimum set speed.

[0037] If the difference between the water tank temperature and the second temperature threshold falls within the set difference range, the pump speed is determined based on the difference and the preset ratio.

[0038] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a control device for a water heater. The water heater is connected to an external heat source device for providing heat to the water heater. The control device includes:

[0039] The acquisition module is configured to acquire indication information when the water heater is powered on; and to acquire the heat source signal type of the external heat source device connected to the water heater in response to the indication information.

[0040] The identification module is configured to identify the heat source type of an external heat source device based on the heat source signal type and a first mapping relationship. The first mapping relationship includes the correspondence between the heat source type of each external heat source device and the heat source signal type.

[0041] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a water heater connected to an external heat source device for providing heat to the water heater. The water heater further includes a processor and a memory for storing a computer program that can run on the processor, wherein when the processor is configured to run the computer program, it executes the steps of the method of the first aspect of embodiments of this application.

[0042] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes a water tank and a water pump, with one end of an external heat source device connected to the water tank and the other end of the external heat source device connected to the water pump.

[0043] In some embodiments, the water tank includes an inner coil connected to one end of an external heat source device.

[0044] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer storage medium storing a computer program. When the computer program is executed by a water heater, it implements the steps of the method of the first aspect of embodiments of this application.

[0045] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a water heater, implements the steps of the method of the first aspect of this application.

[0046] The technical solution provided in this application embodiment involves connecting an external heat source device to a water heater to provide heat to the water heater. The method includes: acquiring indication information when the water heater is powered on; acquiring the heat source signal type of the external heat source device connected to the water heater in response to the indication information; and identifying the heat source type of the external heat source device based on the heat source signal type and a first mapping relationship, wherein the first mapping relationship includes the correspondence between the heat source type of each external heat source device and the heat source signal type.

[0047] Thus, in response to the instruction information, this embodiment of the application automatically identifies the external heat source device connected to the water heater based on the type of heat source signal obtained, which simplifies the operation process and improves the heating efficiency of the water heater. Attached Figure Description

[0048] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water heater corresponding to the first solar heat source device provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water heater corresponding to the gas heat source device provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water heater corresponding to the second solar heat source device provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the water heater provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the automatic heat source type identification scheme for a water heater in an application example of this application;

[0053] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the control panel of a water heater in an application example of this application;

[0054] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the control device of the water heater according to an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of the water heater according to an embodiment of this application.

[0056] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. First solar thermal source device; 2. Gas thermal source device; 3. Second solar thermal source device; 11. Collector tube; 12. Temperature sensor; 13. Gas thermal source controller; 14. Switch module; 4. Water tank; 41. Water tank controller; 5. Water pump; 6. First connecting pipe; 7. Second connecting pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0058] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application.

[0059] This application provides a water heater that is connected to an external heat source device to provide heat to the water heater.

[0060] It is understandable that the water heater can be a heat pump type air source water heater or an electric water heater.

[0061] It is understood that, in order to save energy and facilitate user use, the water heater in this application embodiment can be connected to an external heat source device, which includes, but is not limited to, a solar heat source device and a gas heat source device. The heat source type of the external heat source device is either solar energy or gas. For example, the water heater can be connected to a solar heat source device or a gas heat source device.

[0062] Here, the gas-fired heat source device includes a gas-fired boiler, which is a heat energy conversion device that uses natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas or other gas as fuel and converts chemical energy into heat energy through a combustion process, thereby heating water or producing steam.

[0063] Furthermore, if a gas-fired heat source device uses combustion fuel to release heat, it can be used under any circumstances because its operating conditions are independent of the external environment.

[0064] Furthermore, the solar thermal source device can be a solar thermal source device based on heat collection tubes. Solar energy is a clean and renewable energy source, and through the special design of the heat collection tubes (such as coatings to enhance heat absorption capacity), solar energy can be efficiently converted into thermal energy.

[0065] Understandably, solar collector tubes typically consist of a series of vacuum tubes that efficiently absorb sunlight and convert it into heat energy. Sunlight passes through the outer glass tube and is absorbed by the heat-absorbing coating on the inner tube surface, heating the heat transfer medium (usually water) inside the tube. The presence of the vacuum layer significantly reduces heat loss through radiation and convection, thus improving solar collector efficiency.

[0066] Furthermore, the solar thermal source device also includes a first solar thermal source device that provides heat to the water heater based on a temperature signal and / or a second solar thermal source device that provides heat to the water heater based on a switch signal.

[0067] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes a water tank connected to an external heat source device.

[0068] It is understandable that external heat source devices serve as the heat source for raising the temperature of the water in the tank. For example, a solar heat source device heats the water in the tank through collector tubes; a gas-fired heat source device can generate heat energy through a gas boiler and transfer the heat energy to the water tank, thereby indirectly heating the water in the tank.

[0069] It is understood that the water tank is connected to an external heat source device via a connecting pipe. The water tank in this embodiment is an insulated water tank, which has excellent heat preservation performance and is used to store water heated by the heat source device. The inside of the water tank is typically equipped with an insulation layer to reduce heat loss and maintain water temperature. In this way, even when there is no sunlight (such as at night or on rainy days), the user can obtain hot water at the set temperature.

[0070] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes a water pump, with one end of the external heat source device connected to the water tank and the other end of the external heat source device connected to the water pump.

[0071] Understandably, in order to accelerate and control the flow of hot water, the water heater in this application also includes a water pump (also known as a circulating water pump). There are multiple water pumps, which are located between the external heat source device and the water tank. One end of each external heat source device is connected to the water tank, and the other end of each external heat source device is connected to a corresponding water pump.

[0072] Understandably, the water pump is located between the water tank and the heat source, and its function is to force water to circulate between the external heat source device and the insulated water tank. Assuming the external heat source device is a solar heat source device, when the water in the solar collector tubes is heated and transported to the water tank, the circulating water pump starts to draw cooler water from the water tank and send it back to the solar device for further heating, thereby ensuring efficient heat transfer.

[0073] In some embodiments, the water tank includes an inner coil connected to one end of an external heat source device.

[0074] Understandably, the inner coil is a heat exchange device embedded inside the water tank. It can be immersed in the water inside the tank, allowing the heat generated by the external heat source device to be quickly and directly transferred to the water in the tank. This improves the thermal efficiency of heat transfer.

[0075] Understandably, the inner coil is typically made of highly efficient thermally conductive materials (such as copper or stainless steel), and its design aims to increase the contact area with water, thereby accelerating the heat exchange rate. The coil structure can be spiral, multi-turn, etc., to maximize the contact between water and the coil surface and ensure uniform heat distribution.

[0076] For example, this application provides structural diagrams of three different types of water heaters with different heat sources. The following is a detailed description of the structure of each water heater.

[0077] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a water heater with an external heat source device of the first solar heat source device 1. The water heater includes a water tank 4, a water pump 5, a first connecting pipe 6, and a second connecting pipe 7. The first solar heat source device 1 includes a collector pipe 11. One end of the first solar heat source device 1 is connected to the water tank 4 via the first connecting pipe 6, and the other end of the first solar heat source device 1 is connected to the water tank 4 via the second connecting pipe 7. The water pump 5 can be installed on the second connecting pipe 7.

[0078] When the water heater is powered on, if the first solar heat source device 1 is selected to heat the water heater, the collector tube 11 is exposed to sunlight (as shown by the direction of the solid arrow in the figure), and can collect external solar energy to heat the water in the collector tube 11.

[0079] In practical applications, the direction of water flow in the water heater is shown by the dotted arrow in the figure. After the water in the heat collection tube 11 is heated, it is transported to the water tank 4 through the first connecting pipe 6. The water tank 4 has good heat preservation performance and is used to store the heated water. When the circulating water pump 5 is in the start state, it draws out the colder water from the water tank 4 and sends it back to the heat collection tube 11 for continued heating.

[0080] Here, a temperature sensor 12 is also installed on the first solar thermal source device 1, and a water tank controller 41 is also installed on the water tank 4. The temperature sensor 12 is electrically connected to the water tank controller 41, and the water pump 5 is electrically connected to the water tank controller 41. In practical applications, the temperature sensor 12 can input the temperature of the hot water in the collector tube 11 to the water tank controller 41 in real time. The water tank controller 41 is used to acquire the temperature signal and compare the temperature difference between the hot water in the collector tube 11 and the water temperature in the water tank 4, and control the water pump 5 based on the temperature difference.

[0081] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a water heater with an external heat source device of gas heat source device 2. The water heater includes: a water tank 4, a water pump 5, a first connecting pipe 6, and a second connecting pipe 7. The gas heat source device 2 includes a gas heat source controller 13, and the water tank 4 is equipped with a water tank controller 41. The gas heat source controller 13 is electrically connected to the water tank controller 41 and is responsible for controlling the combustion of gas. In practical applications, the water tank controller 41 is used to detect the water temperature in the water tank 4. When the water temperature in the water tank 4 is too low and heating is needed, a signal is sent to the gas heat source controller 13 to control the gas heat source to run for a certain period of time.

[0082] Here, the water tank controller 41 can control the gas heat source device 2 and the water pump 5 in conjunction. For example, when the water tank controller 41 determines that heating is required, it will control the gas heat source controller 13 to turn on the gas heat source device 2 and start the water pump 5 at the same time; when heating is not required, it can also control them to turn off at the same time.

[0083] In practical applications, the direction of water flow in the water heater is shown by the dotted arrow in the figure. After the gas heat source device 2 receives the heating command, it starts the combustion process to heat the water flowing through it. The water heated by the gas heat source device 2 is transported to the water tank 4 through the first connecting pipe 6. The water tank 4 is used to store the heated water. When the water pump 5 is in the starting state, it draws out the colder water from the water tank 4 and sends it back to the gas heat source device 2 for continued heating.

[0084] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a water heater with an external heat source device of a second solar heat source device 3. The water heater includes: a second solar heat source device 3, a water tank 4, a water pump 5, a first connecting pipe 6, and a second connecting pipe 7. One end of the second solar heat source device 3 is connected to the water tank 4 via the first connecting pipe 6, and the other end of the second solar heat source device 3 is connected to the water tank 4 via the second connecting pipe 7. The water pump 5 is installed on the second connecting pipe 7.

[0085] When the water heater is powered on and the second solar heat source device 3 is selected to heat the water heater, the heat collection tube 11 is used to collect external solar energy (as shown by the direction of the solid arrow in the figure) to heat the water in the heat collection tube 11.

[0086] In practical applications, the direction of water flow in the water heater is shown by the dotted arrow in the figure. After the water in the heat collection tube 11 is heated, it is transported to the water tank 4 through the first connecting pipe 6. The water tank 4 has good heat preservation performance and is used to store the heated water. When the circulating water pump 5 is in the start state, it draws out the colder water from the water tank 4 and sends it back to the heat collection tube 11 for continued heating.

[0087] Here, the second solar thermal source device 3 is also equipped with a switch module 14, and the water tank 4 is also equipped with a water tank controller 41. The switch module 14 is electrically connected to the water tank controller 41, and the water tank controller 41 is electrically connected to the water pump 5. In practical applications, when the temperature of the hot water in the collector tube 11 reaches a certain value, the switch module 14 generates a switch signal and inputs it to the water tank controller 41. The water tank controller 41 receives the switch signal and uses this switch signal to control the on / off state of the water pump 5.

[0088] It should be noted that the water heater in this embodiment has multiple external heat source devices, i.e., at least two. The above only illustrates a schematic diagram of a single external heat source device connected to the water heater. It is understood that the pipes of multiple external heat source devices can all be connected to the water heater, meeting the user's personalized choice of heating source.

[0089] Based on the structure of the water heater described above, this application provides a control method for the water heater, as shown in Figure 4. The method includes the following steps:

[0090] Step 410: Obtain indication information while the water heater is powered on.

[0091] It should be noted that after the water heater is powered on, the system enters standby mode. At this time, since the water heater is connected to an external heat source device, the user can select a suitable external heat source device and complete the corresponding wiring work according to actual needs or changes in environmental conditions. Because the circuit interfaces and control logic of each type of external heat source device (such as solar, electric heating, gas heating, etc.) are different, correct wiring is fundamental to ensuring the safe operation of the system.

[0092] Here, once the water heater is wired, it enters the power-on state and awaits further instructions. In this embodiment, while the water heater is powered on, it acquires instruction information, which is used to identify the type of heat source corresponding to the external heat source device connected to the water heater.

[0093] It is understandable that the instruction information can be based on the user's direct operation instructions (such as selection through the human-machine interface on the wired controller) or instructions automatically issued by the system according to preset conditions. For example, suppose the user can input the instruction information into the water heater through the control panel, the water heater's control device obtains the instruction information and identifies the external heat source device connected to the water heater.

[0094] Step 420: In response to the instruction information, obtain the heat source signal type of the external heat source device connected to the water heater.

[0095] Understandably, in response to user input instructions, the water heater's control device detects the heat source signal emitted by the external heat source device connected to the water heater and determines the type of heat source signal based on the heat source signal.

[0096] For example, assuming the heat source signal emitted by the external heat source device is a temperature signal, then the heat source signal type of the heat source signal is determined to be temperature. As another example, assuming the heat source signal emitted by the external heat source device is a switch signal, then the heat source signal type of the heat source signal is determined to be switch.

[0097] Step 430: Based on the heat source signal type and the first mapping relationship, identify the heat source type of the external heat source device. The first mapping relationship includes the correspondence between the heat source type of each external heat source device and the heat source signal type.

[0098] It is understandable that different external heat source devices correspond to different heat source signal types, and their corresponding heat source types are also different. The correspondence between the heat source type of each external heat source device and the heat source signal type can be stored in advance.

[0099] Here, external heat source devices include, but are not limited to: solar heat source devices, electric heating heat source devices, and air source heat source devices. Correspondingly, heat source types include, but are not limited to: solar energy, electric heating, and air source heat pumps. Here, solar energy utilizes solar collectors or vacuum tubes to absorb sunlight and convert it into heat energy to heat water. Electric heating directly converts electrical energy into heat energy through heating elements (such as resistance wires) to heat water. Air source heat pumps extract heat from the surrounding air, circulate compressed refrigerant to increase the heat energy level, and then heat the water.

[0100] It is understandable that when the heat source signal type is obtained, the heat source type corresponding to the heat source signal type can be found in the first mapping relationship, thereby identifying the heat source type of the external heat source device.

[0101] Thus, in response to the instruction information, this embodiment of the application automatically identifies the external heat source device connected to the water heater based on the type of heat source signal obtained, which simplifies the operation process and improves the heating efficiency of the water heater.

[0102] In some embodiments, the indication information is either first indication information that does not carry the target heat source type or second indication information that carries the target heat source type, and the method further includes:

[0103] If the indication information is the second indication information, then in response to the second indication information, it is determined whether the identified heat source type is the same as the target heat source type. If not, a prompt information is generated.

[0104] It is understandable that the instruction information can be the operation command that the user directly uses through the human-machine interface on the wired controller. This instruction information can be either the first instruction information that does not carry the target heat source type or the second instruction information that carries the target heat source type.

[0105] For example, when a user operates the water heater through its control panel, the control panel not only provides direct selection options for various heat source types (such as electric heating, natural gas, solar energy, etc.), but also adds an automatic selection option. Users can select various heat source types or the automatic selection option via touch or buttons.

[0106] Here, if one of multiple heat source types is selected, an indication message carrying the target heat source type (i.e., the second indication message) is generated, where the target heat source type is one of the multiple heat source types. If the automatic selection option is selected, an indication message without the target heat source type is generated (i.e., the first indication message).

[0107] It is understandable that when the indication information carries the target heat source type, it indicates that the user expects the heat source type to be the target heat source type. This application embodiment will also respond to the indication information and identify the heat source type of the external heat source device that is actually connected to the water heater. Since the wiring of the heat source device needs to be done manually, for example, by the installation team or by the user to modify the wiring, unexpected situations such as wiring errors may occur, resulting in the identified heat source type being different from the target heat source type.

[0108] In response to the second instruction information, this application embodiment determines whether the identified heat source type is the same as the target heat source type. If so, it indicates that the target heat source type specified by the user is inconsistent with the heat source type of the external heat source device that has been connected and is ready to be used. Instruction information is generated, which can be used to instruct the user to check the installation status of the water heater or reselect the correct heat source type. This can promptly remind the user, facilitate the user to locate the problem, complete the rectification, reduce the impact, ensure the correctness of the operation and the safety of the user, and avoid the situation where the water heater may not be usable after the wiring is completed.

[0109] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0110] Based on the identified heat source type and the second mapping relationship, the target control strategy of the water heater is determined. The second mapping relationship includes the correspondence between each heat source type and each control strategy.

[0111] The operation of the water heater is controlled based on a target control strategy.

[0112] Understandably, after identifying the heat source type corresponding to the external heat source device connected to the water heater in response to the instruction information, a second mapping relationship can be pre-stored since different heat source types correspond to different control strategies. This mapping relationship includes the correspondence between heat source types and various control strategies. Based on the identified heat source type, the target control strategy of the water heater corresponding to the identified heat source type is searched in the second mapping relationship.

[0113] For example, if the identified heat source type is the same as that of the solar heat source module, the target control strategy is searched in the second mapping relationship, and the water heater is controlled to operate based on the target control strategy.

[0114] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0115] In response to the instruction, the temperature parameters of the water tank are obtained;

[0116] If the temperature parameter meets the set threshold, the heat source type of the external heat source device is determined to be the first heat source type; otherwise, the heat source signal type is obtained; the first heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the gas heat source device.

[0117] Understandably, the type of heat source for a gas-fired heating device can be determined by the temperature parameters of the water tank. This is because gas heating is typically highly efficient and heats up quickly, causing a significant change in water temperature within a short period.

[0118] It is understandable that the temperature parameter here refers to the temperature change value of the water tank within a set time interval. In response to the indication information, this temperature change value is acquired. If the temperature change value meets a set threshold, such as being greater than or equal to the set threshold, it indicates that the heating rate at this time conforms to the characteristics of a gas heat source, and the heat source type of the external heat source device connected to the water heater is the first heat source type. If the set threshold is not met, it indicates that the heat source type of the external heat source device is not the first heat source type. In this case, the heat source information type is acquired again, and the heat source type is identified based on the heat source signal type.

[0119] In some embodiments, identifying the heat source type of the heat source device based on the heat source signal type and a first mapping relationship includes:

[0120] If the heat source signal type is a temperature signal type or a switch signal type, then based on the first mapping relationship, the heat source type is determined to be the second heat source type, which is the heat source type corresponding to the solar thermal source device.

[0121] It is understandable that a solar thermal source device can provide heat to a water heater based on a temperature signal or a switch signal. The second heat source type is the type of heat source corresponding to the solar thermal source device.

[0122] Here, the first mapping relationship can pre-store the correspondence between temperature signals and the second heat source type, as well as the correspondence between switch signals and the second heat source type.

[0123] Here, if the signal type is a temperature signal type or a switch signal type, then based on the first mapping relationship, the heat source type is determined to be the second heat source type.

[0124] In some embodiments, the solar thermal source device includes: a first solar thermal source device that provides a heat source to a water heater based on a temperature signal and / or a second solar thermal source device that provides a heat source to a water heater based on a switch signal; the method further includes:

[0125] If the heat source signal type is a temperature signal type, then based on the first mapping relationship, the heat source type is determined to be the third heat source type; or,

[0126] If the heat source signal type is a switch signal type, then based on the first mapping relationship, the heat source type is determined to be the fourth heat source type;

[0127] Among them, the third heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the first solar heat source device, and the fourth heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the second solar heat source device.

[0128] It is understood that the solar thermal source device also includes a first solar thermal source device that provides heat to the water heater based on a temperature signal and / or a second solar thermal source device that provides heat to the water heater based on a switch signal, wherein the third heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the first solar thermal source device, and the fourth heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the second solar thermal source device.

[0129] Here, the first mapping relationship stores the correspondence between temperature signal type and third heat source type in advance, and the first mapping relationship stores the correspondence between switch signal type and fourth heat source type in advance.

[0130] Here, if the signal type is a temperature signal type, the heat source type is directly found and determined to be the third heat source type based on the first mapping relationship; or, if the signal type is a switch signal type, the heat source type corresponding to the switch signal type in the first mapping relationship is found based on the first mapping relationship, and the heat source type is determined to be the fourth heat source type based on the correspondence between the switch signal type and the fourth heat source type.

[0131] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0132] If the identified heat source type is the second heat source type, then obtain the water pump type corresponding to the water pump connected to the solar heat source device. The water pump type is either a fixed frequency water pump or a variable frequency water pump.

[0133] If the water pump is a fixed-frequency pump, its on / off state is controlled based on the temperature of the solar thermal source and the water tank; or,

[0134] If the pump type is a variable frequency pump, then determine the speed of the variable frequency pump; and control the operation of the variable frequency pump based on the speed.

[0135] The second heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the solar thermal source device.

[0136] Understandably, the water heater also includes a water tank and a water pump. One end of the external heat source device is connected to the water tank, and the other end of the external heat source device is connected to the water pump. The external heat source device also includes a solar heat source device, and the second heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the solar heat source device.

[0137] Understandably, if the identified heat source type is a secondary heat source type, then the control scheme for the water pump connected to the solar thermal source device can be further determined when the solar thermal source device provides the heat source. Different types of water pumps require different control schemes.

[0138] Here, we determine whether the water pump connected to the solar thermal source device is a fixed-frequency pump or a variable-frequency pump. For fixed-frequency pumps, their operating mode is relatively fixed and is mainly adjusted through on / off control. For variable-frequency pumps, the pump speed is mainly adjusted by changing the power supply frequency of the motor, thereby achieving continuous adjustment of the water circulation flow rate. This is primarily achieved by controlling the speed of the variable-frequency pump. Compared to fixed-frequency pumps that frequently start and stop, the smooth speed regulation of variable-frequency pumps reduces starting shock and mechanical wear, which helps extend the service life of the pump and other related components, and reduces maintenance costs.

[0139] Here, if the type of water pump is determined to be a fixed-frequency water pump, the embodiments of this application will determine whether the water pump needs to be started or stopped based on the current temperature of the solar heat source device and the temperature of the water in the water tank, thereby controlling the on / off state of the fixed-frequency water pump.

[0140] Here, if the pump type is determined to be a variable frequency pump, then the speed of the variable frequency pump is determined, and the operation of the variable frequency pump is controlled based on this speed.

[0141] In some embodiments, controlling the on / off state of a fixed-frequency water pump based on the temperature of the solar thermal source device and the temperature of the water tank includes:

[0142] If the temperature of the solar thermal source device is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold and the water tank temperature, and the water tank temperature is less than the second temperature threshold, then the switch state of the fixed frequency water pump is switched to the on state.

[0143] It's understandable that the first temperature threshold here is a critical temperature set for the solar thermal source device, representing the temperature value corresponding to its normal operation. When the temperature of the solar thermal source device reaches or exceeds this value, it indicates that the solar thermal collection system is working normally and can provide sufficient heat to heat the water. The second temperature threshold is the target or upper limit temperature set for the water temperature in the tank. When the water temperature in the tank is lower than this second temperature threshold, it indicates that the water in the tank has not yet reached the ideal operating temperature and needs to be heated further.

[0144] Understandably, if the temperature of the solar thermal source device is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold, it indicates that the solar system is working normally. If the temperature of the solar thermal source device is greater than or equal to the water tank temperature and the water tank temperature is less than the second temperature threshold, it indicates that the water in the tank needs to be further heated to reach the target temperature. In order to require more heat input, the switch of the fixed frequency water pump is turned on to accelerate the water circulation, thereby quickly transferring the heat generated by the solar thermal source device to the water tank and raising the water temperature.

[0145] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0146] The pump speed is determined based on the water tank temperature and a second temperature threshold.

[0147] It is understandable that the second temperature threshold is the target or upper limit temperature set for the water temperature in the tank. When the water temperature in the tank is lower than this second temperature threshold, it indicates that the water in the tank has not yet reached the ideal operating temperature and needs to be heated further.

[0148] Here, the pump speed can be determined based on the water tank temperature and a second temperature threshold.

[0149] In some embodiments, determining the pump speed based on the water tank temperature and a second temperature threshold includes:

[0150] If the difference between the water tank temperature and the second temperature threshold is greater than the upper limit of the set difference range, then the water pump speed is determined to be the maximum set speed.

[0151] If the difference between the water tank temperature and the second temperature threshold is less than the lower limit of the set difference range, then the water pump speed is determined to be the minimum set speed.

[0152] If the difference between the water tank temperature and the second temperature threshold falls within the set difference range, the pump speed is determined based on the difference and the preset ratio.

[0153] Understandably, when the difference between the water tank temperature and the second temperature threshold is much greater than the upper limit of the set difference range, it indicates that the water temperature in the tank is far below the desired temperature. The system then sets the water pump speed to the maximum set speed. This rapidly increases the water circulation speed, accelerates heat transfer, and helps reach the required water temperature as quickly as possible.

[0154] Here, if the difference is much smaller than the lower limit of the set difference range, it means that the water temperature in the tank is very close to or slightly higher than the target temperature. At this time, the system will reduce the water pump speed to the minimum set speed to reduce energy consumption, avoid overheating, and maintain a stable water temperature.

[0155] Here, if the difference between the water tank temperature and the second temperature threshold is within a set difference range, the water pump speed is determined by combining the difference with a preset proportional relationship.

[0156] For example, the preset proportional relationship is a linear slope calculated from (lower limit of the difference, minimum speed) and (upper limit of the difference, maximum speed). Based on this linear slope and the temperature difference, the pump speed can be calculated.

[0157] The embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to an application example.

[0158] This application example provides an automatic heat source type identification scheme for a water heater. In this example, the water heater is an air-source heat pump with electric auxiliary heating. This water heater can be connected to multiple external heat source devices. The heat source types of the external heat source devices include heat source type 1 (i.e., the aforementioned third heat source type), heat source type 2 (i.e., the aforementioned first heat source type), and heat source type 3 (i.e., the aforementioned fourth heat source type). The structural schematic diagrams of the water heaters with heat source types 1, 2, and 3 are shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3 above.

[0159] As shown in Figure 1, in this application example, heat source type 1 is the first solar heat source device 1 with temperature feedback. This device corresponds to the heat collection tube 11 with temperature feedback. The heat collection tube 11 collects heat to heat the hot water in the tube. The temperature value of the hot water in the tube can be input to the water tank controller 41 in real time through the temperature sensor 12. The water tank controller 41 controls the water pump 5 by the temperature difference between the temperature of the heat collection tube and the temperature of the water in the water tank.

[0160] As shown in Figure 2, heat source type 2 corresponds to gas-fired heat source device 2. When the water temperature in water tank 4 is too low and needs to be heated, this heat source is controlled to run for a certain period of time, and then the temperature rise is checked to see if it reaches a certain value. If it does, it can be turned on and off simultaneously with the electric heating or mutually exclusive, depending on the user's choice. If there is no temperature rise, this heat source is deemed invalid, and only the internal heat source is used for heating.

[0161] As shown in Figure 3, heat source type 3 corresponds to the second solar heat source device 3 with switch signal feedback, which corresponds to the solar collector tube with switch signal feedback. The solar collector tube collects heat to heat the hot water inside the tube. When the temperature of the hot water inside the tube reaches a certain value, a switch signal can be input to the water tank controller 41; the water tank controller 41 uses this signal to control the switch of the water pump 5.

[0162] Based on the above structure, please refer to Figure 5, which shows a flowchart of the automatic heat source type identification scheme. Based on this automatic identification scheme, embodiments of this application can automatically identify the heat source type and adopt corresponding control logic (i.e., the aforementioned target control strategy) without selecting a configuration scheme. Based on the detected wiring signal, it checks whether it matches the configuration scheme selected by the user; if not, a prompt is issued.

[0163] As shown in Figure 6, which is a schematic diagram of the control flow of the control board of the water heater in this application example, the control board is used to automatically identify the heat source type. In Figure 6, the first end of the control board is used to connect to the power supply, and the second end is used to receive input signals and output signals. The second end of the control board is connected to the wired controller, and the fourth end of the control board is connected to a storage device that stores power-off memory data and the aforementioned first and second mapping relationships.

[0164] The specific steps for automatic identification of heat source type are as follows:

[0165] Step 501: Power on the machine.

[0166] Here, after the user completes the wiring, the entire water heater is powered on, and the water heater is in standby mode.

[0167] Step 502: Determine whether automatic heat source type selection is required. If yes, proceed to steps 503-514 and step 531. If no, proceed to steps 515-531.

[0168] Here, it can be determined whether the heat source type needs to be automatically selected based on the user's settings for each option on the wired controller (human-machine interface). If yes, then steps 503-514 and step 531 are executed; if no, then steps 515-531 are executed.

[0169] For example, as shown in Figure 6, the human-computer interaction interface includes 5 options: no internal heat source, automatic selection, heat source type 1, heat source type 2, and heat source type 3.

[0170] Here, if the user sets the option to automatic identification, it means the user needs to automatically select the heat source type, and steps 503-514 and 531 are executed; if the user sets the option to heat source type 1, 2, or 3, it means the user believes that automatic selection of the heat source type is not necessary, and steps 515-531 are executed. If the user selects no internal heat source, automatic heat source identification is not required.

[0171] Step 503: Determine whether the heat source type has been confirmed. If yes, proceed to step 504; otherwise, proceed to step 505.

[0172] Here, when the user selects that the heat source type needs to be automatically selected, the control board program will first read the power-off memory data to determine whether the heat source type has been automatically determined. If yes, then step 504 is executed; otherwise, step 505 is executed.

[0173] Understandably, if the control board had automatically determined the heat source type before the power failure, this information would be stored in the power failure memory data. When the water heater is powered back on from the power failure state, the controller will first read the power failure memory data. If it finds that the heat source type has been confirmed, it will proceed to step 504.

[0174] Step 504: Execute step 531 according to the confirmed heat source type logic control.

[0175] Here, if the heat source type has been confirmed in the power failure memory, the logic control is performed according to the confirmed heat source type, and step 531 is executed. For example, if heat source type 1 has been confirmed, the water heater and the collector tube are directly controlled to heat the water tank according to the logic of heat source type 1, and step 531 is executed.

[0176] Step 505: Determine whether the heat source signal acquisition is complete. If yes, proceed to step 506; otherwise, proceed to step 505.

[0177] Here, if the control board determines that the heat source type has not yet been confirmed, it will start identifying the heat source type, start collecting the heat source signal, and determine whether the heat source signal collection is completed. If yes, it will execute step 506; otherwise, it will execute step 505.

[0178] Understandably, multiple sampling cycles can be repeated during heat source signal acquisition. In this application example, 10 cycles can be sampled to avoid false triggering (leading to incorrect heat source type identification). The control board program checks whether a round of signal acquisition has been completed. If not, it needs to wait for the sampling cycle to finish before acquiring the input signal, i.e., execute step 505; if completed, it executes step 506.

[0179] Step 506: Determine whether a heat source type 1 signal is detected. If yes, proceed to step 507; otherwise, proceed to step 508.

[0180] Here, after the heat source signal is acquired, it can be determined whether a heat source type 1 signal is detected based on the heat source signal type and the first mapping relationship. If yes, then step 507 is executed; otherwise, step 508 is executed.

[0181] Here, based on the heat source signal type and the first mapping relationship, the corresponding relationship between the heat source signal type and heat source type 1 is searched in the first mapping relationship to determine whether the heat source type 1 signal is detected. If the heat source signal type corresponds to the heat source type 1, it is determined that the heat source type 1 signal is detected and step 507 is executed; if they do not correspond, it is determined that the heat source type 1 signal is not detected and step 508 is executed.

[0182] For example, if a temperature signal of the heat collector tube is sampled and the temperature value is 28°C, then the heat source signal type is a temperature signal type. In the first mapping relationship, the corresponding heat source type 1 can be found and confirmed. Then it is determined that the heat source 1 signal has been detected, and step 507 is executed.

[0183] Step 508: Determine whether a heat source type 3 signal is detected. If yes, proceed to step 509; otherwise, proceed to steps 510-513.

[0184] Here, if no heat source type 1 signal is detected, then based on the heat source signal type and the first mapping relationship, it is determined whether a heat source type 3 signal is detected. If yes, then step 509 is executed; otherwise, steps 510-513 are executed.

[0185] Step 509: Control according to the logic of heat source type 3, and execute step 514.

[0186] Here, if a heat source type 3 signal is detected, it indicates that the heat source device connected to the water heater is the first solar heat source device. Then, the control logic corresponding to heat source type 3 is determined based on the second mapping relationship, and control is performed according to the logic of heat source type 3.

[0187] Step 510: Turn on heat source 2 separately.

[0188] If neither heat source type 1 signal nor heat source type 3 signal is detected, the water tank controller sends a control signal to the gas heat source device to control heat source 2 to turn on separately and execute step 511.

[0189] Step 511: After a certain period of time, determine whether there is a certain temperature rise. If yes, proceed to step 512; otherwise, proceed to step 513.

[0190] Here, after a certain period of time, it is determined whether the water in the tank has a certain temperature rise. If so, it indicates that the water in the tank meets the set threshold, and step 512 is executed. If not, step 513 is executed.

[0191] Step 512: Logic control according to heat source type 2.

[0192] Here, if it is determined after a certain period of time that the water in the tank has a certain temperature rise, it indicates that the heat source type is heat source type 2. The heat source device connected to the water heater is the second solar heat source device. Then, the control logic corresponding to heat source type 2 is determined based on the second mapping relationship, and control is performed according to the heat source type 2 logic, and step 514 is executed.

[0193] Step 513: No heat source detected, needs to be reassessed.

[0194] If heat source types 1, 2 and 3 are not automatically identified here, then no heat source is detected and a new judgment is required, and step 531 should be executed.

[0195] Step 514: Complete the heat source type confirmation, save the heat source type, and proceed to step 531.

[0196] Step 515: Determine whether the heat source signal acquisition is complete. If yes, proceed to step 516; otherwise, proceed to step 515.

[0197] It is understandable that if the user selects the heat source type (1, 2 or 3) by themselves, and the user does not automatically select the heat source type, the heat source type corresponding to the wiring completed by the user may be different from the heat source type selected by the user in the human-machine interface.

[0198] Here, if the user chooses not to automatically select the heat source and sets the heat source type themselves, the control board will still automatically identify the heat source type, thereby collecting the heat source signal and determining whether the heat source signal collection is complete. If yes, then proceed to step 516; otherwise, proceed to step 515.

[0199] Step 516: Determine whether it is set to heat source type 1. If yes, proceed to step 517; otherwise, proceed to step 518.

[0200] Here, based on the user's operation on the human-machine interface, it is determined whether the user has set the heat source type to heat source type 1 on the human-machine interface. If yes, then step 517 is executed; otherwise, step 518 is executed.

[0201] Step 517: Determine whether a heat source type 1 signal is detected. If yes, proceed to step 519; otherwise, proceed to step 520.

[0202] Here, after the heat source signal is collected, it can be determined whether a heat source type 1 signal is detected based on the heat source signal type and the first mapping relationship. If yes, then step 519 is executed; otherwise, step 520 is executed.

[0203] Step 518: Determine whether it is set to heat source type 3. If yes, proceed to step 521; otherwise, proceed to step 522.

[0204] Here, if no heat source type 1 signal is detected, it is further determined whether the user has set heat source type 3 in the human-computer interaction interface. If so, the identified heat source type is further compared with the heat source type, and step 521 is executed. If not, step 522 is executed.

[0205] Step 519: Logic control according to heat source type 1.

[0206] Here, if a heat source type 1 signal is detected, it indicates that the heat source device connected to the water heater is the first solar heat source device. Then, the control logic corresponding to heat source type 2 is determined based on the second mapping relationship, and the control is performed according to the heat source type 1 logic, and step 531 is executed.

[0207] Step 520: Warning of wiring error.

[0208] If no heat source type 1 signal is detected here, it indicates that the heat source type 1 set by the user is different from the identified heat source type. At this time, a wiring error may occur. The control board generates an indication message to remind the user of the wiring error and executes step 531.

[0209] Here, users can quickly check whether the type of heat source they need is heat source type 1 based on the reminder information. If not, they can change the type of heat source they need, and the machine will re-determine whether the setting type matches the wiring.

[0210] Step 521: Determine whether a heat source type 3 signal is detected. If yes, proceed to step 523; otherwise, proceed to step 524.

[0211] Here, when it is determined that the user is set to heat source type 3, the system determines whether heat source type 3 signal is detected based on the collected heat source signal and the first mapping relationship. If yes, step 523 is executed; otherwise, step 531 is executed.

[0212] Step 522: Determine whether it is set to heat source type 2. If yes, proceed to step 525; otherwise, proceed to step 531.

[0213] Here, if no heat source type 3 signal is detected, it is further determined whether the user has set heat source type 2 in the human-computer interaction interface. If yes, the identified heat source type is further compared with the heat source type 2 selected by the user, and step 525 is executed. If no, step 531 is executed.

[0214] Step 523: Logic control according to heat source type 3.

[0215] Step 524: Connect to the internet to read the local weather conditions and proceed to step 526.

[0216] Here, if the user sets heat source type 3, but the heat source type 3 signal is not detected, considering that it may be due to bad weather causing the solar heat source module to malfunction, in order to avoid misjudgment and generate an error message, step 526 is executed.

[0217] Step 525: Turn on heat source 2 separately.

[0218] Here, if it is determined that the user has not set heat source signal type 2, then heat source 2 is turned on in the same way as above, and step 528 is executed.

[0219] Step 526: Determine if the number of sunny days has exceeded the set number. If yes, proceed to step 527; otherwise, proceed to step 521.

[0220] Here, it is determined whether the number of sunny days has exceeded the set number. If so, the weather condition is good, indicating that a wiring error may have occurred, and step 528 is executed. If not, the heat source type 3 signal needs to be re-detected, and step 521 is executed.

[0221] Step 527: Warning of wiring error.

[0222] Step 528: After a certain period of time, determine whether there is a certain temperature rise. If yes, proceed to step 529; otherwise, proceed to step 530.

[0223] Step 529: Logic control according to heat source type 2.

[0224] Step 530: Warning of wiring error.

[0225] Step 531: End.

[0226] Furthermore, the choice between a variable frequency pump and a fixed frequency pump can be made based on actual needs. Different pump types correspond to different control logics.

[0227] 1. If a fixed-frequency water pump is selected, only the switch is controlled. (1) If the temperature of the collector tube is greater than the opening threshold and the temperature of the collector tube is greater than the water temperature in the tank and the water temperature in the tank has not reached the target water temperature, the fixed-frequency water pump is turned on to heat the water tank through the inner coil. (2) If the temperature of the collector tube is lower than the closing threshold; or the temperature of the collector tube is lower than the water temperature in the tank; or the water temperature in the tank has reached the target water temperature, the solar circulation pump is turned off and heating is stopped.

[0228] 2. If the actual configuration is a variable frequency water pump, the control logic is as follows: (1) The switching control of the water pump is the same as that of the fixed frequency pump; (2) The speed control of the water pump: When the actual water temperature of the water tank is close to the upper limit of the difference between the set target temperature and the actual water temperature of the water tank, the water pump outputs at the maximum speed to increase the flow rate of the hot water and accelerate the heat exchange efficiency; when the actual water temperature of the water tank is close to the lower limit of the difference between the set target temperature and the actual water temperature of the water tank, the water pump outputs at the minimum speed to maintain a small flow rate, without reducing the heat exchange efficiency and effectively saving energy; when the actual water temperature of the water tank is between the lower limit and the upper limit of the difference between the set target temperature and the actual water temperature of the water tank, the linear slope calculated according to the set parameters [lower limit of difference, minimum speed], [upper limit of difference, maximum speed] is substituted into the current temperature difference to calculate the current required water pump speed output.

[0229] Thus, this application example achieves the following through the above-mentioned automatic heat source type identification method: (1) When the configuration parameters of the heat source type are unknown, the water heater can automatically operate according to the control logic of the automatically identified heat source type by simply selecting the automatic heat source type through the human-machine interface on the wired controller. (2) If the installation team installs the wiring or the user corrects the wiring, and errors occur, timely reminders can be given to help the user locate the problem, complete the correction, and reduce the impact. (3) When the user's home experiences a heat source switch, such as switching from gas to more energy-efficient solar energy, the heat source type of the heat source device connected to the water heater can be automatically identified after the wiring correction is completed, thereby completing the heat source switch, improving the switching efficiency, and increasing user satisfaction.

[0230] In order to implement the method of the embodiments of this application, the embodiments of this application also provide a control device for a water heater. The control device for the water heater corresponds to the control method of the water heater described above, and the steps in the control method embodiments of the water heater are also fully applicable to the control device embodiments of this water heater.

[0231] As shown in Figure 7, the control device 700 of the water heater includes an acquisition module 701 and an identification module 702. The acquisition module 701 is configured to acquire indication information when the water heater is powered on; and in response to the indication information, acquire the heat source signal type of the external heat source device connected to the water heater; the identification module 702 is configured to identify the heat source type of the heat source device based on the heat source signal type and a first mapping relationship, wherein the first mapping relationship includes the correspondence between the heat source type of each external heat source device and the heat source signal type.

[0232] In some embodiments, the indication information is a first indication information that does not carry the target heat source type or a second indication information that carries the target heat source type. The control device 700 further includes a determination module 703, configured to determine whether the identified heat source type is the same as the target heat source type in response to the second indication information if the indication information is the second indication information. If not, a prompt message is generated.

[0233] In some embodiments, the determining module 703 is further configured to determine a target control strategy for the water heater based on the identified heat source type and a second mapping relationship, wherein the second mapping relationship includes the correspondence between each heat source type and each control strategy; the control device 700 further includes a control module 704 configured to control the operation of the water heater based on the target control strategy.

[0234] In some embodiments, the acquisition module 701 is further configured to acquire the temperature parameters of the water tank in response to the indication information; the determination module 703 is further configured to determine the heat source type of the external heat source device as a first heat source type if the temperature parameters meet a set threshold; otherwise, acquire the heat source signal type; the first heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the gas heat source device.

[0235] In some embodiments, the determining module 703 is further configured to determine the heat source type as a second heat source type based on the first mapping relationship if the heat source signal type is a temperature signal type or a switch signal type, wherein the second heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the solar thermal source device.

[0236] In some embodiments, the determining module 704 is further configured to determine the heat source type as a third heat source type based on the first mapping relationship if the heat source signal type is a temperature signal type; or, if the heat source signal type is a switch signal type, determine the heat source type as a fourth heat source type based on the first mapping relationship; wherein the third heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the first solar thermal source device, and the fourth heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the second solar thermal source device.

[0237] In some embodiments, the acquisition module 701 is further configured to, if the identified heat source type is a second heat source type, acquire the water pump type corresponding to the water pump connected to the solar heat source device, wherein the water pump type is a fixed-frequency water pump or a variable-frequency water pump; the control module 704 is further configured to, if the water pump type is a fixed-frequency water pump, control the on / off state of the fixed-frequency water pump based on the temperature of the solar heat source device and the temperature of the water tank; or, if the water pump type is a variable-frequency water pump, determine the speed of the variable-frequency water pump; and control the operation of the variable-frequency water pump based on the speed; wherein the second heat source type is the heat source type corresponding to the solar heat source device.

[0238] In some embodiments, the control module 704 is further configured to switch the on / off state of the fixed-frequency water pump to the on state if the temperature of the solar thermal source device is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold and the water tank temperature, and the water tank temperature is less than the second temperature threshold.

[0239] In some embodiments, the determining module 703 is further configured to determine the pump speed based on the temperature of the water tank and a second temperature threshold.

[0240] In some embodiments, the determining module 703 is further configured to: determine the water pump speed as the maximum set speed if the difference between the water tank temperature and the second temperature threshold is greater than the upper limit of the set difference range; determine the water pump speed as the minimum set speed if the difference between the water tank temperature and the second temperature threshold is less than the lower limit of the set difference range; and determine the water pump speed based on the difference and a preset proportional relationship if the difference between the water tank temperature and the second temperature threshold falls within the set difference range.

[0241] In practical applications, the acquisition module 701, identification module 702, determination module 703, and control module 704 can be implemented by the processor in the control device of the water heater. Of course, the processor needs to run the computer program in the memory to realize its functions.

[0242] It should be noted that the control device for the water heater provided in the above embodiments is only illustrated by the division of the above-described program modules when performing water heater testing. In actual applications, the above processing can be assigned to different program modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different program modules to complete all or part of the processing described above. In addition, the control device for the water heater and the water heater testing method embodiments provided in the above embodiments belong to the same concept, and the specific implementation process can be found in the method embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0243] Based on the hardware implementation of the above-described program modules, and in order to implement the method of this application embodiment, this application embodiment also provides a water heater. Figure 8 only shows an exemplary structure of the water heater and not the entire structure; some or all of the structures shown in Figure 8 can be implemented as needed.

[0244] As shown in Figure 8, the water heater 800 provided in this embodiment includes at least one processor 801, a memory 802, a user interface 803, and at least one network interface 804. The various components in the water heater 800 are coupled together via a bus system 808. It can be understood that the bus system 808 is used to realize the connection and communication between these components. In addition to a data bus, the bus system 808 also includes a power bus, a control bus, and a status signal bus. However, for clarity, all buses are labeled as bus system 808 in Figure 8.

[0245] The user interface 803 may include a monitor, keyboard, mouse, trackball, click wheel, buttons, touchpad, or touch screen.

[0246] The memory 802 in this embodiment is used to store various types of data to support the operation of the water heater. Examples of such data include any computer program used to operate the water heater.

[0247] The water heater control method disclosed in this application can be applied to or implemented by the processor 801. The processor 801 may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. During implementation, each step of the water heater control method can be completed by the integrated logic circuitry in the processor 801 or by software instructions. The processor 801 can be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. The processor 801 can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the method disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as execution by a hardware decoding processor, or execution by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software modules can be located in a storage medium, specifically memory 802. The processor 801 reads information from memory 802 and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the water heater control method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0248] In an exemplary embodiment, the water heater may be implemented by one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), DSPs, programmable logic devices (PLDs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), general-purpose processors, controllers, microcontrollers (MCUs), microprocessors, or other electronic components to perform the aforementioned method.

[0249] It is understood that memory 802 can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or both. Non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), ferromagnetic random access memory (FRAM), flash memory, magnetic surface memory, optical disc, or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM); magnetic surface memory can be disk storage or... Volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Synchronous Static Random Access Memory (SSRAM), Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM), Double Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (DDRSDRAM), Enhanced Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (ESDRAM), SyncLink Dynamic Random Access Memory (SLDRAM), and Direct Rambus Random Access Memory (DRRAM).The memories described in the embodiments of this application are intended to include, but are not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memories.

[0250] In an exemplary embodiment, this application also provides a computer storage medium, specifically a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon. This computer program can be executed by the processor of a water heater to complete the steps of the method described in this application. The computer-readable storage medium can be a memory such as ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, Flash Memory, magnetic surface memory, optical disc, or CD-ROM.

[0251] In an exemplary embodiment, this application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that can be executed by the processor of a water heater to complete the steps of the method of this application embodiment.

[0252] It should be noted that terms such as "first" and "second" are used to distinguish similar objects, and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence.

[0253] Furthermore, the technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application can be combined arbitrarily without conflict.

[0254] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A control method of a water heater connected with an external heat source device for providing a heat source to the water heater, the method comprising: obtaining indication information in a powered-on state of the water heater; obtaining a heat source signal type of the external heat source device connected with the water heater in response to the indication information; identifying a heat source type of the external heat source device based on the heat source signal type and a first mapping relationship, the first mapping relationship comprising a correspondence between heat source types of each external heat source device and each heat source signal type. The indication information is first indication information not carrying a target heat source type or second indication information carrying the target heat source type, and the method further comprises: if the indication information is the second indication information, determining whether the identified heat source type is the same as the target heat source type in response to the second indication information, and generating prompt information if not. The method further comprises: determining a target control strategy of the water heater based on the identified heat source type and a second mapping relationship, the second mapping relationship comprising a correspondence between each heat source type and each control strategy; and controlling the water heater to operate based on the target control strategy. The water heater further comprises a water tank connected with the external heat source device, and the external heat source device comprises a gas heat source device, and the method further comprises: obtaining a temperature parameter of the water tank in response to the indication information; and determining that the heat source type of the external heat source device is a first heat source type if the temperature parameter meets a set threshold, and obtaining the heat source signal type if not, the first heat source type being a heat source type corresponding to the gas heat source device.

2. The control method according to claim 1, wherein The external heat source device further comprises a solar heat source device, and the identifying of the heat source type of the external heat source device based on the heat source signal type and the first mapping relationship comprises: if the heat source signal type is a temperature signal type or a switch signal type, determining the heat source type to be a second heat source type based on the first mapping relationship, the second heat source type being a heat source type corresponding to the solar heat source device. The solar heat source device comprises a first solar heat source device providing a heat source to the water heater based on a temperature signal and / or a second solar heat source device providing a heat source to the water heater based on a switch signal, and the method further comprises: if the heat source signal type is the temperature signal type, determining the heat source type to be a third heat source type based on the first mapping relationship; or if the heat source signal type is the switch signal type, determining the heat source type to be a fourth heat source type based on the first mapping relationship, the third heat source type being a heat source type corresponding to the first solar heat source device, and the fourth heat source type being a heat source type corresponding to the second solar heat source device.

3. The control method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The water heater further comprises a water tank and a water pump, one end of the external heat source device is connected with the water tank, and the other end of the external heat source device is connected with the water pump, and the external heat source device further comprises a solar heat source device, and the method further comprises: ​ ​ 4. The control method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein ​ ​ ​ 5. The control method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein ​ ​ 6. The control method according to claim 5, wherein ​ ​ ​ ​ 7. The control method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein ​ If the identified heat source type is a second heat source type, a water pump type corresponding to a water pump connected to the solar heat source device is obtained, the water pump type being a fixed-frequency water pump or a variable-frequency water pump; If the water pump type is a fixed-frequency water pump, a switching state of the fixed-frequency water pump is controlled based on a temperature of the solar heat source device and a temperature of the water tank; or, If the water pump type is a variable-frequency water pump, a rotating speed of the variable-frequency water pump is determined; and the variable-frequency water pump is controlled to operate based on the rotating speed; The second heat source type is a heat source type corresponding to the solar heat source device.

8. The control method according to claim 7, wherein The controlling of the switching state of the fixed-frequency water pump based on the temperature of the solar heat source device and the temperature of the water tank comprises: If the temperature of the solar heat source device is greater than or equal to a first temperature threshold and the temperature of the water tank is less than a second temperature threshold, the switching state of the fixed-frequency water pump is switched to an on state.

9. The control method according to claim 7, wherein The method further comprises: The rotating speed of the water pump is determined based on the temperature of the water tank and the second temperature threshold.

10. The control method according to claim 9, wherein The determining of the rotating speed of the water pump based on the temperature of the water tank and the second temperature threshold comprises: If a difference between the temperature of the water tank and the second temperature threshold is greater than an upper limit value of a set difference interval, the rotating speed of the water pump is determined as a maximum set rotating speed; If the difference between the temperature of the water tank and the second temperature threshold is less than a lower limit value of the set difference interval, the rotating speed of the water pump is determined as a minimum set rotating speed; If the difference between the temperature of the water tank and the second temperature threshold falls within the set difference interval, the rotating speed of the water pump is determined based on the difference and a preset proportional relationship. 11.A control device of a water heater, the water heater being connected to an external heat source device for providing a heat source to the water heater, the control device comprising: an obtaining module configured to obtain indication information when the water heater is powered on; and in response to the indication information, obtain a heat source signal type of the external heat source device connected to the water heater; an identifying module configured to identify a heat source type of the heat source device based on the heat source signal type and a first mapping relationship, the first mapping relationship comprising a corresponding relationship between the heat source type of each external heat source device and each heat source signal type.

12. A water heater connected to an external heat source device for providing a heat source to the water heater, the water heater further comprising: a processor and a memory for storing a computer program capable of running on the processor, wherein the processor is configured to run the computer program to perform the steps of the method of any one of claims 1 to 10.

13. The water heater of claim 12, wherein, The water heater further comprises a water tank and a water pump, one end of the external heat source device being connected to the water tank, and the other end of the external heat source device being connected to the water pump.

14. The water heater of claim 13, wherein, The water tank comprises an inner coil pipe, the inner coil pipe being connected to one end of the external heat source device. 15.A computer storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, the computer program being executed by a water heater to implement the steps of the method of any one of claims 1 to 10.

16. A computer program product comprising a computer program which, when executed by a water heating machine, implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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