Control method, apparatus and system for gas water heater, and electronic device and gas water heater

Abstract

A control method, apparatus and system for a gas water heater, and an electronic device and a gas water heater. The control method comprises: in response to combustion initiation of a gas water heater, acquiring a flame image of the gas water heater; on the basis of the flame image, acquiring combustion characteristics of a flame, wherein the combustion characteristics comprise at least one of a combustion state and combustion parameters, and the combustion parameters are used for characterizing actual operating parameters of the gas water heater; and on the basis of the combustion characteristics, controlling the operation of the gas water heater.

Description

Control methods, devices, systems, electronic equipment, and gas water heaters

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411966490.0, filed on December 27, 2024, entitled "Control Method and Apparatus, System, Electronic Equipment and Gas Water Heater", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to the field of water heater technology, and in particular to a control method, device, system, electronic equipment, and gas water heater for a gas water heater. Background Technology

[0004] As people's living standards improve, their demands for the performance of home appliances are increasing. Currently, the control algorithm commonly used in gas water heaters is the PID control algorithm. When a user needs water, they turn on the switch, and the gas water heater starts igniting.

[0005] Existing gas water heater control methods often result in low combustion efficiency and low fuel utilization, leading to energy waste. Furthermore, they fail to effectively control harmful gas emissions, resulting in poor environmental performance. Additionally, gas water heaters pose safety risks such as carbon monoxide poisoning and backfire during combustion. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure provides a control method, device, system, electronic equipment, and gas water heater for a gas water heater.

[0007] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a method for controlling a gas water heater is provided, comprising:

[0008] Based on the start-up combustion of the gas water heater, obtain the flame image of the gas water heater;

[0009] Based on the flame image, the combustion characteristics of the flame are obtained. The combustion characteristics include at least one of the combustion state and combustion parameters. The combustion parameters are used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater.

[0010] The operation of the gas water heater is controlled based on the combustion characteristics.

[0011] In some embodiments, combustion parameters include the current air-fuel ratio, and controlling the operation of the gas water heater based on combustion characteristics includes:

[0012] Adjust the air-to-gas intake ratio in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio.

[0013] In some embodiments, adjusting the air-to-gas intake ratio in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio includes at least one of the following:

[0014] Adjust the opening of the gas proportional valve in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio;

[0015] Adjust the fan speed in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio;

[0016] Adjust the opening of the air proportioning valve in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio.

[0017] In some embodiments, the method further includes, prior to acquiring an image of the flame from the gas water heater:

[0018] Obtain the target load and control the gas proportional valve in the gas water heater to the first opening degree according to the target load. The first opening degree corresponds to the target load.

[0019] In some embodiments, combustion parameters include the current air-fuel ratio, and controlling the operation of the gas water heater based on combustion characteristics includes:

[0020] Adjust the air intake of the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio.

[0021] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0022] Based on the change in target load, proceed to the step of controlling the gas proportional valve in the gas water heater to the first opening degree according to the target load.

[0023] In some embodiments, controlling the operation of a gas water heater based on combustion characteristics includes:

[0024] Obtain the target parameters corresponding to the combustion parameters;

[0025] Adjust the gas intake volume and / or the opening of the water inlet valve in the gas water heater according to the combustion parameters and target parameters.

[0026] The combustion parameters include the current combustion load or flame temperature. The target parameters corresponding to the current combustion load include the target load, and the target parameters corresponding to the flame temperature include the target outlet water temperature.

[0027] In some embodiments, the combustion feature further includes a combustion state, which includes a first preset state and a second preset state. The first preset state includes a normal combustion state; the second preset state includes at least one of flameout, flashback, flame removal, and unstable flame. The method further includes:

[0028] If the combustion state is in the second preset state, determine whether the combustion state changes from the second preset state to the first preset state within a preset time.

[0029] Based on the combustion state remaining in a second preset state for a preset time, the gas water heater is controlled to perform preset protective operations.

[0030] In some embodiments, the combustion state includes a first preset state and a second preset state. The first preset state includes a normal combustion state; the second preset state includes at least one of flameout, backfire, flame removal, and flame instability.

[0031] Based on combustion characteristics, the operation of the gas water heater is controlled, including:

[0032] Based on the combustion state being the second preset state, the gas water heater is controlled to perform preset protective operations.

[0033] In some embodiments, combustion characteristics include combustion parameters, including flame temperature. Controlling the operation of the gas water heater based on these combustion characteristics includes:

[0034] When the flame temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold, the gas water heater is controlled to enter the overheat protection state.

[0035] In some embodiments, combustion characteristics include combustion parameters, including the concentration of harmful gases. Controlling the operation of the gas water heater based on these combustion characteristics includes:

[0036] If the concentration of harmful gases is greater than or equal to the first preset value, at least an early warning will be generated and the fan speed in the gas water heater will be increased.

[0037] If the concentration of harmful gas is greater than or equal to the second preset value, the gas valve will be shut off.

[0038] The second preset value is greater than the first preset value.

[0039] In some embodiments, obtaining the combustion characteristics of a flame based on a flame image includes:

[0040] Feature extraction is performed on the flame image to obtain the flame feature information;

[0041] Based on flame characteristic information, combustion characteristics are obtained.

[0042] In some embodiments, feature extraction is performed on the flame image to obtain flame feature information, including:

[0043] Input the flame image into a preset flame feature extraction model to obtain flame feature information; or,

[0044] Image recognition technology was used to extract features from flame images to obtain flame feature information.

[0045] In some embodiments, obtaining the combustion characteristics of a flame based on flame characteristic information includes:

[0046] Flame feature information is input into a preset combustion feature determination model to obtain combustion features.

[0047] In some embodiments, flame feature information includes at least one of the following: color distribution features, brightness variation features, morphological features, and temporal features.

[0048] In some embodiments, obtaining the combustion characteristics of a flame based on a flame image includes:

[0049] The flame image is input into a preset neural network model to obtain combustion features.

[0050] In some embodiments, obtaining the combustion characteristics of a flame based on a flame image includes:

[0051] Send the flame image to the server;

[0052] The server receives the combustion features, which are obtained by the server based on the flame image.

[0053] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a control method for a gas water heater is provided, applied to a server, the method comprising:

[0054] Receive flame images from the client;

[0055] Based on the flame image, the combustion characteristics of the flame are obtained. The combustion characteristics include at least one of the combustion state and combustion parameters. The combustion parameters are used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater of the client.

[0056] The system returns combustion characteristics to the client, enabling the client to control the operation of the gas water heater based on these characteristics.

[0057] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a control device for a gas water heater is provided, comprising:

[0058] The first acquisition module is used to acquire the flame image of the gas water heater when the gas water heater starts combustion;

[0059] The second acquisition module acquires the combustion characteristics of the flame based on the flame image. The combustion characteristics include at least one of the combustion state and combustion parameters. The combustion parameters are used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater.

[0060] The control module is used to control the operation of the gas water heater based on combustion characteristics.

[0061] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, a control device for a gas water heater is provided, applied to a server, the device comprising:

[0062] The receiving module is used to receive flame images from the client;

[0063] The third acquisition module is used to acquire the combustion characteristics of the flame based on the flame image. The combustion characteristics include at least one of the combustion state and combustion parameters. The combustion parameters are used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater of the client.

[0064] The sending module is used to return combustion characteristics to the client, so that the client can control the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion characteristics.

[0065] According to a fifth aspect of this disclosure, a control system for a gas water heater is provided, comprising:

[0066] The client is used to acquire a flame image of the gas water heater when combustion is started, and send the flame image to the server; and to receive combustion characteristics returned by the server, and control the operation of the gas water heater according to the combustion characteristics; wherein, the combustion characteristics include at least one of combustion state and combustion parameters, and the combustion parameters are used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater;

[0067] The server is used to receive flame images from clients; obtain the combustion characteristics of the flames based on the flame images; and return the combustion characteristics to the clients.

[0068] According to a sixth aspect of this disclosure, an electronic device is provided, characterized in that it comprises:

[0069] At least one processor; and

[0070] A memory that is communicatively connected to at least one processor; wherein,

[0071] The memory stores instructions that can be executed by at least one processor, which, when executed by at least one processor, enables the at least one processor to perform any of the control methods of this disclosure.

[0072] According to a seventh aspect of this disclosure, a gas water heater is provided, comprising:

[0073] The image acquisition module is used to acquire images of the flames;

[0074] Gas valve and water inlet valve;

[0075] The controller is configured to perform any of the control methods disclosed herein.

[0076] The technical solution of this disclosure embodiment acquires a flame image of the gas water heater after it starts combustion, and obtains combustion characteristics based on the flame image. The combustion characteristics include at least one of combustion state and combustion parameters. The combustion parameters are used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater, thus realizing real-time monitoring of the operating parameters of the gas water heater. Furthermore, the operation of the gas water heater can be controlled according to the combustion characteristics, so that the combustion of the gas water heater is closed-loop controlled. This makes the gas water heater closer to the ideal combustion state, which is conducive to improving fuel utilization, reducing energy waste, reducing harmful gas emissions, reducing safety hazards during combustion, and improving environmental performance.

[0077] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of this disclosure, nor is it intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Other features of this disclosure will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0078] The accompanying drawings are provided to better understand this solution and do not constitute a limitation of this disclosure. Wherein:

[0079] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a control method for a gas water heater according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0080] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the control flow of a gas water heater according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0081] Figure 3 is a structural block diagram of a control device for a gas water heater according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0082] Figure 4 is a structural block diagram of the control device of a gas water heater in another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0083] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0084] The exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, including various details of the embodiments to aid understanding, and should be considered merely exemplary. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications can be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Similarly, for clarity and brevity, descriptions of well-known functions and structures are omitted in the following description.

[0085] A gas water heater, also known as a gas water boiler, is a gas appliance that uses gas as fuel and heats water by transferring heat to cold water flowing through a heat exchanger. A gas water heater mainly consists of a valve assembly, main burner, pilot burner, heat exchanger, and safety devices. It may also include the flue of a flue-type water heater and the forced draft device of a forced draft water heater. The valve assembly controls the entire operation of the water heater and includes the water valve, gas valve, fan, microswitch, and igniter.

[0086] The gas proportional valve in a gas water heater is a key component for regulating gas flow. By adjusting the opening of the proportional valve, the amount of gas entering the combustion chamber can be precisely controlled, thereby affecting the air-fuel ratio during combustion.

[0087] In related technologies, gas water heaters can detect inlet water temperature, outlet water temperature, and water flow rate. These three indicators are used to control operating parameters such as the opening degree of the gas proportional valve in the gas water heater. The opening degree of the gas proportional valve determines the gas intake volume, and based on the combustion ratio of gas and oxygen, the air intake volume can be determined, thereby achieving the air-fuel ratio. Although related technologies set the opening degree of the gas proportional valve based on the inlet water temperature, outlet water temperature, and water flow rate to achieve the air-fuel ratio, a closed-loop control of the combustion air-fuel ratio is not formed. Moreover, in actual use, the gas supply pressure and concentration often deviate from the standard values, resulting in low combustion efficiency, low fuel utilization, and energy waste.

[0088] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a control method for a gas water heater according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 1, the control method for the gas water heater includes steps S11 to S13.

[0089] In step S11, the flame image of the gas water heater is acquired based on the start-up of combustion of the gas water heater.

[0090] Normally, gas water heaters are in a standby state. When a user needs to use the gas water heater, the user turns on the water supply switch (such as a faucet) to trigger the water supply command. The water flow sensor detects the water flow, and the processor obtains the signal of the water flow, thereby determining that the gas water heater should start combustion.

[0091] The specific process of starting combustion in a gas water heater is as follows: First, with both the gas inlet valve and the water inlet valve of the gas water heater open and the power connected, the hot water valve is opened. Water then enters the water heater and flows through the water flow sensor to the heating pipes in the heat exchanger. When the water flow sensor detects that the water flow has reached the set value, the processor controls the combustion fan to start. When the fan speed reaches the set value, both the main gas valve and the proportional gas valve open, allowing gas to enter the burner. Simultaneously, the igniter causes a spark discharge at the ignition needle, igniting the burner and starting combustion. The flame detection rod located at the top of the burner detects the flame signal and illuminates the combustion indicator light through the control circuit, maintaining combustion and achieving the start-up combustion of the gas water heater. During the start-up combustion of the gas water heater, the opening degree of the proportional gas valve can be a preset initial opening degree.

[0092] An image acquisition module can be installed inside the gas water heater. The image acquisition module can be set in a suitable position so that it can capture images of the flame when the gas water heater is burning.

[0093] After the gas water heater starts combustion, the image acquisition module acquires an initial flame image. For example, the image acquisition module can have a built-in image preprocessing chip. After the image acquisition module acquires the initial flame image, the built-in image preprocessing chip performs real-time noise reduction, contrast enhancement, and other processing on the initial flame image. The processed image is the acquired flame image.

[0094] The image acquisition module can employ a high-sensitivity complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor with a resolution of no less than 1280*720 and a frame rate of no less than 60fps. The image acquisition module can be equipped with an infrared filter to enhance its flame feature capture capability. Preferably, the image acquisition module adopts a waterproof and high-temperature resistant design, with an operating temperature range of -20℃ to 150℃.

[0095] The image acquisition module can continuously acquire initial flame images at a frame rate of 60fps, perform real-time image processing on each initial flame image, and obtain multiple flame images or a sequence of flame images.

[0096] In step S12, the combustion characteristics of the flame are obtained based on the flame image. The combustion characteristics include at least one of the combustion state and combustion parameters, which are used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater.

[0097] For example, combustion parameters can include at least one of the following: current combustion load, current air-fuel ratio, and flame temperature. The current air-fuel ratio is the mixing ratio of air and gas in the current combustion process. The current combustion load can be understood as the heat load that the current combustion can provide; heat load refers to the heat released per unit time when the fuel burns in the burner, and is relative to the target load (demand load). Flame temperature can be the average temperature within the flame area. There is a certain relationship between flame temperature and outlet water temperature, so flame temperature can indirectly characterize outlet water temperature. Air-fuel ratio, heat load, and outlet water temperature are all operating parameters of a gas water heater; therefore, combustion parameters can characterize the actual operating parameters of a gas water heater.

[0098] In step S13, the operation of the gas water heater is controlled according to the combustion characteristics.

[0099] In related technologies, gas water heaters can store a curve showing the relationship between load and the gas proportional valve. The load can be the user's required heat load, i.e., the target load. Once the target load is determined, the processor can determine the opening degree of the gas proportional valve based on the preset relationship between the load and the gas proportional valve. Based on the target load, the gas demand can also be determined, and consequently, the air demand.

[0100] The preset relationships stored inside a gas water heater are all relative to standard pressure and standard concentration of gas. In real life, the gas supply pressure and concentration fluctuate or differ from the standard pressure and standard concentration due to regional differences. This causes the actual combustion state of the gas water heater to fail to reach the ideal combustion state, resulting in a difference between the gas demand and air demand determined according to the target load and the target.

[0101] In related technologies, the control of gas water heaters, after controlling the opening of the gas proportional valve according to the target load, suffers from problems such as low fuel utilization, energy waste, and poor environmental performance due to the lack of closed-loop control of the air-fuel ratio. Furthermore, the inability to achieve real-time monitoring leads to large fluctuations in water temperature, unstable hot water supply, and significant noise.

[0102] The technical solution of this disclosure embodiment acquires a flame image of the gas water heater after it starts combustion, and obtains combustion characteristics based on the flame image. The combustion characteristics include at least one of combustion state and combustion parameters. The combustion parameters are used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater, thus realizing real-time monitoring of the operating parameters of the gas water heater. Furthermore, the operation of the gas water heater can be controlled according to the combustion characteristics, so that the combustion of the gas water heater is closed-loop controlled. This makes the gas water heater closer to the ideal combustion state, which is conducive to improving fuel utilization, reducing energy waste, reducing harmful gas emissions, reducing safety hazards during combustion, and improving environmental performance.

[0103] In addition, by monitoring the combustion parameters, the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater can be monitored in real time, which in turn allows for adjustment of the gas water heater's operating parameters, reducing water temperature fluctuations and noise, resulting in a more stable supply of hot water, better meeting user needs, and improving user satisfaction.

[0104] In one embodiment, obtaining the combustion characteristics of a flame based on a flame image may include: extracting features from the flame image to obtain flame feature information; and determining the combustion characteristics based on the flame feature information.

[0105] Flame feature information can include at least one of the following: color distribution features, brightness variation features, morphological features, and temporal features. Since there are various flame shapes, the characteristics of the flame can be determined based on the flame shape of the gas water heater, and then the corresponding flame feature information can be determined based on the flame image.

[0106] When a flame image consists of multiple consecutive frames, the flame feature information of each image can be determined, thereby identifying the flame feature information sequence corresponding to the consecutive frames. Based on this sequence, temporal features can be determined, which can be understood as the variation characteristics between consecutive frames.

[0107] In practice, the operating parameters of gas water heaters are typically adjusted periodically, and multiple flame images can usually be acquired within a single cycle. Feature extraction is performed on each flame image to obtain its flame characteristic information. The average value of the flame characteristic information from multiple flame images can be used to calculate the flame characteristic information for that cycle. Furthermore, based on the multiple flame images within a cycle, the temporal characteristics of that cycle can be determined.

[0108] In one embodiment, to obtain flame feature information, image recognition technology can be used to extract features from the flame image. For example, the RGB / HSV histogram of the flame image can be calculated to obtain the color distribution features of the flame image. The mean, variance, and peak value of the flame image can be extracted to obtain the brightness variation features of the flame image. The outline, area, and perimeter of the flame can be calculated to obtain the morphological features of the flame.

[0109] In another embodiment, the flame image can be input into a preset flame feature extraction model to obtain flame feature information.

[0110] The flame feature extraction model can be based on a first neural network model. The first neural network model is pre-trained, and the trained first neural network model serves as the flame feature extraction model. After inputting a flame image into the flame feature extraction model, the model can output flame feature information.

[0111] The specific model of the first neural network model is not limited here. A deep learning model based on flame recognition can be selected, and flame images can be used as samples to train it to obtain a flame feature extraction model.

[0112] The flame feature extraction model can use an ARM Cortex-A72 architecture processor with a main frequency of no less than 1.5GHz, equipped with a dedicated neural network accelerator, support 8-bit quantization inference, support multi-dimensional feature extraction, and integrate a state judgment algorithm based on decision trees.

[0113] In one embodiment, determining combustion characteristics based on flame feature information may include: inputting flame feature information into a preset combustion feature determination model to obtain combustion characteristics.

[0114] The combustion feature determination model can be based on a second neural network model. The second neural network model is pre-trained, and the trained model serves as the combustion feature determination model. After inputting flame feature information into the combustion feature determination model, it can output combustion parameters and combustion state.

[0115] In one embodiment, the first neural network model and the second neural network model can be convolutional neural networks.

[0116] In one embodiment, determining the combustion characteristics of a flame based on a flame image may include: inputting the flame image into a preset neural network model to obtain the combustion characteristics.

[0117] In this embodiment, the third neural network model is pre-trained, and the trained third neural network model is the preset neural network model. After inputting the flame image into the preset neural network model, the preset neural network model can output combustion parameters and combustion state. In this embodiment, flame feature information is no longer needed; instead, combustion parameters are obtained directly from the flame image.

[0118] In another embodiment, the gas water heater client can interact with a server. A flame image can be sent to the server, which then obtains combustion characteristics based on the flame image. The gas water heater client receives the combustion characteristics returned by the server. In this way, the combustion characteristic acquisition process is performed on the server, reducing the computational load on the gas water heater client and improving the performance of the gas water heater.

[0119] The process by which the server obtains combustion features from the flame image is the same as the process by which the gas water heater client obtains flame combustion features from the flame image, as described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0120] To control a gas water heater, it can include a control module. This module can use a 32-bit microcontroller (MCU) as the main controller, such as the STM32F4 series. A high-precision stepper motor-driven proportional gas valve can be used, achieving a control accuracy of 0.1% F·S. A brushless DC motor-driven centrifugal fan with an adjustable speed range of 500–5000 rpm can be employed. The control module can integrate multiple pulse width modulation (PWM) outputs for precise control of the gas valve and fan. The control module can also utilize an RS485 communication interface for broader communication and interaction capabilities.

[0121] In one embodiment, the combustion parameters include the current air-fuel ratio. Controlling the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion characteristics may include: adjusting the ratio of air to gas intake in the gas water heater based on the current air-fuel ratio.

[0122] The current air-fuel ratio is obtained from the flame image and refers to the ratio of air to fuel gas in the current combustion process. When the air-fuel ratio is suitable, the fuel gas can burn completely, reducing the production of harmful gases. When the air-fuel ratio is unsuitable, the fuel gas will burn incompletely, producing more harmful gases.

[0123] To ensure complete combustion of gas, gas water heaters typically need to determine the oxygen demand based on the gas intake volume, and thus the air demand. Generally, the target air-fuel ratio (FAR) can be determined based on the region where the gas water heater is used and the composition of the gas available in that region. This target FAR can be pre-stored in the gas water heater's controller.

[0124] The target air-fuel ratio is the ratio of air to gas required for complete combustion of a gas fuel. The target air-fuel ratio can be determined based on the composition of the gas fuel. For example, if the gas fuel is methane, the ratio of oxygen to methane can be calculated based on the complete combustion of methane. The ratio of air to methane can then be calculated based on the oxygen content in the air. When the geographical environment of the gas water heater and the composition of the gas fuel are specific, the target air-fuel ratio is fixed and usually does not change.

[0125] Based on the difference between the current air-fuel ratio and the target air-fuel ratio, the air-to-gas intake ratio in the gas water heater can be adjusted to make the actual air-fuel ratio during combustion closer to the target air-fuel ratio, thus ensuring complete combustion of the gas.

[0126] The intake volume of natural gas is typically controlled by a natural gas proportional valve. The intake volume of air can be controlled by a fan or an air proportional valve.

[0127] Therefore, in one embodiment, adjusting the air-to-gas intake ratio in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio may include: adjusting the opening degree of the gas proportional valve in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio.

[0128] For example, when the current air-fuel ratio is less than the target air-fuel ratio, it indicates insufficient air or excessive gas. The opening of the gas proportional valve can be reduced to decrease the gas intake, thereby increasing the actual air-fuel ratio and making the actual air-fuel ratio closer to the target air-fuel ratio.

[0129] For example, when the current air-fuel ratio is greater than the target air-fuel ratio, it indicates that there is too much air or not enough fuel. The opening of the fuel proportional valve can be increased to increase the amount of fuel entering the system, thereby reducing the actual air-fuel ratio and making the actual air-fuel ratio closer to the target air-fuel ratio.

[0130] In another embodiment, adjusting the air-to-gas intake ratio in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio may include adjusting the fan speed in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio.

[0131] For example, when the current air-fuel ratio is less than the target air-fuel ratio, it indicates insufficient air. The fan speed can be increased to increase the air intake, thereby increasing the actual air-fuel ratio and making the actual air-fuel ratio closer to the target air-fuel ratio.

[0132] For example, when the current air-fuel ratio is greater than the target air-fuel ratio, it indicates that there is excess air. The fan speed can be reduced to reduce the amount of air intake, thereby reducing the actual air-fuel ratio and making the actual air-fuel ratio closer to the target air-fuel ratio.

[0133] In another embodiment, adjusting the air-to-gas intake ratio in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio may include: adjusting the opening degree of the air proportioning valve in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio.

[0134] For example, when the current air-fuel ratio is less than the target air-fuel ratio, it indicates insufficient air. The opening of the air proportioning valve can be increased to increase the air intake, thereby increasing the actual air-fuel ratio and making the actual air-fuel ratio closer to the target air-fuel ratio.

[0135] For example, when the current air-fuel ratio is greater than the target air-fuel ratio, it indicates that there is excess air. The opening of the air proportioning valve can be reduced to reduce the amount of air intake, thereby reducing the actual air-fuel ratio and making the actual air-fuel ratio closer to the target air-fuel ratio.

[0136] It should be noted that when adjusting the fan speed, the opening of the air proportional valve, or the opening of the gas proportional valve, a step-by-step adjustment can be used to gradually adjust the air-fuel ratio of the actual combustion, which is beneficial to the stability of the gas water heater.

[0137] This embodiment achieves closed-loop control of the air-fuel ratio, enabling real-time monitoring and adjustment of the air-to-gas intake ratio in the gas water heater. This promotes complete fuel combustion, improves fuel utilization, avoids energy waste, and reduces harmful gas emissions, thus enhancing environmental performance. Experiments have shown that using this control method improves combustion efficiency by approximately 15%–20%, significantly enhances energy utilization, reduces carbon monoxide emissions by over 30%, and reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by approximately 20%.

[0138] The control method of this disclosure, through closed-loop control of the air-fuel ratio, makes the air-fuel ratio closer to the desired value, so that the gas water heater is no longer limited by region, expands the range of adaptable gas pressure fluctuations, improves combustion efficiency, ensures complete combustion of fuel, improves environmental performance, and can adapt to fluctuations in gas supply.

[0139] In the above embodiment, when the gas water heater is started, the opening degree of the gas proportional valve can be a preset initial opening degree. The specific value of the preset initial opening degree can be set as needed.

[0140] In another embodiment, before acquiring the flame image of the gas water heater, the method further includes: acquiring a target load, and controlling the gas proportional valve in the gas water heater to a first opening degree according to the target load, wherein the first opening degree corresponds to the target load. That is, in this embodiment of the disclosure, the control method for the gas water heater may include steps S21 to S24.

[0141] In step S21, it is determined that the gas water heater has started combustion.

[0142] In step S22, the target load is obtained, and the gas proportional valve in the gas water heater is controlled to the first opening degree according to the target load. The first opening degree corresponds to the target load.

[0143] In step S23, an image of the flame from the gas water heater is acquired.

[0144] In step S24, the combustion characteristics of the flame are obtained based on the flame image. The combustion characteristics include at least one of the combustion state and combustion parameters, which are used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater.

[0145] In step S25, the operation of the gas water heater is controlled according to the combustion characteristics.

[0146] The target load, also known as the demand load, refers to the amount of heat released per unit time when fuel burns in the burner to meet the user's desired target temperature. After a user triggers a water usage command, and assuming the gas water heater is activated, the target load is determined based on parameters such as the target temperature of the water usage command, the inlet water temperature, and the water flow rate. In other words, the target load is fixed when the user starts the machine. Once the target load is determined, the initial opening degree of the gas proportional valve can be determined based on the correspondence between the load and the gas proportional valve, thus controlling the gas proportional valve to operate at its initial opening degree. Furthermore, the air-to-gas intake ratio can be adjusted according to the current air-fuel ratio.

[0147] In related technologies, after the gas proportional valve operates at its first opening, the air intake volume is calculated based on the target air-fuel ratio, and the fan is controlled to move at a certain speed to achieve air intake, with the aim of achieving the target air-fuel ratio. However, due to fluctuations in gas supply pressure, composition, and gas pressure, the actual intake volume of gas and air does not meet the target air-fuel ratio.

[0148] In this embodiment, the gas proportional valve is adjusted to the first opening degree according to the target load, and then steps S23-S25 are executed. This achieves real-time adjustment and control of the air-fuel ratio during actual combustion while meeting the target load, which helps to ensure complete combustion of gas and improve the environmental performance of the product.

[0149] It is generally believed that when the gas proportional valve operates at its first opening, the target load requirements can be met. When the current air-fuel ratio does not meet the required air-fuel ratio, it can be considered as either excessive or insufficient air. Therefore, controlling the operation of a gas water heater based on combustion characteristics can include adjusting the air intake of the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio. This method reduces the complexity of gas water heater adjustment, achieves the target air-fuel ratio more quickly, and ensures complete combustion of the gas.

[0150] When calculating the target load, the target temperature is the user's desired set temperature, which can be a pre-stored default temperature value (e.g., the default temperature values ​​for winter and summer can be different), or it can be a temperature manually entered by the user. The target temperature can change as the user-set temperature changes. The demand load is determined based on the temperature difference between the target temperature and the inlet water temperature. This temperature difference, along with the real-time outlet water flow rate, determines the target load for the gas water heater. The target load may change during gas combustion.

[0151] The control method may also include: determining whether the target load has changed; and, if the target load has changed, proceeding to the step of controlling the gas proportional valve in the gas water heater to the first opening degree according to the target load, i.e., returning to step S22. In other words, if the target load changes during the combustion process of the gas water heater, steps S22-S25 need to be executed. Each time the target load changes, a new first opening degree needs to be determined, and the gas proportional valve needs to be adjusted to the new first opening degree before executing steps S23-S25. This method avoids starting the adjustment from the initial air intake every time the target load changes, thus improving the efficiency of air intake adjustment.

[0152] In another embodiment, if the target load remains unchanged, the process proceeds to the step of acquiring the flame image of the gas water heater, i.e., returning to step S23. In other words, if the target load does not change during the combustion process of the gas water heater, there is no need to adjust the gas proportional valve; only steps S23-S25 need to be executed.

[0153] In one embodiment, controlling the operation of a gas water heater based on combustion characteristics may include: acquiring target parameters corresponding to combustion parameters; adjusting the gas intake volume and / or the opening degree of the water inlet valve in the gas water heater based on the combustion parameters and the target parameters; wherein the combustion parameters include the current combustion load or flame temperature, the target parameter corresponding to the current combustion load is the target load, and the target parameter corresponding to the flame temperature is the outlet water target temperature.

[0154] Current combustion load refers to the actual heat released per unit time when the fuel is burning in the burner.

[0155] It is understandable that the outlet water temperature is the temperature of the water in the outlet pipe after the gas water heater has started combustion, and it can be detected by a temperature sensor installed in the outlet pipe. There is a certain relationship between the flame temperature and the outlet water temperature; the flame temperature can indirectly reflect the outlet water temperature.

[0156] When the combustion parameters are the current combustion load, the target load is obtained; based on the current combustion load and the target load, the opening degree of the gas valve and / or the water inlet valve in the gas water heater is adjusted. The gas valve here can be a proportional valve or a gas control valve, which controls the gas intake volume.

[0157] When the combustion parameter is the flame temperature, obtain the target outlet water temperature; based on the flame temperature and the target outlet water temperature, adjust the opening degree of the gas valve and / or the opening degree of the water inlet valve in the gas water heater.

[0158] When the current combustion load is less than the target load or the flame temperature is low, it indicates that the heat released by the current combustion is insufficient to meet the demand. In this case, it is necessary to adjust the opening of the gas valve, for example, by increasing the opening of the gas control valve, thereby increasing the gas intake to increase the combustion load. When the current combustion load is greater than the target load or the flame temperature is too high, it indicates that the heat released by the current combustion exceeds the required heat. In this case, the opening of the gas control valve can be reduced to decrease the gas intake, thereby reducing the combustion load and avoiding fuel waste.

[0159] In addition, the opening of the water inlet valve can be adjusted. For example, when the current combustion load is less than the target load or the flame temperature is low, the opening of the water inlet valve can be reduced to prevent the outlet water temperature from being too low; when the current combustion load is greater than the target load or the flame temperature is too high, the opening of the water inlet valve can be increased to prevent the outlet water temperature from being too high and scalding the user.

[0160] In related technologies, after a gas water heater starts combustion, the target gas demand is calculated based on the target load. The second opening degree of the gas valve is then calculated based on this target demand, and the gas valve is controlled to operate at this second opening degree. However, due to variations in actual gas concentration, when the gas valve operates at the second opening degree, there is a difference between the amount of gas entering the gas water heater and the target gas demand.

[0161] In this embodiment, based on the current combustion load and / or flame temperature, and the target load, the difference between the current combustion load and / or flame temperature and the target load can be compared. The opening degree of the gas valve and / or the water inlet valve is adjusted according to the difference, achieving closed-loop control of the gas valve opening degree and / or the water inlet valve opening degree. This allows for real-time monitoring and adjustment of the gas water heater's operating parameters, better achieving the target load. Using the control method of this embodiment, hot water temperature fluctuations can be controlled within ±1℃.

[0162] In one embodiment, the combustion feature further includes a combustion state, which includes a first preset state and a second preset state. The first preset state includes a normal combustion state; the second preset state includes at least one of flameout, backfire, flame removal, and unstable flame. The control method may further include: if the combustion state is the second preset state, determining whether the combustion state changes from the second preset state to the first preset state within a preset time; and controlling the gas water heater to perform a preset protective operation based on the combustion state remaining in the second preset state within the preset time.

[0163] The normal combustion state of the flame can be determined based on the specific gas water heater product, and different gas water heaters may have different normal combustion states. The normal combustion states corresponding to different loads may be the same or different. Based on the flame image, it can be determined whether the flame is in a normal combustion state. When it is in a normal combustion state, the gas water heater can be controlled according to the scheme disclosed herein.

[0164] When the combustion state is one of the following: flameout, backfire, flame separation, or unstable flame, it indicates an abnormal combustion. When an abnormal combustion occurs, intervention is needed to restore the gas water heater's combustion state to normal operation. In one scenario, the abnormal combustion might be due to accidental causes. Therefore, in this disclosure, when the combustion state is in the second preset state, steps S11 to S13 can continue. Furthermore, it is determined whether the combustion state changes from the second preset state to the first preset state within a preset time. If so, the gas water heater can be controlled to operate according to steps S11 to S13; if not, meaning the combustion state remains in the second preset state within the preset time, it indicates a malfunction in the gas water heater, requiring control to execute preset protective operations, thereby enhancing safety protection and reducing the risk of accidents.

[0165] To further enhance safety, in one embodiment, controlling the operation of the gas water heater based on combustion characteristics includes: controlling the gas water heater to execute a preset protective operation based on whether the combustion state is a second preset state. Whenever combustion is abnormal, the gas water heater is controlled to execute the preset protective operation. The preset protective operation can be determined based on the specific combustion state.

[0166] For example, when the combustion status is off, it means that the gas water heater has not been started and needs to be restarted. In this case, the preset protective operation can be to control the gas water heater to restart, such as the igniter re-igniting; or the preset operation can be to cut off the gas supply to prevent gas leakage.

[0167] When the combustion state is backfired, the preset protective operation may include cutting off the gas supply, and may also include displaying the first fault information so that users can understand the fault of the gas water heater and facilitate troubleshooting.

[0168] When the combustion state is off-flame, the preset protective operation may include cutting off the gas supply, and may also include displaying a second fault message so that users can understand the fault of the gas water heater and facilitate troubleshooting.

[0169] When the combustion state is unstable, the preset protective operation may include cutting off the gas supply, and may also include displaying a third fault message so that users can understand the fault of the gas water heater and facilitate troubleshooting.

[0170] In one embodiment, the combustion parameters may include flame temperature. Controlling the operation of the gas water heater based on combustion characteristics may include: controlling the gas water heater to enter a thermal protection state when the flame temperature is greater than or equal to a temperature threshold.

[0171] The temperature threshold can be set as a safe temperature value. If the flame temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold, continued combustion would be unsafe. In this case, the gas water heater can be controlled to enter a thermal protection state. Thermal protection states may include, for example, shutting off the gas supply to prevent the water heater from continuing to heat up; or stopping operation to protect both the user and the water heater. Specific thermal protection states can be set as needed.

[0172] Combustion parameters may also include the concentration of harmful gases, which may include carbon monoxide or nitrogen monoxide. Based on combustion characteristics, controlling the operation of the gas water heater may further include: generating a warning when the concentration of harmful gases is greater than or equal to a first preset value; and shutting off the gas valve when the concentration of harmful gases is greater than or equal to a second preset value; wherein the second preset value is greater than the first preset value. For example, the first preset value may be approximately 50 ppm, and the second preset value may be approximately 100 ppm.

[0173] This can reduce the emission of harmful gases, improve environmental performance, and prevent risks such as poisoning from harmful gases.

[0174] In the above embodiments, the controller built into the gas water heater can perform fault diagnosis based on the flame image and control the gas water heater to perform preset operations based on the diagnosis results.

[0175] In another embodiment, when the combustion state meets the second preset state, the controller can send the flame image to the server, so that the server can perform fault diagnosis based on the flame image; the controller receives the diagnosis result returned by the server and controls the gas water heater to perform preset protective operations based on the diagnosis result.

[0176] The controller can also store the operating data of the gas water heater, such as flame images and corresponding combustion parameters and combustion status; it can send the operating data of the gas water heater to the server, which can then optimize and update the flame feature extraction model, combustion feature determination model, or third neural network model based on the operating data.

[0177] For example, the controller can periodically communicate with the server to determine whether there is an optimized or updated flame feature extraction model, combustion feature determination model, or third neural network model. If so, the controller receives the flame feature extraction model, combustion feature determination model, or third neural network model returned by the server and updates each model accordingly.

[0178] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the control flow of a gas water heater in one embodiment of this disclosure. The following describes a technical solution of this disclosure in detail with reference to the control flow of the gas water heater. As shown in Figure 2, when a user triggers a water usage command on the gas water heater, the command carries the user's water demand information, such as the water temperature (i.e., the target outlet water temperature). After receiving the command, the gas water heater performs system initialization. During initialization, the built-in controller can check the working status of each module, load the preset control parameters of the gas water heater, and load the flame feature extraction model, combustion feature determination model, or third neural network model.

[0179] After initialization, the gas water heater is activated based on the water usage command. If activation is required, the gas water heater is activated, and the system determines whether to activate the gas water heater.

[0180] After confirming that the water heater has started combustion, determine whether the target load has changed. When the gas water heater starts combustion for the first time, the target load has changed relative to the initial load of 0. Therefore, obtain the target load and control the gas proportional valve to the first opening degree based on the target load.

[0181] The image acquisition module is activated to acquire images, and the acquired images are preprocessed to obtain flame images. The flame images are then input into the flame feature extraction model to obtain flame feature information; this flame feature information is then input into the combustion feature determination model to obtain the current air-fuel ratio. The controller adjusts the air-to-fuel ratio based on the current air-fuel ratio to achieve closed-loop control of the air-fuel ratio.

[0182] During combustion, the system continuously checks whether the gas water heater has started combustion and whether the target load has changed. If not, it continues to acquire flame images and adjust the air-to-gas intake ratio until the gas is fully combusted. If the target load changes, it redetermines the corresponding first opening degree based on the changed target load and adjusts the air-to-gas intake ratio.

[0183] As can be seen from the above control process, the control method of this embodiment determines the current air-fuel ratio through flame image, and adjusts the intake ratio of air and gas through the current air-fuel ratio, which can realize closed-loop control of air-fuel ratio, expand the adaptability range of gas pressure fluctuation by 50%, shorten the safety protection response time to less than 100ms, and be applicable to various gas types such as natural gas and liquefied gas.

[0184] This disclosure also provides a control method for a gas water heater, applied to a server. The control method includes: receiving a flame image from a client; obtaining combustion characteristics of the flame based on the flame image, the combustion characteristics including at least one of combustion state and combustion parameters, the combustion parameters being used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater on the client; and returning the combustion characteristics to the client so that the client can control the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion characteristics.

[0185] Figure 3 is a structural block diagram of a control device for a gas water heater according to an embodiment of this disclosure. This disclosure also provides a control device for a gas water heater, comprising: a first acquisition module 31, configured to acquire a flame image of the gas water heater upon combustion activation; a second acquisition module 32, configured to acquire combustion characteristics of the flame based on the flame image, the combustion characteristics including at least one of combustion state and combustion parameters, the combustion parameters being used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater; and a control module 33, configured to control the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion characteristics.

[0186] Figure 4 is a structural block diagram of a control device for a gas water heater according to another embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 4, the control device is applied to a server and may include: a receiving module 41 for receiving a flame image from a client; a third acquisition module 42 for acquiring combustion characteristics of the flame based on the flame image, the combustion characteristics including at least one of combustion state and combustion parameters, the combustion parameters being used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater on the client; and a sending module 43 for returning the combustion characteristics to the client so that the client can control the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion characteristics.

[0187] This disclosure also provides a control system for a gas water heater, comprising: a client, configured to acquire a flame image of the gas water heater upon initiation of combustion, and send the flame image to a server; and to receive combustion features returned by the server, and control the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion features; wherein the combustion features include at least one of combustion state and combustion parameters, the combustion parameters being used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater; and a server, configured to receive the flame image from the client; acquire the combustion features of the flame based on the flame image; and return the combustion features to the client.

[0188] The client can be the controller of a gas water heater.

[0189] This disclosure also provides a gas water heater, including: an image acquisition module for acquiring images of flames; a gas valve and a water inlet valve; and a controller configured to execute the control method of this disclosure.

[0190] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, an electronic device is also provided. As shown in FIG5, the electronic device includes: at least one processor 502; and a memory 501 communicatively connected to the at least one processor. The memory 501 stores instructions executable by the at least one processor 502, which, when executed, enable the at least one processor 502 to perform the control method of any embodiment of this disclosure. The electronic device further includes: a communication interface 503 for communicating with external devices and performing data exchange and transmission.

[0191] [Corrected according to Rule 91, July 21, 2025] If the memory 501, processor 502, and communication interface 503 are implemented independently, they can be interconnected via a bus to communicate with each other. This bus can be an Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus, or an Extended Industry Standard Architecture (EISA) bus, etc. This bus can be divided into address bus, data bus, control bus, etc. For ease of representation, only one thick line is used in Figure 5, but this does not indicate that there is only one bus or one type of bus.

[0192] Optionally, in a specific implementation, if the memory 501, processor 502, and communication interface 503 are integrated on a single chip, then the memory 501, processor 502, and communication interface 503 can communicate with each other through an internal interface.

[0193] It should be understood that, in some feasible implementations, the processor illustrated in Figure 5 may be a central processing unit (CPU), but it can also be other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0194] The memory illustrated in Figure 5 may include read-only memory and random access memory, providing instructions and data to the processor. A portion of the memory may also include non-volatile random access memory. For example, the memory may also store information such as the device type.

[0195] Various embodiments of the systems and techniques described above herein can be implemented in digital electronic circuit systems, integrated circuit systems, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), application-specific standard products (ASSPs), systems-on-a-chip (SoCs), payload-programmable logic devices (CPLDs), computer hardware, firmware, software, and / or combinations thereof. These various embodiments may include implementations in one or more computer programs that can be executed and / or interpreted on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which may be a dedicated or general-purpose programmable processor, capable of receiving data and instructions from a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device, and transmitting data and instructions to the storage system, the at least one input device, and the at least one output device.

[0196] The program code used to implement the methods of this disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. This program code may be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus, such that when executed by the processor or controller, the program code causes the functions / operations specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams to be implemented. The program code may be executed entirely on a machine, partially on a machine, as a standalone software package partially on a machine and partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0197] To provide interaction with a user, the systems and techniques described herein can be implemented on a computer having: a display device for displaying information to the user (e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor); and a keyboard and pointing device (e.g., a mouse or trackball) through which the user provides input to the computer. Other types of devices can also be used to provide interaction with the user; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback); and input from the user can be received in any form (including sound input, voice input, or tactile input).

[0198] The systems and technologies described herein can be implemented in computing systems that include backend components (e.g., as a data server), or computing systems that include middleware components (e.g., an application server), or computing systems that include frontend components (e.g., a user computer with a graphical user interface or web browser through which a user can interact with embodiments of the systems and technologies described herein), or any combination of such backend, middleware, or frontend components. The components of the system can be interconnected via digital data communication of any form or medium (e.g., a communication network). Examples of communication networks include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and the Internet.

[0199] Computer systems can include clients and servers. Clients and servers are generally located far apart and typically interact via communication networks. Client-server relationships are created by computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship with each other. Servers can be cloud servers, servers in distributed systems, or servers incorporating blockchain technology.

[0200] It should be understood that the various forms of processes shown above can be used to rearrange, add, or delete steps. For example, the steps described in this disclosure can be executed in parallel, sequentially, or in different orders, as long as the desired result of the technical solution disclosed in this disclosure can be achieved, and this is not limited herein.

[0201] The specific embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this disclosure should be included within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A control method for a gas water heater, comprising: Based on the start-up of the gas water heater, obtain the flame image of the gas water heater; Based on the flame image, the combustion characteristics of the flame are obtained, and the combustion characteristics include at least one of combustion state and combustion parameters, wherein the combustion parameters are used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater; The operation of the gas water heater is controlled based on the combustion characteristics.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The combustion parameters include the current air-fuel ratio, and controlling the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion characteristics includes: Adjust the air-to-gas intake ratio in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The step of adjusting the air-to-gas intake ratio in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio includes at least one of the following: Adjust the opening degree of the gas proportional valve in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio; Adjust the fan speed in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio; Adjust the opening degree of the air proportioning valve in the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Before acquiring the flame image of the gas water heater, the method further includes: Obtain the target load, and control the gas proportional valve in the gas water heater to a first opening degree according to the target load, wherein the first opening degree corresponds to the target load.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein, The combustion parameters include the current air-fuel ratio, and controlling the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion characteristics includes: Adjust the air intake volume of the gas water heater according to the current air-fuel ratio.

6. The method according to claim 4, wherein, Also includes: Based on the change in the target load, the step of controlling the gas proportional valve in the gas water heater to the first opening degree based on the target load is executed; If the target load remains unchanged, proceed to the step of acquiring the flame image of the gas water heater.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The step of controlling the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion characteristics includes: Obtain the target parameters corresponding to the combustion parameters; Adjust the gas intake volume and / or the opening degree of the water inlet valve in the gas water heater according to the combustion parameters and the target parameters; The combustion parameters include the current combustion load or flame temperature, the target parameters corresponding to the current combustion load include the target load, and the target parameters corresponding to the flame temperature include the target outlet water temperature.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein, The combustion characteristic further includes a combustion state, which includes a first preset state and a second preset state. The first preset state includes a normal combustion state; the second preset state includes at least one of flameout, flashback, flame removal, and unstable flame. The method further includes: If the combustion state is the second preset state, it is determined whether the combustion state changes from the second preset state to the first preset state within a preset time. Based on the fact that the combustion state continues in the second preset state within the preset time, the gas water heater is controlled to perform a preset protective operation.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The combustion state includes a first preset state and a second preset state. The first preset state includes a normal combustion state. The second preset state includes at least one of flameout, backfire, flame removal, and unstable flame. The step of controlling the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion characteristics includes: Based on the combustion state being the second preset state, the gas water heater is controlled to perform a preset protective operation.

10. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The combustion characteristics include combustion parameters, including flame temperature. Controlling the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion characteristics includes: If the flame temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature threshold, the gas water heater is controlled to enter the overheat protection state.

11. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The combustion characteristics include combustion parameters, which include the concentration of harmful gases. Controlling the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion characteristics includes: If the concentration of the harmful gas is greater than or equal to a first preset value, an early warning will be generated and the fan speed in the gas water heater will be increased. If the concentration of the harmful gas is greater than or equal to the second preset value, the gas valve shall be shut off. Wherein, the second preset value is greater than the first preset value.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein, The step of obtaining the combustion characteristics of the flame based on the flame image includes: Feature extraction is performed on the flame image to obtain flame feature information of the flame image; The combustion characteristics are obtained based on the flame characteristic information.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The step of extracting features from the flame image to obtain flame feature information includes: The flame image is input into a preset flame feature extraction model to obtain the flame feature information; or, The flame image is subjected to feature extraction using image recognition technology to obtain the flame feature information.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The step of obtaining the combustion characteristics of the flame based on the flame feature information includes: The flame feature information is input into a preset combustion feature determination model to obtain the combustion features.

15. The method according to any one of claims 12-14, wherein, The flame feature information includes at least one of the following: color distribution features, brightness variation features, morphological features, and temporal features.

16. The method according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein, The step of obtaining the combustion characteristics of the flame based on the flame image includes: The flame image is input into a preset neural network model to obtain the combustion features.

17. The method according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein, The step of obtaining the combustion characteristics of the flame based on the flame image includes: Send the flame image to the server; The server receives the combustion features returned by the server, which are obtained by the server based on the flame image.

18. A control device for a gas water heater, comprising: The first acquisition module is used to acquire a flame image of the gas water heater when combustion is started. The second acquisition module acquires the combustion characteristics of the flame based on the flame image. The combustion characteristics include at least one of combustion state and combustion parameters, and the combustion parameters are used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater. The control module is used to control the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion characteristics.

19. A control system for a gas water heater, comprising: The client is configured to acquire a flame image of the gas water heater based on the start of combustion of the gas water heater, and send the flame image to the server; and to receive combustion features returned by the server, and control the operation of the gas water heater based on the combustion features; wherein, the combustion features include at least one of combustion state and combustion parameters, and the combustion parameters are used to characterize the actual operating parameters of the gas water heater; The server is configured to receive flame images from clients; obtain combustion characteristics of the flames based on the flame images; and return the combustion characteristics to the clients.

20. An electronic device, comprising: At least one processor; as well as A memory communicatively connected to the at least one processor; wherein, The memory stores instructions that can be executed by the at least one processor to enable the at least one processor to perform the control method according to any one of claims 1-17.

21. A gas water heater, comprising: The image acquisition module is used to acquire images of the flames; Gas valve and water inlet valve; The controller is configured to perform the control method according to any one of claims 1-17.

Images