Method and system for testing heating efficiency of heating rod in water heater, and storage medium
By detecting the voltage, current, and parameters of the heating element and calculating the heating efficiency and attenuation parameters, the problem of reduced heating element efficiency is solved, and efficient operation of the water heater and rational utilization of resources are achieved.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SHANGHAI PURE DEAU ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-08-13
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-16
AI Technical Summary
The efficiency of heating elements gradually decreases with increasing usage time, leading to increased energy consumption and reduced heating effect in water heaters, affecting user experience and wasting electricity. Existing technology lacks effective detection methods to prompt users to replace heating elements in a timely manner.
Heating power is calculated by detecting the voltage and current of the heating rod, and the heating power and total electrical power are calculated by combining the volume of the heating element and the water temperature change. Heating efficiency and attenuation parameters are calculated, preset reference values are set to prompt the replacement of heating rods, and regional management is carried out according to the distribution density and attenuation parameters of the heating rods.
It enables accurate assessment of heating element performance and timely replacement reminders, reducing energy consumption, improving the safety and reliability of water heater use, rationally allocating maintenance resources, and avoiding resource waste.
Smart Images

Figure CN2025114274_16072026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Methods, systems, and storage media for testing the heating efficiency of heating elements in water heaters. Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the technical field of electric water heaters, and in particular to a method, system, and storage medium for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater. Background Technology
[0002] A water heater is a device that uses various physical principles to raise the temperature of cold water to produce hot water within a certain time. Based on different principles, they can be divided into electric water heaters, gas water heaters, solar water heaters, magnetic water heaters, air source water heaters, and central heating water heaters, etc.
[0003] Electric water heaters are those that use electricity as an energy source for heating water, and the heating element is generally an electric heating rod. Therefore, the electric heating rod is a crucial component in water heaters for heating water. However, with increased usage time, the efficiency of the heating rod gradually decreases, leading to increased energy consumption and reduced heating effect. For example, minerals in the water form scale on the surface of the heating rod, reducing heat transfer efficiency; the heating rod material may corrode under high temperatures and water conditions, affecting its performance; the resistance of the heating rod may increase, leading to power loss; and the heating rod material may age due to prolonged high-temperature use, reducing its thermal conductivity.
[0004] A significant decrease in the heating efficiency of the water heater will lead to a substantial increase in electricity consumption and problems such as insufficient water supply during peak hours, seriously affecting the user experience and wasting electricity bills. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a method to detect the heating efficiency of the water heater and to prompt the user to replace the water heater when the heating efficiency drops significantly. Summary of the Invention
[0005] In order to prompt users to replace the water heater heating rod when the heating efficiency of the heating rod decreases significantly, this application provides a method, system and storage medium for detecting the heating efficiency of the heating rod in a water heater.
[0006] Firstly, this application provides a method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater, employing the following technical solution:
[0007] A method for testing the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater, comprising the following steps:
[0008] The heating voltage value V is obtained by detecting the voltage of the heating rod, the heating current value I is obtained by detecting the current of the heating rod, and the heating power value P is calculated, where P = V × I;
[0009] The container for hot water is a heating element, and the volume value V of the heating element is obtained; the temperature of the heating element before heating is detected as the initial temperature value Tl, and the temperature of the heating element when heating is stopped is detected as the final temperature value Th.
[0010] Based on the volume of water V, calculate the heating power W1 required to heat the water from the initial temperature TL to the final temperature TH, where W1 = m × c × (Th - Tl), m is the mass of water, m = V × ρ, c is the specific heat capacity of water, and ρ is the density of water.
[0011] Calculate the total electrical power W2 from the start of heating the heating element to the stop of heating the heating element, W2 = P × t, where t is the heating time from the start of heating the heating element to the stop of heating the heating element, in seconds;
[0012] Calculate the heating efficiency K of the heating rod, K = W1 / W2 × 100%;
[0013] Obtain the new heating efficiency Ka of the heating rod, and calculate the attenuation parameter S of the heating rod;
[0014] S = (1 - K / Ka) × 100%;
[0015] If the attenuation parameter S is greater than the preset reference value Sc, a prompt to replace the heating rod will be issued.
[0016] By employing the above technical solution and utilizing clear physical formulas and measurement procedures, the heating efficiency of the heating element is accurately calculated. First, the voltage and current of the heating element are measured to obtain the heating power value. Then, based on data such as the volume of the heating element and the initial and final temperatures of the water, the power required for heating is calculated, thus accurately determining the heating efficiency. This provides strong data support for objectively evaluating the performance of the heating element. Clearly understanding the actual ratio of electrical energy converted into water heat energy by the heating element helps users intuitively understand the energy utilization efficiency of the water heater during the heating process, facilitating the assessment of the product's energy consumption level and providing a reference for users to use the water heater rationally and reduce energy consumption. By obtaining the heating efficiency of a new heating element and comparing it with the current heating element's efficiency, the attenuation parameter is calculated, allowing real-time monitoring of the heating element's performance changes over time and timely detection of performance degradation. Setting a preset reference value, and prompting the replacement of the heating element when the attenuation parameter exceeds this value, provides a scientific and reasonable basis for water heater maintenance and heating element replacement. This avoids problems such as low heating efficiency and increased energy consumption caused by heating element aging, while ensuring the normal operation of the water heater, improving safety and reliability, and effectively extending the water heater's lifespan.
[0017] Optionally, the method further includes the following steps:
[0018] Obtain the heating efficiency Ka of the most recently manufactured heating rods; calculate the average of the multiple heating efficiencies Ka as the factory heating efficiency Kb;
[0019] The new attenuation parameter S is calculated by replacing the heating efficiency Ka with the factory heating efficiency Kb.
[0020] By adopting the above technical solution, newly produced heating rods may exhibit certain individual performance differences. By obtaining the heating efficiency of multiple newly produced heating rods and calculating their average as the factory heating efficiency Kb, these individual differences can be comprehensively considered, resulting in a more representative value. Compared to the heating efficiency Ka of a single heating rod, Kb more accurately reflects the overall performance level of the batch of heating rods. Using Kb instead of Ka to calculate the attenuation parameter S reduces calculation errors caused by individual differences, allowing the attenuation parameter S to more accurately reflect the performance degradation of the heating rod during use. The factory heating efficiency Kb, determined based on the average heating efficiency of multiple heating rods, provides a relatively stable reference standard for subsequent calculations of the attenuation parameter. When evaluating the performance degradation of heating rods, a stable reference standard helps improve the consistency and comparability of attenuation parameter calculations across different stages and different heating rods, thereby more accurately judging the performance change trend of the heating rod.
[0021] Optionally, the method further includes the following steps:
[0022] The changes in the most recent attenuation parameters S are compared with a preset rising curve. The reference value Sc is adjusted inversely based on the changes in the trends. The faster the changes in the trends decrease, the smaller the reference value Sc becomes. The slower the changes in the trends increase, the larger the reference value Sc becomes.
[0023] By adopting the above technical solution, the reference value Sc can be adjusted in real time according to the changing trend of the attenuation parameters. During long-term use, the performance degradation of the heating rod is not constant. By acquiring multiple attenuation parameters and comparing their changing trends with a preset rising curve, the actual performance changes can be reflected more accurately. The faster the trend decreases, the faster the heating rod's performance degrades. In this case, lowering the reference value Sc can prompt earlier replacement of the heating rod, avoiding a series of problems caused by excessive wear and tear. Conversely, the slower the trend increases, the more stable the heating rod's performance is. Appropriately increasing the reference value Sc can extend its service life while ensuring normal operation, avoiding unnecessary replacements and improving resource utilization.
[0024] Optionally, the method further includes the following steps:
[0025] The fluctuation amplitude of the recent multiple attenuation parameters S is positively correlated with the number of newly produced heating rods involved in the calculation. The larger the fluctuation amplitude, the more newly produced heating rods are involved in the calculation, and the smaller the fluctuation amplitude, the fewer newly produced heating rods are involved in the calculation.
[0026] By adopting the above technical solution and adjusting the number of newly produced heating rods involved in the calculation based on the fluctuation range of the attenuation parameter S, the stability of the heating rod performance can be reflected more accurately. When the fluctuation range is large, it indicates that the heating rod performance may have greater uncertainty and dispersion. Increasing the number of new heating rods involved in the calculation can cover the performance of more different individuals, making the calculated heating efficiency Ka of the new heating rod more representative and reliable, thus providing a more solid foundation for subsequent accurate evaluation of the attenuation of existing heating rods.
[0027] Optionally, the method further includes the following steps:
[0028] The number of heating rods within a set geographical area that are from the same batch of manufacturing is defined as the number of regions, M1.
[0029] Calculate the attenuation parameter S of the heating rod within the aforementioned geographical area;
[0030] The number of attenuation parameters S in the area M1 that are greater than the reference value Sc is the range warning quantity M1y;
[0031] If the number of warnings M1y in the specified range is greater than the preset warning reference value Mc, then a prompt to replace the heating rod in the area will be issued.
[0032] By adopting the above technical solution, heating elements from the same batch manufactured within a specific geographical area are centrally monitored and analyzed. When the number of attenuation parameters S exceeding the reference value Sc within that area (i.e., the number of range warnings M1y) exceeds the preset warning reference value Mc, a prompt is issued to replace the heating elements in that area. This method can accurately locate the problematic areas, avoiding indiscriminate replacement of all heating elements, and improving the targeting and efficiency of maintenance work. Compared to indiscriminately maintaining or replacing all heating elements, this regional management approach can more rationally allocate human, material, and financial resources. Resources are concentrated on areas that truly require heating element replacement, avoiding resource waste, while ensuring that water heater heating elements in each area receive timely and effective maintenance.
[0033] Optionally, the method further includes the following steps:
[0034] Obtain the arrangement area of the heating rods from the same batch of factory, and divide the arrangement area into multiple distribution areas according to a preset standard range. The number of distribution areas is the distribution quantity Mf.
[0035] Calculate the attenuation parameter S for all heating rods within each distribution area;
[0036] The distribution number Mf is obtained by averaging all the attenuation parameters S in each distribution area;
[0037] The region among the Mf distribution decay values Sf that is greater than the reference value Sc is the distribution warning region;
[0038] The distribution density of the distribution warning area is calculated as the location distribution density value. If the location distribution density value is greater than the preset reference density value, a regional water quality warning is issued.
[0039] By adopting the above technical solution, the area where the heating rods are arranged is divided into multiple distribution zones according to a preset standard range, and the average value of the heating rod attenuation parameter in each zone is calculated as the distribution attenuation value. This refined analysis method can more accurately locate which distribution zones have more severe heating rod attenuation, providing more detailed and accurate information compared to focusing only on the overall area. The distribution warning zone is determined by judging whether the distribution attenuation value is greater than the reference value Sc, providing a clear target area for subsequent in-depth analysis. The distribution density of the distribution warning zone is calculated and compared with a preset reference density value; when the location distribution density value is greater than the reference density value, a regional water quality warning is issued. This process establishes a correlation between heating rod attenuation and regional water quality, as heating rod attenuation may be affected by water quality to some extent. In this way, areas with potential water quality problems can be identified in a timely manner, providing a basis for further water quality testing and treatment.
[0040] Optionally, the method further includes the following steps:
[0041] The distribution density of the heating rods in the arrangement area is calculated as the heating distribution density value, and the standard range is adjusted inversely based on the heating distribution density value; the larger the heating distribution density value, the smaller the standard range; the smaller the heating distribution density value, the larger the standard range.
[0042] By adopting the above technical solution, the standard range is adjusted inversely based on the distribution density of heating rods in the arrangement area, making the area division more scientific and reasonable. A higher heating distribution density value indicates a denser distribution of heating rods within that area. In this case, narrowing the standard range allows for more detailed analysis and management of areas with concentrated heating rods, accurately capturing performance changes in each small area. Conversely, a lower heating distribution density value allows for a more appropriately larger standard range, ensuring analytical effectiveness while avoiding unnecessary computational and management costs due to overly fine area division. This adjustment method achieves a good balance between analytical accuracy and management efficiency. For densely distributed heating rod areas, finer division provides more detailed information, helping to identify subtle but potentially important differences; while for sparsely distributed areas, a larger standard range covers a sufficient number of heating rods for meaningful analysis without making management overly cumbersome.
[0043] Optionally, the method further includes the following steps:
[0044] The distribution density of the heating rods in the arrangement area is calculated as the heating distribution density value, and the reference density value is adjusted according to the heating distribution density value in a positive correlation; the larger the heating distribution density value, the larger the reference density value; the smaller the heating distribution density value, the smaller the reference density value.
[0045] By employing the above technical solution, the heating distribution density reflects the density of the heating rods within the deployment area. A higher heating distribution density indicates a larger number of heating rods in the area, thus increasing the likelihood of abnormal attenuation from a greater number of heating rods. Therefore, increasing the reference density value in this case means that a higher distribution density is required in the warning area when determining whether to issue a regional water quality warning. This is reasonable, as a larger number of heating rods can naturally lead to a higher distribution density; only when the actual distribution density is significantly higher than normal is it more likely to be caused by water quality issues. Conversely, a lower heating distribution density value results in a lower reference density value, allowing for more sensitive detection of potential water quality problems in sparsely distributed heating rod areas, making water quality warnings more aligned with the actual conditions of different regions. Dynamically adjusting the reference density value based on the heating distribution density avoids potential misjudgments or omissions due to a fixed reference density value. In densely distributed heating rod areas, it prevents unnecessary water quality warnings from being triggered frequently due to normally higher distribution densities; in sparsely distributed heating rod areas, it ensures that potential water quality problems are detected promptly, thereby achieving accurate warnings for regional water quality issues.
[0046] Secondly, this application provides a system for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater, employing the following technical solution:
[0047] A system for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater includes a processor, wherein the processor performs the steps of the method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater as described in any one of the preceding claims.
[0048] Thirdly, this application provides a storage medium, which adopts the following technical solution:
[0049] A storage medium storing a program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater as described in any one of the preceding claims.
[0050] In summary, this application includes at least one of the following beneficial technical effects:
[0051] By accurately measuring the voltage, current, and other parameters of the heating element, the heating efficiency and attenuation parameters can be precisely calculated, providing a quantitative basis for a comprehensive and objective evaluation of the heating element's performance. This helps to gain a deeper understanding of the heating element's working status and actual effectiveness.
[0052] On the one hand, by adjusting the reference value Sc inversely according to the changing trend of the attenuation parameter, the dynamic changes in the performance of the heating rod can be flexibly adapted to, the timing of the replacement of the heating rod can be rationally planned, and the scientific nature of the maintenance strategy can be improved. On the other hand, by adjusting the reference density value inversely according to the heating distribution density, the regional water quality early warning can be made more accurate, effectively avoiding misjudgment and missed judgment, and improving the rationality and reliability of the early warning mechanism.
[0053] Regionalizing and managing heating elements enables precise analysis and decision-making based on the characteristics of different areas. By calculating the attenuation parameters and distribution warning zones of heating elements within a region, centralized monitoring and maintenance alerts can be provided for heating elements in specific areas. This improves the targeting of maintenance work and the rationality of resource allocation, ensuring the user experience and safety within the region. Attached Figure Description
[0054] Figure 1 is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a method for testing the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater.
[0055] Figure 2 is a flowchart showing the steps for prompting whether to replace the heating rod in the area.
[0056] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the steps for issuing regional water quality early warnings.
[0057] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the water quality warning area. Detailed Implementation
[0058] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below, and examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings.
[0059] In the description of this specification, the references to "certain embodiments," "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples" refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with the described embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.
[0060] This application discloses a method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater, referring to Figure 1, and includes the following steps:
[0061] Using a voltage detection device, the voltage across the heating rod is measured to obtain the heating voltage value V, and the heating current value I is obtained by detecting the current of the heating rod. The heating power value P is then calculated, where P = V × I.
[0062] The container for hot water is a heating element, and the volume value V of the heating element is obtained; the temperature of the heating element before heating is detected as the initial temperature value Tl, and the temperature of the heating element when heating is stopped is detected as the final temperature value Th.
[0063] Based on the volume of water V, calculate the heating power W1 required to heat the water from the initial temperature TL to the final temperature TH, where W1 = m × c × (Th - Tl), m is the mass of water, m = V × ρ, c is the specific heat capacity of water, and ρ is the density of water.
[0064] Calculate the total electrical power W2 from the start of heating the heating element to the stop of heating the heating element, W2 = P × t, where t is the heating time from the start of heating the heating element to the stop of heating the heating element, in seconds.
[0065] Calculate the heating efficiency K of the heating rod, K = W1 / W2 × 100%.
[0066] Obtain the heating efficiency Ka of the new heating rod and calculate the attenuation parameter S of the heating rod;
[0067] S = (1 - K / Ka) × 100%;
[0068] If the attenuation parameter S is greater than the preset reference value Sc, a prompt to replace the heating rod will be issued.
[0069] Assume a water heater with a heating element volume of V = 50L = 0.05m³. 3 ;
[0070] Using a voltage detection device, the voltage across the heating rod was measured to be V = 220V and the current was I = 5A.
[0071] According to the formula P=V×I, the heating power value P=220V×5A=1100W can be calculated.
[0072] The temperature of the heating element was measured before heating, with an initial temperature value of Tl = 20℃.
[0073] The temperature of the heating element is detected when heating stops, and the termination temperature value Th = 60℃.
[0074] Given that the density of water ρ = 1000 kg / m³ 3 According to m=V×ρ, the mass of water is 50kg.
[0075] The specific heat capacity of water is c = 4.2 × 10⁻⁶ 3 J / (kg·℃).
[0076] From the formula W1=m×c×(Th-Tl), we can get W1=50kg×4.2×10 3 J / (kg·℃)×(60℃-20℃)=8.4×10^6J.
[0077] The heating time from the start of heating the heating element to the stop of heating the heating element is t = 8000s.
[0078] Given that the heating power P = 1100W, according to W2 = P × t, we can get W2 = 1100W × 8000s = 8.8 × 10^6J.
[0079] According to the formula K = 95.45%.
[0080] Assume the heating efficiency of the new heating rod is Ka = 98%.
[0081] The formula yields S = 2.6%.
[0082] Since 2.6% < 5%, meaning the attenuation parameter S is less than the preset reference value Sc, there is no need to prompt for heating rod replacement at this time.
[0083] By utilizing precise physical formulas and measurement procedures, the heating efficiency of the heating element is accurately calculated. First, the voltage and current of the heating element are measured to obtain the heating power value. Then, based on data such as the volume of the heating element and the initial and final water temperatures, the power required for heating is calculated, thus accurately determining the heating efficiency. This provides strong data support for objectively evaluating the heating element's performance. Clearly understanding the actual ratio of electrical energy converted into water heat energy by the heating element helps users intuitively understand the energy utilization efficiency of the water heater during the heating process, facilitating the assessment of the product's energy consumption level and providing a reference for users to use the water heater rationally and reduce energy consumption. By obtaining the heating efficiency of a new heating element and comparing it with the current heating element's efficiency, a decay parameter is calculated, allowing real-time monitoring of the heating element's performance changes over time and timely detection of performance degradation. Setting a preset reference value, and prompting the replacement of the heating element when the decay parameter exceeds this value, provides a scientific and reasonable basis for water heater maintenance and heating element replacement. This avoids problems such as low heating efficiency and increased energy consumption caused by heating element aging, while ensuring the normal operation of the water heater, improving safety and reliability, and effectively extending the water heater's lifespan.
[0084] Referring to Figure 2, the method also includes the following steps:
[0085] Obtain the heating efficiency Ka of several recently manufactured heating rods; calculate the average of the multiple heating efficiencies Ka as the factory heating efficiency Kb.
[0086] Replace the heating efficiency Ka with the factory-set heating efficiency Kb and calculate the new attenuation parameter S.
[0087] Assume the heating efficiencies of the 10 newly produced heating rods are as follows: Ka1 = 98.2%, Ka2 = 97.8%, Ka3 = 98.0%, Ka4 = 97.9%, Ka5 = 98.1%, Ka6 = 97.7%, Ka7 = 98.3%, Ka8 = 97.6%, Ka9 = 98.0%, and Ka10 = 97.9%.
[0088] The average value of these heating efficiencies is calculated to be Kb = 97.98%.
[0089] Now, the original heating efficiency Ka = 98% is replaced with the factory heating efficiency Kb = 97.98%, and the attenuation parameter S = 2.59% is recalculated.
[0090] Since 2.59% < 5%, meaning the new attenuation parameter S is still less than the preset reference value Sc, there is still no need to prompt for heating rod replacement.
[0091] Newly manufactured heating elements may exhibit individual performance variations. By obtaining the heating efficiency of multiple newly manufactured heating elements and calculating their average as the factory heating efficiency Kb, these individual differences can be comprehensively considered, resulting in a more representative value. Compared to the heating efficiency Ka of a single heating element, Kb more accurately reflects the overall performance level of the batch. Using Kb instead of Ka to calculate the attenuation parameter S reduces calculation errors caused by individual differences, allowing the attenuation parameter S to more accurately reflect the performance degradation of the heating element during use. The factory heating efficiency Kb, determined based on the average heating efficiency of multiple heating elements, provides a relatively stable reference standard for subsequent calculations of the attenuation parameter. When evaluating the performance degradation of heating elements, a stable reference standard helps improve the consistency and comparability of attenuation parameter calculations across different stages and different heating elements, thereby more accurately determining the performance change trend of the heating element.
[0092] The method also includes the following steps:
[0093] The system acquires the recent trends of multiple attenuation parameters S compared to a preset rising curve. Based on these trends, it inversely adjusts the reference value Sc. A faster decreasing trend results in a smaller reference value Sc, while a slower increasing trend results in a larger reference value Sc. For example, if the recent attenuation parameter S shows a significantly faster trend, the reference value Sc is reduced from 5% to 4% or lower. Thus, even if the heating element's attenuation parameter S has not yet reached 5%, as long as it exceeds the new reference value Sc, such as 4%, the system will prompt for the heating element to be replaced.
[0094] The system can adjust the reference value Sc in real time based on the changing trends of the attenuation parameters. During long-term use, the performance degradation of the heating element is not constant. By comparing the changing trends of multiple attenuation parameters with a preset rising curve, the actual performance changes can be reflected more accurately. A faster decreasing trend indicates a faster rate of performance degradation. In this case, lowering the reference value Sc can prompt earlier replacement of the heating element, avoiding a series of problems caused by excessive wear and tear. Conversely, a slower increasing trend indicates relatively stable heating element performance. Appropriately increasing the reference value Sc can extend its service life while ensuring normal operation, avoiding unnecessary replacements and improving resource utilization.
[0095] The method also includes the following steps:
[0096] The fluctuation amplitude of several recent attenuation parameters S is positively correlated with the number of newly produced heating rods used in the calculation. The larger the fluctuation amplitude, the more newly produced heating rods are used in the calculation, and the smaller the fluctuation amplitude, the fewer newly produced heating rods are used in the calculation.
[0097] When the fluctuation range is less than a certain threshold M1, a smaller number of newly produced heating rods, such as 5, are used to calculate the factory heating efficiency Kb.
[0098] When the fluctuation range is between M1 and M2, use a moderate number of new production heating rods, such as 10.
[0099] When the fluctuation range is greater than M2, more new production heating rods are used, for example, 20.
[0100] Adjusting the number of newly produced heating rods used in the calculation based on the fluctuation range of the attenuation parameter S can more accurately reflect the stability of the heating rod performance. When the fluctuation range is large, it indicates that the heating rod performance may have greater uncertainty and dispersion. Increasing the number of new heating rods used in the calculation can cover the performance of more different individuals, making the calculated heating efficiency Ka of the new heating rods more representative and reliable, thus providing a more solid foundation for subsequent accurate evaluation of the attenuation of existing heating rods.
[0101] The method also includes the following steps:
[0102] The number of heating rods within the specified geographical area that are from the same batch of manufacturing is defined as the area number M1.
[0103] Calculate the attenuation parameter S of the heating rod within this region.
[0104] The number of attenuation parameters S in the calculated area M1 that are greater than the reference value Sc is the range warning quantity M1y.
[0105] If the number of warnings M1y in the area is greater than the preset warning reference value Mc, a prompt will be issued to replace the heating rod in the area.
[0106] Assume the defined geographical area is a specific city, within which there are 100 heating rods manufactured in the same batch (M1 = 100).
[0107] Based on historical data and industry standards, the reference value Sc is set at 5%; it is assumed that the attenuation parameter S ranges from 0 to 1, with 1 indicating no attenuation at all.
[0108] The attenuation parameter S of these 100 heating rods was obtained through calculation.
[0109] Suppose that among these attenuation parameters S, there are 50 parameters that are greater than the reference value Sc (5%) (M1y = 50).
[0110] The set warning reference value Mc is 45, which means that when the attenuation parameter S of more than 45 heating rods is greater than 5%, the system should issue a replacement prompt.
[0111] Because M1y(50) is greater than Mc(45), the system issues a prompt to replace the heating rods in the city.
[0112] Centralized monitoring and analysis are conducted on heating elements from the same batch manufactured within a specific geographical area. When the number of attenuation parameters S exceeding the reference value Sc (i.e., the number of range warnings M1y) within that area exceeds the preset warning reference value Mc, a prompt is issued to replace the heating elements in that area. This method can accurately locate the problematic areas, avoiding indiscriminate replacement of all heating elements and improving the targeting and efficiency of maintenance work. Compared to indiscriminately maintaining or replacing all heating elements, this regional management approach allows for a more rational allocation of human, material, and financial resources. Resources are concentrated on areas that truly require heating element replacement, avoiding resource waste while ensuring that water heater heating elements in each area receive timely and effective maintenance.
[0113] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the method further includes the following steps:
[0114] Obtain the layout area of the heating elements from the same batch of products. Divide this layout area into multiple distribution zones according to a preset standard range. The number of distribution zones is Mf. The layout area is divided into multiple distribution zones according to the preset standard range, with Mf = 8 zones. These 8 distribution zones correspond to the water heater installation locations in different residential areas. For example, zone 1 is the first distribution zone, zone 3 is the second distribution zone, and so on.
[0115] Calculate the attenuation parameter S for all heating rods in each distribution area. Assume there are 10 heating rods in each distribution area, and assume the attenuation parameters S for the 10 heating rods in area 1 are 3.2%, 4.5%, 2.8%, 3.8%, 3.5%, 2.6%, 3.0%, 4.2%, and 3.6%, respectively.
[0116] The number of distributed attenuation values Sf is obtained by averaging all attenuation parameters S within each distribution region. Based on the attenuation parameters S of the 10 heating rods in zone 1-2, Sf is calculated to be 3.52%.
[0117] The regions with distribution decay values Sf greater than the reference value Sc among the Mf distributions are designated as distribution warning areas. Assume the Sf values for the other seven regions are 3.0%, 4.1%, 2.5%, 3.8%, 4.3%, 3.3%, and 2.9%, respectively.
[0118] The distribution density of the distribution warning area is calculated as the location distribution density value. If the location distribution density value is greater than the preset reference density value, a regional water quality warning is issued.
[0119] Assuming the preset reference value Sc is 4.0%, the values of 4.1% and 4.3% are found to be greater than 4.0%, with a distribution density of 2 / 8 = 0.25, which is greater than the preset reference density value of 0.2. Therefore, a regional water quality early warning is required. Specifically, since the anomalies are observed in areas three and six, and considering the map or the water pipeline flow diagram, the water quality entering these two areas may be problematic. Therefore, an early warning is needed for further investigation to ensure water quality safety.
[0120] The area where the heating rods are arranged is divided into multiple distribution zones according to a preset standard range, and the average value of the heating rod attenuation parameter in each zone is calculated as the distribution attenuation value. This refined analysis method can more accurately locate which distribution zones have more severe heating rod attenuation, providing more detailed and accurate information compared to focusing only on the overall area. Distribution warning zones are determined by judging whether the distribution attenuation value is greater than the reference value Sc, providing a clear target area for subsequent in-depth analysis. The distribution density of the distribution warning zone is calculated and compared with a preset reference density value; when the location distribution density value is greater than the reference density value, a regional water quality warning is issued. This process establishes a correlation between heating rod attenuation and regional water quality, as heating rod attenuation can be affected by water quality to some extent. In this way, areas with potential water quality problems can be identified in a timely manner, providing a basis for further water quality testing and treatment.
[0121] The method also includes the following steps:
[0122] The distribution density of heating rods in the calculated area is called the heating distribution density value. The standard range is adjusted inversely based on the heating distribution density value. The larger the heating distribution density value, the smaller the standard range; the smaller the heating distribution density value, the larger the standard range.
[0123] Assume the total area of the area where the heating rods are located is 5,000 square meters, and there are a total of 200 heating rods.
[0124] Calculate the heating distribution density value: 200 / 5000 = 0.04 (units / square meter)
[0125] Adjustment rules for determining the standard range:
[0126] Assume the basic standard range is 625 square meters per area (i.e., the initial number of areas is 5000-625=8). It is stipulated that for every 0.01 heating distribution density per square meter increase, the standard range area decreases by 50 square meters; conversely, for every 0.01 heating distribution density decrease per square meter, the standard range area increases by 50 square meters.
[0127] Adjust the standard range according to the heating distribution density value:
[0128] The current heating distribution density value is 0.04, which is an increase of 0.04 - 0.02 = 0.02 units / square meter compared to the basic heating distribution density value (assuming it is 0.02).
[0129] Therefore, the standard area should be reduced by 0.02 x 50 = 10 square meters, that is, the adjusted standard area of each distribution area is 625 - 10 = 615 square meters.
[0130] The number of new distribution areas becomes 5000:615≈8.13, which is rounded up to 9 distribution areas.
[0131] In this way, by adjusting the standard range inversely based on the heating distribution density value, the division of the deployment area becomes more reasonable, more accurately reflecting the condition of the heating rods in different areas. This also helps to conduct more targeted water quality monitoring and analysis, further ensuring water quality safety and the normal operating efficiency of the heating rods. For example, if an abnormally high heating rod attenuation parameter reappears in a newly divided area, the investigation of water quality problems in that area can be more focused without being influenced by the previously coarser-grained division of the area.
[0132] The method also includes the following steps:
[0133] The distribution density of heating rods in the calculated area is the heating distribution density value. The reference density value is adjusted based on the positive correlation between the heating distribution density value and the reference density value. The larger the heating distribution density value, the larger the reference density value; the smaller the heating distribution density value, the smaller the reference density value.
[0134] Assuming a base reference density value of 0.15, and setting that for every increase of 0.01 units / square meter in heating distribution density, the reference density value increases by 0.02; and for every decrease of 0.01 units / square meter in heating distribution density, the reference density value decreases by 0.02.
[0135] Adjust the reference density value according to the heating distribution density value:
[0136] The current heating distribution density value is 0.04, which is an increase of 0.04 - 0.02 = 0.02 units / square meter compared to the basic heating distribution density value (assuming the basic value corresponds to 0.02 units / square meter).
[0137] Therefore, the reference density value should be increased by 0.02 x 2 = 0.04, meaning the adjusted reference density value is 0.15 + 0.04 = 0.19. For example, when calculating the distribution density (location distribution density value) of the distribution warning area and comparing it with the reference density value, if the initial reference density value of 0.15 is used for judgment, many areas may be judged as requiring water quality warnings, which may lead to unnecessary investigation work and waste of resources. However, by adjusting the reference density value according to the positive correlation with the heating distribution density value and using the new reference density value of 0.19 for judgment, areas that may actually have water quality problems can be more accurately identified, avoiding misjudgments caused by different heating rod distribution densities. This makes water quality warnings more reasonable and effective, allowing for more targeted subsequent water quality testing and treatment, and improving the stability and reliability of the entire hot water supply system.
[0138] In other implementations, the preset reference value Sc can also be 50% or other values, set according to specific design requirements and usage needs.
[0139] This application also discloses a system for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater, comprising a processor, wherein the processor executes the steps of the method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater as described above.
[0140] This application also discloses a storage medium storing a program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater as described above.
[0141] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting this application. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of this application.
Claims
1. A method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The heating voltage value V is obtained by detecting the voltage of the heating rod, the heating current value I is obtained by detecting the current of the heating rod, and the heating power value P is calculated, where P = V × I; The container for hot water is a heating element, and the volume value V of the heating element is obtained; the temperature of the heating element before heating is detected as the initial temperature value Tl, and the temperature of the heating element when heating is stopped is detected as the final temperature value Th. Based on the volume of water V, calculate the heating power W1 required to heat the water from the initial temperature TL to the final temperature TH, where W1 = m × c × (Th - Tl), m is the mass of water, m = V × ρ, c is the specific heat capacity of water, and ρ is the density of water. Calculate the total electrical power W2 from the start of heating the heating element to the stop of heating the heating element, W2 = P × t, where t is the heating time from the start of heating the heating element to the stop of heating the heating element, in seconds; Calculate the heating efficiency K of the heating rod, K = W1 / W2 × 100%; Obtain the new heating efficiency Ka of the heating rod, and calculate the attenuation parameter S of the heating rod; S = (1 - K / Ka) × 100%; If the attenuation parameter S is greater than the preset reference value Sc, a prompt to replace the heating rod will be issued.
2. The method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method also includes the following steps: Obtain the heating efficiency Ka of the most recently manufactured heating rods; calculate the average of the multiple heating efficiencies Ka as the factory heating efficiency Kb; The new attenuation parameter S is calculated by replacing the heating efficiency Ka with the factory heating efficiency Kb.
3. The method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method also includes the following steps: The changes in the most recent attenuation parameters S are compared with a preset rising curve. The reference value Sc is adjusted inversely based on the changes in the trends. The faster the changes in the trends decrease, the smaller the reference value Sc becomes. The slower the changes in the trends increase, the larger the reference value Sc becomes.
4. The method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, The method also includes the following steps: The fluctuation amplitude of the recent multiple attenuation parameters S is positively correlated with the number of newly produced heating rods involved in the calculation. The larger the fluctuation amplitude, the more newly produced heating rods are involved in the calculation, and the smaller the fluctuation amplitude, the fewer newly produced heating rods are involved in the calculation.
5. The method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method also includes the following steps: The number of heating rods within a set geographical area that are from the same batch of manufacturing is defined as the number of regions, M1. Calculate the attenuation parameter S of the heating rod within the aforementioned geographical area; The number of attenuation parameters S in the area M1 that are greater than the reference value Sc is the range warning quantity M1y; If the number of warnings M1y in the specified range is greater than the preset warning reference value Mc, then a prompt to replace the heating rod in the area will be issued.
6. The method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method also includes the following steps: Obtain the arrangement area of the heating rods from the same batch of factory, and divide the arrangement area into multiple distribution areas according to a preset standard range. The number of distribution areas is the distribution quantity Mf. Calculate the attenuation parameter S for all heating rods within each distribution area; The distribution number Mf is obtained by averaging all the attenuation parameters S in each distribution area; The region among the Mf distribution decay values Sf that is greater than the reference value Sc is the distribution warning region; The distribution density of the distribution warning area is calculated as the location distribution density value. If the location distribution density value is greater than the preset reference density value, a regional water quality warning is issued.
7. The method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method also includes the following steps: The distribution density of the heating rods in the arrangement area is calculated as the heating distribution density value, and the standard range is adjusted inversely based on the heating distribution density value; the larger the heating distribution density value, the smaller the standard range; the smaller the heating distribution density value, the larger the standard range.
8. The method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method also includes the following steps: The distribution density of the heating rods in the arrangement area is calculated as the heating distribution density value, and the reference density value is adjusted according to the heating distribution density value in a positive correlation; the larger the heating distribution density value, the larger the reference density value; the smaller the heating distribution density value, the smaller the reference density value.
9. A system for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater, characterized in that, The device includes a processor that performs the steps of the method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater as described in any one of claims 1-8.
10. A storage medium, characterized in that, The medium stores a program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the method for detecting the heating efficiency of a heating element in a water heater as described in any one of claims 1-8.