gas water heaters

Abstract

The present invention relates to a gas water heater. During the operation of the gas water heater, when hot water is needed again after being temporarily suspended for a period of time, during the initial stage of using the hot water of the gas water heater, the hot water temperature at the outlet of the main heat exchanger is relatively low due to a startup delay of the burner. At this time, for example, a controller controls a first switch valve to close and a second switch valve to open, so that water discharged from the main heat exchanger is discharged to the user through a first phase-change heat storage module and a hot water connection pipe. The first phase-change heat storage module heats and raises the temperature of the water discharged from the main heat exchanger using the heat stored in it, thereby improving the constant temperature effect. In addition, when a first temperature sensor can sense that the water temperature information of the hot water connection pipe is relatively low or high, the controller controls the first flow regulating valve to reduce or increase the opening so that the water temperature of the hot water connection pipe is controlled within a preset range, thereby improving the constant temperature effect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of water heaters, in particular to a gas water heater. Background Art

[0002] Traditionally, gas water heaters are installed in balconies or kitchens. After being turned off and then turned on again, due to the delay in cleaning the fan front of the gas water heater and re-igniting the burner, the hot water output from the hot water outlet pipe of the gas water heater will be hot and cold, and the water temperature fluctuates greatly, giving users an uncomfortable bathing experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The technical problem solved by the present invention is to provide a gas water heater which can effectively output hot water and improve the constant temperature effect.

[0004] The above technical problems are solved by the following technical solutions:

[0005] 1. A gas water heater, comprising: a main unit, the main unit being provided with a cold water connecting pipe, a cold water inlet pipe, a hot water outlet pipe and a hot water connecting pipe, the cold water connecting pipe being connected to the cold water inlet pipe, the hot water outlet pipe being connected to the hot water connecting pipe, and the hot water outlet pipe being provided with a first switch valve; a bypass pipe and a first phase-change heat storage module, the bypass pipe being arranged in parallel with the hot water outlet pipe, the first phase-change heat storage module being arranged on the bypass pipe, and the bypass pipe being further provided with a second switch valve; a connecting pipe and a first flow regulating valve, one end of the connecting pipe being connected to the water inlet end of the cold water inlet pipe, the other end of the connecting pipe being connected to the water outlet end of the hot water outlet pipe, and the first flow regulating valve being provided on the connecting pipe; a first temperature sensor and a controller, the first temperature sensor being provided on the hot water connecting pipe for obtaining water temperature information of the hot water connecting pipe, and the controller being electrically connected to the first temperature sensor, the first switch valve, the second switch valve and the first flow regulating valve, respectively.

[0006] The gas water heater of the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the background technology:

[0007] During the use of a gas water heater, if hot water is needed again after a period of pause, during the initial stage of using the gas water heater's hot water, the hot water temperature at the outlet of the main heat exchanger is low due to the startup delay of the burner. At this time, the controller controls the first on-off valve to close and the second on-off valve to open, so that the water discharged from the main heat exchanger is discharged to the user through the first phase-change heat storage module and the hot water connection pipe. The first phase-change heat storage module heats the water discharged from the main heat exchanger using its stored heat, thereby improving the constant temperature effect. In addition, when the first temperature sensor can sense that the water temperature information of the hot water connection pipe is low or high, the controller controls the first flow control valve to reduce or increase the opening to control the water temperature of the hot water connection pipe within a preset range, thereby improving the constant temperature effect.

[0008] In one embodiment, the gas water heater further includes a second temperature sensor and a third temperature sensor; the second temperature sensor is disposed on the cold water inlet pipe and is used to obtain water temperature information of the cold water inlet pipe; the third temperature sensor is disposed on the water outlet of the main heat exchanger and is used to obtain water temperature at the water outlet of the main heat exchanger; the second temperature sensor and the third temperature sensor are both electrically connected to the controller. In this way, the second temperature sensor can obtain temperature information of the cold water entering the cold water inlet pipe, and the third temperature sensor can obtain temperature information of the hot water output from the water outlet of the main heat exchanger. In this way, the controller can adjust the operating power of the burner according to the cold water temperature information of the cold water inlet pipe and the hot water temperature information of the water outlet of the main heat exchanger, and can also adjust the opening and closing of the first switch valve and the second switch valve accordingly, so that the outlet water temperature of the hot water joint pipe is within a preset range, thereby improving the constant temperature effect.

[0009] In one embodiment, the gas water heater further includes a water pump disposed on the cold water inlet pipe and electrically connected to the controller. Thus, during the startup phase of the gas water heater, due to the presence of cold water in the return pipe between the hot water connection pipe and the user's water point, the controller controls the operation of the water pump and the opening of the flow control valve, thereby pumping the cold water in the return pipe together with the cold water entering from the cold water connection pipe into the cold water inlet pipe, and then into the main heat exchanger for heating and raising the temperature, thereby achieving zero cold water discharge and improving the constant temperature effect.

[0010] In one embodiment, the main unit includes a housing, and the first phase-change heat storage module is disposed on the inner wall of the housing. Thus, on the one hand, the first phase-change heat storage module is mounted on the inner wall of the housing. The phase-change material of the first phase-change heat storage module typically coexists in a solid-liquid state during heat storage, effectively blocking various noises within the gas water heater, thereby reducing overall noise. On the other hand, the housing protects the first phase-change heat storage module, preventing it from being exposed to the outside of the housing and potentially causing damage.

[0011] In one embodiment, the gas water heater further includes a second phase-change heat storage module, which is disposed on the cold water inlet pipe. The heat stored in the second phase-change heat storage module can heat the cold water entering the cold water inlet pipe, particularly in winter when the cold water entering the cold water inlet pipe is relatively low. This module acts as a preheating device, enabling the gas water heater to heat up quickly and improving hot water production efficiency. Furthermore, by increasing the inlet temperature of the cold water inlet pipe, the outlet water temperature difference can be reduced, thereby reducing the generation of condensed water.

[0012] In one embodiment, the main unit includes a housing, and the second phase-change heat storage module is disposed on the inner wall of the housing. Thus, on the one hand, the second phase-change heat storage module is mounted on the inner wall of the housing. The phase-change material of the second phase-change heat storage module typically coexists in a solid-liquid state during heat storage, effectively blocking various noises within the gas water heater, thereby reducing overall noise. On the other hand, the housing protects the second phase-change heat storage module, preventing damage caused by exposure to the exterior of the housing.

[0013] In one embodiment, the first phase-change heat storage module is disposed on one inner wall of the housing, and the second phase-change heat storage module is disposed on the other inner wall of the housing. The space between the first and second phase-change heat storage modules is used to house a burner. In this way, the first phase-change heat storage module blocks noise emitted from one side of the housing, while the second phase-change heat storage module blocks noise emitted from the other side, thereby achieving a good noise reduction effect. Furthermore, the first and second phase-change heat storage modules are disposed on opposite sides of the housing, respectively, resulting in a rational layout, a compact structure, and a small overall volume.

[0014] In one embodiment, the shape of the first phase-change heat storage module is adapted to the shape of one side of the casing, and the shape of the second phase-change heat storage module is adapted to the shape of the other side of the casing.

[0015] In one embodiment, the main unit also includes a fan, a burner and a main heat exchanger; the fan and the burner are electrically connected to the controller; the water inlet end of the main heat exchanger is connected to the cold water inlet pipe, and the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger is connected to the hot water outlet pipe and the bypass pipe respectively.

[0016] In one embodiment, the first phase change heat storage module includes: an inner shell, an outer shell, a thermal insulation material, a heat exchange component and a phase change material; the inner shell is sleeved inside the outer shell, and the thermal insulation material is filled in the area between the inner shell and the outer shell; the heat exchange component includes a heat exchange pipe, a water inlet connecting pipe and a water outlet connecting pipe, the two ends of the heat exchange pipe are respectively connected to the water inlet connecting pipe and the water outlet connecting pipe, the heat exchange pipe is arranged inside the inner shell, the water inlet connecting pipe and the water outlet connecting pipe both sequentially pass through the inner shell and the outer shell and extend to the outside of the outer shell, the water inlet connecting pipe and the water outlet connecting pipe are arranged in series on the bypass pipe; the phase change material is filled inside the inner shell and is located outside the heat exchange pipe. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The drawings constituting a part of this application are used to provide a further understanding of the present invention. The illustrative embodiments of the present invention and their descriptions are used to explain the present invention and do not constitute improper limitations on the present invention.

[0018] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative work.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of a gas water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 2 A schematic structural diagram of a gas water heater according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic structural diagram of a first phase change heat storage module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the decomposition structure;

[0023] Figure 5 for Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the axial cross-section structure;

[0024] Figure 6 for Figure 4A schematic structural diagram of the first cover body, the second cover body, the water inlet connecting pipe and the water outlet connecting pipe;

[0025] Figure 7 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a structure in which heat exchange fins are arranged outside one of the straight pipe sections;

[0026] Reference numerals:

[0027] 10. Main unit; 11. Cold water connection pipe; 12. Cold water inlet pipe; 13. Hot water outlet pipe; 14. Hot water connection pipe; 15. Casing; 16. Fan; 17. Burner; 18. Main heat exchanger; 19. Gas connection pipe; 20. Bypass pipe; 30. First phase-change heat storage module; 31. Inner casing; 311. First injection port; 312. First blocking member; 313. Connecting pipe; 314. First sealing gasket; 315. First cylinder; 3151. First opening; 316. First cover; 3161. First guide pipe; 3162. Second guide pipe; 32. Outer casing; 321. First avoidance hole; 322. Second injection port; 323. Second blocking member; 324. Second cylinder ; 3241, second opening; 325, second cover; 3251, second avoidance hole; 3252, third avoidance hole; 326, second sealing gasket; 33, thermal insulation material; 34, heat exchange component; 341, heat exchange tube; 3411, straight pipe section; 3412, elbow pipe; 3413, heat exchange fin; 342, water inlet connecting pipe; 343, water outlet connecting pipe; 344, connecting joint; 35, phase change material; 40, connecting pipe; 51, first flow regulating valve; 52, second flow regulating valve; 61, first switch valve; 62, second switch valve; 70, water pump; 80, second phase change heat storage module; T1, first temperature sensor; T2, second temperature sensor; T3, third temperature sensor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] To make the above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages of the present invention more readily apparent, specific embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description sets forth numerous specific details to facilitate a full understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention can be implemented in many other ways than those described herein, and those skilled in the art may make similar modifications without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0029] See Figure 1 or Figure 2 , Figure 1 FIG2 shows a schematic structural diagram of a gas water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 A schematic structural diagram of a gas water heater according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 2 Relative to Figure 1A second phase-change heat storage module 80 is added. One embodiment of the present invention provides a gas water heater comprising a main unit 10, a bypass line 20, a first phase-change heat storage module 30, a connecting pipe 40, a first flow control valve 51, a first temperature sensor T1, and a controller. The main unit 10 is equipped with a cold water connection pipe 11, a cold water inlet pipe 12, a hot water outlet pipe 13, and a hot water connection pipe 14. The cold water connection pipe 11 is connected to the cold water inlet pipe 12, and the hot water outlet pipe 13 is connected to the hot water connection pipe 14. A first on-off valve 61 is provided on the hot water outlet pipe 13. The bypass line 20 is arranged in parallel with the hot water outlet pipe 13, and the first phase-change heat storage module 30 is disposed on the bypass line 20. The bypass line 20 is also equipped with a second on-off valve 62. One end of the connecting pipe 40 is connected to the water inlet end of the cold water inlet pipe 12, and the other end of the connecting pipe 40 is connected to the water outlet end of the hot water outlet pipe 13. The first flow control valve 51 is mounted on the connecting pipe 40. The first temperature sensor T1 is mounted on the hot water connection pipe 14 to obtain water temperature information from the hot water connection pipe 14. The controller is electrically connected to the first temperature sensor T1, the first on / off valve 61, the second on / off valve 62, and the first flow control valve 51.

[0030] In the aforementioned gas water heater, when hot water is needed again after a period of time (e.g., less than 120 seconds) during operation, during the initial phase of hot water use (e.g., less than 20 seconds), the hot water temperature at the outlet of the main heat exchanger 18 is relatively low due to a startup delay in the burner 17. At this time, the controller controls the first on-off valve 61 to close and the second on-off valve 62 to open, allowing the water discharged from the main heat exchanger 18 to be discharged to the user through the first phase-change heat storage module 30 and the hot water connection pipe 14. The first phase-change heat storage module 30 uses its stored heat to heat the water discharged from the main heat exchanger 18, thereby improving the constant temperature effect. Furthermore, when the first temperature sensor T1 senses that the water temperature of the hot water connection pipe 14 is relatively low or high, the controller controls the first flow control valve 51 to decrease or increase its opening to maintain the water temperature of the hot water connection pipe 14 within a preset range, thereby improving the constant temperature effect.

[0031] It should be noted that when energy storage is required in the first phase-change heat storage module 30, the controller controls the first on-off valve 61 to close and the second on-off valve 62 to open, allowing the hot water in the main heat exchanger 18 to be discharged externally through the first phase-change heat storage module 30 and the hot water connection pipe 14. During the process of the hot water passing through the first phase-change heat storage module 30, thermal energy is stored in the first phase-change heat storage module 30. Furthermore, when the first temperature sensor T1 senses that the water temperature information of the hot water connection pipe 14 is higher than the phase change temperature point of the first phase-change heat storage module 30, the controller accordingly controls the first on-off valve 61 to open and the second on-off valve 62 to close, allowing the hot water in the main heat exchanger 18 to be discharged externally through the hot water outlet pipe 13 and the hot water connection pipe 14, i.e., no longer passing through the first phase-change heat storage module 30.

[0032] It should also be noted that the "cold water connecting pipe 11" can be "a part of the cold water inlet pipe 12", that is, the "cold water connecting pipe 11" and the "other parts of the cold water inlet pipe 12" are manufactured as one piece; it can also be an independent component that can be separated from the "other parts of the cold water inlet pipe 12", that is, the "cold water connecting pipe 11" can be manufactured independently and then combined with the "other parts of the cold water inlet pipe 12" into a whole.

[0033] It should also be noted that the "hot water connecting pipe 14" can be "a part of the hot water outlet pipe 13", that is, the "hot water connecting pipe 14" and the "other parts of the hot water outlet pipe 13" are integrally formed; it can also be an independent component that can be separated from the "other parts of the hot water outlet pipe 13", that is, the "hot water connecting pipe 14" can be manufactured independently and then combined with the "other parts of the hot water outlet pipe 13" into a whole.

[0034] Please refer to Figure 1 or Figure 2 Furthermore, the gas water heater also includes a second temperature sensor T2 and a third temperature sensor T3. The second temperature sensor T2 is disposed on the cold water inlet pipe 12 and is used to obtain water temperature information there. The third temperature sensor T3 is disposed on the water outlet of the main heat exchanger 18 and is used to obtain water temperature information there. Both the second temperature sensor T2 and the third temperature sensor T3 are electrically connected to the controller. Thus, the second temperature sensor T2 can obtain the temperature information of the cold water entering the cold water inlet pipe 12, and the third temperature sensor T3 can obtain the temperature information of the hot water output from the water outlet of the main heat exchanger 18. Based on the cold water temperature information from the cold water inlet pipe 12 and the hot water temperature information from the water outlet of the main heat exchanger 18, the controller can adjust the operating power of the burner 17 accordingly. It can also control the opening and closing of the first on-off valve 61 and the second on-off valve 62 accordingly, ensuring that the outlet water temperature of the hot water connection pipe 14 is within a preset range, thereby improving the constant temperature effect.

[0035] Please refer to Figure 1 or Figure 2 In one embodiment, the gas water heater further includes a water pump 70. The water pump 70 is disposed on the cold water inlet pipe 12 and is electrically connected to the controller. Thus, during the startup phase of the gas water heater, since cold water exists in the return pipe between the hot water connection pipe 14 and the user's water point (e.g., shower, faucet, etc.), the controller controls the operation of the water pump 70 and adjusts the opening of the flow regulating valve, thereby pumping the cold water in the return pipe together with the cold water entering from the cold water connection pipe 11 into the cold water inlet pipe 12 and into the main heat exchanger 18 for heating and temperature increase, thereby achieving zero cold water discharge and improving the constant temperature effect.

[0036] Please refer to Figure 1 or Figure 2 In one embodiment, the gas water heater further includes a second flow regulating valve 52 , which is disposed on the cold water inlet pipe 12 . The water flow rate of the cold water inlet pipe 12 can be adjusted by the second flow regulating valve 52 .

[0037] Please refer to Figure 1 or Figure 2 In one embodiment, the main unit 10 includes a housing 15. A first phase-change heat storage module 30 is disposed on the inner wall of the housing 15. Thus, on the one hand, the first phase-change heat storage module 30 is mounted on the inner wall of the housing 15. The phase-change material 35 of the first phase-change heat storage module 30 typically forms a solid-liquid coexistence when in the heat storage state, effectively blocking various noises within the gas water heater (such as explosion noise or combustion oscillation noise), thereby reducing the overall noise level of the unit. On the other hand, the housing 15 protects the first phase-change heat storage module 30, preventing it from being exposed to the outside of the housing 15 and potentially causing damage.

[0038] See also Figure 2 Furthermore, the gas water heater also includes a second phase-change heat storage module 80. The second phase-change heat storage module 80 is disposed on the cold water inlet pipe 12. In this way, the heat stored in the second phase-change heat storage module 80 can heat the cold water entering the cold water inlet pipe 12. This serves as a preheating mechanism, especially in winter when the cold water entering the cold water inlet pipe 12 is at a low temperature. This allows the gas water heater to quickly heat up, improving the efficiency of hot water production. Furthermore, by increasing the inlet temperature of the cold water inlet pipe 12, the outlet water temperature difference can be reduced, reducing the generation of condensed water.

[0039] It should be noted that the phase change temperature of the phase change material 35 of the first phase change heat storage module 30 is higher than that of the second phase change heat storage module 80. The phase change temperature of the phase change material 35 of the first phase change heat storage module 30 is, for example, 40°C, 45°C, 50°C, 55°C, 60°C, 65°C, etc., without limitation herein. The phase change temperature of the phase change material of the second phase change heat storage module 80 is, for example, 10°C, 15°C, 20°C, 25°C, 30°C, 35°C, etc., without limitation herein.

[0040] See also Figure 2 In one embodiment, the main unit 10 includes a housing 15. The second phase-change heat storage module 80 is disposed on the inner wall of the housing 15. Thus, on the one hand, the second phase-change heat storage module 80 is mounted on the inner wall of the housing 15. The phase-change material of the second phase-change heat storage module 80 is typically a solid-liquid coexistent in the heat storage state, which effectively blocks various noises within the gas water heater (such as explosion noise or combustion oscillation noise), thereby reducing the overall noise of the unit. On the other hand, the housing 15 protects the second phase-change heat storage module 80, preventing it from being exposed to the outside of the housing 15 and causing damage.

[0041] See also Figure 2 In one embodiment, the first phase-change heat storage module 30 is disposed on one inner wall of the housing 15, and the second phase-change heat storage module 80 is disposed on the other inner wall of the housing 15. The space between the first phase-change heat storage module 30 and the second phase-change heat storage module 80 is used to house the burner 17. In this way, the first phase-change heat storage module 30 blocks noise emitted from one side of the housing 15, while the second phase-change heat storage module 80 blocks noise emitted from the other side of the housing 15, thereby achieving a good noise reduction effect. Furthermore, the first phase-change heat storage module 30 and the second phase-change heat storage module 80 are disposed on opposite sides of the housing 15, respectively, resulting in a reasonable layout, a compact structure, and a small overall volume.

[0042] See also Figure 2 Furthermore, the first phase-change heat storage module 30 and the second phase-change heat storage module 80 are not only arranged on the left and right side surfaces of the casing 15, but also extend to the front side surface of the casing 15 (the portion corresponding to the front surface of the casing 15), thereby also blocking noise from being emitted outward through the front side surface of the casing 15. In this way, the first phase-change heat storage module 30 and the second phase-change heat storage module 80 are arranged on the left and right side surfaces of the casing 15, as well as on the front side surface of the casing 15, which can achieve a good noise reduction effect. It should be noted that the front surface of the casing 15 refers to the surface facing away from the wall when the gas water heater is installed on the wall, and the left and right side surfaces of the casing 15 are the positions arranged on the left and right sides of the front surface of the casing 15, respectively.

[0043] In one embodiment, the shape of the first phase-change heat storage module 30 is adapted to the shape of one side of the housing 15, and the shape of the second phase-change heat storage module 80 is adapted to the shape of the other side of the housing 15. Specifically, as an example, when the housing 15 is rectangular, the shape of the first phase-change heat storage module 30 is adapted to the shape of the side panel on one side of the housing 15, specifically, a rectangular block; the shape of the second phase-change heat storage module 80 is adapted to the shape of the side panel on the other side of the housing 15, also in the shape of a rectangular block. Furthermore, as another example, when the housing 15 is cylindrical, the shape of the first phase-change heat storage module 30 is adapted to the shape of the side panel on one side of the housing 15, specifically, a circular arc block; the shape of the second phase-change heat storage module 80 is adapted to the shape of the side panel on the other side of the housing 15, also in the shape of a circular arc block.

[0044] See also Figure 2 In one embodiment, the main unit 10 further includes a fan 16, a burner 17, and a main heat exchanger 18. The fan 16 and the burner 17 are both electrically connected to the controller. The water inlet end of the main heat exchanger 18 is connected to the cold water inlet pipe 12, and the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger 18 is connected to the hot water outlet pipe 13 and the bypass pipe, respectively. Specifically, the burner 17 is connected to a gas connector pipe 19 through a gas inlet pipe. The gas connector pipe 19 is used to pass gas. The gas enters the burner 17 through the gas connector pipe 19 and the gas inlet pipe and is burned by the burner 17, providing heat to the main heat exchanger 18. The main heat exchanger 18 heats the incoming cold water and the generated hot water enters the hot water outlet pipe 13 or the bypass pipe. When the fan 16 is working, it discharges the generated high-temperature flue gas to the outside.

[0045] Specifically, see Figure 2 The cold water connecting pipe 11, the gas connecting pipe 19, and the hot water connecting pipe 14 are all installed on the casing 15, one end of which extends into the interior of the casing 15 and is connected to the pipe fittings inside the casing 15, and the other end is located outside the casing 15 and is connected to the pipe fittings outside the casing 15.

[0046] It should be noted that the structures of the first phase change heat storage module 30 and the second phase change heat storage module 80 are similar. The following will specifically describe the first phase change heat storage module 30 as an example, and the second phase change heat storage module 80 will not be described in detail.

[0047] See Figures 3 to 5 , Figure 3 FIG. 1 shows a schematic structural diagram of a first phase change heat storage module 30 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 Shown Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the decomposition structure, Figure 5 Shown Figure 3In one embodiment, the first phase change heat storage module 30 includes an inner shell 31, an outer shell 32, and a heat insulation material 33 (such as Figure 5 The position indicated by 33 is the heat-insulating material 33 (the physical structure is not shown in the figure), the heat exchange component 34 and the phase change material 35 (such as Figure 5 The position indicated by 35 is the phase change material 35, and the physical structure is not shown in the figure. The inner shell 31 is sleeved inside the outer shell 32, and the thermal insulation material 33 is filled in the area between the inner shell 31 and the outer shell 32. The heat exchange component 34 includes a heat exchange tube 341, a water inlet connecting tube 342, and a water outlet connecting tube 343. The two ends of the heat exchange tube 341 are respectively connected to the water inlet connecting tube 342 and the water outlet connecting tube 343, and the heat exchange tube 341 is arranged inside the inner shell 31. The water inlet connecting tube 342 and the water outlet connecting tube 343 both pass through the inner shell 31 and the outer shell 32 in sequence and extend to the outside of the outer shell 32. The phase change material 35 is filled inside the inner shell 31 and is located outside the heat exchange tube 341.

[0048] See Figure 1 、 Figure 3 and Figure 5 In the first phase-change heat storage module 30, cold water enters the heat exchange tube 341 through the water inlet connection pipe 342. The heat of the phase-change material 35 is released and transferred to the heat exchange tube 341. The heat exchange tube 341 heats the cold water to a preset temperature, thereby reducing water temperature fluctuations. Furthermore, because the outer shell 32 is disposed outside the inner shell 31, and the insulation material 33 is located in the area between the inner shell 31 and the outer shell 32, the insulation material 33 wraps around the outer shell 31, providing excellent insulation. This significantly reduces the loss of heat from the inner shell 31 to the environment, effectively improving the heat storage capacity of the first phase-change heat storage module 30 and thereby extending the insulation period.

[0049] It should be noted that the "water inlet connecting pipe 342 and the water outlet connecting pipe 343" can be "part of the heat exchange pipe 341", that is, the "water inlet connecting pipe 342 and the water outlet connecting pipe 343" and the "other parts of the heat exchange pipe 341" are manufactured as one piece; it can also be an independent component that can be separated from the "other parts of the heat exchange pipe 341", that is, the "water inlet connecting pipe 342 and the water outlet connecting pipe 343" can be manufactured independently and then combined with the "other parts of the heat exchange pipe 341" into a whole.

[0050] See also Figure 3 、 Figure 5 and Figure 6 , Figure 6 Shown Figure 4The structure of the first cover 316, second cover 325, water inlet connection pipe 342, and water outlet connection pipe 343 is schematically shown. Furthermore, the inner shell 31 is provided with a first injection port 311 and a first sealing member 312 detachably mounted on the first injection port 311. This allows the liquid phase change material 35 to be injected into the inner shell 31 as needed when the first sealing member 312 is opened.

[0051] See also Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figure 6 Furthermore, the inner shell 31 is provided with a connecting tube 313, and the wall of the first injection port 311 is connected to one end of the connecting tube 313. The outer shell 32 is provided with a first avoidance hole 321 corresponding to the position of the connecting tube 313, and the connecting tube 313 is disposed in the first avoidance hole 321. The first blocking member 312 is detachably disposed at the other end of the connecting tube 313 and is located outside the outer shell 32. In this way, during the assembly and production stage of the first phase-change heat storage module 30, the phase-change material 35 can be injected into the inner shell 31 through the first injection port 311, and then the first blocking member 312 can be used to block the first injection port 311 to prevent leakage. In addition, when the first phase-change heat storage module 30 is in use, if it is necessary to add phase-change material 35 to the inner shell 31, the first blocking member 312 can be removed and then the phase-change material 35 can be injected into the inner shell 31 through the first injection port 311. In addition, when the phase change material 35 decays, the phase change material 35 can be heated to become liquid, and then the first blocking member 312 can be opened for replacement, thereby eliminating the need to replace the entire first phase change heat storage module 30 .

[0052] See also Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figure 6 Furthermore, the first sealing member 312 is a first bolt, and the inner wall of the other end of the connecting tube 313 is provided with threads corresponding to the first bolt. A first sealing gasket 314 is provided on the outer sleeve of the first bolt, contacting the end surface of the other end of the connecting tube 313. This allows for easy assembly and disassembly of the first sealing member 312 by turning the first bolt, making operation more convenient. Furthermore, the first sealing gasket 314 ensures a tight seal between the first bolt and the connecting tube 313, preventing leakage of the phase change material 35 through the connecting tube 313.

[0053] It should be noted that, in order to ensure the sealing between the other end of the connecting pipe 313 and the hole wall of the first avoidance hole 321 , the other end of the connecting pipe 313 is connected to the hole wall of the first avoidance hole 321 by welding.

[0054] It should also be noted that the first blocking member 312 is not limited to being a first bolt, but may also be, for example, a clamping member, an elastic plug, etc., which is not limited here.

[0055] See Figures 3 to 6 Furthermore, the thermal insulation material 33 is a foam material. The thermal insulation material 33 fills the area between the inner shell 31 and the outer shell 32. The thermal insulation material 33 is wrapped around the outside of the inner shell 31. In this way, during the manufacturing process, after the inner shell 31 is set in the outer shell 32, a foaming agent is filled into the area between the inner shell 31 and the outer shell 32. The foaming agent is, for example, cyclopentane, polyurethane, etc. After being injected for a period of time, the foaming agent will solidify to form a foam material. The foam material plays a role in heat preservation and can also enhance the stability of the connection between the inner shell 31 and the outer shell 32. In addition, when the thermal insulation material 33 is wrapped around the outside of the inner shell 31, the thermal insulation effect of the inner shell 31 is better.

[0056] See Figures 3 to 6 In one embodiment, the outer shell 32 is provided with a second injection port 322 and a second sealing member 323 detachably mounted on the second injection port 322. Thus, during the assembly and production of the first phase-change thermal storage module 30, the second sealing member 323 is opened, the foaming agent is injected into the area between the inner shell 31 and the outer shell 32, and then the second injection port 322 is sealed by the second sealing member 323.

[0057] Similarly, the second sealing member 323 is, for example, a second bolt, and the wall of the second injection port 322 is provided with threads compatible with the second bolt, which facilitates assembly and disassembly operations. Of course, the second sealing member 323 can also be, for example, a clip or elastic plug provided at the second injection port 322, which is not limited here and can be provided according to actual needs. In addition, the outer sleeve of the second bolt is provided with a second sealing gasket 326, which contacts the head of the second bolt and the plate surface of the outer shell 32. The second sealing gasket 326 ensures sealing and prevents leakage of the thermal insulation material 33 through the second injection port 322.

[0058] See also Figures 3 to 6 In one embodiment, the inner shell 31 includes a first cylindrical body 315 and a first cover 316. One end of the first cylindrical body 315 is provided with a first opening 3151, and the other end of the first cylindrical body 315 is a closed end. The first cover 316 is detachably mounted on the end of the first cylindrical body 315 provided with the first opening 3151. Similarly, the outer shell 32 includes a second cylindrical body 324 and a second cover 325. One end of the second cylindrical body 324 is provided with a second opening 3241, and the other end of the second cylindrical body 324 is a closed end. The second cover 325 is detachably mounted on the end of the second cylindrical body 324 provided with the second opening 3241.

[0059] Specifically, the detachable connection between the first barrel 315 and the first cover 316 is, for example, threaded, snap-fit, or adhesively connected, which is not limited here and is designed according to actual needs. In addition, the first barrel 315 and the second barrel 324 are, for example, cylindrical, cubic, etc., which are not limited here.

[0060] See also Figures 3 to 6 Furthermore, a first guide tube 3161 and a second guide tube 3162 are provided on the surface of the first cover 316. A second avoidance hole 3251 corresponding to the position of the first guide tube 3161 and a third avoidance hole 3252 corresponding to the position of the second guide tube 3162 are provided on the second cover 325. The first guide tube 3161 is disposed in the second avoidance hole 3251, and the second guide tube 3162 is disposed in the third avoidance hole 3252. The water inlet connecting pipe 342 is sleeved within the first guide tube 3161, and the water outlet connecting pipe 343 is sleeved within the second guide tube 3162. In this way, on the one hand, the water inlet connecting pipe 342 and the water outlet connecting pipe 343 pass through the first guide pipe 3161 and the second guide pipe 3162 to the outside of the outer shell 32 respectively; on the other hand, the water inlet connecting pipe 342 and the water outlet connecting pipe 343 are both led outward through the end surface where the second cover body 325 is located, which makes it convenient to connect to the pipeline of the gas water heater.

[0061] Specifically, to ensure the sealing of the inner housing 31, the outer wall of the first guide pipe 3161 is welded to the wall of the second avoidance hole 3251, and the outer wall of the second guide pipe 3162 is welded to the wall of the third avoidance hole 3252. Furthermore, a sealing ring is provided between the outer wall of the water inlet connecting pipe 342 and the inner wall of the first guide pipe 3161, and a sealing ring is provided between the outer wall of the water outlet connecting pipe 343 and the inner wall of the second guide pipe 3162.

[0062] Of course, as an optional solution, the water inlet connecting pipe 342 and the water outlet connecting pipe 343 can also be arranged on different end surfaces of the outer shell 32, which is not limited here.

[0063] Furthermore, in order to facilitate the water inlet connecting pipe 342 and the water outlet connecting pipe 343 to be arranged in series on the hot water outlet pipe 13 of the gas water heater, both the water inlet connecting pipe 342 and the water outlet connecting pipe 343 are provided with a connecting joint 344 .

[0064] See also Figures 3 to 6 In one embodiment, the heat exchange tube 341 is an S-shaped tube with heat exchange fins 3413 disposed on its outer wall. This S-shaped tube fully utilizes the space within the inner shell 31, extending the heat exchange path as much as possible. This prolongs the time the cold water is heated while passing through the heat exchange tube 341, ensuring effective heat exchange. Furthermore, the heat exchange fins 3413 enhance the heat exchange between the heat exchange tube 341 and the phase change material 35.

[0065] See also Figures 3 to 7 , Figure 7 Shown Figure 4 Schematic diagram of a structure in which a heat exchange fin 3413 is provided on the outside of one of the straight pipe sections 3411. Specifically, the heat exchange pipe 341 includes several straight pipe sections 3411 and elbow pipes 3412 that connect the several straight pipe sections 3411 in series. The heat exchange fin 3413 is provided on the outer wall of the straight pipe section 3411.

[0066] It should be noted that when one element is connected to another element, or when one element is mounted on another element, it is understood that the two elements may be connected by, for example, bolts, screws, pins, rivets, or other mounting members, or may be fixedly connected by clamping, welding, or integral molding. The integral molding method may be extrusion, casting, press-fitting, injection molding, or other processes.

[0067] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. In order to make the description concise, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0068] The above embodiments merely illustrate several implementations of the present invention, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent. It should be noted that a person skilled in the art would be able to make various modifications and improvements without departing from the spirit of the present invention, all of which fall within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the patent for this invention shall be determined by the appended claims.

[0069] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" and the like to indicate orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0070] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of the technical features being referred to. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In the description of the present invention, "plurality" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0071] In the present invention, unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "installed," "connected," "connect," "fixed," etc. should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connection, detachable connection, or integration; mechanical connection, electrical connection; direct connection, or indirect connection through an intermediate medium; internal communication between two components, or interaction between two components, unless otherwise specified. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on specific circumstances.

[0072] In the present invention, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, when a first feature is "above" or "below" a second feature, it may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediary. Furthermore, when a first feature is "above," "above," or "above" a second feature, it may mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is at a higher level than the second feature. When a first feature is "below," "below," or "below" a second feature, it may mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is at a lower level than the second feature.

[0073] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "disposed on" another element, it may be directly on the other element or there may be an intermediate element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it may be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intermediate element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only implementation methods.

Claims

1. A gas water heater, characterized in that: The gas water heater comprises: A main unit (10), the main unit (10) being provided with a cold water joint pipe (11), a cold water inlet pipe (12), a hot water outlet pipe (13) and a hot water joint pipe (14), the cold water joint pipe (11) being connected to the cold water inlet pipe (12), the hot water outlet pipe (13) being connected to the hot water joint pipe (14), and a first switch valve (61) being provided on the hot water outlet pipe (13); A bypass pipeline (20) and a first phase-change heat storage module (30), the bypass pipeline (20) and the hot water outlet pipe (13) are arranged in parallel, the first phase-change heat storage module (30) is arranged on the bypass pipeline (20), and a second switch valve (62) is also provided on the bypass pipeline (20); A connecting pipe (40) and a first flow regulating valve (51), one end of the connecting pipe (40) being connected to the water inlet end of the cold water inlet pipe (12), and the other end of the connecting pipe (40) being connected to the water outlet end of the hot water outlet pipe (13), and the first flow regulating valve (51) being arranged on the connecting pipe (40); a first temperature sensor (T1) and a controller, wherein the first temperature sensor (T1) is arranged on the hot water joint pipe (14) and is used to obtain water temperature information of the hot water joint pipe (14); and the controller is electrically connected to the first temperature sensor (T1), the first switch valve (61), the second switch valve (62), and the first flow regulating valve (51), respectively; The main unit (10) comprises a housing (15) and a main heat exchanger (18); the first phase-change heat storage module (30) is arranged on the inner wall of the housing (15); the water inlet end of the main heat exchanger (18) is connected to the cold water inlet pipe (12); the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger (18) is connected to the hot water outlet pipe (13) and the bypass pipe respectively; When it is necessary to store energy in the first phase-change heat storage module (30), the controller controls the first switch valve (61) to close and the second switch valve (62) to open, and the hot water in the main heat exchanger (18) is discharged outward through the first phase-change heat storage module (30) and the hot water joint pipe (14). In the process of the hot water passing through the first phase-change heat storage module (30), the heat energy can be stored in the first phase-change heat storage module (30); when the first temperature sensor (T1) senses that the water temperature information of the hot water joint pipe (14) is higher than the phase change temperature point of the first phase-change heat storage module (30), the controller correspondingly controls the first switch valve (61) to open and the second switch valve (62) to close, and the hot water in the main heat exchanger (18) is discharged outward through the hot water outlet pipe (13) and the hot water joint pipe (14).

2. The gas water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The gas water heater further comprises a second temperature sensor (T2) and a third temperature sensor (T3); the second temperature sensor (T2) is arranged on the cold water inlet pipe (12) and is used to obtain water temperature information of the cold water inlet pipe (12); the third temperature sensor (T3) is arranged on the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger (18) and is used to obtain the water temperature of the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger (18); the second temperature sensor (T2) and the third temperature sensor (T3) are both electrically connected to the controller.

3. The gas water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that The gas water heater further comprises a water pump (70); the water pump (70) is arranged on the cold water inlet pipe (12), and the water pump (70) is electrically connected to the controller.

4. The gas water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that The gas water heater further comprises a second phase-change heat storage module (80), wherein the second phase-change heat storage module (80) is arranged on the cold water inlet pipe (12); The phase change temperature point of the phase change material (35) of the first phase change heat storage module (30) is higher than the phase change temperature point of the phase change material of the second phase change heat storage module (80).

5. The gas water heater according to claim 4, characterized in that: The second phase-change heat storage module (80) is arranged on the inner wall of the casing (15).

6. The gas water heater according to claim 5, characterized in that: The first phase-change heat storage module (30) is arranged on one inner wall of the housing (15), and the second phase-change heat storage module (80) is arranged on the other inner wall of the housing (15); the space between the first phase-change heat storage module (30) and the second phase-change heat storage module (80) is used to arrange a burner (17).

7. The gas water heater according to claim 6, characterized in that: The shape of the first phase-change heat storage module (30) is adapted to the shape of one side of the housing (15), and the shape of the second phase-change heat storage module (80) is adapted to the shape of the other side of the housing (15).

8. The gas water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that: When the housing (15) is in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped, the first phase-change heat storage module (30) is in the shape of a rectangular block, and the second phase-change heat storage module (80) is in the shape of a rectangular block; when the housing (15) is in the shape of a cylindrical tube, the first phase-change heat storage module (30) is in the shape of an arc-shaped block, and the second phase-change heat storage module (80) is in the shape of an arc-shaped block.

9. The gas water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that The host (10) further includes a fan (16) and a burner (17); the fan (16) and the burner (17) are both electrically connected to the controller.

10. The gas water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The first phase-change heat storage module (30) comprises: an inner shell (31), an outer shell (32), a heat-insulating material (33), a heat-exchanging component (34) and a phase-change material (35); the inner shell (31) is sleeved inside the outer shell (32), and the heat-insulating material (33) is filled in the area between the inner shell (31) and the outer shell (32); the heat-exchanging component (34) comprises a heat-exchanging pipe (341), a water-inlet connecting pipe (342) and a water-outlet connecting pipe (343); both ends of the heat-exchanging pipe (341) are connected to the water-inlet connecting pipe (342) and the water-outlet connecting pipe (343); 42), the water outlet connecting pipe (343) is connected, the heat exchange pipe (341) is arranged inside the inner shell (31), the water inlet connecting pipe (342) and the water outlet connecting pipe (343) are sequentially passed through the inner shell (31) and the outer shell (32) and extended to the outside of the outer shell (32), the water inlet connecting pipe (342) and the water outlet connecting pipe (343) are arranged in series on the bypass pipe; the phase change material (35) is filled in the interior of the inner shell (31) and is located outside the heat exchange pipe (341).

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