Gas water heater and working method thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to a gas water heater and a working method thereof. The gas water heater comprises a main unit, a phase change heat storage module, a water pump and a controller. The main unit comprises a main heat exchanger, a cold water joint pipe, a first cold water inlet pipe, a second cold water inlet pipe, a return water pipeline, a first hot water outlet pipe and a hot water joint pipe. When the hot water outlet temperature set by the user is low, the cold water joint pipe transports the cold water to the second cold water inlet pipe, and the second cold water inlet pipe transports the cold water to the first hot water outlet pipe, and flows through the phase change heat storage module arranged on the first hot water outlet pipe. The phase change heat storage module heats the incoming cold water to a preset temperature, that is, the low temperature temperature rise is achieved through the phase change heat storage module, and the hot water with the low temperature temperature rise is provided to the user through the hot water joint pipe. At this time, the cold water does not need to flow through the main heat exchanger, and the burner does not need to be turned on. In this heating mode, the water temperature is heated by the heat energy stored in the phase change heat storage module, so that silent heating is achieved, combustion noise is eliminated, and the user experience is improved.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Gas water heaters have a large user base due to their features such as instant heating, high thermal efficiency, and fast heating speed. Generally, gas water heaters are installed in balconies or kitchens to provide domestic hot water. However, especially in summer, when the inlet water temperature of the gas water heater is high, even at the minimum firepower of the gas water heater, the hot water temperature at the outlet of the gas water heater may still reach about 40°C, making the human body feel that the water temperature is high. In addition, if the outlet water temperature of the gas water heater is reduced by forcibly lowering the minimum power of the gas water heater in order to reduce the outlet water temperature of the gas water heater, it is easy to cause abnormal combustion phenomena such as flameout and flame separation. How to reduce the minimum temperature rise and maintain stable combustion is a difficult problem in the field of gas water heaters. Summary of the invention

[0003] The first technical problem solved by the present invention is to provide a gas water heater which can effectively achieve a smaller temperature rise, improve the user's water use comfort, and control the outlet water temperature within a preset range.

[0004] The second technical problem solved by the present invention is to provide a working method of a gas water heater, which can effectively achieve a smaller temperature rise, improve the user's water use comfort, and control the outlet water temperature within a preset range.

[0005] The first technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0006] A gas water heater, the gas water heater comprising: a main unit, the main unit comprising a main heat exchanger, a cold water joint pipe, a first cold water inlet pipe, a second cold water inlet pipe, a return pipe, a first hot water outlet pipe and a hot water joint pipe, the cold water joint pipe is connected to the first cold water inlet pipe, the first cold water inlet pipe is connected to the water inlet end of the main heat exchanger, the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger is connected to the water inlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe, the water outlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe is connected to the hot water joint pipe, one end of the return pipe is connected to the The outlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe is connected, the other end of the return pipe is connected to the cold water joint pipe, one end of the second cold water inlet pipe is connected to the inlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe, and the other end of the second cold water inlet pipe is connected to the cold water joint pipe; a phase change heat storage module, the phase change heat storage module is arranged in series on the first hot water outlet pipe; a water pump and a controller, the water pump is arranged in series on the first cold water inlet pipe or the return pipe, and the controller is electrically connected to the water pump and the main unit respectively.

[0007] The gas water heater of the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the background technology:

[0008] For the above-mentioned gas water heater, when the hot water outlet temperature set by the user is relatively low, such as 32°C, 35°C, etc., the cold water joint pipe transports the cold water to the second cold water inlet pipe, and the second cold water inlet pipe transports the cold water to the first hot water outlet pipe, and flows through the phase change heat storage module provided on the first hot water outlet pipe. The phase change heat storage module heats the incoming cold water to the required temperature, that is, the low-temperature temperature rise is achieved through the phase change heat storage module, and the hot water with low-temperature temperature rise is discharged to the user through the hot water joint pipe. At this time, the cold water does not need to flow through the main heat exchanger, and the burner does not need to be turned on. In this heating mode, the water temperature is heated by the heat energy stored in the phase change heat storage module, which realizes silent heating, eliminates combustion noise, and improves the user experience; when the hot water outlet temperature set by the user is relatively high, such as 42°C, 45°C, etc., the cold water joint pipe transports the cold water to the first cold water inlet pipe, and the first cold water inlet pipe transports the cold water to the main heat exchanger. The main heat exchanger can quickly raise the cold water to a preset high temperature and then output it to the outside, and discharge it to the user through the hot water joint pipe. In this way, it can effectively achieve a smaller temperature rise and control the outlet water temperature within a preset range.

[0009] In one embodiment, the gas water heater also includes a first two-position three-way valve; the first two-position three-way valve is electrically connected to the controller; the first port of the first two-position three-way valve is connected to the cold water connecting pipe, the second port of the first two-position three-way valve is respectively connected to the return end of the return pipe and the inlet end of the second cold water inlet pipe, and the third port of the first two-position three-way valve is connected to the inlet end of the first cold water inlet pipe.

[0010] In one embodiment, the return water pipe includes a first return water pipe and a second return water pipe; one end of the first return water pipe is connected to the water outlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe, the other end of the first return water pipe and the other end of the second cold water inlet pipe are both connected to one end of the second return water pipe, and the other end of the second return water pipe is connected to the second port of the first two-position three-way valve.

[0011] In one embodiment, a first one-way valve is provided on the first return pipe, and the water flow direction of the first one-way valve is from the water outlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe to the second return pipe; a second one-way valve is provided on the second cold water inlet pipe, and the water flow direction of the second one-way valve is from the end of the second cold water inlet pipe connected to the second return pipe to the water inlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe.

[0012] In one embodiment, the gas water heater further includes a second hot water outlet pipe, which is arranged in parallel with the first hot water outlet pipe between the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger and the hot water joint pipe.

[0013] In one embodiment, the gas water heater further comprises a second two-position three-way valve, which is electrically connected to the controller; the first port of the second two-position three-way valve is connected to the water outlet of the main heat exchanger, the second port of the second two-position three-way valve is connected to the water inlet of the first hot water outlet pipe, and the third port of the second two-position three-way valve is connected to the water inlet of the second hot water outlet pipe. In this way, when the controller controls the first port of the second two-position three-way valve to be connected to the second port and the third port is cut off, the hot water at the water outlet of the main heat exchanger can enter the phase change heat storage module; when the controller controls the first port of the second two-position three-way valve to be connected to the third port and the second port is cut off, the hot water at the water outlet of the main heat exchanger can enter the second hot water outlet pipe, and the second hot water outlet pipe is supplied to the user through the hot water joint pipe.

[0014] In one embodiment, the gas water heater also includes a first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor and a third temperature sensor; the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor and the third temperature sensor are all electrically connected to the controller; the first temperature sensor is arranged on the cold water joint pipe, and is used to obtain the first water temperature information on the cold water joint pipe; the second temperature sensor is arranged at the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger, and is used to obtain the second water temperature information of the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger; the third temperature sensor is arranged at the water outlet end of the phase change heat storage module, and is used to obtain the third water temperature information of the water outlet end of the phase change heat storage module.

[0015] In one embodiment, the phase change heat storage module includes: a shell assembly, a heat exchange assembly and a phase change material; the heat exchange assembly includes a heat exchange tube, a water inlet connecting pipe and a water outlet connecting pipe, the two ends of the heat exchange tube are respectively connected to the water inlet connecting pipe and the water outlet connecting pipe, the heat exchange tube is arranged inside the shell assembly, the water inlet connecting pipe and the water outlet connecting pipe both pass through the shell assembly and extend to the outside of the shell assembly, the water inlet connecting pipe and the water outlet connecting pipe are arranged in series on the first hot water outlet pipe; the phase change material is filled inside the shell assembly and is located outside the heat exchange tube.

[0016] In one embodiment, the shell assembly includes an inner shell, an outer shell and a thermal insulation material; the inner shell is sleeved inside the outer shell, and the phase change material is filled inside the inner shell; the thermal insulation material is filled in the space area between the inner shell and the outer shell; the heat exchange assembly also includes a water storage tank, which is arranged in series between the water outlet connecting pipe and the heat exchange pipe.

[0017] In one embodiment, the main unit also includes a fan and a burner; the fan and the burner are electrically connected to the controller; the gas water heater also includes a casing and a control panel located on the casing, the main unit is arranged inside the casing, and the control panel is electrically connected to the controller.

[0018] The above second technical problem is solved by the following technical solution:

[0019] A working method of a gas water heater, comprising the following steps: when the hot water outlet temperature set by the user is not higher than the phase change temperature point of the phase change heat storage module, and the actual temperature of the phase change material of the phase change heat storage module is not lower than the first set temperature, the cold water of the cold water joint pipe enters the first hot water outlet pipe through the second cold water inlet pipe, and the cold water is heated by the phase change heat storage module and then discharged to the outside through the hot water joint pipe to supply the water point; when the hot water outlet temperature set by the user is higher than the phase change temperature point of the phase change heat storage module, or the actual temperature of the phase change material of the phase change heat storage module is lower than the first set temperature, the cold water of the cold water joint pipe enters the main heat exchanger through the first cold water inlet pipe, and the burner is turned on at the same time, and the cold water is heated by the main heat exchanger and then discharged to the outside through the hot water joint pipe to supply the water point.

[0020] The working method of the gas water heater of the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the background technology:

[0021] The working method of the above-mentioned gas water heater realizes low-temperature temperature rise through the phase change heat storage module, and discharges the hot water with low-temperature temperature rise to the user through the hot water joint pipe. At this time, the cold water does not need to flow through the main heat exchanger, and there is no need to turn on the burner. In this heating mode, the water temperature is heated by the heat energy stored in the phase change heat storage module, which realizes silent heating, eliminates combustion noise, and improves the user experience; it can effectively achieve a smaller temperature rise and control the outlet water temperature within a preset range.

[0022] In one embodiment, the working method of the gas water heater also includes the following steps: when the actual temperature of the phase change material of the phase change heat storage module is lower than the first preset temperature, the water pump is controlled to work, and the burner is controlled to work, and under the power of the water pump, the water in the phase change heat storage module enters the main heat exchanger through the return pipe and the first cold water inlet pipe, the main heat exchanger is heated and the heated hot water enters the phase change heat storage module. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a gas water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The state diagram of the gas water heater shown is operating in the phase change heat storage module heating and temperature raising mode;

[0027] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The state diagram of the gas water heater shown is working in the burner heating and temperature raising mode;

[0028] Figure 4 for Figure 1 The state diagram of the gas water heater shown is operating in the phase change thermal storage module energy storage or antifreeze mode;

[0029] Figure 5 A schematic structural diagram of a gas water heater according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 6 for Figure 5 The state diagram of the gas water heater shown is operating in the phase change heat storage module heating and temperature raising mode;

[0031] Figure 7 for Figure 5 The state diagram of the gas water heater shown is working in the burner heating and temperature raising mode;

[0032] Figure 8 for Figure 5 The state diagram of the gas water heater shown is operating in the phase change thermal storage module energy storage or antifreeze mode;

[0033] Fig. 9 The figure is a schematic structural diagram of a phase change heat storage module of a gas water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Reference numerals:

[0035] 10. Host; 11. Main heat exchanger; 12. Cold water joint pipe; 13. First cold water inlet pipe; 14. Second cold water inlet pipe; 15. Return pipe; 151. First return pipe; 152. Second return pipe; 16. First hot water outlet pipe; 17. Hot water joint pipe; 18. Second hot water outlet pipe; 191. Fan; 192. Burner; 193. Gas joint pipe; 20. Phase change heat storage module; 21. Shell assembly; 211. Inner shell; 212. Outer shell Shell; 213, thermal insulation material; 22, heat exchange component; 221, heat exchange tube; 222, water inlet connecting pipe; 223, water outlet connecting pipe; 224, water storage tank; 23, phase change material; 30, water pump; 40, first two-position three-way valve; a, first port; b, second port; c, third port; Z1, first one-way valve; Z2, second one-way valve; Z3, third one-way valve; 50, second two-position three-way valve; d, first port; e, second port; f, third port. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] In order to make the above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention more obvious and easy to understand, the specific embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the following description, many specific details are set forth to facilitate a full understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar improvements without violating the connotation of the present invention, so the present invention is not limited by the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0037] See also Figure 1 or Figure 5 , Figure 1 The structure diagram of a gas water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 5 A schematic structural diagram of a gas water heater according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 5 Relative to Figure 1A second hot water outlet pipe 18 and a second two-position three-way valve 50 are added. A gas water heater provided in one embodiment of the present invention comprises a main unit 10, a phase change heat storage module 20, a water pump 30 and a controller (not shown in the figure). The main unit 10 comprises a main heat exchanger 11, a cold water joint pipe 12, a first cold water inlet pipe 13, a second cold water inlet pipe 14, a return pipe 15, a first hot water outlet pipe 16 and a hot water joint pipe 17. The cold water joint pipe 12 is connected to the first cold water inlet pipe 13, the first cold water inlet pipe 13 is connected to the water inlet end of the main heat exchanger 11, the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger 11 is connected to the water inlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe 16, and the water outlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe 16 is connected to the hot water joint pipe 17. One end of the return pipe 15 is connected to the water outlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe 16, and the other end of the return pipe 15 is connected to the cold water joint pipe 12. One end of the second cold water inlet pipe 14 is connected to the water inlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe 16, and the other end of the second cold water inlet pipe 14 is connected to the cold water joint pipe 12. The phase change heat storage module 20 is arranged in series on the first hot water outlet pipe 16. The water pump 30 is arranged in series on the first cold water inlet pipe 13 or the return pipe 15, and the controller is electrically connected to the water pump 30 and the host 10 respectively.

[0038] For the above gas water heaters, please refer to Figure 2 or Figure 6 , Figure 2 and Figure 6 The diagrams of the water flow direction in the heating and temperature raising mode of the phase change heat storage module 20 are shown. When the hot water outlet temperature set by the user is relatively low, such as 32°C, 35°C, etc., the cold water joint pipe 12 transports the cold water to the second cold water inlet pipe 14, and the second cold water inlet pipe 14 transports the cold water to the first hot water outlet pipe 16, and flows through the phase change heat storage module 20 set on the first hot water outlet pipe 16. The phase change heat storage module 20 heats the incoming cold water to the required temperature, that is, the low-temperature temperature rise is achieved through the phase change heat storage module 20, and the hot water with low-temperature temperature rise is discharged to the user through the hot water joint pipe 17. At this time, the cold water does not need to flow through the main heat exchanger 11, and the burner 192 does not need to be turned on. In this heating mode, the water temperature is heated by the heat energy stored in the phase change heat storage module 20, which realizes silent heating, eliminates combustion noise, and improves the user experience.

[0039] See also Figure 3 or Figure 7 , Figure 3 and Figure 7The diagrams of the water flow direction when the burner 192 is working in the heating and temperature raising mode are shown. When the hot water outlet temperature set by the user is relatively high, such as 42°C, 45°C, etc., the cold water joint pipe 12 delivers the cold water to the first cold water inlet pipe 13, and the first cold water inlet pipe 13 delivers the cold water to the main heat exchanger 11. The main heat exchanger 11 can quickly raise the cold water to the preset temperature and then output it to the outside, and provide it to the user through the hot water joint pipe 17. In this way, it can effectively achieve a smaller temperature rise and control the water temperature within the preset range.

[0040] See also Figure 4 or Figure 8 , Figure 4 and Figure 8 The diagrams of the water flow direction when the phase change heat storage module 20 is in the energy storage or antifreeze mode are shown. As an example, the actual temperature of the phase change material 23 of the phase change heat storage module 20 is obtained. When it is determined that the actual temperature of the phase change material 23 is lower than the first preset temperature, the controller controls the water pump 30 to work, and controls the burner 192 to work. Under the power of the water pump 30, the water in the phase change heat storage module 20 enters the main heat exchanger 11 through the return pipe and the first cold water inlet pipe 13. The main heat exchanger 11 is heated and heated, and the heated hot water enters the phase change heat storage module 20. The phase change material 23 of the phase change heat storage module 20 can absorb the heat in the hot water to store thermal energy. In addition, in this mode, since the hot water circulates in the phase change heat storage module 20, the return pipe, the first cold water inlet pipe 13 and the main heat exchanger 11, it can store energy for the phase change heat storage module 20 and also play an antifreeze role.

[0041] See also Figure 4 or Figure 8As an example, when the ambient temperature is low, such as in a cold winter, when the antifreeze mode needs to be turned on, when it is determined that the temperature of the phase change material 23 is higher than the second preset temperature, it indicates that the heat in the phase change heat storage module 20 is sufficient, and the circulating water can be heated to the set antifreeze temperature by relying on the heating capacity of the phase change material 23, that is, the water pump 30 is controlled by the controller to work, and under the power of the water pump 30, the water in the phase change heat storage module 20 circulates in the phase change heat storage module 20, the return pipe, the first cold water inlet pipe 13 and the main heat exchanger 11, and the heat stored in the phase change heat storage module 20 is used to heat the circulating water to the third preset temperature. In this antifreeze mode, the water pump 30 can operate at a lower power to reduce the flow of the circulating water, and the flow of the circulating water is not enough to start the burner 192 of the gas heating module, thereby reducing the combustion noise. Of course, when it is judged that the temperature of the phase change material 23 is lower than the second preset temperature, it indicates that the heat in the phase change heat storage module 20 is insufficient, that is, the water pump 30 and the burner 192 are controlled by the controller to work. Under the power of the water pump 30, the water in the phase change heat storage module 20 enters the main heat exchanger 11 through the return pipe and the first cold water inlet pipe 13. The main heat exchanger 11 is heated and heated. The heated hot water plays an antifreeze role. On the other hand, it enters the interior of the phase change heat storage module 20. The phase change material 23 of the phase change heat storage module 20 can absorb the heat in the hot water to store thermal energy. It should be noted that the second preset temperature can be the same as the above-mentioned first preset temperature, or a deviation of 1°C to 5°C can be allowed, which is set according to actual conditions. In addition, the third preset temperature is greater than the second preset temperature.

[0042] See also Figure 1In one embodiment, the gas water heater further comprises a first two-position three-way valve 40. The first two-position three-way valve 40 is electrically connected to the controller. A first port a of the first two-position three-way valve 40 is connected to the cold water joint pipe 12, a second port b of the first two-position three-way valve 40 is respectively connected to the return end of the return pipe and the inlet end of the second cold water inlet pipe 14, and a third port c of the first two-position three-way valve 40 is connected to the inlet end of the first cold water inlet pipe 13. In this way, the controller controls the first two-position three-way valve 40 to work. According to actual working needs, the first port a of the first two-position three-way valve 40 can be connected to the third port c, and the second port b is cut off. At this time, the cold water joint pipe 12 is connected to the first cold water inlet pipe 13, so that cold water can be sent to the main heat exchanger 11 through the cold water joint pipe 12 and the first cold water inlet pipe 13, and at the same time, cold water can be prevented from entering the return water pipeline 15 and the second cold water inlet pipe 14; the first port a of the first two-position three-way valve 40 can also be connected to the second port b, and the third port c is cut off. At this time, the cold water joint pipe 12 is connected to the second cold water inlet pipe 14, so that cold water can be sent to the second cold water return pipe 15 through the cold water joint pipe 12. The water inlet pipe 14 is sent into the phase change heat storage module 20, and after being heated by the phase change heat storage module 20, hot water is provided to the user, while preventing cold water from entering the first cold water inlet pipe 13; the second port b of the first two-position three-way valve 40 can also be connected to the third port c, and the first port a is cut off. At this time, the cold water of the cold water joint pipe 12 will neither enter the first cold water inlet pipe 13 nor the second cold water inlet pipe 14. Under the drive of the water pump 30, the cold water of the phase change heat storage module 20 and part of the water in the pipeline connected to the hot water joint pipe 17 enter the first cold water inlet pipe 13 and the main heat exchanger 11 through the return pipe 15, and then discharged to the phase change heat storage module 20 through the main heat exchanger 11. It can be seen that under the control of the first two-position three-way valve 40 by the controller, each working mode can be smoothly carried out.

[0043] As an optional solution, the gas water heater may also not be provided with the first two-position three-way valve 40. The first two-position three-way valve 40 is replaced by a first electrically-controlled valve, a second electrically-controlled valve and a third electrically-controlled valve, and for example, the first electrically-controlled valve is provided on the cold water connecting pipe 12 to control the flow of the cold water connecting pipe 12 or block the water source, and for example, the second electrically-controlled valve is provided on the parallel pipe of the return end of the return pipe and the inlet end of the second cold water inlet pipe 14 to control whether the return end of the return pipe and the inlet end of the second cold water inlet pipe 14 are connected to the cold water connecting pipe 12, and for example, the third electrically-controlled valve is provided on the first cold water inlet pipe 13 to control the flow of the first cold water inlet pipe 13 or block the water source.

[0044] See also Figure 1In one embodiment, the return pipe 15 includes a first return pipe 151 and a second return pipe 152. One end of the first return pipe 151 is connected to the outlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe 16, and the other end of the first return pipe 151 and the other end of the second cold water inlet pipe 14 are both connected to one end of the second return pipe 152, and the other end of the second return pipe 152 is connected to the second port b of the first two-position three-way valve 40. It can be seen that the other end of the second cold water inlet pipe 14 does not need to be directly connected to the second port b of the first two-position three-way valve 40, but is connected to the second port b of the first two-position three-way valve 40 through the second return pipe 152, that is, it can also be indirectly connected to the second port b of the first two-position three-way valve 40. Of course, the other end of the second cold water inlet pipe 14 can also be directly connected to the second port b of the first two-position three-way valve 40, which is not limited here.

[0045] See also Figure 1 In one embodiment, a first check valve Z1 is provided on the first water return pipe 151, and the water flow direction of the first check valve Z1 is from the outlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe 16 to the second water return pipe 152. A second check valve Z2 is provided on the second cold water inlet pipe 14, and the water flow direction of the second check valve Z2 is from the end of the second cold water inlet pipe 14 connected to the second water return pipe 152 to the inlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe 16. In this way, in the mode of using the phase change heat storage module 20 to provide hot water to users, after the cold water connecting pipe 12 is connected to the second return pipe 152, the cold water in the second return pipe 152 enters the phase change heat storage module 20 through the second cold water inlet pipe 14. Under the water flow blocking of the first one-way valve Z1, the cold water in the second return pipe 152 can be prevented from flowing to the hot water connecting pipe 17 through the first return pipe 151; in addition, in the antifreeze mode or the energy storage mode for the phase change heat storage module 20, after the second return pipe 152 is connected to the first cold water inlet pipe 13, the water in the phase change heat storage module 20 can flow to the first cold water inlet pipe 13 through the first return pipe 151 and the second return pipe 152 and enter the main heat exchanger 11. Under the action of the second one-way valve Z2, the water in the main heat exchanger 11 will not flow to the second return pipe 152 through the second cold water inlet pipe 14.

[0046] See also Figure 5 As an optional solution, a third one-way valve Z3 is provided at the water outlet of the main heat exchanger 11. The water flow direction of the third one-way valve Z3 is from the water outlet of the main heat exchanger 11 to the hot water joint pipe 17. In this way, under the action of the third one-way valve Z3, it is possible to prevent water from flowing back through the water outlet of the main heat exchanger 11 and into the interior of the main heat exchanger 11. Of course, the third one-way valve Z3 can also be omitted, which is not limited here.

[0047] It should be noted that, as an optional solution, the first one-way valve Z1 on the first water return pipe 151 can be replaced by, for example, a fourth electrically controlled valve, and the controller can control the fourth electrically controlled valve to be opened or closed. Similarly, the second one-way valve Z2 on the second water return pipe 152 can be replaced by, for example, a fifth electrically controlled valve, and the controller can control the fifth electrically controlled valve to be opened or closed.

[0048] See also Figure 5 In one embodiment, the gas water heater further comprises a second hot water outlet pipe 18. The second hot water outlet pipe 18 is arranged in parallel with the first hot water outlet pipe 16 between the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger 11 and the hot water joint pipe 17.

[0049] See also Figure 5 In one embodiment, the gas water heater further includes a second two-position three-way valve 50. The second two-position three-way valve 50 is electrically connected to the controller. The first port d of the second two-position three-way valve 50 is connected to the water outlet of the main heat exchanger 11, the second port e of the second two-position three-way valve 50 is connected to the water inlet of the first hot water outlet pipe 16, and the third port f of the second two-position three-way valve 50 is connected to the water inlet of the second hot water outlet pipe 18. In this way, when the controller controls the first port d of the second two-position three-way valve 50 to be connected to the second port e and the third port f is cut off, the hot water at the water outlet of the main heat exchanger 11 can enter the phase change heat storage module 20; when the controller controls the first port d of the second two-position three-way valve 50 to be connected to the third port f and the second port e is cut off, the hot water at the water outlet of the main heat exchanger 11 can enter the second hot water outlet pipe 18, and is supplied to the user by the second hot water outlet pipe 18 through the hot water joint pipe 17.

[0050] It should be noted that, similar to the first two-position three-way valve 40, the second two-position three-way valve 50 is also not set, but is replaced by the sixth electrically controlled valve and the seventh electrically controlled valve, and for example, the sixth electrically controlled valve is set on the first hot water outlet pipe 16, and the seventh electrically controlled valve is set on the second hot water outlet pipe 18. When the hot water of the main heat exchanger 11 needs to be passed into the first hot water outlet pipe 16, the sixth electrically controlled valve is opened and the seventh electrically controlled valve is closed; when the hot water of the main heat exchanger 11 needs to be passed into the second hot water outlet pipe 18, the sixth electrically controlled valve is closed and the seventh electrically controlled valve is opened.

[0051] In one embodiment, the gas water heater further includes a first temperature sensor (not shown in the figure), a second temperature sensor (not shown in the figure) and a third temperature sensor (not shown in the figure). The first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor and the third temperature sensor are all electrically connected to the controller. The first temperature sensor is arranged on the cold water joint pipe 12, and is used to obtain the first water temperature information on the cold water joint pipe 12. The second temperature sensor is arranged at the water outlet of the main heat exchanger 11, and is used to obtain the second water temperature information of the water outlet of the main heat exchanger 11. The third temperature sensor is arranged at the water outlet of the phase change heat storage module 20, and is used to obtain the third water temperature information of the water outlet of the phase change heat storage module 20.

[0052] See also Fig. 9 , Fig. 9 The schematic diagram of the structure of the phase change heat storage module 20 of the gas water heater of one embodiment of the present invention is shown. In one embodiment, the phase change heat storage module 20 includes a shell assembly 21, a heat exchange assembly 22 and a phase change material 23. The heat exchange assembly 22 includes a heat exchange tube 221, a water inlet connection pipe 222 and a water outlet connection pipe 223. The two ends of the heat exchange tube 221 are respectively connected to the water inlet connection pipe 222 and the water outlet connection pipe 223. The heat exchange tube 221 is arranged inside the shell assembly 21, and the water inlet connection pipe 222 and the water outlet connection pipe 223 both penetrate the shell assembly 21 and extend to the outside of the shell assembly 21. The water inlet connection pipe 222 and the water outlet connection pipe 223 are arranged in series on the first hot water outlet pipe 16. The phase change material 23 is filled inside the shell assembly 21 and is located outside the heat exchange tube 221.

[0053] See also Fig. 9 In one embodiment, the shell assembly 21 includes an inner shell 211, an outer shell 212 and a heat-insulating material 213. The inner shell 211 is sleeved inside the outer shell 212, and the phase change material 23 is filled inside the inner shell 211; the heat-insulating material 213 is filled in the space between the inner shell 211 and the outer shell 212. The heat exchange assembly 22 also includes a water storage tank 224. The water storage tank 224 is arranged in series between the water outlet connection pipe 223 and the heat exchange pipe 221.

[0054] See also Figure 5 In one embodiment, the host 10 further includes a fan 191 and a burner 192. The fan 191 and the burner 192 are both electrically connected to the controller. The burner 192 is connected to a gas joint pipe 193 through a connecting pipe, and the gas joint pipe 193 is used to communicate with a gas source. The gas source supplies gas to the burner 192 through the gas joint pipe 193 and the connecting pipe. When the burner 192 is working, the high-temperature flue gas is used to heat the main heat exchanger 11, thereby raising the water entering the main heat exchanger 11 and raising the water temperature to a preset range. In addition, when the fan 191 is working, the flue gas can be drawn out and discharged.

[0055] Furthermore, the gas water heater further comprises a casing (not shown in the figure) and a control panel (not shown in the figure) on the casing, the main unit 10 is arranged inside the casing, and the control panel is electrically connected to the controller. Thus, through the control panel, the user can conveniently set the hot water outlet temperature, and can also perform operations such as turning on and off the machine, selecting a working mode, etc.

[0056] Furthermore, the heat-insulating material 213 is a foaming material. The heat-insulating material 213 is wrapped around the outside of the inner shell 211. In this way, during the manufacturing process, after the inner shell 211 is set inside the outer shell 212, a foaming agent is filled into the area between the inner shell 211 and the outer shell 212. The foaming agent is, for example, cyclopentane, polyurethane, etc. The foaming agent will solidify to form a foaming material after being injected for a period of time. The foaming material not only plays a heat-insulating role but also enhances the bonding stability between the inner shell 211 and the outer shell 212. In addition, when the heat-insulating material 213 is wrapped around the outside of the inner shell 211, the heat-insulating effect on the inner shell 211 is better.

[0057] It should be noted that the "water inlet connecting pipe 222 and the water outlet connecting pipe 223" can be "a part of the heat exchange tube 221", that is, the "water inlet connecting pipe 222 and the water outlet connecting pipe 223" and the "other parts of the heat exchange tube 221" can be manufactured as one piece; it can also be an independent component separable from the "other parts of the heat exchange tube 221", that is, the "water inlet connecting pipe 222 and the water outlet connecting pipe 223" can be manufactured independently and then combined with the "other parts of the heat exchange tube 221" into a whole.

[0058] In one embodiment, the heat exchange tube 221 is an S-shaped tube, and heat exchange fins are provided on the outer wall of the heat exchange tube 221. In this way, the S-shaped tube can make full use of the space of the inner shell 211, extend the heat exchange path as much as possible, and extend the heating time of the cold water in the process of passing through the heat exchange tube 221, thereby ensuring the heat exchange effect. In addition, the heat exchange fins can improve the heat exchange effect between the heat exchange tube 221 and the phase change material 23.

[0059] See also Figure 1 or Figure 5 In one embodiment, a method for operating a gas water heater using any of the above embodiments comprises the following steps:

[0060] See also Figure 2 or Figure 6When the hot water outlet temperature set by the user is not higher than the phase change temperature point of the phase change heat storage module 20, and the actual temperature of the phase change material 23 of the phase change heat storage module 20 is not lower than the first set temperature, the phase change heat storage module 20 enters the mode of heating and heating the cold water. Specifically, the first port a of the first two-position three-way valve 40 is connected to the second port b, and the third port c is cut off. The cold water of the cold water joint pipe 12 enters the first hot water outlet pipe 16 through the first port a and the second port b of the first two-position three-way valve 40 and the second cold water inlet pipe 14, and enters the phase change heat storage module 20. After the cold water is heated and heated by the phase change heat storage module 20, it is discharged to the outside through the hot water joint pipe 17 to supply the water use point.

[0061] It should be noted that the phase change temperature point of the phase change material 23 of the phase change heat storage module 20 is, for example, 40°C, 45°C, 50°C, 55°C, 60°C, 65°C, etc., which is not limited here. The phase change material 23 of the phase change heat storage module 20 is solid when the temperature is lower than the phase change temperature point, and becomes liquid when the temperature is higher than the phase change temperature point.

[0062] See also Figure 3 or Figure 7 When the hot water outlet temperature set by the user is higher than the phase change temperature point of the phase change heat storage module 20, or the actual temperature of the phase change material 23 of the phase change heat storage module 20 is lower than the first set temperature, the burner 192 enters the mode of heating the cold water. Specifically, the first port a of the first two-position three-way valve 40 is connected to the third port c, and the second port b is cut off, so that the cold water of the cold water joint pipe 12 enters the main heat exchanger 11 through the first cold water inlet pipe 13, and the burner 192 is turned on at the same time. After the cold water is heated by the main heat exchanger 11, it is discharged to the outside through the hot water joint pipe 17 to supply the water point. Among them, refer to Figure 3 The hot water at the outlet of the main heat exchanger 11 enters the hot water joint pipe 17 through the first hot water outlet pipe 16 and is discharged to the outside to supply users. Figure 7 The hot water at the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger 11 can enter the hot water connecting pipe 17 through the first hot water outlet pipe 16 and be discharged to the outside to supply the user, and can also enter the hot water connecting pipe 17 through the second hot water outlet pipe 18 and be discharged to the outside to supply the user. The specific flow can be determined according to the second two-position three-way valve 50.

[0063] The working method of the above-mentioned gas water heater realizes low-temperature temperature rise through the phase change heat storage module 20, and discharges the hot water with low-temperature temperature rise through the hot water joint pipe 17 to provide to the user. At this time, the cold water does not need to flow through the main heat exchanger 11, and there is no need to turn on the burner 192. In this heating mode, the water temperature is heated by the heat energy stored in the phase change heat storage module 20, which realizes silent heating, eliminates combustion noise, and improves the user experience; it can effectively achieve a smaller temperature rise and control the outlet water temperature within a preset range.

[0064] Furthermore, the working method of the gas water heater also includes the following steps: Figure 4 or Figure 8 When the actual temperature of the phase change material 23 of the phase change heat storage module 20 is lower than the first preset temperature, the phase change heat storage module 20 enters the energy storage working mode. Specifically, the second port b of the first two-position three-way valve 40 is connected to the third port c, and the first port a is cut off. The water pump 30 is controlled to work, and the burner 192 is controlled to work. Under the power of the water pump 30, the water in the phase change heat storage module 20 enters the main heat exchanger 11 through the return pipe and the first cold water inlet pipe 13. The main heat exchanger 11 is heated and heated, and the heated hot water enters the interior of the phase change heat storage module 20.

[0065] It should be noted that the actual temperature of the phase change material 23 of the phase change heat storage module 20 is obtained by directly testing, for example, a temperature sensor. Of course, it can also be calculated based on the water temperature at the water inlet end of the phase change heat storage module 20 and the water temperature at the water outlet end of the phase change heat storage module 20, which is not limited here.

[0066] Furthermore, the working method of the gas water heater also includes an antifreeze working mode. When entering the antifreeze working mode, when it is determined that the temperature of the phase change material 23 is higher than the second preset temperature, specifically, the second port b of the first two-position three-way valve 40 is connected to the third port c, and the first port a is cut off, and the water pump 30 is controlled to work. Under the power of the water pump 30, the water in the phase change heat storage module 20 enters the main heat exchanger 11 through the return pipe and the first cold water inlet pipe 13, and the main heat exchanger 11 is heated and heated. The heated hot water enters the phase change heat storage module 20. Under the power of the water pump 30, the water in the phase change heat storage module 20 circulates in the phase change heat storage module 20, the return pipe, the first cold water inlet pipe 13 and the main heat exchanger 11, and the circulating water is heated to the third preset temperature using the heat stored in the phase change heat storage module 20.

[0067] When it is determined that the temperature of the phase change material 23 is lower than the second preset temperature, specifically, the second port b of the first two-position three-way valve 40 is connected to the third port c, and the first port a is cut off, the water pump 30 is controlled to work, and the burner 192 is controlled to work. Under the power of the water pump 30, the water in the phase change heat storage module 20 enters the main heat exchanger 11 through the return pipe and the first cold water inlet pipe 13, and the main heat exchanger 11 is heated and heated. The heated hot water has an antifreeze effect, and on the other hand, it enters the interior of the phase change heat storage module 20, and the phase change material 23 of the phase change heat storage module 20 can absorb the heat in the hot water to store thermal energy.

[0068] It should be noted that, in the description of one element being connected to another element, or one element being mounted on another element, it is understood that the two elements may be connected by mounting parts such as bolts, screws, pins, rivets, etc., or may be fixedly connected by clamping, welding or integrated molding. Among them, the integrated molding method may be extrusion, casting, press fitting, injection molding and other processes.

[0069] The technical features of the above embodiments may be combined arbitrarily. 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.

[0070] The above embodiments only express several implementation methods of the present invention, and the descriptions thereof are relatively specific and detailed, but they cannot be understood as limiting the scope of the invention patent. It should be pointed out that, for those of ordinary skill in the art, several variations and improvements can be made without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these all belong to the protection scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of the patent of the present invention shall be subject to the attached claims.

[0071] 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 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, and do not indicate or imply that the referred device or element must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0072] In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Therefore, the features defined as "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of the features. In the description of the present invention, the meaning of "plurality" is at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise clearly and specifically defined.

[0073] In the present invention, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installed", "connected", "connected", "fixed" and the like should be understood in a broad sense, for example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, it can be the internal connection of two elements or the interaction relationship between two elements, unless otherwise clearly defined. For ordinary technicians in this field, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0074] In the present invention, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, a first feature being "above" or "below" a second feature may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Moreover, a first feature being "above", "above" or "above" a second feature may mean that the first feature is directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is higher in level than the second feature. A first feature being "below", "below" or "below" a second feature may mean that the first feature is directly below or obliquely below the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is lower in level than the second feature.

[0075] 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 a central 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 a central element at the same time. The terms "vertical", "horizontal", "upper", "lower", "left", "right" and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be the only implementation method.

Claims

1. A gas water heater, characterized in that: The gas water heater comprises: A main unit (10), the main unit (10) comprising a main heat exchanger (11), a cold water joint pipe (12), a first cold water inlet pipe (13), a second cold water inlet pipe (14), a return pipe (15), a first hot water outlet pipe (16) and a hot water joint pipe (17), the cold water joint pipe (12) being connected to the first cold water inlet pipe (13), the first cold water inlet pipe (13) being connected to the water inlet end of the main heat exchanger (11), the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger (11) being connected to the first hot water outlet pipe The first hot water outlet pipe (16) is connected to the water inlet end thereof, the first hot water outlet pipe (16) is connected to the hot water joint pipe (17), one end of the return water pipe (15) is connected to the water outlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe (16), the other end of the return water pipe (15) is connected to the cold water joint pipe (12), one end of the second cold water inlet pipe (14) is connected to the water inlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe (16), and the other end of the second cold water inlet pipe (14) is connected to the cold water joint pipe (12); A phase-change heat storage module (20), the phase-change heat storage module (20) being arranged in series on the first hot water outlet pipe (16); A water pump (30) and a controller, wherein the water pump (30) is arranged in series on the first cold water inlet pipe (13) or the return pipe (15), and the controller is electrically connected to the water pump (30) and the host (10) respectively; a first two-position three-way valve (40), the first two-position three-way valve (40) being electrically connected to the controller; a first port of the first two-position three-way valve (40) being connected to the cold water joint pipe (12), a second port of the first two-position three-way valve (40) being respectively connected to the return end of the return pipe and the inlet end of the second cold water inlet pipe (14), and a third port of the first two-position three-way valve (40) being connected to the inlet end of the first cold water inlet pipe (13); The water return pipe (15) comprises a first water return pipe (151) and a second water return pipe (152); one end of the first water return pipe (151) is connected to the water outlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe (16); the other end of the first water return pipe (151) and the other end of the second cold water inlet pipe (14) are both connected to one end of the second water return pipe (152); the other end of the second water return pipe (152) is connected to the second port of the first two-position three-way valve (40). The first water return pipe (151) is provided with a first one-way valve (Z1), and the water flow direction of the first one-way valve (Z1) is from the water outlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe (16) to the second water return pipe (152); the second cold water inlet pipe (14) is provided with a second one-way valve (Z2), and the water flow direction of the second one-way valve (Z2) is from the end of the second cold water inlet pipe (14) connected to the second water return pipe (152) to the water inlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe (16).

2. The gas water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The gas water heater further comprises a casing and a control panel located on the casing, the main unit (10) is arranged inside the casing, and the control panel is electrically connected to the controller.

3. The gas water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The gas water heater also includes a second hot water outlet pipe (18), which is arranged in parallel with the first hot water outlet pipe (16) between the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger (11) and the hot water joint pipe (17).

4. The gas water heater according to claim 3, characterized in that: The gas water heater further comprises a second two-position three-way valve (50), wherein the second two-position three-way valve (50) is electrically connected to the controller; a first port of the second two-position three-way valve (50) is connected to the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger (11), a second port of the second two-position three-way valve (50) is connected to the water inlet end of the first hot water outlet pipe (16), and a third port of the second two-position three-way valve (50) is connected to the water inlet end of the second hot water outlet pipe (18).

5. The gas water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The gas water heater further comprises a first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor and a third temperature sensor; the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor and the third temperature sensor are all electrically connected to the controller; the first temperature sensor is arranged on the cold water joint pipe (12) for obtaining first water temperature information on the cold water joint pipe (12); the second temperature sensor is arranged at the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger (11) for obtaining second water temperature information at the water outlet end of the main heat exchanger (11); the third temperature sensor is arranged at the water outlet end of the phase change heat storage module (20) for obtaining third water temperature information at the water outlet end of the phase change heat storage module (20).

6. The gas water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The phase change heat storage module (20) comprises: a shell component (21), a heat exchange component (22) and a phase change material (23); the heat exchange component (22) comprises a heat exchange tube (221), a water inlet connecting tube (222) and a water outlet connecting tube (223); the two ends of the heat exchange tube (221) are respectively connected to the water inlet connecting tube (222) and the water outlet connecting tube (223); the heat exchange tube (221) is arranged inside the shell component (21); the water inlet connecting tube (222) and the water outlet connecting tube (223) both penetrate the shell component (21) and extend to the outside of the shell component (21); the water inlet connecting tube (222) and the water outlet connecting tube (223) are arranged in series on the first hot water outlet pipe (16); the phase change material (23) is filled inside the shell component (21) and is located outside the heat exchange tube (221).

7. The gas water heater according to claim 6, characterized in that: The shell assembly (21) comprises an inner shell (211), an outer shell (212) and a heat-insulating material (213); the inner shell (211) is sleeved inside the outer shell (212), and the phase-change material (23) is filled inside the inner shell (211); the heat-insulating material (213) is filled in a space area between the inner shell (211) and the outer shell (212); the heat-exchanging assembly (22) further comprises a water storage tank (224), and the water storage tank (224) is arranged in series between the water outlet connecting pipe (223) and the heat-exchanging pipe (221).

8. The gas water heater according to claim 6, characterized in that: The heat exchange tube (221) is an S-shaped tube, and heat exchange fins are provided on the outer wall of the heat exchange tube (221).

9. The gas water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The main unit (10) further comprises a fan (191) and a burner (192); the fan (191) and the burner (192) are both electrically connected to the controller; the gas water heater further comprises a casing and a control panel located on the casing, the main unit (10) is arranged inside the casing, and the control panel is electrically connected to the controller.

10. An operating method of a gas water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The steps include: When the hot water outlet temperature set by the user is not higher than the phase change temperature point of the phase change heat storage module (20), and the actual temperature of the phase change material (23) of the phase change heat storage module (20) is not lower than the first set temperature, the cold water in the cold water joint pipe (12) enters the second cold water inlet pipe (14) through the second return pipe (152), and enters the first hot water outlet pipe (16) from the second cold water inlet pipe (14), and the cold water is heated by the phase change heat storage module (20) and then discharged to the outside through the hot water joint pipe (17) to supply the water supply point; When the hot water outlet temperature set by the user is higher than the phase change temperature point of the phase change heat storage module (20), or the actual temperature of the phase change material (23) of the phase change heat storage module (20) is lower than the first set temperature, the cold water in the cold water joint pipe (12) enters the main heat exchanger (11) through the first cold water inlet pipe (13), and the burner (192) is turned on at the same time. The cold water is heated by the main heat exchanger (11) and then discharged to the outside through the hot water joint pipe (17) to supply the water supply point.

11. The operating method of the gas water heater according to claim 10, characterized in that: The working method of the gas water heater further comprises the following steps: when the actual temperature of the phase change material (23) of the phase change heat storage module (20) is lower than a first preset temperature, the water pump (30) is controlled to operate, and the burner (192) is controlled to operate, and under the power of the water pump (30), the water in the phase change heat storage module (20) enters the main heat exchanger (11) through the return pipe and the first cold water inlet pipe (13), the main heat exchanger (11) is heated and the heated hot water enters the interior of the phase change heat storage module (20).

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