Water heater

Abstract

The application provides a water heater, comprising: an inner container; a water outlet structure arranged in the inner container, water inlets of the water outlet structure being distributed at intervals from a top wall of the inner container; and a scale inhibition module arranged on the water outlet structure and close to the water inlets of the water outlet structure. The scale inhibition module is arranged in the inner container, the scale inhibition module does not occupy external space, the product is more beautiful, the scale inhibition module is in contact with water in the inner container for a longer time, and the scale inhibition effect is better; the number of holes to be opened in the inner container is reduced, thereby avoiding the risk of water leakage of the water heater, and the installation steps of the scale inhibition module and the inner container are saved; the scale inhibition module is installed in place at the same time when the water outlet structure is installed, assembly is more convenient and rapid, the scale inhibition module has a certain weight-increasing effect on the water outlet structure, inertia of the water outlet structure is increased, the risk of the water outlet structure touching the top wall of the inner container is reduced, thereby ensuring the water outlet efficiency of the water heater and prolonging the service life of the water outlet structure and the inner container, and further ensuring the reliability of the water heater.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water heaters, and more specifically, to a water heater. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, water heaters are common household appliances in people's daily lives, and they are divided into electric water heaters and gas water heaters according to the different heating sources.

[0003] Municipal tap water contains calcium, magnesium, carbonate, and bicarbonate ions. During the heating process in a water heater, these ions react chemically to form limescale. Some of this limescale settles inside the water heater, while some flows out with the water, affecting the bathing experience and potentially clogging the showerhead or water pipes, thus disrupting the water heater's normal operation. Furthermore, when limescale deposits on the heating or heat exchange surfaces, its reduced thermal conductivity lowers the water heater's energy consumption.

[0004] To prevent scale buildup, current technologies often utilize scale-inhibiting agents in scale inhibitors to adsorb tiny ions in the water, thus achieving scale inhibition. However, these scale inhibitors are typically externally mounted on the water heater; more specifically, they are usually installed in the inlet pipe. The disadvantages of this approach are that it occupies a large space, is aesthetically unappealing, and has limited contact time with the water, resulting in a limited scale-inhibiting effect.

[0005] In view of this, the present invention is proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the aforementioned technical problems, the present invention aims to provide a water heater that integrates a scale-inhibiting module onto the water outlet pipe, thereby embedding the scale-inhibiting module within the inner tank. This extends the contact time between the water and the scale-inhibiting module, enhances the scale-inhibiting effect, and simultaneously improves the product's appearance.

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the basic concept of the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0008] The present invention provides a water heater, comprising: an inner tank; a water outlet structure disposed within the inner tank, wherein the water inlet of the water outlet structure is distributed at intervals with respect to the top wall of the inner tank; and a scale inhibition module disposed on the water outlet structure and close to the water inlet of the water outlet structure.

[0009] In the above technical solution, the water outlet structure includes: a water outlet pipe; a protective sleeve, which is fitted onto the water outlet pipe, with the end of the protective sleeve protruding from the end of the water outlet pipe, and the end of the protective sleeve defining the water inlet of the water outlet structure.

[0010] In the above technical solution, the scale inhibition module is a hollow ring and is sleeved on the outside of the protective sleeve, and the end of the protective sleeve protrudes from the scale inhibition module;

[0011] Preferably, the water heater includes a heating element, and a portion of the heating element is configured as the water outlet structure;

[0012] More preferably, the inner ring of the scale inhibitor module defines an annular gap between the inner ring and the outlet pipe, and some of the scale inhibitor modules are spaced apart from the protective sleeve, so that the two ends of the annular gap are connected to the inner tank.

[0013] In any of the above technical solutions, the protective sleeve or the water outlet pipe is provided with a first connecting structure, and the scale inhibition module is provided with a second connecting structure. The first connecting structure is connected to the second connecting structure so that the scale inhibition module is installed on the protective sleeve.

[0014] In the above technical solution, the first connecting structure is a locking block. The inner annular surface of the scale-inhibiting module has interconnected clearance grooves and locking grooves. The locking grooves extend circumferentially along the scale-inhibiting module, and the clearance grooves extend axially along the scale-inhibiting module. The water outlet pipe and the protective sleeve extend into the hollow area of ​​the scale-inhibiting module from bottom to top. The locking block extends into the scale-inhibiting module along the clearance grooves, and the locking block is locked into the locking grooves by rotating the scale-inhibiting module. The locking grooves form the second connecting structure.

[0015] In the above technical solution, the locking block is disposed on the outer side wall of the water outlet pipe, and the side wall of the protective sleeve forms a limiting groove from the bottom to the middle area. A part of the locking block extends into the limiting groove and is limited and engaged with the limiting groove, while another part protrudes from the side wall surface of the protective sleeve, and the other part is locked into the locking groove.

[0016] In any of the above technical solutions, the scale inhibition module includes: a shell, including an inner shell and an outer shell, the outer shell being sleeved on the outside of the inner shell and defining a cavity for accommodating scale inhibition material between the outer shell and the inner shell; a cover, covering the cavity, the cover including an annular cover body and a connecting tube body disposed on the annular cover body, the connecting tube body being sleeved outside the protective sleeve, and the connecting tube body having the snap-fit ​​groove formed on it.

[0017] In any of the above technical solutions, a portion of the inner shell is recessed toward the outer shell to form a partial clearance groove, and another portion of the clearance groove is formed on the connecting pipe.

[0018] In any of the above technical solutions, the inner liner includes a first inner liner and a second inner liner that are independent of each other. The first inner liner and the second inner liner are respectively provided with their own water inlet structure, water outlet structure and heating pipe. The water outlet structure of the first inner liner and the water inlet structure of the second inner liner are connected through a connecting pipe.

[0019] In any of the above technical solutions, the scale-inhibiting module is provided in the first inner liner and the second inner liner respectively.

[0020] In this invention, firstly, the scale-inhibiting module is located inside the inner tank. The scale-inhibiting material within the module releases scale-inhibiting agents into the inner tank after immersion in water, preventing scale buildup on the inner tank, heating element, and other components. Compared to existing designs where the scale-inhibiting module is located externally, this module does not occupy external space, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing product. Furthermore, the module has a longer contact time with the water in the inner tank, leading to better scale inhibition. Secondly, by integrating the scale-inhibiting module into the water outlet structure, the process of creating additional installation holes in the inner tank is eliminated, reducing the number of holes required and significantly mitigating the risk of water heater leaks. This improves product safety and lifespan. Additionally, integrating the scale-inhibiting module into the water outlet structure eliminates the need for additional installation holes. The scale inhibitor module is installed simultaneously with the water outlet structure, making assembly more convenient and faster. On the other hand, because the water outlet structure is close to the top wall of the inner tank, its end can easily touch the top wall due to the boiling or flowing of hot water. This can easily block the water inlet of the water outlet structure, affecting the water output of the water heater, and also causing damage to both the water outlet structure and the top wall of the inner tank. The scale inhibitor module of this invention adds weight to the water outlet structure, increasing its inertia and reducing the risk of it touching the top wall of the inner tank. This ensures the water output efficiency of the water heater and extends the service life of the water outlet structure and the inner tank, thereby guaranteeing the reliability of the water heater.

[0021] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The accompanying drawings, as part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of the invention are used to explain the invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative effort. In the drawings:

[0023] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a water heater in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partially enlarged structural diagram of section A in the middle;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the scale inhibition module and the water outlet structure from one perspective in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 4This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the scale inhibition module and the water outlet structure from another perspective in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 5 This is a bottom view of the scale inhibition module and water outlet structure in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a water heater in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 7 This is a side view of a water heater in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A magnified schematic diagram of part B in the middle section.

[0031] In the diagram: 10. Water heater; 100. Inner tank; 100A. First inner tank; 100B. Second inner tank; 110. Top wall; 200. Water outlet structure; 200A. Water outlet structure; 200B. Water outlet structure; 201. Water inlet of the water outlet structure; 210. Water outlet pipe; 211. Clamp; 220. Protective sleeve; 221. Notch; 300. Scale inhibition module; 310. Shell; 311. Inner shell; 312. 313 Outer shell; 320 Receiving cavity; 321 Cover body; 3211 Annular cover body; 3212 Positioning groove; 3213 Positioning structure; 322 Connecting pipe body; 330 Clearance groove; 340 Snap-fit ​​groove; 400B Water inlet structure; 400A Water inlet structure; 500 Connecting pipe; 600 Magnesium rod; 700A Heating tube; 700B Heating tube; 800 Water inlet pipe; 900 Water outlet pipe.

[0032] It should be noted that these accompanying drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0033] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0034] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting this invention.

[0035] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0036] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the embodiments.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, the present invention provides a water heater 10, which includes an inner tank 100, a water outlet structure 200, and a scale inhibition module 300.

[0038] Specifically, the water outlet structure 200 is located inside the inner tank 100. Considering the distribution of hot and cold water inside the inner tank 100 and to ensure the outlet water temperature of the water heater 10, the water outlet structure 200 extends to the upper part of the inner tank 100, and the inlet 201 of the water outlet structure is distributed at intervals with the top wall 110 of the inner tank 100. The scale inhibitor module 300 is located on the water outlet structure 200 and close to the inlet 201 of the water outlet structure.

[0039] In this invention, firstly, the scale-inhibiting module 300 is located inside the inner tank 100. The scale-inhibiting material inside the module 300 releases scale-inhibiting factors into the inner tank 100 after immersion in water, preventing scale buildup on the inner tank 100, heating element 700, and other components. Compared to existing designs where the scale-inhibiting module 300 is located externally, this design does not occupy external space, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing product. Furthermore, the scale-inhibiting module 300 has a longer contact time with the water in the inner tank 100, leading to better scale inhibition. Secondly, by integrating the scale-inhibiting module 300 onto the water outlet structure 200, the process of creating additional mounting holes in the inner tank 100 is eliminated, reducing the number of holes required and significantly mitigating the risk of water leakage from the water heater 10. This improves product safety and lifespan. Additionally, integrating the scale-inhibiting module 300 into the water outlet structure 200 eliminates the need for separate mounting holes in the inner tank 100. The installation steps of the water outlet structure 200 are completed simultaneously with the installation of the scale inhibitor module 300, making assembly more convenient and faster. On the other hand, since the water outlet structure 200 is close to the top wall 110 of the inner tank 100, the end of the water outlet structure 200 can easily touch the top wall 110 of the inner tank 100 due to the boiling or flow of hot water. This can easily block the inlet 201 of the water outlet structure, affecting the water output of the water heater 10, and also making the water outlet structure 200 and the top wall 110 of the inner tank 100 prone to damage. The scale inhibitor module 300 of this invention has a certain weight-adding effect on the water outlet structure 200, increasing the inertia of the water outlet structure 200 and reducing the risk of the water outlet structure 200 touching the top wall 110 of the inner tank 100. This ensures the water output efficiency of the water heater 10 and extends the service life of the water outlet structure 200 and the inner tank 100, thereby ensuring the reliability of the water heater 10.

[0040] Regarding the water outlet structure 200, the water inlet 201 of the water outlet structure is located in the inner tank 100, and the water outlet of the water outlet structure 200 extends out of the inner tank 100 and is adapted to connect with the external water outlet pipe 900 to provide hot water to the user. Furthermore, the water inlet 201 of the water outlet structure is designed to be located in the middle area of ​​the upper part of the inner tank 100.

[0041] More specifically, the water outlet structure 200 is a water outlet pipe 210, which extends into the inner tank 100 from the side. For example, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the water outlet pipe 210 extends into the inner tank 100 from the middle area or the upper middle area of ​​the side of the inner tank 100. The water outlet side of the water outlet pipe 210 bends upward and extends to the vicinity of the top wall 110 of the inner tank 100.

[0042] The portion where the water outlet pipe 210 connects to the scale inhibition module 300 is designed with an angle. This angled design makes it easier to install the scale inhibition module 300 compared to a bent section, reducing the installation difficulty and improving product assembly efficiency. More specifically, as... Figure 1As shown, the water outlet pipe 210 includes at least a straight section, a curved section, and an inclined section, wherein the two ends of the curved section are connected to the straight section and the inclined section.

[0043] In one specific embodiment, the water outlet structure 200 is integrated into the heating tube 700, or in other words, part of the heating tube 700 forms the water outlet structure 200. In this way, the heating tube 700 has both heating and water outlet functions, further reducing the number of openings in the inner tank 100, and the hot water is further heated during the flow of the heating tube 700 to ensure the temperature of the water outlet.

[0044] To further extend the length of the heating tube 700 and ensure uniform heating of the water within the inner tank 100, the heating tube 700 is designed to include at least a first straight section, a downwardly sloping section, a second straight section, a curved section, and an upwardly sloping section from the outlet to the inlet. The two ends of the downwardly sloping section transition to one end of the first straight section and one end of the second straight section, while the two ends of the curved section transition to the other end of the second straight section and one end of the upwardly sloping section. This allows the heating tube 700 to extend downwards into the inner tank 100 from the middle region, then straighten out and extend upwards to the upper region of the inner tank 100. This ensures that the water in the upper, middle, and lower regions of the inner tank 100 can all come into contact with the heating tube 700 and be heated, thus increasing the heating speed.

[0045] In another specific embodiment, the water outlet structure 200 is the water outlet pipe 210, or the water outlet pipe 210 and the heating pipe 700 are two independent components.

[0046] Regarding the scale inhibition module 300, in detail, the scale inhibition module 300 contains scale inhibition material, which adsorbs tiny ions to achieve water cleaning. The scale inhibition material refers to an agent that can disperse sparingly soluble inorganic salts in water, prevent or interfere with the precipitation and scaling of sparingly soluble inorganic salts on metal surfaces, and maintain good heat transfer performance of metal equipment. Examples include carboxylic acid polymer scale inhibitors, sulfonic acid polymer scale inhibitors, phosphorus-containing polymer scale inhibitors, and environmentally friendly scale inhibitors.

[0047] In some embodiments, the water outlet structure 200 includes a water outlet pipe 210 and a protective sleeve 220. Specifically, the protective sleeve 220 is fitted onto the water outlet pipe 210, with one end protruding beyond the end of the water outlet pipe 210, defining an inlet 201 for the water outlet structure. For example, the protective sleeve 220 may be made of plastic. To prevent contact between the metal portion of the water outlet pipe 210 and the inner liner 100, the protective sleeve 220 is fitted onto the inlet of the water outlet pipe 210, thus protecting both the inner liner 100 and the water outlet pipe 210 and further ensuring their safety.

[0048] For example, a protective sleeve 220 can be fitted onto the water outlet pipe 210 with an interference fit. Alternatively, to increase the reliability of the connection between the protective sleeve 220 and the water outlet pipe 210, a threaded connection, snap-fit, or fastener locking connection can be provided between the protective sleeve 220 and the water outlet pipe 210. These will not be listed in detail here.

[0049] More specifically, in order to increase the water intake efficiency of the water outlet structure 200, a portion of the sidewall of the protective sleeve 220 is designed to be recessed from the top to the bottom to form a notch 221. The notch 221 effectively expands the water intake efficiency and ensures the amount and speed of water output.

[0050] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the scale inhibition module 300 is a hollow ring shape and is fitted over the protective sleeve 220, with the end of the protective sleeve 220 protruding from the scale inhibition module 300. This eliminates the need for the outlet pipe 210 to install the scale inhibition module 300, reducing or eliminating the need for machining the installation structure on the outlet pipe 210, thus lowering the product's manufacturing difficulty. Furthermore, the scale inhibition module 300 and the outlet pipe 210 work together to secure the protective sleeve 220, preventing it from loosening and improving the installation reliability of both the protective sleeve 220 and the scale inhibition module 300.

[0051] During installation, the protective sleeve 220 is first placed over the outlet pipe 210, and then the scale inhibitor module 300 is placed over the outlet pipe 210 and the protective sleeve 220 from top to bottom. This is understandable. Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, due to the presence of the protective sleeve 220, the outer wall of the protective sleeve 220 protrudes beyond the outer wall of the water outlet pipe 210. In order for the scale inhibition module 300 to be fitted over the protective sleeve 220, the diameter of the hollow area of ​​the scale inhibition module 300 is compatible with the outer diameter of the protective sleeve 220 and is larger than the outer diameter of the water outlet pipe 210. In this way, an annular gap is defined between the inner ring of the scale inhibition module 300 and the water outlet pipe 210. In the scheme where the water outlet structure 200 is integrated into the heating tube 700, the contact area between the scale inhibition module 300 and the heating tube 700 is effectively reduced, and the contact area between the water and the heating tube 700 is correspondingly increased, thus avoiding the waste of the heating tube 700.

[0052] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 As shown, in order to avoid water stagnation in the annular gap and promote water flow in the annular gap, at least some scale inhibition modules 300 and protective sleeves 220 are designed to be spaced apart, so that the annular gap is open from top to bottom, and hot water can flow from bottom to top.

[0053] Furthermore, in order to promote the dissolution of the scale inhibitor material inside the scale inhibitor module 300, outlets are provided on the outer ring (i.e., the inner shell 311 in the subsequent embodiment) and the outer ring (i.e., the outer shell 312 in the subsequent embodiment) of the scale inhibitor module 300, respectively. In this way, water can flow into the scale inhibitor module 300 from the inside to the outside or from the outside to the inside, thereby effectively promoting the release of scale inhibitors, avoiding the formation of scale, and improving the heating effect and safety of the product.

[0054] In some embodiments, to further ensure the installation reliability of the scale inhibition module 300, a first connecting structure is provided on the protective sleeve 220 or the outlet pipe 210, and a second connecting structure is provided on the scale inhibition module 300. The first connecting structure and the second connecting structure are connected so that the scale inhibition module 300 is installed on the protective sleeve 220. For example, the first connecting structure and the second connecting structure can be threads that fit together, or they can be slots, blocks 211, etc. that fit together, etc., which will not be listed here.

[0055] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first connection structure is a locking block 211. The inner annular surface of the scale inhibitor module 300 has interconnected clearance grooves 330 and locking grooves 340. The locking grooves 340 extend circumferentially along the scale inhibitor module 300, and the clearance grooves 330 extend axially along the scale inhibitor module 300. The water outlet pipe 210 and the protective sleeve 220 extend into the hollow area of ​​the scale inhibitor module 300 from bottom to top. The locking block 211 extends into the scale inhibitor module 300 along the clearance grooves 330, and the locking block 211 is locked into the locking grooves 340 by rotating the scale inhibitor module 300. The locking grooves 340 form the second connection structure.

[0056] In this embodiment, the structure of the locking block 211 is simple and easy to process. The scale inhibition module 300 can be smoothly inserted into the water outlet pipe 210 by the clearance groove 330 and the locking block 211 is locked by the locking groove 340 to realize the installation and fixation of the scale inhibition module 300.

[0057] For example, card block 211 is cylindrical.

[0058] In one specific embodiment, the card block 211 is disposed on the protective sleeve 220. The card block 211 can be an integral structure with the protective sleeve 220 or a separate structure. For example, the card block 211 is detachably disposed on the protective sleeve 220.

[0059] Furthermore, one end of the snap-fit ​​groove 340 is connected to the clearance groove 330, and the other end forms a snap-fit ​​hole. The width of the snap-fit ​​groove 340 from one end to the snap-fit ​​hole is slightly smaller than the height of the snap-fit ​​block 211, and the diameter of the snap-fit ​​hole is adapted to the snap-fit ​​block 211 and slightly larger than the width of the snap-fit ​​groove 340 from one end to the snap-fit ​​hole. In this way, when the snap-fit ​​block 211 is inserted into the snap-fit ​​hole, it is stopped and limited, effectively preventing the snap-fit ​​block 211 from falling off the snap-fit ​​groove 340 and improving the installation stability of the scale inhibition module 300.

[0060] In another embodiment, the locking block 211 is disposed on the outer side wall of the water outlet pipe 210, and the side wall of the protective sleeve 220 forms a limiting groove from the bottom to the middle area. A part of the locking block 211 extends into the limiting groove and is limited and engaged with the limiting groove, while another part protrudes from the side wall surface of the protective sleeve 220, and the other part is engaged into the locking groove 340.

[0061] In this embodiment, a locking block 211 is provided on the water outlet pipe 210. For example, the locking block 211 is integrally formed on the water outlet pipe 210, or the locking block 211 is welded to the water outlet pipe 210. The protective sleeve 220 is provided with a limiting groove. On the one hand, the limiting groove ensures that the end of the protective sleeve 220 protrudes beyond the end of the water outlet pipe 210, avoiding over-installation of the protective sleeve 220 and ensuring the protective function of the protective sleeve 220. It also prevents the end of the water outlet pipe 210 from directly touching the inner tank 100. On the other hand, the locking block 211 can be used for both locking engagement with the protective sleeve 220 and the scale inhibition module 300. This improves the installation reliability of the protective sleeve 220 and the scale inhibition module 300, while also simplifying the structure and making assembly more convenient.

[0062] Furthermore, referring to the structural form of the clearance groove 330 and the snap-fit ​​groove 340 of the scale inhibition module 300, the protective sleeve 220 can also be designed to have an installation groove that is inclined to transition with the limiting groove. Specifically, the limiting groove extends along the axial direction of the protective sleeve 220, and the installation groove extends along the circumferential direction of the protective sleeve 220. During installation, the snap-fit ​​block 211 is first aligned with the limiting groove so that the protective sleeve 220 extends into the water outlet pipe 210. When it reaches the top of the limiting groove, the protective sleeve 220 is rotated so that the snap-fit ​​block 211 extends into the installation groove, thus completing the installation of the protective sleeve 220.

[0063] Preferably, the installation groove is designed to be on the same side as the limiting groove and the snap-fit ​​groove 340 is on the same side as the clearance groove 330. In other words, the extension direction of the installation groove from the limiting groove and the extension direction of the snap-fit ​​groove 340 from the clearance groove 330 are the same. In this way, the rotation direction of the scale inhibitor module 300 during installation is the same as the rotation direction of the protective sleeve 220 during installation. While the scale inhibitor module 300 is rotating, the protective sleeve 220 is further rotated into place, so that the protective sleeve 220 is more securely installed on the outlet pipe 210. This avoids the situation where the protective sleeve 220 is disengaged when the scale inhibitor module 300 is installed due to the opposite rotation direction of the two installations.

[0064] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the scale inhibitor module 300 includes a housing 310 and a cover 320. Specifically, the housing 310 includes an inner housing 311 and an outer housing 312. The outer housing 312 is fitted over the outer side of the inner housing 311 and defines a receiving cavity 313 for receiving scale inhibitor material between the outer housing 312 and the inner housing 311. The cover 320 covers the receiving cavity 313 and includes an annular cover body 321 and a connecting tube 322 disposed on the annular cover body 321. The connecting tube 322 is fitted over the protective sleeve 220, and a snap-fit ​​groove 340 is formed on the connecting tube 322.

[0065] In this embodiment, a snap-fit ​​groove 340 is formed on the connecting pipe body 322. The connecting pipe body 322 provides the location for forming the snap-fit ​​groove 340. It is understood that in order to increase the volume of the receiving cavity 313, the inner shell 311 and the outer shell 312 are usually designed to be relatively thin. If the scale inhibitor module 300 is designed to directly cooperate with the water outlet pipe 210 and the protective sleeve 220 through its inner shell 311, it is easy to cause deformation of the inner shell 311 and loosening of the scale inhibitor module 300. At the same time, it is more difficult to process the groove on a relatively thin structure. In this embodiment, by forming a snap-fit ​​groove 340 on the connecting pipe body 322, on the one hand, it is beneficial to ensure the reliable connection between the scale inhibitor module 300 and the water outlet pipe 210, effectively reducing the processing difficulty. On the other hand, the connecting pipe body 322 further increases the weight of the scale inhibitor module 300, so that the scale inhibitor module 300 can better stabilize the water outlet pipe 210 and avoid the water outlet pipe 210 from shaking due to water flow fluctuations.

[0066] For example, the annular cover body 321 and the connecting tube body 322 are detachably connected, or the annular cover body 321 and the connecting tube body 322 are integrally connected.

[0067] In one specific embodiment, such as Figure 2 and Figure 8As shown, the inner wall surface of the annular cover body 321 (the side facing away from the connecting pipe body 322) is formed with a positioning groove 3211 and a positioning structure 3212. When installing the scale inhibitor module 300, the outer shell 312 is aligned and inserted into the positioning groove 3211, and the inner shell 311 is aligned and abutted against the positioning structure 3212. The positioning groove 3211 is used to realize the installation and positioning of the outer shell 312, reducing the installation difficulty between the shell and the annular cover body 321.

[0068] More specifically, the outer ring of the annular cover body 321 forms a first annular rib, the inner ring of the annular cover body 321 forms a second annular rib, and a third annular rib is formed at intervals on the inner side of the first annular rib, wherein the first annular rib and the third annular rib together define a positioning groove 3211, and the second annular rib defines a positioning structure 3212.

[0069] Furthermore, such as Figure 3 As shown, the annular cover body 321 and the connecting pipe body 322 are integrally formed. The outer wall surface of the connecting pipe body 322 is provided with multiple reinforcing ribs, which are distributed at intervals along the circumference of the connecting pipe body 322. At the same time, the multiple reinforcing ribs are connected to the annular cover body 321. While strengthening the strength of the connecting pipe body 322, the scale inhibition module 300 is also increased in weight, so that the scale inhibition module 300 can better stabilize the water outlet pipe 210 and avoid the water outlet pipe 210 from shaking due to water flow fluctuations.

[0070] Furthermore, a portion of the inner shell 311 is recessed toward the outer shell 312 to form a partial clearance groove 330, and another partial clearance groove 330 is formed on the connecting pipe 322.

[0071] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the inner liner 100 includes a first inner liner 100A and a second inner liner 100B that are independent of each other. The first inner liner 100A and the second inner liner 100B are respectively provided with their own water inlet structure, water outlet structure and heating pipe. The water outlet structure 200A of the first inner liner 100A and the water inlet structure 400B of the second inner liner 100B are connected by a connecting pipe 500.

[0072] In detail, the inlet of the water inlet structure 400A is adapted to be connected to the external water inlet pipe 800. The outlet of the water inlet structure 400A and the inlet of the water outlet structure 200A are located inside the first inner tank 100A. The outlet of the water outlet structure 200A and the inlet of the water inlet structure 400B are connected through the connecting pipe 500. The outlet of the water inlet structure 400B and the inlet of the water outlet structure 200B are located inside the second inner tank 100B. The outlet of the water outlet structure 200B is connected to the external water outlet pipe 900. In this way, the external water inlet pipe 800 first introduces water into the first inner tank 100A. When the first inner tank 100A has a certain amount of water, it then introduces water into the second inner tank 100B through the connecting pipe.

[0073] Furthermore, the first inner liner 100A and the second inner liner 100B are respectively provided with magnesium rods 600.

[0074] This embodiment provides a dual-tank water heater 10, with two independent inner tanks, each having its own inlet and outlet structure and heating element. The water in each inner tank can be heated by controlling the heating elements of each tank independently. Thus, with the same overall unit volume, the capacity of both the first inner tank 100A and the second inner tank 100B is smaller than that of the existing integrated inner tank design. Furthermore, in situations where the user uses only a small amount of water for washing, such as for personal hygiene or washing vegetables, only the water in the second inner tank 100B needs to be heated. After use, the amount of hot water remaining in the second inner tank 100B is relatively small, improving hot water utilization and avoiding waste. Simultaneously, the amount of water required to heat each heating element is also smaller, thereby improving the heating efficiency and heating speed of each heating element.

[0075] In one specific embodiment, the water inlet structure 400A, water inlet structure 400B, water outlet structure 200A, and water outlet structure 200B are integrated on the heating tube, or in other words, part of the heating tube is constructed to form the water inlet structure 400A, water inlet structure 400B, water outlet structure 200A, and water outlet structure 200B. In this way, the heating tube 700 has the functions of heating, water inlet, and water outlet, further reducing the number of openings in the inner tank 100.

[0076] More specifically, the first inner tank 100A is located below the second inner tank 100B. The outlet of the water inlet structure 400A is located at the bottom of the first inner tank 100A, and the outlet of the water inlet structure 400B is located at the bottom of the second inner tank 100B. This helps to reduce water stagnation on the bottom walls of the first and second inner tanks 100A and 100B. The heating element 700A is located at the bottom of the first inner tank 100A, and the heating element 700B is located at the bottom of the second inner tank 100B. This allows for direct water supply to the bottom of the inner tanks 100A and 100B. The inlet of the water outlet structure 200A is located at the top of the first inner tank 100A, and the inlet of the water outlet structure 200B is located at the top of the second inner tank 100B. In this way, when the user uses a large amount of water, the heating tubes 700A and 700B work simultaneously. The heating tube 700A heats the water at the bottom of the first inner tank 100A. The heated water flows up to the top of the first inner tank 100A, so the water flowing from the first inner tank 100A into the second inner tank 100B is hot (warm) water, avoiding the problem of cold water from the first inner tank 100A mixing into the second inner tank 100B. The hot (warm) water from the first inner tank 100A is further heated by the heating tube 700B and continues to rise to the top of the second inner tank 100B, and finally is discharged from the water outlet structure 200B. Since the water drained from the first inner tank 100A into the second inner tank 100B has already been preheated by the heating element 700A and is at a higher temperature, the water in the second inner tank 100B heats up more easily, resulting in higher heating efficiency, faster heating speed, and shorter hot water delivery time.

[0077] In some embodiments, a scale-inhibiting module 300 is provided in both the first inner tank 100A and the second inner tank 100B. This effectively ensures the scale-inhibiting effect of the two inner tanks 100.

[0078] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-described technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A water heater, characterized in that, include: Inner liner; A water outlet structure is provided inside the inner tank, and the water inlet of the water outlet structure is distributed at intervals with the top wall of the inner tank; The water outlet structure includes a water outlet pipe and a protective sleeve fitted onto the water outlet pipe. The scale inhibition module is located on the water outlet structure and close to the water inlet of the water outlet structure; The protective sleeve or the water outlet pipe is provided with a locking block; the inner annular surface of the scale inhibitor module is formed with interconnected clearance grooves and locking grooves, and the locking grooves extend circumferentially along the scale inhibitor module, the clearance grooves extend axially along the scale inhibitor module, the water outlet pipe and the protective sleeve extend into the hollow area of ​​the scale inhibitor module from bottom to top, and the locking block extends into the scale inhibitor module along the clearance grooves, and the locking block is locked into the locking grooves by rotating the scale inhibitor module.

2. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The end of the protective sleeve protrudes beyond the end of the water outlet pipe, and the end of the protective sleeve defines the water inlet of the water outlet structure.

3. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The scale inhibition module is a hollow ring and is fitted over the protective sleeve, with the end of the protective sleeve protruding from the scale inhibition module.

4. The water heater according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The water heater includes a heating element, and a portion of the heating element is configured as the water outlet structure.

5. The water heater according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The inner ring of the scale inhibitor module defines an annular gap between itself and the outlet pipe. Some of the scale inhibitor modules are spaced apart from the protective sleeve, so that the two ends of the annular gap are connected to the inner tank.

6. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking block is located on the outer side wall of the water outlet pipe. The side wall of the protective sleeve forms a limiting groove from the bottom to the middle area. A part of the locking block extends into the limiting groove and engages with the limiting groove, while another part protrudes from the side wall of the protective sleeve and is engaged in the locking groove.

7. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The scale inhibition module includes: a housing, comprising an inner housing and an outer housing, wherein the outer housing is sleeved on the outside of the inner housing and defines a receiving cavity for accommodating scale inhibition material between the outer housing and the inner housing; A cover is placed over the receiving cavity. The cover includes an annular cover body and a connecting tube body disposed on the annular cover body. The connecting tube body is sleeved over the protective sleeve, and the connecting tube body has the snap-fit ​​groove formed on it.

8. The water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that, A portion of the inner shell is recessed toward the outer shell to form a partial clearance groove, and another portion of the clearance groove is formed on the connecting pipe.

9. The water heater according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The inner liner includes a first inner liner and a second inner liner that are independent of each other. The first inner liner and the second inner liner are respectively provided with their own water inlet structure, water outlet structure and heating pipe. The water outlet structure of the first inner liner and the water inlet structure of the second inner liner are connected by a connecting pipe.

10. The water heater according to claim 9, characterized in that, The scale-inhibiting module is provided in both the first inner liner and the second inner liner.

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