Multi-way valves and water softeners

Abstract

This application relates to a multi-way valve and a water softener. The multi-way valve has a valve chamber open at one end and multiple channels, any one of which can selectively communicate with at least one other channel. Each channel has an opening connecting to the valve chamber, and the openings of some channels connecting to the valve chamber are spaced apart along the axial direction of the multi-way valve. In the above-mentioned multi-way valve, the openings of each channel connecting to the valve chamber are arranged in an intersecting manner within the valve chamber, making full use of the axial space of the multi-way valve and avoiding all openings from converging on the same plane. This effectively reduces the cross-sectional size of the multi-way valve, lowers the design difficulty, and saves on manufacturing costs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of water treatment technology, and in particular to a multi-way valve and a water softener. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, tap water used in cities is usually sourced from groundwater. However, groundwater typically contains calcium and magnesium ions, which can easily cause scale buildup during use, leading to damage to electrical appliances. Softening hard water can effectively prevent kidney stones, reduce the burden on the heart and kidneys, and benefit people's health. It also prevents electrical appliances from being damaged by excessive scale buildup. Therefore, water softeners, which can soften hard water, are being used more and more frequently in daily life.

[0003] Water softeners typically work by exchanging functional ions on resin with calcium and magnesium ions in the water, thereby adsorbing excess calcium and magnesium ions and removing limescale. Current water softeners generally include an integrated water circuit and a softening device and a brine supply device connected to it. Raw water enters the softening device through the integrated water circuit, where the resin layer softens the raw water and outputs it to the user through the integrated water circuit. When all the resin is saturated with calcium and magnesium ions, the water softener can no longer soften tap water, requiring backwashing and regeneration of the exchange resin. The brine supply device, after dissolving and saturating with salt, enters the softening device. The saturated salt solution soaks the resin, causing the numerous sodium ions in the solution to replace the calcium and magnesium ions adsorbed on the resin. Once the calcium and magnesium ions are replaced, the resin achieves regeneration, preparing it for the next water softening cycle.

[0004] In existing water softeners, the multi-way valve is the core component for controlling the flow direction of water in the integrated water circuit. By controlling the multi-way valve to switch between different work positions, the water flow can be controlled to flow in different directions in different structures, thereby realizing functions such as water supply, backwashing, regeneration, and water replenishment. Therefore, the wastewater generated from cleaning the resin and the raw water to be softened are both collected in the multi-way valve.

[0005] Existing five-position multi-way valves can only provide one high concentration of regenerated salt, resulting in a low resin regeneration rate, small water production capacity of the water softener, and a crude treatment process. To improve the resin regeneration rate and optimize the treatment process, it is necessary to design multi-way valves with more positions to enhance resin regeneration. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application addresses the problem that the number of working positions of a multi-port valve cannot meet the operational needs of a water softener, and provides a multi-port valve and a water softener that can achieve the technical effect of having more working positions to meet the operational needs of a water softener.

[0007] According to one aspect of this application, a multi-way valve is provided, the multi-way valve having a valve cavity open at one end, the valve cavity having a central axis, the multi-way valve having a plurality of channels, any one of the channels being selectively connected to at least one of the remaining channels;

[0008] Each channel has an opening that connects to the valve chamber, and the openings of some of the channels that connect to the valve chamber are spaced apart in the direction of extension of the central axis of the valve chamber.

[0009] In one embodiment, the multi-way valve has ten channels, any one of which can be selectively connected to at least one of the remaining channels, so that the multi-way valve can switch between seven different positions.

[0010] In one embodiment, the valve cavity includes a flow control portion and a cavity sidewall surrounding the flow control portion in the circumferential direction, with some of the openings of the channels formed in the flow control portion and the openings of the remaining channels formed in the cavity sidewall.

[0011] In one embodiment, the multi-way valve has a first channel and a second channel, the opening of the first channel being formed in the sidewall of the cavity, and the opening of the second channel being formed on the side of the flow control portion away from the opening of the first channel;

[0012] When the multi-way valve is in one of the six positions, the first channel and the second channel are interconnected.

[0013] In one embodiment, a first continuous flow channel is defined between the flow control part and the cavity sidewall, the first continuous flow channel surrounds the flow control part circumferentially, and the first channel and the second channel are interconnected through the first continuous flow channel.

[0014] In one embodiment, the multi-way valve has a third channel, the opening of which is formed in the sidewall of the cavity and located on the side of the opening of the first channel away from the flow control part;

[0015] When the multi-way valve is in one of the five positions, the third channel may be selectively connected to another channel.

[0016] In one embodiment, the multi-way valve has a second continuous flow channel extending from the flow control section to the third channel, the third channel being connected to another channel via the second continuous flow channel.

[0017] In one embodiment, the multi-way valve includes a fourth channel, the opening of which is formed in the flow control portion, and the opening of the fourth channel is located on one side of the opening of the first channel in the circumferential direction of the valve chamber.

[0018] The fourth channel may be selectively connected to either the first channel or the third channel.

[0019] In one embodiment, the multi-way valve includes a fifth channel, the opening of which is formed in the flow control portion, and in the circumferential direction of the valve chamber, the opening of the fifth channel is located between the opening of the second channel and the opening of the third channel;

[0020] The fifth channel may be selectively connected to either the second channel or the third channel.

[0021] In one embodiment, the multi-way valve includes a sixth channel and a seventh channel, the openings of the sixth channel and the seventh channel being formed on the side of the flow control portion away from the opening of the first channel, and in the circumferential direction of the valve cavity, the sixth channel and the seventh channel are located between the opening of the second channel and the opening of the fourth channel;

[0022] The first channel may be connected to either the sixth channel or the seventh channel.

[0023] In one embodiment, the multi-way valve includes an eighth channel and a ninth channel, both of which are formed in the flow control section. In the circumferential direction of the valve chamber, the opening of the eighth channel is located between the opening of the fourth channel and the opening of the fifth channel, and the opening of the ninth channel is located between the opening of the fourth channel and the opening of the eighth channel.

[0024] The fifth channel may be selectively connected to either the eighth channel or the ninth channel, and the ninth channel may also be selectively connected to the first channel.

[0025] In one embodiment, the multi-way valve includes a tenth channel, the opening of which is formed in the flow control portion, and the opening of the tenth channel is located between the opening of the fourth channel and the opening of the sixth channel in the circumferential direction of the valve chamber.

[0026] The tenth channel may be selectively connected to the first channel.

[0027] In one embodiment, the multi-way valve further includes a submerged channel formed within the flow control section and extending radially along the valve cavity;

[0028] One end of the concealed channel is connected to the sixth channel, and the other end of the concealed channel may optionally be connected to the fifth channel.

[0029] According to another aspect of this application, a water softener is provided, including the aforementioned multi-way valve.

[0030] In the aforementioned multi-way valve, the openings connecting each channel to the valve chamber are arranged in an axial pattern within the valve chamber. This makes full use of the axial space of the valve chamber and avoids all openings converging on the same plane, thereby effectively reducing the cross-sectional size of the multi-way valve, lowering the design difficulty of the multi-way valve, and saving on the manufacturing cost of the multi-way valve. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of some structural modules of a water softener according to an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the channels of a multi-way valve according to an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the conduction of a multi-way valve in the water supply position according to an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the conduction of a multi-way valve in the backwash position according to an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the conduction of a multi-way valve in the first regeneration position according to an embodiment of this application.

[0036] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the conduction of a multi-way valve in the slow wash position according to an embodiment of this application.

[0037] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the conduction of a multi-way valve in the second regeneration position according to an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the conduction of a multi-way valve in the water supply position according to an embodiment of this application.

[0039] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the conduction of a multi-way valve in the positive washing position according to an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a multi-way valve according to an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A partial structural exploded view of the multi-way valve shown.

[0042] Figure 12 for Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the valve body of the multi-way valve shown.

[0043] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the arrangement of the connecting holes of the valve body according to an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 14This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fixed valve plate facing away from the moving valve plate according to an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the moving valve plate facing the fixed valve plate according to an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0047] 100. Water softener; 20. Multi-way valve; 21. Valve body; 212. Valve body connecting hole; 22. Valve core assembly; 221. Fixed valve plate; 2212. Fixed valve plate connecting hole; 223. Moving valve plate; 2232. First connecting groove; 2234. Second connecting groove; 2236. Third connecting groove; 2238. Flow cut-off part; 23. Valve stem; 24. Valve core nut; 25. Valve cavity; A. First channel; B. Second channel; C. Third channel; D. Fourth channel; E. Fifth channel; F. Sixth channel; G. Seventh channel; H. Eighth channel; I. Ninth channel; J. Tenth channel; K. First continuous flow channel; L. Second continuous flow channel; M. Submerged channel; 40. Water softening device; 41. Resin tank; 43. Central pipe; 45. Upper water distributor; 47. Lower water distributor; 60. Jet ejector; 80. Brine tank. Detailed Implementation

[0048] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0049] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this application 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0050] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0051] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; 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; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0052] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0053] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0054] like Figure 1 As shown, one embodiment of this application provides a water softener 100, which can remove calcium and magnesium ions from raw water through ion exchange resin, thereby reducing water hardness and providing soft water with lower calcium and magnesium ion content for water-using equipment.

[0055] As described in the background section, the water softener 100 includes an integrated water circuit and a water softening device 40 and a brine supply device connected to the integrated water circuit. The integrated water circuit includes a multi-way valve 20 for controlling the direction of water flow. The water softening device 40 includes a resin tank 41, an upper water distributor 45, a lower water distributor 47, and a central tube 43. The resin tank 41 is filled with a resin layer formed of resin particles. The central tube 43 is vertically inserted into the resin tank 41. The upper water distributor 45 and the lower water distributor 47 are respectively installed at both ends of the central tube 43. The upper ends of the upper water distributor 45 and the central tube 43 are connected to the multi-way valve 20, while the lower water distributor 47 is inserted into the resin layer. The salt supply device includes an ejector 60 and a salt tank 80. The multi-way valve 20 is connected to the salt tank 80 through the ejector 60. The ejector 60 includes a first water inlet, a first water outlet, a second water inlet, and a second water outlet, which are respectively connected to the multi-way valve 20. The raw water in the multi-way valve 20 can enter the ejector 60 through the first water inlet and the second water inlet. The salt solution generated in the ejector 60 can flow into the multi-way valve 20 through the first water outlet or the second water outlet.

[0056] The multi-way valve 20 has seven positions: water supply position, backwash position, first regeneration position, slow wash position, second regeneration position, water replenishment position, and forward wash position. The multi-way valve 20 can switch between the above positions so that the water softener 100 has seven states: water supply state, backwash state, first regeneration state, slow wash state, second regeneration state, water replenishment state, and forward wash state.

[0057] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, when the water softener 100 is in the water supply state, the multi-way valve 20 is in the water supply position. The raw water enters the resin layer in the resin tank 41 through the upper water distributor 45 from the multi-way valve 20. The calcium and magnesium ions in the raw water exchange with the sodium ions on the resin layer to soften the water. The softened water generated enters the central pipe 43 through the lower water distributor 47 and finally flows out through the multi-way valve 20 to supply water to water-using equipment.

[0058] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, when the water softener 100 is in the backwashing state, the multi-way valve 20 is in the backwashing position. Part of the raw water passes through the multi-way valve 20 in sequence through the central pipe 43 and the lower water distributor 47, and then flushes the resin layer in the resin tank 41 from bottom to top. The wastewater after cleaning is discharged through the upper water distributor 45 and then through the multi-way valve 20.

[0059] like Figure 2 and Figure 5As shown, when the water softener 100 is in the first regeneration state, the multi-way valve 20 is in the first regeneration position. The raw water flows into the first water inlet of the ejector 60 through the multi-way valve 20. Due to the negative pressure, the brine in the brine tank 80 is drawn out and mixed with the raw water to form a salt solution of the first concentration. The salt solution flows out from the first water outlet of the ejector 60 and passes through the multi-way valve 20, the central pipe 43 and the lower water distributor 47 in sequence into the resin layer in the resin tank 41. After the salt solution mixes with the resin layer and replaces the sodium and magnesium ions on the resin layer, it is discharged through the multi-way valve 20 via the upper water distributor 45.

[0060] like Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, when the water softener 100 is in slow wash mode, the multi-way valve 20 is in slow wash position. The raw water passes through the central pipe 43 and the lower water distributor 47 in sequence through the multi-way valve 20 and slowly rinses the resin layer in the resin tank 41 from bottom to top. The wastewater after rinsing is discharged from the multi-way valve 20 through the upper water distributor 45.

[0061] like Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown, when the water softener 100 is in the second regeneration state, the multi-way valve 20 is in the second regeneration position. The raw water flows into the second water inlet of the ejector 60 through the multi-way valve 20. Due to the negative pressure, the brine in the brine tank 80 is drawn out and mixed with the raw water to form a brine solution of the second concentration. The brine solution flows out from the second water outlet of the ejector 60 and passes through the multi-way valve 20, the central pipe 43 and the lower water distributor 47 in sequence into the resin layer in the resin tank 41. After the brine solution mixes with the resin layer and replaces the sodium and magnesium ions on the resin layer, it is discharged through the multi-way valve 20 via the upper water distributor 45.

[0062] like Figure 2 and Figure 8 As shown, when the water softener 100 is in the water replenishment state, the multi-way valve 20 is in the water replenishment position. The raw water flows from the multi-way valve 20 into the ejector 60 and then into the brine tank 80 to replenish the brine tank 80.

[0063] like Figure 2 and Figure 9 As shown, when the water softener 100 is in the forward washing state, the multi-way valve 20 is in the forward washing position. The raw water enters the resin layer in the resin tank 41 through the multi-way valve 20 via the upper water distributor 45. The water pressure slowly settles the loose resin and precipitates the dirt. The wastewater after washing passes through the lower water distributor 47 and the central pipe 43 and is discharged through the multi-way valve 20.

[0064] Please see Figures 10 to 12 To meet the requirements of the aforementioned seven workstations, the multi-way valve 20 of this application has a valve chamber 25 with one open end, and the valve chamber 25 has a central axis α (e.g., Figure 11As shown, the multi-way valve 20 has multiple channels, any one of which can be selectively connected to at least one other channel. Each channel has an opening that connects to the valve chamber 25, and the openings of some channels that connect to the valve chamber 25 are spaced apart in the extension direction of the central axis L of the valve chamber 25.

[0065] In this way, the openings of the various channels of the multi-way valve 20 that connect to the valve chamber 25 are arranged in an intersecting manner in the valve chamber 25, making full use of the axial space of the valve chamber 25 and avoiding all openings from gathering on the same plane. This effectively reduces the cross-sectional size of the multi-way valve 20, reduces the design difficulty of the multi-way valve 20, and saves the manufacturing cost of the multi-way valve 20.

[0066] In one specific embodiment, the multi-way valve 20 has ten channels, any one of which can selectively communicate with at least one other channel, enabling the multi-way valve 20 to switch between seven different workstations. It is understood that the number of channels in the multi-way valve 20 is not limited to this and can be configured according to the number of workstations to meet different requirements.

[0067] The multi-way valve 20 includes a valve body 21, a valve core assembly 22, a valve stem 23, and a valve core nut 24. The valve body 21 has a hollow shell structure with a cavity that communicates with the external environment at one end. The cavity has a bottom wall and side walls, with the side walls circumferentially surrounding the bottom wall to form an opening communicating with the external environment. The valve core assembly 22 is housed within the cavity of the valve body 21. The valve core assembly 22 includes a fixed valve plate 221 and a movable valve plate 223. The fixed valve plate 221 is fixedly installed within the cavity and abuts against the bottom wall of the cavity. The movable valve plate 223 is stacked on the side of the fixed valve plate 221 away from the bottom wall of the cavity. The first axial end of the valve stem 23 extends into the cavity and is drivenly engaged with the movable valve plate 223. The second axial end of the valve stem 23 extends out of the cavity to engage with a drive unit. The valve core nut 24 is sleeved on the end of the valve stem 23 where the first axial end connects to the second axial end and is housed within the receiving cavity. The valve core nut 24 is used to close the opening of the receiving cavity to form a sealed space, and at the same time, it can apply pressure to the valve core assembly 22 to form an end face seal between the moving valve plate 223 and the fixed valve plate 221. Driven by the drive unit, the valve stem 23 drives the moving valve plate 223 to rotate relative to the fixed valve plate 221, thereby allowing the multi-way valve 20 to switch between different working positions.

[0068] Thus, the valve core assembly 22 and the valve body 21 together define and form the valve cavity 25. The valve cavity 25 has a flow control section and a cavity sidewall surrounding the flow control section in the circumferential direction. The flow control section is formed by the bottom wall of the receiving cavity and the valve core assembly 22, and the cavity sidewall of the valve cavity 25 is formed by the receiving cavity sidewall. The openings of some of the ten channels are formed in the flow control section, and the openings of the remaining channels are formed in the cavity sidewall.

[0069] It is understood that the opening of the channel formed in the flow control section can be formed in at least one of the valve body 21, the fixed valve plate 221, or the movable valve plate 223. Specifically, in the following embodiments, such as Figure 13 As shown, the valve body 21 has multiple valve body communication holes 212 on the bottom wall of its receiving cavity, such as... Figure 14 As shown, the fixed valve plate 221 has multiple fixed valve plate connecting holes 2212, and the fixed valve plate connecting holes 2212 are arranged one-to-one with the valve body connecting holes 212 to form a channel opening for mutual communication.

[0070] like Figure 15 As shown, the movable valve plate 223 has multiple connecting slots, and the openings of each channel are interconnected through these connecting slots. Specifically, the movable valve plate 223 has a first connecting slot 2232, a second connecting slot 2234, and a third connecting slot 2236 on its surface facing the fixed valve plate 221. These three connecting slots are arranged sequentially and at intervals along the circumference of the movable valve plate 223. The first connecting slot 2232 is fan-shaped, extending circumferentially along the movable valve plate 223, and its outer edge connects to the outer periphery of the movable valve plate 223. The second connecting slot 2234 is elongated, extending radially from the edge of the movable valve plate 223 to the center of the movable valve plate 223 and penetrating the end face of the movable valve plate 223 away from the fixed valve plate 221 at the center point. The third connecting slot 2236 is shaped like a "door" with its opening facing the edge of the movable valve plate 223.

[0071] Please continue reading. Figure 2 , Figure 12 as well as Figure 13 The multi-way valve 20 includes a first channel A, a second channel B, a third channel C, a fourth channel D, a fifth channel E, a sixth channel F, a seventh channel G, an eighth channel H, a ninth channel I, and a tenth channel J. The openings of the first channel A and the third channel C are both formed on the side wall of the valve cavity 25, and the third channel C is located above the first channel A. The openings of the remaining channels are all formed in the flow control section and are connected to the side surface of the flow control section facing the fixed valve plate 221.

[0072] Specifically, the opening of the first channel A is formed on the side wall of the valve chamber 25 near the flow control section. The other end of the first channel A is connected to the raw water source, and the raw water supplied by the raw water source flows into the valve chamber 25 through the first channel A. The opening of the second channel B is fan-shaped and is formed on the side of the flow control section away from the opening of the first channel A. The other end of the second channel B is connected to the water-using equipment to supply soft water to the water-using equipment. When the multi-way valve 20 is in one of the six positions—backwashing, first regeneration, slow washing, second regeneration, water replenishment, and forward washing—the first channel A and the second channel B are interconnected, and the raw water flowing out from the first channel A can be supplied to the water-using equipment through the second channel B.

[0073] Furthermore, in order to achieve the connection between the first channel A and the second channel B, the outer diameter of the flow control part of the valve cavity 25 is smaller than the inner diameter of the valve cavity 25. Therefore, the flow control part and the cavity sidewall together define and form a first continuous flow channel K that surrounds the flow control part in the circumferential direction. The raw water flowing into the valve cavity 25 from the first channel A can flow along the first continuous flow channel K to surround the flow control part in the circumferential direction, and then enter the second channel B to achieve a continuous supply of raw water.

[0074] Furthermore, combining Figure 15 As shown, a flow-blocking portion 2238 protrudes from part of the edge of the moving valve plate 223. The flow-blocking portion 2238 is used to block the first continuous flow channel K. When the multi-way valve 20 is in the water supply position, the flow-blocking portion 2238 blocks the outer edge of the opening of the second channel B, so the raw water in the first continuous flow channel K cannot flow into the second channel B, thereby preventing the raw water from being supplied to the water-using equipment.

[0075] The opening of the third channel C is formed on the side wall of the valve chamber 25 and is located on the side of the opening of the first channel A away from the flow control part. When the multi-way valve 20 is in one of the five positions: backwashing, first regeneration, slow washing, and second regeneration, the third channel C can be selectively connected to another channel, and the wastewater generated in the soft water device 40 can be discharged through the third channel C.

[0076] Furthermore, combined Figure 10 As shown, in order to facilitate the connection between the third channel C and the other channels, the multi-way valve 20 also has a second continuous flow channel L that extends from the self-controlled flow section to the third channel C. One end of the second continuous flow channel L is connected to the second connecting groove 2234 on the moving valve plate 25, and the other end of the second continuous flow channel L is connected to the third channel C. Therefore, the wastewater generated by the water softener 40 can flow out of the third channel C through the second connecting groove 2234 and the second continuous flow channel L in sequence.

[0077] In one specific embodiment, a second continuous flow channel L is formed on the valve stem 23 and the valve core nut 24. One end of the second continuous flow channel L is formed on the end face of the valve stem 23 to connect with the second connecting groove 2234 of the moving valve plate 223, and then extends along the axial direction of the valve stem 23 and connects with the outer side wall of the valve stem 23. The other end of the second continuous flow channel L is formed on the side wall of the valve core nut 24 to connect with the opening of the third channel C on the side wall of the valve cavity 25.

[0078] The opening of the fourth channel D is formed in the flow control part and is fan-shaped. In the circumferential direction of the valve chamber 25, the opening of the fourth channel D is located on one side of the opening of the first channel A. The opening of the fourth channel D can be selectively connected to the first channel A or the third channel C through the moving valve plate 223. The other end of the fourth channel D is connected to the upper water distributor 45.

[0079] When the multi-way valve 20 is in the water supply position, the opening of the fourth channel D is connected to the first channel A, and the raw water flowing out from the first channel A enters the upper water distributor 45 through the fourth channel D. When the multi-way valve 20 is in the backwash position, the first regeneration position, the slow wash position, and the second regeneration position, the fourth channel D is connected to the third channel C, and the wastewater flowing out from the upper water distributor 45 is discharged through the fourth channel D and the third channel C.

[0080] The opening of the fifth channel E is formed in the flow control section and is fan-shaped. In the circumferential direction of the valve chamber 25, the opening of the fifth channel E is located between the opening of the second channel B and the opening of the third channel C. The opening of the fifth channel E can be selectively connected to the second channel B or the third channel C through the moving valve plate 223. The other end of the fifth channel E is connected to the central tube 43.

[0081] When the multi-way valve 20 is in the water supply state, the opening of the fifth channel E is connected to the second channel B, and the soft water output from the central pipe 43 supplies water to the water-using equipment through the fifth channel E and the second channel B. When the multi-way valve 20 is in the first regeneration position, the opening of the fifth channel E is connected to the first water outlet of the ejector 60 through the eighth channel H, and the brine solution flowing out of the first water outlet of the ejector 60 flows into the central pipe 43 through the fifth channel E. When the multi-way valve 20 is in the second regeneration position, the opening of the fifth channel E is connected to the second water outlet of the ejector 60 through the ninth channel I, and the brine solution flowing out of the second water outlet of the ejector 60 flows into the central pipe 43 through the fifth channel E. When the multi-way valve 20 is in the forward washing state, the opening of the fifth channel E is connected to the third channel C, and the wastewater flowing out of the central pipe 43 is discharged through the fifth channel E and the third channel C.

[0082] The openings of the sixth channel F and the seventh channel G are both formed on the side of the flow control section away from the opening of the first channel A. In the circumferential direction of the valve chamber 25, the sixth channel F and the seventh channel G are located between the opening of the second channel B and the opening of the fourth channel D. The first channel A can be selectively connected to the opening of the sixth channel F or the opening of the seventh channel G. The other end of the sixth channel F is connected to the first water inlet of the ejector 60, and the other end of the seventh channel G is connected to the second water inlet of the ejector 60.

[0083] When the multi-way valve 20 is in the first concentration regeneration state, the first channel A is connected to the sixth channel F, and the raw water flows into the ejector 60 through the first channel A and the sixth channel F. When the multi-way valve 20 is in the second concentration regeneration state, the first channel A is connected to the seventh channel G, and the raw water flows into the ejector 60 through the first channel A and the seventh channel G.

[0084] Both the eighth channel H and the ninth channel I are formed in the flow control section. In the circumferential direction of the valve chamber 25, the opening of the eighth channel H is located between the opening of the fourth channel D and the opening of the fifth channel E, and the opening of the ninth channel I is located between the opening of the fourth channel D and the opening of the eighth channel H. The fifth channel E can be selectively connected to either the eighth channel H or the ninth channel I. The ninth channel I can also be selectively connected to the first channel A. The other end of the eighth channel H is connected to the first water outlet of the ejector 60, and the other end of the ninth channel I is connected to the second water outlet of the ejector 60.

[0085] When the multi-way valve 20 is in the first concentration regeneration state, the eighth channel H is connected to the fifth channel E, and the brine solution output from the ejector 60 enters the central pipe 43 through the eighth channel H and the fifth channel E. When the multi-way valve 20 is in the second concentration regeneration state, the ninth channel I is connected to the fifth channel E, and the brine solution output from the ejector 60 enters the central pipe 43 through the ninth channel I and the fifth channel E. When the multi-way valve 20 is in the water replenishment state, the ninth channel I is connected to the first channel A, and the raw water enters the brine tank 80 through the first channel A, the ninth channel I, and the ejector 60.

[0086] The opening of the tenth channel J is formed in the flow control section. In the circumferential direction of the valve chamber 25, the opening of the tenth channel J is located between the opening of the fourth channel D and the opening of the sixth channel F. The opening of the tenth channel J can be selectively connected to the first channel A, and the other end of the tenth channel J is connected to the central tube 43.

[0087] When the multi-way valve 20 is in the backwashing state, the tenth channel J is connected to the first channel A, and the raw water enters the central pipe 43 through the first channel A and the tenth channel J.

[0088] Thus, along the circumference of the valve cavity 25, the outlet ends of the fourth channel D, the tenth channel J, the sixth channel F, the seventh channel G, the second channel B, the fifth channel E, the eighth channel H, and the ninth channel I are arranged at intervals around the center point of the flow control section. The outlet end of the first flow channel is located between the outlet end of the ninth channel I and the outlet end of the fourth channel D, and the outlet end of the third channel C is located above the outlet end of the eighth channel H. The outlet ends of the above channels are reasonably arranged along the circumference of the valve cavity 25, and the outlet end of any channel can be interconnected with the outlet end of the corresponding channel to form different flow channels.

[0089] In some embodiments, the multi-way valve 20 further includes a submerged channel M formed within the flow control section. One end of the submerged channel M is connected to a sixth channel F, and the other end of the submerged channel M extends radially along the valve cavity 25 and is selectively connected to a fifth channel E via a communication groove of the movable valve plate 223. Specifically, in one embodiment, the submerged channel M is formed on the side surface of the fixed valve plate 221 facing the bottom wall of the receiving cavity of the valve body 21.

[0090] When the multi-way valve 20 is in the slow wash position, the first channel A is connected to the sixth channel F, and the sixth channel F is connected to the fifth channel E through the submerged channel M and the connecting groove on the moving valve plate 223. Therefore, the raw water flows into the submerged channel M through the openings of the first channel A and the sixth channel F, and then flows into the central pipe 43 through the fifth channel E.

[0091] When the multi-way valve 20 is in different positions, the connection status of each channel is as follows:

[0092] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 15 As shown, when the multi-way valve 20 is in the water supply position, the first channel A is connected to the fourth channel D through the first continuous flow channel K and the first connecting groove 2232, and the fifth channel E is connected to the second channel B through the third connecting groove 2236.

[0093] Therefore, the raw water flows sequentially through the first channel A, the first continuous flow channel K, and the fourth channel D into the upper water distributor 45, while the soft water flowing out from the central pipe 43 flows sequentially through the fifth channel E and the second channel B into the water-using equipment.

[0094] like Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 15 As shown, when the multi-way valve 20 is in the backwashing position, the first channel A is connected to the tenth channel J through the first continuous flow channel K and the first connecting groove 2232, and the fourth channel D is connected to the third channel C through the second connecting groove 2234 and the second continuous flow channel L.

[0095] Therefore, raw water flows sequentially through the first channel A, the first continuous flow channel K, and the tenth channel J into the central pipe 43, while wastewater flowing out from the upper water distributor 45 flows sequentially through the fourth channel D, the second continuous flow channel L, and the third channel C. Simultaneously, the first channel A is connected to the second channel B through the first continuous flow channel K to supply raw water to the water-using equipment.

[0096] like Figure 2 , Figure 5 , Figure 15 As shown, when the multi-way valve 20 is in the first regeneration position, the first channel A is connected to the sixth channel F through the first continuous flow channel K and the first connecting groove 2232, the eighth channel H is connected to the fifth channel E through the third connecting groove 2236, and the fourth channel D is connected to the third channel C through the second connecting groove 2234 and the second continuous flow channel L.

[0097] Therefore, raw water flows sequentially through the first channel A and the sixth channel F into the first water inlet of the ejector 60. The salt solution flowing out of the first water outlet of the ejector 60 flows sequentially through the eighth channel H and the fifth channel E into the central pipe 43. Wastewater flowing out of the upper water distributor 45 flows sequentially through the fourth channel D, the second continuous flow channel L, and the third channel C. At the same time, the first channel A is connected to the second channel B through the first continuous flow channel K to supply raw water to the water-using equipment.

[0098] like Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 15 As shown, when the multi-way valve 20 is in the slow wash position, the first channel A is connected to the sixth channel F through the first continuous flow channel K and the first connecting groove 2232. The sixth channel F is connected to the fifth channel E through the submerged channel M and the third connecting groove 2236. The fourth channel D is connected to the third channel C through the second connecting groove 2234 and the second continuous flow channel L.

[0099] Therefore, raw water flows sequentially through the first channel A, the sixth channel F, the submerged channel M, and the fifth channel E into the central pipe 43. Wastewater flowing out of the upper water distributor 45 flows out through the fourth channel D, the second continuous flow channel L, and the third channel C. At the same time, the first channel A is simultaneously connected to the second channel B through the first continuous flow channel to supply raw water to the water-using equipment.

[0100] like Figure 2 , Figure 7 , Figure 15 As shown, when the multi-way valve 20 is in the second regeneration position, the first channel A is connected to the seventh channel G through the first continuous flow channel K and the first connecting groove 2232; the ninth channel I is connected to the fifth channel E through the third connecting groove 2236; and the fourth channel D is connected to the third channel C through the second connecting groove 2234 and the second continuous flow channel I. Therefore, raw water flows sequentially through the first channel A and the seventh channel G into the second water inlet of the ejector 60. The salt solution flowing out from the second water outlet of the ejector 60 flows sequentially through the ninth channel I and the fifth channel E into the central pipe 43. Wastewater flowing out from the upper water distributor 45 flows sequentially through the fourth channel D, the second continuous flow channel L, and the third channel C. At this time, the first channel A is simultaneously connected to the second channel B through the first continuous flow channel K to supply raw water to the water-using equipment.

[0101] like Figure 2 , Figure 8 , Figure 15 As shown, when the multi-way valve 20 is in the water replenishment position, the first channel A is connected to the ninth channel I through the first connecting channel 2232. Therefore, raw water passes through the first channel A, the ninth channel I, and the ejector 60 to reach the brine tank 80 to replenish the brine tank 80. At this time, the first channel A is simultaneously connected to the second channel B through the first continuous flow channel K to supply raw water to the water-using equipment.

[0102] like Figure 2 , Figure 9 , Figure 15 As shown, when the multi-way valve 20 is in the positive washing position, the first channel A is connected to the fourth channel D through the first connecting groove 2232, and the fifth channel E is connected to the third channel C through the second connecting groove 2234 and the second continuous flow channel I. Therefore, raw water flows sequentially through the first channel A and the fourth channel D into the upper water distributor 45, while wastewater flowing out from the central pipe 43 flows out through the fifth channel E, the second continuous flow channel I, and the third channel C. At this time, the first channel A is also connected to the second channel B through the first continuous flow channel K to supply raw water to the water-using equipment.

[0103] The aforementioned multi-way valve 20 achieves the switching of seven working positions by opening and closing multiple channels with an intersecting opening. The positions of the openings of each channel are reasonably distributed, and the on / off state can be quickly switched by rotating the valve plate 223 at a small angle. Moreover, the multi-way valve 20 has a small volume while having seven working positions, effectively reducing the design difficulty of the water softener 100.

[0104] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, 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.

[0105] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A multi-way valve, characterized in that, The multi-way valve includes a valve body (21) and a valve core assembly (22). The valve core assembly (22) includes a fixed valve plate (221) and a movable valve plate (223). The valve core assembly (22) and the valve body (21) together define a valve cavity (25). The valve cavity (25) includes a flow control part and a cavity sidewall surrounding the flow control part in the circumferential direction. The valve cavity (25) has a central axis. The multi-way valve is provided with ten channels. Any one of the channels can be selectively connected to at least one of the other channels so that the multi-way valve can switch between seven different work positions. Each of the channels has an opening that connects to the valve chamber (25). The openings of some of the channels are formed in the flow control part, and the openings of the remaining channels are formed in the sidewall of the chamber. The openings of some of the channels that connect to the valve chamber (25) are spaced apart in the extension direction of the central axis of the valve chamber (25). The multi-way valve further includes a first channel (A), a fifth channel (E), a sixth channel (F), and a submerged channel (M). The opening of the first channel (A) is formed on the side wall of the cavity. The opening of the fifth channel (E) is formed on the flow control section. The opening of the sixth channel (F) is formed on the side of the flow control section away from the opening of the first channel (A). The submerged channel (M) is formed on the side surface of the fixed valve plate (221) facing the bottom wall of the receiving cavity of the valve body (21) and extends radially along the valve cavity (25). One end of the submerged channel (M) is connected to the sixth channel (F), and the other end of the submerged channel (M) is optionally connected to the fifth channel (E). When the multi-way valve is in the slow wash position, the first channel (A) is connected to the sixth channel (F), and the sixth channel (F) is connected to the fifth channel (E) through the submerged channel (M) and the connecting groove on the moving valve plate (223).

2. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-way valve has a second channel (B), the opening of which is formed on the side of the flow control section away from the opening of the first channel (A); When the multi-way valve is in one of the six positions, the first channel (A) and the second channel (B) are both interconnected.

3. The multi-way valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, A first continuous flow channel (K) is defined between the flow control part and the cavity sidewall. The first continuous flow channel (K) surrounds the flow control part in the circumferential direction. The first channel (A) and the second channel (B) are interconnected through the first continuous flow channel (K).

4. The multi-way valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, The multi-way valve includes a fourth channel (D), the opening of which is formed in the flow control section. In the circumferential direction of the valve chamber (25), the opening of the fourth channel (D) is located on one side of the opening of the first channel (A). The fourth channel (D) may be selectively connected to the first channel (A).

5. The multi-way valve according to claim 4, characterized in that, The multi-way valve has a third channel (C), the opening of which is formed on the sidewall of the cavity and located on the side of the opening of the first channel (A) away from the flow control part; When the multi-way valve is in one of the five positions, the third channel (C) may be selectively connected to the fourth channel (D) or the fifth channel (E).

6. The multi-way valve according to claim 5, characterized in that, The multi-way valve has a second continuous flow channel (L) extending from the flow control section to the third channel (C), and the third channel (C) is connected to the fourth channel (D) or the fifth channel (E) through the second continuous flow channel (L).

7. The multi-way valve according to claim 6, characterized in that, In the circumferential direction of the valve chamber (25), the opening of the fifth channel (E) is located between the opening of the second channel (B) and the opening of the third channel (C); The fifth channel (E) may be selectively connected to the second channel (B) or the third channel (C).

8. The multi-way valve according to claim 7, characterized in that, The multi-way valve includes a seventh channel (G), the opening of which is formed on the side of the flow control section away from the opening of the first channel (A), and in the circumferential direction of the valve chamber (25), the sixth channel (F) and the seventh channel (G) are located between the opening of the second channel (B) and the opening of the fourth channel (D). The first channel (A) may be selectively connected to either the sixth channel (F) or the seventh channel (G).

9. The multi-way valve according to claim 8, characterized in that, The multi-way valve includes an eighth channel (H) and a ninth channel (I), both of which are formed in the flow control section. In the circumferential direction of the valve chamber (25), the opening of the eighth channel (H) is located between the opening of the fourth channel (D) and the opening of the fifth channel (E), and the opening of the ninth channel (I) is located between the opening of the fourth channel (D) and the opening of the eighth channel (H). The fifth channel (E) may be selectively connected to either the eighth channel (H) or the ninth channel (I), and the ninth channel (I) may also be selectively connected to the first channel (A).

10. The multi-way valve according to claim 9, characterized in that, The multi-way valve includes a tenth channel (J), the opening of which is formed in the flow control section. In the circumferential direction of the valve chamber (25), the opening of the tenth channel (J) is located between the opening of the fourth channel (D) and the opening of the sixth channel (F). The tenth channel (J) may be selectively connected to the first channel (A).

11. A water softener, characterized in that, Includes the multi-way valve as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.

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