Water inlet device and water heater

Abstract

This application provides a water inlet device and a water heater. The water inlet device includes: a valve body having a first through hole, a second through hole, and an open end of the valve body, wherein the first through hole and the second through hole are respectively disposed at different positions circumferentially on the valve body; the open end is located between the first through hole and the second through hole and is disposed along the cylinder; and a valve core assembly, at least a portion of which is located within the valve body and is movable relative to the valve body, the valve core assembly being used to change the opening degree of the first through hole, the second through hole, and the open end. The water heater includes a water heater body and the above-described water inlet device. The water inlet device and water heater provided by this application facilitate improved flow regulation speed and are more convenient for users.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of water heater technology, and more particularly to a water inlet device and a water heater. Background Technology

[0002] A water heater is a device that uses various physical principles to raise the temperature of cold water to produce hot water within a certain time. Water heaters can be classified according to their operating principles, including electric water heaters, gas water heaters, solar water heaters, magnetic water heaters, air source water heaters, and central heating water heaters.

[0003] In related technologies, a water heater may have an inlet end, a hot water end, and an outlet end. The inlet end may be equipped with an inlet valve, which regulates the flow rate of cold water entering the water heater from the inlet end. After being heated by the water heater, the cold water flows out from the hot water end. The hot water end may be equipped with a bypass valve, which regulates the flow rate of cold water mixed with the hot water flowing out from the hot water end. The mixed water can then flow out from the outlet end of the water heater for user use.

[0004] However, the inlet valve and bypass valve of the relevant technology can only change the opening of one opening, resulting in low efficiency in flow regulation. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a water inlet device and a water heater to solve the problem that in related technologies, both the water inlet valve and the bypass valve can only change the opening of one opening, resulting in low efficiency in flow regulation.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution:

[0007] One aspect of this application provides a water inlet device, comprising: a valve body having an axial closed end and an open end, wherein a first through hole and a second through hole are provided on the side wall of the valve body between the open end and the closed end, the first through hole and the second through hole being respectively disposed at different circumferential positions of the valve body; and a valve core assembly, at least a portion of which is located within the valve body and is movable relative to the valve body, the valve core assembly being used to change the opening degree of the first through hole, the second through hole, and the open end.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the valve core assembly includes: a valve sleeve located within the valve body and having a central hole, the central hole being opposite to and communicating with the open end; the sidewall of the valve sleeve having a communicating groove for communicating the first through hole and the central hole to form an inlet channel; the communicating groove also for communicating the first through hole, the central hole, and the second through hole to form a bypass channel; a valve stem passing through the valve body and threadedly connected to the valve body, at least a portion of the valve stem passing through the valve sleeve and through the open end; a flow channel forming between the valve stem and the inner surface of the open end; the flow rate of the flow channel being configured to vary with the axial movement of the valve stem along the open end; the valve stem being connected to the valve sleeve and used to drive the valve sleeve to move; the flow rates of the inlet channel and the bypass channel being configured to vary with the rotation of the valve sleeve.

[0009] In one possible implementation, at least part of the sidewall of the valve sleeve is semi-annular, and the circumference of the inner surface between the second end of the first through hole and the first end of the second through hole is less than the circumference of the outer surface of the semi-annular sidewall of the valve sleeve.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the valve stem has a mounting rod on its side wall, and the valve sleeve has a mounting groove on its first side wall with an opening; the mounting rod slides in the mounting groove, and has a first position in which it is embedded in the mounting groove and causes the valve sleeve to rotate by rotating the mounting groove; the mounting rod has a second position in which it slides out of the mounting groove and abuts against the end face of the valve sleeve; or, the valve sleeve is fixed to the valve stem.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the lower end of the second through hole is higher than the upper end of the first through hole; there are two connecting grooves, one above the other, with the upper connecting groove used to connect the second through hole and the lower connecting groove used to connect the first through hole.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the valve body is provided with a bushing, the bushing including a mounting portion and a limiting portion arranged sequentially, the mounting portion being embedded in the valve body and fixed to the inner surface of the valve body, the mounting portion having a threaded hole for threaded connection with the valve stem; the limiting portion being further away from the closed end of the valve body than the mounting portion, the limiting portion having a preset distance from the inner surface of the valve body, and having a through hole for the valve stem to pass through; the valve sleeve is rotatably disposed within the preset distance.

[0013] In one possible implementation, a sealing ring is provided between the mounting portion and the inner surface of the valve body.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the inner surface of the opening end has an inclined surface for forming the flow channel and / or the outer surface of the valve stem has an inclined surface for forming the flow channel.

[0015] In one possible implementation, a positioning plate is fixed inside the open end, the positioning plate having a central hole, and a flow channel for liquid to flow through is formed between the positioning plate and the open end; at least a portion of the valve stem is slidably disposed within the central hole.

[0016] Another aspect of this application provides a water heater, including a water heater body and a water inlet device as described above. The water heater body has a water inlet end and a hot water end. The water inlet device includes a valve body and a valve core assembly. A water inlet channel and a bypass channel are formed in the valve body. The water inlet channel is connected to the water inlet end, and the bypass channel is connected to the hot water end.

[0017] The water inlet device and water heater provided in this application, by setting a valve body, the valve body has a first through hole, a second through hole and an open end of the valve body, the first through hole and the second through hole are respectively set at different positions around the valve body; the open end of the valve body is located between the first through hole and the second through hole, and the open end of the valve body is set along the cylinder; by setting a valve core assembly in the valve body, the valve core assembly can move relative to the valve body to change the opening degree of the first through hole, the second through hole and the open end of the valve body. Compared with the existing valves that can only change a single opening, this application can change three openings, which facilitates the improvement of the flow regulation rate and makes it more convenient for users.

[0018] In addition to the technical problems solved by the embodiments of this application, the technical features constituting the technical solutions, and the beneficial effects brought about by the technical features of these technical solutions as described above, other technical problems that can be solved by the embodiments of this application, other technical features included in the technical solutions, and the beneficial effects brought about by these technical features will be further explained in detail in the specific implementation. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.

[0020] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a water heater provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0021] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of another water heater provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the water inlet device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0023] Figure 4 A front view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 5 for Figure 4 The diagram shown is a partial exploded view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve.

[0025] Figure 6 for Figure 4 An exploded view of the valve core assembly is shown.

[0026] Figure 7 for Figure 4 The figure shown is a three-dimensional longitudinal sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its first state.

[0027] Figure 8 for Figure 4 The diagram shows a longitudinal sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state.

[0028] Figure 9 for Figure 4 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state.

[0029] Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the second type of one-inlet, two-outlet valve provided in the embodiments of this application in the first state;

[0030] Figure 11 for Figure 10 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state.

[0031] Figure 12 A transverse sectional view of the third type of one-inlet, two-outlet valve provided in the embodiments of this application in the first state;

[0032] Figure 13 for Figure 10 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state.

[0033] Figure 14 A front view of yet another one-inlet, two-outlet valve provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 15 for Figure 14 The diagram shown is a partial exploded view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve.

[0035] Figure 16 for Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the valve sleeve is shown;

[0036] Figure 17 for Figure 15 The diagram shown illustrates the mounting rod in the second position;

[0037] Figure 18for Figure 14 The right view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its first state is shown.

[0038] Figure 19 for Figure 14 The diagram shows a longitudinal sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its first state.

[0039] Figure 20 for Figure 14 The right view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state is shown.

[0040] Figure 21 for Figure 14 The diagram shows a longitudinal sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state.

[0041] Figure 22 for Figure 21 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the mounting plate.

[0042] Figure 23 A partial exploded view of another one-inlet, two-outlet valve provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0043] Figure 24 for Figure 23 The exploded view of the valve core assembly is shown.

[0044] Figure 25 for Figure 23 The right view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its first state is shown.

[0045] Figure 26 for Figure 25 Sectional view at AA;

[0046] Figure 27 for Figure 21 The right view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state is shown.

[0047] Figure 28 for Figure 21 The diagram shows a longitudinal sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state.

[0048] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0049] 1. Valve body; 11. Closed end; 12. Open end; 13. First through hole; 14. Second through hole; 15. Inlet pipe; 16. Outlet pipe; 17. Bypass pipe; 18. Cover plate; 181. Mounting hole; 19. Cylinder;

[0050] 2. Valve core assembly;

[0051] 21. Valve stem;

[0052] 22. Valve sleeve; 221. Center hole; 222. Communicating groove; 223. First communicating groove; 224. Second communicating groove; 225. First end face; 226. Second end face; 227. Mounting groove; 2271. First part; 2272. Second part;

[0053] 23. Mounting rod;

[0054] 24. Interception plate;

[0055] 31. Mounting plate; 32. Water-retaining platform;

[0056] 4. Bushing; 41. Mounting part; 42. Limiting part; 421. Limiting groove;

[0057] 5. Driver;

[0058] 61. Memory; 62. Timer;

[0059] 7. Controller;

[0060] 8. Sealing ring;

[0061] 9. Valves; 91. One-inlet-one-outlet valve; 92. One-inlet-two-outlet valve;

[0062] 10. Water heater; 101. Inlet; 102. Hot water outlet; 103. Outlet; 104. Inlet branch pipe; 105. Outlet branch pipe; 106. Bypass branch pipe; 107. Outlet main pipe; 108. Inlet main pipe.

[0063] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific embodiments of this application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of this application to those skilled in the art through reference to particular embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0064] In gas water heaters using this technology, when a user uses water, the gas water heater detects the water flow signal, first turning on the fan for pre-purge, expelling exhaust gases from the water heater through the flue. After the air pressure switch is detected and closed, the gas valve is opened for ignition and combustion. The heated water then flows out of the water heater. It takes approximately 3-5 seconds from the user turning on the water to the water heater igniting and burning. From the time the user turns on the water to the time the constant-temperature hot water flows out in the shower, it generally takes 20-30 seconds.

[0065] However, when a gas water heater is used again after a short period of inactivity (i.e., when the user uses water twice in a short time), some water remains in the outlet of the water heater after the previous use. Therefore, the hotter water will flow out of the outlet first. Also, as mentioned above, the fan needs to perform pre-cleaning before ignition, and ignition and combustion take 3-5 seconds. Therefore, after the residual hot water flows out, the cooler water will flow out of the outlet. Once the water heater has completed ignition and combustion, water at the target temperature will flow out of the outlet.

[0066] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a water heater provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another water heater provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The arrows in the diagram indicate the direction of liquid flow. (Reference) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The water heater 10 may have an inlet 101, a hot water outlet 102, and an outlet 103.

[0067] For example, the inlet end 101 may have an inlet branch pipe 104, the hot water end 102 may have an outlet branch pipe 105, and the outlet end 103 may have an outlet main pipe 107. A bypass branch pipe 106 may be connected between the inlet branch pipe 104 and the outlet branch pipe 105. When the water heater 10 is working, cold water can be delivered through the inlet main pipe 108. The output end of the inlet main pipe 108 may be connected to the inlet branch pipe 104 and the bypass branch pipe 106 respectively. This allows a portion of the cold water to enter the inlet end 101 of the water heater 10 through the inlet branch pipe 104, and a portion of the cold water to mix with the hot water flowing out of the outlet branch pipe 105 through the bypass branch pipe 106. The mixed water can then flow to the user through the outlet main pipe 107.

[0068] The inventors of this application have discovered that when a user reuses water, increasing the amount of cold water mixed with the hot water in the hot water outlet 102 can lower the temperature of the water flowing out of the outlet 103 of the water heater 10; conversely, reducing the amount of cold water flowing into the water heater 10 can improve the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger, thereby increasing the temperature of the water flowing out of the outlet 103 of the water heater 10. This ensures that the water temperature flowing out of the outlet 103 of the water heater 10 approaches the target temperature when the user reuses water, thus improving the user's showering experience.

[0069] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are some embodiments of this application, but not all embodiments.

[0070] Example 1

[0071] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the water inlet device provided in an embodiment of this application. (Reference) Figures 1-3 The water inlet device provided in this application embodiment may include a memory 61, a timer 62, a valve 9, and a controller 7. The memory 61 may be installed in the water heater 10 and can record the user's last water usage end time. The timer 62 may be installed in the water heater 10 and can obtain the user's current water usage start time. At least some of the valves 9 may be located at the water inlet end 101 and can adjust the water flow rate into the water inlet end 101. At least some of the valves 9 may be located at the hot water end 102 and can adjust the water flow rate into the hot water end 102. The controller 7 can calculate the time interval between the user's current water usage start time and the user's last water usage end time, and can control the valves 9 when the time interval is less than a preset time period, so that liquid flows into the water inlet end 101 of the water heater 10 at a smaller flow rate and into the hot water end 102 of the water heater 10 at a larger flow rate.

[0072] Specifically, the memory 61 can acquire the time of the timer 62 when the user closes the valve 9 of the water outlet 103 (or shower head) of the water heater 10, and save this time as the user's last water usage end time. The memory 61 can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage device or a combination thereof, such as static random access memory 61 (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory 61 (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory 61 (EPROM), programmable read-only memory 61 (PROM), read-only memory 61 (ROM), magnetic storage 61, flash memory 61, magnetic disk or optical disk.

[0073] Additionally, timer 62 can acquire the current time when the user opens valve 9 (or showerhead valve 9) at the water outlet 103 of the water heater 10. This current time is the user's current start time for water use. Timer 62 can be a timer that requires periodic time calibration by the user. Alternatively, timer 62 can obtain the current time by sending a request to a server, which will then return the acquired current time. The current time can also be obtained from the network.

[0074] Furthermore, when the user opens the valve 9 (or the showerhead valve) at the outlet 103 of the water heater 10, the controller 7 can obtain the user's last water usage end time sent by the memory 61 and the user's current water usage start time sent by the timer 62. The controller 7 can calculate the difference between the user's current water usage start time and the user's last water usage end time to obtain the time interval between two adjacent water usages. The controller 7 can compare the calculated time interval with a preset time interval. If the time interval is less than the preset time interval, the controller 7 can control the valve 9 to reduce the water flow into the inlet 101 and increase the water flow into the hot water outlet 102. If the time interval is greater than the preset time interval, the water flow into the inlet 101 and the water flow into the hot water outlet 102 will remain unchanged.

[0075] It should be noted that the water inlet device provided in this application can have at least two states. The first state is where liquid flows into the water inlet 101 of the water heater 10 at a larger flow rate and into the hot water outlet 102 of the water heater 10 at a smaller flow rate. That is, a large inlet flow rate and small bypass flow rate state. The second state is where liquid flows into the water inlet 101 of the water heater 10 at a smaller flow rate and into the hot water outlet 102 of the water heater 10 at a larger flow rate. That is, a small inlet flow rate and large bypass flow rate state. The terms "larger" and "smaller" refer to a comparison between two states. Specifically, compared to the first state, the second state has a smaller flow rate into the water inlet 101 of the water heater 10 and a larger flow rate into the hot water outlet 102 of the water heater 10. When the user uses water for a second time, the water inlet device can operate in the second state for a period of time. After operating for a period of time, the water inlet device can switch from the second state to the first state. The time period during which the water inlet device operates in the second state can be a preset value. Alternatively, the water inlet device can switch from the second state to the first state after ignition and heating.

[0076] Optionally, the controller 7 may control the valve 9 when the water heater 10 is in a stable operating state, the water heater 10 is in a maximum heating state, and the temperature of the water outlet 103 of the water heater 10 is less than a preset temperature value, so that liquid flows into the water inlet 101 of the water heater 10 at a smaller flow rate and into the hot water outlet 102 of the water heater 10 at a smaller flow rate.

[0077] Specifically, the water inlet device provided in this application may also have a third state: liquid flows into the water inlet 101 of the water heater 10 at a relatively small flow rate, and into the hot water outlet 102 of the water heater 10 at a relatively small flow rate. That is, a small inlet flow rate and small bypass flow rate state. When the water heater 10 operates in the first state for a period of time, or when hot water at a stable temperature flows out of the outlet 103 of the water heater 10, and the proportional valve controlling the gas of the water heater 10 is adjusted to the maximum setting, but the outlet water temperature of the water heater 10 measured by the temperature detector installed at the outlet 103 of the water heater 10 is lower than the preset temperature value, the water inlet device can be switched from the first state to the third state to increase the temperature of the outlet 103 of the water heater 10.

[0078] refer to Figure 1 Alternatively, valve 9 can be configured in several ways, including the following:

[0079] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 1 There can be multiple valves 9, each of which can be a single inlet and outlet valve 91. Each valve 91 has one inlet and one outlet, and the flow rate of the pipe connected to the opening can be changed by adjusting the opening of the inlet or outlet. Valves 9 may include two single inlet and outlet valves 91. One valve 91 can be installed on the bypass branch pipe 106 to regulate the flow rate of the bypass branch pipe 106; the other valve 91 can be installed on the main inlet pipe 108 or the inlet branch pipe 104. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and possibly refers to a specific valve 91.) Figure 1 When the valve 91 is installed on the main inlet pipe 108, it can regulate the flow rate of the main inlet pipe 108. When the valve 91 is installed on the branch inlet pipe 104, it can regulate the flow rate of the branch inlet pipe 104. Of course, the valve 9 can also include three valves 91, with one valve 91 each on the bypass branch pipe 106, the branch inlet pipe 104, and the main inlet pipe 108.

[0080] Using multiple inlet and outlet valves 91 requires the controller 7 to individually adjust the opening size of each valve, resulting in cumbersome control procedures, complex flow regulation, and low efficiency in flow control. In another possible implementation of the valve 9 configuration, refer to... Figure 2 The valve 9 may include at least one inlet and two outlet valve 92. The inlet and two outlet valve 92 may have one inlet and two outlets, and the inlet and two outlet valve 92 may change the flow rate of the pipeline connected to the opening by changing the opening of the inlet and / or outlet. The inlet may be connected to the main inlet pipe 108, and the two outlets may be connected to the inlet branch pipe 104 and the bypass branch pipe 106, respectively.

[0081] The one-inlet-two-outlet valve 92 can adjust the opening degree of two openings or all three openings. To better control the flow rate, when the one-inlet-two-outlet valve 92 can only adjust the opening degree of two openings, a one-inlet-one-outlet valve 91 can be installed in the upstream or downstream pipeline of the one-inlet-two-outlet valve 92. For example, when the one-inlet-two-outlet valve 92 can only adjust the opening degree of two outlets, a one-inlet-one-outlet valve 91 can be installed upstream of the one-inlet-two-outlet valve 92. When the one-inlet-two-outlet valve 92 can only adjust the opening degree of one outlet and one inlet, and one outlet is connected to the inlet branch pipe 104, then a one-inlet-one-outlet valve 91 can be installed in the bypass branch pipe 106. Similarly, when the one-inlet-two-outlet valve can only adjust the opening degree of one outlet and one inlet, and one outlet is connected to the bypass branch pipe 106, then a one-inlet-one-outlet valve 91 can be installed in the inlet branch pipe 104.

[0082] Figures 4-28 Five different structures of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 are shown below for reference. Figures 4-28 This describes a possible implementation of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92. For ease of description, in this embodiment, the direction indicated by arrow X is the left end of the water inlet device, and the other end is the right end of the water inlet device; the direction indicated by arrow Y is the front end of the water inlet device, and the other end is the rear end of the water inlet device; the direction indicated by arrow Z is the upper end of the water inlet device, and the other side is the lower end of the water inlet device.

[0083] Figure 4 A front view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 provided for an embodiment of this application. (See reference) Figure 4 The one-in-two-out valve 92 may include a valve body 1, which may have an axial open end 12 and a closed end 11. That is, one axial end of the valve body 1 is closed to form the open end 12; the other axial end of the valve body 1 has an opening to form the open end 12. For example, Figure 4 In this embodiment, the valve body 1 may include a cylinder 19 and a cover plate 18. The cylinder 19 may be arranged vertically, and both its upper and lower ends may be open. The cover plate 18 may cover the upper open end 12 of the cylinder 19, so that the upper end of the cylinder 19 forms a closed end 11, and the lower end of the cylinder 19 forms an open end 12. Of course, the valve body 1 may also have other structures forming the open end 12 and the closed end 11; this embodiment is only used as an example. Figure 4 The structure of the cylindrical body 19 shown is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be a specific limitation.

[0084] refer to Figures 4-28 The side wall of the valve body 1 between the open end 12 and the closed end 11 of the valve body 1 may be provided with a first through hole 13 and a second through hole 14. At least part of the valve core assembly 2 is disposed in the valve body 1 and is movable relative to the valve body 1. The valve core assembly 2 is used to change the opening degree of two of the first through hole 13, the second through hole 14 and the open end 12. Figures 4-28The example shown is the accommodating space within the valve body 1, which is enclosed by the cylinder 19 and the cover plate 18.

[0085] The following is based on Figures 4-13 The valve core assembly 2 shown is described using the example of changing only the opening degree of the first through hole 13 and the second through hole 14. For methods where the valve core assembly 2 changes the first through hole 13 and the open end 12, or changes the second through hole 14 and the open end 12, please refer to the methods mentioned below for changing the first through hole 13, the second through hole 14, and the open end 12 (corresponding to...). Figures 14-28 The conclusion is as follows, which will not be discussed here.

[0086] refer to Figures 4-13 The first through hole 13 and the second through hole 14 can be disposed on the side wall of the cylinder 19. The valve core assembly 2 may include a valve sleeve 22, which can be connected via, for example... Figures 4-11 This illustrates how rotation within the valve body 1 changes the opening degree between the first through hole 13 and the second through hole 14, or the valve sleeve 22 can also be adjusted as follows: Figure 12 and Figure 13 The diagram illustrates how movement within the valve body 1 changes the opening degree of the first through-hole 13 and the second through-hole 14.

[0087] refer to Figures 4-11 In one example, the first through hole 13 and the second through hole 14 are located at different circumferential positions on the side wall of the cylinder 19. Figures 4-11 The example shown is that the first through hole 13 is located on the left side of the cylinder 19, and the second through hole 14 is located on the right side of the cylinder 19.

[0088] The valve sleeve 22 is rotatably disposed within the accommodating space formed by the cylinder 19 and the cover plate 18, and the rotation axis of the valve sleeve 22 can be arranged along the axis of the cylinder 19. That is, the rotation axis of the valve sleeve 22 is parallel to or coincides with the axis of the cylinder 19. The interior of the valve sleeve 22 may have a central hole 221, which can be opposite to and communicate with the opening end 12 of the valve body 1. The side wall of the valve sleeve 22 has a communicating groove communicating with the central hole 221. The communicating groove can be used to be opposite to the first through hole 13, so that the communicating groove communicates with the first through hole 13. The communicating groove can be used to be opposite to the second through hole 14, so that the communicating groove communicates with the second through hole 14.

[0089] Specifically, the connecting groove can connect the first through hole 13, the second through hole 14, and the opening end 12 of the valve body 1 through the central hole 221. The connecting groove can be configured in several ways, including:

[0090] In one possible implementation, Figure 6 for Figure 4 The exploded view of valve core assembly 2 is shown. Figure 7 for Figure 4The figure shown is a three-dimensional longitudinal sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 in its first state. Figure 8 for Figure 4 The longitudinal sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 shown is in the second state. Figure 9 for Figure 4 The diagram shows a transverse sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 in its second state. (Reference) Figures 6-9 The connecting groove may include at least a first connecting groove 223 and a second connecting groove 224. The first connecting groove 223 and the second connecting groove 224 may have a preset distance in the circumferential direction of the valve sleeve 22. The first connecting groove 223 can be used to connect to the first through hole 13, and the second connecting groove 224 can be used to connect to the second through hole 14.

[0091] Figures 7-9 The hollow arrow shown indicates the direction of liquid flow. (Reference) Figures 7-9 The open end 12 of the valve body 1 can be the inlet of a one-in-two-out valve, and the open end 12 of the valve body 1 can be connected to the main inlet pipe 108 through the inlet pipe 15; the first through hole 13 can be the first outlet of the one-in-two-out valve, and the open end 12 of the valve body 1, the central hole 221 of the valve sleeve 22, the first connecting groove 223 of the valve sleeve 22, and the first through hole 13 can form an inlet flow channel, and the first through hole 13 can be connected to the outlet pipe 16. Figure 2 The outlet branch pipe 105 is connected. The second through hole 14 can be the second outlet of a valve with one inlet and two outlets. The open end 12 of the valve body 1, the central hole 221 of the valve sleeve 22, the second connecting groove 224 of the valve sleeve 22, and the second through hole 14 can form a bypass flow channel. The second through hole 14 can be connected to the bypass pipe 17. Figure 2 The bypass branch pipe 106 is connected.

[0092] Of course, the first through hole 13 can also be the inlet of a one-in-two-out valve, and the open end 12 of the valve body 1 can be the first outlet of the one-in-two-out valve. The first through hole 13, the first connecting groove 223 of the valve sleeve 22, the center hole 221 of the valve sleeve 22, and the open end 12 of the valve body 1 can form an inlet flow channel, and the first through hole 13 can be connected with... Figure 2 The main inlet pipe 108 is connected to the valve. The second through hole 14 can be the second outlet of a valve with one inlet and two outlets. The first through hole 13, the center hole 221 of the valve sleeve 22, the second connecting groove 224 of the valve sleeve 22, and the second through hole 14 can form a bypass flow channel. The second through hole 14 can be connected to the bypass pipe 17. Figure 2 The bypass branch pipe 106 is connected. This flow pattern can be referenced. Figures 14-28 The one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 shown is derived from the reference and will not be described in detail here.

[0093] The following text is in the format of Figures 7-9The flow pattern shown is illustrated by the example that the first through hole 13 can be the first outlet of the one-in-two-out valve, the second through hole 14 can be the second outlet of the one-in-two-out valve, and the open end 12 of the valve body 1 can be the inlet of the one-in-two-out valve, to illustrate the first and second states of the one-in-two-out valve 92.

[0094] refer to Figure 7 In the first state, the one-in-two-out valve 92 can be directly opposite the first through hole 13, and the area of ​​direct opposition is relatively large. That is, the area of ​​the projection of the first connecting groove 223 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 onto the side wall of the cylinder 19 that coincides with the first through hole 13 is relatively large. In the first state, the second connecting groove 224 can be directly opposite the second through hole 14, and the area of ​​direct opposition is relatively small. That is, the area of ​​the projection of the first connecting groove 223 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 onto the side wall of the cylinder 19 that coincides with the first through hole 13 is relatively small.

[0095] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the second state, the one-in-two-out valve 92 can be directly opposite the first through hole 13, and the area of ​​direct opposition is relatively small. That is, the area of ​​the projection of the first connecting groove 223 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 onto the side wall of the cylinder 19 that coincides with the area of ​​the first through hole 13 is relatively small. In the second state, the second connecting groove 224 can be directly opposite the second through hole 14, and the area of ​​direct opposition can be relatively large. That is, the area of ​​the projection of the second connecting groove 224 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 onto the side wall of the cylinder 19 that coincides with the area of ​​the second through hole 14 is relatively large.

[0096] It should be noted that the area of ​​the second through hole 14 can be as follows: Figures 7-9 The area shown is larger than that of the second connecting groove 224. Of course, the area of ​​the second through hole 14 can also be smaller than that of the second connecting groove 224.

[0097] refer to Figure 8 In order to avoid excessively affecting the water inlet volume of the water heater 10 in the second state, that is, to ensure the flow rate of the water inlet channel in the second state, the connection point between the first connecting groove 223 and the first through hole 13 can be lower than the second connecting groove 224. In other words, in the second state, only liquid higher than the lower end of the second connecting groove 224 can flow into the bypass pipe 17 through the second connecting groove 224 and the second through hole 14.

[0098] Specifically, refer to Figure 9 In the second state, a portion of the first connecting groove 223 is obscured by the inner surface of the cylinder 19. The portion of the first connecting groove 223 not obscured by the inner surface of the cylinder 19 can be opposite to and communicate with the first through hole 13. (Reference) Figure 8The lower end of the first connecting groove 223, which is not obscured by the inner surface of the cylinder 19, may be lower than the second connecting groove 224. The upper end of part of the first connecting groove 223 may be as follows: Figure 8 The portion shown is higher than the lower end of the second connecting groove 224 and lower than the upper end of the second connecting groove 224. Of course, the upper end of this portion of the first connecting groove 223 may also be lower than the lower end of the second connecting groove 224.

[0099] In order to ensure that, in the second state, the portion of the first connecting groove 223 that is not obscured by the inner surface of the cylinder 19, i.e., the portion of the first connecting groove 223 opposite to the first through hole 13, is lower than the second connecting groove 224, the shape of the first connecting groove 223 can be configured as follows:

[0100] refer to Figure 5 Optionally, at least a portion of the highest point of the first connecting groove 223 may gradually tilt upwards along a preset direction. The preset direction may be the rotation direction of the valve sleeve 22 as it transitions from the first state to the second state. For example, Figure 5 The middle arrow W indicates a counter-clockwise direction. (See reference) Figure 2 The valve sleeve 22 can rotate from the first state to the second state in the W direction, i.e., counterclockwise. The upper edge of the first connecting groove 223 can gradually slope upward in the counterclockwise direction.

[0101] In order to increase the opening size of the first connecting groove 223, at least a portion of the first connecting groove 223 may be disposed on the upper part of the side wall of the valve sleeve 22, and at least a portion of the first connecting groove 223 may be disposed on the lower part of the side wall of the valve sleeve 22. For example, Figure 5 The left edge of the first connecting groove 223 can be arc-shaped, and the center of the left edge can be located on the right side of the left edge. That is, the first connecting groove 223 can be a shape symmetrical about the central axis of the valve sleeve 22, and the center of the left edge can be located on the central axis of the valve sleeve 22. The central axis of the valve sleeve 22 can be parallel to the bottom surface of the valve sleeve 22, and the distance from the upper end surface of the valve sleeve 22 to the central axis is equal to the distance from the lower end surface of the valve sleeve 22 to the central axis.

[0102] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 Optionally, to allow the valve sleeve 22 to rotate relatively stably within the cylinder 19, the outer surface of the sidewall of the valve sleeve 22 can contact the inner surface of the cylinder 19, and the outer surface of the valve sleeve 22 can be adapted to the inner surface of the cylinder 19. To allow the outer surface of the sidewall of the valve sleeve 22 to contact the inner surface of the inlet pipe 15, the upper end face of the valve sleeve 22 can be higher than the highest point of the first through hole 13 and the second through hole 14. The lower end face of the valve sleeve 22 can be lower than the lowest point of the first through hole 13 and the second through hole 14.

[0103] Continue to refer to Figures 5-8To rotate the valve sleeve 22, the valve sleeve 22 may optionally include a side wall and a top wall, with a valve stem 21 fixed to the top wall. The valve stem 21 can extend through the cover plate 18 and connect to a driver 5 located outside the cover plate 18. The driver 5 can drive the valve stem 21 to rotate, thereby causing the valve sleeve 22 to rotate. The driver 5 can communicate with the controller 7 mentioned above. The driver 5 can be a motor, which may have a motor shaft. The motor shaft can be directly connected to the valve stem 21 by welding, interference fit, coupling, etc., or it can be indirectly connected to the valve stem 21 via a reducer, etc.

[0104] To ensure stable rotation of the valve stem 21, a bushing 4 can be accommodated within the space formed by the cover plate 18 and the cylinder 19. The outer surface of the bushing 4 can be fixed to the inner surface of the cylinder 19, and the upper surface of the bushing 4 can abut against the cover plate 18. The valve stem 21 can pass through the bushing 4 and rotate relative to the bushing 4. The outer surface of the bushing 4 can be provided with a groove, and a sealing ring 8 can be accommodated between the groove and the inner surface of the cylinder 19 to achieve a seal between the bushing 4 and the inner surface of the cylinder 19.

[0105] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 To achieve axial positioning of the valve sleeve 22 within the cylinder 19, the top wall of the valve sleeve 22 can abut against the lower surface of the bushing 4. A water inlet pipe 15 can be fixed to the lower end of the cylinder 19. The water inlet pipe 15 can be coaxially arranged with the cylinder 19, and the diameter of the water inlet pipe 15 can be smaller than the diameter of the cylinder 19, so that the inner surface of the water inlet pipe 15 can be closer to the axis of the cylinder 19 than the inner surface of the cylinder 19, thereby forming a positioning groove for limiting the lower end face of the valve sleeve 22.

[0106] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the second type of one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 provided in the embodiments of this application in the first state. Figure 11 for Figure 10 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 in its second state. (Reference) Figure 10 and Figure 11 In another example, the first through hole 13 and the second through hole 14 are located at different axial positions on the side wall of the cylinder 19. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The example shown is that the first through hole 13 is located at the lower end of the cylinder 19, and the second through hole 14 is located at the upper end of the cylinder 19.

[0107] The valve sleeve 22 is slidably disposed within the accommodating space formed by the cylinder 19 and the cover plate 18, and the valve sleeve 22 can slide along the axial direction of the cylinder 19. The interior of the valve sleeve 22 may have a central hole 221, which is opposite to and communicates with the open end 12 of the valve body 1. The sidewall of the valve sleeve 22 may have a first connecting groove 223 and a second connecting groove 224 communicating with the central hole 221. The first connecting groove 223 and the second connecting groove 224 may have a predetermined distance in the axial direction of the valve sleeve 22. The first connecting groove 223 can be used to connect to the first through hole 13, and the second connecting groove 224 can be used to connect to the second through hole 14.

[0108] Additionally, the valve sleeve 22 may include a top wall and side walls. A valve stem 21 may be connected to the top wall of the valve sleeve 22. The valve stem 21 can extend through the cover plate 18 and move axially relative to the cover plate 18 along the cylinder 19. The portion of the valve stem 21 located outside the cover plate 18 can be connected to the actuator 5. The actuator 5 can communicate with the controller 7 mentioned above. The actuator 5 may be a linear motor, cylinder, or other device capable of outputting axial force. The actuator 5 may also be a rotary motor or a conversion mechanism that converts torque into linear motion.

[0109] In another possible implementation of a connecting slot Figure 12 This is a transverse sectional view of the third type of one-inlet, two-outlet valve provided in the embodiments of this application in its first state. Figure 13 for Figure 10 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state. (Reference) Figure 12 and Figure 13 At least a portion of the valve sleeve 22 may have a semi-annular cross-sectional shape. A central hole 221 communicating with the open end 12 may be formed on the inner surface of the valve sleeve 22. The valve sleeve 22 may have a first circumferential end face 225 and a second circumferential end face 226; that is, one circumferential end of the valve sleeve 22 may have the first end face 225, and the other circumferential end of the valve sleeve 22 may have the second end face 226. (Connecting groove) Figure 12 and Figure 13 (Not shown in the figure) It can also be formed between the first end face 225 and the second end face 226 of the valve sleeve 22.

[0110] The circumference of the inner surface between the second end of the first through hole 13 of the cylinder 19 and the first end of the second through hole 14 of the cylinder 19 can be smaller than the circumference of the outer surface of the valve sleeve 22 (that is, the circumference between the first end face 225 and the second end face 226 of the valve sleeve 22).

[0111] Specifically, the outer surface of the valve sleeve 22 can be attached to the inner surface of the cylinder 19 and can rotate relative to the inner surface of the cylinder 19. When the valve sleeve 22 is in such a position... Figure 12In the first state shown, the valve sleeve 22 may block a small portion of the first through hole 13 or not block the first through hole 13, that is, the projection of the valve sleeve 22 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 on the cylinder 19 does not fall into the first through hole 13 or only a small portion falls into the first through hole 13, so that the opening of the first through hole 13 is larger; the valve sleeve 22 may block at least a portion of the second through hole 14, so that the opening of the second through hole 14 is smaller.

[0112] When valve sleeve 22 is in such a position Figure 13 In the second state shown, the valve sleeve 22 can block at least part of the first through hole 13, that is, the projection of the valve sleeve 22 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 on the cylinder 19 falls at least partially within the first through hole 13, so that the opening of the first through hole 13 is smaller; the valve sleeve 22 can block a small part of the second through hole 14 or not block the second through hole 14, that is, the projection of the valve sleeve 22 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 on the cylinder 19 does not fall within the second through hole 14 or only a small part falls within the second through hole 14, so that the opening of the second through hole 14 is larger.

[0113] The following is for reference. Figures 14-28 This describes a one-inlet, two-outlet valve that can change the three openings. Using a one-inlet, two-outlet valve that can change the three openings can have the advantage of high flow regulation efficiency.

[0114] The similarity between the one-in-two-out valve with two openings described above and the one-in-two-out valve with three openings described below lies in the fact that the valve core assembly 2 may include a valve sleeve 22, which can change the opening degree of the first through hole 13 and the second through hole 14 by rotating within the cylinder 19. The difference lies in the fact that the valve core assembly 2 may also include a valve stem 21, which can pass through the open end 12 of the valve body 1 and change the opening degree of the open end 12 of the valve body 1 by sliding along the axis of the cylinder 19.

[0115] Figure 19 for Figure 14 The diagram shows a longitudinal sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 in its first state. Figure 21 for Figure 14 The diagram shows a longitudinal sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 in its second state. (Reference) Figure 19 and Figure 21 The valve stem 21 can be inserted through the cylinder 19 along its axial direction. Part of the valve stem 21 can be located outside the cover plate 18 for connection with the actuator 5; another part of the valve stem 21 can be located inside the cylinder 19 and inserted through the opening end 12 of the valve body 1, with the outer surface of this part of the valve stem 21 forming a flow channel between it and the inner surface of the opening end 12 of the valve body 1 for liquid flow. The size of this flow channel can be changed during the axial movement of the valve stem 21 along the cylinder 19.

[0116] For example, Figure 19 and Figure 21In this configuration, a baffle plate 24 can be fixed to the valve stem 21, and an annular baffle platform 32 can be fixed to the inner surface of the open end 12 of the valve body 1, i.e., the interior of the baffle platform 32 can have a central hole 221. During the transition of the valve stem 21 from the first state to the second state, the flow path of the valve body 1 decreases as it moves downward. To achieve this trend, at least one of the outer surface of the baffle plate 24 and the inner surface of the baffle platform 32 has an inclined surface. In one example, refer to... Figure 19 and Figure 21 The center hole 221 of the baffle platform 32 may include an inverted conical section, the diameter of which may be along the end face near the opening end 12 of the valve body 1 (i.e., Figure 19 and Figure 21 The lower end face of the cylinder 19 gradually decreases in size, so that the distance between the interceptor plate 24 and the central hole 221 gradually decreases as the interceptor plate 24 gradually approaches the end face of the opening end 12 of the valve body 1. Optionally, the central hole 221 may also include a cylindrical section, which may be closer to the end face of the opening end 12 of the valve body 1 than the inverted conical section, and the diameter of the cylindrical section may be equal to the minimum diameter of the inverted conical section. In the second state, part of the interceptor plate 24 may be located within the cylindrical section to extend the length of the smaller flow channel.

[0117] In another example, the interceptor plate 24 may be coaxial with the valve stem 21, and at least a portion of the diameter of the interceptor plate 24 gradually decreases along the direction close to the end face of the opening end 12 of the valve body 1. In the first state, the smaller diameter end of the interceptor plate 24 may be located within the central hole 221 of the baffle platform 32. During the transition from the first state to the second state, the larger diameter end of the interceptor plate 24 gradually falls into the central hole 221 of the baffle platform 32, so as to gradually reduce the distance between the interceptor plate 24 and the central hole 221 of the baffle platform 32.

[0118] Figure 22 for Figure 21 The cross-sectional view at mounting plate 31 shown is for reference. Figure 21 and Figure 22 To ensure stable movement of the valve stem 21 relative to the valve body 1, an optional mounting plate 31 may be fixed inside the open end 12 of the valve body 1. The mounting plate 31 may have a limiting hole for the valve stem 21 to pass through, and part of the valve stem 21 may slide within the limiting hole. In addition, a flow channel for liquid to flow may be provided between the mounting plate 31 and the cylinder 19 or the baffle 32.

[0119] To simplify control, a single actuator 5 can be used to both move the valve stem 21 and rotate the valve sleeve 22. (Reference) Figure 19 and Figure 21Optionally, the valve stem 21 may include a first end and a second end. The first end of the valve stem 21 may be threadedly connected to the valve body 1, so that when the actuator 5 drives the valve stem 21 to rotate, the valve stem 21 can rotate while moving along the axial direction of the valve stem 21. The second end of the valve stem 21 may be connected to the valve sleeve 22, so that the valve stem 21 can drive the valve sleeve 22 to rotate when it moves. Of course, in order to facilitate the valve stem 21 changing the opening end 12 of the valve body 1, the second end of the valve stem 21 may pass through the valve sleeve 22 and pass through the opening end 12 of the valve body 1.

[0120] Additionally, to ensure the diameter of the valve stem 21 is smaller than the diameter of the cylinder 19, facilitating the installation of the valve sleeve 22, a bushing 4 may be accommodated within the receiving space formed by the cylinder 19 and the cover plate 18. The bushing 4 may include a mounting portion 41. The outer surface of the mounting portion 41 may be fixed to the inner surface of the cylinder 19, and the interior of the mounting portion 41 may have a threaded hole for threaded connection with the first end of the valve stem 21. To prevent liquid leakage from the receiving space, a sealing ring 8 may be provided between the mounting portion 41 and the inner surface of the cylinder 19. Furthermore, to facilitate the rotation of the valve sleeve 22 within the cylinder 19, refer to... Figure 19 and Figure 21 The bushing 4 may further include a limiting portion 42, which may be coaxially arranged with the mounting portion 41 and located below the mounting portion 41. The diameter of the limiting portion 42 may be smaller than the diameter of the mounting portion 41, so that there may be a certain gap between the limiting portion 42 and the inner surface of the cylinder 19. The valve sleeve 22 may be accommodated within this gap. That is, the valve sleeve 22 may be sleeved on the outside of the limiting portion 42 and may be embedded in the inside of the cylinder 19 to limit the radial displacement of the valve sleeve 22.

[0121] In addition, the valve stem 21 can drive the valve sleeve 22 to move in several possible ways:

[0122] In one possible implementation, the valve sleeve 22 can be as follows: Figures 15-21 The movement is shown relative to valve stem 21. (Reference) Figures 15-21 A mounting rod 23 may be fixed to the side wall of the valve stem 21, and the mounting rod 23 may be arranged radially along the valve stem 21. The side wall of the valve sleeve 22 may have a mounting groove 227 that mates with the mounting rod 23. Since the valve stem 21 rotates and moves, the mounting groove 227 is approximately L-shaped, and one end of the mounting groove 227 may have an opening.

[0123] During the process of the valve stem 21 driving the valve sleeve 22 to rotate via the mounting rod 23 and the mounting groove 227, the valve stem 21 may have the following characteristics: Figure 15 The first position shown and as Figure 17 The second position shown. (Reference) Figure 16The mounting groove 227 may include a first portion 2271 and a second portion 2272. The first portion 2271 may extend axially along the valve sleeve 22, and the second portion 2272 may extend circumferentially along the valve sleeve 22, with one end of the second portion 2272 opposite to the first portion 2271 being open.

[0124] refer to Figure 19 In the first state, the first through hole 13 is at a larger opening, the second through hole 14 is at a smaller opening, and the open end 12 of the valve body 1 is at a larger opening. The valve stem 21 is... Figure 19 Exercise to Figure 21 During the process, the valve stem 21 can rotate clockwise while descending, and the mounting rod 23 is initially in the position... Figure 15 The first position shown allows the valve stem 21 to drive the valve sleeve 22 to rotate and descend simultaneously, thus forming... Figure 20 and Figure 21 The opening of the second through hole 14 is shown. When the lower end face of the valve sleeve 22 abuts against the limiting part 42 inside the valve body 1, the mounting rod 23 can be moved from... Figure 15 The first position shown indicates clockwise rotation, and the rod slides out of the opening of the second portion 2272 of the mounting groove 227. The mounting rod 23 is... Figure 17 The second position shown moves to Figure 15 After the first position shown, to form Figure 20 The location of the interceptor plate 24 is shown.

[0125] Similarly, in valve stem 21, Figure 21 Rotate to Figure 19 During the process, the valve stem 21 can rotate counterclockwise while rising, causing the mounting rod 23 to move from... Figure 17 The second position shown moves to Figure 15 The first position is shown. After the mounting rod 23 moves to the first position, the valve stem 21 continues to rotate counterclockwise, causing the valve sleeve 22 to rotate counterclockwise and rise simultaneously, thus forming... Figure 18 and Figure 19 The opening of the second through hole 14 is shown.

[0126] It should be noted that the limiting part 42 mentioned above can limit the lowest position of the valve sleeve 22 rotation so that the limiting part 42 can support the valve sleeve 22 when the mounting rod 23 is disengaged from the mounting groove 227 of the valve sleeve 22. Figure 19 and Figure 21 In the middle, the upper end surface of the water baffle 32 can be higher than the first through hole 13, so as to support the valve sleeve 22.

[0127] In another possible implementation where the valve stem 21 drives the valve sleeve 22, the valve sleeve 22 can be as follows: Figures 23-28The valve stem 21 is fixed to the valve sleeve 22. The second end of the valve stem 21 can pass through the valve sleeve 22 and be fixed to it. The fixing method between the valve stem 21 and the valve sleeve 22 can be a non-removable connection such as welding or bonding, or a detachable connection such as a snap-fit ​​connection or a threaded connection. For example, Figure 23 and Figure 24 In the valve sleeve 22, the side wall may be provided with a mounting groove 227, which may have a downward-facing opening. A mounting rod 23 may be fixed to the side wall of the valve stem 21, and the mounting rod 23 may engage with the mounting groove 227. For a stable connection between the valve stem 21 and the valve sleeve 22, there may be at least two mounting rods 23, which may be evenly distributed around the outer periphery of the valve stem 21. Figure 23 and Figure 24 The example is shown with two mounting rods 23.

[0128] It should be noted that the valve sleeve 22 can be configured as described above. That is, the valve sleeve 22 may have a central hole 221 inside, and the side wall of the valve sleeve 22 may have a communicating groove 222 communicating with the central hole 221. The difference between this and the valve sleeve 22 of the one-in-two-out valve described above, which changes the opening degree of the two openings, is that… Figures 15-21 The mounting groove 227 on the side wall of the valve sleeve 22 shown needs to have an opening, therefore the cross-sectional shape of the side wall of the valve sleeve 22 needs to be semi-annular. That is, the circumference of the inner surface between the second end of the first through hole 13 of the cylinder 19 and the first end of the second through hole 14 of the cylinder 19 can be smaller than the circumference of the outer surface of the valve sleeve 22 (i.e., the circumference between the first end face 225 and the second end face 226 of the valve sleeve 22). Furthermore, refer to... Figure 18 and Figure 19 In the first state, the mounting groove 227 can act as a communicating groove 222 communicating with the second through hole 14. Additionally, Figures 23-28 The lower end face of the second through hole shown is higher than the upper end face of the first through hole; therefore, it can be referenced. Figure 24 , Figure 26 as well as Figure 28 The valve sleeve has two connecting slots arranged along the axial direction of the valve sleeve. The upper connecting slot can be used to connect to the second through hole, and the lower connecting slot can be used to connect to the first through hole.

[0129] It is worth noting that, Figure 19 , Figure 21 , Figure 26 as well as Figure 28 The hollow arrow shown indicates the direction of liquid flow. Figure 19 , Figure 21 , Figure 26 as well as Figure 28Taking the first through hole 13 as an example, which can also be the inlet of a valve with one inlet and two outlets, the open end 12 of the valve body 1 as the first outlet of the valve with one inlet and two outlets, and the second through hole 14 as the second outlet of the valve with one inlet and two outlets. Of course, the first through hole 13 can also be the first outlet of the valve with one inlet and two outlets, the second through hole 14 can also be the second outlet of the valve with one inlet and two outlets, and the open end 12 of the valve body 1 can be the inlet of the valve with one inlet and two outlets.

[0130] It should be noted that the structure of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve mentioned above can also be in a third state, which can be a state between the first state and the second state.

[0131] Example 2

[0132] The water heater 10 provided in this application embodiment may include a water heater body and a water inlet device as provided in the above embodiment. The water heater body may have a water inlet end 101, a hot water end 102, and a water outlet end 103. The water heater 10 body includes a water inlet end 101, a hot water end 102, and a water outlet end 103. The water inlet device may include a valve body 1 and a valve core assembly 2. The valve body 1 has a water inlet channel and a bypass channel formed therein. The water inlet channel may communicate with the water inlet end, and the bypass channel may communicate with the hot water end.

[0133] The terms "upper" and "lower" are used to describe the relative positions of the various structures in the accompanying drawings. They are only for clarity of description and are not intended to limit the scope of implementation of this application. Any changes or adjustments to the relative positions without substantially altering the technical content shall also be considered within the scope of implementation of this application.

[0134] It should be noted that, 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 indicates 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 indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0135] Furthermore, in this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," 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 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. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0136] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this disclosure. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0137] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A water inlet device, characterized in that, include: The valve body has an axial closed end and an open end. The side wall of the valve body between the open end and the closed end is provided with a first through hole and a second through hole. The first through hole and the second through hole are respectively located at different positions in the circumference of the valve body. A valve core assembly, at least a portion of which is located within the valve body and movable relative to the valve body, the valve core assembly being used to change the opening degree of the first through hole, the second through hole, and the open end; The valve core assembly includes: A valve sleeve, located within the valve body, has a central hole. The central hole is opposite to and communicates with the open end. The side wall of the valve sleeve has a connecting groove. The connecting groove is used to connect the first through hole and the central hole to form a water inlet channel. The connecting groove is also used to connect the first through hole, the central hole, and the second through hole to form a bypass channel. A valve stem passes through the valve body and is threadedly connected to the valve body; at least a portion of the valve stem passes through the valve sleeve and through the open end. The valve stem is connected to the valve sleeve and is used to drive the valve sleeve to move. The flow rates of the inlet channel and the bypass channel are configured to change with the rotation of the valve sleeve. The valve stem has a mounting rod on its side wall, and the valve sleeve has a mounting groove on its first side wall with an opening. The mounting rod slides in the mounting groove and has a first position in which it is embedded in the mounting groove and rotates the valve sleeve by driving the mounting groove to rotate. The mounting rod also has a second position in which it slides out of the mounting groove and abuts against the end face of the valve sleeve.

2. The water inlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A flow channel is formed between the valve stem and the inner surface of the opening end, and the flow rate of the flow channel is configured to vary with the axial movement of the valve stem along the opening end.

3. The water inlet device according to claim 2, characterized in that, At least part of the valve sleeve's sidewall is semi-annular, and the circumference of the inner surface between the second end of the first through hole and the first end of the second through hole is less than the circumference of the outer surface of the semi-annular valve sleeve's sidewall.

4. The water inlet device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The lower end of the second through hole is higher than the upper end of the first through hole; there are two connecting grooves, which are arranged at the top and bottom, with the upper connecting groove used to connect the second through hole and the lower connecting groove used to connect the first through hole.

5. The water inlet device according to any one of claims 2-4, characterized in that, The valve body is provided with a bushing, which includes a mounting part and a limiting part arranged in sequence. The mounting part is embedded in the valve body and fixed to the inner surface of the valve body. The mounting part has a threaded hole that is threadedly connected to the valve stem. The limiting part is further away from the closed end of the valve body than the mounting part. The limiting part has a preset distance from the inner surface of the valve body and has a through hole for the valve stem to pass through. The valve sleeve is rotatably positioned within the preset spacing.

6. The water inlet device according to claim 5, characterized in that, A sealing ring is provided between the mounting part and the inner surface of the valve body.

7. The water inlet device according to any one of claims 2-4, characterized in that, The inner surface of the opening end has an inclined surface for forming the flow channel and / or the outer surface of the valve stem has an inclined surface for forming the flow channel.

8. The water inlet device according to any one of claims 2-4, characterized in that, A positioning plate is fixed inside the opening end. The positioning plate has a central hole, and a flow channel for liquid to flow through is formed between the positioning plate and the inner surface of the opening end. At least a portion of the valve stem slides within the central bore.

9. A water heater, characterized in that, The device includes a water heater body and a water inlet device as described in any one of claims 1-8. The water heater body has a water inlet end and a hot water end. The water inlet device includes a valve body and a valve core assembly. A water inlet channel and a bypass channel are formed in the valve body. The water inlet channel is connected to the water inlet end, and the bypass channel is connected to the hot water end.

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