Water tank shell, water tank and electric water heater

Abstract

The application discloses a water tank shell, a water tank and an electric water heater. The water tank shell is internally provided with a flat-structure inner container, the thickness dimension of the shell is smaller than the length dimension and the height dimension of the shell, and the back of the shell forms a mounting surface. The cross section of the shell perpendicular to the length or height direction has sequentially connected first, second, third and fourth line segments, the first line segment is oppositely arranged with the third line segment, and the second line segment is oppositely arranged with the fourth line segment. The first line segment is arranged on the mounting surface, and the curvature of the first line segment is smaller than the curvature of the second line segment and the fourth line segment.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application belongs to the technical field of household appliances, and particularly relates to a shell for a water tank, a water tank and an electric water heater. BACKGROUND

[0002] At present, water heaters are commonly used household appliances in people's daily life, and the water heaters include electric water heaters, electric water heaters, heat pump water heaters and solar water heaters. The electric water heaters are widely used due to their convenient use. Among them, the electric water heaters can be divided into storage type electric water heaters and instant type electric water heaters according to the heating power, and the storage type electric water heaters are purchased and used by more families due to the configuration of the water tank, the large water outlet and the stable water temperature.

[0003] For a conventional storage type electric water heater, the conventional storage type electric water heater usually includes a water tank, an electric heating component and an electric control board. The water tank includes a shell and an inner container, the inner container is arranged in the shell, and a thermal insulation layer is formed between the shell and the inner container to improve the thermal insulation performance of the water tank. The electric heating component is inserted into the inner container, and the electric heating component generates heat to heat the water in the inner container when electrified.

[0004] However, since the water in the water tank is heated, the inner container forms a pressure container. In order to meet the design requirements of the pressure container, the conventional water tank usually has a cylindrical structure. This causes the electric water heater to occupy a large space in the room, resulting in poor user experience. In view of this, how to design a water heater technology that reduces the indoor space occupation and improves the user experience is a technical problem to be solved by the present application. SUMMARY

[0005] The present application provides a shell for a water tank, a water tank and an electric water heater, which reduces the indoor space occupied by the electric water heater and improves the user experience.

[0006] In order to achieve the above technical purpose, the present application adopts the following technical scheme:

[0007] In one aspect, the present application provides a shell for a water tank, the shell is used to install a flat structure inner container, the thickness dimension of the shell is smaller than the length dimension and the height dimension of the shell, and the back of the shell forms a mounting surface; the cross section of the shell perpendicular to the length or height direction has a first line segment, a second line segment, a third line segment and a fourth line segment connected in sequence, the first line segment and the third line segment are arranged opposite to each other, and the second line segment and the fourth line segment are arranged opposite to each other; wherein the first line segment is arranged on the mounting surface, and the curvature of the first line segment is smaller than the curvature of the second line segment and the fourth line segment.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present application, the first line segment is a straight segment.

[0009] In one embodiment of this application, the mounting surface is a planar structure.

[0010] In one embodiment of this application, a bracket is provided on the mounting surface.

[0011] In one embodiment of this application, a recessed structure is provided on the mounting surface, and the bracket is located in the recessed structure.

[0012] In one embodiment of this application, the curvature of the third line segment is less than the curvature of the second line segment and the fourth line segment.

[0013] In one embodiment of this application, the curvature of the first line segment is less than the curvature of the third line segment.

[0014] In one embodiment of this application, the cross-section of the outer shell perpendicular to the thickness direction is circular or elliptical.

[0015] In one embodiment of this application, the cross-section of the outer shell perpendicular to the thickness direction is square or rectangular.

[0016] In one embodiment of this application, the four corners of the cross section of the outer shell perpendicular to the thickness direction are set as chamfered structures.

[0017] In one embodiment of this application, the ratio of the thickness dimension to the length dimension of the outer shell is in the range of 1:(1.4-2.5); and / or, the ratio of the thickness dimension to the height dimension of the outer shell is in the range of 1:(1.4-2.5).

[0018] In one embodiment of this application, the second line segment or the fourth line segment is a continuous and smooth curve structure; or, the second line segment or the fourth line segment is a curve structure composed of multiple line segments with different curvatures.

[0019] In another aspect, the present invention provides a water tank including an inner liner having a flat structure, and an outer shell for the water tank described above, wherein the inner liner is located within the outer shell, and an insulation layer is provided between the inner liner and the outer shell.

[0020] In another aspect, the present invention provides an electric water heater including the aforementioned water tank.

[0021] By designing the thickness of the outer casing to be less than its height and length, a flat design is achieved, reducing the usable indoor space occupied by the water heater and thus improving space utilization and user experience. Furthermore, the smaller curvature of the first segment on the back of the casing allows it to fit snugly against the wall, further maximizing space utilization. The larger curvature of the second and fourth segments optimizes the overall aesthetic appearance. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0023] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the water tank in the electric water heater of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a second schematic diagram of the structure of the water tank in the electric water heater of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the water tank in the electric water heater of the present invention, according to Embodiment 1.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the water tank in Embodiment 2 of the electric water heater of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the water tank in Embodiment 2 of the electric water heater of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the water tank in Embodiment 2 of the electric water heater of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A magnified view of a portion of region A in the middle;

[0030] Figure 8 for Figure 6 A magnified view of a portion of region B in the middle;

[0031] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the front panel structure in Embodiment 2 of the water tank of the electric water heater of the present invention.

[0032] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0033] Outer shell 1;

[0034] Rear shell 11, first screw hole 111, mounting platform 112, second positioning groove 113, stepped surface 114, retaining rib 115;

[0035] Liner plate 12, first through hole 121, first snap-fit ​​part 122, second screw hole 123, first guide groove 124, second guide groove 125, positioning rib 126, extension edge 127;

[0036] Card slot 1221, first positioning slot 1222;

[0037] Front shell 13, second snap-fit ​​part 130, front panel 132, housing 131, second through hole 133, groove 134, slot 135, second tongue 136, extension part 137;

[0038] Claw 1301, First insertion tongue 1302;

[0039] Inner liner 2;

[0040] First line segment a, second line segment b, third line segment c, fourth line segment d;

[0041] Hanger 100, supporting protrusion 101 and recessed structure 102. Detailed Implementation

[0042] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0043] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," which indicate directions or positional relationships, are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These are merely for ease of description and do not indicate or imply that the device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0044] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly 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 connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0045] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" the second feature includes the first feature 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 includes the first feature 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.

[0046] The following disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples; such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. In addition, examples of various specific processes and materials are provided in this invention, but those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0047] An electric water heater is a type of water heater that uses electricity as its primary energy source. The high-temperature heat generated after the power is turned on directly heats the water stored in the water heater to produce hot water.

[0048] Electric water heaters typically consist of a water tank, an electric heating element, and an electronic control board. The water tank has a storage cavity to store water to be heated. The electric heating element is inserted into the storage cavity of the water tank. The electronic control board is used to control the electric heating element to operate by turning the power on and off, so that the water in the tank is heated to the set temperature.

[0049] For the water tank of an electric water heater, the tank generally consists of an outer shell and an inner tank, with an insulation layer between them. The outer shell is usually made of plastic to meet the requirements of aesthetic and diverse designs; the inner tank can be made of metal or plastic, depending on the needs.

[0050] In addition, the insulation layer formed between the outer shell and the inner liner is commonly made of materials such as asbestos, sponge, foam plastic, and polyurethane foam. In conventional technology, foaming is usually used to form the insulation layer in order to achieve good insulation effect.

[0051] For water tanks with metal inner liner, corrosion can easily occur inside due to water quality. Therefore, magnesium rods are installed on the water tank and inserted into the water storage cavity inside the tank.

[0052] Magnesium has the lowest electrochemical potential among metals and is physiologically non-toxic. Therefore, it is ideal for making magnesium rods to protect the inner liner. The size of the magnesium rod directly affects the duration and effectiveness of the protection; the larger the magnesium rod, the better the protection and the longer the protection time.

[0053] The water tank is also equipped with an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe. The inlet pipe is used to deliver cold water into the water storage cavity formed inside the water tank, while the hot water in the water storage cavity is output from the outlet pipe.

[0054] For electric heating components, electric heating methods such as electric heating wires, magnetic energy, or silicon tube heating can be used to heat the water stored in the water storage chamber.

[0055] The control board is used to receive detection signals from relevant sensors (such as water temperature sensors and flow sensors) and control the power supply to and from the electric heating components.

[0056] When the electric water heater is working, the electric control board controls the electric heating element to be powered on and heated. When the water temperature in the tank reaches the set value, the electric control board controls the electric heating element to be powered off.

[0057] The present invention relates to a housing for an electric water heater. It should be noted that the housing of the present invention can be installed on a vertically extending wall or on a horizontally extending wall.

[0058] For ease of description, the following description uses the example of the outer casing being installed on a vertical wall to illustrate the structure of the outer casing.

[0059] Example 1, such as Figures 1-3 As shown, the outer casing 1 adopts a flat design to reduce the effective indoor space occupied by the electric water heater. The overall thickness of the outer casing 1 is reduced, and the dimensions of the height and / or length of the outer casing 1 are increased, thereby meeting the volume requirements of the electric water heater.

[0060] Correspondingly, the inner liner 2 inside the shell 1, which adopts a flat design, can also adopt a flat design, thereby making full use of the internal space of the shell 1 to obtain an inner liner 2 with a sufficiently large volume.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the ratio of the thickness to the length of the outer casing 1 is in the range of 1:(1.4-2.5); and / or, the ratio of the thickness to the height of the outer casing 1 is in the range of 1:(1.4-2.5).

[0062] Specifically, regarding the thickness of the outer shell 1, the thickness dimension needs to be smaller than the length and height dimensions to meet the requirements of the flattened design of the outer shell 1. At the same time, the interior of the outer shell 1 also needs to have sufficient space to accommodate the inner liner 2, while simultaneously meeting the volume requirements of the inner liner 2 and the design requirements of the inner liner 2 as a pressure vessel.

[0063] Therefore, the thickness of the outer shell 1 needs to be within a reasonable ratio to its length and height. This ensures both the flat design requirements and the installation requirements of the inner liner 2.

[0064] In some embodiments, in order to meet the requirements of flat design while ensuring convenient installation and fixation, the thickness of the outer shell 1 is smaller than the length and height of the outer shell 1, and the back of the outer shell 1 forms a mounting surface; the cross section of the outer shell 1 perpendicular to the length or height direction has a first line segment a, a second line segment b, a third line segment c, and a fourth line segment d connected in sequence, the first line segment a and the third line segment c are arranged opposite each other, and the second line segment b and the fourth line segment d are arranged opposite each other; wherein, the first line segment a is arranged on the mounting surface, and the curvature of the first line segment a is smaller than the curvature of the second line segment b and the fourth line segment d.

[0065] Specifically, the outer shell 1 adopts a flat design, with its thickness being smaller than its height and length. This allows for full utilization of the height and length dimensions to meet the water storage capacity requirements of the inner tank 2 of the electric water heater. Simultaneously, the overall thickness of the outer shell 1 is relatively thin, and the distance it protrudes from the wall is minimal, thus reducing the amount of usable indoor space.

[0066] In addition, as a household appliance, electric water heaters also need to meet the requirements of aesthetic design. Therefore, the curved transition design of the outer shell 1 is an important measure to optimize the appearance.

[0067] Regarding the cross-sectional shape of the outer shell 1 perpendicular to the length and height directions, the curvature of the first line segment a arranged on the back of the outer shell 1 is small, so that the outer shell 1 can better fit the surface of the wall, thereby reducing the thickness of the outer shell 1.

[0068] As for the second line segment b and the fourth line segment d, which are connected to both ends of the first line segment a, since the second line segment b and the fourth line segment d are distributed on both sides of the outer shell, it is necessary to achieve a smooth transition between the sides and the front of the outer shell 1 to achieve a good appearance. Therefore, the curvature of the second line segment b and the fourth line segment d is relatively large.

[0069] Preferably, the first line segment a is a basically straight line segment to ensure that the mounting surface formed on the back of the housing 1 is a planar structure, thereby enabling the housing 1 to be hung flat against the surface of the wall.

[0070] As for the shell 1 placed vertically on the ground, the non-planar structure of the back mounting surface of the shell 1 allows the shell 1 to fit tightly against the wall surface on the corresponding side.

[0071] In addition, for the third line segment c located in front of the outer shell 1, in order to meet the requirements of the outer appearance arc shape, the curvature of the third line segment c can be appropriately increased. However, under the premise of flat design, the curvature of the third line segment c is less than the curvature of the second line segment b and the fourth line segment d.

[0072] Specifically, the third line segment c can be an outward-protruding arc-shaped structure, thus forming an arc-shaped structure on the front of the outer shell 1. The curvature of the third line segment c is less than that of the second line segment b and the fourth line segment d. This ensures that the thickness of the outer shell 1 remains within a reasonable range while meeting the arc-shaped design requirements, thereby achieving the flattening design.

[0073] The curvature of the third line segment c can be greater than that of the first line segment a, so as to ensure that the back of the outer shell 1 meets the installation requirements, while the front of the outer shell 1 meets the requirements of the appearance optimization design.

[0074] In the actual design and manufacturing process of the outer shell 1, for the second line segment b and the fourth line segment d, the second line segment b or the fourth line segment d can be a continuous and smooth curve structure. Similarly, the second line segment b or the fourth line segment d can be a curve composed of multiple line segments with different curvatures, thereby achieving a smooth transition between the front and back of the outer shell 1 to meet the surface design requirements of the outer shell 1. When the second line segment b or the fourth line segment d is composed of multiple line segments with different curvatures, the curvature of each line segment can be greater than the curvature of the first line segment a; or, the curvature of each line segment can be equal to or less than the curvature of the first line segment a. However, adjacent line segments are inclined to each other to form an angle, so that the overall curvature of the second line segment b or the fourth line segment d formed by connecting multiple line segments can be greater than the curvature of the first line segment a. The specific curvature of the second line segment b or the fourth line segment d, and the method of using single or multiple line segments, are not limited here.

[0075] In some embodiments, since the outer casing 1 adopts a flat design, the overall front shape of the outer casing 1 can be arbitrarily designed according to the product design requirements. The front outline of the outer casing 1 can be circular, elliptical, square, or rectangular, among other shapes. Examples are given below.

[0076] In one embodiment, the cross-section of the outer shell 1 perpendicular to the thickness direction is circular or elliptical.

[0077] Specifically, the front shape of the outer shell 1 adopts a circular or elliptical arc outline shape. The circular or elliptical cross-section shape of the outer shell 1 can present a smooth appearance design effect to optimize the visual effect of the product.

[0078] In another embodiment, the cross-section of the outer shell 1 perpendicular to the thickness direction is square or rectangular.

[0079] Specifically, the front shape of the outer shell 1 adopts a polygonal outline shape such as a square or rectangle to achieve an appearance design effect with a specific geometric shape, thereby enriching the appearance variety of the product and meeting the needs of different groups of people for product appearance.

[0080] To meet the design requirements for a smooth structural transition, chamfered corners can be added to the four corners of the cross-section of the outer shell 1 perpendicular to the thickness direction. Specifically, the square or rectangular cross-section formed by the cross-section of the outer shell 1 is chamfered at the four corners, making the overall appearance of the outer shell 1 more aesthetically pleasing.

[0081] The aforementioned cross-sectional profile design for the outer shell 1 satisfies both the flattening design requirement of the outer shell 1 and the aesthetic requirements of the product's appearance. The inner liner 2 within the outer shell 1 can store sufficient water for user use, while the outer shell 1 presents a more rounded appearance, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the interior.

[0082] In other embodiments, for the flat-designed housing 1, in order to meet the requirements of suspension installation, a hanger 100 is provided on the mounting surface of the housing 1.

[0083] Specifically, the bracket 100 is arranged on the back of the housing 1, and the housing 1 can be suspended and installed on the wall using the bracket 100.

[0084] To facilitate installation by operators, the mounting bracket 100 is located in the upper part of the outer casing 1. This places the center of gravity of the electric water heater below the mounting bracket 100, allowing the outer casing 1 to be hung more securely and reliably on the wall.

[0085] Meanwhile, in order to ensure that the outer casing 1 is in a relatively upright state after being suspended, a support protrusion 101 can be provided on the mounting surface of the outer casing 1. After the outer casing 1 is hung on the wall by the bracket 100, the support protrusion 101 will abut against the surface of the wall to support the bottom of the outer casing 1. With the help of the bracket 100 and the support protrusion 101, the outer casing 1 can be kept in a basically upright state.

[0086] In one embodiment, in order to allow the housing 1 to be installed closer to the wall surface, a recessed structure 102 may be provided on the mounting surface, and the bracket 100 is located in the groove 134.

[0087] Specifically, during wall mounting, after the weighing hook is opened and installed on the wall in the user's home, the bracket 100 on the back of the outer casing 1 is hung on the hook. Since the bracket 100 is located entirely in the groove 134, the back of the outer casing 1 can be closer to the wall surface, thereby minimizing the space occupied by the electric water heater in the thickness direction.

[0088] By designing the thickness of the outer casing to be less than its height and length, a flattened design is achieved, reducing the usable indoor space occupied by the water heater and thus improving space utilization and user experience. Furthermore, the smaller curvature of the first segment on the back of the casing allows it to fit snugly against the wall, further enhancing space utilization. The larger curvature of the second and fourth segments optimizes the overall aesthetic appearance.

[0089] Based on the above embodiment 1, the present invention also has the following structural design for the outer shell 1.

[0090] Example 2, as follows Figures 4-9 As shown, the outer casing 1 adopts a flat design and an overall curved shape to achieve a good appearance. To achieve a screwless design from the front, the outer casing 1 adopts the following structural design.

[0091] The housing 1 includes:

[0092] The rear cover 11 has a first screw hole 111 on its edge, and the back of the rear cover 11 forms a mounting surface.

[0093] The liner 12 has a first through hole 121 on its edge and a first snap-fit ​​part 122 on its outer surface.

[0094] The front shell 13 has a second snap-fit ​​portion 130 on its inner surface;

[0095] The liner 12 is connected to the rear shell 11, the screw passes through the first through hole 121 and is threaded into the corresponding first screw hole 111, the front shell 13 covers the liner 12, and the first snap-fit ​​part 122 is connected to the corresponding second snap-fit ​​part 130.

[0096] The rear shell 11 and the liner 12 in the outer shell 1 are connected by screws, forming an installation cavity for installing the inner liner. The screw connection between the rear shell 11 and the liner 12 provides sufficient structural strength to meet the structural strength requirements for the subsequent foaming of the insulation layer between the outer shell 1 and the inner liner.

[0097] The connection process between the rear shell 11 and the liner 12 is as follows: after the rear shell 11 and the liner 12 are joined together, the first through hole 121 is aligned with the corresponding first screw hole 111. Then, the screw is passed through the first through hole 121 and threaded into the first screw hole 111. In this way, the rear shell 11 and the liner 12 are securely and reliably fastened together by screws.

[0098] To achieve a screwless appearance, the front cover 13 is mounted on the liner 12 via a snap-fit ​​mechanism. Specifically, after the rear cover 11 and the liner 12 are fixedly connected together, since the first through hole 121 on the liner 12 is visible from the front of the outer shell 1, the front cover 13 is used to cover the first through hole 121 and screws to ensure that the overall appearance does not expose the first through hole 121 and screws.

[0099] The connection process between the front shell 13 and the liner 12 is as follows: the second snap-fit ​​portion 130 on the front shell 13 snaps together with the corresponding first snap-fit ​​portion 122 on the liner 12, thereby securing the front shell 13 onto the liner 12. Simultaneously, the front shell 13 conceals the first through-hole 121, ensuring that the first through-hole 121 is not visible from the outside, achieving a screwless appearance. Furthermore, the snap-fit ​​method conceals the snap-fit ​​connection area, optimizing the overall aesthetics.

[0100] In some embodiments, the specific physical manifestations of the first latching portion 122 and the second latching portion 130 can adopt various structural forms, as illustrated below.

[0101] The second latching part 130 includes a latch 1301, and the first latching part 122 includes a latch slot 1221, with the latch 1301 latched in the latch slot 1221.

[0102] Specifically, when the front shell 13 and the liner 12 are snapped together, the claw 1301 will be snapped into the slot 1221. The claw 1301 and the slot 1221 cooperate with each other to connect the front shell 13 and the liner 12 together.

[0103] In order to improve the connection strength, the second snap-fit ​​part 130 also includes a first tongue 1302, and the first snap-fit ​​part 122 also includes a first positioning groove 1222, with the first tongue 1302 inserted into the first positioning groove 1222.

[0104] Specifically, during assembly, the first tongue 1302 is first inserted into the first positioning groove 1222 to pre-position the front shell 13 and the liner 12. Then, the claw 1301 is engaged in the slot 1221 to complete the assembly between the front shell 13 and the liner 12.

[0105] The openings of the first positioning groove 1222 and the slot 1221 are arranged in opposite directions. This allows the connection between the latch and the slot 1221 to cooperate with the connection between the first tongue 1302 and the first positioning groove 1222, enabling the front shell 13 to be more firmly and reliably installed and fixed on the outer wall of the liner 12.

[0106] In another embodiment, since both the claw 1301 and the first tongue 1302 are located on the inner wall of the front shell 13, during assembly, the inner wall of the front shell 13 and the outer wall of the liner 12 cooperate with each other, making it difficult for the operator to accurately insert the first tongue 1302 into the positioning groove.

[0107] Therefore, a first guide groove 124 and a second guide groove 125 can be provided on the outer surface of the liner 12, with the first guide groove 124 extending to the slot 1221 and the second guide groove 125 extending to the positioning slot.

[0108] Specifically, during assembly, the operator can first place the claw 1301 in the first guide groove 124, while simultaneously positioning the first tongue 1302 in the second guide groove 125.

[0109] Then, the operator will slide the front shell 13 along the first guide groove 124 and the second guide groove 125 so that the first tongue 1302 is accurately inserted into the first positioning groove 1222, and finally the claw 1301 is locked in the slot 1221.

[0110] Under the guidance of the first guide groove 124 and the second guide groove 125, the guide groove can cooperate with the first insert tongue 1302 and the claw 1301 to guide the front shell 13 to slide.

[0111] Therefore, during the initial installation, the front shell 13 and the liner 12 can be far apart to facilitate the operator's observation of the position of the claw 1301 and the first tongue 1302, thereby ensuring that the claw 1301 and the first tongue 1302 are accurately placed in the corresponding guide groove.

[0112] Then, as the slide along the guide groove, the distance between the front shell 13 and the liner 12 gradually decreases. The operator relies on the guiding effect of the guide groove to ensure that the first tongue 1302 is inserted into the first positioning groove 1222 first.

[0113] Finally, the claw 1301 is engaged in the slot 1221 so that the front shell 13 and the liner 12 are securely connected together.

[0114] In other embodiments, in order to further improve the connection strength between the front shell 13 and the liner 12, the following structural improvements are made to the front shell 13.

[0115] Front shell 13 includes:

[0116] Front panel 132;

[0117] The housing 131 has a second snap-fit ​​part 130 and a second through hole 133.

[0118] The liner 12 is also provided with a second screw hole 123. The screw passes through the second through hole 133 and is threaded into the corresponding second screw hole 123. The front panel 132 covers the second through hole 133 and is provided on the front panel 132.

[0119] Specifically, the front shell 13 adopts a split design. The shell 131, as the main body, is mounted on the liner 12 through the second snap-fit ​​part 130 and the first snap-fit ​​part 122. At the same time, the shell 131 and the liner 12 are further securely connected together by screws. The screws connecting the shell 131 and the liner 12 are concealed by the front panel 132 to meet the appearance design requirement of no exposed screws on the front of the shell 1.

[0120] In one embodiment, the housing 131 is provided with a groove 134, a second through hole 133 is located in the groove 134, and the front panel 132 is disposed in the groove 134.

[0121] Specifically, a groove 134 is provided on the front side of the housing 131 to accommodate the front panel 132, making the front side of the housing 1 flatter. Meanwhile, the second through hole 133 is located within the groove 134. Thus, after the front panel 132 is assembled into the groove 134, the second through hole 133 can be concealed by the front panel 132.

[0122] In another embodiment, in order to enable the front panel 132 to be conveniently and securely mounted on the housing 131, a slot 135 is also provided in the groove 134, and a second tongue 136 is provided on the front panel 132, the tongue being disposed in the corresponding slot 135.

[0123] Specifically, after the housing 131 is installed on the liner 12, the front panel 132 is inserted into the corresponding slot 135 via the tongue configured thereon to complete the installation. The tongue and slot 135 cooperate to achieve a screwless appearance on the front of the housing 1.

[0124] In order to further improve the connection reliability of the front panel 132, the front panel 132 is provided with an extension 137 extending toward the liner 12. The extension 137 is provided with a third screw hole (not shown), and the housing 131 is provided with a countersunk hole (not shown). The screw passes through the countersunk hole and is threaded into the third screw hole.

[0125] Specifically, to meet the requirements of the appearance design, depending on the installation position of the outer casing 1, the extension 137 can be arranged on the upper or lower part of the front panel 132. The extension 137 is formed at the bottom of the front panel 132. Correspondingly, a countersunk hole is provided at the bottom of the housing 131. After the front panel 132 is connected by the tongue and slot 135, it is further fixed from the bottom by screws.

[0126] Preferably, a removable plug (not shown) can also be provided on the countersunk hole. After the front panel 132 is fixed to the housing 131 with screws, the plug can be used to cover the screws located in the countersunk hole, further satisfying the design of no exposed screws on the front appearance of the housing 1.

[0127] In some embodiments, in order to facilitate the quick assembly of the liner 12 and the rear shell 11 by the operator on site, an mounting platform 112 is provided on the inner wall of the rear shell 11, and the mounting platform 112 is provided with the first threaded hole.

[0128] Specifically, during the assembly process, the mounting platform 112 can support and position the liner 12, so that operators can quickly connect and assemble the liner 12 with the back cover 11.

[0129] In another embodiment, in order to facilitate the positioning and assembly of the back cover 11 and the liner 12, a second positioning groove 113 can be provided on the mounting platform 112, and the edge of the liner 12 is engaged in the second positioning groove 113.

[0130] Specifically, during the assembly of the rear shell 11 and the liner 12, the edge of the liner 12 can be inserted into the second positioning groove 113 to pre-assemble the rear shell 11 and the liner 12 together.

[0131] Then, adjust the relative position between the rear shell 11 and the liner 12 so that the first through hole 121 is aligned with the first screw hole 111.

[0132] Finally, the screw is passed through the first through hole 121 and threaded into the first screw hole 111 so that the rear shell 11 and the liner 12 are securely and reliably assembled together.

[0133] In order to accurately position the relationship between the rear shell 11 and the liner 12 and improve assembly accuracy, a stepped surface 114 can be provided on the inner wall of the rear shell 11, and a positioning rib 126 can be provided on the outer wall of the liner 12, with the positioning rib 126 abutting against the stepped surface 114.

[0134] Specifically, during the assembly of the rear shell 11 and the liner 12, the pre-positioning process via the positioning groove described above is referenced to ensure that the rear shell 11 and the liner 12 are pre-assembled together. Simultaneously, after the edge of the liner 12 is inserted into the positioning groove, the positioning ribs 126 on the liner 12 will abut against the stepped surface 114, thereby ensuring accurate positioning between the rear shell 11 and the liner 12 and improving the overall assembly quality of the outer shell assembly.

[0135] In one embodiment, the edge of the rear shell 11 is further provided with a baffle 115, the baffle 115 being located outside the stepped surface 114, and the edge of the front shell 13 is provided with an extension edge 127, the extension edge 127 surrounding the outside of the baffle 115.

[0136] Specifically, the front shell 13 can cover the entire outer surface of the liner 12, thus completely concealing the liner 12 from the outside and optimizing the visual appearance. Meanwhile, the retaining rib 115 formed on the edge of the rear shell 11 serves two purposes: firstly, during assembly, the retaining rib 115 can cooperate with the extended edge 127 for pre-positioning, improving assembly efficiency and accuracy; secondly, the retaining rib 115 being concealed by the extended edge 127 formed by the edge of the front shell 13 further enhances the overall appearance.

[0137] In a preferred embodiment, for the docking area between the front shell 13 and the rear shell 11, the edge of the front shell 13 is designed to be aligned with the edge of the rear shell 11, thereby reducing the size of the connection gap between the front shell 13 and the rear shell 11 at the docking area.

[0138] In addition, the number of connection points between the rear shell 11 and the liner 12, and the number of connection points between the front shell 13 and the liner 12, are designed in accordance with the overall dimensions of the shell assembly.

[0139] For example, multiple mounting platforms 112 can be provided on the edge of the rear shell 11, and the multiple mounting platforms 112 are distributed along the edge of the rear shell 11.

[0140] Correspondingly, the liner 12 is provided with a number of first through holes 121 corresponding to the mounting platform 112, so as to connect and fix the rear shell 11 and the liner 12 by multiple screws.

[0141] Similarly, there are multiple snap-fit ​​connections between the front shell 13 and the liner 12, which are not limited here.

[0142] By using a liner to indirectly connect the front and rear shells, the liner and the rear shell are tightly connected together with screws to meet the overall structural strength requirements of the shell. The front shell is connected to the liner by a snap-fit ​​method, which covers the liner and thus the screws, so that the overall shell achieves a screwless appearance, optimizing the overall appearance of the shell and improving the user experience.

[0143] 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 the invention. 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.

[0144] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and are not intended to limit them. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions claimed by the present invention.

Claims

1. A water tank outer shell, wherein a flat-structured inner liner is installed inside the outer shell, characterized in that, The thickness of the outer casing is less than its length and height, and the back of the outer casing forms a mounting surface. The cross-section of the outer casing perpendicular to its length or height direction has a first line segment, a second line segment, a third line segment, and a fourth line segment connected in sequence. The first line segment and the third line segment are arranged opposite each other, and the second line segment and the fourth line segment are arranged opposite each other. The first line segment is arranged on the mounting surface, and the curvature of the first line segment is less than the curvature of the second line segment and the fourth line segment. The outer shell includes a rear shell, a liner, and a front shell. The edge of the rear shell is provided with a first screw hole, and the back of the rear shell forms a mounting surface. The edge of the liner is provided with a first through hole, and the outer surface of the liner is also provided with a first snap-fit ​​part. The inner surface of the front shell is provided with a second snap-fit ​​part. The liner is connected to the rear shell, and the screw passes through the first through hole and is threaded into the corresponding first screw hole. The front shell covers the liner, and the first snap-fit ​​part is connected to the corresponding second snap-fit ​​part. The first snap-fit ​​part includes a snap-fit ​​groove and a first positioning groove, and the second snap-fit ​​part includes a snap-fit ​​claw and a first insertion tongue; the snap-fit ​​claw is snapped in the snap-fit ​​groove, and the first insertion tongue is inserted into the first positioning groove; the outer surface of the liner is provided with a first guide groove and a second guide groove, the first guide groove extending to the snap-fit ​​groove, and the second guide groove extending to the positioning groove.

2. The outer shell for a water tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first line segment is a straight segment.

3. The outer shell for a water tank according to claim 2, characterized in that, The mounting surface has a planar structure.

4. The outer shell for a water tank according to claim 3, characterized in that, A bracket is provided on the mounting surface.

5. The outer shell for a water tank according to claim 4, characterized in that, The mounting surface has a recessed structure, and the bracket is located in the recessed structure.

6. The outer shell for a water tank according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The curvature of the third line segment is less than that of the second line segment and the fourth line segment.

7. The outer shell for a water tank according to claim 6, characterized in that, The curvature of the first line segment is less than the curvature of the third line segment.

8. The outer shell for a water tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cross-section of the outer shell perpendicular to the thickness direction is circular or elliptical.

9. The outer shell for a water tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cross-section of the outer shell perpendicular to the thickness direction is square or rectangular.

10. The outer shell for a water tank according to claim 9, characterized in that, The four corners of the cross section of the outer shell perpendicular to the thickness direction are set with a chamfered structure.

11. The outer shell for a water tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ratio of the thickness to the length of the outer casing is in the range of 1:(1.4-2.5); and / or the ratio of the thickness to the height of the outer casing is in the range of 1:(1.4-2.5).

12. The outer shell for a water tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second line segment or the fourth line segment is a continuous and smooth curve structure; or, the second line segment or the fourth line segment is a curve structure composed of multiple line segments with different curvatures.

13. A water tank, comprising an inner liner, said inner liner having a flat structure, characterized in that, It also includes the outer shell of the water tank as described in any one of claims 1-12, wherein the inner liner is located in the outer shell, and an insulation layer is provided between the inner liner and the outer shell.

14. An electric water heater, characterized in that, Including the water tank as described in claim 13.

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