Flat inner container and electric water heater

Abstract

The application discloses a flat inner container and an electric water heater. The flat inner container comprises: an inner container, a pipe seat of an integral structure is formed on the inner container, the pipe seat is arranged on the curved surface of the inner container and extends towards the outside of the inner container; a water pipe assembly, the water pipe assembly comprises an insulating pipe and a water pipe, the water pipe is inserted in the insulating pipe; wherein the insulating pipe is arranged on the pipe seat, and the water pipe is inserted in the pipe seat and extends to the inside of the inner container. The thickness size of the flat inner container is reduced, the space utilization is improved, and the user experience of the electric water heater is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of household appliance technology, and particularly relates to a flat inner tank and an electric water heater. Background Technology

[0002] Water heaters are currently common household appliances, and they are classified into electric water heaters and gas water heaters based on their heating source. Electric water heaters are widely used due to their ease of installation. An electric water heater typically consists of an inner tank and an electric heater, which is located inside the inner tank to heat the water within it.

[0003] Conventional storage-type electric water heaters typically include a water tank, an electric heating element, and an electronic control board. The water tank consists of an outer shell and an inner tank, with the inner tank housed within the outer shell. An insulation layer forms between the outer shell and the inner tank to improve the water tank's insulation performance. The inner tank is generally arranged horizontally, while the heating element is typically arranged along the length of the inner tank. The heating element generates heat when energized to heat the water in the inner tank. Conventional water tanks are usually cylindrical, resulting in a large space occupation for the electric water heater and a poor user experience. Chinese Patent Application No. 201810022007.1 discloses an inner tank for an electric water heater that uses a two-section structure to form a flat shell, thereby reducing the space occupied in the room. However, due to installation limitations of the inlet and outlet pipes, the inlet and outlet are located on the straight section of the inner tank, which increases the thickness of the inner tank.

[0004] Therefore, the technical problem to be solved by this invention is how to design a water heater with a small thickness to reduce indoor space occupation and improve user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides a flat inner tank and an electric water heater, which reduces the thickness of the flat inner tank to improve space utilization and thus enhance the user experience of the electric water heater.

[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned technical objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] In one aspect, the present invention provides a flat inner liner, comprising:

[0008] The inner liner has an integrally formed tube seat, which is arranged on the arc surface of the inner liner and extends toward the outside of the inner liner.

[0009] A water pipe assembly, the water pipe assembly comprising an insulating pipe and a water pipe, the water pipe being inserted into the insulating pipe;

[0010] The insulating tube is mounted on the tube seat, and the water pipe is inserted into the tube seat and extends into the inner liner.

[0011] In one embodiment of this application, the inner liner includes two shells, the shells being an overall arc-shaped structure, and at least one of the shells being provided with the tube seat.

[0012] In one embodiment of this application, the perforated flange on the shell forms the outwardly extending tube seat.

[0013] In one embodiment of this application, a connecting pipe is provided on the pipe seat, and an internal thread is provided in the connecting pipe; a first insert is provided at one end of the insulating pipe, the first insert has a cylindrical structure, an external thread is formed on the outer circumference of the first insert, and the first insert is threadedly connected in the internal thread.

[0014] In one embodiment of this application, a sealing ring is also fitted over the first insert, and the sealing ring is pressed between the connecting tube and the insulating tube.

[0015] In one embodiment of this application, a second insert is provided at the other end of the insulating tube. The second insert has a cylindrical structure and an external thread is formed on its outer periphery.

[0016] In one embodiment of this application, a sleeve is further provided outside the water pipe, and a plurality of through holes are provided on the wall of the sleeve.

[0017] In one embodiment of this application, the space between the sleeve and the water pipe is further filled with functional filter material, and a first annular plug is provided between the upper end of the sleeve and the water pipe.

[0018] In one embodiment of this application, the lower end of the sleeve is connected to the insulating pipe, or the lower end of the sleeve is connected to the first insert; or, a second annular plug is provided between the lower end of the sleeve and the water pipe.

[0019] The present invention also provides an electric water heater, including an outer shell and the aforementioned flat inner tank, wherein the flat inner tank is disposed in the outer shell and an insulation layer is disposed between the flat inner tank and the outer shell.

[0020] Compared with the prior art, the advantages and positive effects of the present invention are: by setting the pipe seat on the arc surface structure of the tank shell to meet the installation requirements of the water pipe, the tank shell can be free of straight segments or the length of straight segments can be reduced, thus eliminating the need to extend the length of straight segments due to the installation of water pipes. This effectively reduces the overall thickness of the inner tank, thereby reducing the thickness of the flat inner tank, improving space utilization, and thus improving the user experience of the electric water heater. Attached Figure Description

[0021] 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.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the flat inner liner of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 for Figure 1 MM-direction sectional view;

[0024] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A magnified view of a portion of region N;

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the connecting tube and the tube seat in one embodiment of the flat inner liner of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the flat inner liner of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 6 This is an assembly diagram of the water pipe assembly and connecting pipe in another embodiment of the flat inner liner of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the water pipe assembly in another embodiment of the flat inner liner of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A magnified view of a portion of region I;

[0030] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a water tank in an embodiment of the electric water heater of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 10 This is an exploded view of an embodiment of the water tank in the electric water heater of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the electric water heater of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 12 for Figure 11 A magnified view of a portion of region A in the middle;

[0034] Figure 13 for Figure 11 A magnified view of a portion of region B in the middle;

[0035] Figure 14This is a schematic diagram of the front panel structure in one embodiment of the electric water heater of the present invention.

[0036] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0037] Outer shell 1;

[0038] Rear shell 11, first screw hole 111, mounting platform 112, second positioning groove 113, stepped surface 114, retaining rib 115;

[0039] 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;

[0040] Card slot 1221, first positioning slot 1222;

[0041] Front shell 13, second snap-fit ​​part 130, front panel 131, housing 132, second through hole 133, groove 134, slot 135, second tongue 136, extension part 137;

[0042] Claw 1301, First insertion tongue 1302;

[0043] Mounting port 101, annular shielding part 102;

[0044] Inner liner 2;

[0045] 21. Shell 21; Connecting tube 22;

[0046] Pipe seat 211, straight extension 212;

[0047] Flange connection port 201, connecting bracket 202;

[0048] Electric heating component 3;

[0049] Water pipe assembly 4;

[0050] Insulating tube 41, water pipe 42, first insert 43, sealing ring 44, second insert 45, sleeve 46, first annular plug 47, second annular plug 48, insertion hole 411, threaded hole 451, through hole 461;

[0051] Hanging rack 100. Detailed Implementation

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] A water tank for an electric water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that the water tank of this embodiment can be installed on a vertically extending wall or on a horizontally extending wall.

[0068] For ease of description, the following description uses the example of a water tank installed on a vertical wall to illustrate the structure of the water tank.

[0069] Example 1, such as Figures 1-5 As shown, the present invention also provides a flat inner tank for use in an electric water heater, wherein the flat inner tank includes an inner tank 2 and a water pipe assembly 4.

[0070] An integral tube seat 211 is formed on the inner liner 2. The tube seat 211 is arranged on the arc surface of the inner liner 2 and extends toward the outside of the inner liner 2.

[0071] Water pipe assembly 4 includes an insulating pipe 41 and a water pipe 42, with the water pipe 42 inserted into the insulating pipe 41;

[0072] The insulating tube 41 is installed on the tube seat 211, and the water pipe 42 is inserted into the tube seat 411 and extends into the inner liner 2.

[0073] Specifically, the inner liner 2 includes two shells 21, at least one of the shells 21 is provided with a tube seat 211 that penetrates the arc structure, the edges of the two shells 21 are welded together, and a water storage cavity is formed between the two shells 21.

[0074] The inner liner 2 has a flat structure, meaning its thickness is smaller than its length and height. To meet the design requirements of a pressure vessel, the outer shell 21 has an arc-shaped structure, giving the inner liner 2 higher pressure resistance.

[0075] As for the pipe seat 211, its function is to connect the inlet or outlet pipe of the electric water heater. The pipe seat 211 is formed on the outer arc surface area of ​​the shell 21, thus away from the weld formed on the edge of the shell 21. In this way, it is not necessary to form a straight segment on the edge of the shell 21 or reduce the length of the straight segment on the edge of the shell 21, thereby effectively reducing the overall thickness of the inner tank 2.

[0076] As for the processing method of the tube seat 211, the tube seat 211 can be formed by punching and flanging on the shell 211 to extend outward.

[0077] In actual use, the overall shape of the inner liner 2 can be designed according to the needs. For example, the inner liner 2 can be circular, oval, or other structures, and there are no restrictions here.

[0078] In other embodiments, for the shell 21, the edge of the arc-shaped structure formed therein is provided with a straight extension 212, and two of the straight extensions are welded together.

[0079] Specifically, the purpose of further forming a straight extension 212 on the edge of the shell 21 is to facilitate more convenient and reliable welding of the two shells 21 together. Therefore, in the actual product design process, the width of the straight extension 212 only needs to meet the welding requirements, so the width of the straight extension 212 is relatively narrow, and the width of the straight extension 212 can be designed to be less than 10mm.

[0080] In other embodiments, in order to avoid welding stress deformation of the tube seat 211 caused by the heat generated during welding of the shell 21, the closest distance L between the tube seat 211 and the edge of the straight extension is not less than 7mm.

[0081] In one embodiment, to meet the installation requirements of the electric heating component, a flange connection port 201 is provided on one of the tank shells 21. The electric heating component can extend into the water storage cavity through the flange connection port 201 and be connected and fixed to the flange connection port 201.

[0082] In some embodiments, in order to meet the requirements of water tank suspension installation, a connecting frame 202 can be provided on another tank shell 21. The connecting frame 202 can be fixedly installed on the tank shell 21 by welding. In use, the inner tank 2 is fixedly suspended on the wall through the connecting frame 202.

[0083] To effectively improve space utilization, the connecting bracket 202 is positioned in the upper middle part of the shell 21 because the inner liner 2 has the greatest thickness in its middle section. Specifically, when the inner liner 2 is vertically installed on the wall, the distance between the middle of the inner liner 2 and the wall is the smallest, while the distance between the inner liner 2 and the wall gradually increases along the arc surface of the shell 21 towards the edge of the inner liner 2. By connecting the connecting bracket 202 to the upper middle part of the shell 21, the space between the upper part of the inner liner 2 and the wall can be fully utilized to achieve suspended installation.

[0084] Example 2: Based on Example 1 above, as follows Figures 5-8As shown, to facilitate the installation of the water pipe assembly 4, a connecting pipe 22 is provided on the pipe seat 211 of the inner liner 2. The connecting pipe 22 is welded to the pipe seat 211 and has an internal thread.

[0085] One end of the insulating tube 41 is provided with a first insert 43. The first insert 43 has a cylindrical structure and an external thread is formed on the outer circumference of the first insert 43. The first insert 43 is threadedly connected in the internal thread.

[0086] Specifically, the water pipe assembly 4 is configured with two sets to meet the requirements of water inlet and outlet. Correspondingly, the inner tank 2 is also configured with two pipe seats 211, and a connecting pipe 22 is welded to each pipe seat 211. The insulating pipe 41 is assembled and connected to the water pipe 42. One end of the insulating pipe 41 is provided with a first insert 43 by injection molding. The first insert 43 is made of metal to meet the structural strength requirements for connection with the connecting pipe 22.

[0087] During assembly, the first insert 43 engages with the internal thread of the connecting pipe 22 via its external thread to connect and fix the water pipe assembly 4 to the connecting pipe 22. At the same time, the water pipe 42 extends through the connecting pipe 22 into the inner liner 2.

[0088] Since the insulating tube 41 is connected to the connecting tube 22 on the inner tank 2 by the first insert 43 with external threads, the part of the first insert 43 extending outside the insulating tube 41 is threaded to the inside of the connecting tube 22, thereby shortening the overall length of the insulating tube 41 and the connecting tube 22. In addition, the overall length of the insulating tube 41 outside the connecting tube 22 is effectively shortened, so as to reduce the volume of the entire electric water heater.

[0089] In some embodiments, to improve the connection sealing, a sealing ring 44 may also be fitted outside the first insert 43, and the sealing ring 44 is pressed between the connecting tube 22 and the insulating tube 41.

[0090] Specifically, after the first insert 43 is tightened into the connecting pipe 22, the sealing ring 44 will be squeezed between the connecting pipe 22, the first insert 43 and the insulating pipe 41, thereby effectively sealing the connection between the water pipe assembly 4 and the connecting pipe 22.

[0091] In another embodiment, in order to meet the connection of the user's household pipes, a second insert 45 can also be provided at the other end of the insulating pipe 41. The second insert 45 has a cylindrical structure and an external thread is also formed on the outer periphery of the second insert 45.

[0092] Specifically, the structure of the second insert 45 is similar to that of the first insert 43. By providing external threads on the outside of the second insert 45, it is convenient for the pipes in the user's home to be connected to the insulating pipe 41 when installed in the user's home.

[0093] In some embodiments, to meet functional requirements such as detecting water temperature, water flow rate, or water quality, a sensor (not shown) is also provided on the water pipe assembly 4. To meet the installation requirements of the sensor, an insertion hole 411 is provided on the side wall of the insulating tube 41, and a threaded hole 451 is provided on the side wall of the second insert 45. The threaded hole 451 penetrates the side wall of the second insert 45 and communicates with the insertion hole 411.

[0094] Specifically, the sensor is inserted into the socket 411, and the sensor housing is threaded into the threaded hole 451 of the second insert 45, thereby integrating the sensor onto the water pipe assembly 4. This facilitates modular assembly in the factory, improving the overall assembly efficiency of the electric water heater.

[0095] In one embodiment, in order to mitigate the mixing effect of inlet and outlet water on the water stored in the inner tank 2, a sleeve 46 is also provided outside the water pipe 42, and a plurality of through holes 461 are provided on the wall of the sleeve 46.

[0096] Specifically, the water pipe 42 is configured as an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe as needed. For the inlet pipe, the water flowing into the inner tank 2 from the water pipe 42 first enters the sleeve 46, and then exits from multiple through holes 461 to effectively slow down the freezing of the water flowing into the inner tank 2.

[0097] In a preferred embodiment, to enrich the functionality of the electric water heater, functional filter media can be filled between the sleeve 46 and the water pipe 42. Specifically, the functional filter media can be water purification materials, mineral materials, or fragrances, etc., and is filled between the sleeve 46 and the water pipe 42 and immersed in the water in the inner tank 2. When the user uses the electric water heater to use hot water, the water enters the inner tank 2 and flows through the functional filter media to achieve water purification, mineralization, or fragrance treatment, thereby improving the user experience.

[0098] In order to prevent or reduce the functional filter material from detaching from the port between the sleeve 46 and the water pipe 42, a first annular plug 47 can be provided between the upper end of the sleeve 46 and the water pipe 42.

[0099] Specifically, the first annular plug 47 seals the free end of the sleeve 46 to prevent the functional filter material from leaking out of the free port of the sleeve 46. As for the installation and fixing method of the sleeve 46, the lower end of the sleeve 46 can be connected to the insulating tube 41, or the lower end of the sleeve 46 can be connected to the first insert 43. Alternatively, the other end of the sleeve 46 can also be fixed and sealed by cooperating with the water pipe 42 using the second annular plug 48.

[0100] By providing an internal thread on the connecting pipe of the inner tank and an external thread on the first insert of the insulating pipe, the insulating pipe is connected to the inner tank through the first insert. The first insert utilizes the length of the connecting pipe itself to meet the length requirements of the threaded connection, thus eliminating the need for a long connecting pipe outside the inner tank to connect the insulating pipe. At the same time, it effectively shortens the length of the insulating pipe itself, thereby reducing the size of the electric water heater, improving space utilization, and enhancing the user experience of the electric water heater.

[0101] Based on the above embodiments one and two, the embodiments of the present invention specifically design a flat outer shell 1 with the following structural design for the flat inner liner 2.

[0102] Example 3, as follows Figures 9-14 As shown, the present invention also provides an insulated water tank for use in electric water heaters. The water tank adopts a flat design to reduce the effective indoor space occupied by the electric water heater. The insulated water tank includes an outer shell 1, an inner tank 2, and an electric heating element 3 assembled together. Since both the outer shell 1 and the inner tank 2 are flat structures, the following structural improvements are made to the outer shell 1, the inner tank 2, and the electric heating element 3.

[0103] The front part of the outer casing 1 is provided with a mounting port 101, and the inner wall of the outer casing 1 is also provided with an annular shielding part 102, which is arranged around the mounting port 101.

[0104] The inner liner 2 has a flange connection port 201 on its front.

[0105] The inner liner 2 is located inside the outer shell 1. The annular shielding part 102 surrounds the outside of the flange connection port 201. An insulation layer (not shown) is provided between the outer shell 1 and the inner liner 2. The electric heating component 3 is provided on the flange connection port 201 and extends into the interior of the inner liner 2.

[0106] Specifically, the water tank adopts a flat design, with its thickness being smaller than its height and length. In order to meet the installation requirements of the electric heating component 3, and also to meet the maintenance requirements of the electric heating component 3 in the future, an installation port 101 is provided at the front of the outer shell 1. Correspondingly, a flange connection port 201 is provided at the front of the inner tank 2.

[0107] When it is necessary to assemble the electric heating component 3, the electric heating component 3 can be inserted from the mounting port 101 and extended into the inner liner 2 through the flange connection port 201 to complete the assembly. Similarly, when the electric heating component 3 is replaced during later maintenance, it can be removed from the inner liner 2 through the mounting port 101 and taken out easily.

[0108] Meanwhile, for water tanks with a flat structure, the electric heating element 3 is installed at the front of the inner tank 2 to make full use of the area of ​​the front surface of the inner tank 2 to securely and reliably install the electric heating element 3.

[0109] More importantly, during foaming, to reduce or prevent the foaming material from overflowing around the flange connection port 201 of the inner liner 2, an annular shielding portion 102 extending towards the flange connection port 201 is formed on the inner wall of the outer shell 1. The annular shielding portion 102 has a cylindrical structure and surrounds the periphery of the mounting port 101. After the inner liner 2 is installed in the outer shell 1, the annular shielding portion 102 will surround the periphery of the flange connection port 201, thereby forming an area between the annular shielding portion 102 and the flange connection port 201 to prevent leakage of the foaming material.

[0110] A foaming cavity is formed between the outer shell 1 and the inner liner 2. After the foaming material is injected into the foaming cavity, when the foaming material flows to the flange connection port 201, the foaming material can be blocked by the annular shielding part 102, thereby reducing the leakage of the foaming material from the flange connection port 201.

[0111] In some embodiments, in order to improve the spill prevention effect, the edge of the annular shield 102 is attached to the outer wall of the inner liner 2.

[0112] Specifically, after the inner liner 2 is installed into the outer shell 1, the edge of the annular shield 102 will be attached to the outer wall of the inner liner 2. In this way, during the foaming process, the annular shield 102 can better prevent the foaming material from leaking from the flange connection port 201.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment, a gap is formed between the edge of the annular shield 102 and the outer wall of the inner liner 2 for ease of assembly. Furthermore, to reduce leakage of the foaming material from the gap, a first flexible sealing portion (not shown) can be provided on the outside of the annular shield 102, which covers the gap.

[0114] Specifically, during assembly, the first flexible sealing part is first wrapped around the outside of the annular shield 102 and extends to the edge of the annular shield 102. After the inner liner 2 is inserted into the outer shell 1, because the first flexible sealing part is elastic and deformable, it will tightly abut against the outer wall of the inner liner 2, so as to effectively seal the gap formed between the annular shield 102 and the inner liner 2.

[0115] Similarly, a second flexible sealing part can be provided on the outside of the flange connection 201, which covers the gap.

[0116] Specifically, during the assembly process, a second flexible sealing part is first wrapped around the flange connection port 201 on the inner liner 2. After the inner liner 2 is installed into the outer shell 1, because the second flexible sealing part is elastic and deformable, the annular blocking part 102 is pressed on the second flexible sealing part to effectively seal the gap formed between the annular blocking part 102 and the inner liner 2.

[0117] In actual use, the specific physical manifestation of the flexible sealing part can be made of components such as rubber cotton or sealing gaskets, which will not be restricted or elaborated here.

[0118] In another embodiment, in order to better block the foam material flowing to the flange connection port 201 by the annular blocking part 102, the outer diameter of the annular blocking part 102 gradually decreases along the direction from the mounting port 101 to the flange connection port 201.

[0119] Specifically, the cross-section of the annular shield 102 is a funnel-shaped structure. The port size of the annular shield 102 opposite to the inner liner 2 is small. The outer wall of the annular shield 102 forms an inclined surface. On the one hand, the smaller port is used to prevent the foam material from overflowing. On the other hand, the inclined outer wall ensures that the foam material can flow along it to evenly distribute the foam material outside the inner liner 2.

[0120] In some embodiments, to effectively position the inner liner 2 within the outer shell 1 before foaming and to prevent the inner liner 2 from shifting during the foaming process, a connecting bracket 202 with threaded holes (unmarked) is provided on the back of the inner liner 2. Correspondingly, a hanger 100 with mounting holes (unmarked) is provided on the back of the outer shell 1; bolts pass through the mounting holes and extend into the inner threaded hole 451 of the outer shell 1, with the connecting bracket 202 abutting against the inner wall of the outer shell 1.

[0121] Specifically, after the inner liner 2 is inserted into the outer shell 1, the inner liner 2 is fixed to the outer shell 1 by the connecting bracket 202. At the same time, the connecting bracket 202 is connected to the hanging bracket 100 by bolts, and at the same time serves to install the hanging bracket 100.

[0122] In another embodiment, the mounting opening 101 is formed at the front of the housing 1. To optimize the appearance, it can be covered by a front panel 131 disposed at the front of the housing 1. During normal use, the front panel 131 is fixed to the front of the housing 1 to cover the mounting opening 101. When it is necessary to repair the electric heating component 3, the front panel 131 is removed.

[0123] By configuring an installation port at the front of the outer shell to meet the requirements of electric heating component installation and subsequent maintenance, and with an inwardly extending annular shielding part formed around the installation port inside the outer shell, the annular shielding part surrounds the flange connection port of the inner liner. Since the annular shielding part cooperates with the front surface of the inner liner, it can better prevent material overflow around the flange connection port. In this way, during the foaming process, after the foaming material flows between the outer shell and the inner liner, the flow of foaming material to the flange connection port of the inner liner can be blocked by the annular shielding part, thereby reducing the overflow of foaming material, improving foaming quality, and thus improving product quality.

[0124] Based on the above embodiments two and three, the embodiments of the present invention also have the following structural design for the outer shell 1.

[0125] Example 4, as follows Figures 12-14 As shown, the outer shell 1 in embodiments two and three above adopts a flat design and an overall curved surface design to achieve a good appearance design effect.

[0126] To achieve a screwless design for the front view, the following structural design is adopted for the outer casing 1.

[0127] The housing 1 includes:

[0128] 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.

[0129] The liner 12 has a first through hole 121 on its edge, a first snap-fit ​​part 122 on its outer surface, an installation opening 101 on its surface, and an annular blocking part 102 on its inner wall.

[0130] The front shell 13 has a second snap-fit ​​portion 130 on its inner surface;

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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.

[0144] 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.

[0145] 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.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] Finally, the claw 1301 is engaged in the slot 1221 so that the front shell 13 and the liner 12 are securely connected together.

[0150] 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.

[0151] Front shell 13 includes:

[0152] Front panel 131;

[0153] The housing 132 has a second snap-fit ​​part 130 and a second through hole 133.

[0154] 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 131 covers the second through hole 133 and is provided on the front panel 131.

[0155] Specifically, the front shell 13 adopts a split design. The shell 132, 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 132 and the liner 12 are further securely connected together by screws. The screws connecting the shell 132 and the liner 12 are concealed by the front panel 131 to meet the appearance design requirement of no exposed screws on the front of the shell 1.

[0156] In one embodiment, the housing 132 is provided with a groove 134, a second through hole 133 is located in the groove 134, and the front panel 131 is disposed in the groove 134.

[0157] Specifically, a groove 134 is provided on the front side of the housing 132 to accommodate the front panel 131, making the front side of the housing 1 flatter. Meanwhile, the second through hole 133 is located within the groove 134. Therefore, after the front panel 131 is assembled into the groove 134, the second through hole 133 can be concealed by the front panel 131.

[0158] In another embodiment, in order to enable the front panel 131 to be conveniently and securely mounted on the housing 132, a slot 135 is also provided in the groove 134, and a second tongue 136 is provided on the front panel 131, the tongue being disposed in the corresponding slot 135.

[0159] Specifically, after the housing 132 is installed on the liner 12, the front panel 131 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.

[0160] In order to further improve the connection reliability of the front panel 131, the front panel 131 is provided with an extension 137 extending toward the liner 12. The extension 137 is provided with a third screw hole (not shown). The housing 132 is provided with a countersunk hole (not shown). The screw passes through the countersunk hole and is threaded into the third screw hole.

[0161] 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 131. The extension 137 is formed at the bottom of the front panel 131. Correspondingly, a countersunk hole is provided at the bottom of the housing 132. After the front panel 131 is connected by the tongue and slot 135, it is further fixed from the bottom by screws.

[0162] Preferably, a removable plug (not shown) can also be provided on the countersunk hole. After the front panel 131 is fixed to the housing 132 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.

[0163] 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.

[0164] 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.

[0165] 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.

[0166] 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.

[0167] 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.

[0168] 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.

[0169] 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.

[0170] 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.

[0171] 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.

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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.

[0175] 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.

[0176] 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.

[0177] Similarly, there are multiple snap-fit ​​connections between the front shell 13 and the liner 12, which are not limited here.

[0178] 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.

[0179] 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.

[0180] 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. An electric water heater, comprising a casing, characterized in that, It also includes a flat inner liner; The flat inner liner includes: The inner liner has an integrally formed tube seat, which is arranged on the arc surface of the inner liner and extends toward the outside of the inner liner. A water pipe assembly, the water pipe assembly comprising an insulating pipe and a water pipe, the water pipe being inserted into the insulating pipe; The insulating tube is mounted on the tube seat, and the water pipe is inserted into the tube seat and extends into the inner tank. The flat inner liner is disposed in the outer shell, and an insulation layer is disposed between the flat inner liner and the outer shell; 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 in 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 extends to the snap-fit ​​groove, and the second guide groove extends to the first positioning groove.

2. The electric water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner liner includes two shells, each of which has an overall arc-shaped structure, and at least one of the shells is provided with the tube seat.

3. The electric water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, The tube seat is formed by punching and flanging holes in the shell.

4. The electric water heater according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The tube seat is provided with a connecting tube, and the connecting tube is provided with an internal thread; one end of the insulating tube is provided with a first insert, the first insert has a cylindrical structure, the outer circumference of the first insert is formed with an external thread, and the first insert is threadedly connected in the internal thread.

5. The electric water heater according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first insert is also fitted with a sealing ring, which is pressed between the connecting tube and the insulating tube.

6. The electric water heater according to claim 4, characterized in that, The other end of the insulating tube is provided with a second insert, which has a cylindrical structure and an external thread formed on its outer periphery.

7. The electric water heater according to claim 4, characterized in that, The water pipe is also provided with a sleeve, and the sleeve has several through holes on its wall.

8. The electric water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that, The space between the sleeve and the water pipe is filled with functional filter material, and a first annular plug is provided between the upper end of the sleeve and the water pipe.

9. The electric water heater according to claim 8, characterized in that, The lower end of the sleeve is connected to the insulating pipe, or the lower end of the sleeve is connected to the first insert; or a second annular plug is provided between the lower end of the sleeve and the water pipe.

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