Microbubble bath
By optimizing the valve body structure and throat design in the water heater system, reducing the number of valves used, and combining gasket shearing of air to form highly efficient microbubble water, the problems of high manufacturing cost and limited number of microbubbles in the existing technology have been solved, realizing efficient and economical microbubble water generation.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- QINGDAO ECONOMIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT ZONE HAIER WATER HEATER CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2022-04-02
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-29
Smart Images

Figure CN115381316B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention belongs to the field of household appliance technology, and in particular relates to a microbubble bath machine. Background Technology
[0002] Currently, water heaters are common household appliances, categorized into electric water heaters, gas water heaters, and solar water heaters. In most homes, a mixing valve is installed to mix the hot water from the water heater with the cold water from the tap, ultimately delivering hot water at a suitable temperature from the faucet or showerhead.
[0003] Chinese Patent Publication No. CN 109179855 A discloses a washing water generating device, which is equipped with a filter element and an ejector air pipe to filter water and increase microbubbles in the water flow. However, in actual use, multiple valves are required, which increases manufacturing costs; and the ejector air pipe is limited by the water flow rate, resulting in a small number of microbubbles and the inability to continuously generate microbubble water.
[0004] Therefore, the technical problem to be solved by this invention is how to design a compact structure to reduce manufacturing costs and optimize the microbubble effect. Summary of the Invention
[0005] This invention provides a microbubble shower machine that reduces the number of valves used to achieve a compact design, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the microbubble shower machine, while optimizing the effect of microbubbles.
[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 microbubble bath machine, comprising:
[0008] A microbubble shower machine, characterized in that it includes:
[0009] A first valve body is provided with a thermostatic valve core, which is provided with a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet and a mixed water outlet.
[0010] The second valve body is provided with a cold water flow channel, a hot water flow channel and an outlet water flow channel;
[0011] Functional container;
[0012] A microbubble water generator includes a throat and gaskets. The gaskets are stacked along the axial direction of the throat and disposed at the throat of the throat. Air can enter the throat through the micro gaps between the gaskets and mix with water to form microbubble water.
[0013] The cold water channel is connected to the cold water inlet, the hot water channel is connected to the hot water inlet, the functional container is connected between the mixed water outlet and the outlet channel, and the throat is connected to the outlet channel.
[0014] Additionally, the second valve body is used to selectively open and close the cold water flow channel and the hot water flow channel; and / or, the second valve body is used to selectively open and close the outlet water flow channel.
[0015] Compared with the prior art, the advantages and positive effects of the present invention are as follows: by setting a cold water channel, a hot water channel, and an outlet water channel in the second valve body, and connecting the functional container between the outlet water channel and the mixing water outlet of the first valve body, the flow of water in the functional container is controlled by controlling the opening and closing of the channels through the second valve body during use. This allows the hot water output from the water heater to be processed by the thermostatic valve core and then purified or mineralized by the functional container before finally flowing out from the outlet water channel in the second valve body. Since the functional container is connected between the second valve body and the first valve body, there is no need to add an additional independent valve for control, thereby reducing the number of valves used, reducing the manufacturing cost of the microbubble shower machine, and reducing the overall size.
[0016] Furthermore, by placing gaskets at the throat of the tube, air enters the tube through the micro-gap between the gaskets and mixes with water. Because the micro-gap between the gaskets is small, it can shear the air, thus transforming it into finer, higher-pressure air. This results in a more effective and continuous generation of microbubble water. In addition, the present invention, by setting up a throat structure, increases the water flow rate and lowers the pressure. This, combined with the micro-gap between the gaskets, increases the air pressure, allowing more air to easily integrate into the water. This results in microbubble water containing 10⁻⁶ bubbles per milliliter, further enhancing its effectiveness.
[0017] In one embodiment of this application, the microbubble water generator includes a first pipe and a second pipe with one end sealed inside the first pipe, and the throat is formed between the first pipe and the second pipe.
[0018] In one embodiment of this application, one end of the second pipe is threaded to the first pipe, and the gasket is sandwiched between the first pipe and the second pipe.
[0019] In one embodiment of this application, the sidewall of the gasket has a surface roughness, and the microgap is formed between the sidewalls of adjacent gaskets.
[0020] In one embodiment of this application, the gasket has a plurality of shear grooves on its surfaces on both sides along the axial direction. The micro-gap is formed between the shear grooves and the end face of the first pipe, between the shear grooves of two adjacent gaskets, and between the shear grooves and the end face of the second pipe.
[0021] In one embodiment of this application, several shear grooves are arranged in parallel or intersecting directions.
[0022] In one embodiment of this application, the gasket includes a first sheet and a second sheet arranged in a stepped manner, wherein the diameter of the first sheet is smaller than the diameter of the second sheet.
[0023] In one embodiment of this application, the first pipe is provided with an annular chamber, and air enters the annular chamber and then enters the micro-gap between the gaskets.
[0024] In one embodiment of this application, the microbubble water generator includes a gas pipe with a gas channel connected to the annular chamber.
[0025] In one embodiment of this application, the microbubble water generator further includes a third pipe, which is sealed to the end of the first pipe away from the gasket, for introducing water into the first pipe.
[0026] In one embodiment of this application, the microbubble water generator includes a bypass pipe that connects to both sides of the throat of the throat tube.
[0027] In one embodiment of this application, the microbubble water generator further includes a distribution valve configured to adjust the ratio of water flowing into the throat inlet and the bypass pipe.
[0028] In one embodiment of this application, the functional container includes a plurality of first sub-functional containers connected in series.
[0029] In one embodiment of this application, the functional container includes a plurality of second sub-functional containers connected in parallel.
[0030] In one embodiment of this application, the second valve body is used to selectively open and close the cold water flow channel and the hot water flow channel; the second valve body includes a first valve plate and a second valve plate, the first valve plate is provided with a first cold water through hole, a second cold water through hole, a first hot water through hole and a second hot water through hole, and the second valve plate is provided with a cold water connecting groove and a hot water connecting groove; the second valve is abutted against the first valve plate and can rotate relative to the first valve plate, the cold water connecting groove selectively connects the first cold water through hole and the second cold water through hole, and the hot water connecting groove selectively connects the first hot water through hole and the second hot water through hole; wherein, the first cold water through hole, the cold water connecting groove and the second cold water through hole constitute the cold water flow channel, and the first hot water through hole, the hot water connecting groove and the second hot water through hole constitute the hot water flow channel.
[0031] In one embodiment of this application, the first valve plate is further provided with a first mixing water passage and a second mixing water passage, and the second valve plate is further provided with a mixing water connecting groove; the mixing water connecting groove is used to selectively connect the first mixing water passage and the second mixing water passage, or the mixing water connecting groove connects the first mixing water passage and the second mixing water passage; wherein, the first mixing water passage, the mixing water connecting groove, and the second mixing water passage constitute the water outlet channel.
[0032] In one embodiment of this application, the second valve body is used to selectively open and close the water outlet channel; the second valve body includes a first valve plate and a second valve plate, the first valve plate is further provided with a first mixing water passage and a second mixing water passage, and the second valve plate is further provided with a mixing water connecting groove, the mixing water connecting groove being used to selectively connect the first mixing water passage and the second mixing water passage; wherein, the first mixing water passage, the mixing water connecting groove, and the second mixing water passage constitute the water outlet channel.
[0033] In one embodiment of this application, the first valve plate is further provided with a first cold water through hole, a second cold water through hole, a first hot water through hole, and a second hot water through hole; the second valve plate is provided with a cold water connecting groove and a hot water connecting groove; the second valve is attached to the first valve plate and can rotate relative to the first valve plate; the cold water connecting groove selectively connects the first cold water through hole and the second cold water through hole; the hot water connecting groove selectively connects the first hot water through hole and the second hot water through hole; wherein, the first cold water through hole, the cold water connecting groove, and the second cold water through hole constitute the cold water flow channel, and the first hot water through hole, the hot water connecting groove, and the second hot water through hole constitute the hot water flow channel.
[0034] In one embodiment of this application, the rotation axis of the second valve plate passes through the first mixing water through hole, the first mixing water through hole is located in the middle of the first valve plate, and the second mixing water through hole is located on one side of the first mixing water through hole; the first cold water through hole and the second cold water through hole are arranged side by side on one side of the first mixing water through hole, and the first hot water through hole and the second hot water through hole are arranged side by side on the other side of the first mixing water through hole.
[0035] In one embodiment of this application, the second mixing water through hole, the first cold water through hole, the second cold water through hole, the first hot water through hole and the second hot water through hole are arc-shaped holes, and the cold water connecting groove and the hot water connecting groove are arc-shaped grooves.
[0036] In one embodiment of this application, the microbubble shower machine further includes a hot water inlet pipe and a cold water inlet pipe. The hot water inlet pipe is connected to the hot water flow channel, and the cold water inlet pipe is connected to the cold water flow channel. A filter screen is provided in the hot water inlet pipe and / or the cold water inlet pipe. Attached Figure Description
[0037] 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.
[0038] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of an embodiment of the microbubble bath machine of the present invention;
[0039] Figure 2 This is a second structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the microbubble bath machine of the present invention;
[0040] Figure 3 This is the third structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the microbubble bath machine of the present invention;
[0041] Figure 4 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the microbubble water generator of the present invention;
[0042] Figure 5 This is one of the cross-sectional views of the microbubble water generator of the present invention;
[0043] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the gasket of the present invention;
[0044] Figure 7 This is the second schematic diagram of the microbubble water generator of the present invention;
[0045] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the microbubble water generator of the present invention after the housing is hidden;
[0046] Figure 9 This is a second cross-sectional view of the microbubble water generator of the present invention;
[0047] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second pipe of the present invention;
[0048] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the second valve body of the present invention in the open state;
[0049] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the second valve body of the present invention in the closed state;
[0050] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first valve plate of the present invention;
[0051] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second valve plate of the present invention. 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] like Figure 1 As shown, the microbubble bath machine of this embodiment includes:
[0058] First valve body 100, the first valve body 100 is provided with thermostatic valve core 111, the thermostatic valve core 111 is provided with hot water inlet 112, cold water inlet 113 and mixed water outlet 114;
[0059] The second valve body 200, the first valve body 100 is provided with a cold water flow channel 201, a hot water flow channel 202 and an outlet flow channel 203;
[0060] Functional container 300;
[0061] A microbubble water generator 400 includes a throat and gaskets 1. The gaskets 1 are stacked along the axial direction of the throat and disposed at the throat of the throat. Air can enter the throat through the micro gaps between the gaskets 1 and mix with water to form microbubble water.
[0062] The cold water channel 201 is connected to the cold water inlet 113, the hot water channel 202 is connected to the hot water inlet 112, the functional container 300 is connected between the mixed water outlet 114 and the outlet channel 203, and the throat is connected to the outlet channel.
[0063] Additionally, the second valve body 200 is used to selectively open and close the cold water flow channel 201 and the hot water flow channel 202; and / or, the second valve body 200 is used to selectively open and close the outlet water flow channel 203.
[0064] Specifically, in actual use, the cold water channel 201 of the microbubble shower machine is used to input cold water delivered by the tap water pipe in the user's home, while the hot water channel 202 is used to deliver hot water output by the water heater in the user's home. The microbubble water generator 400 is used to output water and connect to the water terminal (such as faucet or shower head) in the user's home.
[0065] The cold water conveyed by the cold water channel 201 and the hot water conveyed by the hot water channel 202 flow into the first valve body 100 and enter the thermostatic valve core 111. The thermostatic valve core 111 can achieve the mixing of cold and hot water so that the water temperature output from the thermostatic valve core 111 is maintained within the water temperature fluctuation range set by the user.
[0066] After the thermostatic valve core 111 mixes the hot and cold water, the water flows out through the mixed water outlet 114 and into the functional container 300. The functional container 300 is equipped with corresponding functional modules according to its functional requirements. For example, it can be equipped with a water purification module, an aromatherapy module, and a foam module to respectively achieve water purification, aromatherapy, and foaming functions. Thus, showering can also achieve a multi-functional experience. The specific physical manifestations of the functional container 300 are not limited or elaborated upon here.
[0067] After being processed by the functional container 300, the water flows back into the second valve body 200 and finally flows out through the outlet channel 203 inside the second valve body 200.
[0068] Water flowing from outlet 203 enters the throat tube, where it flows and passes through gaskets 1. Air enters the throat tube through the micro-gap between gaskets 1 and mixes with the water. Due to the small size of the micro-gap, the air is sheared, resulting in higher-pressure, finer air. Combined with the throat tube structure, this increases the water flow rate and lowers the pressure. The higher-pressure, finer air allows for greater and easier integration of air into the water, resulting in microbubble water containing 10⁶ bubbles per milliliter. This produces better microbubble water and allows for continuous generation. Furthermore, the microbubble water generator of this invention can produce microbubble water with a bubble diameter of 47 micrometers at 0.3 MPa. Finally, the microbubble water output from the throat tube is delivered to the user's home water terminal for consumption.
[0069] Specifically, the cold water flow channel 201, hot water flow channel 202, and outlet water flow channel 203 configured in the second valve body 200 can be switched on and off as needed. They can be categorized into at least the following three structural forms:
[0070] In Method 1, the second valve body 200 can control the opening and closing of the cold water channel 201, the hot water channel 202, and the outlet channel 203 respectively.
[0071] In actual use, when the user uses water, the second valve body 200 simultaneously adjusts the cold water channel 201, hot water channel 202, and outlet channel 203 to a passable state. Cold and hot water enter through the cold water channel 201 and hot water channel 202, are processed by the functional container 300, and are then output from the outlet channel 203. When the user does not use water, the cold water channel 201, hot water channel 202, and outlet channel 203 are simultaneously cut off.
[0072] In the second method, the second valve body 200 can control the opening and closing of the cold water channel 201 and the hot water channel 202 respectively, while the outlet channel 203 is always in a conductive state.
[0073] In actual use, when the user uses water, the second valve body 200 simultaneously adjusts the cold water channel 201 and the hot water channel 202 to the open state. The cold and hot water enter through the cold water channel 201 and the hot water channel 202 and are processed by the functional container 300 before being output from the outlet channel 203. When the user does not use water, the cold water channel 201 and the hot water channel 202 are simultaneously cut off.
[0074] Method 3: The second valve body 200 can open and close the water flow channel 203, while controlling the cold water flow channel 201 and the hot water flow channel 202 to always be in a conductive state.
[0075] In actual use, when the user uses water, the second valve body 200 adjusts the water outlet channel 203 to a passable state. Hot and cold water enter through the cold water channel 201 and the hot water channel 202 and are processed by the functional container 300 before being output from the water outlet channel 203. When the user does not use water, the water outlet channel 203 is cut off.
[0076] By setting cold water flow channels, hot water flow channels, and outlet water flow channels in the second valve body, the functional container is connected between the outlet water flow channel and the mixing water outlet of the first valve body. In use, the flow channels are controlled by the second valve body to control the flow of water in the functional container. This allows the hot water output from the water heater to be processed by the thermostatic valve core and then purified or mineralized by the functional container before finally flowing out from the outlet water flow channel in the second valve body. Since the functional container is connected between the second and first valve bodies, there is no need to add an additional independent valve for control, thereby reducing the number of valves used, lowering the manufacturing cost of the microbubble shower machine, and reducing its overall size.
[0077] In some embodiments of this application, the functional container 300 can be configured as needed.
[0078] like Figure 1 As shown, a functional container 300 can be connected between the first valve body 100 and the second valve body 200.
[0079] Or, such as Figure 2 As shown, the functional container 300 includes multiple first sub-functional containers 301 connected in series. The multiple first sub-functional containers 301 are connected in series between the first valve and the second valve, thereby achieving the requirements of multiple water quality treatments.
[0080] Or, such as Figure 3 As shown, the functional container 300 includes multiple second sub-functional containers 302 connected in parallel. The arrangement of multiple second sub-functional containers 302 in parallel between the first valve and the second valve can effectively increase the water flow rate, so as to treat the large flow of water through the multiple second sub-functional containers 302.
[0081] For the first valve body 1001, the thermostatic valve core 111 configured inside it realizes the function of constant temperature water output. The specific structural form can refer to the structural form of thermostatic valves in conventional technology, and will not be limited or elaborated here.
[0082] As for the second valve body 200, it needs to meet the requirements of hot and cold water transportation, water flow control, and connection to the functional container 300. Therefore, there are different structural forms for the second valve body 200 to control the opening and closing of different flow paths. The following is an explanation with reference to the attached drawings.
[0083] Example 2, as follows Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the microbubble water generator 400 includes a gasket 1, a first pipe 2, a second pipe 3, and a gas pipe 4, wherein:
[0084] One end of the second pipe 3 is sealed inside the first pipe 2, forming the aforementioned throat between them. A gasket 1 is disposed at the throat of the throat. Exemplarily, a first liquid channel 22 can be formed inside the first pipe 2, and a second liquid channel 31 can be formed inside the second pipe 3. Along the direction pointing towards the gasket 1, the diameters of both the first liquid channel 22 and the second liquid channel 31 gradually decrease near the end of the gasket 1 to form the throat. When water is introduced, the throat generates an adsorption force that draws air into the micro-gap between the gaskets 1, where it is sheared into finer, higher-pressure air, which then mixes with water to form microbubble water.
[0085] At least two gaskets 1 are disposed between the first liquid channel 22 and the second liquid channel 31, and the first liquid channel 22, the at least two gaskets 1, and the second liquid channel 31 are sequentially connected. Water can flow through the first liquid channel 22, through the gaskets 1, and finally out through the second liquid channel 31. Air can enter the throat through the micro-gap between the two gaskets 1 and mix with water to form microbubble water.
[0086] Preferably, one end of the second pipe 3 is threaded to the first pipe 2, and the gasket 1 is clamped between the first pipe 2 and the second pipe 3. The threaded connection between the second pipe 3 and the first pipe 2 achieves a fixed connection between them. More importantly, by screwing on the second pipe 3, the clamping force applied to the gasket 1 by the second pipe 3 and the first pipe 2 can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the size of the micro-gap between the gaskets 1 to meet the requirements for generating different microbubble water.
[0087] In this embodiment, the first pipe 2 is provided with an air inlet and an annular chamber 21 connected to the air inlet. A gas channel 41 is provided in the gas pipe 4 and the gas pipe 4 is sealed to the air inlet so that the gas channel 41 is connected to the annular chamber 21. After the outside air enters the annular chamber 21 through the gas channel 41, it is distributed in an annular shape in the annular chamber 21 and then enters the micro gaps between the gaskets 1 evenly along the circumference of the gaskets 1, so that the microbubble water generation is more uniform and the effect is better.
[0088] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the gas pipe 4 can also be connected to a gas source capable of delivering air, such as an air pump. In this case, the use of a throat tube allows for better mixing of the sheared air with water, resulting in a better microbubble water effect. In this embodiment, the connection between the gas pipe 4 and the first pipe 2 can also be a threaded connection, simultaneously sealed with a sealing ring.
[0089] In this embodiment, the gasket 1 can be set to two or more as needed, thereby forming multiple micro-gaps and making the microbubble water generation faster.
[0090] It is understandable that micro-gap is also formed between the gasket 1 and the first pipe 2 and between the gasket 1 and the second pipe 3 in this embodiment. This micro-gap can also be used to shear air to form tiny gas, which enters the liquid channel at a higher flow rate and mixes with the water in the liquid channel to form microbubble water.
[0091] In this embodiment, it can be referred to Figure 6The surface of the aforementioned gasket 1 has a roughness that creates minute unevenness, resulting in the formation of micro-gaps between the two gaskets 1. Air passing through these micro-gaps is sheared and eventually mixes with water. The micro-gaps are formed solely by the material properties of the gasket 1, eliminating the need for additional structures to assist in the generation of microbubble water. The structure is simple and easy to assemble.
[0092] As another preferred embodiment, a plurality of shear grooves 11 can be formed on the surfaces of the gaskets 1 on both sides along the axial direction, and a micro gap is formed between the shear grooves 11 of two adjacent gaskets 1.
[0093] Optionally, the gasket 1 can be made of a foam-like metal, in which case the shear groove 11 is a cavity or groove in the foam-like metal. Alternatively, the gasket 1 can be made of an alloy material, in which case the shear groove 11 can be created by directional etching. The gasket 1 can also be cast from a porous plate, in which case the shear groove 11 is a cavity or groove on the porous plate. The gasket 1 can also be formed by stacking layers of porous graphite, in which case the shear groove 11 is a cavity or groove on the porous graphite.
[0094] In this embodiment, the plurality of shear grooves 11 can be arranged in parallel or cross-shaped. Figure 6 As shown in the figure, this is to achieve shearing of the air inside the annular chamber 21.
[0095] For reference Figure 6 The aforementioned gasket 1 includes a first sheet 12 and a second sheet 13 arranged in a stepped pattern, which are integrally formed. The diameter of the first sheet 12 is smaller than that of the second sheet 13, and both the first sheet 12 and the second sheet 13 have shearing grooves 11 on their surfaces. With this structure, the gasket 1 forms an annular space with the end face of its adjacent first pipe 2, the end face of its adjacent second pipe 3, and between two adjacent gaskets 1. When air flows into the annular chamber 21, the air in the annular chamber 21 is evenly distributed within the annular space, and then flows evenly into the micro-gap between the gasket 1 and the first liquid channel 22, the micro-gap between the gaskets 1, and the micro-gap between the gasket 1 and the second liquid channel 31, where it is sheared. This shearing process causes the fine air particles formed to be evenly mixed into the water, resulting in more uniform and comprehensive distribution of microbubble water.
[0096] In this embodiment, the gasket 1 has a groove 14 on one side near the first liquid channel 22 and the second liquid channel 31, and protrusions are provided at the end faces of the first pipe 2 and the second pipe 3, which abut against the groove 14. That is, the groove 14 and the protrusions allow the first pipe 2 and the second pipe 3 to clamp the gasket 1, thus fixing the gasket 1. More importantly, it makes the micro-gap formed by the shear groove 11 narrower, thereby shearing the air into finer particles and creating a better microbubble water effect. It should be noted that the sidewall of the groove 14 in this embodiment can also have a shear groove 11.
[0097] For reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The microbubble water generator in this embodiment also includes a third pipe 5, which is sealed to the end of the first pipe 2 away from the gasket 1, and the third pipe 5 has a third liquid channel 51 that communicates with the first liquid channel 22. An inlet 52 communicating with the third liquid channel 51 is provided on the third pipe 5, allowing water to enter the third liquid channel 51 through the inlet 52 and then enter the first liquid channel 22. In this embodiment, one end of the third pipe 5 is placed inside the first pipe 2, and the two are sealed together by a sealing ring.
[0098] Preferably, a detection device 6 is provided at one end of the third pipe 5. This detection device 6 is used to detect flow rate, pressure, and / or temperature. For example, the detection device 6 can be a temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the water flowing into the third liquid channel 51, a pressure sensor to detect the pressure of the water flowing into the third liquid channel 51, or a flow sensor to detect the flow rate of the water flowing into the third liquid channel 51. Devices that simultaneously detect two or more of temperature, pressure, and flow rate can also be used. By detecting flow rate, pressure, and / or temperature, a controller can be used to control the water flow rate, pressure, and temperature to meet different needs.
[0099] In another embodiment, such as Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, in order to adjust the bubble content in the microbubble water generated by the microbubble water generator 400, and thus meet the requirements of different users for microbubble water with different bubble contents, the microbubble water generator also adds a bypass pipe 7. For example, this bypass pipe 7 connects to both sides of the throat of the throat tube. By setting the bypass pipe 7, water can flow through the throat of the throat tube and mix with fine air to form microbubble water, while another part mixes with the formed microbubble water, thereby changing the bubble content in the microbubble water flowing out of the outlet. In this embodiment, one end of the bypass pipe 7 is connected to the inlet 52 of the third pipe 5, and the other end is connected to the second pipe 3 (… Figure 10As shown, the second pipe 3 has a connecting hole 32 that connects to the second liquid channel 31, and the bypass pipe 7 is sealed and connected to the connecting hole 32. In this embodiment, the diameter of the bypass pipe 7 is larger than the maximum diameter of the throat pipe.
[0100] To better achieve stepless adjustment of the bubble content in the microbubble water flowing out of the outlet, the microbubble water generator in this embodiment also includes a distribution valve 8. The inlet of the distribution valve 8 is connected to the inlet 52 of the third pipe 5, and it has two outlets, respectively connected to the bypass pipe 7 and the third liquid channel. Through the distribution valve 8, the ratio of water entering the bypass pipe 7 and the third liquid channel 51 can be adjusted, thereby changing the bubble content of the microbubble water formed in the throat of the throat. Furthermore, by mixing the water in the bypass pipe 7 with the microbubble water formed in the second liquid channel 31, the bubble content of the final microbubble water can be adjusted to meet the requirements of different users. In addition, by setting the distribution valve 8, this embodiment can adjust the pressure of the water entering the throat, thereby preventing excessive water pressure from preventing air from effectively dissolving, thus further increasing the probability of microbubble water generation. The aforementioned distribution valve 8 is a common structure in the prior art, and its structure and principle will not be discussed here.
[0101] In this embodiment, the proportion of water entering the bypass pipe 7 and the third liquid channel 51 is adjusted by the distribution valve 8. Specifically, when the flow rate of water entering the bypass pipe 7 is increased, the flow rate entering the third liquid channel 51 decreases, resulting in less bubble content in the microbubble water. Conversely, when the flow rate of water entering the third liquid channel 51 is decreased, the flow rate of water entering the third liquid channel 51 increases, resulting in more bubble content in the microbubble water. This satisfies users' different requirements for generating microbubble water. Since the diameter of the bypass pipe 7 is larger than the maximum diameter of the throat pipe, adjusting the flow rate of water entering the bypass pipe 7 will change the flow rate of water in the throat pipe, but the overall output flow rate of the microbubble water generator depends on the adjustment of the flow rate of water in the bypass pipe 7. This embodiment can also include a housing 10 to enclose the various components, making the entire microbubble water generator a single module, thus facilitating its application in various water-using equipment fields.
[0102] This embodiment provides a method for controlling the generation of microbubbles. Specifically, the control method of this embodiment includes the following steps:
[0103] S1. Obtain the inlet water pressure into the throat.
[0104] For example, this refers to detecting the pressure of the water entering the third liquid channel using a detection device; this pressure is the inlet water pressure.
[0105] S2. Determine whether the inlet water pressure is greater than the first preset pressure value. If not, proceed to step S3; if yes, proceed to step S4.
[0106] S3. When the inlet water pressure is less than or equal to the first preset pressure value, air is automatically drawn into the throat of the throat tube and mixed with water to form microbubble water.
[0107] When the inlet water pressure is less than or equal to the first preset pressure value, the inlet water pressure will not obstruct the dissolution of air. Therefore, the air can enter the throat and mix with the water simply through the automatic adsorption of the throat, and the resulting microbubble water has sufficient effect.
[0108] S4. When the inlet water pressure is greater than the first preset pressure value, determine whether the inlet water pressure is greater than the second preset pressure value. If not, proceed to step S5; if yes, proceed to step S6.
[0109] In this step, the second preset pressure value is greater than the first preset pressure value.
[0110] S5. When the inlet water pressure is between the first preset pressure value and the second preset pressure value, air is pumped to the throat by an air pump.
[0111] When the inlet water pressure is between the first and second preset pressure values, it can affect the dissolution of air. Therefore, the effect of the microbubble water formed solely through the automatic adsorption of the throat tube will be compromised. Thus, introducing an air pump to pressurize and pump air to the throat, combined with the automatic adsorption of the throat tube, allows the air to dissolve more easily in the water, resulting in a better microbubble water effect.
[0112] S6. When the inlet water pressure is greater than the second preset pressure value, adjust the flow rate of water entering the throat pipe through the distribution valve until the inlet water pressure is less than or equal to the second preset pressure value, and then pump air into the throat through the air pump.
[0113] When the inlet water pressure exceeds the second preset pressure value, it severely impacts air dissolution, and the automatic adsorption mechanism of the throat cannot effectively allow air to dissolve in the water. Furthermore, even with air pumped in at this point, the excessive inlet water pressure still hinders air dissolution. Therefore, the inlet water pressure needs to be adjusted. This can be achieved by using a distribution valve to divert some water through a bypass pipe, ensuring the pressure of the water entering the throat is less than or equal to the second preset pressure value. Then, the air is boosted and pumped into the throat. Combined with the throat's automatic adsorption mechanism, this allows air to dissolve in the water more easily.
[0114] It should be noted that in this step, the distribution valve is usually adjusted so that the pressure of the water entering the throat is equal to the second preset pressure value. However, due to the different control precision of different distribution valves, there may be a situation where the pressure of the water entering the throat is less than the second preset pressure value. Therefore, when it is less than the second preset pressure value, air is also pumped to the throat by an air pump to complete the formation of microbubble water.
[0115] Preferably, in order to better save energy, this embodiment can control the air pump to pump air intermittently when starting the air pump.
[0116] Example 3: The second valve body 200 can selectively open and close the cold water flow channel 201 and the hot water flow channel 202. For example... Figures 11-14 As shown, the second valve body 200 includes a first valve plate 221 and a second valve plate 222. The first valve plate 221 is provided with a first cold water through hole 2211, a second cold water through hole 2212, a first hot water through hole 2213, and a second hot water through hole 2214. The second valve plate 222 is provided with a cold water connecting groove 2221 and a hot water connecting groove 2222. The second valve is attached to the first valve plate 221 and can rotate relative to the first valve plate 221. The cold water connecting groove 2221 selectively connects to the first cold water through hole 2211 and the second cold water through hole 2212, and the hot water connecting groove 2222 selectively connects to the first hot water through hole 2213 and the second hot water through hole 2214. The first cold water through hole 2211, the cold water connecting groove 2221, and the second cold water through hole 2212 constitute a cold water flow channel 201, and the first hot water through hole 2213, the hot water connecting groove 2222, and the second hot water through hole 2214 constitute a hot water flow channel 202.
[0117] Specifically, during the actual assembly process, the first cold water through hole 2211 is connected to the cold water inlet 113, while the first hot water through hole 2213 is connected to the hot water inlet 112.
[0118] During use, when the second valve body 200 controls the cold water channel 201 and the hot water channel 202 to be in a closed state, the cold water connecting groove 2221 connects the first cold water through hole 2211 and the second cold water through hole 2212, and the hot water connecting groove 2222 connects the first hot water through hole 2213 and the second hot water through hole 2214. In this way, cold water from the external tap water pipe flows into the thermostatic valve core 111 through the second cold water through hole 2212, the cold water connecting groove 2221 and the first cold water through hole 2211; similarly, hot water output from the water heater flows into the thermostatic valve core 111 through the second hot water through hole 2214, the hot water connecting groove 2222 and the first hot water through hole 2213.
[0119] When it is necessary to control the disconnection of the cold water channel 201 and the hot water channel 202 through the second valve body 200, the second valve plate 222 is rotated so that the cold water connecting groove 2221 rotates to one side of the first cold water through hole 2211 and the second cold water through hole 2212, thereby disconnecting the first cold water through hole 2211 and the second cold water through hole 2212 from each other; similarly, the hot water connecting groove 2222 rotates to one side of the first hot water through hole 2213 and the second hot water through hole 2214, thereby disconnecting the first hot water through hole 2213 and the second hot water through hole 2214 from each other.
[0120] More importantly, in actual use, the water flow can be controlled by appropriately rotating the second valve plate 222. Specifically, taking cold water flow regulation as an example, after the second valve body 200 controls the cold water connecting channel 2221 and the hot water connecting channel 2222 to be in a conductive state, rotating the second valve plate 222 controls the overlapping area between the cold water connecting channel 2221 and the first cold water through hole 2211 and the second cold water through hole 2212, thereby controlling the amount of cold water entering.
[0121] Similarly, the hot water flow rate will be adjusted synchronously during the rotation of the second valve plate 222.
[0122] Furthermore, the first valve plate 221 is also provided with a first mixing water passage 2215 and a second mixing water passage 2216, and the second valve plate 222 is also provided with a mixing water connecting groove 2223; the mixing water connecting groove 2223 is used to selectively connect the first mixing water passage 2215 and the second mixing water passage 2216, or the mixing water connecting groove 2223 connects the first mixing water passage 2215 and the second mixing water passage 2216; wherein, the first mixing water passage 2215, the mixing water connecting groove 2223 and the second mixing water passage 2216 constitute the water outlet channel 203.
[0123] Specifically, the first mixing through hole 2215 and the second mixing through hole 2216 provided on the first valve plate 221 are connected by the mixing through groove 2223 to form a water outlet channel 203, thereby satisfying the requirement that water output from the functional container 300 is output through the water outlet channel 203.
[0124] According to the design requirements, the two control methods of the water outlet channel 203 can be realized by changing the length of the mixing water connecting groove 2223 or the length of the first mixing water through hole 2215 and the second mixing water through hole 2216. That is, during the rotation of the second valve plate 222, the mixing water connecting groove 2223 is always connected to the first mixing water through hole 2215 and the second mixing water through hole 2216.
[0125] Alternatively, during the rotation of the second valve plate 222, the mixing water connecting groove 2223 can be connected to the first mixing water through hole 2215 and the second mixing water through hole 2216, or disconnected from the first mixing water through hole 2215 and the second mixing water through hole 2216.
[0126] In addition, while rotating the second valve plate 222, the total water output can be further controlled by adjusting the overlapping area of the mixing channel 2223 with the first mixing hole 2215 and the second mixing hole 2216, thereby matching the water output with the water inflow of hot and cold water.
[0127] In another embodiment, the second valve body 200 is used to selectively open and close the water outlet channel 203, while the cold water channel 201 and the hot water channel 202 are always open. Therefore, based on the above description of the structure of the second valve body 200, the first mixing hole 2215 and the second mixing hole 2216 on the first valve plate 221 are selectively connected via a mixing communication groove 2223 provided on the second valve plate 222.
[0128] The first cold water through hole 2211 and the second cold water through hole 2212 on the first valve plate 221 are connected by the cold water connecting groove 2221. Similarly, the first hot water through hole 2213 and the second hot water through hole 2214 are connected by the hot water connecting groove 2222.
[0129] Specifically, during use, by rotating the second valve plate 222, the mixing water connecting groove 2223 can be controlled to control the connection or disconnection of the first mixing water through hole 2215 and the second mixing water through hole 2216, thereby controlling the opening and closing of the mixing water connecting groove 2223.
[0130] Similarly, during the rotation of the second valve plate 222, the area of the overlapping connection between the mixing water passage 2223 and the first mixing water passage 2215 and the second mixing water passage 2216 can be adjusted to further control the total water output.
[0131] In one embodiment of this application, the rotation axis of the second valve plate 222 passes through the first mixing hole 2215, the first mixing hole 2215 is located in the middle of the first valve plate 221, and the second mixing hole 2216 is located on one side of the first mixing hole 2215; the first cold water hole 2211 and the second cold water hole 2212 are arranged side by side on one side of the first mixing hole, and the first hot water hole 2213 and the second hot water hole 2214 are arranged side by side on the other side of the first mixing hole.
[0132] Specifically, the second valve plate 222 can rotate relative to the first valve plate 221. In order to facilitate the connection of the water circuit, the first mixing through hole 2215 is arranged at the axis of rotation of the second valve plate 222. Correspondingly, other through holes are arranged outside the first mixing through hole 2215.
[0133] The first mixing through hole 2215 is connected to the functional container 300. When the second valve plate 222 rotates relative to the first valve plate 221, it drives the multiple connecting grooves on it to rotate, thereby realizing the opening and closing of the corresponding water flow channel and the adjustment of water flow.
[0134] Preferably, in order to meet the requirements of water circuit control and flow regulation during rotation, the second mixing water through hole 2216, the first cold water through hole, the second cold water through hole 2212, the first hot water through hole 2213 and the second hot water through hole 2214 are arc-shaped holes, and the cold water connecting groove 2221 and the hot water connecting groove 2222 are arc-shaped grooves.
[0135] Specifically, the first mixing water through hole 2215 on the first valve plate 221 can be a round hole, while the second mixing water through hole 2216, the first cold water through hole, the second cold water through hole 2212, the first hot water through hole 2213 and the second hot water through hole 2214 are arc-shaped holes. The center of each arc-shaped hole overlaps with the center of the first mixing water through hole 2215 and is located on the axis of rotation of the second valve plate 222.
[0136] In this way, during the rotation of the second valve plate 222, it can be ensured that the corresponding water passage is connected or disconnected from the corresponding connecting groove, thereby improving the reliability of use.
[0137] In one embodiment of this application, the microbubble shower machine further includes a hot water inlet pipe (not shown) and a cold water inlet pipe (not shown). The hot water inlet pipe is connected to the hot water flow channel 202, and the cold water inlet pipe is connected to the cold water flow channel 201. A filter screen (not shown) is provided in the hot water inlet pipe and / or the cold water inlet pipe.
[0138] Specifically, since the microbubble shower machine needs to be installed in the user's home and connected to the tap water pipe and the water outlet pipe of the water heater during use, hot water inlet pipe and cold water inlet pipe are configured to meet the requirements of connecting to the user's home pipeline.
[0139] More importantly, in order to extend the lifespan of the functional container 300 and the thermostatic valve core 111 in the microbubble shower machine, filter screens can be installed in the hot water inlet pipe and the cold water inlet pipe. The filter screens can filter the water entering the first valve body 100 and the second valve body 200 to remove larger particles in the water flow, thereby preventing particles from clogging the functional container 300 and the thermostatic valve core 111.
[0140] 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.
[0141] 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 microbubble bath machine, characterized in that, include: A first valve body is provided with a thermostatic valve core, which is provided with a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet and a mixed water outlet. The second valve body is provided with a cold water flow channel, a hot water flow channel and an outlet water flow channel; Functional container; A microbubble water generator includes a throat and gaskets. The gaskets are stacked along the axial direction of the throat and disposed at the throat of the throat. Air can enter the throat through the micro gaps between the gaskets and mix with water to form microbubble water. The cold water channel is connected to the cold water inlet, the hot water channel is connected to the hot water inlet, the functional container is connected between the mixed water outlet and the outlet channel, and the throat is connected to the outlet channel. Additionally, the second valve body is used to selectively open and close the cold water flow channel and the hot water flow channel; and / or, the second valve body is used to selectively open and close the outlet water flow channel; The microbubble water generator includes a first pipe and a second pipe with one end sealed inside the first pipe, and the throat is formed between the first pipe and the second pipe. The gasket has a plurality of shear grooves on its surfaces on both sides along the axial direction. The shear grooves form the micro gaps between the end face of the first pipe, between the shear grooves of two adjacent gaskets, and between the shear grooves and the end face of the second pipe. The gasket includes a first sheet and a second sheet distributed in a stepped manner, and the diameter of the first sheet is smaller than the diameter of the second sheet.
2. The microbubble bath machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, One end of the second pipe is threaded to the first pipe, and the gasket is sandwiched between the first pipe and the second pipe.
3. The microbubble bath machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first pipe is provided with an annular chamber, and air enters the annular chamber and then enters the micro-gap between the gaskets; The microbubble water generator includes a gas pipe with a gas channel that is connected to the annular chamber.
4. The microbubble bath machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The microbubble water generator includes a bypass pipe and a distribution valve. The bypass pipe connects to both sides of the throat of the throat tube. The distribution valve is used to adjust the ratio of water flowing into the throat tube inlet and the bypass pipe.
5. The microbubble bath machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The functional container includes a plurality of first sub-functional containers connected in series; or, the functional container includes a plurality of second sub-functional containers connected in parallel.
6. The microbubble bath machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second valve body is used to selectively open and close the cold water flow channel and the hot water flow channel; The second valve body includes a first valve plate and a second valve plate. The first valve plate is provided with a first cold water through hole, a second cold water through hole, a first hot water through hole, and a second hot water through hole. The second valve plate is provided with a cold water connecting groove and a hot water connecting groove. The second valve is attached to the first valve plate and can rotate relative to the first valve plate. The cold water connecting groove selectively connects the first cold water through hole and the second cold water through hole, and the hot water connecting groove selectively connects the first hot water through hole and the second hot water through hole. The first cold water through hole, the cold water connecting groove, and the second cold water through hole constitute the cold water flow channel, and the first hot water through hole, the hot water connecting groove, and the second hot water through hole constitute the hot water flow channel.
7. The microbubble bath machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first valve plate is also provided with a first mixing water passage and a second mixing water passage, and the second valve plate is also provided with a mixing water connecting groove. The mixing channel is used to selectively connect the first mixing hole and the second mixing hole, or the mixing channel connects the first mixing hole and the second mixing hole; wherein the first mixing hole, the mixing channel, and the second mixing hole constitute the water outlet channel.
8. The microbubble bath machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second valve body is used to selectively open or close the water outlet channel; The second valve body includes a first valve plate and a second valve plate. The first valve plate is further provided with a first mixing water passage and a second mixing water passage. The second valve plate is further provided with a mixing water connecting groove. The mixing water connecting groove is used to selectively connect the first mixing water passage and the second mixing water passage. The first mixing water passage, the mixing water connecting groove, and the second mixing water passage together constitute the water outlet channel.
9. The microbubble bath machine according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first valve plate is further provided with a first cold water through hole, a second cold water through hole, a first hot water through hole, and a second hot water through hole; the second valve plate is provided with a cold water connecting groove and a hot water connecting groove; the second valve is attached to the first valve plate and can rotate relative to the first valve plate; the cold water connecting groove selectively connects the first cold water through hole and the second cold water through hole, and the hot water connecting groove selectively connects the first hot water through hole and the second hot water through hole; wherein, the first cold water through hole, the cold water connecting groove, and the second cold water through hole constitute the cold water flow channel, and the first hot water through hole, the hot water connecting groove, and the second hot water through hole constitute the hot water flow channel.