Water heater outlet temperature control method

Abstract

The application discloses a water heater outlet water temperature control method, and relates to the technical field of water heaters, in particular to a water heater outlet water temperature control method, which comprises a water heater main body and a flow regulating valve. The water heater main body is provided with a total water inlet port and a total water outlet port, and is further provided with a heating mechanism. The flow regulating valve is provided with a water inlet pipe, a first water outlet pipe and a second water outlet pipe. The water inlet pipe is connected with the total water inlet port, the first water outlet pipe is connected with the inlet of the heating mechanism, and the second water outlet pipe and the outlet of the heating mechanism are respectively connected with the total water outlet port. The control method comprises the following steps: when the water is turned off for a set time length and then used again, the water quantity of the first water outlet pipe is reduced and the water quantity of the second water outlet pipe is increased; and then, according to the temperature of the total water outlet port, the water quantity of the first water outlet pipe is gradually increased and the water quantity of the second water outlet pipe is gradually reduced. The water flow is accurately regulated by the flow regulating valve, so that the water outlet water temperature fluctuation of the water heater is reduced, and the user experience is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of household appliance technology, and in particular relates to a method for controlling the outlet water temperature of a water heater. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, water heaters are common household appliances. Based on their heat source, water heaters can be categorized into gas water heaters, electric water heaters, and solar water heaters. During use, the hot water output from the water heater is supplied to the user via a terminal device (such as a faucet or showerhead).

[0003] In actual use, water heaters experience temperature changes when the water is turned off and then turned back on for a short period. Taking gas water heaters as an example, during normal use, when the user turns off the water and then turns it back on, the water temperature initially rises, then falls, and then stabilizes, thus affecting the user experience.

[0004] Therefore, the technical problem to be solved by this invention is how to design a technology to accurately regulate water flow to reduce water temperature fluctuations. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides a method for controlling the outlet water temperature of a water heater. By using a flow regulating valve to accurately adjust the water flow rate, the water temperature fluctuation of the water heater is reduced, thereby improving the user experience.

[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 method for controlling the outlet water temperature of a water heater, comprising a water heater body and a flow regulating valve. The water heater body is provided with a main water inlet port and a main water outlet port. The water heater body is also provided with a heating mechanism. The flow regulating valve has an inlet pipe, a first outlet pipe and a second outlet pipe. The inlet pipe is connected to the main water inlet port, the first outlet pipe is connected to the inlet of the heating mechanism, and the second outlet pipe and the outlet of the heating mechanism are respectively connected to the main water outlet port.

[0008] The control method includes: when the water is turned off for a set time and water is used again, first reduce the water flow of the first water outlet pipe and increase the water flow of the second water outlet pipe; then, according to the temperature of the total water outlet port, gradually increase the water flow of the first water outlet pipe and decrease the water flow of the second water outlet pipe.

[0009] In one embodiment of this application, the flow regulating valve has a first position, a second position, and a third position;

[0010] When the flow regulating valve is in the first position, the opening of the first outlet pipe is at its maximum, and the second outlet pipe is in the closed state; when the flow regulating valve is in the third position, the opening of the first outlet pipe is at its minimum, and the opening of the second outlet pipe is at its maximum.

[0011] When the flow regulating valve moves from the first position to the second position, the opening of the first outlet pipe gradually decreases and the second outlet pipe is closed; conversely, the opening of the first outlet pipe gradually increases.

[0012] When the flow regulating valve moves from the second position to the third position, the opening of the first outlet pipe gradually decreases, and the opening of the second outlet pipe gradually increases. Conversely, when the flow regulating valve moves from the second position to the third position, the opening of the first outlet pipe gradually increases, and the opening of the second outlet pipe gradually decreases.

[0013] In one embodiment of this application, when the flow regulating valve is in the third position, the opening degree of the first outlet pipe and the second outlet pipe is the same.

[0014] In one embodiment of this application, the control method includes: when the water is turned off and used again within a set time, the flow regulating valve first runs between a second position and a third position, and after the water temperature at the main outlet port stabilizes, the flow regulating valve runs from the second position to the first position.

[0015] In one embodiment of this application, if the interval between turning off the water and using it again exceeds a set time, the flow regulating valve first operates in the second position, and after the water temperature at the main outlet port stabilizes, the flow regulating valve operates from the second position to the first position.

[0016] In one embodiment of this application, the control method further includes:

[0017] Obtain the heating status of the heating mechanism;

[0018] Obtain the outlet water temperature of the main outlet port;

[0019] The flow regulating valve is controlled according to the heating status and the temperature of the water outlet.

[0020] In one embodiment of this application, during the normal operation of the water heater to heat and output hot water, when the heating power of the heating mechanism is at its maximum value and the outlet water temperature at the main outlet port is less than a preset temperature value, the flow regulating valve moves from a first position to a second position until the temperature at the main outlet port equals the preset temperature value.

[0021] In one embodiment of this application, when the flow regulating valve is running from the second position to the third position, the opening of the water inlet pipe gradually decreases, and conversely, the opening of the water inlet pipe gradually increases.

[0022] In one embodiment of this application, when the flow regulating valve is operating between a first position and a second position, the opening degree of the water inlet pipe remains unchanged.

[0023] In one embodiment of this application, the flow regulating valve includes:

[0024] A valve housing, on which an inlet pipe, a first outlet pipe, and a second outlet pipe are provided;

[0025] A first flow control component, the first flow control component includes a rotating moving component and a first blocking component, the first blocking component being disposed on the rotating moving component;

[0026] The second flow control component includes a mounting component and a second blocking component, wherein the second blocking component is disposed on the mounting component;

[0027] Drive components;

[0028] The driving component is connected to the rotating moving component and is used to drive the rotating moving component to rotate. The rotating moving component rotates relative to the valve housing and also moves relative to it. The first blocking component is disposed inside the valve housing and located on one side of the first water outlet pipe. The first blocking component is used to control the flow rate of the first water outlet pipe. The mounting component is slidably disposed on the rotating moving component. The second blocking component is arranged opposite to the second water outlet pipe and is used to control the flow rate of the second water outlet pipe.

[0029] Compared with the prior art, the advantages and positive effects of the present invention are: by adjusting the flow rate of the two water outlet pipes through the flow regulating valve, when the water is turned off for a set time and then used again, the amount of cold water entering the heating mechanism can be reduced and the amount of cold water flowing directly to the main water outlet can be increased, thereby increasing the mixing ratio of hot and cold water, thereby reducing the fluctuation range of water temperature and improving the user's showering experience.

[0030] By setting a valve core assembly in the valve body, the driving component in the valve core assembly can drive the first flow control component and the second flow control component to move inside the valve body. The first flow control component can continuously adjust the flow rate of the first outlet pipe during the movement, thereby meeting the purpose of adjusting the water flow to meet the changes in the heating power of the water heater. The second flow control component can adjust the bypass flow rate to accurately control the mixing amount of hot and cold water during the short-term switching of water, thereby reducing the fluctuation of the water temperature at the outlet of the water heater. By accurately adjusting the water flow through the flow regulating valve to reduce the fluctuation of the water temperature at the outlet of the water heater, the user experience is improved. Attached Figure Description

[0031] 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.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the flow regulating valve of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 2 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the flow regulating valve of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 3 This is a partial exploded view of an embodiment of the flow regulating valve of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 4 This is a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the flow regulating valve of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 5 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the valve shell in an embodiment of the flow regulating valve of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 6 This is a second schematic diagram of the valve housing structure in an embodiment of the flow regulating valve of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve housing in an embodiment of the flow regulating valve of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 8 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the first blocking component in an embodiment of the flow regulating valve of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 9 This is a second schematic diagram of the structure of the first blocking component in an embodiment of the flow regulating valve of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the flow regulating valve of the present invention in its first position;

[0042] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the flow regulating valve of the present invention between the first position and the second position;

[0043] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the flow regulating valve of the present invention in the second position;

[0044] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the flow regulating valve of the present invention between the second and third positions;

[0045] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the flow regulating valve of the present invention in the third position;

[0046] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the water heater of the present invention.

[0047] Figure label:

[0048] Valve housing 1;

[0049] Inlet pipe 11, first outlet pipe 12, second outlet pipe 13;

[0050] First partition 121, first outlet 122, auxiliary outlet 123, second partition 131, second outlet 132, support hole 133, groove structure 134;

[0051] Valve core assembly 2;

[0052] Drive component 21, first flow control component 22, second flow control component 23, bushing 24, first sealing ring 25, second sealing ring 26, connecting rod 27;

[0053] Rotary moving part 221, first blocking part 222, baffle 223;

[0054] Sliding guide part 2211, threaded part 2212;

[0055] Water inlet 2221, water tank 2222, shielding extension 2223, connecting hole 2224;

[0056] Mounting component 231, second shielding component 232, elastic component 233, spring seat 234. Detailed Implementation

[0057] 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.

[0058] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," which indicate directional or positional relationships, are based on the directional 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.

[0059] Example 1, as Figure 15 As shown, the present invention provides a method for controlling the outlet water temperature of a water heater, wherein the water heater includes a water heater body, the water heater body is provided with a main water inlet port 1000 and a main water outlet port 2000, the water heater body is also provided with a heating mechanism 3000, and also includes the aforementioned flow regulating valve 4000; the inlet pipe of the flow regulating valve is connected to the main water inlet port, the first outlet pipe of the flow regulating valve is connected to the inlet of the heating mechanism, and the second outlet pipe of the flow regulating valve and the outlet of the heating mechanism are respectively connected to the main water outlet port.

[0060] The control method includes: when the water is turned off for a set time and water is used again, first reduce the water flow of the first water outlet pipe and increase the water flow of the second water outlet pipe; then, according to the temperature of the total water outlet port, gradually increase the water flow of the first water outlet pipe and decrease the water flow of the second water outlet pipe.

[0061] Specifically, the water heater heats the water flowing into it through a heating mechanism, while the second outlet pipe of the flow regulating valve 4000 can be connected to the water pipe between the heating mechanism 3000 and the main outlet port 2000 through a bypass pipe 5000, thereby enabling the direct delivery of cold water to the main outlet port 2000 through the bypass pipe 5000 to achieve the mixing of hot and cold water.

[0062] When users turn off the water heater briefly and then use it again (i.e., reusing water), the water temperature in the heating element is relatively high. If a large flow of cold water enters the heating element, it will output high-temperature hot water after the heating element starts, causing the water temperature at the main outlet of the water heater to rise, which may easily scald the user.

[0063] Therefore, when the water is turned off after a set time and then used again, the flow control valve adjusts the cold water flow distribution. Specifically, it reduces the water flow from the first outlet pipe and increases the water flow from the second outlet pipe. At this time, at the main outlet of the water heater, the cold water supplied by the flow control valve through the bypass pipe 5000 mixes with the hot water output from the heating mechanism 3000. The resulting mixed water temperature is closer to the set outlet temperature, improving the user's showering experience.

[0064] The flow regulating valve has three position states: the first position, the second position, and the third position.

[0065] When the flow regulating valve is in the first position, the opening of the first outlet pipe is at its maximum, and the second outlet pipe is in the closed state; when the flow regulating valve is in the third position, the opening of the first outlet pipe is at its minimum, and the opening of the second outlet pipe is at its maximum.

[0066] When the flow regulating valve moves from the first position to the second position, the opening of the first outlet pipe gradually decreases and the second outlet pipe is closed; conversely, the opening of the first outlet pipe gradually increases.

[0067] When the flow regulating valve moves from the second position to the third position, the opening of the first outlet pipe gradually decreases, and the opening of the second outlet pipe gradually increases. Conversely, when the flow regulating valve moves from the second position to the third position, the opening of the first outlet pipe gradually increases, and the opening of the second outlet pipe gradually decreases.

[0068] When the flow regulating valve is in the third position, the opening degree of the first outlet pipe and the second outlet pipe is the same.

[0069] Thus, during secondary water use, the flow regulating valve first operates between the second and third positions, and after the water temperature at the main outlet port stabilizes, the flow regulating valve moves from the second position to the first position.

[0070] Specifically, at the beginning of the secondary water use process, due to the temporary storage of hot water in the heating mechanism, the flow regulating valve can be adjusted to the third position. At this time, the amount of water entering the heating mechanism is reduced, and the heat from the heating mechanism can be released more slowly by using a smaller water flow, thus lowering the highest temperature. After absorbing the heat from the heating mechanism, the water can be mixed with the cold water transported by the bypass pipe 5000 to heat up faster, raising the lowest temperature and thus stabilizing the water temperature at the main outlet port 2000.

[0071] In other embodiments, if the interval between turning off the water and using it again exceeds a set time, the flow regulating valve first operates in the second position, and after the water temperature at the main outlet port stabilizes, the flow regulating valve operates from the second position to the first position.

[0072] Specifically, when the water heater is started normally without secondary water use, the initial position of the flow regulating valve is in the second position. At this time, the water inside the heating mechanism 3000 is also cold water, and the water flow into the heating mechanism 3000 is in a limited state so that the heating mechanism 3000 can quickly heat the flowing water after it starts working to meet the requirement of quickly increasing the outlet water temperature of the main outlet port 2000.

[0073] In another embodiment, during normal operation of the water heater, the user continuously uses hot water through a water terminal (faucet or showerhead), and the control method further includes:

[0074] Obtain the heating status of the heating mechanism;

[0075] Obtain the outlet water temperature of the main outlet port;

[0076] The flow regulating valve is controlled according to the heating status and the temperature of the water outlet.

[0077] Specifically, during continuous hot water use, the controller (such as a microcontroller or other control element) in the water heater obtains the operating parameters of the water heater based on the detection components (such as sensors), and adjusts and controls the flow regulating valve according to the operating reference of the water heater.

[0078] During normal operation of the water heater, when the heating power of the heating mechanism is at its maximum value and the outlet water temperature at the main outlet port is less than the preset temperature value, the flow regulating valve moves from the first position to the second position until the temperature at the main outlet port equals the preset temperature value.

[0079] Specifically, if the water temperature drops during hot water use, the heating mechanism will increase its heating power. If the temperature at the main water outlet is still lower than the preset temperature when the heating power of the heating mechanism is increased to the maximum value, the flow regulating valve will be adjusted from the first position to the second position to reduce the water flow entering the heating mechanism 3000.

[0080] In another embodiment of this application, in addition to regulating the water flow of the two outlet pipes, the flow regulating valve can also further regulate the flow of the inlet pipe. When the flow regulating valve is running from the second position to the third position, the opening of the inlet pipe gradually decreases, and conversely, the opening of the inlet pipe gradually increases.

[0081] Specifically, in the case of secondary water use, the total water inlet of the water heater's main inlet port 1000 can be reduced overall, allowing for better adjustment of the hot and cold water mixing ratio. Furthermore, to meet the need for wide-range water flow adjustment during normal use, the opening of the inlet pipe remains unchanged when the flow regulating valve operates between the first and second positions. This allows the flow rate delivered to the heating mechanism 3000 via the first outlet pipe to meet the constant temperature water output requirements by adjusting the switch of the first outlet pipe.

[0082] Example 2, as Figures 1-9 As shown, the flow regulating valve in the above embodiment includes:

[0083] Valve housing 1, which is provided with inlet pipe 11, first outlet pipe 12 and second outlet pipe 13;

[0084] Valve core assembly 2 includes a drive component 21, a first flow control component 22, and a second flow control component 23. The first flow control component 22 and the second flow control component 23 are disposed inside the valve housing 1. The first flow control component 22 is arranged at the first water outlet pipe 12 and is used to control the flow rate of the first water outlet pipe 12. The second flow control component 23 is arranged at the second water outlet pipe 13 and is used to control the flow rate of the second water outlet pipe 13.

[0085] The flow regulating valve has a first position, a second position, and a third position.

[0086] During the sequential operation of the flow regulating valve from the first position, the second position, and the third position, the driving component 21 drives the first flow control component 22 to gradually reduce the flow rate of the first outlet pipe 12. During the reverse operation, the driving component 21 drives the first flow control component 22 to gradually increase the flow rate of the first outlet pipe 12.

[0087] During the process of the flow regulating valve moving from the second position to the third position, the driving component 21 drives the second flow control component 23 to gradually increase the flow rate of the first outlet pipe 12. During the reverse operation, the driving component 21 drives the second flow control component 23 to gradually decrease the flow rate of the first outlet pipe 12.

[0088] Specifically, the flow regulating valve is assembled from a valve housing 1 and a valve core assembly 2. The valve housing 1 is equipped with an inlet pipe 11, a first outlet pipe 12 and a second outlet pipe 13, so that the valve housing 1 has a three-way structure.

[0089] During assembly, the drive component 21, the first flow control component 22, and the second flow control component 23 are assembled onto the valve housing 1. The drive component 21 can drive the first flow control component 22 and the second flow control component 23 to move inside the valve housing 1. The moving first flow control component 22 can adjust the water flow rate of the first water outlet pipe 12. Similarly, the second flow control component 23 can adjust the water flow rate of the second water outlet pipe 13.

[0090] The flow regulating valve has three specific positions: In the first position, the first flow control component 22 controls the first outlet pipe 12 to be at its maximum opening, and the second flow control component 23 closes the second outlet pipe 13; In the second position, the second flow control component 23 is in a critical state of opening and closing the second outlet pipe 13; In the third position, the first flow control component 22 controls the first outlet pipe 12 to be at its minimum opening, and the second flow control component 23 controls the second outlet pipe 13 to be at its maximum opening.

[0091] In one embodiment of this application, during the process of the flow regulating valve moving from the first position to the second position, the second flow control component 23 closes the second water outlet pipe 13, and during the reverse operation, the second flow control component 23 closes the second water outlet pipe 13.

[0092] In practical applications, the flow regulating valve is installed on the water heater. A water heater typically includes a main body with a main inlet port and a main outlet port. The main body also includes a heating mechanism and the aforementioned flow regulating valve. The inlet pipe of the flow regulating valve is connected to the main inlet port, the first outlet pipe of the flow regulating valve is connected to the inlet of the heating mechanism, and the second outlet pipe of the flow regulating valve and the outlet of the heating mechanism are respectively connected to the main outlet port. The main inlet port is connected to the water supply pipe (such as a tap) in the user's home, while the main outlet port is connected to a water-using terminal (such as a showerhead or faucet) through the user's water pipe.

[0093] In practical use, it is used to open the water terminal to output hot water. At this time, the heating mechanism is activated to heat the water flowing through it.

[0094] like Figures 10-14 As shown, the dashed arrows represent the direction of water flow.

[0095] During normal heating process, such as Figure 10 As shown, the flow regulating valve is in the first position. At this time, the first flow control component 22 adjusts the first outlet pipe 12 to the maximum opening to obtain the maximum water flow. At the same time, the second flow control component 23 is in the position of closing the second outlet pipe 13, that is, the bypass flow path is cut off.

[0096] During normal water use, the power of the heating mechanism may decrease due to external factors. In this case, it is necessary to adjust the flow rate of the first outlet pipe 12. The flow regulating valve will then switch between the first and second positions. Figure 11 As shown, the drive component 21 actuates, thereby driving the first flow control component 22 and the second flow control component 23. The first flow control component 22 adjusts the opening of the first water outlet pipe 12 to reduce the water flow and thus maintain a constant water temperature output by the water heater. The second flow control component 23 does not open the second water outlet pipe 13. During this process, based on the difference between the water outlet temperature and the set temperature, the drive component 21 drives the first flow control component 22 to move in both directions, thereby dynamically adjusting the water outlet temperature.

[0097] If the water temperature from the water heater remains consistently high, it is necessary to further reduce the water flow into the heating element and simultaneously activate the bypass flow. At this time, the flow regulating valve will change between the second and third positions, actuating the drive component 21 to activate the first flow control component 22 and the second flow control component 23. The first flow control component 22 will correspondingly decrease the opening of the first outlet pipe 12 to reduce the water flow, and conversely, it will correspondingly increase the opening of the first outlet pipe 12 to increase the water flow. Thus, by changing between the second and third positions, the water control device can regulate the water flow ratio between the first outlet pipe 12 and the second outlet pipe 13, thereby dynamically adjusting the bypass ratio to maintain a constant water temperature output from the water heater.

[0098] In addition, when the user uses the water heater normally, and then uses the water twice in a short period of time, the flow regulating valve will change between the second and third positions to reduce the flow of cold water into the heating unit and increase the mixing ratio of hot and cold water output by the heating unit. This will increase the minimum temperature of the water flowing out of the water heater and decrease the maximum temperature of the water flowing out of the water heater, thereby meeting the requirement of constant temperature water output from the water heater and improving the user's showering experience.

[0099] In one embodiment of this application, the first flow control component 22 includes a rotating moving component 221 and a first blocking component 222, wherein the first blocking component 222 is disposed on the rotating moving component 221;

[0100] The second flow control component 23 includes a mounting component 231 and a second blocking component 232, wherein the second blocking component 232 is disposed on the mounting component 231;

[0101] The driving component 21 is connected to the rotating moving component 221 and is used to drive the rotating moving component 221 to rotate. The rotating moving component 221 rotates relative to the valve housing 1 and moves relative to it. The first blocking component 222 is disposed inside the valve housing 1 and located on one side of the first water outlet pipe 12. The mounting component 231 is slidably disposed on the rotating moving component 221. The second blocking component 232 is arranged opposite to the second water outlet pipe 13.

[0102] Specifically, for the first flow control component 22, the rotating moving component 221 is connected to the drive component 21 outside the valve housing 1, so that the drive component 21 drives the rotating moving component 221 to rotate. During the rotation of the rotating moving component 221 relative to the valve housing 1 driven by the drive component 21, the rotating moving component 221 can also move relative to the valve housing 1 along its axis.

[0103] Thus, during the process of adjusting the opening of the first outlet pipe 12 to control the water flow rate, the first blocking component 222 is arranged on one side of the pipe opening of the first outlet pipe 12, and the flow rate of the first outlet pipe 12 is adjusted by rotation. The first blocking component 222 adjusts the flow rate of the first outlet pipe 12 by rotation, making the flow rate adjustment more precise and achieving the requirement of gradual and step-by-step adjustment to meet the adjustment requirements of the water flow rate entering the heating mechanism under different operating conditions of the water heater.

[0104] During the process of adjusting the opening of the second water outlet pipe 13 to control the water flow, the second blocking component 232 is arranged opposite to the opening of the second water outlet pipe 13, and the flow rate of the second water outlet pipe 13 is adjusted by relative movement. The second blocking component 232 adjusts the flow rate of the second water outlet pipe 13 by relative movement, making the flow rate adjustment more efficient and quickly adjusting the water temperature so that the water heater can meet the requirement of constant temperature water output.

[0105] In another embodiment of this application, the first shielding component 222 is a sleeve structure, and a water flow channel is formed between the first shielding component 222 and the rotating moving component 221. A water inlet 2221 is provided on the side wall of the first shielding component 222. The water flowing in from the inlet pipe 11 flows into the first outlet pipe 12 through the water flow channel and the water inlet 2221 in sequence.

[0106] Specifically, in order to facilitate the adjustment of the flow rate of the first water outlet pipe 12 by rotation, the first blocking component 222 adopts a sleeve structure. The first blocking component 222 is set on the rotating moving component 221 and rotates with it. The water inlet 2221 can rotate relative to the opening of the first water outlet pipe 12. During the rotation, the overlapping area between the water inlet 2221 and the opening of the first water outlet pipe 12 will change, thereby dynamically adjusting the flow rate of the first water outlet pipe 12.

[0107] In one embodiment, a water trough 2222 communicating with the water inlet 2221 is also provided on the outer surface of the side wall of the first shielding member 222. The water trough 2222 extends about the axis of the rotating moving member 221 in a direction away from the water inlet 2221.

[0108] Specifically, during the adjustment process, the water flow rate of the first outlet pipe 12 can be quickly adjusted by adjusting the overlap area between the water inlet 2221 and the opening of the first outlet pipe 12. After the water inlet 2221 and the opening of the first outlet pipe 12 are separated, the water tank 2222 remains connected to the opening of the first outlet pipe 12, thereby allowing for more precise adjustment of the water flow rate through the water tank 2222.

[0109] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the water flow in the water tank 2222 gradually decreases in the direction away from the water inlet 2221 around the axis of the rotating moving component 221. Specifically, the cross-sectional area of ​​the water flow in the water tank 2222 is in a gradually changing state, so that the water flow rate at the outlet of the first water pipe can be adjusted more precisely and finely during the process of the driving component 21 driving the rotating moving component 221 to rotate in one direction.

[0110] The gradient structure of the water tank 2222 enables more precise adjustment during high-precision bypass ratio adjustment, thereby accurately regulating the outlet water temperature of the water heater to meet more precise water temperature regulation.

[0111] In some embodiments, a first baffle 121 is provided in the first water outlet pipe 12, and a first water outlet 122 is provided on the first baffle 121. The first water outlet 122 is used to communicate with the water inlet 2221 and the water tank 2222.

[0112] Specifically, in order to conveniently control the opening of the first water outlet pipe 12 and precisely adjust the water flow, a first water outlet 122 is provided on the first partition 121 to cooperate with the water inlet 2221 and the water tank 2222. As the first blocking component 222 rotates with the rotating moving component 221, the water inlet 2221 and the water tank 2222 can rotate relative to the first water outlet 122 and achieve communication, thereby more precisely controlling the water flow of the first water outlet pipe 12.

[0113] In some embodiments, an auxiliary water outlet 123 is also provided on the first partition 121, and the water inlet pipe 11 is connected to the auxiliary water outlet 123.

[0114] Specifically, by configuring an auxiliary water outlet 123 on the first partition 121, the auxiliary water outlet 123 is in a normally open state and is always connected to the water inlet pipe 11. In this way, the basic water flow requirements of the first water outlet pipe 12 can be guaranteed through the auxiliary water outlet 123.

[0115] The first outlet 122 can be a strip-shaped hole, which extends around the axis of the rotating moving component 221.

[0116] Specifically, the first outlet 122 of the strip-shaped hole structure can better cooperate with the water inlet 2221 and water tank 2222 on the rotating first blocking component 222. During the rotation of the first blocking component 222, the water inlet 2221 and water tank 2222 will overlap and cooperate sequentially along the length direction of the first outlet 122, thereby improving the degree of cooperation and satisfying the function of precisely controlling the water flow rate.

[0117] Since the first partition 121 is equipped with a first water outlet 122 and an auxiliary water outlet 123, in order to more accurately control and adjust the water flow of the first water outlet pipe 12, during the sequential operation of the flow regulating valve from the first position, the second position and the third position, the first water outlet 122 is connected to the water inlet 2221 and the water tank 2222 in sequence.

[0118] In another embodiment, a second baffle 131 is provided in the second water outlet pipe 13, and a second water outlet 132 is provided on the second baffle 131.

[0119] Specifically, for the second outlet pipe 13, in order to meet the requirements of precise water flow control, a second baffle 131 can be installed inside the second outlet pipe 13, and a second outlet 132 is correspondingly installed on the second baffle 131. The second outlet 132 is arranged opposite to the second flow control component 23. During the flow control process, the second flow control component 23 will move with the rotating moving component 221. During the movement of the second flow control component 23, the second blocking component 232 can open and close the second outlet 132, and the water flow of the second outlet 132 can be precisely adjusted by controlling the distance between the second blocking component 232 and the second outlet 132.

[0120] In one embodiment, the auxiliary outlet 123 and the second outlet 132 are designed with the same water outlet area. Thus, when the flow regulating valve is in the third position, the first outlet 122 is blocked by the first blocking component 222, and water enters the first outlet pipe 12 through the auxiliary outlet 123. Simultaneously, the second outlet 132 in the second outlet pipe 13 is fully open. This ensures that the water flow rates of the auxiliary outlet 123 and the second outlet 132 are essentially the same, thereby satisfying the requirement that the water flow rates of the first outlet pipe 12 and the second outlet pipe 13 are essentially the same.

[0121] In this state, the flow regulating valve controls the water flow through the small area of ​​the auxiliary outlet 123 and the second outlet 132, thereby reducing the total water intake of the flow regulating valve, making the heat released from the heating mechanism in the water heater more slowly, and making the minimum temperature of the mixed water larger, closer to the target outlet water temperature, so as to improve the user experience.

[0122] In one embodiment, in order to securely install the rotating moving part 221 and ensure that the rotating moving part 221 can rotate inside the valve body 1 while also moving smoothly, a support hole 133 is also provided on the second partition 131, and the other end of the rotating moving part 221 is inserted into the support hole 133.

[0123] Specifically, during assembly, the rotating moving component 221 is inserted into the valve housing 1, with one end of the rotating moving component 221 inserted into the support hole 133, and the other end connected to the drive component 21 outside the valve housing 1. In this way, both ends of the rotating moving component 221 can obtain good support, ensuring that the rotating moving component 221 can rotate and move stably within the valve housing 1.

[0124] In some embodiments, to ensure that the second outlet pipe 13 is closed when the flow regulating valve is operating between the first and second positions, and open when operating between the second and third positions, the mounting component 231 is also designed as a sleeve structure. The mounting component 231 is fitted onto the rotating moving component 221, and an elastic component 233 is provided between the mounting component 231 and the rotating moving component 221. The elastic component 233 is used to apply a spring force to the mounting component 231 in the direction of the second partition 131. A baffle 223 is provided at the other end of the rotating moving component 221, and the baffle 223 is located between the second partition 131 and the mounting component 231.

[0125] Specifically, the mounting component 231 is fitted onto the rotating moving component 221, and the mounting component 231 is slidable relative to the rotating moving component 221. The elastic component 233 is designed to apply elastic force to the mounting component 231.

[0126] When the flow regulating valve is in the first position and the second position, there is a certain gap between the baffle 223 and the mounting component 231. The elastic component 233 applies elastic force to the mounting component 231 so that the mounting component 231 does not move relative to the valve body 1, and the second outlet 132 on the second partition 131 is closed by the second blocking component 232. At this time, the rotating moving component 221 can rotate and move relative to the mounting component 231.

[0127] When the flow regulating valve is in the second position and the third position, the baffle 223 will abut against the mounting component 231 so that the mounting component 231 moves together with the rotating moving component 221. At this time, the second blocking component 232 will open the second outlet 132.

[0128] Among them, the elastic component 233 is a spring, and the rotating moving component 221 is provided with a stepped surface; the mounting component 231 is provided with a spring seat 234 inside, and the spring seat 234 is provided with a through hole (unmarked). The rotating moving component 221 passes through the through hole, and the spring is sleeved on the rotating moving component 221. The spring is located between the spring seat 234 and the stepped surface.

[0129] Specifically, the spring is also fitted around the outside of the rotating moving part 221, located between the stepped surface and the spring seat 234, so that the spring force can be applied to the mounting part 231.

[0130] In another embodiment, in order to better meet the requirements of water flow rate regulation, the water inlet volume of the water inlet pipe 11 can also be adjusted as needed. The first shielding component 222 is also provided with a shielding extension 2223. The shielding extension 2223 extends away from the water inlet 2221 along the axis of the rotating moving component 221. The shielding extension 2223 is used to partially shield the opening of the water inlet pipe 11.

[0131] Specifically, as the flow regulating valve operates sequentially from the first position, the second position, and the third position, the first blocking component 222, along with the rotation of the rotating moving component 221, gradually approaches the inlet of the water inlet pipe 11. Then, the blocking extension 2223 partially blocks the inlet of the water inlet pipe 11, thereby reducing the water flow rate of the water inlet pipe 11.

[0132] By reducing the water flow rate of the inlet pipe 11, the effect of reducing the water flow rate of the first outlet pipe 12 can be better achieved. Furthermore, when the flow regulating valve is in the third position, the first outlet pipe 12 discharges water through the smaller auxiliary outlet 123, and simultaneously, the second outlet pipe 13 also discharges water through the smaller second outlet. At this time, the shielding extension 2223 maximizes the shielding of the inlet pipe 11, thereby more effectively reducing the water intake and further reducing the total water intake. This allows for more efficient regulation of hot and cold water, ensuring a constant water temperature at the user's end.

[0133] In one embodiment, the water inlet 2221 and the shielding extension 2223 are staggered about the axis of the rotating moving component 221.

[0134] Specifically, the inlet pipe 11 and the first outlet pipe 12 are arranged on the side of the valve housing 1, the second outlet pipe 13 is arranged at one end of the valve housing 1, and the drive component 21 is arranged at the other end of the valve housing 1.

[0135] The inlet pipe 11 and the first outlet pipe 12 are arranged substantially perpendicular to the axis of the rotating moving component 221, while the second outlet pipe 13 is arranged along the axis of the rotating moving component 221. The inlet pipe 11 and the first outlet pipe 12 are arranged in opposite directions. To achieve this, the inlet 2221 and the shielding extension 2223 are staggered to meet the requirements of water flow regulation for the inlet pipe 11 and the first outlet pipe 12 at different locations.

[0136] In some embodiments of this application, in order to meet the installation requirements of the rotating moving component 221 and simultaneously enable the driving component 21 to move synchronously while driving the rotating moving component 221 to rotate, a sliding guide portion 2211 and a threaded portion 2212 are sequentially provided at one end of the rotating moving component 221 from the outside to the inside; the sliding guide portion 2211 is connected to the driving component 21, and the sliding guide portion 2211 rotates with the driving component 21 and can slide relative to the driving component 21; the valve core assembly 2 also includes a bushing 24, which is provided with a threaded hole (not marked), through which the rotating moving component 221 passes, and the threaded portion 2212 is threadedly connected in the threaded hole, and the bushing 24 is disposed on the valve body 1.

[0137] Specifically, after the rotating moving part 221 is inserted into the valve housing 1, the end located inside the valve housing 1 is supported and mounted by the second partition 131. The end located outside the valve housing 1 is mounted on the valve housing 1 by a bushing 24, and the sliding guide part 2211 is connected to the drive part 21. The bushing 24 is connected and engaged with the rotating moving part 221, so that the rotating moving part 221 can reciprocate during rotation by engaging the threaded part 2212 with the threaded hole.

[0138] The sliding guide 2211 can be represented by a gear structure provided in the rotating moving part 221. The guide ribs are distributed on the outer periphery of the rotating moving part 221. The driving part 21 can be a motor, and an internal gear ring structure is provided on the rotating shaft of the motor. The gear structure and the gear ring structure can meet the requirements of the rotating moving part 221 to rotate, and also meet the requirements of the sliding motion of the rotating moving part 221 during rotation.

[0139] In one embodiment of this application, in order to meet the requirements for sealed installation between the valve housing 1 and related assembly components, a first sealing ring 25 is also provided between the rotating moving part 221 and the inner wall of the bushing 24.

[0140] Specifically, after the bushing 24 is sealed and installed on one end of the valve body 1, the rotating moving part 221 is installed in the bushing 24, and the bushing 24 and the rotating moving part 221 are sealed by the first sealing ring 25.

[0141] Similarly, a second sealing ring 26 is provided between the rotating moving part 221 and the inner wall of the mounting part 231.

[0142] Specifically, the mounting component 231 is fitted over the rotating moving component 221, and the connection between the two is sealed by the second sealing ring 26, so that the water entering the valve body 1 from the inlet pipe 11 will not flow into the second outlet pipe 13 through the gap formed between the mounting component 231 and the rotating moving component 221 and be output, thereby ensuring the sealing performance and improving the water flow control accuracy of the second outlet pipe 13.

[0143] In one embodiment, the second partition 131 forms a groove structure 134, and the bottom of the groove structure 134 is provided with a support hole 133 and a second water outlet 132; the second shielding member 232 is an annular structure and is sleeved on the rotating moving member 221, and the second shielding member 232 is used to seal the outer edge of the groove structure 134.

[0144] Specifically, in order to open and close the second water outlet 132 through the second blocking component 232, the second water outlet 132 is arranged in the groove structure 134 formed by the second partition 131. When closing the second water outlet 132, it is only necessary to block and close the edge of the groove structure 134 to close the second water outlet 132.

[0145] The mounting component 231 has an annular groove (not marked) on its end face opposite to the second partition 131, and the second blocking component 232 is disposed in the annular groove. Specifically, the second blocking component 232 can be a sealing component such as a rubber ring or a silicone ring. The second blocking component 232 is installed in the annular groove of the mounting component 231, and the second outlet 132 is closed by sealing the edge of the groove structure 134 with the second blocking component 232.

[0146] In addition, the second partition 131 is provided with an outwardly extending first inclined surface around the groove structure 134. The first inclined surface forms a flared structure. The end of the mounting component 231 opposite to the second partition 131 is provided with a second inclined surface. The second inclined surface forms a conical structure.

[0147] Specifically, the cone-shaped structure formed by the mounting component 231 and the flared structure formed on the second partition 131 work together to more precisely adjust the flow rate regulation accuracy of the second water outlet 132, thereby achieving more refined bypass ratio control when the water heater controls the outlet temperature, which is more conducive to maintaining a constant water temperature.

[0148] In one embodiment, the side wall of the rotating moving component 221 is provided with an outwardly extending connecting rod 27, and the first blocking component 222 is provided with a connecting hole 2224, in which the connecting rod 27 is inserted.

[0149] Specifically, by cooperating with the connecting rod 27 and the connecting hole 2224, the first flow control component 22 is installed on the rotating moving component 221. On the one hand, this satisfies the installation requirements of the first flow control component 22, and on the other hand, the connecting rod 27 is set on the rotating moving component 221 without obstructing the flow of water, thus meeting the requirement of smooth water delivery.

[0150] Compared with the prior art, the advantages and positive effects of the present invention are as follows: by setting a valve core assembly in the valve housing, the driving component in the valve core assembly can drive the first flow control component and the second flow control component to move inside the valve housing. The first flow control component can continuously adjust the flow rate of the first outlet pipe during the movement, thereby meeting the purpose of adjusting the water flow to meet the needs of water heater heating power changes. The second flow control component can adjust the bypass flow rate to accurately control the mixing amount of hot and cold water during the short-term switching of water, thereby reducing the water temperature fluctuation of the water heater outlet. By accurately adjusting the water flow rate through the flow regulating valve to reduce the water temperature fluctuation of the water heater outlet, the user experience is improved.

[0151] 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 method for controlling the outlet water temperature of a water heater, characterized in that, The device includes a water heater body and a flow regulating valve. The water heater body is provided with a main water inlet port and a main water outlet port. The water heater body is also provided with a heating mechanism. The flow regulating valve has an inlet pipe, a first outlet pipe and a second outlet pipe. The inlet pipe is connected to the main water inlet port, the first outlet pipe is connected to the inlet of the heating mechanism, and the second outlet pipe and the outlet of the heating mechanism are respectively connected to the main water outlet port. The control method includes: when the water is turned off for a set time and water is used again, first reduce the water flow of the first water outlet pipe and increase the water flow of the second water outlet pipe; then, according to the temperature of the total water outlet port, gradually increase the water flow of the first water outlet pipe and decrease the water flow of the second water outlet pipe. The flow regulating valve has a first position, a second position, and a third position; When the flow regulating valve is in the first position, the opening of the first outlet pipe is at its maximum, and the second outlet pipe is in the closed state; when the flow regulating valve is in the third position, the opening of the first outlet pipe is at its minimum, and the opening of the second outlet pipe is at its maximum. When the flow regulating valve moves from the first position to the second position, the opening of the first outlet pipe gradually decreases and the second outlet pipe is closed; conversely, the opening of the first outlet pipe gradually increases. When the flow regulating valve moves from the second position to the third position, the opening of the first outlet pipe gradually decreases and the opening of the second outlet pipe gradually increases; conversely, the opening of the first outlet pipe gradually increases and the opening of the second outlet pipe gradually decreases. The flow regulating valve includes: A valve housing, on which an inlet pipe, a first outlet pipe, and a second outlet pipe are provided; A first flow control component, the first flow control component includes a rotating moving component and a first blocking component, the first blocking component being disposed on the rotating moving component; The second flow control component includes a mounting component and a second blocking component, wherein the second blocking component is disposed on the mounting component; Drive components; The driving component is connected to the rotating moving component and is used to drive the rotating moving component to rotate. The rotating moving component rotates relative to the valve housing and also moves relative to it. The first blocking component is disposed inside the valve housing and located on one side of the first water outlet pipe. The first blocking component is used to control the flow rate of the first water outlet pipe. The mounting component is slidably disposed on the rotating moving component. The second blocking component is arranged opposite to the second water outlet pipe and is used to control the flow rate of the second water outlet pipe.

2. The water heater outlet temperature control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the flow regulating valve is in the third position, the opening degree of the first outlet pipe and the second outlet pipe is the same.

3. The water heater outlet temperature control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control method includes: when the water is turned off and used again within a set time, the flow regulating valve first operates between a second position and a third position, and after the water temperature at the main outlet port stabilizes, the flow regulating valve operates from the second position to the first position.

4. The water heater outlet temperature control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the interval between turning off the water and using it again exceeds the set time, the flow regulating valve will first operate in the second position, and after the water temperature at the main outlet port stabilizes, the flow regulating valve will operate from the second position to the first position.

5. The water heater outlet temperature control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The control method further includes: Obtain the heating status of the heating mechanism; Obtain the outlet water temperature of the main outlet port; The flow regulating valve is controlled according to the heating status and the temperature of the water outlet.

6. The control method for a water heater according to claim 5, characterized in that, During normal operation of the water heater, when the heating power of the heating mechanism is at its maximum value and the outlet water temperature at the main outlet port is less than the preset temperature value, the flow regulating valve moves from the first position to the second position until the temperature at the main outlet port equals the preset temperature value.

7. The control method for a water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the flow regulating valve moves from the second position to the third position, the opening of the water inlet pipe gradually decreases, and vice versa.

8. The control method for a water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that, When the flow regulating valve is operating between the first and second positions, the opening of the inlet pipe remains unchanged.

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