An outdoor unit for a heat pump water heater, a heat pump water heater, and a hot water system.

Abstract

This invention discloses an outdoor unit for a heat pump water heater, the heat pump water heater itself, and a hot water system. The outdoor unit includes an outdoor heat exchange module and a circulation booster module. The circulation booster module includes a water pump, an inlet connected to an external water source, and a first water supply port for supplying pressurized water to the outside. The inlet end of the water pump is connected to the inlet port, and the outlet end of the water pump is connected to the first water supply port. The circulation booster module also includes a second water supply port, which is selectively connected to either the inlet end or the outlet end of the water pump via a reversing mechanism. The outdoor unit of this invention uses a reversing mechanism to control the connection direction of the second water supply port, enabling the simultaneous pressurization of both cold and hot water supply, as well as a zero-cold-water function, all achieved by the same water pump. This eliminates the hassle of separately setting up a circulation pump and a booster pump in existing technologies. Furthermore, the circulation booster module is integrated into the outdoor unit, eliminating the need for separate connection and power supply, thus facilitating installation and use.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of water heater technology, specifically, it relates to an outdoor unit of a heat pump water heater, a heat pump water heater and a hot water system. Background Technology

[0002] The working principle of a heat pump water heater is that the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant liquid in the evaporator absorbs heat from the air, causing the refrigerant to vaporize into a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant gas. Then, the compressor compresses the gas, increasing its pressure and temperature, transforming it into a high-temperature, high-pressure gas. This gas then exchanges heat with the water in the tank through a heat exchanger, raising the water temperature. Simultaneously, the refrigerant, after undergoing heat exchange, becomes a low-temperature, high-pressure liquid. This liquid is then throttled by a throttling device, becoming a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid again, before re-entering the evaporator to repeat the process. Traditional electric and gas water heaters obtain heat energy by consuming gas and electricity, while heat pump water heaters heat water by absorbing heat from the air. They can absorb approximately three times the amount of heat energy needed to heat water while consuming the same amount of electricity, thus exhibiting energy-saving and high-efficiency characteristics, and are increasingly widely used.

[0003] A typical household split-type heat pump water heater consists of an outdoor unit that exchanges heat with the air outdoors, and an indoor heating tank that heats the water to supply hot water. In use, the inlet of the heating tank is directly connected to the municipal water supply, heating the incoming tap water. When the user needs hot water, it is delivered to various water points in the home via hot water pipes. Each water point is also directly connected to the municipal water supply via cold water pipes. The water from the cold and hot water pipes is mixed at the water point using a mixing valve to obtain water at a suitable temperature for the user.

[0004] However, in scenarios with low tap water pressure, such as in southern rural towns without running water or with self-built water towers, or in high-rise buildings in rural areas with running water, insufficient water pressure may prevent the heating tank of the heat pump water heater from filling completely. This results in insufficient stored hot water to meet the user's demand when demand is high. To address this, existing technologies typically install a separate booster pump module on the tap water line to pressurize the water system throughout the house. However, the booster pump module, outdoor unit, and heating tank are independent of each other and require separate power supplies, leading to complex water and electrical connections, cumbersome installation of split-type heat pump water heaters, and higher costs.

[0005] On the other hand, when the point of use is far from the outlet of the heating water tank, the hot water pipe is quite long. After a period of no hot water use, the water remaining in the pipe cools down, requiring a large amount of cold water to be released before hot water at the desired temperature can be obtained. Existing technology addresses this problem by installing a circulation pump in the water circuit to pump the residual cold water in the hot water pipe back to the heating water tank for reheating, thus avoiding unnecessary cold water release. However, if both water pressure boosting and zero cold water issues are to be addressed simultaneously, separate booster pumps and circulation pumps are needed, further increasing the complexity of the water and electrical circuits and making it inconvenient for users.

[0006] In view of this, the present invention is hereby proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide an outdoor unit, a heat pump water heater, and a hot water system. By setting up a circulation booster module, the flow direction of the water inside the circulation booster module is controlled by the reversing mechanism therein. Thus, a single water pump can simultaneously achieve dual boosting of cold and hot water supply, as well as zero cold water function. The structure is simple. At the same time, the circulation booster module is integrated into the outdoor unit and is powered and controlled by the outdoor unit, eliminating the trouble of connecting a separate water pump in the water circuit, which facilitates the installation and use of the heat pump water heater.

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the basic concept of the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0009] An outdoor unit of a heat pump water heater includes an outdoor heat exchange module and a circulation boosting module. The circulation boosting module includes a water pump, an inlet connected to an external water source, and a first water supply port for supplying boosted water to the outside. The inlet end of the water pump is connected to the inlet, and the outlet end of the water pump is connected to the first water supply port.

[0010] The circulating booster module also includes a second water supply port, which is connected to either the inlet or outlet of the water pump via a reversing mechanism.

[0011] Furthermore, the circulating booster module also includes an inlet pipe connecting the inlet to the inlet end of the water pump, and a first supply pipe connecting the first supply port to the outlet end of the water pump; the second supply port is connected to either the inlet pipe or the first supply pipe via a reversing mechanism.

[0012] Furthermore, the reversing mechanism includes a reversing valve, which includes a first opening connected to the inlet pipe, a second opening connected to the first water supply pipe, and a third opening connected to the second water supply port, and also includes a reversing element that controls the third opening to selectively connect to either the first opening or the second opening.

[0013] Preferably, the inlet pipe is provided with a first branch connected to the first opening of the reversing valve, and the first supply pipe is provided with a second branch connected to the second opening of the reversing valve.

[0014] Furthermore, the first water supply pipe includes a first water outlet section connected to the first water supply port, and a second water outlet section connecting the first water outlet section to the water outlet end of the water pump;

[0015] The first water outlet section extends a certain length from the first water supply port in the opposite direction of the water outlet direction. The second water outlet section is set perpendicular to the first water outlet section and extends from the extension end of the first water outlet section towards the direction of the water pump to connect with the water outlet end of the water pump. The second opening of the reversing valve is connected to the first water outlet section.

[0016] Furthermore, the inlet pipe is arranged parallel to the first outlet section of the first water supply pipe, and the reversing valve is arranged in the interval area between the inlet pipe and the first outlet section;

[0017] Preferably, the second water supply port is connected to the third opening of the reversing valve through a second water supply pipe, which is set in the interval area between the inlet pipe and the first outlet section of the first water supply pipe and is set parallel to the inlet pipe.

[0018] Furthermore, the outdoor heat exchange module includes a housing and an outdoor heat exchanger disposed inside the housing, and the circulating pressurization module is installed on the outer wall of the housing;

[0019] Preferably, the outer wall of one side of the housing has a working fluid inlet and a working fluid outlet that communicate with the outdoor heat exchanger, and the openings of the water inlet, the first water supply inlet and the second water supply inlet face the side where the working fluid inlet and the working fluid outlet are located.

[0020] More preferably, the circulating booster module is installed on the top surface of the housing, with the installation position close to the side where the working fluid inlet and working fluid outlet are located.

[0021] Furthermore, a fixed bracket is provided on the top surface of the housing, and the water pump is mounted on the fixed bracket;

[0022] Preferably, the fixing bracket includes a fixing part connected to the top surface of the housing, and a mounting part extending upward from the fixing part, wherein the water pump is mounted on the mounting part;

[0023] More preferably, there is a certain gap between the bottom of the water pump and the top surface of the tank.

[0024] Furthermore, the circulating booster module also includes a cover installed on the top surface of the housing, the water pump is located inside the cover, and the water inlet, the first water supply inlet and the second water supply inlet are both located on the cover.

[0025] Another object of the present invention is to provide a heat pump water heater, including a heating water tank and the outdoor unit described above. The heating water tank has a water storage chamber and a hot water outlet communicating with the water storage chamber is provided on the heating water tank. The first water supply port of the circulating pressurization module is connected to the water storage chamber through a pipeline to supply water to the water storage chamber.

[0026] A third objective of this invention is to provide a hot water system, including the heat pump water heater described above, and several water points, wherein the inlet of the circulating pressurization module is connected to an external water source, and the hot water outlet is connected to each water point via a hot water pipe.

[0027] The hot water system also includes a cold water pipe connected to each water point, and the cold water pipe is connected to the second water supply port of the circulation booster module; the hot water pipe and the cold water pipe are connected at each water point.

[0028] By adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art.

[0029] In the outdoor unit of the heat pump water heater of this invention, when the reversing mechanism connects the second water inlet to the water pump outlet, water pressurized by the water pump can be sent out from the first and second water inlets respectively, and then used for cold water supply and water supply to the heating tank, thereby realizing the pressurization function of the entire water circuit. When the reversing mechanism connects the second water inlet to the water pump inlet, residual cold water in the pipe supplying hot water to the water point can be drawn in from the second water inlet, passed through the water pump, and re-enter the heating tank for heating, realizing the zero cold water function. A single water pump can simultaneously achieve full water circuit pressurization and zero cold water functions, simplifying the water circuit structure. Furthermore, the circulating pressurization module, including the water pump and reversing mechanism, is integrated into the outdoor unit, eliminating the need for separate connection and power supply, thus facilitating installation and use.

[0030] In the outdoor unit of this invention's heat pump water heater, the circulating pressurization module is installed on the outer wall of the casing, without affecting the existing internal structure of the outdoor unit. A water tank heat exchanger is installed on the heating water tank to heat the internal stored water. The working fluid inlet and outlet on the casing are connected to the water tank heat exchanger via pipelines. Since the first water supply port needs to connect to the heating water tank to supply water, the opening direction of the inlet and the first and second water supply ports is set to face the side where the working fluid inlet and outlet are located. This concentrates all the parts of the outdoor unit that need to connect to the heating water tank on the same side of the outdoor unit, reducing the length of the pipeline and making pipeline connections more convenient.

[0031] In the hot water system of this invention, the outdoor unit of the heat pump water heater is installed outdoors, and the circulation booster module is directly installed at the whole-house water inlet and connected to the external water source. When the second water supply port is connected to the water pump outlet, the external water supply first enters the water pump for pressurization. After pressurization, it is divided into two paths, flowing out from the first and second water supply ports respectively. One path enters the heating tank for heating and then supplies hot water through the hot water pipe. The other path enters the cold water pipe for direct cold water supply, thus achieving dual pressurization of the water flow in both the cold and hot water pipes. When the second water supply port is connected to the water pump inlet, the cold water remaining in the hot water pipe can be drawn back by the pump through the cold water pipe, returning to the circulation booster module via the second water supply port. It is then pumped out from the first water supply port by the pump and re-enters the heating tank for heating, thereby achieving a zero-cold-water function. Users can control the reversing mechanism to switch the connection direction of the second water supply port according to their needs to achieve different functions and improve the user's water experience.

[0032] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0033] The accompanying drawings, as part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of the invention are used to explain the invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative effort. In the drawings:

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the outdoor unit in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the outdoor unit with the cover removed in Embodiments 1 and 2 of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 3 This is the present invention. Figure 2 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0037] Figure 4 This is a top view of the outdoor unit with the cover removed in Embodiments 1 and 2 of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the heating water tank in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 6 These are schematic diagrams of the hot water systems in embodiments two and three of the present invention.

[0040] In the diagram: 1. Main water supply pipe; 2. Connecting pipe; 3. Hot water pipe; 4. Cold water pipe; 5. Water usage point; 6. Outdoor unit; 7. Heating water tank; 100. Outdoor heat exchange module; 110. Housing; 111. Working fluid inlet; 112. Working fluid outlet; 200. Circulation booster module; 210. Cover; 211. Water inlet; 212. First water supply inlet; 213. Second water supply inlet; 220. Water pump; 221. Water inlet end; 222. Water outlet end; 230. Water inlet pipe; 231. First branch; 240. First water supply pipe; 241. First outlet section; 242. Second outlet section; 243. Second branch; 250. Second water supply pipe; 260. Fixed bracket; 261. Fixed part; 262. Installed part; 270. Reversing valve; 271. First opening; 272. Second opening; 273. Third opening; 701. Cold water inlet; 702. Hot water outlet; 703. Working fluid inlet; 704. Working fluid outlet; 710. Outer casing.

[0041] It should be noted that these accompanying drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0042] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0043] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to 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.

[0044] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" 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. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0045] Example 1

[0046] like Figures 1 to 5As shown, this embodiment provides an outdoor unit 6 for a heat pump water heater, and a heat pump water heater including the outdoor unit 6. Specifically, the heat pump water heater is a split-type heat pump water heater, including the outdoor unit 6 and a heating water tank 7. The outdoor unit 6 is placed outside the user's house to absorb heat from the air. The compressor performs work, transferring the heat from a low-temperature heat source to a high-temperature heat source. The transferred heat is absorbed by the water in the heating water tank 7, heating the water and thus enabling the supply of hot water to the outside.

[0047] In this embodiment, the outdoor unit 6 includes an outdoor heat exchange module 100 and a circulation booster module 200. The circulation booster module 200 includes a water pump 220, an inlet 211 connected to an external water source, and a first water supply port 212 for supplying boosted water to the outside. The inlet end 221 of the water pump 220 is connected to the inlet 211, and the outlet end 222 of the water pump 220 is connected to the first water supply port 212.

[0048] The circulating booster module 200 also includes a second water supply port 213, which is connected to either the inlet end 221 or the outlet end 222 of the water pump 220 via a reversing mechanism.

[0049] In use, the circulating booster module 200 of the outdoor unit 6 is directly connected to the whole-house water inlet of the user's home. Specifically, the main water supply line of the household is directly connected to the inlet 211. The first water inlet 212 is connected to the heating water tank 7 through a pipe to supply water to the heating water tank 7. The second water inlet 213 is directly connected to multiple water points in the home through a cold water pipe to supply cold water. The end of the cold water pipe is also connected to the hot water pipe connecting the water point to the heating water tank 7 through a mixing valve at the water point.

[0050] In the above scheme, when the reversing mechanism connects the second water supply port 213 to the outlet 222 of the water pump 220, the external water source directly enters the circulation booster module 200, and after being boosted by the water pump 220, it flows out from the first water supply port 212 and the second water supply port 213 respectively. Among them, the water flowing out of the first water supply port 212 is used to supply water to the heating water tank 7 for heating, and the water flowing out of the second water supply port 213 is directly used for cold water supply, thereby realizing the simultaneous boosting of cold and hot water supply.

[0051] When the reversing mechanism connects the second water supply port 213 to the inlet 221 of the water pump 220, under the suction action of the water pump 220, the water in the hot water pipe can flow back to the circulation booster module 200 through the mixing valve, the cold water pipe, and the second water supply port 213 in sequence. After passing through the water pump 220, it flows out again from the first water supply port 212 and enters the heating water tank 7. In this way, the cold water remaining in the hot water pipe can be sent back to the heating water tank 7 for heating, avoiding the situation where a large amount of cold water needs to be released at the water point when hot water is used again after a period of no use, thus realizing the zero cold water function when using hot water.

[0052] The circulating booster module 200 requires only one water pump 220. By controlling the water flow direction through a reversing mechanism, it can achieve both full-circuit boosting and zero-cold-water functions, eliminating the need for separate circulating and booster pumps. This simplifies the water circuit structure, making the circulating booster module 200 more compact, saving space, and reducing production costs. The circulating booster module 200 is integrated into the outdoor unit 6, eliminating the need for separate installation. It can be powered and controlled by the outdoor unit 6, saving the complex water and electrical modifications required when installing separate circulating and booster pumps on the main water supply line in the user's home, thus simplifying installation and use.

[0053] In this embodiment, a DC 11-meter head pump can be used as pump 220, with a flow rate of 8 meters per second.

[0054] In a further embodiment, the circulating booster module 200 further includes an inlet pipe 230 connecting the inlet 211 to the inlet end 221 of the water pump 220, and a first supply pipe 240 connecting the first supply port 212 to the outlet end 222 of the water pump 220. The second supply port 213 is connected to either the inlet pipe 230 or the first supply pipe 240 via a reversing mechanism.

[0055] Specifically, the reversing mechanism includes a reversing valve 270, which includes a first opening 271 communicating with the inlet pipe 230, a second opening 272 communicating with the first water supply pipe 240, and a third opening 273 communicating with the second water supply port 213. It also includes a reversing element (not shown in the figure) that controls the third opening 273 to selectively communicate with either the first opening 271 or the second opening 272.

[0056] Preferably, the inlet pipe 230 is provided with a first branch 231 connected to the first opening 271 of the reversing valve 270, and the first supply pipe 240 is provided with a second branch 243 connected to the second opening 272 of the reversing valve 270.

[0057] In the above scheme, the connection direction of the second water supply port 213 is controlled by the reversing valve 270, which has a simple structure and is easy to implement. The reversing valve 270 is connected to the first branch 231 branching off from the inlet pipe 230 and the second branch 243 branching off from the first water supply pipe 240, respectively, avoiding the need to set up connectors for diversion at the inlet 211 and the first water supply port 212, and making it easier to arrange the water circuit within the circulation booster module 200.

[0058] In a further embodiment, the first water supply pipe 240 includes a first water outlet section 241 connected to the first water supply port 212, and a second water outlet section 242 connecting the first water outlet section 241 to the water outlet end 222 of the water pump 220.

[0059] The first water outlet section 241 extends a certain length from the first water supply port 212 in the opposite direction of the water outlet direction. The second water outlet section 242 is arranged perpendicular to the first water outlet section 241 and extends from the extension end of the first water outlet section 241 towards the water pump 220 to connect with the water outlet end 222 of the water pump 220. The second opening 271 of the reversing valve 270 is connected to the first water outlet section 241.

[0060] In this embodiment, to simplify the water circuit structure and improve the aesthetics of the circulation booster module 200, the inlet 211, the first water supply port 212, and the second water supply port 213 are all located on the right side of the circulation booster module 200. Since the inlet end 221 and the outlet end 222 of the water pump 220 are perpendicular to each other, the water flow is guided to change direction through the first water supply pipe 240. The first water supply pipe 240 consists of a first outlet section 241 and a second outlet section 242 that are perpendicular to each other. The structure is simple and easy to implement, while minimizing the space occupied by the pipe layout.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the inlet pipe 230 and the first outlet section 241 of the first water supply pipe 240 are arranged in parallel, and the reversing valve 270 is arranged in the interval area between the inlet pipe 230 and the first outlet section 241.

[0062] More preferably, the second water supply port 213 is connected to the third opening 273 of the reversing valve 270 through the second water supply pipe 250. The second water supply pipe 250 is located in the interval area between the inlet pipe 230 and the first outlet section 241 of the first water supply pipe 240, and is arranged parallel to the inlet pipe 230.

[0063] In the above scheme, the inlet pipe 230, the second water supply pipe 250, and the first outlet section 241 of the first water supply pipe 240 are parallel to each other. The reversing valve 270 is located in the interval area between the inlet pipe 230 and the first outlet section 241, and is connected to both the inlet pipe 230 and the first outlet section 241. The second water supply port 213 is located between the inlet port 211 and the first water supply port 212, and is connected to the reversing valve 270 through the second water supply pipe 250 located in the interval area between the inlet pipe 230 and the first outlet section 241. This makes the inlet pipe 230 and the first outlet section 241 form a symmetrical structure relative to the reversing valve 270 and the second water supply pipe 250. Consequently, the first opening 271 and the second opening 272 of the reversing valve 270 are symmetrical relative to the third opening 273, making the structure of the reversing valve 270 for switching the connection direction simpler.

[0064] Furthermore, the first water outlet section 241 extends downward at an angle relative to the horizontal direction, and the end of the extension of the first water outlet section 241 is lower than the height of the first water supply port 212.

[0065] Preferably, the portion of the first water outlet section 241 near both ends extends horizontally, while the middle portion extends downward at an angle.

[0066] In this embodiment, the inlet 211 and the first water supply port 212 are set at the same height, making the appearance of the circulating booster module 200 more aesthetically pleasing. However, the inlet end 221 and the outlet end 222 of the water pump 220 are at different heights. Since the outlet end 222 of the water pump 220 is oriented horizontally, the second outlet section 242 extends horizontally to facilitate connection with the outlet end 222. The height difference between the inlet end 221 and the outlet end 222 of the water pump 220 needs to be compensated by partially tilting the first outlet section 241. The first water supply port 212 is oriented horizontally, and the second outlet section 242 extends horizontally. The two ends of the first outlet section 241 are set to extend horizontally for easy connection, while the middle part extends at an angle to compensate for the height difference.

[0067] In this embodiment, the outdoor heat exchange module 100 includes a housing 110 and an outdoor heat exchanger disposed inside the housing 110, and the circulation booster module 200 is installed on the outer wall of the housing 110.

[0068] In detail, the outdoor heat exchanger contains a flowing working fluid that absorbs heat from the air, changing from a liquid to a gaseous state. A compressor connected to the outdoor heat exchanger is also installed in the housing 110. The gaseous working fluid is transported by the compressor out of the outdoor unit 6 and into the water tank heat exchanger on the heating water tank 7, where it exchanges heat with the water in the heating water tank 7, raising the water temperature. Simultaneously, the gaseous working fluid condenses in the water tank heat exchanger, reforming into a liquid state and circulating back into the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0069] Installing the circulating booster module 200 on the outer wall of the housing 110 does not affect the existing internal structure of the housing 110. Therefore, it is possible to modify the existing outdoor unit without changing or with almost no change to the original internal structure of the housing 110, thus obtaining the outdoor unit 6 with the circulating booster module 200 in this embodiment, which is beneficial to the production and manufacturing of the outdoor unit 6 in this embodiment.

[0070] In a further embodiment, the outer wall of the housing 110 has a working fluid inlet 111 and a working fluid outlet 112 that are connected to the outdoor heat exchanger. The opening directions of the water inlet 211, the first water supply port 212 and the second water supply port 213 are towards the side where the working fluid inlet 111 and the working fluid outlet 112 are located.

[0071] In the above scheme, to achieve the circulation of the working fluid among the outdoor heat exchanger, compressor, and water tank heat exchanger, the housing 110 is respectively provided with a working fluid outlet 112 for the working fluid to flow out and a working fluid inlet 111 for the working fluid to flow in. Correspondingly, the heating water tank 7 is also provided with a working fluid inlet 703 and a working fluid outlet 704, which are respectively connected to the water tank heat exchanger. In use, the working fluid outlet 112 on the housing 110 is connected to the working fluid inlet 703 on the heating water tank 7, and the working fluid inlet 111 on the housing 110 is connected to the working fluid outlet 704 on the heating water tank 7, thereby forming a working fluid circulation loop.

[0072] After passing through the circulation booster module 200, external water flows out from the first water inlet 212 and the second water inlet 213 on the circulation booster module 200. The first water inlet 212 needs to be connected to the water storage chamber in the heating water tank 7 through a pipeline to achieve the purpose of supplying water to the heating water tank 7. The hot water outlet 702 on the heating water tank 7 is connected to each water point through a pipeline, and the second water inlet 213 on the circulation booster module 200 is directly connected to each water point through a pipeline. When the first water inlet 212 and the second water inlet 213 face the same direction, the heating water tank 7 can be positioned between the circulation booster module 200 and the water point, which is more conducive to simplifying the water circuit structure.

[0073] In this embodiment, the working fluid inlet 111 and working fluid outlet 112 are located on the right side of the housing 110 and need to be connected to the heating water tank 7 via pipelines. Correspondingly, the opening direction of the first water supply port 212 is set to the right, so that the parts of the outdoor unit 6 that need to be connected to the heating water tank 7 are concentrated on the right side of the outdoor unit 6. Furthermore, the opening directions of the water inlet 211 and the second water supply port 213 are both set to be the same as those of the first water supply port 212. When building pipelines for connection, the length of the pipeline can be reduced, and the pipeline connection is more convenient.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the circulating pressurization module 200 is installed on the top surface of the housing 110, near the side where the working fluid inlet 111 and working fluid outlet 112 are located. Installing the entire circulating pressurization module 200 on the top surface of the housing 110 does not occupy space on the outer periphery of the housing 110. The circulating pressurization module 200 is located at the right end of the top surface of the housing 110, ensuring that the working fluid inlet 111, working fluid outlet 112, water inlet 211, first water supply port 212, and second water supply port 213 are all located on the far right side of the housing 110, thus simplifying the pipeline connection to the greatest extent possible.

[0075] In a further embodiment, a fixed bracket 260 is provided on the top surface of the housing 110, and the water pump 220 is mounted on the fixed bracket 260.

[0076] In the above solution, the water pump 220 is mounted on the fixed bracket 260 instead of directly on the top surface of the housing 110. The fixed bracket 260 can buffer the vibration generated by the water pump 220 during operation, thus avoiding serious impact on the housing 110 and internal structure of the outdoor heat exchange module 100. For example, it may cause the connection points of various parts of the housing 110 or the connection structure of various components inside the housing 110 to become loose, affecting the operation of the outdoor heat exchange module 100.

[0077] In a preferred embodiment, the fixed bracket 260 includes a fixing part 261 connected to the top surface of the housing 110, and an mounting part 262 extending upward from the fixing part 261, with the water pump 220 mounted on the mounting part 262.

[0078] More preferably, there is a certain gap between the bottom of the water pump 220 and the top surface of the housing 110.

[0079] Specifically, the fixing part 261 is fixed to the top surface of the housing 110 by screws, and the water pump 220 is installed on the mounting part 262 by screws, so that there is a certain gap between the water pump 220 and the top surface of the housing 110.

[0080] In the above scheme, the connection between the fixed bracket 260 and the housing 110 is realized through the structural design of the fixed bracket 260. At the same time, the water pump 220 is lifted by the mounting part 262 so that it is as far away from the top surface of the housing 110 as possible, which further weakens the vibration of the water pump 220.

[0081] In a further embodiment, the circulating booster module 200 also includes a cover 210 installed on the top surface of the housing 110, a water pump 220 is disposed inside the cover 210, and the water inlet 211, the first water supply port 212 and the second water supply port 213 are all disposed on the cover 210.

[0082] In the above scheme, the enclosure 210 encloses the water pump 220 in the space formed by the enclosure 210 and the top surface of the housing 110. The water pump 220 is not in direct contact with the external space, which can protect the water pump 220 and prevent the water pump 220 from being damaged by bumps.

[0083] The split-type heat pump water heater provided in this embodiment includes a heating water tank 7 and the outdoor unit 6 described above. The heating water tank 7 has a water storage chamber, and a hot water outlet 702 communicating with the water storage chamber is provided on the heating water tank 7. The first water supply port 212 of the circulation booster module 200 is connected to the water storage chamber through a pipeline to supply water to the water storage chamber.

[0084] Specifically, the heating water tank 7 includes an outer shell 710 and an inner liner disposed inside the outer shell 710, the interior of which forms a water storage cavity. A cold water inlet 701 is provided on the outer shell 710 and communicates with the inner liner. The first water supply port 212 of the circulation booster module 200 is connected to the cold water inlet 701 on the outer shell 710 through a pipeline, thereby achieving the purpose of supplying water to the inner liner.

[0085] A water tank heat exchanger is wound around the outer wall of the inner tank, through which the working fluid changes from a gaseous state to a liquid state, releasing heat to heat the water in the inner tank, thus raising the temperature of the water in the heating water tank 7. The working fluid inlet 703 and the working fluid outlet 704, which are connected to the water tank heat exchanger, extend from the outer casing 710, and are thus connected to the working fluid outlet 112 and the working fluid inlet 111 on the outdoor unit 6 through pipes.

[0086] Hot water outlet 702 is located on the outer shell 710 and communicates with the interior of the inner tank. As cold water is injected into the inner tank, the heated water in the inner tank flows out through hot water outlet 702 under water pressure, and is then transported to various water points through hot water pipes, thus achieving hot water supply. Since the cold water entering the inner tank is pressurized water by water pump 220, the hot water supply is pressurized. In the circulating pressurization module 200, reversing valve 270 connects the second water supply port 213 with the water outlet 222 of water pump 220. Pressurized cold water is directly supplied to various water points through the second water supply port 213 via cold water pipes, thus simultaneously achieving pressurization of the cold water supply.

[0087] When the reversing valve 270 connects the second water supply port 213 to the water inlet 221 of the water pump 220, the water pump 220 can also pump the residual cold water in the hot water pipe back to the circulation booster module 200 through the cold water pipe, and then flow out through the first water supply port 212 to be sent to the heating water tank 7 for reheating. The above method can avoid the situation where users need to release a large amount of cold water at the water point when using hot water, and achieve a zero cold water effect for hot water use.

[0088] In this embodiment, a circulation booster module 200 is integrated into the outdoor unit 6 of the heat pump water heater, and a reversing valve 270 is installed therein to control the direction of water flow. An external water source is directly connected to the inlet 211. When the reversing valve 270 connects the second water supply port 213 to the outlet 222 of the water pump 220, the water pressurized by the water pump 220 can be sent from the first water supply port 212 and the second water supply port 213 respectively, and then used for cold water supply and to supply water to the heating tank 7 to achieve hot water supply, thereby realizing the booster function of the entire water circuit. When the reversing valve 270 connects the second water supply port 213 to the inlet 221 of the water pump 220, the cold water remaining in the hot water pipe can be drawn into the second water supply port 213 through the cold water pipe, then sent out again from the first water supply port 212 after passing through the water pump 220, and enter the heating tank 7 for heating, thereby achieving a zero-cold-water function.

[0089] The above solution simplifies the water circuit structure by enabling simultaneous full-circuit pressurization and zero-cold-water function with a single water pump 220. Furthermore, the circulation booster module 200, including the water pump 220 and reversing valve 270, is integrated into the outdoor unit 6, facilitating installation and allowing for unified power supply and control from the outdoor unit 6.

[0090] Example 2

[0091] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, this embodiment provides a hot water system, including the heat pump water heater described in Embodiment 1 above, and several water points 5. The inlet 211 of the circulation booster module 200 is connected to an external water source, and the hot water outlet 702 is connected to each water point 5 through a hot water pipe 3.

[0092] The hot water system also includes a cold water pipe 4 connected to each water point 5, and the cold water pipe 4 is connected to the second water supply port 213 of the circulation booster module 200. The hot water pipe 3 and the cold water pipe 4 are connected at each water point 5.

[0093] In the above solution, the outdoor unit 6 is directly installed at the water inlet of the whole house and connected to the external water source. Specifically, water from the tap well is pumped into the water storage tank in the user's home for storage. When the user has a water demand, the water storage tank supplies water to the main water supply pipe 1 in the user's home. In this embodiment, the inlet 211 of the circulating booster module 200 is directly connected to the main water supply pipe 1 connected to the outlet of the water storage tank.

[0094] When the full-circuit pressurization function is implemented, the control reversing valve 270 connects the second water supply port 213 to the water pump 220 outlet 222. After external water enters the circulation pressurization module 200, it is pressurized by the water pump 220 and then delivered to the first water supply port 212 and the second water supply port 213 respectively. The first water supply port 212 is connected to the cold water inlet 701 on the heating water tank 7 via the connecting pipe 2, supplying water to the heating water tank 7. Simultaneously, the hot water in the inner tank of the heating water tank 7 enters the hot water pipe 3 under water pressure. The second water supply port 213 is directly connected to the cold water pipe 4, delivering pressurized cold water into the cold water pipe 4 (the water flow direction in the cold water pipe 4 is as follows...). Figure 6 (As indicated by the solid arrow). Hot water is delivered to water point 5 via hot water pipe 3 and cold water pipe 4, respectively. After being mixed by the mixing valve at water point 5, water at a suitable temperature is provided to the user.

[0095] When the zero-cold-water function is achieved, the control reversing valve 270 connects the second water supply port 213 with the water pump 220 inlet 221. This generates a suction force at the second water supply port 213, which flows into the circulation booster module 200, causing the water in the cold water pipe 4 to flow in the reverse direction (as shown in the image). Figure 6(As shown by the dashed arrow). Meanwhile, the cold water remaining in the hot water pipe 3 enters the cold water pipe 4 through the mixing valve at the water point 5, and then enters the circulation booster module 200 through the second water supply port 213. Finally, under the action of the water pump 220, it is sent out through the first water supply port 212 and re-enters the heating water tank 7 for heating. At the same time, the hot water in the heating water tank 7 is sent into the hot water pipe 3, avoiding the need to release a large amount of cold water at the water point 5.

[0096] The hot water system in this embodiment, through the installation of an outdoor unit 6 integrating a circulation booster module 200 and subsequent pipe connections, and the cooperation of a water pump 220 and a reversing valve 270, can simultaneously boost the water flow in both the cold water pipe 4 and the hot water pipe 3, and also achieve a zero-cold-water function for hot water supply, thus improving the user's water experience. This embodiment requires minimal modification to the existing water system, has low modification costs, and is easy to implement.

[0097] Example 3

[0098] like Figure 1 As shown, the difference between this embodiment and the first embodiment above is that the first water supply pipe from the first water supply port 212 on the cover 210 to the water outlet of the water pump includes a first water outlet section, a preheating section and a second water outlet section in sequence. The preheating section is set inside the box 110 of the outdoor heat exchange module 100.

[0099] Specifically, a heat exchange device is installed inside the housing 110. The preheating section passes through the heat exchange device and exchanges heat with it, thereby preheating the water flow in the preheating section. Since the outdoor unit 6 is installed outside the user's house, especially in winter when the outside temperature is low, the preheating section can prevent the water in the inlet pipe from freezing into ice, or even causing the inlet pipe to crack.

[0100] In this embodiment, the heat exchange device is located near the compressor inside the housing 110. It can absorb the heat emitted during the operation of the compressor and then transfer the absorbed heat to the water flow in the preheating section to preheat the water flow.

[0101] Specifically, a first through hole and a second through hole are formed on the top surface of the housing 100 in the area inside the casing 210. The water inlet of the preheating section extends out of the housing 100 through the first through hole, and the water outlet of the preheating section extends out of the housing 110 through the second through hole. The second water outlet section is connected to the water outlet of the water pump and extends horizontally backward until it connects with the water inlet of the preheating section. The first water outlet section extends horizontally to the right from the water outlet of the preheating section and connects with the first water supply port 212.

[0102] In this embodiment, the second opening of the reversing valve is still connected to the first water outlet section. When the second opening and the third opening in the reversing valve are connected to achieve the full water circuit pressurization function, all the water pressurized by the water pump passes through the preheating section and is then transported to the first water supply port 212 through the second water outlet section, and to the second water supply port 213 through the reversing valve and the second water supply pipe.

[0103] When the outdoor unit 6 in this embodiment is working, with the second and third openings of the reversing valve connected, external water enters the circulation booster module 200 through the inlet 211. After flowing through the inlet pipe, it is pressurized by the water pump and then enters the preheating section located inside the housing 110 through the second outlet section. During the preheating section, the water flow exchanges heat with the heat exchange device inside the housing 110 to achieve preheating, preventing the water temperature from being too low, especially preventing the water from freezing when the outdoor ambient temperature is low. After passing through the preheating section, the water flow enters the first outlet section. Part of it is transported along the first outlet section to the first water supply port 212, and then supplies water to the heating water tank 7. The other part is transported through the reversing valve connected to the first outlet section to the second water supply port 213 for direct cold water supply.

[0104] When the first and third openings of the reversing valve are connected, the pump's suction action causes the water in the hot water pipe to flow back through the mixing valve, cold water pipe, and second water supply port 213 to the circulation booster module 200. The water then enters the inlet pipe via the reversing valve, is pressurized by the pump, and is sent to the second outlet section. After preheating in the preheating section, the preheated water is finally sent out from the first water supply port 212 through the first outlet section and re-enters the heating water tank 7 for further heating, thus achieving a zero-cold-water function. Preheating the water before it enters the heating water tank 7 prevents the water temperature from being too low and affecting the overall temperature of the water stored in the tank, thus avoiding a long waiting time when using hot water.

[0105] This embodiment also provides a heat pump water heater including the outdoor unit 6 described above. The connection method between the outdoor unit 6 and the heating water tank 7 in the heat pump water heater is the same as in Embodiment 1, and will not be repeated here.

[0106] like Figure 6 As shown, this embodiment also provides a hot water system including the heat pump water heater. The inlet 211 of the circulation booster module 200 is connected to an external water source, and the hot water outlet 702 of the heating water tank 7 is connected to each water point 5 through a hot water pipe 3. Each water point 5 is also connected to a cold water pipe 4, which is connected to the second water supply port 213 of the circulation booster module 200.

[0107] In this embodiment, when a user has a water demand, if the water pressure of the external water source is low, the second and third openings of the reversing valve are connected. External water enters the circulation booster module 200 through inlet 211, is first boosted by a water pump, and then preheated through the first water supply pipe, especially the preheating section. Finally, the water flows out from the first water supply port 212 and the second water supply port 213, respectively, and then into the connecting pipe 2 and the cold water pipe 4. The connecting pipe 2 then transports the water to the heating water tank 7, causing the hot water in the heating water tank 7 to flow out from the hot water outlet 702 into the hot water pipe 3. Through this method, external water can be preheated before entering the cold water pipe 4 and the heating water tank 7, preventing the water temperature from being too low. Simultaneously, the water flow in both the cold water pipe 4 and the hot water pipe 3 can be boosted.

[0108] When a user has not used hot water for an extended period, the first and third openings of the reversing valve connect, causing the water in the cold water pipe 4 to flow in the reverse direction. The remaining cold water in the hot water pipe 3 then passes sequentially through the mixing valve, cold water pipe 4, and the second water supply port 213 into the circulation booster module 200. From there, it enters the inlet pipe via the reversing valve, is pressurized by the water pump, and then sent to the second outlet section. After preheating in the preheating section, it finally flows out through the first outlet section and back into the heating water tank 7 via the first water supply port 212. This prevents users from releasing large amounts of cold water at the water point 5, achieving a zero-cold-water function. Furthermore, because the circulating water is preheated in the preheating section before entering the heating water tank 7, it better prevents the water temperature from dropping too low or even freezing, especially when the outdoor temperature is low. This results in a better zero-cold-water effect and improves the user's water usage experience.

[0109] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-described technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An outdoor unit of a heat pump water heater, characterized in that, It includes an outdoor heat exchange module and a circulation booster module. The circulation booster module includes a water pump, an inlet connected to an external water source, and a first water supply port for supplying boosted water to the outside. The water pump's inlet end is connected to the inlet, and the water pump's outlet end is connected to the first water supply port. The circulating booster module also includes a second water supply port and an inlet pipe connecting the inlet port to the inlet end of the water pump; the second water supply port is connected to either the inlet end or the outlet end of the water pump via a reversing mechanism. The outdoor heat exchange module includes a housing and an outdoor heat exchanger disposed inside the housing. The circulating pressurization module is installed on the outer wall of the housing. A fixed bracket is provided on the top surface of the housing. The fixed bracket includes a fixing part connected to the top surface of the housing and an mounting part extending upward from the fixing part. The water pump is installed on the mounting part. The circulating booster module includes a first water supply pipe connecting a first water inlet to the outlet of a water pump. The first water supply pipe, from the first water inlet to the outlet of the water pump, includes a first outlet section, a preheating section, and a second outlet section. The preheating section is located inside the housing. The housing is equipped with a heat exchange device located near the compressor area. The preheating section passes through the heat exchange device. The heat exchange device absorbs the heat emitted during the compressor's operation and transfers the absorbed heat to the water flow in the preheating section, thereby preheating the water flow in the preheating section. The reversing mechanism includes a reversing valve, which has a second opening and a third opening. The second opening is connected to the first water outlet section, and the third opening is connected to the second water supply port. The first water supply port is used to connect to the heating water tank of the heat pump water heater, and the hot water outlet of the heating water tank is connected to the hot water pipe. The second water supply port is used to connect to the cold water pipe, and the hot water pipe and the cold water pipe are connected at each water usage point. The reversing mechanism connects the second water supply port to the outlet of the water pump. After being pressurized by the water pump, the external water source flows out from the first water supply port and the second water supply port respectively. The reversing mechanism connects the second water supply port to the inlet of the water pump. The water in the hot water pipe flows back to the circulation pressurization module through the cold water pipe, and after passing through the water pump, it flows out from the first water supply port into the heating water tank.

2. The outdoor unit of the heat pump water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second water inlet is connected to either the water inlet pipe or the first water supply pipe via a reversing mechanism.

3. The outdoor unit of the heat pump water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, The reversing valve includes a first opening connected to the water inlet pipe, and a reversing element that controls the third opening to selectively connect to either the first opening or the second opening.

4. The outdoor unit of the heat pump water heater according to claim 3, characterized in that, The inlet pipe is provided with a first branch that is connected to the first opening of the reversing valve, and the first supply pipe is provided with a second branch that is connected to the second opening of the reversing valve.

5. The outdoor unit of the heat pump water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The circulating booster module also includes a cover installed on the top surface of the housing, the water pump is located inside the cover, and the water inlet, the first water supply inlet and the second water supply inlet are both located on the cover; The top surface of the box has a first through hole and a second through hole in the area inside the cover. The water inlet of the preheating section extends into the box through the first through hole, and the water outlet of the preheating section extends out of the box through the second through hole. The second water outlet section is connected to the water outlet end of the water pump and extends horizontally until it is connected to the water inlet end of the preheating section; the first water outlet section extends horizontally from the water outlet end of the preheating section to connect with the first water supply port; wherein, the second water outlet section is arranged perpendicularly to the first water outlet section.

6. The outdoor unit of the heat pump water heater according to claim 5, characterized in that, The inlet pipe is arranged parallel to the first outlet section of the first water supply pipe, and the reversing valve is located in the interval area between the inlet pipe and the first outlet section.

7. The outdoor unit of the heat pump water heater according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second water inlet is connected to the third opening of the reversing valve through the second water supply pipe. The second water supply pipe is set in the interval area between the inlet pipe and the first outlet section of the first water supply pipe, and is set parallel to the inlet pipe.

8. The outdoor unit of the heat pump water heater according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The outer wall of one side of the housing has a working fluid inlet and a working fluid outlet that are connected to the outdoor heat exchanger. The openings of the water inlet, the first water supply inlet, and the second water supply inlet face the side where the working fluid inlet and the working fluid outlet are located.

9. The outdoor unit of the heat pump water heater according to claim 8, characterized in that, The circulating booster module is installed on the top surface of the housing, with the installation position close to the side where the working fluid inlet and outlet are located.

10. The outdoor unit of the heat pump water heater according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, There is a certain gap between the bottom of the water pump and the top surface of the tank.

11. The outdoor unit of the heat pump water heater according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The circulating booster module also includes a cover installed on the top surface of the housing, the water pump is located inside the cover, and the water inlet, the first water supply inlet and the second water supply inlet are all located on the cover.

12. A heat pump water heater, characterized in that, The device includes a heating water tank and an outdoor unit as described in any one of claims 1-11. The heating water tank has a water storage chamber and a hot water outlet connected to the water storage chamber is provided on the heating water tank. The first water supply port of the circulating pressurization module is connected to the water storage chamber through a pipeline to supply water to the water storage chamber.

13. A hot water system comprising the heat pump water heater of claim 12, and a plurality of water usage points, characterized in that, The inlet of the circulating pressurization module is connected to an external water source, and the hot water outlet is connected to each water point through a hot water pipe. The hot water system also includes a cold water pipe connected to each water point, and the cold water pipe is connected to the second water supply port of the circulation booster module; the hot water pipe and the cold water pipe are connected at each water point.

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