A thermostatic cartridge and shower

Abstract

The application discloses a thermostatic valve core and a shower, and the thermostatic valve core comprises a valve body provided with a mixed water cavity, a cold water inlet channel, a hot water inlet channel and an outlet channel; the cold water inlet channel comprises a first branch channel and a second branch channel, and the second branch channel is provided with a first water passing opening; a thermostatic assembly is suitable for adjusting water passing flow rates of the cold water inlet channel and the hot water inlet channel to the mixed water cavity according to water temperature changes in the mixed water cavity; and a water inlet control assembly, wherein a temperature sensing part is suitable for expanding to push a regulating part away from the first water passing opening when water temperature in the cold water inlet channel rises and is suitable for contracting when water temperature decreases; an elastic part is suitable for contracting to store elastic potential energy when the temperature sensing part expands and is suitable for releasing the stored elastic potential energy to push the regulating part to the first water passing opening when the temperature sensing part contracts; the regulating part is close to or away from the first water passing opening to reduce or increase the water passing flow rate from a water inlet end of the second branch channel to the mixed water cavity; and the thermostatic valve core can make the gas water heater normally used in any season.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of thermostatic valve core technology, specifically to a thermostatic valve core and a shower. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, in order to keep the water temperature constant, showers are generally equipped with thermostatic valve cores. The thermostatic valve cores have built-in temperature sensing components that can adjust the flow rate of incoming cold and hot water, so that the mixed water is always kept within an appropriate range.

[0003] In winter, the cold water inlet temperature of a gas water heater is low, ensuring that the hot water output is within a suitable range. The flow rate of hot water entering the thermostatic valve is also within a suitable range, so the cold water inlet flow rate and the outlet temperature of the thermostatic valve remain unaffected. However, in summer, the cold water inlet temperature is higher, resulting in higher-temperature hot water entering the thermostatic valve. This causes the thermostatic valve to reduce the hot water inlet flow rate, which in turn reduces the cold water inlet flow rate. A gas water heater only starts operating when the cold water inlet flow rate or water pressure exceeds a certain threshold. If the cold water inlet flow rate is too low, the gas water heater may fail to operate or shut off, preventing normal use. Alternatively, the high output temperature of the hot water may trigger the gas's maximum temperature limit, also causing the gas water heater to malfunction. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the above-mentioned defects or problems in the prior art and to provide a thermostatic valve core and a shower, which can enable the gas water heater to be used normally in any season.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] A thermostatic valve core includes: a valve body having a mixing chamber, and a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and an outlet communicating with the mixing chamber; the cold water inlet includes a first branch and a second branch, and the second branch has a first inlet, the outlet of the first branch being located downstream of the first inlet or connected to the mixing chamber by itself; a thermostatic component disposed within the valve body and adapted to adjust the flow rates of the cold water inlet and hot water inlet respectively connected to the mixing chamber according to changes in water temperature within the mixing chamber; and an inlet control component disposed within the valve body and including a sensor. The valve comprises a temperature sensing section, an elastic section, and a regulating section; the temperature sensing section is adapted to expand when the water temperature in the cold water inlet path rises to push the regulating section away from the first water outlet and to contract when the water temperature decreases; the elastic section is adapted to contract under the action of the regulating section when the temperature sensing section expands to store elastic potential energy and to release its stored elastic potential energy when the temperature sensing section contracts to push the regulating section closer to the first water outlet; the regulating section is configured to slide relative to the valve body and to reduce or increase the flow rate from the inlet end of the second branch to the mixing chamber by moving closer to or away from the first water outlet.

[0007] Furthermore, the valve body is provided with a second water outlet communicating with the mixing chamber, and is also provided with a first water inlet and a second water inlet; the first water inlet is connected to the second water outlet to form the first branch; the second water inlet is sequentially connected to the first water outlet and the first branch to supply water to the second water outlet; the adjusting part is adapted to slide back and forth relative to the valve body along the water flow direction of the first water outlet, and it is provided with a sealing surface facing the first water outlet; the sealing surface is configured to be away from or to block the first water outlet to open or close the water flow communication from the second water inlet to the second water outlet.

[0008] Furthermore, the water inlet control assembly includes a temperature-sensing spring, a return spring, a sliding rod, and a locking piece; the temperature-sensing spring forms the temperature-sensing part, the return spring forms the elastic part, and the sliding rod is fixedly connected to the locking piece to form the adjusting part; the sliding rod slides along the water flow direction of the first water inlet on the valve body, with a sealing part at one end near the first water inlet, and the other end away from the first water inlet is locked and fixed to the locking piece to form a flange protruding from the side wall of the sliding rod; one end of the temperature-sensing spring abuts against the valve body, and the other end abuts against the flange; one end of the return spring abuts against the valve body, and the other end abuts against the side of the sealing part away from the first water inlet; the sealing surface is formed on the side surface of the sealing part facing the water inlet.

[0009] Furthermore, the end of the sliding rod away from the first water outlet is recessed with a snap-fit ​​groove; the snap-fit ​​piece is adapted to be sleeved on the outside of the sliding rod and inserted into the snap-fit ​​groove to engage with the sliding rod.

[0010] Furthermore, the water-passing area of ​​the second branch decreases after the first water inlet along the water-passing direction; the valve body is provided with a third water inlet, which is connected to the portion of the second branch located downstream of the first water inlet and is suitable for connecting to cold water inlet.

[0011] Furthermore, the first water inlet and the third water inlet are located on the side of the valve body, and the third water inlet is located below the first water inlet; the second water inlet is located at the bottom of the valve body.

[0012] Furthermore, the thermostatic component includes a push spring and a temperature sensing bulb and a piston fixedly connected to each other; the piston cooperates with the valve body to form a cold water passage gap and a hot water passage gap arranged axially in the valve body, the cold water passage gap being adapted to communicate with the second water outlet, and the hot water passage gap being adapted to communicate with the outlet end of the hot water inlet; the temperature sensing bulb is adapted to expand or contract according to the water temperature change in the mixing chamber and drive the piston to move axially along the valve body by abutting against the valve body to adjust the water passage area of ​​the cold water passage gap and the hot water passage gap; the push spring is placed between the temperature sensing bulb and the valve body to apply a force to the temperature sensing bulb to push the piston to move in the direction of increasing the water passage area of ​​the hot water passage gap.

[0013] Furthermore, the thermostatic assembly also includes a valve stem, an adjusting bolt, a safety spring, and a top cap; the valve stem is screwed to the adjusting bolt and protrudes outside the valve body for operation; the adjusting bolt is circumferentially fitted with the valve body and is adapted to be driven by the valve stem to move axially along the valve body; the safety spring is placed between the adjusting bolt and the top cap, and the temperature sensing bulb abuts against the valve body by abutting against the top cap.

[0014] Furthermore, the valve body includes a valve seat, a top cover, and an adjusting base; the valve seat and the top cover are fixedly connected to form the mounting chamber of the thermostatic component; the valve seat is provided with a first water inlet, a second water inlet, a third water inlet, a first water outlet, and a second water outlet, and the adjusting base is fixedly disposed on the valve seat and located between the first water outlet and the second water inlet; the adjusting part passes through the adjusting base to form a sliding fit with the valve body, and the temperature sensing part and the elastic part respectively abut against the adjusting base to apply a force to the adjusting part to drive it to slide relative to the valve body.

[0015] In addition, the present invention also provides a shower, including a shower body and a thermostatic valve core as described in any of the above claims; the shower body is adapted to receive cold water inlet and hot water inlet and input them into the thermostatic valve core before outputting mixed water; the cold water inlet of the thermostatic valve core is connected to the water inlet of the shower body receiving cold water, its hot water inlet is connected to the water inlet of the shower body receiving hot water, and its outlet is connected to the water inlet of the shower body outputting mixed water.

[0016] As can be seen from the above description of the present invention, compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0017] 1. Cold water enters the mixing chamber through the cold water inlet, and hot water enters the mixing chamber through the hot water inlet. The cold and hot water mix in the mixing chamber to form warm water, which is then output from the outlet. The thermostatic component ensures that the temperature of the output water remains within an appropriate range. The cold water inlet includes a first branch and a second branch, both of which can be connected to cold water. The second branch has a first inlet, and an inlet control component is installed in the valve body. When the water temperature rises, the temperature sensing element in the inlet control component drives the adjusting element to move and increase the flow area of ​​the first inlet. At this time, cold water will flow from the first inlet into the mixing chamber, increasing the cold water flow rate and preventing the gas water heater from becoming unusable due to excessively high cold water temperature. Conversely, when the cold water temperature is low, the elastic element drives the adjusting element to move and decrease the flow area of ​​the first inlet. At this time, cold water flows from the second branch... The flow rate of cold water supplemented by the main circuit is reduced or even cut off, so the flow rate of cold water entering the mixing chamber from the first branch is sufficient for the gas water heater to operate normally. This thermostatic valve core integrates an inlet control component within the valve body, allowing it to automatically control the flow rate of cold water supplementation based on the cold water temperature. Users do not need to manually switch this. Furthermore, adjusting the flow rate according to the cold water temperature allows the thermostatic valve core to better match the inlet and outlet water temperatures when the water temperature changes. Therefore, users can enjoy a more consistent user experience in both summer (higher cold water temperature) and winter (lower cold water temperature), effectively improving user satisfaction and comfort. In addition, the thermostatic component also effectively enhances the safety of the thermostatic valve core. It can quickly adjust the flow rate of cold and hot water when the mixing water temperature suddenly rises or falls, preventing users from being scalded or irritated by cold water.

[0018] 2. The regulating part slides along the water flow direction of the first water outlet. When the sealing surface on it blocks the first water outlet, it can cut off the water flow connection between the inlet end of the second branch and the mixing chamber. At this time, only the first branch supplies water to the mixing chamber. When the sealing surface moves away from the first water outlet, the water flow connection between the inlet end of the second branch and the mixing chamber is opened. At this time, the first branch and the second branch supply water to the mixing chamber at the same time, which can increase the flow rate of cold water entering the mixing chamber, thereby increasing the flow rate of hot water at the same time.

[0019] 3. In the water inlet control assembly, the temperature-sensing spring can change its elongation according to the water temperature in the cold water inlet. When the water temperature rises, the temperature-sensing spring elongates, pushing the adjustment part to open the first water outlet, while simultaneously causing the return spring to contract. When the water temperature drops, the temperature-sensing spring contracts, and the return spring applies force to the adjustment part, causing the adjustment part to block the first water outlet. In addition, the temperature-sensing spring can be first fitted onto the sliding rod and then the snap-fit ​​piece can be fixed to the sliding rod to form a flange that restricts the temperature-sensing spring from coming out, which can facilitate the installation of the temperature-sensing spring.

[0020] 4. The sliding rod is provided with a snap-fit ​​groove. After the snap-fit ​​piece is inserted into the sliding rod, it snaps into the snap-fit ​​groove, so that the snap-fit ​​piece can be fixed on the sliding rod and will not fall off. During installation, simply insert the sliding rod into the snap-fit ​​piece, and then insert the snap-fit ​​piece into the snap-fit ​​groove from the side to achieve the purpose of quick assembly.

[0021] 5. By reducing the water flow area of ​​the second branch after the first inlet, the flow velocity of the water ejected from the second branch can be increased. At the same time, a third inlet is set up. The negative pressure formed by the increased water flow velocity can accelerate the cold water intake of the third inlet, further increasing the cold water flow velocity and flow rate.

[0022] 6. The first and third water inlets are located on the side of the valve body, and the second water inlet is located at the bottom of the valve body. This facilitates the division of cold water into two independent water paths. When the second branch is closed, water flows into the mixing chamber through the first and third water inlets. When the second branch is open, water flows into the mixing chamber through the first, second, and third water inlets, resulting in a larger flow rate.

[0023] 7. In the thermostatic component, the temperature sensing bulb can push the piston down when the temperature of the mixing chamber rises, thereby reducing the amount of hot water entering the chamber. When the temperature of the mixing chamber drops, the push spring will push the piston up, thereby increasing the amount of hot water entering the chamber.

[0024] 8. The valve stem can be operated by the user to adjust the outlet water temperature of the thermostatic valve core. When the valve stem is rotated, the adjusting bolt will move up and down. The adjusting bolt is used to push the safety spring and the top cap to move. The top cap can push the temperature sensing bulb to move, and the temperature sensing bulb can push the piston to move, thereby adjusting the area of ​​the hot water inlet gap and the cold water inlet gap to be too small. The safety spring can prevent the temperature sensing bulb from being damaged due to excessive force at both ends when it deforms due to temperature.

[0025] 9. In the valve body, the valve seat and the top cover cooperate to form an installation chamber for installing the thermostatic component. The adjusting base is installed in the second branch. The adjusting part can pass through the adjusting base to achieve a sliding fit with the valve body. At the same time, the temperature sensing part and the elastic part can also abut against the adjusting base, so that the two ends of the temperature sensing part and the elastic part act on the valve body and the adjusting part respectively.

[0026] 10. A shower unit is also provided, which can be used in a gas water heater. Its built-in thermostatic valve core integrates a water inlet control component in the valve body, so that the thermostatic valve core can automatically control whether to supplement the flow of cold water inlet according to the cold water temperature. The user does not need to manually switch it. Furthermore, adjusting the flow according to the cold water temperature can also enable the thermostatic valve core to better match the inlet water flow with the outlet water temperature when the water temperature changes. Attached Figure Description

[0027] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments are briefly introduced. 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.

[0028] Figure 1 An exploded view of an embodiment of a thermostatic valve core provided by the present invention;

[0029] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of the thermostatic valve core Figure 1 ;

[0030] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of the thermostatic valve core Figure 2 ;

[0031] Figure 4 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of the structure of section A;

[0032] Figure 5 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of the structure of section B;

[0033] Figure 6 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the inlet water control assembly and adjustment base;

[0034] Figure 7 for Figure 1 Assembly diagram of the inlet water control component and the adjustment base.

[0035] Explanation of key figure labels:

[0036] Valve seat 11; Top cover 12; Adjusting base 13; Abutment part 131; Sliding hole 132; Filter screen 14; Filter base 15; Temperature sensor 21; Piston 22; Push spring 23; Top cap 24; Safety spring 25; Adjusting bolt 26; Valve stem 27; Sliding rod 31; Sealing part 311; Snap-fit ​​groove 312; Return spring 32; Temperature sensing spring 33; Snap-fit ​​piece 34; First snap ring 35; Second snap ring 41; Wear-resistant 42; First sealing ring 43; Second sealing ring 44; Third snap ring 45; Third sealing ring 46; Fourth sealing ring 47; Fifth sealing ring 48; First water inlet 51; Second water outlet 52; Second water inlet 53; First water outlet 54; Water outlet 55; Hot water inlet 56; Hot water inlet channel 57; Third water inlet 58; Cold water inlet gap 61; Hot water inlet gap 62; Water inlet chamber 63; Mixing water chamber 64. Detailed Implementation

[0037] 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 preferred embodiments of the present invention and should not be considered as excluding other embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0038] Unless otherwise expressly defined, the use of terms such as "first," "second," or "third" in the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention is for distinguishing different objects and not for describing a specific order.

[0039] Unless otherwise expressly defined, in the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention, the use of directional terms such as "center," "lateral," "longitudinal," "horizontal," "vertical," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise" to indicate orientation or positional relationships is based on the orientation and positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and is only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and is not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the specific scope of protection of this invention.

[0040] Unless otherwise expressly defined, the terms "fixed connection" or "fixed connection" used in the claims, description and drawings of this invention should be interpreted broadly to refer to any connection in which there is no displacement or relative rotation relationship between the two parties, including non-removable fixed connection, detachable fixed connection, integral connection and fixed connection by other means or components.

[0041] In the claims, description and accompanying drawings of this invention, the terms "comprising," "having," and variations thereof are used to mean "including but not limited to."

[0042] Reference Figures 1 to 7 , Figure 1 An exploded view of an embodiment of a thermostatic valve core provided by the present invention is shown. The thermostatic valve core mainly includes a valve body, a thermostatic component, and a water inlet control component. The thermostatic valve core is particularly suitable for adjusting the outlet water temperature of gas water heaters.

[0043] Gas water heaters heat cold water in real time to produce hot water. Due to their characteristics, gas water heaters have specific requirements for the cold water inlet flow rate, which is limited by the hot water output flow rate. When the hot water output flow rate is low, the cold water inlet flow rate is also low, potentially causing the gas water heater to malfunction. The hot water output flow rate is also limited by the outlet temperature of the thermostatic valve core, as well as the flow rate and temperature of the cold water entering the valve core. When the outlet temperature of the thermostatic valve core remains relatively constant, if the temperature of the cold water entering the valve core increases, the thermostatic component inside the valve core will reduce the flow rate of hot water entering the valve core, potentially leading to the aforementioned problem of the gas water heater malfunctioning. Therefore, in summer, when the cold water inlet temperature of the thermostatic valve core rises, it is necessary to increase the cold water inlet flow rate. More cold water within the same time frame helps maintain the hot water flow rate within an appropriate range, ensuring the normal operation of the gas water heater.

[0044] In this embodiment, when the thermostatic valve core is applied to a gas water heater, it can appropriately adjust the cold water inlet flow rate according to the cold water inlet temperature, thereby ensuring the stability of the hot water outlet flow rate of the gas water heater.

[0045] The thermostatic valve core has a mixing chamber 64 and a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet 57 and an outlet connected to the mixing chamber 64. The cold water inlet includes a first branch and a second branch. The second branch has a first water outlet 54, and the outlet of the first branch is located downstream of the first water outlet or is connected to the mixing chamber by itself.

[0046] Specifically, refer to Figure 2The valve body is provided with a second water outlet 52 communicating with the mixing chamber 64, and a first water inlet 51 and a second water inlet 53. The first water inlet 51 is connected to the second water outlet 52 to form the aforementioned first branch. The second water inlet 53 is connected to the first water outlet 54 and the first branch in sequence to supply water to the second water outlet 52. In addition, the water passage area of ​​the second branch decreases after the first water outlet 54 along the water passage direction. At the same time, a third water inlet 58 is provided on the valve body. The third water inlet 58 is connected to the portion of the second branch located downstream of the first water outlet 54 and is suitable for connecting cold water inlet. The first water inlet 51 and the third water inlet 58 are located on the side of the valve body, with the third water inlet 58 located below the first water inlet 51. The second water inlet 53 is located at the bottom of the valve body.

[0047] The valve body mainly includes a valve seat 11, an upper cover 12, and an adjusting base 13, as well as several snap rings and sealing rings. The valve seat 11 is fixedly connected to the upper cover 12 to form an installation chamber for the installation of the thermostatic component. The valve seat 11 is provided with the aforementioned first inlet 51, second inlet 53, third inlet 58, first outlet 54, and second outlet 52. The adjusting base 13 is fixed to the valve seat 11 and located between the first outlet 54 and the second inlet 53.

[0048] Specifically, refer to Figures 2 to 7 The valve body is roughly a rotating body, and therefore has an axial direction. With the thermostatic valve core upright as the reference, the valve body has a top, a bottom, and a side. The valve seat 11 is located at the bottom of the thermostatic valve core, and the upper cover 12 sits on the valve seat 11 and is fixed together by screw connection. An installation chamber is formed between the valve seat 11 and the upper cover 12. This installation chamber can be used as the installation space for the thermostatic component. At the same time, the installation chamber can be divided into a water inlet chamber 63 and a water mixing chamber 64. The water inlet chamber 63 is used to receive cold water, and the water mixing chamber 64 is used to mix the cold water and hot water and output them to the outlet of the valve body.

[0049] A second inlet 53, an outlet 55, and a hot water inlet 56 are provided at the bottom of the valve seat 11. A first inlet 51 is provided on the side of the valve seat 11. A second water passage 52 is provided on the inner side of the valve seat 11 corresponding to the first inlet 51. The first inlet 51 and the second water passage 52 are directly connected to form a first branch. A second branch is formed by extending upward along the axial direction of the second inlet 53 from the valve seat 11 to the side wall of the first branch. A first water passage 54 is provided at the upper position of the second branch. The reduced water passage area of ​​the first inlet 54 increases the water flow velocity after passing through it. A third inlet 58 is also provided on the side of the valve seat 11, located below the first inlet 51 and directly connected to the side wall of the second branch. The connection point of the third inlet 58 to the second branch is downstream of the first inlet 54. Therefore, when a negative pressure is formed in the section of the second branch where the flow velocity increases, water will be drawn into the third inlet 58, increasing the water flow rate to the first branch. The first inlet 51, second inlet 53, and third inlet 58 are all connected to the cold water inlet. A filter screen 14 is arranged around the first inlet 51 and the third inlet 58, and a filter base 15 is arranged at the second inlet 53 and the hot water inlet 56. Both the filter screen 14 and the filter base 15 are used to filter impurities that may be present in the inlet water. A fifth sealing ring 48 is also fitted around the valve seat 11 to form a sealing fit with the external shower body, etc.

[0050] It should be noted that the water passage area of ​​the first water outlet 54 referred to here is reduced, which can be referred to as Figure 2 As shown, in the second branch formed by the valve seat 11, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow section below the first water inlet 54 is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the chamber above the first water inlet 54. When the water flows into the second branch from the second inlet 53, the water flows upward. Therefore, the change in the cross-sectional area of ​​the second branch on both sides of the first water inlet 54 causes the water flow area to decrease after passing through the first water inlet 54. This situation leads to an increase in the water flow velocity.

[0051] In the above embodiment, the outlet of the first branch is connected to the mixing chamber 64 by itself, and the outlet of the second branch is connected to the first branch and then to the mixing chamber 64 through the first branch. However, in other embodiments, the outlet of the first branch can be connected to the second branch and then to the mixing chamber 64 through the second branch. In this case, it should be noted that the outlet of the first branch should be located downstream of the first water outlet 54, so that the first branch can input cold water into the mixing chamber 64 by itself without passing through the first water outlet 54, and thus will not be affected by the water flow rate of the first water outlet 54.

[0052] A hot water inlet 56 located at the bottom of the valve seat 11 extends upward along the axial direction of the valve seat 11 to form a hot water inlet passage 57. The hot water inlet passage 57 is connected to the installation chamber, and under the action of the thermostatic component, the hot water inlet passage 57 is connected to the mixing chamber 64. The outlet 55 is located in the middle of the valve seat 11 and extends upward to the position of the mixing chamber 64 to form an outlet passage.

[0053] The top cover 12 is fixed to the valve seat 11 by a threaded connection and forms a sealing fit with the valve seat 11 by the fourth sealing ring 47. A through hole is provided in the middle along the axial direction, which is used to allow part of the thermostatic component to extend out for user operation.

[0054] The adjusting base 13 is fixedly installed inside the valve seat 11 and located within the second branch. Its upper end is abutted by the stepped structure bent on the valve seat 11, and its lower end is abutted by the filter base 15, thereby being confined and fixed within the valve seat 11. Furthermore, the specific structure and function of the adjusting base 13 are described in the section explaining the inlet water control assembly.

[0055] The thermostatic assembly includes a push spring 23, a temperature sensor 21, a piston 22, a valve stem 27, an adjusting bolt 26, a safety spring 25, and a top cap 24. The temperature sensor 21 and the piston 22 are fixedly connected to each other. The piston 22 cooperates with the valve body to form a cold water passage 61 and a hot water passage 62 arranged axially along the valve body. The cold water passage 61 is adapted to communicate with the second water outlet 52, and the hot water passage 62 is adapted to communicate with the outlet end of the hot water inlet 57. The temperature sensor 21 is adapted to expand or contract according to the water temperature change in the mixing chamber 64 and drive the piston 22 to move axially along the valve body by abutting against the valve body. The valve stem 27 is screwed to the adjusting bolt 26 and protrudes outside the valve body for operation. The adjusting bolt 26 is matched with the valve body in the circumferential direction of the valve body and is adapted to be driven by the valve stem 27 to move the piston 22 in the direction of increasing the water flow area of ​​the hot water flow gap 62. The valve stem 27 is screwed to the adjusting bolt 26 and protrudes outside the valve body for operation. The adjusting bolt 26 is matched with the valve body in the circumferential direction of the valve body and is adapted to be driven by the valve stem 27 to move along the valve body axially. The safety spring 25 is placed between the adjusting bolt 26 and the top cap 24. The temperature sensing bulb 21 abuts against the valve body by abutting against the top cap 24.

[0056] Specifically, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3The valve stem 27 extends to the top of the upper cover 12 and forms a rotatable connection with the upper cover 12 through the second retaining spring 41 and the wear-resistant plate 42. Simultaneously, it forms a sealing fit with the wall of the through hole on the upper cover 12 through the first sealing ring 43 and the second sealing ring 44. The portion of the valve stem 27 extending into the upper cover 12 forms a screw-fit fit with the adjusting bolt 26 located inside the upper cover 12. Furthermore, the adjusting bolt 26 also has a circumferential upper limit fit with the interior of the upper cover 12. Therefore, when the valve stem 27 is rotated, the adjusting bolt 26 can only move axially within the valve body and cannot rotate. A safety spring 25 is installed inside the adjusting bolt 26. One end of the safety spring 25 rests against the top inner side of the adjusting bolt 26, and the other end rests against the top cap 24. A third retaining spring 45 is installed between the top cap 24 and the adjusting bolt 26, which restricts the axial movement of the top cap 24 within the valve body.

[0057] The top of the temperature sensing bulb 21 rests against the bottom of the top cap 24. The temperature sensing bulb 21 extends into the mixing chamber 64 and the outlet water passage, and can expand or contract according to the water temperature in the mixing chamber 64. A piston 22 is fixedly connected to the temperature sensing bulb 21, and the piston 22 forms a sealed fit with the valve body through the third sealing ring 46. An inlet chamber 63 is formed above the piston 22, and a mixing chamber 64 is formed below it. The second water outlet 52 of the first branch is connected to the inlet chamber 63 through a cold water passage gap 61, and the hot water inlet 57 is connected to the mixing chamber 64 through a hot water passage gap 62. The piston 22 has through holes connecting the inlet chamber 63 and the mixing chamber 64, allowing cold water to enter the mixing chamber 64 through these through holes, mix with the hot water to form warm water, and then exit from the outlet water passage. A push spring 23 is fitted below the temperature sensing bulb 21, with one end of the push spring 23 abutting against the valve seat 11 and the other end abutting against the temperature sensing bulb 21.

[0058] Among them, piston 22 is roughly cylindrical in shape, in Figure 2 A baffle for fixing the temperature sensor 21 is provided at the middle position in the vertical direction. The baffle has a threaded hole in the middle, and the temperature sensor 21 is threaded to the threaded hole, so that the temperature sensor 21 can drive the piston 22 to move up and down. The periphery of the piston 22 cooperates with the valve body to form the above-mentioned cold water passage 61 and hot water passage 62. Specifically, the cold water passage 61 is formed between the upper end face of the periphery of the piston 22 and the bottom end face of the upper cover 12. The cold water passage 61 is connected to the second water inlet 52. The valve seat 11 has a stepped structure at the position corresponding to the lower end face of the periphery of the piston 22. The lower end face of the piston 22 can cooperate with the stepped surface of the stepped structure to form the hot water passage 62 between the two. The hot water passage 62 is connected to the hot water inlet 57.

[0059] When the water temperature rises, the temperature sensing bulb 21 expands, the piston 22 moves downward, the cold water passage gap 61 widens, the hot water passage gap 62 decreases, and the spring 23 contracts to store energy; when the water temperature drops, the temperature sensing bulb 21 contracts, and the spring 23 pushes the temperature sensing bulb 21 upward, the piston 22 moves upward accordingly, the cold water passage gap 61 decreases, and the hot water passage gap widens.

[0060] The water inlet control assembly is housed within the valve body and includes a temperature sensing part, an elastic part, and an adjusting part. The temperature sensing part is adapted to expand when the water temperature in the cold water inlet path rises, thereby pushing the adjusting part away from the first water outlet 54, and to contract when the water temperature decreases. The elastic part is adapted to contract under the action of the adjusting part when the temperature sensing part expands, thereby storing elastic potential energy, and to release the stored elastic potential energy when the temperature sensing part contracts, thereby pushing the adjusting part closer to the first water outlet 54. The adjusting part is configured to slide relative to the valve body and to reduce or increase the flow rate from the inlet end of the second branch to the mixing chamber 64 by moving closer to or away from the first water outlet 54. The adjusting part is adapted to reciprocate relative to the valve body along the water flow direction of the first water outlet 54, and it has a sealing surface facing the first water outlet 54. This sealing surface is configured to move away from or block the first water outlet 54 to open or close the water passage connection from the second inlet 53 to the second water outlet 52.

[0061] The terms "decrease" and "increase" should be interpreted as follows: When the sliding of the adjusting part results in two states, the flow rate from the inlet end of the second branch to the mixing chamber 64 changes in these two states, then the relationship between these two states can be considered as "decrease" and "increase"; the situation where the flow rate is 0, that is, the flow from the inlet section of the second branch to the mixing chamber 64 is completely cut off, can also be considered as one of the two states mentioned above.

[0062] Specifically, refer to Figures 1 to 7 The water inlet control assembly includes a temperature-sensing spring 33, a return spring 32, a sliding rod 31, and a locking piece 34. The temperature-sensing spring 33 forms a temperature-sensing part, the return spring 32 forms an elastic part, and the sliding rod 31 is fixedly connected to the locking piece 34 to form an adjustment part. The sliding rod 31 is slidably disposed on the valve body along the water flow direction of the first water inlet 54. A sealing part 311 is provided at one end near the first water inlet 54, and the other end away from the first water inlet 54 is locked and fixed to the locking piece 34 to form a flange protruding from the side wall of the sliding rod 31. One end of the temperature-sensing spring 33 abuts against the valve body, and the other end abuts against the flange. One end of the return spring 32 abuts against the valve body, and the other end abuts against the side of the sealing part 311 away from the first water inlet 54. The surface of the sealing part 311 facing the water inlet forms a sealing surface.

[0063] Reference Figures 5 to 7The sliding rod 31 has a recessed locking groove 312 at the end away from the first water passage. The locking piece 34 is adapted to be sleeved on the outside of the sliding rod 31 and inserted into the locking groove 312 to engage with the sliding rod 31. A first retaining spring 35 is also provided below the locking piece 34 to prevent the locking piece 34 from falling out of the locking groove 312.

[0064] Among them, the top of the adjusting base 13 along Figure 5 The horizontally extending portion 131 is shown, and a sliding hole 132 extending vertically through the middle of the portion is provided. The sliding rod 31 can pass through the sliding hole 132 on the portion 131, thereby achieving a sliding engagement with the valve body in the vertical direction. In addition, the portion 131 divides the second branch into upper and lower parts, with the temperature sensing part and the elastic element located below and above the portion 131, respectively, and abutting against the portion 131 to apply a force to the adjusting part to drive it to slide relative to the valve body.

[0065] Specifically, the temperature-sensing spring 33 and the return spring 32 are both sleeved on the sliding rod 31. The temperature-sensing spring 33 is located below the abutting part 131, with its bottom end abutting against the snap-fit ​​piece 34 and its top end abutting against the lower surface of the abutting part 131. The bottom end of the return spring 32 abuts against the upper surface of the abutting part 131, and its top end abuts against the sealing part 311 of the sliding rod 31. The sealing part 311 can be made of rubber or hard plastic. When it is made of rubber, it can completely seal the first water outlet 54. When it is made of hard plastic, it can minimize the water flow rate of the first water outlet 54 when sealing it.

[0066] The second inlet 53 is always connected to the cold water inlet, so the temperature-sensing spring 33 can deform in real time according to the cold water temperature. When the cold water temperature rises, the temperature-sensing spring 33 extends, at which time the sliding rod 31 moves down, pressing the return spring 32 to contract, and the sealing part 311 moves away from the position of the first water outlet 54. The cold water flows from the first water outlet 54 to the first branch, then to the second water outlet 52, and then from the second water outlet 52 to the water inlet chamber 63. The cold water inlet volume of the water inlet chamber 63 increases, and the hot water inlet flow also increases. When the cold water temperature drops, the temperature-sensing spring 33 contracts, and under the action of the return spring 32, the sliding rod 31 moves up, and the sealing part 311 moves closer to the first water outlet 54 until the sealing surface blocks the first water outlet 54. Most of the cold water enters the water inlet chamber 63 from the first branch. The cold water inlet volume is small, but because the cold water temperature is low, the hot water inlet volume will also be maintained at an appropriate level. As the blocking part 311 approaches the first water outlet 54, the distance between the blocking part 311 and the edge of the first water outlet 54 gradually decreases. When it crosses a balance point between the water flow rate and the water area, the distance between the blocking part 311 and the edge of the first water outlet 54 begins to affect the water flow rate. The decrease in this distance causes the water flow rate to gradually decrease. When the blocking part 311 comes into contact with the edge of the first water outlet 54, the water flow rate drops to its minimum. Similarly, as the blocking part 311 moves away from the first water outlet 54, there is also a process of increasing the water flow rate from small to large.

[0067] In addition, this embodiment of the invention also provides a shower, which includes a shower body and a thermostatic valve core provided in the above embodiment. The shower body is adapted to receive cold water inlet and hot water inlet and input them into the thermostatic valve core before outputting mixed water. The cold water inlet of the thermostatic valve core is connected to the water inlet of the shower body, its hot water inlet 57 is connected to the water inlet of the shower body, and its outlet is connected to the water inlet of the shower body that outputs mixed water.

[0068] Specifically, the shower body is roughly similar to a conventional shower body equipped with a thermostatic valve core. The difference is that the water path for cold water in the shower body is divided into two paths that are connected to the thermostatic valve core. One path of cold water is connected to the first inlet 51, and the other path of cold water is connected to the second inlet 53.

[0069] This invention provides a thermostatic valve core and a shower. In the thermostatic valve core, cold water enters the mixing chamber 64 through a cold water inlet, and hot water enters the mixing chamber 64 through a hot water inlet 57. The cold and hot water mix in the mixing chamber 64 to form warm water, which is then output from the outlet. The thermostatic component ensures that the temperature of the output warm water is maintained within an appropriate range. The cold water inlet includes a first branch and a second branch, both of which can be connected to cold water. The second branch has a first inlet 54. An inlet control component is also provided within the valve body. The temperature sensing part of the inlet control component can drive the adjusting part to move and increase the water flow area of ​​the first inlet 54 when the water temperature rises. At this time, cold water will be replenished into the mixing chamber 64 from the first inlet 54, increasing the cold water flow rate in the mixing chamber 64 and preventing the gas water heater from becoming unusable due to excessively high cold water temperature. When the cold water temperature is low, the elastic part drives the adjusting part to move and... By reducing the water flow area of ​​the first inlet 54, the flow rate of cold water supplied from the second branch is reduced or even cut off, ensuring that the flow rate of cold water entering the mixing chamber 64 from the first branch is sufficient for the gas water heater to operate normally. This thermostatic valve core integrates an inlet control component within the valve body, allowing it to automatically control the flow rate of cold water supply based on the cold water temperature. Users do not need to manually switch this. Furthermore, adjusting the flow rate according to the cold water temperature allows the thermostatic valve core to better match the inlet flow rate with the outlet water temperature when the water temperature changes. Therefore, users can enjoy a more consistent user experience in both summer (higher cold water temperature) and winter (lower cold water temperature), effectively improving user satisfaction and comfort. In addition, the thermostatic component also effectively enhances the safety of the thermostatic valve core. It can quickly adjust the flow rate of cold and hot water when the mixing water temperature suddenly rises or falls, preventing scalding or cold water irritation to the user.

[0070] The foregoing description of the specifications and embodiments is intended to explain the scope of protection of this invention, but does not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Modifications, equivalent substitutions, or other improvements to the embodiments of this invention or a portion thereof that can be obtained by those skilled in the art through logical analysis, reasoning, or limited experimentation, based on the teachings of this invention or the foregoing embodiments, in conjunction with common knowledge, general technical knowledge, and / or existing technology, should all be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A thermostatic valve core, characterized in that it comprises: The valve body is provided with a mixing chamber (64) and a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet (57) and an outlet connected to the mixing chamber (64); the cold water inlet includes a first branch and a second branch, and the second branch is provided with a first water outlet (54), and the outlet of the first branch is located downstream of the first water outlet (54) or is connected to the mixing chamber (64) by itself; A thermostatic component is placed in the valve body and is adapted to adjust the flow rate of the cold water inlet and the hot water inlet (57) connected to the mixing chamber (64) according to the water temperature change in the mixing chamber (64); and The water inlet control assembly is located within the valve body and includes a temperature sensing part, an elastic part, and an adjusting part. The temperature sensing part is adapted to expand when the water temperature in the cold water inlet path rises to push the adjusting part away from the first water outlet (54) and to contract when the water temperature decreases. The elastic part is adapted to contract under the action of the adjusting part when the temperature sensing part expands to store elastic potential energy and to release its stored elastic potential energy when the temperature sensing part contracts to push the adjusting part closer to the first water outlet (54). The adjusting part is configured to slide relative to the valve body and to reduce or increase the flow rate from the inlet end of the second branch to the mixing chamber (64) by moving closer to or away from the first water outlet (54).

2. The thermostatic valve core as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The valve body is provided with a second water outlet (52) communicating with the mixing chamber (64), and is provided with a first water inlet (51) and a second water inlet (53); the first water inlet (51) is connected to the second water outlet (52) to form the first branch; the second water inlet (53) is connected to the first water outlet (54) and the first branch in sequence to supply water to the second water outlet (52); the adjusting part is adapted to slide back and forth relative to the valve body along the water flow direction of the first water outlet (54), and it is provided with a sealing surface facing the first water outlet (54); the sealing surface is configured to move away from or block the first water outlet (54) to open or close the water flow communication from the second water inlet (53) to the second water outlet (52).

3. A thermostatic valve core as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The water inlet control assembly includes a temperature-sensing spring (33), a return spring (32), a sliding rod (31), and a locking piece (34); the temperature-sensing spring (33) forms the temperature-sensing part, the return spring (32) forms the elastic part, and the sliding rod (31) is fixedly connected to the locking piece (34) to form the adjustment part; the sliding rod (31) slides along the water flow direction of the first water inlet (54) on the valve body, and a sealing part (311) is provided at one end near the first water inlet (54), and a sealing part (311) is provided at the other end. The other end of the first water outlet (54) is engaged and fixed with the snap-fit ​​piece (34) to form a flange protruding from the side wall of the sliding rod (31) through the snap-fit ​​piece (34); one end of the temperature sensing spring (33) abuts against the valve body and the other end abuts against the flange; one end of the return spring (32) abuts against the valve body and the other end abuts against the side of the sealing part (311) away from the first water outlet (54); the sealing surface is formed on the side surface of the sealing part (311) facing the water outlet.

4. A thermostatic valve core as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The sliding rod (31) has a recessed locking groove (312) at one end away from the first water outlet (54); the locking piece (34) is adapted to be sleeved on the sliding rod (31) and inserted into the locking groove (312) to engage with the sliding rod (31).

5. A thermostatic valve core as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The water flow area of ​​the second branch decreases after the first water inlet (54) along the water flow direction; the valve body is provided with a third water inlet (58), which is connected to the part of the second branch located downstream of the first water inlet (54) and is suitable for connecting to cold water inlet.

6. A thermostatic valve core as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The first water inlet (51) and the third water inlet (58) are located on the side of the valve body, and the third water inlet (58) is located below the first water inlet (51); the second water inlet (53) is located at the bottom of the valve body.

7. A thermostatic valve core as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The thermostatic assembly includes a push spring (23) and a temperature sensing bulb (21) and a piston (22) fixedly connected to each other; the piston (22) cooperates with the valve body to form a cold water passage gap (61) and a hot water passage gap (62) arranged axially on the valve body. The cold water passage gap (61) is adapted to communicate with the second water outlet (52), and the hot water passage gap (62) is adapted to communicate with the outlet end of the hot water inlet (57); the temperature sensing bulb (21) is adapted to... The water in the mixing chamber (64) expands or contracts according to the temperature change and drives the piston (22) to move axially along the valve body by abutting against the valve body to adjust the water flow area of ​​the cold water flow gap (61) and the hot water flow gap (62); the push spring (23) is placed between the temperature sensing bulb (21) and the valve body to apply a force to the temperature sensing bulb (21) to push the piston (22) to move in the direction of increasing the water flow area of ​​the hot water flow gap (62).

8. A thermostatic valve core as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The thermostatic assembly also includes a valve stem (27), an adjusting bolt (26), a safety spring (25), and a top cap (24); the valve stem (27) is screwed to the adjusting bolt (26) and protrudes outside the valve body for operation; the adjusting bolt (26) is in a limiting fit with the valve body in the circumferential direction of the valve body and is adapted to be driven by the valve stem (27) to move along the axial direction of the valve body; the safety spring (25) is placed between the adjusting bolt (26) and the top cap (24), and the temperature sensing bulb (21) abuts against the valve body by abutting against the top cap (24).

9. A thermostatic valve core as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The valve body includes a valve seat (11), a top cover (12), and an adjusting base (13); the valve seat (11) and the top cover (12) are fixedly connected to form the mounting chamber of the thermostatic component; the valve seat (11) is provided with a first water inlet (51), a second water inlet (53), a third water inlet (58), a first water outlet (54), and a second water outlet (52); the adjusting base (13) is fixedly disposed on the valve seat (11) and located between the first water outlet (54) and the second water inlet (53); the adjusting part passes through the adjusting base (13) to form a sliding fit with the valve body, and the temperature sensing part and the elastic part respectively abut against the adjusting base (13) to apply a force to the adjusting part to drive it to slide relative to the valve body.

10. A shower unit, characterized in that, The shower body includes a shower body and a thermostatic valve core as described in any one of claims 1-9; the shower body is adapted to receive cold water inlet and hot water inlet and input them into the thermostatic valve core before outputting mixed water; the cold water inlet of the thermostatic valve core is connected to the water inlet of the shower body, its hot water inlet (57) is connected to the water inlet of the shower body, and its outlet is connected to the water inlet of the shower body that outputs mixed water.

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