Hot water systems and their control methods

Abstract

This invention discloses a hot water system and its control method, relating to the field of water heaters. The hot water system includes: a first storage-type water heater and a second storage-type water heater equipped with a heating device; the first storage-type water heater is provided with a first inlet pipe and a first outlet pipe; the second storage-type water heater is provided with a second inlet pipe and a second outlet pipe; a connecting pipe connecting the first outlet pipe and the second outlet pipe, and a water pump installed on the connecting pipe. The water pump is used to drive water heated by the heating device of the first storage-type water heater to flow through the connecting pipe to a water terminal on the side of the second storage-type water heater, or to drive water heated by the heating device of the second storage-type water heater to flow through the connecting pipe to a water terminal on the side of the first storage-type water heater. This application enables the combined use of multiple storage-type water heaters, increasing the hot water supply of a single storage-type water heater. Furthermore, the water pump can increase the water flow rate, providing users with a more comfortable water usage experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water heaters, and in particular to a hot water system and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] Existing water heaters mainly include: gas water heaters, heat pump water heaters, solar water heaters, and electric water heaters. Among them, electric water heaters use electricity as an energy source for heating. Most electric water heaters use storage-type heating.

[0003] For users with multiple bathrooms, when choosing electric water heaters, they typically install one water heater for each bathroom to meet the water demand. For example, a user with two bathrooms would often purchase two electric water heaters, forming a dual-bathroom water heater system. Most existing dual-bathroom water heater systems operate independently, with each water heater supplying hot water to its designated bathroom. For each water heater to meet the user's high water volume requirements, it needs to have a sufficiently large capacity and high power output.

[0004] However, when the capacity of an electric water heater increases, the required installation space also increases. This places higher demands on the user's installation environment and occupies more space in the bathroom. Some smaller bathrooms may even be unable to accommodate high-capacity, high-power water heaters due to space constraints. Furthermore, as the power of the water heater increases, its rated current is relatively larger, requiring higher wire gauge for the user's wiring. Users with smaller wire gauges may also be unable to install high-capacity, high-power water heaters. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In order to overcome the above-mentioned defects of the prior art, the technical problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a hot water system and its control method, which can resolve the contradiction between water volume, volume and power selection when using a single storage water heater, improve the hot water supply of a single storage water heater, and provide users with a more comfortable water use experience.

[0006] The specific technical solution of the embodiments of the present invention is as follows:

[0007] A hot water system, comprising:

[0008] A first storage water heater equipped with a heating device; a second storage water heater equipped with a heating device; the first storage water heater is equipped with a first inlet pipe and a first outlet pipe; the second storage water heater is equipped with a second inlet pipe and a second outlet pipe; a connecting pipe connecting the first outlet pipe and the second outlet pipe, wherein a water pump is installed on the connecting pipe, the water pump being used to drive water heated by the heating device of the first storage water heater to flow through the connecting pipe to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater, or to drive water heated by the heating device of the second storage water heater to flow through the connecting pipe to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater.

[0009] Furthermore, the first inlet pipe and the second inlet pipe are connected to the cold water pipe. The first inlet pipe is used to introduce cold water into the inner cavity of the first storage water heater, and the first outlet pipe is used to export the hot water heated by the heating device. The second inlet pipe is used to introduce cold water into the inner cavity of the second storage water heater, and the second outlet pipe is used to export the hot water heated by the heating device.

[0010] Furthermore, a switching device is also provided on the connecting pipeline. The switching device includes at least two states. In the first state, the water pump can drive the water in the first storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater. In the second state, the water pump can drive the water in the second storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater.

[0011] Furthermore, the connecting pipeline includes: a first pipeline connected to the first outlet pipe, a second pipeline connected to the second outlet pipe, and a water path switching module located between the first pipeline and the second pipeline. The water path switching module includes the switching device and the water pump. The switching device includes a first switching valve and a second switching valve. Along the water flow direction, the first switching valve and the second switching valve are alternately located upstream and downstream of the water pump. The first switching valve includes at least a first connected state and a second connected state, and the second switching valve includes at least a third connected state and a fourth connected state. When the first switching valve is in the first connected state and the second switching valve is in the third connected state, the water pump can drive the water in the first storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater. When the first switching valve is in the second connected state and the second switching valve is in the fourth connected state, the water pump can drive the water in the second storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater.

[0012] Furthermore, the water pump includes a first pump and a second pump, which are connected in series in the connecting pipeline. The first pump is used to drive water heated by the heating device of the first storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater, and the second pump is used to drive water heated by the heating device of the second storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater.

[0013] Furthermore, the water pump includes a first pump and a second pump; the connecting pipeline includes: a first pipeline connected to the first outlet pipe, a second pipeline connected to the second outlet pipe, and an intermediate pipeline located between the first pipeline and the second pipeline. The intermediate pipeline includes a first branch and a second branch connected in parallel. The first branch is equipped with the first pump and a first switching valve; the second branch is equipped with the second pump and a second switching valve. The first pump is used to drive the water heated by the heating device of the first storage water heater to flow to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater, and the second pump is used to drive the water heated by the heating device of the second storage water heater to flow to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater.

[0014] Furthermore, the connecting pipe has a first port and a second port. The first port is connected to the first water outlet pipe or located in a first hot water pipe section downstream of the first water outlet pipe along the direction of hot water flow. The second port is connected to the second water outlet pipe or located in a second hot water pipe section downstream of the second water outlet pipe along the direction of hot water flow.

[0015] Furthermore, the first hot water pipe segment has a first front end and a first end end, the first front end being connected to the first water outlet pipe and the connecting pipe, and the first end end being used to connect to the first water terminal; the second hot water pipe segment has a second front end and a second end end, the second front end being connected to the second water outlet pipe, and the second end end being used to connect to the connecting pipe and the second water terminal.

[0016] Furthermore, the hot water system includes a first operating state and a second operating state. In the first operating state, the water pump is in the start state, and the hot water flowing from the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater is supplied to the same water terminal. In the second operating state, the water pump is in the stop state, and the first storage water heater and / or the second storage water heater supplies water to the water terminal matched with it.

[0017] Furthermore, in the second working state, the connecting pipe is not conductive.

[0018] Furthermore, the first storage water heater is installed in a first indoor location, and the second storage water heater is installed in a second indoor location.

[0019] Furthermore, the water pump and at least part of the connecting pipeline are disposed within the reserved installation space.

[0020] Furthermore, the first storage water heater is equipped with a first flow switch or a first flow detection component for detecting the water flow of the first storage water heater; the second storage water heater is equipped with a second flow switch or a second flow detection component for detecting the water flow of the second storage water heater.

[0021] Furthermore, the first flow detection component is installed on the first inlet pipe and the second flow detection component is installed on the second inlet pipe; or, the first flow detection component is installed on the first outlet pipe and the second flow detection component is installed on the second outlet pipe.

[0022] Furthermore, both the first and second storage water heaters are equipped with a hot water volume detection component to detect the amount of hot water inside the water heater cavity.

[0023] Furthermore, the hot water volume detection component is a temperature sensor used to detect the water temperature inside the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater.

[0024] Furthermore, there are multiple temperature sensors, which are respectively installed inside or outside the first and second storage water heaters along the height direction.

[0025] Furthermore, the hot water system also includes a first pressure sensor for acquiring the pressure inside the first storage water heater and a second pressure sensor for acquiring the pressure inside the second storage water heater.

[0026] Furthermore, the first pressure sensor is located at the first interface, and the second pressure sensor is located at the second interface.

[0027] Furthermore, the hot water volume detection component is a temperature sensor used to detect the water temperature of the first water outlet pipe and the second water outlet pipe, respectively.

[0028] Furthermore, the hot water system also includes: a controller capable of acquiring operating parameters of the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater, wherein the controller is integrated in the first storage water heater and electrically connected to the second storage water heater; or, the controller is integrated in the second storage water heater and electrically connected to the first storage water heater; or, the controller is independently configured and electrically connected to the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater.

[0029] A control method for a hot water system as described above, comprising:

[0030] The water pump drives the hot water in the second storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater;

[0031] Alternatively, the water pump drives the hot water in the first storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater.

[0032] Furthermore, the control method for the hot water system also includes:

[0033] When the hot water volume of the first storage water heater is less than the first predetermined hot water volume, the water pump drives the hot water in the second storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater through the connecting pipe;

[0034] When the hot water volume of the second storage water heater is less than the second predetermined hot water volume, the water pump is used to drive the hot water in the first storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater through the connecting pipe.

[0035] Furthermore, the control method for the hot water system further includes: acquiring the water outlet status of the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater.

[0036] When the first storage water heater is in the water-discharging state, the water pump is activated to drive hot water from the second storage water heater, which is in the non-discharging state and / or has a hot water volume greater than a third predetermined hot water volume, to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater; or...

[0037] When the second storage water heater is in the water outlet state, the water pump is started to drive the hot water in the first storage water heater, which is in the non-water outlet state and / or has a hot water volume greater than the fourth predetermined hot water volume, to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater.

[0038] Furthermore, the control method for the hot water system further includes: acquiring the water outlet status of the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater.

[0039] When the first storage water heater is in the water-discharging state and the amount of hot water in the first storage water heater is less than a first predetermined amount of hot water, the water pump is activated to drive the hot water from the second storage water heater, which is in the non-discharging state and / or has a hot water amount greater than a second predetermined amount of hot water, to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater; or,

[0040] When the second storage water heater is in the water outlet state and the amount of hot water in the second storage water heater is less than the second predetermined amount of hot water, the water pump is started to drive the hot water in the first storage water heater, which is in the non-water outlet state and / or has a hot water amount greater than the first predetermined amount of hot water, to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater.

[0041] Furthermore, the water output status of the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater is obtained based on the output signals of the first flow switch installed on the first storage water heater and the second flow switch installed on the second storage water heater.

[0042] Furthermore, the amount of hot water in the first and second storage water heaters is obtained based on the temperature parameters detected by temperature sensors installed on the inner tanks of the first and second storage water heaters.

[0043] Furthermore, the control method for the hot water system further includes: when the first storage water heater and / or the second storage water heater outputs hot water to the user, if the hot water volume of the first storage water heater is greater than a first predetermined hot water volume and the hot water volume of the second storage water heater is greater than a second predetermined hot water volume, the water pump is in a stopped state.

[0044] Furthermore, the control method for the hot water system further includes: determining whether the hot water volume of the first storage water heater in the water outlet state has reached a fifth predetermined hot water volume, wherein the fifth predetermined hot water volume is greater than the first predetermined hot water volume; when the hot water volume of the first storage water heater reaches the fifth predetermined hot water volume, the water pump is stopped; or,

[0045] The system determines whether the hot water volume of the second storage water heater in the water outlet state has reached the sixth predetermined hot water volume, wherein the sixth predetermined hot water volume is greater than the second predetermined hot water volume; when the hot water volume of the second storage water heater reaches the sixth predetermined hot water volume, the water pump is in a stopped state.

[0046] Furthermore, the control method also includes:

[0047] Before starting the water pump, obtain any one or a combination of the inlet flow rate, outlet flow rate, and internal pressure of the storage water heater when it is in the outlet state; start the water pump and adjust the operating parameters of the water pump until the difference between the flow rate from the storage water heater in the outlet state to the water terminal and the flow rate to the water terminal before starting the water pump is within a predetermined range.

[0048] Furthermore, the operating parameters of the water pump include any one of the following: power, speed, duty cycle, frequency, and head.

[0049] Furthermore, the first inlet pipe of the first storage water heater is equipped with a first flow detection component, and the second inlet pipe of the second storage water heater is equipped with a second flow detection component. The control method further includes:

[0050] When the first storage water heater is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump, the inlet flow rate of the first flow detection component is obtained, the water pump is started, and the power of the water pump is adjusted until the difference between the flow rate of the second flow detection component and the obtained inlet flow rate of the first flow detection component is within a predetermined range.

[0051] When the second storage water heater is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump, the inlet flow rate of the second flow detection component is obtained, the water pump is started, and the power of the water pump is adjusted until the difference between the flow rate of the first flow detection component and the obtained inlet flow rate of the second flow detection component is within a predetermined range.

[0052] Furthermore, the first outlet pipe of the first storage water heater is equipped with a first flow detection component, and the second outlet pipe of the second storage water heater is equipped with a second flow detection component. The control method further includes:

[0053] When the first storage water heater is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump, the water outlet flow rate of the first flow detection component is obtained, the water pump is started, and the power of the water pump is adjusted until the difference between the flow rate of the second flow detection component and the obtained water outlet flow rate of the first flow detection component is within a predetermined range.

[0054] When the second storage water heater is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump, the water outlet flow rate of the second flow detection component is obtained, the water pump is started, and the power of the water pump is adjusted until the difference between the flow rate of the first flow detection component and the obtained water outlet flow rate of the second flow detection component is within a predetermined range.

[0055] Furthermore, the first storage-type water heater is equipped with a first pressure sensor for acquiring the internal cavity pressure, and the second storage-type water heater is equipped with a second pressure sensor for acquiring the internal cavity pressure; the control method further includes:

[0056] When the first storage water heater is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump, the pressure of the first pressure sensor is obtained, the water pump is started, and the power of the water pump is adjusted until the difference between the pressure obtained by the second pressure sensor and the pressure obtained by the first pressure sensor is within a predetermined range.

[0057] When the second storage water heater is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump, the pressure of the second pressure sensor is obtained, the water pump is started, and the power of the water pump is adjusted until the difference between the pressure obtained by the first pressure sensor and the pressure obtained by the second pressure sensor is within a predetermined range.

[0058] Furthermore, the control method also includes: storing the adjusted operating parameters of the water pump, and adjusting the operating parameters of the water pump to the stored operating parameters when the water pump is restarted.

[0059] Furthermore, the water pump is a variable frequency pump. During the process of adjusting the operating parameters of the water pump, the operating parameters change with a predetermined gradient, so that the water flow rate of the storage water heater in the water outlet state is gradually adjusted to the water flow rate of the storage water heater in the water outlet state before the water pump is started.

[0060] The technical solution of the present invention has the following significant beneficial effects:

[0061] The hot water system provided by this invention connects the outlet pipes of a first and a second storage water heater, thereby increasing the hot water supply of a single storage water heater. By installing a water pump on the connecting pipe, when the hot water supply from either storage water heater is insufficient to meet the user's needs, the pump can be activated to supplement the hot water from the other storage water heater to the user's terminal, thus solving the problem of insufficient water supply from a single storage water heater. The same user terminal can receive the combined water supply from both storage water heaters. Compared to the existing method of multiple storage water heaters supplying water independently, this application can combine multiple storage water heaters, providing a large volume of water to the user terminal without increasing, or even reducing, the volume and power of each storage water heater. This achieves the effect of providing a large volume of water from a small, low-power water heater.

[0062] In this hot water system, the outlet sides of each storage water heater can be connected through connecting pipes. When multiple storage water heaters supply water to the same water terminal at the same time, it can ensure that the water terminal has a large flow of water.

[0063] In addition, by installing a water pump on the connecting pipeline, the pump can overcome pipe resistance and increase water pressure, ensuring that the hot water system supplies a large water flow to any water terminal, thus improving the user's bathing experience.

[0064] Specific embodiments of the invention are disclosed in detail with reference to the following description and accompanying drawings, indicating how the principles of the invention can be employed. It should be understood that the embodiments of the invention are not therefore limited in scope. Within the spirit and scope of the appended claims, embodiments of the invention include many changes, modifications, and equivalents. Features described and / or shown for one embodiment may be used in the same or similar manner in one or more other embodiments, combined with features in other embodiments, or substituted for features in other embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0065] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Furthermore, the shapes and proportions of the components in the drawings are merely illustrative to aid in understanding the invention and do not specifically limit the shapes and proportions of the components. Those skilled in the art, guided by the teachings of this invention, can select various possible shapes and proportions to implement the invention according to specific circumstances.

[0066] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first hot water system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0067] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the switching device in the first state in the hot water system provided in the diagram;

[0068] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the switching device in the second state in the hot water system provided in the diagram;

[0069] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second hot water system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the third hot water system provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0071] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the fourth hot water system provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0072] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the fifth hot water system provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0073] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the positions of a water pump and a switching device in a connecting pipeline according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0074] Figure 9 This is a logic block diagram of a control method for a hot water system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] The main reference numerals in the above figures are:

[0076] 1. First storage-type water heater; 11. First inlet pipe; 12. First outlet pipe; 13. First hot water pipe section; 131. First front end; 132. First end;

[0077] 2. Second storage-type water heater; 21. Second inlet pipe; 22. Second outlet pipe; 23. Second hot water pipe section; 231. Second front end; 232. Second end;

[0078] 3. Connecting pipe; 30. Intermediate pipe; 301. First pipe; 302. Second pipe; 31. Cold water pipe;

[0079] 4. Water pump; 41. First pump; 42. Second pump;

[0080] 5. Switching device; 51. First switching valve; 52. Second switching valve; 53. Third switching valve; 54. Fourth switching valve; A. First two-position three-way valve; B. Second two-position three-way valve; 61. First water terminal; 62. Second water terminal;

[0081] 71. First flow detection component;

[0082] 72. Second flow detection component;

[0083] 81. Temperature sensor;

[0084] W1, the first indoor location;

[0085] W2, the second indoor location. Detailed Implementation

[0086] The details of the present invention can be more clearly understood by referring to the accompanying drawings and the description of specific embodiments. However, the specific embodiments of the present invention described herein are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the invention in any way. Under the teachings of this invention, those skilled in the art can conceive of any possible modifications based on the invention, all of which should be considered within the scope of the invention. It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is referred to as being "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be interpreted broadly, for example, they can refer to mechanical or electrical connections, or internal communication between two elements, and can be direct or indirect connections through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms according to the specific circumstances. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only embodiments.

[0087] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0088] Please refer to the following: Figures 1 to 7 The hot water system provided in this application specification may include: a first storage water heater 1 equipped with a heating device; a second storage water heater 2 equipped with a heating device; the first storage water heater 1 is provided with a first inlet pipe 11 and a first outlet pipe 12; the second storage water heater 2 is provided with a second inlet pipe 21 and a second outlet pipe 22; a connecting pipe 3 connecting the first outlet pipe 12 and the second outlet pipe 22, and a water pump 4 is provided on the connecting pipe 3, the water pump 4 being used to drive water heated by the heating device of the first storage water heater 1 to flow through the connecting pipe 3 to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2, or to drive water heated by the heating device of the second storage water heater 2 to flow through the connecting pipe 3 to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1.

[0089] Please refer to the following: Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3In this specification, the hot water system may include multiple storage-type water heaters. Specifically, the hot water system may include a first storage-type water heater 1 and a second storage-type water heater 2. Of course, the hot water system may also include more storage-type water heaters. In this specification, the scenario including the first storage-type water heater 1 and the second storage-type water heater 2 is mainly used as an example for illustration. Other scenarios can be adapted to this scenario, and will not be described in detail here.

[0090] The specific form of the storage water heater can include any of the following: electric water heater, heat pump water heater, and solar water heater. Of course, the storage water heater can also take other forms, which are not specifically limited here. In this specification, the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2 are mainly illustrated as electric water heaters.

[0091] When the storage-type water heater is an electric water heater, the heating device can be in the form of at least one electric heating rod. Of course, the specific form of the heating device is not limited to the examples above. When the storage-type water heater is an electric water heater, it can have an outer shell and a hollow inner tank located within the outer shell, with an inner cavity formed inside the inner tank for storing water. The volume of this inner cavity corresponds to the water heater's capacity.

[0092] In this specification, the first storage water heater 1 may include a first inlet pipe 11 and a first outlet pipe 12 communicating with the inner cavity of the first storage water heater 1; the second storage water heater 2 may include a second inlet pipe 21 and a second outlet pipe 22 communicating with the inner cavity of the second storage water heater 2. Both the first inlet pipe 11 and the second inlet pipe 21 are connected to a cold water pipe 31. The first inlet pipe 11 is used to introduce cold water into the inner cavity of the first storage water heater 1, the first outlet pipe 12 is used to discharge hot water heated by the heating device, the second inlet pipe 21 is used to introduce cold water into the inner cavity of the second storage water heater 2, and the second outlet pipe 22 is used to discharge hot water heated by the heating device.

[0093] The first storage-type water heater 1 is installed at a first indoor location W1, and the second storage-type water heater 2 is installed at a second indoor location W2. The first inlet pipe 11 can serve as a cold water inlet pipe and is connected to a cold water pipe 31; the second inlet pipe 21 can also serve as a cold water inlet pipe and is connected to a cold water pipe 31. The first outlet pipe 12 can serve as a hot water outlet pipe, and it is connected to a first water terminal 61 at the first indoor location W1 via a first hot water pipe section 13. The second outlet pipe 22 can serve as a hot water outlet pipe, and it is connected to a second water terminal 62 at the second indoor location W2 via a second hot water pipe section 23. Specifically, the first indoor location W1 can be a user's first bathroom, and the second indoor location W2 can be a user's second bathroom.

[0094] The accompanying drawings in this specification mainly illustrate the case where the inlet and outlet pipes of a horizontal inner tank are installed on the bottom wall. Taking the first storage-type water heater 1 as an example, the outlet end of the first inlet pipe 11 is close to the bottom of the inner tank, and the inlet end of the first outlet pipe 12 is close to the top of the inner tank. It should be noted that the installation position and method of the inlet and outlet pipes are not limited to the examples above. For example, they can also be installed on the top or side of the inner tank, etc. This application does not make a unique limitation here.

[0095] A connecting pipe 3 is provided between the first outlet pipe 12 and the second outlet pipe 22. This connecting pipe 3 is used to connect the outlet (hot) water side of storage water heaters located at different installation positions indoors. Specifically, the connecting pipe 3 has a first port and a second port. The first port is connected to the first outlet pipe 12, or located in the first hot water pipe section 13 downstream of the first outlet pipe 12 along the hot water flow direction; the second port is connected to the second outlet pipe 22, or located in the second hot water pipe section 23 downstream of the second outlet pipe 22 along the hot water flow direction.

[0096] Furthermore, the first hot water pipe segment 13 has a first front end 131 and a first end 132. The first front end 131 is connected to the first water outlet pipe 12 and the connecting pipe 3, and the first end 132 is used to connect to the first water terminal 61. The second hot water pipe segment 23 has a second front end 231 and a second end 232. The second front end 231 is connected to the second water outlet pipe 22, and the second end 232 is used to connect to the connecting pipe 3 and the second water terminal 62.

[0097] The first front end 131 of the first hot water pipe section 13, the first outlet pipe 12, and the first port of the connecting pipe 3 can be connected by a tee connector. Similarly, the second front end 231 of the second hot water pipe section 23, the second outlet pipe 22, and the hot water pipe section on the other side of the second outlet pipe 22 can be connected by a tee connector. Of course, the connection relationships between the connecting pipe 3, the outlet pipe, and the hot water pipe sections are not limited to the examples described above.

[0098] When a connecting pipe 3 is installed between the two water outlet pipes, under the action of driving force, the water heated by the heating device in the first storage water heater 1 can flow through the connecting pipe 3 to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2; or the water heated by the heating device in the second storage water heater 2 can flow through the connecting pipe 3 to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1.

[0099] A water pump 4 is installed on the connecting pipe 3, which can be used to provide the driving force required for fluid flow. When the water pump 4 is installed on the connecting pipe 3, the water pump 4 can be used to drive the hot water flowing out of the first storage water heater 1 to flow through the connecting pipe 3 to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2, or drive the hot water flowing out of the second storage water heater 2 to flow through the connecting pipe 3 to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1.

[0100] Furthermore, the hot water system may also include: a controller (not shown in the figure) capable of acquiring operating parameters of the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2; the controller is integrated into the first storage water heater 1 and electrically connected to the second storage water heater 2; or, the controller is integrated into the second storage water heater 2 and electrically connected to the first storage water heater 1; or, the controller is independently configured and electrically connected to the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2. This controller is used to receive operating parameters from the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2. These operating parameters may include: current water temperature parameters, flow rate parameters, and power parameters of the heating device, etc. The specific location and form of the controller are not specifically limited in this application.

[0101] In the embodiments provided in this specification, a connecting pipe 3 is provided to connect the outlet pipes of the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2, connecting the outlet (hot) water side of the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2, thereby increasing the hot water supply of a single storage water heater. By installing a water pump 4 on the connecting pipe 3, when the hot water supply of any one storage water heater cannot meet the user's needs, starting the water pump 4 can supplement the hot water from the other storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the storage water heater through the connecting pipe 3, thus solving the problem of insufficient water supply when a single storage water heater supplies water, and the same water terminal can obtain the combined water supply from two storage water heaters. Compared with the existing method of multiple storage water heaters supplying water independently, this application can combine multiple storage water heaters, and can provide a large amount of water to the water terminal without increasing the volume and power of each storage water heater, or even reducing it, thus achieving the effect of providing a large amount of water with a small volume and low power water heater.

[0102] The outlet sides of each storage water heater in this hot water system can be connected through connecting pipe 3. When multiple storage water heaters supply water to the same water terminal at the same time, it can ensure that the water terminal has a large flow of water.

[0103] By installing a water pump 4 on the connecting pipe 3, starting the water pump 4 can overcome pipe resistance and increase water pressure, ensuring that the hot water system supplies a large water flow to any water terminal, thus improving the user's bathing experience.

[0104] Especially when the length of the connecting pipe 3 is relatively long, there is a large pipe resistance in the entire hot water system. When the water pump 4 is installed on the connecting pipe 3, the pipe resistance can be overcome, the water flow can be pressurized, and thus the water flow rate at the water terminal can be increased.

[0105] Furthermore, when the outlet side of a storage water heater is connected via connecting pipe 3, the hot water in each storage water heater can be utilized more efficiently. For example, a storage water heater may be used infrequently, in which case the water in its cavity is essentially in an ineffective state of heat preservation, resulting in some energy waste. When this storage water heater is combined with other storage water heaters, the hot water in these storage water heaters can be utilized more efficiently.

[0106] Furthermore, a switching device 5 may be provided on the connecting pipe 3. The switching device 5 includes at least two states. In the first state, the water pump 4 can drive the water in the first storage water heater 1 to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2. In the second state, the water pump 4 can drive the water in the second storage water heater 2 to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1.

[0107] In this embodiment, a switching device 5 may also be provided on the connecting pipe 3. The switching device 5 can be used to achieve mutual supplementation of hot water from two storage water heaters under the premise that the flow direction of the water pump 4 remains unchanged.

[0108] Specifically, the switching device 5 can take the form of a single switching valve or a combination of multiple switching valves and pipelines. The following will describe different implementation methods.

[0109] Please refer to the following: Figure 8 In some embodiments, the connecting pipeline 3 includes: a first pipeline 301 connected to the first water outlet pipe 12, a second pipeline 302 connected to the second water outlet pipe 22, and a water path switching module located between the first pipeline 301 and the second pipeline 302. The water path switching module includes the switching device 5 and the water pump 4.

[0110] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, specifically, the switching device 5 can be an integrated switching valve or a combination of multiple switching valves. The water pump 4 can be integrated with the switching valve, for example, as a water circuit module, or it can be installed separately. The switching device 5 can include a first switching valve and a second switching valve. Along the water flow direction, the first switching valve and the second switching valve are alternately located upstream and downstream of the water pump 4.

[0111] The first switching valve includes at least a first connected state and a second connected state, and the second switching valve includes at least a third connected state and a fourth connected state. When the first switching valve is in the first connected state and the second switching valve is in the third connected state, the water pump 4 can drive the water in the first storage water heater 1 to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2. When the first switching valve is in the second connected state and the second switching valve is in the fourth connected state, the water pump 4 can drive the water in the second storage water heater 2 to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1.

[0112] Specifically, the switching valve can be a two-position three-way valve, or other forms, which are not specifically limited herein. In this embodiment, a two-position three-way valve is used as an example for illustration.

[0113] The first switching valve can be a first two-position three-way valve A, and the second switching valve can be a second two-position three-way valve B. For example... Figure 2As shown, when the first storage water heater 1 located at the first indoor position W1 needs to replenish water to the water terminal of the second storage water heater 2 located at the second indoor position W2, the first two-position three-way valve A is connected at position c, and the second two-position three-way valve B is connected at position d. At this time, under the action of the water pump 4, the hot water in the first storage water heater 1 is driven to the water terminal of the second storage water heater 2 through the first outlet pipe 12 and the connecting pipe 3. The first two-position three-way valve A is located upstream of the water pump 4, and the second two-position three-way valve B is located downstream of the water pump 4.

[0114] like Figure 3 As shown, when the second storage water heater 2 located at the second indoor position W2 needs to replenish water to the water terminal of the first storage water heater 1 located at the first indoor position W1, the first two-position three-way valve A is connected at position a, and the second two-position three-way valve B is connected at position b. At this time, under the action of the water pump 4, the hot water in the second storage water heater 2 is driven to the water terminal of the first storage water heater 1 through the second outlet pipe 22 and the connecting pipe 3. The first two-position three-way valve A is located downstream of the water pump 4, and the second two-position three-way valve B is located upstream of the water pump 4.

[0115] like Figure 1 As shown, when the first two-position three-way valve A and the second two-position three-way valve B are in the open state, the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2 can supply water relatively independently without interfering with each other.

[0116] like Figure 5 As shown, the switching device 5 can be a combination of multiple solenoid valves and pipelines, or a combination of multiple switching valves and pipelines, or a combination of solenoid valves, switching valves, and pipelines. When the switching device 5 is a combination of switching valves and pipelines, it can include a first switching valve 51, a second switching valve 52, a third switching valve 53, and a fourth switching valve 54.

[0117] When the first storage water heater 1 located at the first indoor position W1 replenishes water to the water terminal of the second storage water heater 2 located at the second indoor position W2, the second switch valve 52 and the third switch valve 53 are in the closed state, while the first switch valve 51 and the fourth switch valve 54 can be in the open state. At this time, under the action of the water pump 4, the hot water in the first storage water heater 1 is driven to the water terminal of the second storage water heater 2 through the first outlet pipe 12 and the connecting pipe 3.

[0118] When the second storage water heater 2 located at the second indoor position W2 replenishes water to the water terminal of the first storage water heater 1 located at the first indoor position W1, the first switch valve 51 and the fourth switch valve 54 are closed, and the second switch valve 52 and the third switch valve 53 are open. At this time, under the action of the water pump 4, the hot water in the second storage water heater 2 is driven to the water terminal of the first storage water heater 1 through the second outlet pipe 22 and the connecting pipe 3.

[0119] When at least one of the first switching valve 51 and the fourth switching valve 54, and at least one of the second switching valve 52 and the third switching valve 53 are in the off state, the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2 can supply water relatively independently without interfering with each other.

[0120] In this instruction manual, such as Figures 1 to 5 As shown in any of the attached figures, the number of water pumps 4 can be one, or as shown in the attached figures... Figure 6 or Figure 7 As shown, the number of water pumps 4 can be two. Of course, the number of water pumps 4 can also be more than two, depending on the performance parameters of the water pumps 4 and the application scenario. Naturally, the form used to provide fluid driving force can also be other forms, and those skilled in the art can make other adaptive choices based on the content disclosed in this application.

[0121] When there is only one water pump 4, the water pump 4, in conjunction with the switching device 5, can maintain the direction of rotation of the water pump 4. Alternatively, the water pump 4 can be a pump with switchable rotation, for example, it can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. When the water pump 4 rotates clockwise, it can be used to drive the hot water flowing out of the first storage water heater 1 to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2. When the water pump 4 rotates counterclockwise, it can drive the hot water flowing out of the second storage water heater 2 to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1.

[0122] When there are at least two water pumps 4, such as a first pump 41 and a second pump 42, by reasonably setting the connection positions of the inlet and outlet of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 in the pipeline, it can be ensured that, under the premise that the direction of the pump does not change, the hot water from the first storage water heater 1 can be driven to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2, or the hot water from the second storage water heater 2 can be driven to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1.

[0123] like Figure 6As shown, the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 can be connected in series in the connecting pipe 3. The first pump 41 is used to drive the water heated by the heating device of the first storage water heater 1 to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2, and the second pump 42 is used to drive the water heated by the heating device of the second storage water heater 2 to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1.

[0124] The first pump 41 has a first inlet and a first outlet, and the second pump 42 has a second inlet and a second outlet. The first pump 41 and the second pump 42 can both rotate clockwise or both counterclockwise. The first inlet can be connected to a connecting pipe 3 near the first storage water heater 1, and the first outlet can be located near the second pump 42. The second outlet can be located near the first pump 41, and the second inlet can be connected to a connecting pipe 3 near the second storage water heater 2.

[0125] When the first storage water heater 1, located at the first indoor position W1, needs to replenish water to the water terminal of the second storage water heater 2, located at the second indoor position W2, only the second pump 42 needs to be activated. At this time, under the action of the second pump 42, the hot water in the first storage water heater 1 is driven to the water terminal of the second storage water heater 2 through the first outlet pipe 12 and the connecting pipe 3. When the second storage water heater 2, located at the second position, needs to replenish water to the water terminal of the first storage water heater 1, located at the first indoor position W1, only the first pump 41 needs to be activated. At this time, under the action of the first pump 41, the hot water in the second storage water heater 2 is driven to the water terminal of the first storage water heater 1 through the connecting pipe 3.

[0126] like Figure 7 As shown, the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 can be connected in parallel in the connecting pipe 3. When the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 are connected in parallel, in order to prevent the formation of an internal loop between the first pump 41 and the second pump 42, a first switching valve 51 can be connected in series on the branch where the first pump 41 is located, and a second switching valve 52 can be connected in series on the branch where the second pump 42 is located.

[0127] Specifically, the connecting pipe 3 may include: a first pipe 301 connected to the first outlet pipe 12, a second pipe 302 connected to the second outlet pipe 22, and an intermediate pipe 30 located between the first pipe 301 and the second pipe 302. The intermediate pipe 30 includes a first branch and a second branch connected in parallel. The first branch is equipped with a first pump 41 and a first switching valve 51; the second branch is equipped with a second pump 42 and a second switching valve 52. The first pump 41 is used to drive water heated by the heating device of the first storage water heater 1 to flow to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2, and the second pump 42 is used to drive water heated by the heating device of the second storage water heater 2 to flow to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1. The first switching valve 51 may be located upstream of the first pump 41, and the second switching valve 52 may be located upstream of the second pump 42 along the water flow direction.

[0128] When the first storage water heater 1, located at the first indoor position W1, needs to replenish water to the water terminal of the second storage water heater 2, located at the second indoor position W2, the second switch valve 52 can be opened, the first switch valve 51 can be closed, and the second pump 42 can be started. At this time, under the action of the second pump 42, the hot water in the first storage water heater 1 is driven to the second storage water heater 2 through the first outlet pipe 12 and the connecting pipe 3. When the second storage water heater 2, located at the second indoor position W2, needs to replenish water to the water terminal of the first storage water heater 1, located at the first indoor position W1, the first switch valve 51 can be opened, the second switch valve 52 can be closed, and the first pump 41 can be started. At this time, under the action of the first pump 41, the hot water in the second storage water heater 2 is driven to the water terminal of the first storage water heater 1 through the second outlet pipe 22 and the connecting pipe 3.

[0129] To ensure a clean and aesthetically pleasing installation while minimizing space occupation by the user, exposed components should be reduced as much as possible. In the water heater system provided in this specification, the water pump 4 and at least part of the connecting pipe 3 are housed within a reserved installation space. Furthermore, when the water heater system includes a switching device 5, this switching device 5 can also be installed within the reserved installation space. Specifically, the reserved installation space can be a groove in the wall or floor surface. Of course, the reserved installation space can vary depending on the actual installation location, and this application does not impose specific limitations here.

[0130] In one embodiment, the first storage water heater 1 is provided with a first flow switch or a first flow detection component 71 for detecting the water flow of the first storage water heater 1; the second storage water heater 2 is provided with a second flow switch or a second flow detection component 72 for detecting the water flow of the second storage water heater 2.

[0131] In this embodiment, the first storage water heater 1 may be equipped with a first flow switch or a first flow detection component 71 for detecting its water outlet status. The first flow switch is mainly used to detect whether the first storage water heater 1 is currently in the water outlet state; the first flow detection component 71 can detect whether the first storage water heater 1 is currently in the water outlet state, and can also detect the current flow rate value.

[0132] When the first water flow switch is installed on the first storage water heater 1, if a certain flow of fluid passes through the first water flow switch and triggers it, it indicates that the first storage water heater 1 is in a water supply state. Specifically, the first water flow switch can be installed in the water flow path of the first storage water heater 1 or in the water flow path between the first storage water heater 1 and its corresponding water terminal. For example, the first water flow switch can be located at the first inlet pipe 11, at the first outlet pipe 12, between the first inlet pipe 11 and the first outlet pipe 12, or in the downstream pipe of the first outlet pipe 12 along the water flow direction.

[0133] When the first storage-type water heater 1 is equipped with a first flow detection component 71, the flow rate through the pipe can be obtained using this component. Furthermore, this flow rate value can be transmitted to the controller for processing, and simultaneously, the flow rate value can be effectively recorded to determine the flow rate within a certain time period. In addition, the flow rate in the pipe can be controlled and regulated based on this flow rate value. Specifically, the first flow detection component 71 can be installed on the first inlet pipe 11, the first outlet pipe 12 connecting the first storage-type water heater 1, or in the pipe from the first outlet pipe 12 to the first water terminal 61.

[0134] The second flow switch and the second flow detection component 72 of the second storage water heater 2 can refer to the first flow switch and the first flow detection component 71 of the first storage water heater 1, and will not be described in detail here.

[0135] In one embodiment, both the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2 are equipped with a hot water volume detection component for detecting the amount of hot water inside the water heater cavity.

[0136] In this embodiment, a hot water volume detection component is installed inside the water heater to detect the amount of hot water. Based on the hot water volume detected by this component, the water supply mode of the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2 can be intelligently adjusted. Specifically, the hot water volume detection component can be at least one temperature sensor 81, or it can be any other component capable of determining the amount of hot water inside the water heater cavity.

[0137] like Figure 4 As shown, specifically, the hot water volume detection component can be a temperature sensor 81 used to detect the water temperature inside the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2.

[0138] In this embodiment, when the hot water volume detection component is in the form of a temperature sensor 81, it may include a plurality of temperature sensors 81 arranged along the height direction.

[0139] When there are multiple temperature sensors 81, the multiple temperature sensors 81 are respectively arranged along the height direction inside or outside the inner cavity of the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2. Among them, when the temperature sensor 81 is directly arranged inside the inner cavity, it can directly sense the water temperature. When the temperature sensor 81 is arranged outside the inner cavity, it can be arranged on the outer wall surface of the inner tank, and obtain the water temperature at the corresponding location by heat transfer.

[0140] Specifically, such as Figure 4 As shown, taking the hot water volume detection component as an example, which includes two temperature sensors 81, the two temperature sensors 81 are distributed one above the other, namely the upper temperature sensor 81 and the lower temperature sensor 81. The upper temperature sensor 81 is located in the corresponding hot water zone, and the lower temperature sensor 81 is located in the corresponding cold water zone. The height distance between the upper and lower temperature sensors 81 is a known quantity. Based on the upper and lower temperature sensors 81 and the height distance between them, the water temperature at any point along the entire height direction can be inferred, thereby obtaining the total hot water volume of the water heater.

[0141] After receiving signals from the upper and lower temperature sensors 81, the controller can determine the distribution of hot water in the water heater's inner tank, and thus obtain the hot water volume. Furthermore, based on the current hot water volume and the user-set outlet water temperature, it can determine whether the current hot water volume in the water heater's inner tank meets the user's needs.

[0142] In one embodiment, the hot water volume detection component is a temperature sensor 81 used to detect the water temperature of the first water outlet pipe 12 and the second water outlet pipe 22, respectively.

[0143] In this embodiment, when the hot water volume detection component is a temperature sensor 81 installed on the first outlet pipe 12 and the second outlet pipe 22, the water temperature obtained from the outlet pipe can be used to determine whether the hot water volume in the storage water heater currently in the water outlet state can meet the user's needs. If the outlet water temperature is too low, the water pump 4 can be turned on to add hot water from the other storage water heater.

[0144] In this specification, the aforementioned hot water system may include a first operating state and a second operating state. In the first operating state, the water pump 4 is in the start state, and the hot water flowing from the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2 is supplied to the same water terminal. In the second operating state, the water pump 4 is in the stop state, and the first storage water heater 1 and / or the second storage water heater 2 supplies water to the water terminal matched with it. In the second operating state, the connecting pipe 3 is not conductive.

[0145] When the hot water system is in its first operating state, the user's water demand is relatively high. The water pump 4 can drive the hot water flowing from the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2 to simultaneously supply water to the first water terminal 61 or the second water terminal 62. Specifically, it can adapt to the user's location. When the hot water system is in its first operating state, multiple storage water heaters can jointly supply water to one water terminal. When the hot water system is in its second operating state, the user's water demand may be relatively low. The water pump 4 can be stopped. At this time, depending on the user's actual location, the first storage water heater 1 can supply water to the first water terminal 61, or the second storage water heater 2 can supply water to the second water terminal 62, or the first storage water heater 1 supplies water to the first water terminal 61 while the second storage water heater 2 simultaneously supplies water to the second water terminal 62. When the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2 are in independent water supply mode, the connecting pipe 3 is not open to prevent temperature fluctuations caused by different outlet temperatures between the two water heaters. Specifically, the connecting pipe 3 can be de-opened by installing a switching device 5, or by installing switch valves on the inlet and outlet pipes of the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2. Of course, the methods for de-opening the connecting pipe 3 are not limited to the examples mentioned above.

[0146] In this specification, since the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2 are connected by a connecting pipe 3, for example, when a user uses water at the first water terminal 61 at the first location W1 indoors, if the water consumption is relatively large, the water pump 4 may be activated during use to guide the hot water in the inner cavity of the second storage water heater 2 to the first storage water heater 1 through the connecting pipe 3. However, due to the existence of the connecting pipe 3, compared to supplying water directly from the first storage water heater 1 to the first water terminal 61, there is at least pipe resistance in the connecting pipe when supplying water from the second storage water heater 2 to the first water terminal 61. This can cause flow fluctuations at the first water terminal 61, thus affecting the user's experience.

[0147] To ensure a stable water flow at the water terminal during the combined water supply of multiple water heaters, thereby guaranteeing a comfortable user experience, this manual provides some implementation methods. Before starting the water pump 4, parameters that characterize the water flow, such as flow rate and pressure, in the hot water system are obtained. After starting the water pump 4, the operating parameters of the water pump 4 are adjusted to maintain the flow rate, pressure, and other parameters in the hot water system before the water pump.

[0148] When the operating parameters of the water pump 4 are adjusted based on the detected flow rate, the first flow detection component 71 is installed on the first inlet pipe 11 and the second flow detection component 72 is installed on the second inlet pipe 21; or, the first flow detection component 71 is installed on the first outlet pipe 12 and the second flow detection component 72 is installed on the second outlet pipe 22. Alternatively, flow detection components can be installed on the first inlet pipe 11, the first outlet pipe 12, the second inlet pipe 21, and the second outlet pipe 22.

[0149] When the operating parameters of the water pump 4 are adjusted based on the detected pressure, the hot water system may further include a first pressure sensor for acquiring the internal pressure of the first storage water heater 1 and a second pressure sensor for acquiring the internal pressure of the second storage water heater 2.

[0150] Taking the first storage water heater 1 as an example, the first pressure sensor is used to detect the pressure inside the cavity of the first storage water heater. Specifically, the first pressure sensor can be set on the first inlet pipe, on the first outlet pipe, or at any position inside the cavity. This application does not make any specific limitation here. Similarly, the position of the second pressure sensor in the second storage water heater 2 is not specifically limited in this application.

[0151] In a specific application scenario, such as when two or more bathrooms are independently equipped with storage-type water heaters, the existing storage-type water heaters can be modified based on the hot water system provided by this invention. The outlet pipes of the storage-type water heaters are connected via a connecting pipe 3, and a water pump 4, or a water pump 4 and a switching device 5, can be installed on this connecting pipe 3, thereby transforming it into a hot water system with the same function as this invention. The entire modification cost is low and will not affect the original pipe connections.

[0152] In this specification, based on the hot water system provided in the above embodiments, this application also provides a control method for a hot water system; the control method may include:

[0153] The water pump 4 drives the hot water in the second storage water heater 2 to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1.

[0154] Alternatively, the water pump 4 can drive the hot water in the first storage water heater 1 to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2.

[0155] In this embodiment, by utilizing the connecting pipe 3 with the water pump 4 in the hot water system, the hot water in the second storage water heater 2 can be driven to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1, or the hot water in the first storage water heater 1 can be driven to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2, thereby realizing the connection between the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2, forming a hot water system, and increasing the hot water supply of a single storage water heater.

[0156] In practical use, the water pump 4 can be activated when the first storage water heater 1 starts supplying water to the user or after a predetermined water supply time, supplying hot water from the second storage water heater 2 to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1, thus increasing the hot water supply of the first storage water heater 1. The water supply from the second storage water heater 2 to the user is the same as that from the first storage water heater 1, and will not be described again here. Alternatively, when the hot water supply from any one storage water heater cannot meet the user's needs, the water pump 4 can be activated to supplement the hot water from the other storage water heater through the connecting pipe 3 to the water terminal on the side of that storage water heater, thereby solving the problem of insufficient water supply from a single storage water heater. Overall, compared to existing independent water supply systems, the storage water heaters at any location in this hot water system can provide a large volume of water to the water terminal without increasing, or even reducing, the volume and power of each storage water heater, thus achieving the effect of providing a large volume of water with a small volume and low power water heater.

[0157] Furthermore, the control method for this hot water system may also include the following steps:

[0158] When the hot water volume of the first storage water heater 1 is less than the first predetermined hot water volume, the water pump 4 drives the hot water in the second storage water heater 2 to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1 through the connecting pipe 3.

[0159] When the hot water volume of the second storage water heater 2 is less than the second predetermined hot water volume, the water pump 4 is used to drive the hot water in the first storage water heater 1 through the connecting pipe 3 to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2.

[0160] In this embodiment, when the hot water system includes a first storage water heater 1 and a second storage water heater 2, if the hot water supply of any one of the water heaters in the water supply state is insufficient, the water pump 4 can be activated to drive the hot water from the other water heater to the water heater in the water supply state. That is, multiple storage water heaters are connected, and the stored hot water is superimposed and supplied to the water terminal. Without changing the original water heater capacity and power, the user's large water consumption needs are met.

[0161] Based on the description of the above-described hot water system implementation method, the hot water system can be equipped with a controller. The controller can be electrically connected to the hot water volume detection component to obtain the current hot water volume of each storage water heater. In addition, the controller can also store or obtain the user-set target outlet water temperature. Based on the user-set target outlet water temperature and the current hot water volume of the storage water heater, it can be determined whether the hot water volume of the water heater in the water supply state can meet the user's water demand. If not, the water pump 4 can be started to supplement the hot water of the water heater in the water supply state using other water heaters, thereby meeting the user's water demand.

[0162] The first predetermined hot water volume can be obtained by learning the user's water usage habits, or it can be determined by the first outlet water temperature set by the user for the first storage water heater 1. Specifically, the real-time temperature obtained by the temperature sensor 81 installed at the first outlet pipe 12 can be compared with the first outlet water temperature. When the real-time temperature drops to close to or equal to the first outlet water temperature, it indicates that the current hot water volume is insufficient and lower than the first predetermined hot water volume, and the water pump 4 needs to be started to replenish the hot water.

[0163] Similarly, the second predetermined hot water volume can be obtained by learning the user's water usage habits, or it can be determined based on the second outlet water temperature set by the user for the second storage water heater 2. Specifically, the real-time temperature obtained by the temperature sensor 81 installed at the second outlet pipe 22 can be compared with the second outlet water temperature. When the real-time temperature drops to close to or equal to the second outlet water temperature, it indicates that the current hot water volume is insufficient and lower than the second predetermined hot water volume, and the water pump 4 needs to be started to replenish the hot water.

[0164] Of course, the method of determining the predetermined amount of hot water is not limited to the examples above. For example, it can also be estimated by the water temperature of various parts in the inner cavity, or other methods. This application does not limit it to a single method.

[0165] In one embodiment, the control method for the hot water system further includes: acquiring the water outlet status of the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2.

[0166] When the first storage water heater 1 is in the water-discharging state, the water pump 4 is activated to drive the hot water from the second storage water heater 2, which is in the non-discharging state and / or has a hot water volume greater than a third predetermined hot water volume, to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1; or...

[0167] When the second storage water heater 2 is in the water outlet state, the water pump 4 is started to drive the hot water in the first storage water heater 1, which is in the non-water outlet state and / or has a hot water volume greater than the fourth predetermined hot water volume, to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2.

[0168] In this embodiment, after obtaining the water outlet status of the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2, the storage water heater in the water outlet status can be identified.

[0169] Once the water outlet status of each storage water heater is identified, hot water can be directly supplied to the storage water heater in the water outlet status using the storage water heater that is not in the water outlet status and / or has a large hot water volume. Specifically, when the first storage water heater 1 is in the water outlet status, the water pump 4 can be activated to drive the hot water from the second storage water heater 2, which is either in the water outlet status or has a large hot water volume, or is both in the water outlet status and has a large hot water volume, to the first water terminal 61 on the side of the first storage water heater 1, so as to supply hot water to the first water terminal 61. The third predetermined hot water volume is greater than the first predetermined hot water volume; however, the specific value of the third predetermined hot water volume is not specifically limited herein.

[0170] When the second storage water heater 2 is in the water-discharging state, the water pump 4 can be activated to drive the hot water from the first storage water heater 1 (which is either not discharging water, or has a sufficiently large hot water volume, or is both not discharging water and has a sufficiently large hot water volume) to the second water terminal 62 on the side of the second storage water heater 2, so as to supply hot water to the second water terminal 62. The fourth predetermined hot water volume is greater than the second predetermined hot water volume; however, this application does not specifically limit the exact value of the fourth predetermined hot water volume.

[0171] In one embodiment, the control method for the hot water system may further include the following steps:

[0172] Obtain the water outlet status of the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2.

[0173] When the first storage water heater 1 is in the water-discharging state, and the amount of hot water in the first storage water heater 1 is less than a first predetermined amount of hot water, the water pump 4 is activated to drive the hot water from the second storage water heater 2, which is in the non-discharging state and / or has a hot water amount greater than a second predetermined amount of hot water, to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1; or,

[0174] When the second storage water heater 2 is in the water outlet state and the amount of hot water in the second storage water heater 2 is less than the second predetermined amount of hot water, the water pump 4 is started to drive the hot water in the first storage water heater 1, which is in the non-water outlet state and / or has a hot water amount greater than the first predetermined amount of hot water, to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2.

[0175] In this embodiment, the water outlet status of each storage water heater can be obtained. When one of the storage water heaters is in the water outlet state and the amount of hot water in the storage water heater is less than the predetermined amount of hot water, the water pump 4 is started to drive the hot water from another storage water heater that is not in the water outlet state and / or has a hot water amount greater than the predetermined amount of hot water to the water terminal on the side of the storage water heater.

[0176] In this embodiment, the water outlet status of the storage water heater in the hot water system can be determined first to identify storage water heaters that are in the water outlet state and those that are not in the water outlet state. Next, for the storage water heaters in the water outlet state, it can be determined whether their hot water volume is less than a predetermined hot water volume. This predetermined hot water volume can be learned based on the user's water usage habits, or it can be set through other methods; this application does not specifically limit the method.

[0177] When it is determined that the hot water output of a storage water heater currently in a water-discharging state is less than the predetermined hot water output, water pump 4 can be activated to drive the hot water from a storage water heater that is not in a water-discharging state to the water terminal on the side of the storage water heater in a water-discharging state. Alternatively, hot water from a storage water heater that is in a water-discharging state but has a hot water output greater than the predetermined hot water output can be driven to the water terminal on the side of the storage water heater with insufficient hot water, thereby meeting the user's water demand.

[0178] Taking a hot water system including a first storage water heater 1 and a second storage water heater 2 as an example.

[0179] After obtaining the water outlet status of the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2, when the first storage water heater 1 is in the water outlet state and the amount of hot water in the first storage water heater 1 is less than a first predetermined amount of hot water, the water pump 4 is started to drive the hot water in the second storage water heater 2, which is in the non-water outlet state and / or has a hot water amount greater than the second predetermined amount of hot water, to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1; or, when the second storage water heater 2 is in the water outlet state and the amount of hot water in the second storage water heater 2 is less than a second predetermined amount of hot water, the water pump 4 is started to drive the hot water in the first storage water heater 1, which is in the non-water outlet state and / or has a hot water amount greater than the first predetermined amount of hot water, to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater 2.

[0180] Specifically, the water outlet status of the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2 can be obtained based on the output signals of the first flow switch installed on the first storage water heater 1 and the second flow switch installed on the second storage water heater 2. The first and second flow switches can be electrically connected to a controller. When the first and second flow switches generate output signals due to user water usage, the controller can acquire these output signals and identify the water outlet status of each storage water heater in the hot water system based on these signals.

[0181] In one embodiment, the amount of hot water in the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2 can be obtained based on the temperature parameters detected by the temperature sensors 81 installed on the inner tanks of the first storage water heater 1 and the second storage water heater 2.

[0182] In this embodiment, the current hot water volume of each storage water heater in the hot water system can be obtained based on the parameters of the temperature sensor 81 installed on the inner tank. Specifically, the working principle of the temperature sensor 81 can be referred to the detailed description of the hot water system embodiment described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0183] In one embodiment, the hot water system may further include: when the first storage water heater 1 and / or the second storage water heater 2 output hot water to the user, if the amount of hot water in the first storage water heater 1 is greater than a first predetermined amount of hot water and the amount of hot water in the second storage water heater 2 is greater than a second predetermined amount of hot water, the water pump 4 is in a stopped state.

[0184] In this embodiment, when each storage water heater in the hot water system has sufficient heat recovery capacity, the water pump 4 stops working. At this time, the first storage water heater 1 can supply water to the first water terminal 61, or the second storage water heater 2 can supply water to the second water terminal 62, or the first storage water heater 1 can supply water to the first water terminal 61 while the second storage water heater 2 can supply water to the second water terminal 62, and the two do not affect each other.

[0185] In one embodiment, the control method for the hot water system further includes:

[0186] The system determines whether the hot water output of the first storage water heater 1, which is in the water outlet state, has reached a fifth predetermined hot water volume, wherein the fifth predetermined hot water volume is greater than the first predetermined hot water volume; when the hot water output of the first storage water heater 1 reaches the fifth predetermined hot water volume, the water pump 4 is stopped; or...

[0187] The system determines whether the hot water volume of the second storage water heater 2, which is in the water outlet state, has reached the sixth predetermined hot water volume, wherein the sixth predetermined hot water volume is greater than the second predetermined hot water volume; when the hot water volume of the second storage water heater 2 reaches the sixth predetermined hot water volume, the water pump 4 is in a stopped state.

[0188] In this embodiment, taking the first storage water heater 1 as an example, when the hot water supply of the first storage water heater 1 is insufficient, and hot water is supplied to the first water terminal 61 by the second storage water heater 2, the heating device of the first storage water heater 1 is continuously working, which can heat the water in the first storage water heater 1, thereby increasing the hot water supply of the first storage water heater 1 itself. When the hot water supply of the first storage water heater 1 increases to a fifth predetermined hot water supply, its own hot water supply can meet the user's needs again. At this time, the water pump 4 can be stopped, and the first storage water heater 1 can resume supplying water to the first water terminal 61. Wherein, the fifth predetermined hot water volume is greater than the first predetermined hot water volume. This application does not make a specific limit on the specific value of the fifth predetermined hot water volume. In principle, the larger the fifth predetermined hot water volume, the greater the probability that water will be supplied to the first water terminal 61 by the first storage water heater 1. Correspondingly, the greater the probability that the water pump 4 will not need to be started again to replenish hot water. Conversely, if the fifth predetermined hot water volume is smaller, the water pump 4 may need to be started again or multiple times to replenish hot water.

[0189] When the hot water supply of the second storage water heater 2 is insufficient, and hot water is supplied to the second water terminal 62 using hot water from the first storage water heater 1, the heating device of the second storage water heater 2 is continuously working, heating the water in the second storage water heater 2 to increase its own hot water supply. When the hot water supply of the second storage water heater 2 reaches the sixth predetermined hot water volume, its own hot water volume can meet the user's needs. At this time, the water pump 4 can be stopped, and the second storage water heater 2 can resume supplying water to the second water terminal 62. The sixth predetermined hot water volume is greater than the second predetermined hot water volume. This application does not specify the exact value of the sixth predetermined hot water volume. In principle, the larger the sixth predetermined hot water volume, the greater the probability that the second storage water heater 2 will supply water to the second water terminal 62, and correspondingly, the greater the probability that the water pump 4 will not need to be restarted to replenish hot water. Conversely, if the sixth predetermined hot water volume is small, the water pump 4 may need to be restarted again or multiple times to replenish hot water.

[0190] In one embodiment, to ensure a stable water flow rate at the water terminal during the combined water supply process of multiple water heaters, the control method of the hot water system may further include:

[0191] Before starting the water pump 4, obtain any one or a combination of the following: the inlet flow rate, the outlet flow rate, and the internal pressure of the storage water heater when it is in the outlet state.

[0192] Start water pump 4, and adjust the operating parameters of water pump 4 based on any one or a combination of the inlet flow rate, outlet flow rate, and internal pressure of the storage water heater when it is in the outlet state, until the difference between the flow rate from the storage water heater in the outlet state to the water terminal and the flow rate to the water terminal before starting water pump 4 is within a predetermined range.

[0193] The water pump 4 is a variable frequency pump, and its operating parameters may include any one of the following: power, speed, duty cycle, frequency, and head. However, the operating parameters of the water pump 4 are not limited to the examples above. In this embodiment, power is used as the primary operating parameter for illustration.

[0194] The water flow rate of the storage water heater in the outlet state can be the same as or close to the flow rate from the storage water heater to the water terminal before the water pump 4 is started. This predetermined range can be 0 or a small flow fluctuation range. When the predetermined range is not 0, in principle, the flow fluctuation should be within the range that is acceptable to the user.

[0195] The following will introduce different implementation methods for adjusting the operating parameters of the water pump 4 by acquiring parameters that can characterize the water flow, such as flow rate and pressure in the hot water system.

[0196] In one embodiment, the first inlet pipe 11 of the first storage water heater 1 is provided with a first flow detection component 71, and the second inlet pipe 21 of the second storage water heater 2 is provided with a second flow detection component 72. The control method further includes:

[0197] When the first storage water heater 1 is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump 4, the inlet flow rate of the first flow detection component 71 is obtained, the water pump 4 is started, and the power of the water pump 4 is adjusted until the difference between the flow rate detected by the second flow detection component 72 and the inlet flow rate obtained by the first flow detection component 71 is within a predetermined range.

[0198] When the second storage water heater 2 is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump 4, the inlet flow rate of the second flow detection component 72 is obtained, the water pump 4 is started, and the power of the water pump 4 is adjusted until the difference between the flow rate of the first flow detection component 71 and the obtained inlet flow rate of the second flow detection component 72 is within a predetermined range.

[0199] In this embodiment, before starting the water pump 4, the inlet flow rate of the storage water heater in the outlet state can be obtained, the water pump 4 can be started, and the power of the water pump 4 can be adjusted until the difference between the inlet flow rate detected by the flow detection component of the storage water heater in the replenishment state and the inlet flow rate obtained by the flow detection component of the storage water heater in the outlet state is within a predetermined range.

[0200] It should be noted that the controller can receive the inlet flow rate of the storage water heater (taking the first storage water heater 1 as an example) in the water outlet state from the flow detection component before the water pump 4 is turned on, and then store it as a reference flow rate. After the water pump 4 is started, during the process of adjusting the power of the water pump 4, the second flow detection component 72 is used to obtain the inlet flow rate of the second storage water heater 2, and the inlet flow rate is compared with the reference flow rate. When the inlet flow rate is close to the reference flow rate, for example, when the difference between the two is within a predetermined range, the adjustment can be stopped. The predetermined range can be set according to the actual accuracy requirements. In principle, the flow fluctuation should be within the range that is acceptable to the user.

[0201] In another embodiment, the first outlet pipe 12 of the first storage water heater 1 is provided with a first flow detection component 71, and the second outlet pipe 22 of the second storage water heater 2 is provided with a second flow detection component 72. The control method further includes:

[0202] When the first storage water heater 1 is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump, the water outlet flow rate of the first flow detection component 71 is obtained, the water pump 4 is started, and the power of the water pump 4 is adjusted until the difference between the flow rate of the second flow detection component 72 and the obtained water outlet flow rate of the first flow detection component 71 is within a predetermined range.

[0203] When the second storage water heater 2 is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump 4, the water outlet flow rate of the second flow detection component 72 is obtained, the water pump 4 is started, and the power of the water pump 4 is adjusted until the difference between the flow rate of the first flow detection component 71 and the obtained water outlet flow rate of the second flow detection component 72 is within a predetermined range.

[0204] In this embodiment, before starting the water pump 4, the water flow rate of the storage water heater in the water outlet state can be obtained, the water pump 4 can be started, and the power of the water pump 4 can be adjusted until the difference between the water flow rate of the flow detection component of the storage water heater in the water outlet state and the previously obtained water flow rate is within a predetermined range.

[0205] It should be noted that the controller can receive the water flow rate of the storage water heater (taking the first storage water heater 1 as an example) in the water-discharging state from the flow detection component before the water pump 4 is turned on, and then store it as a reference flow rate. After the water pump 4 is started, during the process of adjusting the power of the water pump 4, the water flow rate of the first storage water heater 1 is detected. When the water flow rate is close to the reference flow rate, for example, when the difference between the two is within a predetermined range, the adjustment can be stopped. The predetermined range can be set according to the actual accuracy requirements. In principle, the flow rate fluctuation should be within the range that is acceptable to the user.

[0206] In another embodiment, the first storage water heater 1 is provided with a first pressure sensor for acquiring the internal cavity pressure, and the second storage water heater 2 is provided with a second pressure sensor for acquiring the internal cavity pressure; the control method further includes:

[0207] When the first storage water heater 1 is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump 4, the pressure of the first pressure sensor is obtained, the water pump 4 is started, and the power of the water pump 4 is adjusted until the difference between the pressure obtained by the second pressure sensor and the pressure obtained by the first pressure sensor is within a predetermined range.

[0208] When the second storage water heater 2 is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump 4, the pressure of the second pressure sensor is obtained, the water pump 4 is started, and the power of the water pump 4 is adjusted until the difference between the pressure obtained by the first pressure sensor and the pressure obtained by the second pressure sensor is within a predetermined range.

[0209] In this embodiment, before starting the water pump 4, the pressure of the storage water heater in the water outlet state can be obtained, the water pump 4 can be started, and the power of the water pump 4 can be adjusted until the difference between the pressure of the storage water heater in the water replenishment state and the obtained pressure of the storage water heater in the water outlet state is within a predetermined range.

[0210] It should be noted that the controller can receive the pressure of the water-discharging storage water heater (taking the first storage water heater 1 as an example) transmitted by the pressure sensor, and then store it as a reference pressure. After the water pump 4 is started, during the adjustment of the power of the water pump 4, the pressure in the inner cavity of the second storage water heater 2 detected by the second pressure sensor is compared with this reference pressure. When the detected pressure is close to the reference pressure, for example, when the difference between the two is within a predetermined range, the adjustment can be stopped. This predetermined range can be set according to the actual accuracy requirements; in principle, the flow fluctuation should be within a range acceptable to the user.

[0211] In one embodiment, the control method may further include: storing the adjusted operating parameters of the water pump 4, and adjusting the operating parameters of the water pump 4 to the stored operating parameters when the water pump 4 is restarted.

[0212] In this embodiment, after the controller stores the adjusted operating parameters of the water pump 4, the stored operating parameters can be used as a subsequent judgment benchmark. When the water pump 4 is started again, the operating parameters of the water pump 4 can be directly adjusted to the stored operating parameters.

[0213] Of course, after the hot water system has been used for a period of time, the above process can be repeated to perform self-learning again, so that the hot water system can more intelligently match the user's water usage habits.

[0214] Furthermore, the water pump 4 is a variable frequency pump. During the process of adjusting the operating parameters of the water pump 4, the operating parameters change with a predetermined gradient, so that the water flow rate of the storage water heater in the water outlet state is gradually adjusted to the water flow rate of the storage water heater in the water outlet state before the water pump 4 is started.

[0215] When the water pump 4 is a variable frequency pump, that is, when the operating parameters of the water pump 4 are adjustable, the operating parameters of the water pump 4 can be gradually increased or decreased in a certain gradient during the specific adjustment process, so as to adjust it more smoothly until it is finally determined that the water flow rate of the storage water heater in the water outlet state meets the requirements and then the adjustment is stopped.

[0216] like Figure 9As shown, in a specific application scenario, when the hot water system is turned on, it can provide users with two selectable modes. Mode 1 is single-electric mode, in which the water pump 4 and the switching device 5 are in the OFF state; Mode 2 is dual-electric mode, in which the water heaters can be connected according to water demand.

[0217] If the user selects to enter dual-power mode, or if the machine automatically prioritizes entering dual-power mode upon startup, the controller first detects water usage, determining which water heater is currently dispensing water. If it determines that the first storage water heater 1 is dispensing water, its hot water volume can be detected. When the current hot water volume of the first storage water heater 1 is greater than a first predetermined hot water volume (i.e., the result is Y), it indicates that the hot water volume of the first storage water heater 1 can meet the user's needs, and the water pump 4 and switching device 5 are in the OFF state. Subsequently, the hot water volume is continuously detected. When the hot water volume decreases to the first predetermined hot water volume (i.e., the result is N), the hot water volume of the second storage water heater 2 can be detected. When the hot water volume of the second storage water heater 2 is greater than the second predetermined hot water volume (i.e., the result is Y), the water pump 4 is activated, and the switching device 5 is switched to the first position. At this time, the hot water from the second storage water heater 2 replenishes the water supply terminal on the side of the first storage water heater 1, and the two water heaters jointly supply water, thereby meeting the user's large water volume needs.

[0218] When the first storage water heater 1 is continuously in the water-discharging state, the controller can continuously detect the hot water volume of the first storage water heater 1 and determine whether the hot water volume of the first storage water heater 1 in the water-discharging state has reached the fifth predetermined hot water volume. When the hot water volume of the first storage water heater 1 reaches the fifth predetermined hot water volume (i.e., the determination result is Y), the water pump 4 is stopped, and the first storage water heater 1 resumes supplying water to the first water terminal 61. When switching back to the first storage water heater 1 to supply water, the second storage water heater 2 may have surplus hot water. At this time, the hot water in the second storage water heater 2 can be used up before switching back to the first storage water heater 1 to supply water. Those skilled in the art, under the guidance of the technical essence of this application, may make other modifications to the specific control logic, but as long as the functions and effects achieved are the same as or similar to those of this application, they should all be covered within the scope of protection of this application.

[0219] When the second storage water heater 2 is in the water outlet state, it can refer to the specific control logic of the first storage water heater 1 mentioned above, which will not be elaborated here.

[0220] All articles and references disclosed herein, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated herein by reference for various purposes. The term “substantially constitutes…” used to describe a combination should include the identified element, component, part, or step, as well as other elements, components, parts, or steps that do not substantially affect the essential novelty of the combination. The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” to describe combinations of elements, components, parts, or steps herein also contemplates embodiments substantially constituted by such elements, components, parts, or steps. The use of the term “may” herein is intended to indicate that any described attribute “may” include is optional. Multiple elements, components, parts, or steps can be provided by a single integrated element, component, part, or step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, component, part, or step can be divided into multiple separate elements, components, parts, or steps. The disclosure of “a” or “an” used to describe an element, component, part, or step does not imply exclusion of other elements, components, parts, or steps.

[0221] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on its differences from other embodiments. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. The above embodiments are only for illustrating the technical concept and features of the present invention, and are intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand the content of the present invention and implement it accordingly. They should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention. All equivalent changes or modifications made according to the spirit and essence of the present invention should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A hot water system, characterized in that, include: A first storage-type water heater equipped with a heating device; A second storage water heater equipped with a heating device; The first storage water heater is equipped with a first inlet pipe and a first outlet pipe; The second storage water heater is equipped with a second inlet pipe and a second outlet pipe; A connecting pipe is provided for the first water outlet pipe and the second water outlet pipe. A water pump is provided on the connecting pipe. The water pump is used to drive the water heated by the heating device of the first storage water heater to flow through the connecting pipe to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater, or to drive the water heated by the heating device of the second storage water heater to flow through the connecting pipe to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater. The connecting pipe has a first port and a second port. The first port is connected to the first outlet pipe or located in the first hot water pipe section downstream of the first outlet pipe along the direction of hot water flow. The second port is connected to the second outlet pipe, or located in the second hot water pipe section downstream of the second outlet pipe along the direction of hot water flow.

2. The hot water system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first inlet pipe and the second inlet pipe are connected to the cold water pipeline. The first inlet pipe is used to introduce cold water into the inner cavity of the first storage water heater. The first outlet pipe is used to export the hot water heated by the heating device. The second inlet pipe is used to introduce cold water into the inner cavity of the second storage water heater. The second outlet pipe is used to export the hot water heated by the heating device.

3. The hot water system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting pipeline is also equipped with a switching device, which includes at least two states. In the first state, the water pump can drive the water in the first storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater; in the second state, the water pump can drive the water in the second storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater.

4. The hot water system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The connecting pipeline includes: a first pipeline connected to the first outlet pipe, a second pipeline connected to the second outlet pipe, and a water path switching module located between the first pipeline and the second pipeline. The water path switching module includes the switching device and the water pump. The switching device includes a first switching valve and a second switching valve. Along the water flow direction, the first switching valve and the second switching valve are alternately located upstream and downstream of the water pump. The first switching valve includes at least a first connected state and a second connected state, and the second switching valve includes at least a third connected state and a fourth connected state. When the first switching valve is in the first connected state and the second switching valve is in the third connected state, the water pump can drive the water in the first storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater. When the first switching valve is in the second connected state and the second switching valve is in the fourth connected state, the water pump can drive the water in the second storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater.

5. The hot water system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The water pump includes a first pump and a second pump, which are connected in series in the connecting pipeline. The first pump is used to drive water heated by the heating device of the first storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater, and the second pump is used to drive water heated by the heating device of the second storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater.

6. The hot water system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The water pump includes a first pump and a second pump; The connecting pipeline includes: a first pipeline connected to the first outlet pipe, a second pipeline connected to the second outlet pipe, and an intermediate pipeline located between the first pipeline and the second pipeline. The intermediate pipeline includes a first branch and a second branch connected in parallel. The first branch is equipped with the first pump and a first switching valve. The second branch is equipped with the second pump and a second switching valve. The first pump is used to drive the water heated by the heating device of the first storage water heater to flow to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater. The second pump is used to drive the water heated by the heating device of the second storage water heater to flow to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater.

7. The hot water system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first hot water pipe section has a first front end and a first end. The first front end is connected to the first water outlet pipe and the connecting pipe, and the first end is used to connect to the first water terminal. The second hot water pipe section has a second front end and a second end. The second front end is connected to the second outlet pipe, and the second end is used to connect the connecting pipe and the second water terminal.

8. The hot water system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The hot water system includes a first operating state and a second operating state. In the first working state, the water pump is in the start state, and the hot water flowing out of the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater is supplied to the same water terminal. In the second operating state, the water pump is stopped, and the first storage water heater and / or the second storage water heater supplies water to the matching water terminal.

9. The hot water system as described in claim 8, characterized in that, In the second working state, the connecting pipeline is not conductive.

10. The hot water system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The first storage water heater is installed in the first location indoors, and the second storage water heater is installed in the second location indoors.

11. The hot water system as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The water pump and at least part of the connecting pipeline are located within the reserved installation space.

12. The hot water system as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The first storage water heater is equipped with a first flow switch or a first flow detection component to detect the water flow of the first storage water heater; the second storage water heater is equipped with a second flow switch or a second flow detection component to detect the water flow of the second storage water heater.

13. The hot water system as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The first flow detection component is installed on the first water inlet pipe, and the second flow detection component is installed on the second water inlet pipe; or... The first flow detection component is installed on the first water outlet pipe, and the second flow detection component is installed on the second water outlet pipe.

14. The hot water system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Both the first and second storage water heaters are equipped with a hot water volume detection component to detect the amount of hot water inside the water heater cavity.

15. The hot water system as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The hot water volume detection component is a temperature sensor used to detect the water temperature inside the first and second storage water heaters.

16. The hot water system as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The number of temperature sensors is multiple, and the multiple temperature sensors are respectively installed inside or outside the cavity of the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater along the height direction.

17. The hot water system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a first pressure sensor for acquiring the pressure inside the first storage water heater and a second pressure sensor for acquiring the pressure inside the second storage water heater.

18. The hot water system as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The hot water volume detection component is a temperature sensor used to detect the water temperature of the first water outlet pipe and the second water outlet pipe, respectively.

19. The hot water system according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, The hot water system further includes a controller capable of acquiring the operating parameters of the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater. The controller is integrated into the first storage water heater, and the controller is electrically connected to the second storage water heater; or... The controller is integrated into the second storage water heater, and the controller is electrically connected to the first storage water heater; or... The controller is set up independently and is electrically connected to the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater.

20. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, include: The water pump drives the hot water in the second storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater; Alternatively, the water pump drives the hot water in the first storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater.

21. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 20, characterized in that, Also includes: When the hot water volume of the first storage water heater is less than the first predetermined hot water volume, the water pump drives the hot water in the second storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater through the connecting pipe; When the hot water volume of the second storage water heater is less than the second predetermined hot water volume, the water pump is used to drive the hot water in the first storage water heater to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater through the connecting pipe.

22. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 20, characterized in that, Also includes: Obtain the water outlet status of the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater. When the first storage water heater is in the water-discharging state, the water pump is activated to drive hot water from the second storage water heater, which is in the non-discharging state and / or has a hot water volume greater than a third predetermined hot water volume, to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater; or... When the second storage water heater is in the water outlet state, the water pump is started to drive the hot water in the first storage water heater, which is in the non-water outlet state and / or has a hot water volume greater than the fourth predetermined hot water volume, to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater.

23. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 21, characterized in that, Also includes: Obtain the water outlet status of the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater. When the first storage water heater is in the water-discharging state and the amount of hot water in the first storage water heater is less than a first predetermined amount of hot water, the water pump is activated to drive the hot water from the second storage water heater, which is in the non-discharging state and / or has a hot water amount greater than a second predetermined amount of hot water, to the water terminal on the side of the first storage water heater; or, When the second storage water heater is in the water outlet state and the amount of hot water in the second storage water heater is less than the second predetermined amount of hot water, the water pump is started to drive the hot water in the first storage water heater, which is in the non-water outlet state and / or has a hot water amount greater than the first predetermined amount of hot water, to the water terminal on the side of the second storage water heater.

24. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 22 or 23, characterized in that, The water output status of the first storage water heater and the second storage water heater is obtained based on the output signals of the first flow switch installed on the first storage water heater and the second flow switch installed on the second storage water heater.

25. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 22 or 23, characterized in that, The amount of hot water in the first and second storage water heaters is obtained based on the temperature parameters detected by temperature sensors installed on the inner tanks of the first and second storage water heaters.

26. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 21, characterized in that, Also includes: When the first storage water heater and / or the second storage water heater outputs hot water to the user, if the amount of hot water in the first storage water heater is greater than a first predetermined amount of hot water and the amount of hot water in the second storage water heater is greater than a second predetermined amount of hot water, the water pump is in a stopped state.

27. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 23, characterized in that, The control method further includes: The system determines whether the hot water output of the first storage water heater in the water-discharging state has reached a fifth predetermined hot water volume, wherein the fifth predetermined hot water volume is greater than the first predetermined hot water volume; when the hot water output of the first storage water heater reaches the fifth predetermined hot water volume, the water pump is stopped; or... The system determines whether the hot water volume of the second storage water heater in the water outlet state has reached the sixth predetermined hot water volume, wherein the sixth predetermined hot water volume is greater than the second predetermined hot water volume; when the hot water volume of the second storage water heater reaches the sixth predetermined hot water volume, the water pump is in a stopped state.

28. The control method for a hot water system as described in any one of claims 20 to 23, characterized in that, The control method further includes: Before starting the water pump, obtain any one or a combination of the following: the inlet flow rate, the outlet flow rate, and the internal pressure of the storage water heater when it is in the water outlet state. Start the water pump and adjust its operating parameters until the difference between the flow rate from the storage water heater to the water terminal when the water is in the outlet state and the flow rate to the water terminal before starting the water pump is within a predetermined range.

29. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 28, characterized in that, The operating parameters of the water pump include any one of the following: power, speed, duty cycle, frequency, and head.

30. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 29, characterized in that, The first inlet pipe of the first storage water heater is equipped with a first flow detection component, and the second inlet pipe of the second storage water heater is equipped with a second flow detection component. The control method further includes: When the first storage water heater is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump, the inlet flow rate of the first flow detection component is obtained, the water pump is started, and the power of the water pump is adjusted until the difference between the flow rate of the second flow detection component and the obtained inlet flow rate of the first flow detection component is within a predetermined range. When the second storage water heater is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump, the inlet flow rate of the second flow detection component is obtained, the water pump is started, and the power of the water pump is adjusted until the difference between the flow rate of the first flow detection component and the obtained inlet flow rate of the second flow detection component is within a predetermined range.

31. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 29, characterized in that, The first outlet pipe of the first storage water heater is equipped with a first flow detection component, and the second outlet pipe of the second storage water heater is equipped with a second flow detection component. The control method further includes: When the first storage water heater is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump, the water outlet flow rate of the first flow detection component is obtained, the water pump is started, and the power of the water pump is adjusted until the difference between the flow rate of the second flow detection component and the obtained water outlet flow rate of the first flow detection component is within a predetermined range. When the second storage water heater is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump, the water outlet flow rate of the second flow detection component is obtained, the water pump is started, and the power of the water pump is adjusted until the difference between the flow rate of the first flow detection component and the obtained water outlet flow rate of the second flow detection component is within a predetermined range.

32. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 29, characterized in that, The first storage-type water heater is equipped with a first pressure sensor for acquiring the internal cavity pressure, and the second storage-type water heater is equipped with a second pressure sensor for acquiring the internal cavity pressure; the control method further includes: When the first storage water heater is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump, the pressure of the first pressure sensor is obtained, the water pump is started, and the power of the water pump is adjusted until the difference between the pressure obtained by the second pressure sensor and the pressure obtained by the first pressure sensor is within a predetermined range. When the second storage water heater is in the water outlet state, before starting the water pump, the pressure of the second pressure sensor is obtained, the water pump is started, and the power of the water pump is adjusted until the difference between the pressure obtained by the first pressure sensor and the pressure obtained by the second pressure sensor is within a predetermined range.

33. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 28, characterized in that, The control method further includes: storing the adjusted operating parameters of the water pump, and adjusting the operating parameters of the water pump to the stored operating parameters when the water pump is restarted.

34. The control method for a hot water system as described in claim 28, characterized in that, The water pump is a variable frequency pump. During the process of adjusting the operating parameters of the water pump, the operating parameters change with a predetermined gradient, so that the water flow rate of the storage water heater in the water outlet state is gradually adjusted to the water flow rate of the storage water heater in the water outlet state before the water pump is started.

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