Zero-cold-water modules and appliances

Abstract

This application relates to the field of gas appliance technology, and its embodiments provide a zero-cold-water module and a gas appliance incorporating the zero-cold-water module. The zero-cold-water module includes at least a heat storage unit, a bathroom outlet pipe, a bathroom return pipe, and a first switching device. Because a heat storage unit with heat storage function is used, the heat storage unit and the user end can form an independent circulation loop for heating bathroom water, avoiding frequent appliance starts and extending the appliance's lifespan. Simultaneously, since this independent circulation loop is connected to the water supply pipe, the water in the circulation loop is running water, reducing the frequency of cleaning the heat storage unit and improving the quality of the bathroom water.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of gas appliance technology, and in particular to a zero-cold-water module and a gas appliance having the zero-cold-water module. Background Technology

[0002] In some related technologies, gas-fired heating and hot water boilers use a circulation pump to recirculate and reheat residual cold water from the hot water pipes, achieving a zero-cold-water effect. However, this process requires frequent starts of the boiler, reducing the lifespan of related components and increasing gas consumption. To address this issue, other gas-fired heating and hot water boilers have an external water tank. This tank stores hot water of a certain volume, allowing residual cold water from the pipes to be recirculated and reheated without passing through the boiler. However, over time, bacteria, microorganisms, and sediment can accumulate in the tank, affecting the quality of the hot water and requiring regular cleaning and maintenance, which is inconvenient. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a zero-cold-water module and a gas appliance with the zero-cold-water module to address the above-mentioned technical problems, so as to solve the problems of frequent gas appliance start-up and the need for regular cleaning of hot water storage tanks, thereby improving the service life of gas appliances and the quality of bathroom water.

[0004] According to one aspect of this application, an embodiment of this application provides a zero-cold-water module for use in a gas appliance, the gas appliance including a heat exchange device, the zero-cold-water module comprising:

[0005] A heat storage unit is connected to the heat exchange device so that the fluid is heated after flowing through the heat exchange device and then flows to the heat storage unit, thereby storing heat in the heat storage unit; the heat storage unit is provided with a heat storage inlet pipe and a heat storage outlet pipe that are connected to the heat exchange device, and the heat storage outlet pipe is connected to a water supply pipe.

[0006] Bathroom water outlet pipe and bathroom water return pipe, wherein the bathroom water return pipe is connected to the heat storage water inlet pipe;

[0007] The first switching device is configured to connect or disconnect the inlet of the bathroom water outlet pipe from the outlet of the thermal storage water outlet pipe.

[0008] A driving structure, located on the fluid path through which the fluid flows into or out of the thermal storage unit, is used to drive the fluid through the thermal storage unit to exchange heat with it; and

[0009] A controller, which controls the first switching device and the drive structure.

[0010] The aforementioned zero-cold-water module includes at least a heat storage unit, a bathroom outlet pipe, a bathroom return pipe, and a first switching device. Because it uses a heat storage unit with heat storage function, the heat storage unit and the user end can form an independent circulation loop for heating bathroom water, avoiding frequent appliance starts and extending appliance lifespan. Simultaneously, since this independent circulation loop is connected to the water supply pipe, the water in the circulation loop is running water, reducing the frequency of cleaning the heat storage unit and improving bathroom water quality.

[0011] In one embodiment, the thermal storage unit includes a shell, a heat exchanger, and a phase change material, wherein the heat exchanger and the phase change material are disposed inside the shell, and the phase change material is filled between the heat exchanger and the shell;

[0012] The heat exchanger has an inlet end connected to the heat storage inlet pipe and an outlet end connected to the heat storage outlet pipe.

[0013] The inlet end of the heat exchanger is connected to the heat storage inlet pipe, and the outlet end of the heat exchanger is connected to the heat storage outlet pipe. Because the heat storage capacity of phase change thermal storage material is higher than the specific heat capacity of water, it has a smaller volume than hot water storage methods, and it does not directly heat and store hot water, thus avoiding scale buildup due to high-temperature storage.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first switching device is provided with a first switching port and a second switching port;

[0015] The first switching port is connected to the outlet of the thermal storage water outlet pipe, and the second switching port is connected to the inlet of the bathroom water outlet pipe;

[0016] The first switching device has a first state; when the first switching device is in the first state, the first switching port is connected to the second switching port. Thus, by providing a first switching device with a switching port, it is possible to select whether to connect the thermal storage outlet pipe and the bathroom outlet pipe, thereby enabling the formation of an independent circulation loop for heating bathroom water between the thermal storage unit and the user end.

[0017] In one embodiment, a bypass pipe is provided on the thermal storage outlet pipe;

[0018] The first switching port is connected to the outlet of the thermal storage outlet pipe via the bypass pipe. Thus, by providing the bypass pipe, the first switching port can be connected to the outlet of the thermal storage outlet pipe.

[0019] In one embodiment, the zero cold water module further includes a second switching device located between the second switching port and the inlet of the bathroom water outlet pipe, the second switching device having a fourth switching port, a fifth switching port and a sixth switching port;

[0020] The fourth switching port is connected to the second switching port, the fifth switching port is connected to the inlet of the bathroom water outlet pipe, and the sixth switching port is connected to the bathroom outlet end of the heat exchange device.

[0021] The second switching device has a second state and a third state. When the second switching device is in the second state, the fourth switching port is connected to the fifth switching port. When the second switching device is in the third state, the fifth switching port is connected to the sixth switching port. By setting the second switching device, the bath water can also be heated through a heat exchanger. Thus, the heating method of the bath water can be switched according to actual needs.

[0022] In one embodiment, the zero-cold-water module is further provided with a third switching device, which has a seventh switching port and an eighth switching port;

[0023] The seventh switching port is connected to the outlet of the thermal storage water outlet pipe, and the eighth switching port is connected to the outlet of the water supply pipe.

[0024] The third switching device has a fourth state; when the third switching device is in the fourth state, the seventh switching port is connected to the eighth switching port. Thus, by setting up the third switching device, control is achieved on whether the water supply pipe is connected to the independent circulation loop formed between the heat storage unit and the user end for heating bathroom water.

[0025] In one embodiment, the first switching device is further provided with a third switching port connected to the inlet of the heat storage water inlet pipe, and the third switching device is further provided with a ninth switching port connected to the bathroom inlet end of the heat exchange device.

[0026] The first switching device has a fifth state, the second switching device has a sixth state, and the third switching device has a seventh state. When the first switching device is in the fifth state, the second switching device is in the sixth state, and the third switching device is in the seventh state, the third switching port is connected to the second switching port, the fourth switching port is connected to the sixth switching port, and the seventh switching port is connected to the ninth switching port. In this way, different circulation loops can be selectively switched to achieve the process of heat storage by the thermal storage unit or the process of the thermal storage unit heating bathroom water.

[0027] In one embodiment, the third switching device further has an eighth state;

[0028] The third switching device is in the eighth state, and the eighth switching port is connected to the ninth switching port. This allows control over whether the water supply pipe is connected to the bathroom inlet of the heat exchanger.

[0029] In one embodiment, the zero-cold-water module further includes a first detection structure;

[0030] The first detection structure is located in the thermal storage unit and is used to detect the thermal storage temperature within the thermal storage unit. Thus, the first detection structure can be used to determine whether the thermal storage temperature within the thermal storage unit meets the usage requirements.

[0031] In one embodiment, the zero-cold-water module further includes a second detection structure;

[0032] The second detection structure is installed on the thermal storage outlet pipe and is used to detect the temperature of the fluid inside the thermal storage outlet pipe. Thus, the second detection structure can be used to determine whether the temperature of the fluid inside the thermal storage outlet pipe meets the usage requirements.

[0033] In one embodiment, the zero-cold-water module further includes a third detection structure;

[0034] The third detection structure is installed on the bathroom water outlet pipe and is used to detect the temperature of the fluid inside the bathroom water outlet pipe. Thus, the third detection structure can be used to determine whether the temperature of the fluid inside the bathroom water outlet pipe meets the usage requirements.

[0035] In one embodiment, the zero-cold-water module further includes a buffer mixing tank;

[0036] The buffer mixing tank is connected in series with the bathroom outlet pipe to mix the fluid flowing into the bathroom outlet pipe. This reduces temperature fluctuations in the fluid flowing into the bathroom outlet pipe.

[0037] According to another aspect of this application, an embodiment of this application provides a gas appliance including the aforementioned zero-cold-water module. Thus, since the zero-cold-water module is an external structure, it is easy to install on the gas appliance, solving the problems of frequent appliance starts and the need for regular cleaning of the hot water storage tank, thereby improving the service life of the gas appliance and the quality of the bathroom water.

[0038] Additional aspects and advantages of embodiments of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a zero-cold-water module in one embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat storage unit in one embodiment of this application.

[0041] Brief explanation of component symbols:

[0042] Zero cold water module 10, module outlet pipe 11, module inlet pipe 12;

[0043] Thermal storage unit 100, thermal storage inlet pipe 101, thermal storage outlet pipe 102, water supply pipe 103, bypass pipe 104, safety pressure relief valve 105, outer shell 110, heat exchanger 120, water inlet end 121, water outlet end 122, phase change material 130, thermal insulation material 140;

[0044] Bathroom water outlet pipe 210, bathroom water return pipe 220;

[0045] First switching device 300, first switching port 310, second switching port 320, third switching port 330;

[0046] Drive structure 400;

[0047] Controller 500;

[0048] Second switching device 600, fourth switching port 610, fifth switching port 620, and sixth switching port 630;

[0049] Third switching device 700, seventh switching port 710, eighth switching port 720, and ninth switching port 730;

[0050] First detection structure 810, second detection structure 820, third detection structure 830, fourth detection structure 840;

[0051] Buffer mixing tank 900;

[0052] Heat exchange device 20, sanitary ware outlet end 21, sanitary ware inlet end 22, first heating water inlet end 23, first heating water outlet end 24;

[0053] Main heat exchanger 30, second heating water inlet 31, second heating water outlet 32;

[0054] Burner 40, gas inlet pipe 41, gas proportional valve 42;

[0055] Fan 50;

[0056] Heating water pump 60;

[0057] Water flow sensor 70;

[0058] Heating water flow direction switching device 80;

[0059] Heating inlet pipe 91, heating outlet pipe 92. Detailed Implementation

[0060] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific implementation methods of the embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of this application. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of this application and are not intended to limit this application. The embodiments of this application can be implemented in many ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of the invention. Therefore, the embodiments of this application are not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0061] It is understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in this application may be used to describe various technical terms, but should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. However, unless otherwise stated, these technical terms are not limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one technical term from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this application, the first switching device, the second switching device, and the third switching device are different switching devices, and the first detection structure, the second detection structure, and the third detection structure are different detection structures. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "a plurality of" or "several" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0062] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0063] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the horizontal height of the first feature is higher than the horizontal height of the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the horizontal height of the first feature is lower than the horizontal height of the second feature.

[0064] It should be noted that when a component is described as "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is described as "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intervening component.

[0065] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used in this application and in its specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application.

[0066] A gas-fired heating and hot water boiler is a type of hot water equipment used for indoor heating and providing domestic hot water. Most gas-fired heating and hot water boilers have both heating and bathroom hot water functions. Some, or traditional, gas-fired heating and hot water boilers are equipped with a one-way four-way valve at the water outlet to switch between different circulation loops. For example, a circulation pump can recirculate residual cold water in the hot water pipes back into the boiler for reheating, ensuring hot water flows immediately when the tap is turned on, achieving a zero-cold-water effect. This solves problems such as needing to flush out large amounts of cold water before getting hot water in the bathroom, and the water becoming cold or overheated when restarting after being turned off mid-use.

[0067] The inventors of this application have noted that, during the aforementioned process, the hot water in the bathroom hot water pipes and the circulating return water pipes dissipates heat into the surrounding walls or space within a short period, causing the hot water temperature in the pipes to drop rapidly. This necessitates recirculation and reheating to maintain the water temperature in the bathroom pipes, leading to frequent starts of the gas-fired heating water boiler for recirculation and heating. This reduces the lifespan of related components in the gas-fired heating water boiler and increases its gas consumption. Furthermore, the noise generated by frequent starts also negatively impacts the user experience.

[0068] To address the issue of frequent starts and stops of gas-fired heating and hot water boilers, some boilers are equipped with external water tanks. These tanks store a certain volume of hot water, allowing residual cold water from the hot water pipes to be recirculated and reheated without passing through the boiler. However, over time, bacteria, microorganisms, and sediment can accumulate in the tanks, affecting the quality of the bathroom water and potentially harming the user's health. Regular cleaning and maintenance are required, making them inconvenient to use.

[0069] Based on the above considerations, in order to solve the problems of frequent start-up of gas appliances and poor water quality in bathrooms, the inventors conducted in-depth research and designed an external zero-cold-water module for use in gas appliances.

[0070] It should be noted that the zero-cold-water module disclosed in this application can be used in gas-fired heating and hot water boilers, thereby achieving the zero-cold-water function while extending the service life of the gas-fired boiler. The following explanation uses the application of the zero-cold-water module in a gas-fired heating and hot water boiler as an example.

[0071] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a zero-cold-water module 10 is shown in one embodiment of this application; for ease of explanation, only the parts related to the embodiment of this application are shown.

[0072] like Figure 1 As shown, this application embodiment provides a zero-cold-water module 10 for use in a gas-fired heating hot water boiler. The gas-fired heating hot water boiler includes a heat exchange device 20. The zero-cold-water module 10 includes a heat storage unit 100, a bathroom outlet pipe 210, a bathroom return pipe 220, a first switching device 300, a drive structure 400, and a controller 500. The heat storage unit 100 is connected to the heat exchange device 20 so that fluid, after being heated within the heat exchange device 20, flows to the heat storage unit 100, thereby storing heat in the heat storage unit 100. The heat storage unit 100 is provided with a heat storage inlet pipe 101 and a heat storage outlet pipe 102 connected to the heat exchange device 20. The heat storage outlet pipe 102 is connected to a water supply pipe 103. The bathroom return pipe 220 is connected to the heat storage inlet pipe 101. The first switching device 300 is configured to connect or disconnect the inlet of the bathroom outlet pipe 210 from the outlet of the heat storage outlet pipe 102. The drive structure 400 is located on the fluid path through which the fluid flows into or out of the heat storage unit 100, and is used to drive the fluid to pass through the heat storage unit 100 so as to exchange heat with the heat storage unit 100. The controller 500 is used to control the first switching device 300 and the drive structure 400.

[0073] Therefore, since the heat storage unit 100 with heat storage function can form an independent circulation loop with the user end to heat the bathroom water, frequent start-ups of the gas appliances are avoided, thus improving the service life of the gas appliances. At the same time, since this independent circulation loop is connected to the water supply pipe 103, the water in the circulation loop is running water, reducing the frequency of cleaning the heat storage unit 100 and improving the quality of the bathroom water.

[0074] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of a heat storage unit 100 in one embodiment of this application is shown; for ease of explanation, only the parts related to the embodiment of this application are shown.

[0075] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 2 and combined Figure 1The thermal storage unit 100 includes a shell 110, a heat exchanger 120, and a phase change material 130. The heat exchanger 120 and the phase change material 130 are disposed inside the shell 110, with the phase change material 130 filling the space between the heat exchanger 120 and the shell 110. The heat exchanger 120 has an inlet end 121 connected to the thermal storage inlet pipe 101 and an outlet end 122 connected to the thermal storage outlet pipe 102. That is, the inlet end 121 of the heat exchanger 120 is connected to the thermal storage inlet pipe 101, and the outlet end 122 of the heat exchanger 120 is connected to the thermal storage outlet pipe 102. Because the thermal storage capacity of the phase change thermal storage material is higher than that of water, it has a smaller volume than hot water storage methods, and it does not directly heat and store hot water, thus avoiding scale formation due to high-temperature storage. Meanwhile, the heat exchanger 120 is used to exchange heat with the live water, eliminating the need for an inner tank in the heat storage unit 100. This avoids the problems of difficult cleaning and stagnant water within the inner tank, which are present in related technologies. Specifically, in some embodiments, the heat exchanger 120 can be a finned coil heat exchanger 120 to further extend the fluid flow time within the heat storage unit 100, achieving a thorough heat exchange process. In other embodiments, the outer shell 110 is wrapped with insulation material 140 to further improve the insulation effect of the heat storage unit 100. Furthermore, in still other embodiments, a pressure relief branch can be provided at the outlet end 122 of the heat storage outlet pipe 102 near the heat exchanger 120, and a safety pressure relief valve 105 can be installed on this branch to improve the safety performance of the heat storage unit 100.

[0076] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 1 The first switching device 300 is provided with a first switching port 310 and a second switching port 320. The first switching port 310 is connected to the outlet of the thermal storage water outlet pipe 102, and the second switching port 320 is connected to the inlet of the bathroom water outlet pipe 210. The first switching device 300 has a first state; in the first state, the first switching port 310 and the second switching port 320 are connected. That is, when the first switching port 310 and the second switching port 320 are connected, the outlet of the thermal storage water outlet pipe 102 is connected to the inlet of the bathroom water outlet pipe 210, and an independent circulation loop for heating bathroom water can be formed between the thermal storage unit 100 and the user end. Thus, by providing the first switching device 300 with switching ports, it is possible to select whether to connect the thermal storage water outlet pipe 102 and the bathroom water outlet pipe 210 to operate an independent circulation loop that can achieve zero cold water function.

[0077] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 1 A bypass pipe 104 is provided on the thermal storage outlet pipe 102. The first switching port 310 is connected to the outlet of the thermal storage outlet pipe 102 through the bypass pipe 104. In this way, by setting the bypass pipe 104, the first switching port 310 can be connected to the outlet of the thermal storage outlet pipe 102, which is simple in structure.

[0078] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 1 The zero-cold-water module 10 also includes a second switching device 600 located between the second switching port 320 and the inlet of the bathroom outlet pipe 210. The second switching device 600 has a fourth switching port 610, a fifth switching port 620, and a sixth switching port 630. The fourth switching port 610 is connected to the second switching port 320, the fifth switching port 620 is connected to the inlet of the bathroom outlet pipe 210, and the sixth switching port 630 is connected to the bathroom outlet end 21 of the heat exchange device 20. The second switching device 600 has a second state and a third state. In the second state, the fourth switching port 610 is connected to the fifth switching port 620; in the third state, the fifth switching port 620 is connected to the sixth switching port 630. In other words, by providing a second switching device 600 with three switching ports, the bathroom water can be heated not only by the heat storage unit 100 but also by the heat exchange device 20. When the bathroom water is heated by the heat storage unit 100, the first switching device 300 is in the first state, the second switching device 600 is in the second state, the first switching port 310 is connected to the second switching port 320, the fourth switching port 610 is connected to the fifth switching port 620, and the inlet of the bathroom outlet pipe 210. The bathroom water circulates and is heated sequentially through the bathroom outlet pipe 210, the bathroom return pipe 220, the heat storage inlet pipe 101, the heat exchanger 120, the heat storage outlet pipe 102, the bypass pipe 104, the first switching device 300, the second switching device 600, and the bathroom outlet pipe 210, achieving a zero-cold-water function. When the bathroom water is heated by the heat exchange device 20, the second switching device 600 is in the third state, the fifth switching port 620 is connected to the sixth switching port 630, and the bathroom water heated in the heat exchange device 20 flows out from the bathroom outlet end 21 of the heat exchange device 20 and flows directly into the bathroom outlet pipe 210. In this way, the heating method of the bathroom water can be switched according to the actual situation.

[0079] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 1 The zero-cold-water module 10 also includes a third switching device 700, which has a seventh switching port 710 and an eighth switching port 720. The seventh switching port 710 is connected to the outlet of the thermal storage outlet pipe 102, and the eighth switching port 720 is connected to the outlet of the water supply pipe 103. The third switching device 700 has a fourth state; in this fourth state, the seventh switching port 710 and the eighth switching port 720 are connected. Thus, by setting the third switching device 700, control is achieved over whether the water supply pipe 103 is connected to the independent circulation loop formed between the thermal storage unit 100 and the user end for heating bathroom water.

[0080] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 1 The first switching device 300 is further provided with a third switching port 330 connected to the inlet of the heat storage water inlet pipe 101, and the third switching device 700 is further provided with a ninth switching port 730 connected to the bathroom inlet end 22 of the heat exchange device 20. The first switching device 300 also has a fifth state, the second switching device 600 has a sixth state, and the third switching device 700 has a seventh state; when the first switching device 300 is in the fifth state, the second switching device 600 is in the sixth state, and the third switching device 700 is in the seventh state, the third switching port 330 is connected to the second switching port 320, the fourth switching port 610 is connected to the sixth switching port 630, and the seventh switching port 710 is connected to the ninth switching port 730. In other words, both the first switching device 300 and the third switching device 700 have three switching ports. Thus, by setting up a first switching device 300, a second switching device 600, and a third switching device 700, each with three switching ports, different circulation loops can be selectively formed to realize the heat storage of the heat storage unit 100 or the process of the heat storage unit 100 heating bathroom water. When the heat storage unit 100 is storing heat, the first switching device 300 is in the sixth state, the second switching device 600 and the third switching device 700 are in the seventh state, the third switching port 330 is connected to the second switching port 320, and the seventh switching port 710 is connected to the ninth switching port 730. The water in the water supply pipe 103 circulates sequentially through the heat storage inlet pipe 101, the heat exchanger 120, the heat storage outlet pipe 102, the third switching device 700, the heat exchanger 20, the second switching device 600, the first switching device 300, and the heat storage inlet pipe 101. The water heated by the heat exchanger 20 exchanges heat with the heat exchanger 120 in the heat storage unit 100, and the heat storage unit 100 stores heat. When the heat storage unit 100 heats the bathroom water, the third switching device 700 is in the fourth state, the seventh switching port 710 is connected to the eighth switching port 720, and the water supply pipe 103 is connected to the inlet of the bypass pipe 104 of the heat storage outlet pipe 102 to realize the water storage unit's live water function. The states and circuit conditions of the other switching devices can be referred to the content of the aforementioned embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0081] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 1 The third switching device 700 also has an eighth state. In the eighth state, the eighth switching port 720 is connected to the ninth switching port 730. That is, water flows through the water supply pipe 103 into the heat exchanger 20, then flows out of the heat exchanger 20 into the bathroom outlet pipe 210, where the heat exchanger 20 heats the water. Thus, it is possible to control whether the water supply pipe 103 is connected to the bathroom inlet end 22 of the heat exchanger 20.

[0082] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 1 The zero-cold-water module 10 also includes a first detection structure 810. The first detection structure 810 is disposed in the heat storage unit 100 and is used to detect the heat storage temperature within the heat storage unit 100. Thus, the first detection structure 810 can determine whether the heat storage temperature within the heat storage unit 100 meets the usage requirements, and thereby decide whether to proceed with the heat storage process in the heat storage unit 100. For specific embodiments, please refer to... Figure 1 The first detection structure 810 is located on the side away from the thermal storage inlet pipe 101 and the thermal storage outlet pipe 102 to improve the accuracy of thermal storage temperature measurement. For further details in other embodiments, please refer to... Figure 1 The zero-cold-water module 10 also includes a fourth detection structure 840 disposed in the thermal storage unit 100 for detecting the thermal storage temperature within the thermal storage unit 100. Optionally, the fourth detection structure 840 can be disposed on one side near the thermal storage inlet pipe 101 and the thermal storage outlet pipe 102. The detection of the thermal storage temperature within the thermal storage unit 100 is achieved jointly by the first detection structure 810 and the fourth detection structure 840, improving the accuracy of the detection.

[0083] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 1 The zero-cold-water module 10 also includes a second detection structure 820, which is disposed on the heat storage outlet pipe 102 and is used to detect the temperature of the fluid inside the heat storage outlet pipe 102. In this way, the second detection structure 820 can determine whether the temperature of the fluid inside the heat storage outlet pipe 102 meets the usage requirements, and thus decide whether to carry out the heat storage process of the heat storage unit 100.

[0084] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 1 The zero-cold-water module 10 also includes a third detection structure 830. The third detection structure 830 is located on the bathroom water outlet pipe 210 and is used to detect the temperature of the fluid inside the bathroom water outlet pipe 210. Thus, the third detection structure 830 can determine whether the temperature of the fluid inside the bathroom water outlet pipe 210 meets the usage requirements, and based on this, decide whether to use the heat storage unit 100 to heat the bathroom water.

[0085] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 1 The drive structure 400 is disposed on the heat storage outlet pipe 102. Of course, in some other embodiments, the drive structure 400 may also be disposed on the heat storage inlet pipe 101. Figure 1 The illustration shows the drive structure 400 installed on the thermal storage outlet pipe 102. The specific configuration can be adjusted according to usage requirements, and this embodiment does not impose any specific limitations. Optionally, the drive structure 400 can be configured as a water pump.

[0086] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 1 The zero-cold-water module 10 also includes a buffer mixing tank 900. The buffer mixing tank 900 is connected in series with the bathroom outlet pipe 210 to mix the fluid flowing into the bathroom outlet pipe 210. In this way, the temperature fluctuation of the fluid flowing into the bathroom outlet pipe 210 can be reduced.

[0087] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 1 The controller 500 can also control the first switching device 300, the second switching device 600 and the third switching device 700 according to the first detection structure 810, the second detection structure 820, the third detection structure 830 and the fourth detection structure 840 to obtain different loops to meet the usage requirements.

[0088] Based on the same inventive concept, this application also provides a gas appliance including the aforementioned zero-cold-water module 10. Thus, since the zero-cold-water module 10 is an external structure, it is easy to install on the gas appliance, solving the problems of frequent appliance starts and the need for regular cleaning of the hot water storage tank, thereby improving the service life of the gas appliance and the quality of the bathroom water. The following description uses a gas-fired heating and hot water boiler as an example.

[0089] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 1 The appliance includes a heat exchange device 20, a main heat exchanger 30, a burner 40, a fan 50, a heating water pump 60, a water flow sensor 70, and a heating water flow direction switching device 80. The heat exchange device 20 is a plate heat exchanger 120, with a bathroom outlet end 21 and a bathroom inlet end 22 connected to each other, and a first heating water inlet end 23 and a first heating water outlet end 24 connected to each other. The main heat exchanger 30 has a second heating water inlet end 31 and a second heating water outlet end 32 connected to each other. The burner 40 is used to heat the hot water in the main heat exchanger 30, and the burner 40 is connected to a gas inlet pipe 41, on which a gas proportional valve 42 is installed. The fan 50 is used to exhaust the exhaust gas generated by the burner 40 to the outside. The heating water pump 60 is connected in series on the heating water inlet pipe 91. A water flow sensor 70 is installed on the pipe at the bathroom inlet 22 of the heat exchanger 20 to detect whether fluid is flowing into the heat exchanger 20. A heating water flow switching device 80 is installed on the heating water outlet pipe 92 and connected to the first heating water inlet 23 of the heat exchanger 20. The first heating water outlet 24 of the heat exchanger 20 is connected to the bypass of the heating water inlet pipe 91.

[0090] In this embodiment, the zero-cold-water module 10 is connected to the bathroom inlet 22 of the heat exchange device 20 via the module outlet pipe 11, and to the bathroom outlet 21 of the heat exchange device 20 via the module inlet pipe 12. The bathroom outlet pipe 210 of the zero-cold-water module 10 is directly connected to the water terminal and is connected to the bathroom return pipe 220 to form a loop.

[0091] Therefore, the gas-fired heating and hot water boiler in this embodiment of the application has three working modes: bathroom mode, heat storage mode, and zero cold water mode.

[0092] The following description, with reference to the implementation methods of some of the foregoing embodiments, further illustrates the three working modes provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0093] Please refer to Figure 1 When in bathroom mode, the bathroom water is heated through the heat exchanger 20. Bathroom mode is the initial default mode. At this time, the controller 500 in the zero cold water module 10 controls the first switching device 300 to be in the first state, with the first switching port 310 connected to the second switching port 320; controls the second switching device 600 to be in the third state, with the fifth switching port 620 connected to the sixth switching port 630; controls the third switching device 700 to be in the eighth state, with the eighth switching port 720 connected to the ninth switching port 730; the drive structure 400 is turned off; and the first detection structure 810, the second detection structure 820, the third detection structure 830, and the fourth detection structure 840 do not participate in monitoring. The connection status of each pipeline can be referred to the content of the aforementioned embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0094] When a user turns on the water tap, bathroom water flows from the water supply pipe 103 into the bathroom inlet 22 of the heat exchanger 20. The water flow sensor 70 detects the water flow, and the heating water flow switching device 80 cuts off the heating function and switches to bathroom function. The heating water inlet pipe, main heat exchanger 30, heating water outlet pipe, and heat exchanger 20 form a circulation loop. When the gas proportional valve 42 opens, gas enters the burner 40 for combustion. The high-temperature flue gas from combustion passes through the main heat exchanger 30, which absorbs the heat and transfers it to the heating water on its water side. The heat-absorbed flue gas is then discharged outside the gas-fired heating water boiler by the fan 50. Simultaneously, driven by the heating water pump 60, heating water enters the second heating water inlet 31 of the main heat exchanger 30 from the heating water inlet pipe 91 and flows out from the second heating water outlet 32 ​​of the main heat exchanger 30. Heating water absorbs heat from the combustion of gas in the main heat exchanger 30, raising its temperature, and then enters the heat exchange device 20, transferring heat to the bathroom water within the heat exchange device 20, continuously circulating the above process. The bathroom water absorbs heat and raises its temperature in the heat exchange device 20 until it reaches the target temperature, then flows out from the bathroom outlet 21 of the heat exchange device 20, passing sequentially through the sixth switching port 630 and the fifth switching port 620, flowing into the bathroom outlet pipe 210 and finally into the water terminal. A buffer mixing tank 900 installed on the bathroom outlet pipe 210 mixes the incoming bathroom water with the water in the buffer mixing tank 900, reducing temperature fluctuations.

[0095] Please continue to refer to Figure 1 When in thermal storage mode, the controller 500 within the zero-cold-water module 10 controls the first switching device 300 to the fifth state, the second switching device 600 to the sixth state, and the third switching device 700 to the seventh state. The third switching port 330 is connected to the second switching port 320, the fourth switching port 610 is connected to the sixth switching port 630, and the seventh switching port 710 is connected to the ninth switching port 730. The drive structure 400 is activated, and the first detection structure 810, the second detection structure 820, the third detection structure 830, and the fourth detection structure 840 all participate in monitoring. The connection status of each pipeline can be referred to the content of the aforementioned embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0096] When the temperature signals from the first detection structure 810 and the fourth detection structure 840 indicate that the current heat storage temperature of the heat storage unit 100 is lower than the set temperature, it indicates that the heat storage unit 100 has insufficient heat reserves. The controller 500 will then control the first switching device 300, the second switching device 600, and the third switching device 700 to the aforementioned state. Driven by the drive structure 400, water in the pipeline will flow into the bathroom inlet 22 of the heat exchange device 20. The water flow sensor 70 will detect the water flow, and the entire device will activate the bathroom mode. The heating process of the heating water here can be referred to the aforementioned content and will not be repeated here. Simultaneously, driven by the drive structure 400, water in the pipeline enters the bathroom inlet 22 of the heat exchange device 20, absorbs heat from the heating water, and is heated to a higher temperature. It then flows out from the bathroom outlet 21 of the heat exchange device 20, sequentially passing through the sixth switching port 630, the fourth switching port 610, the second switching port 320, and the third switching port 330. It then enters the heat exchanger 120 within the heat storage unit 100 through the heat storage inlet pipe 101. The heat exchanger 120 transfers heat to the phase change material 130, causing the phase change material 130 to absorb and store the heat. The water then flows out from the heat exchanger 120 to the drive structure 400 on the heat storage outlet pipe 102, and the process repeats. When the second detection structure 820 detects that the outlet water temperature has reached the set temperature, heat storage ends, and the entire device returns to its initial default mode, i.e., bathroom mode.

[0097] Please continue to refer to Figure 1 When in zero-cold-water mode, the controller 500 within the zero-cold-water module 10 controls the third switching device 700 to be in the fourth state, connecting the seventh switching port 710 and the eighth switching port 720. It also controls the second switching device 600 to be in the second state, connecting the fourth switching port 610 and the fifth switching port 620. The first switching device 300 is in the first state, connecting the first switching port 310 and the second switching port 320. Furthermore, it controls the drive structure 400 to be in the start state, with the third detection structure 830 participating in monitoring. The connection status of each pipeline can be referred to in the aforementioned embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0098] When the third detection structure 830 reports that the temperature of the water in the current bathroom outlet pipe 210 is lower than the set temperature, the controller 500 will control the first switching device 300, the second switching device 600, and the third switching device 700 to the aforementioned state, and activate the drive structure 400. Driven by the drive structure 400, the water in the pipeline will sequentially enter the bathroom outlet pipe 210 through the bypass pipe 104, the first switching port 310, the second switching port 320, the fourth switching port 610, and the fifth switching port 620. The buffer mixing tank 900 installed on the bathroom outlet pipe 210 can mix the incoming bathroom water with the water in the buffer mixing tank 900, reducing temperature fluctuations. Water in the pipeline flows sequentially from the bathroom outlet pipe 210 and the bathroom return pipe 220 into the heat storage inlet pipe 101 of the heat storage unit 100, and then into the heat exchanger 120 inside the heat storage unit 100. The heat exchanger 120 absorbs heat from the phase change material 130, raising its temperature, and then flows back into the drive structure 400, repeating the above steps. When the third detection structure 830 detects that the temperature has reached the set temperature, the zero-cold-water mode is turned off, and the entire device returns to the initial default mode, i.e., the bathroom mode.

[0099] In summary, the zero-cold-water module 10 provided in this application not only solves the problem of frequent start-up of gas-fired heating and hot water boilers, but also addresses the inconvenience caused by the impact of external hot water storage tank zero-cold-water systems on bathroom water quality and the need for regular cleaning and maintenance. Furthermore, the zero-cold-water module 10 in this application utilizes phase-change thermal storage, ensuring that the bathroom water is running water, and can be used in gas-fired heating and hot water boilers that do not have zero-cold-water functionality in related technologies, eliminating the need to replace the gas-fired heating and hot water boiler.

[0100] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0101] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A zero-cold-water module (10) for use in a gas appliance, said gas appliance including a heat exchange device (20), characterized in that, The zero-cold-water module (10) includes: A heat storage unit (100) is connected to the heat exchange device (20) so that the fluid is heated after flowing through the heat exchange device (20) and then flows to the heat storage unit (100), thereby storing heat in the heat storage unit (100); the heat storage unit (100) is provided with a heat storage inlet pipe (101) and a heat storage outlet pipe (102) connected to the heat exchange device (20), and the heat storage outlet pipe (102) is connected to a water supply pipe (103); Bathroom water outlet pipe (210) and bathroom water return pipe (220), wherein the bathroom water return pipe (220) is connected to the heat storage water inlet pipe (101); The first switching device (300) is configured to connect or disconnect the inlet of the bathroom water outlet pipe (210) from the outlet of the thermal storage water outlet pipe (102); the first switching device (300) is provided with a first switching port (310) connected to the outlet of the thermal storage water outlet pipe (102), a second switching port (320) connected to the inlet of the bathroom water outlet pipe (210) and a third switching port (330) connected to the inlet of the thermal storage water inlet pipe (101); The second switching device (600) is located between the second switching port (320) and the inlet of the bathroom outlet pipe (210). The second switching device (600) is provided with a fourth switching port (610) connected to the second switching port (320), a fifth switching port (620) connected to the inlet of the bathroom outlet pipe (210), and a sixth switching port (630) connected to the bathroom outlet end (21) of the heat exchange device (20). The third switching device (700) is provided with a seventh switching port (710) connected to the outlet of the heat storage water outlet pipe (102), an eighth switching port (720) connected to the outlet of the water supply pipe (103), and a ninth switching port (730) connected to the bathroom inlet end (22) of the heat exchange device (20). A driving structure (400) is located on the fluid path through which the fluid flows into or out of the heat storage unit (100), for driving the fluid to pass through the heat storage unit (100) to exchange heat with the heat storage unit (100); and A controller (500) is used to control the first switching device (300), the second switching device (600), the third switching device (700), and the drive structure (400); The first switching device (300) has a first state; when the first switching device (300) is in the first state, the first switching port (310) is connected to the second switching port (320); The second switching device (600) has a second state and a third state; when the second switching device (600) is in the second state, the fourth switching port (610) is connected to the fifth switching port (620); when the second switching device (600) is in the third state, the fifth switching port (620) is connected to the sixth switching port (630). The third switching device (700) has a fourth state; when the third switching device (700) is in the fourth state, the seventh switching port (710) is connected to the eighth switching port (720); The first switching device (300) also has a fifth state, the second switching device (600) also has a sixth state, and the third switching device (700) also has a seventh state; the first switching device (300) is in the fifth state, the second switching device (600) is in the sixth state, and the third switching device (700) is in the seventh state, the third switching port (330) is connected to the second switching port (320), the fourth switching port (610) is connected to the sixth switching port (630), and the seventh switching port (710) is connected to the ninth switching port (730); The third switching device (700) also has an eighth state; the third switching device (700) is in the eighth state, and the eighth switching port (720) is connected to the ninth switching port (730).

2. The zero-cold-water module (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat storage unit (100) includes a shell (110), a heat exchanger (120), and a phase change material (130). The heat exchanger (120) and the phase change material (130) are disposed inside the shell (110), and the phase change material (130) is filled between the heat exchanger (120) and the shell (110). The heat exchanger (120) has an inlet end (121) connected to the heat storage inlet pipe (101) and an outlet end (122) connected to the heat storage outlet pipe (102); The inlet end (121) of the heat exchanger (120) is connected to the heat storage inlet pipe (101), and the outlet end (122) of the heat exchanger (120) is connected to the heat storage outlet pipe (102).

3. The zero-cold-water module (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The zero-cold-water module (10) further includes a first detection structure (810), a second detection structure (820), and a third detection structure (830); The first detection structure (810) is disposed in the heat storage unit (100) and is used to detect the heat storage temperature inside the heat storage unit (100); The second detection structure (820) is disposed on the heat storage outlet pipe (102) and is used to detect the temperature of the fluid in the heat storage outlet pipe (102); The third detection structure (830) is located on the bathroom water outlet pipe (210) and is used to detect the temperature of the fluid inside the bathroom water outlet pipe (210).

4. The zero-cold-water module (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The zero-cold-water module (10) also includes a buffer mixing tank (900); The buffer mixing tank (900) is connected in series on the bathroom outlet pipe (210) to mix the fluid flowing into the bathroom outlet pipe (210).

5. A gas appliance, characterized in that, Includes the zero-cold-water module (10) as described in any one of claims 1-4.

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