Water heater

Abstract

The application discloses a water heater, comprising: a shell, a water inlet main pipe and a water outlet main pipe are arranged on the shell; a burner, the burner is arranged in the shell and is used for burning gas; a heat exchanger, the heat exchanger is arranged above the burner and is used for water flow heat exchange; a water inlet device, the water inlet device comprises: a valve body and a valve assembly, the valve body is provided with a first water passage, a second water passage and a bypass water outlet; the valve assembly comprises a valve rod, a valve sleeve and a blocking plate; wherein, the water inlet device is arranged in the shell, the first water passage is communicated with the water inlet main pipe, the second water passage is connected with a water inlet end of the heat exchanger, and a hot water end of the heat exchanger and the bypass water outlet are respectively communicated with the water outlet main pipe. The water heater can reduce the fluctuation range of the water outlet temperature of the gas water heater, and improve the user experience.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Water heaters are currently common household appliances. They are categorized into gas water heaters and electric water heaters, with gas water heaters being widely used due to their convenience. A typical gas water heater usually consists of a burner, a combustion chamber, and a heat exchanger. The burner burns gas in the combustion chamber to heat the water flowing through the heat exchanger.

[0003] In actual use, when a gas water heater is turned off for a short time and then used again, the burner reheats the hot water in the heat exchanger, causing the water temperature to rise and thus affecting the user experience.

[0004] Therefore, the technical problem to be solved by this invention is how to design a technology to reduce water temperature fluctuations during water use in order to improve the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a water heater that reduces the fluctuation range of the outlet water temperature of a gas water heater, thereby improving the user experience.

[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned technical objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] In one aspect, the present invention provides a water heater comprising:

[0008] The outer casing is provided with an inlet main pipe and an outlet main pipe;

[0009] A burner, which is disposed in the housing and is used to burn fuel gas;

[0010] A heat exchanger, which is arranged above the burner and is used for heat exchange of water flow;

[0011] A water inlet device includes a valve body and a valve assembly. The valve body has a first water inlet, a second water inlet, and a bypass outlet. The valve assembly includes a valve stem, a valve sleeve, and a baffle plate. The valve sleeve and the baffle plate are sequentially fixed on the valve stem, with the baffle plate positioned near one end of the valve stem. The valve stem is rotatably mounted on the valve body and can move relative to the valve body during rotation. The valve sleeve and the baffle plate are located within the valve body. The valve sleeve is positioned on one side of the bypass outlet and is used to adjust the opening of the bypass outlet. The baffle plate is positioned opposite the second water inlet and is used to adjust the opening of the second water inlet.

[0012] The water inlet device is disposed in the outer casing. The first water inlet is connected to the main water inlet pipe, the second water inlet is connected to the water inlet end of the heat exchanger, and the hot water end of the heat exchanger and the bypass water outlet are respectively connected to the main water outlet pipe.

[0013] In one embodiment of this application, the second water inlet is connected to the water inlet of the heat exchanger via an inlet branch pipe, the hot water end of the heat exchanger is connected to the main outlet via an outlet branch pipe, and the bypass outlet is connected to the main outlet via the bypass branch pipe.

[0014] In one embodiment of this application, the bypass branch pipe is arranged below the burner, the water inlet branch pipe is arranged on one side of the burner, and the water outlet branch pipe is arranged on the other side of the burner.

[0015] In one embodiment of this application, a fan is further provided in the housing, and both the fan and the water inlet device are arranged below the burner. The fan is close to one side wall of the housing, and the water inlet device is close to the other side wall of the housing.

[0016] In one embodiment of this application, the heat exchanger includes a enclosure and heat exchange tubes, the heat exchange tubes being arranged in a circuitous manner within the enclosure, and the heat exchange tubes being connected between the inlet branch pipe and the outlet branch pipe.

[0017] In one embodiment of this application, the valve stem has a first end and a second end. The first end of the valve stem is provided with a threaded portion, and the valve stem is threadedly connected to the valve body through the threaded portion. The second end of the valve stem is provided with the interceptor plate.

[0018] In one embodiment of this application, the valve body is provided with a bushing, the bushing is provided with a threaded hole, and the threaded portion is threadedly connected to the threaded hole.

[0019] In one embodiment of this application, the bushing includes a mounting portion and a limiting portion arranged sequentially. The mounting portion is embedded in the valve body and fixed to the inner surface of the valve body, and the valve stem is threaded onto the mounting portion. The limiting portion is disposed on the mounting portion and has a through hole for the valve stem to pass through. A preset distance is formed between the limiting portion and the inner surface of the valve body, and the valve sleeve is rotatably disposed within the preset distance.

[0020] In one embodiment of this application, a central hole is formed inside the valve sleeve, and a first connecting groove is provided on the side wall of the valve sleeve. The first connecting groove connects to the central hole and is used to selectively connect to the bypass outlet. The central hole is arranged opposite to the second water inlet, and the valve stem passes through the central hole.

[0021] In one embodiment of this application, the side wall of the valve sleeve is further provided with a second connecting groove, and the first water inlet is connected to the central hole through the second connecting groove; the first water inlet and the bypass outlet are staggered along the axial direction of the valve sleeve; the first connecting groove and the second connecting groove are distributed sequentially along the axial direction of the valve sleeve.

[0022] The water heater provided in this application, by additionally configuring a water inlet device within the water heater, allows for the adjustment of the water flow rate during use. This, in turn, controls the water flow rate at the bypass outlet. When the water is turned off after a set time and then used again, the amount of cold water entering the heat exchanger is reduced, while the amount of cold water flowing directly to the main outlet pipe is increased. This increases the mixing ratio of hot and cold water, thereby reducing the fluctuation range of the outlet water temperature and improving the user's showering experience. The water inlet device reduces the flow rate of cold water into the water heater's inlet and increases the flow rate of cold water mixing with the hot water at the water heater's hot end. This increases the minimum temperature of the water flowing out of the water heater's outlet and decreases the maximum temperature of the water flowing out of the water heater's outlet, thus enhancing the user's showering experience. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0024] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.

[0025] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a water heater provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of another water heater provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a water heater provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 4 A front view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 5 for Figure 4 The diagram shown is a partial exploded view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve.

[0030] Figure 6 for Figure 4An exploded view of the valve core assembly is shown.

[0031] Figure 7 for Figure 4 The figure shown is a three-dimensional longitudinal sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its first state.

[0032] Figure 8 for Figure 4 The diagram shows a longitudinal sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state.

[0033] Figure 9 for Figure 4 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state.

[0034] Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the second type of one-inlet, two-outlet valve provided in the embodiments of this application in the first state;

[0035] Figure 11 for Figure 10 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state.

[0036] Figure 12 A transverse sectional view of the third type of one-inlet, two-outlet valve provided in the embodiments of this application in the first state;

[0037] Figure 13 for Figure 10 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state.

[0038] Figure 14 A front view of yet another one-inlet, two-outlet valve provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 15 for Figure 14 The diagram shown is a partial exploded view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve.

[0040] Figure 16 for Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the valve sleeve is shown;

[0041] Figure 17 for Figure 15 The diagram shown illustrates the mounting rod in the second position;

[0042] Figure 18 for Figure 14 The right view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its first state is shown.

[0043] Figure 19 for Figure 14 The diagram shows a longitudinal sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its first state.

[0044] Figure 20 for Figure 14 The right view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state is shown.

[0045] Figure 21 for Figure 14 The diagram shows a longitudinal sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state.

[0046] Figure 22 for Figure 21 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the mounting plate.

[0047] Figure 23 A partial exploded view of another type of one-inlet, two-outlet valve provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0048] Figure 24 for Figure 23 The exploded view of the valve core assembly is shown.

[0049] Figure 25 for Figure 23 The right view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its first state is shown.

[0050] Figure 26 for Figure 25 Sectional view at AA;

[0051] Figure 27 for Figure 21 The right view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state is shown.

[0052] Figure 28 for Figure 21 The diagram shows a longitudinal sectional view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state.

[0053] Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a water heater provided for an embodiment of the application.

[0054] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0055] 1. Valve body; 11. Closed end; 12. First water inlet; 13. Second water inlet; 14. Bypass outlet; 15. First water pipe; 16. Second water pipe; 17. Bypass pipe; 18. Cover plate; 181. Mounting hole; 19. Cylinder;

[0056] 2. Valve core assembly;

[0057] 21. Valve stem;

[0058] 22. Valve sleeve; 221. Center hole; 222. Communicating groove; 223. First communicating groove; 224. Second communicating groove; 225. First end face; 226. Second end face; 227. Mounting groove; 2271. First part; 2272. Second part;

[0059] 23. Mounting rod;

[0060] 24. Interception plate;

[0061] 31. Mounting plate; 32. Water-retaining platform;

[0062] 4. Bushing; 41. Mounting part; 42. Limiting part;

[0063] 5. Driver;

[0064] 61. Memory; 62. Timer;

[0065] 7. Controller;

[0066] 8. Sealing ring;

[0067] 9. Valves; 91. One-inlet-one-outlet valve; 92. One-inlet-two-outlet valve;

[0068] 10. Heat exchanger; 101. Inlet; 102. Hot water end; 103. Outlet; 104. Inlet branch pipe; 105. Outlet branch pipe; 106. Bypass branch pipe; 107. Outlet main pipe; 108. Inlet main pipe.

[0069] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific embodiments of this application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of this application to those skilled in the art through reference to particular embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0070] In water heaters using this technology, when a user uses water, the water heater detects the water flow signal, first turning on the fan for pre-cleaning, expelling exhaust gases through the flue. After the air pressure switch detects and closes, the gas valve opens to ignite the water, which then flows out after heating. It takes approximately 3-5 seconds from the user turning on the water to the water heater igniting. From the time the user turns on the water to the time the constant-temperature hot water flows out, it generally takes 20-30 seconds.

[0071] However, when the water heater is used again after a short period of inactivity (i.e., when the user uses water twice in a short time), some water remains in the outlet of the water heater after the previous use. Therefore, the hotter water will flow out of the outlet first. Also, as mentioned above, the fan needs to perform pre-cleaning before ignition, and ignition and combustion take 3-5 seconds. Therefore, after the residual hot water flows out, the cooler water will flow out of the outlet. Once the water heater has completed ignition and combustion, water at the target temperature will flow out of the outlet.

[0072] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a water heater provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another water heater provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 and Figure 2The arrows in the diagram indicate the direction of liquid flow. (Reference) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The water heater may have an inlet 101, a hot water outlet 102, and an outlet 103.

[0073] For example, the inlet end 101 may have an inlet branch pipe 104, the hot water end 102 may have an outlet branch pipe 105, and the outlet end 103 may have an outlet main pipe 107. A bypass branch pipe 106 may be connected between the inlet branch pipe 104 and the outlet branch pipe 105. When the water heater is working, cold water can be delivered through the inlet main pipe 108. The output end of the inlet main pipe 108 may be connected to the inlet branch pipe 104 and the bypass branch pipe 106 respectively. This allows a portion of the cold water to enter the inlet end 101 of the water heater through the inlet branch pipe 104, and a portion of the cold water to mix with the hot water flowing out of the outlet branch pipe 105 through the bypass branch pipe 106. The mixed water can then flow to the user through the outlet main pipe 107.

[0074] However, in actual use, when a user uses water a second time, increasing the amount of cold water mixed with the hot water in the hot water outlet 102 can lower the temperature of the water flowing out of the water heater's outlet 103; conversely, reducing the amount of cold water flowing into the water heater can improve the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger, thereby increasing the temperature of the water flowing out of the water heater's outlet 103. This ensures that the water temperature flowing out of the water heater's outlet 103 during a second use approaches the target temperature, thus improving the user's showering experience.

[0075] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are some embodiments of this application, but not all embodiments. Example 1

[0076] like Figure 29 As shown, this application embodiment provides a water heater, which includes at least: a shell 20, a burner 30, and a heat exchanger 10. The shell is provided with an inlet main pipe 108 and an outlet main pipe 107. Water entering through the inlet main pipe 108 flows into the heat exchanger 10. The water flowing in the heat exchanger 10 is heated by the heat generated by the combustion gas of the burner 30. Finally, the hot water flowing out of the heat exchanger 10 is output from the outlet main pipe 107.

[0077] During use, when the water is turned off and restarted after a short period of time, in order to maintain a constant water temperature output from the main water outlet pipe 107, the water heater in this embodiment also includes a water inlet device. The water inlet device includes a valve housing 1 and a valve core assembly 2. The valve housing is provided with a water inlet pipe 11, a first water outlet pipe 12, and a second water outlet pipe 13. The valve core assembly is disposed on the valve housing and is used to adjust the opening degree of the first water outlet pipe and the second water outlet pipe.

[0078] The first water inlet 12 is connected to the main water inlet pipe, the first water outlet pipe is connected to the water inlet end of the heat exchanger through the water inlet branch pipe 104, the hot water end of the heat exchanger is connected to the main water outlet pipe through the water outlet branch pipe 105, and a bypass branch pipe 106 is provided on the second water outlet pipe, which is connected to the water outlet branch pipe.

[0079] Specifically, in actual use, the water heater heats the cold water flowing in through the heat exchanger. During use, users may briefly turn off the water and then use it again (i.e., reuse the water). In this case, the water temperature in the heat exchanger is high. If a large flow of cold water enters the heat exchanger, the burner will repeatedly heat the stored hot water after starting, resulting in the output of high-temperature hot water, which could potentially scald the user.

[0080] Therefore, when the water is turned off after a set time and then used again, the cold water flow distribution is adjusted through the water inlet device. Specifically, the water flow in the first outlet pipe 12 is reduced while the water flow in the second outlet pipe 13 is increased. At this time, at the main outlet pipe 107 of the water heater, the cold water delivered by the water inlet device through the bypass branch pipe 106 mixes with the hot water output from the heat exchanger 10. The mixed water temperature is closer to the set outlet temperature, thus improving the user's showering experience.

[0081] In order to rationally arrange the various components in the housing, the bypass branch pipe is located below the burner. In this way, the space below the burner can be fully utilized to arrange the bypass branch pipe, and the bypass branch pipe connects between the water inlet devices on both sides and the water outlet branch pipe, which can also effectively save the length of the bypass branch pipe.

[0082] In addition, the water inlet branch pipe is arranged on one side of the burner, and the water outlet branch pipe is arranged on the other side of the burner. The two connecting water pipes are distributed on both sides of the burner, which can make full use of the space on both sides of the burner to arrange the branch pipes, making the overall structure inside the shell more compact.

[0083] In some embodiments of this application, a fan 40 and a booster pump 50 are also provided in the housing. The fan and the water inlet device are both arranged below the burner. The fan is close to one side wall of the housing, and the water inlet device is close to the other side wall of the housing.

[0084] Specifically, in order to reasonably arrange the internal components in the housing, the newly added water inlet device is arranged side by side with the fan, and the water inlet device is further located above the booster pump 50. The main water inlet pipe 108 is connected to the water inlet pipe 11 of the water inlet device through the booster pump 50.

[0085] In another embodiment of this application, the heat exchanger includes a enclosure 1001 and a heat exchange tube 1002, the heat exchange tube being arranged in a circuitous manner within the enclosure, and the heat exchange tube being connected between the inlet branch pipe and the outlet branch pipe.

[0086] Specifically, the heat exchanger uses an independent enclosure to install the heat exchange tubes, thus eliminating the need to wrap the heat exchange tubes around the outside of the combustion chamber located on top of the burner. The enclosure 1001 is installed on top of the combustion chamber. The burner burns fuel gas inside the combustion chamber, and the high-temperature flue gas generated in the combustion chamber is output and enters the enclosure. The portion of the heat exchange tubes inserted into the outer enclosure is heated by the high-temperature flue gas, thereby heating the water flowing through the heat exchange tubes.

[0087] For the two connecting water pipes, since there is no pipe winding outside the combustion chamber above the burner, the inlet branch pipe 104 and the outlet branch pipe 105 can be fully utilized to arrange and install in the space on both sides of the burner.

[0088] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figures 1-3 The water inlet device provided in this application embodiment may include a memory 61, a timer 62, a valve 9, and a controller 7. The memory 61 may be installed in the water heater and can record the user's last water usage end time. The timer 62 may be installed in the water heater and can obtain the user's current water usage start time. At least some of the valves 9 may be located at the water inlet end 101 and can adjust the water flow rate into the water inlet end 101. At least some of the valves 9 may be located at the hot water end 102 and can adjust the water flow rate into the hot water end 102. The controller 7 can calculate the time interval between the user's current water usage start time and the user's last water usage end time, and can control the valves 9 when the time interval is less than a preset time period, so that liquid flows into the water inlet end 101 of the water heater at a smaller flow rate and into the hot water end 102 of the water heater at a larger flow rate.

[0089] Specifically, the memory 61 can acquire the time of the timer 62 when the user closes the valve 9 of the water outlet 103 (or shower head) of the water heater, and save this time as the user's last water usage end time. The memory 61 can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage device or a combination thereof, such as static random access memory 61 (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory 61 (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory 61 (EPROM), programmable read-only memory 61 (PROM), read-only memory 61 (ROM), magnetic storage 61, flash memory 61, magnetic disk or optical disk.

[0090] Additionally, timer 62 can acquire the current time when the user opens valve 9 (or showerhead valve 9) at the water outlet 103 of the water heater; this current time is the user's current start time for water use. Timer 62 can be a timer, which requires the user to calibrate the time periodically. Alternatively, timer 62 can send a request to a server, which will then return the acquired current time. The current time can also be obtained from the network.

[0091] Furthermore, when the user opens the valve 9 at the water outlet 103 of the water heater (or the valve 9 at the shower head), the controller 7 can obtain the user's last water usage end time sent by the memory 61 and the user's current water usage start time sent by the timer 62. The controller 7 can calculate the difference between the user's current water usage start time and the user's last water usage end time to obtain the time interval between two adjacent water usages. The controller 7 can compare the calculated time interval with a preset time interval. If the time interval is less than the preset time interval, the controller 7 can control the valve 9 to reduce the water flow into the inlet 101 and increase the water flow into the hot water outlet 102. If the time interval is greater than the preset time interval, the water flow into the inlet 101 and the water flow into the hot water outlet 102 will remain unchanged.

[0092] Optionally, the controller 7 can control the valve 9 when the water heater is in a stable operating state, the water heater is in a maximum heating state, and the temperature of the water outlet 103 of the water heater is less than the preset temperature value, so that the liquid flows into the water inlet 101 of the water heater at a smaller flow rate and into the hot water outlet 102 of the water heater at a smaller flow rate.

[0093] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 1 Alternatively, valve 9 can be configured in several ways, including the following:

[0094] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 1There can be multiple valves 9, each of which can be an inlet and outlet valve 91. Each inlet and outlet valve 91 can have a first inlet and an outlet. The inlet and outlet valve 91 can change the flow rate of the pipe connected to the opening by adjusting the opening of the outlet or the first inlet. Valves 9 can include two inlet and outlet valves 91. One inlet and outlet valve 91 can be installed on the bypass branch pipe 106 to regulate the flow rate of the bypass branch pipe 106; the other inlet and outlet valve 91 can be installed on the main inlet pipe 108 or the inlet branch pipe 104. As shown in the example of the inlet and outlet valve 91... Figure 1 When the valve 91 is installed on the main inlet pipe 108, it can regulate the flow rate of the main inlet pipe 108. When the valve 91 is installed on the branch inlet pipe 104, it can regulate the flow rate of the branch inlet pipe 104. Of course, the valve 9 can also include three valves 91, with one valve 91 each on the bypass branch pipe 106, the branch inlet pipe 104, and the main inlet pipe 108.

[0095] In another possible implementation, refer to Figure 2 Valve 9 may include at least one inlet and two outlet valve 92. The inlet and two outlet valve 92 may have a first inlet and two outlets. The inlet and two outlet valve 92 can change the flow rate of the pipeline connected to the opening by changing the opening degree of the first inlet and / or the outlets. The first inlet may be connected to the main inlet pipe 108, and the two outlets may be connected to the inlet branch pipe 104 and the bypass branch pipe 106, respectively.

[0096] The one-inlet-two-outlet valve 92 can adjust the opening degree of two openings or all three openings. To better control the flow rate, when the one-inlet-two-outlet valve 92 can only adjust the opening degree of two openings, a one-inlet-one-outlet valve 91 can be installed in the upstream or downstream pipeline of the one-inlet-two-outlet valve 92. For example, when the one-inlet-two-outlet valve 92 can only adjust the opening degree of two outlets, a one-inlet-one-outlet valve 91 can be installed upstream of the one-inlet-two-outlet valve 92. When the one-inlet-two-outlet valve 92 can only adjust the opening degree of one outlet and one inlet, and one outlet is connected to the inlet branch pipe 104, then a one-inlet-one-outlet valve 91 can be installed in the bypass branch pipe 106. Similarly, when the one-inlet-two-outlet valve can only adjust the opening degree of one outlet and one inlet, and one outlet is connected to the bypass branch pipe 106, then a one-inlet-one-outlet valve 91 can be installed in the inlet branch pipe 104.

[0097] It should be noted that the water inlet device provided in this application is a one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92, which can have at least two states. The first state is where liquid flows into the water inlet 101 of the water heater at a larger flow rate and into the hot water outlet 102 at a smaller flow rate. That is, a large inlet flow rate and small bypass flow rate state. The second state is where liquid flows into the water inlet 101 of the water heater at a smaller flow rate and into the hot water outlet 102 at a larger flow rate. That is, a small inlet flow rate and large bypass flow rate state. The terms "larger" and "smaller" refer to a comparison between the two states. In other words, compared to the first state, the second state has a smaller flow rate into the water inlet 101 and a larger flow rate into the hot water outlet 102. When the user uses water again, the water inlet device can operate in the second state for a period of time. After operating for a period of time, the water inlet device can switch from the second state to the first state. The time period during which the water inlet device operates in the second state can be a preset value. Alternatively, the water inlet device can switch from the second state to the first state after ignition and heating.

[0098] The water inlet device provided in this application may also have a third state: liquid flows into the water inlet 101 of the water heater at a small flow rate, and into the hot water outlet 102 of the water heater at a small flow rate. That is, a small inlet flow rate and small bypass flow rate state. When the water heater operates in the first state for a period of time, or when hot water at a stable temperature flows out of the water outlet 103 of the water heater, and the proportional valve controlling the gas of the water heater is adjusted to the maximum setting, but the water outlet temperature of the water heater measured by the temperature detector installed at the water outlet 103 of the water heater is lower than the preset temperature value, the water inlet device can be switched from the first state to the third state to increase the temperature of the water outlet 103 of the water heater.

[0099] Figures 4-28 Five different structures of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 are shown below for reference. Figures 4-28 This describes a possible implementation of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92. For ease of description, in this embodiment, the direction indicated by arrow X is the left end of the water inlet device, and the other end is the right end of the water inlet device; the direction indicated by arrow Y is the front end of the water inlet device, and the other end is the rear end of the water inlet device; the direction indicated by arrow Z is the upper end of the water inlet device, and the other side is the lower end of the water inlet device.

[0100] Figure 4 A front view of a one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 provided for an embodiment of this application. (See reference) Figure 4 The one-in-two-out valve 92 may include a valve body 1, which may have an axial first inlet 12 and a closed end 11. That is, one axial end of the valve body 1 is closed for mounting the actuator 5; the other axial end of the valve body 1 has an opening to form the first inlet 12. For example, Figure 4In this embodiment, the valve body 1 may include a cylinder 19 and a cover plate 18. The cylinder 19 may be arranged vertically, and both its upper and lower ends may have openings. The cover plate 18 may cover the upper opening of the cylinder 19 to form a closed end 11 at the upper end of the cylinder 19, and a first water inlet 12 at the lower end of the cylinder 19. Of course, the valve body 1 may also have other structures for forming the first water inlet 12 and the closed end 11; this embodiment is only used as an example. Figure 4 The structure of the cylindrical body 19 shown is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be a specific limitation.

[0101] refer to Figures 4-28 The side wall of the valve body 1 between the first water inlet 12 and the closed end 11 of the valve body 1 may be provided with a second water inlet 13 and a bypass outlet 14. At least part of the valve core assembly 2 is disposed inside the valve body 1 and is movable relative to the valve body 1. The valve core assembly 2 is used to change the opening degree of two of the second water inlet 13, the bypass outlet 14 and the first water inlet 12. Figures 4-28 The example shown is the accommodating space within the valve body 1, which is enclosed by the cylinder 19 and the cover plate 18.

[0102] The following is based on Figures 4-13 The valve core assembly 2 shown is described using the example of changing only the opening of the second inlet 13 and the bypass outlet 14. For methods where the valve core assembly 2 changes the opening of the second inlet 13 and the first inlet 12, or changes the opening of the bypass outlet 14 and the first inlet 12, please refer to the methods mentioned below for changing the second inlet 13, the bypass outlet 14, and the first inlet 12 (corresponding to...). Figures 14-28 The conclusion is as follows, which will not be discussed here.

[0103] refer to Figures 4-13 The second water inlet 13 and the bypass water outlet 14 can be located on the side wall of the cylinder 19. The valve core assembly 2 can include a valve sleeve 22, which can be connected via... Figures 4-11 This illustrates how rotation within the valve body 1 changes the opening degree between the second inlet 13 and the bypass outlet 14, or the valve sleeve 22 can also be rotated as follows: Figure 12 and Figure 13 The diagram illustrates how movement within the valve body 1 alters the opening degree of the second inlet 13 and the bypass outlet 14.

[0104] refer to Figures 4-11 In one example, the second water inlet 13 and the bypass water outlet 14 are located at different circumferential positions on the side wall of the cylinder 19. Figures 4-11 The example shown is that the second water inlet 13 is located on the left side of the cylinder 19, and the bypass water outlet 14 is located on the right side of the cylinder 19.

[0105] The valve sleeve 22 is rotatably disposed within the accommodating space formed by the cylinder 19 and the cover plate 18, and the rotation axis of the valve sleeve 22 can be arranged along the axis of the cylinder 19. That is, the rotation axis of the valve sleeve 22 is parallel to or coincides with the axis of the cylinder 19. The interior of the valve sleeve 22 may have a central hole 221, which can be opposite to and communicate with the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1. The side wall of the valve sleeve 22 has a communicating groove 222 communicating with the central hole 221. The communicating groove 222 can be used to be opposite to the second water inlet 13, so that the communicating groove 222 communicates with the second water inlet 13. The communicating groove 222 can be used to be opposite to the bypass outlet 14, so that the communicating groove 222 communicates with the bypass outlet 14.

[0106] Specifically, the connecting groove 222 can connect the second water inlet 13, the bypass water outlet 14, and the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1 through the central hole 221. The connecting groove 222 can be configured in several ways:

[0107] In one possible implementation, Figure 6 for Figure 4 The exploded view of valve core assembly 2 is shown. Figure 7 for Figure 4 The figure shown is a three-dimensional longitudinal sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 in its first state. Figure 8 for Figure 4 The longitudinal sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 shown is in the second state. Figure 9 for Figure 4 The diagram shows a transverse sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 in its second state. (Reference) Figures 6-9 The connecting groove 222 may include at least a first connecting groove 223 and a second connecting groove 224. The first connecting groove 223 and the second connecting groove 224 may have a preset distance in the circumferential direction of the valve sleeve 22. The first connecting groove 223 can be used to connect to the second water inlet 13, and the second connecting groove 224 can be used to connect to the bypass outlet 14.

[0108] Figures 7-9 The hollow arrow shown indicates the direction of liquid flow. (Reference) Figures 7-9 The first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1 can be the first water inlet of a valve with one inlet and two outlets. The first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1 can be connected to the main water inlet pipe 108 through the first water pipe 15. The first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1, the central hole 221 of the valve sleeve 22, the first connecting groove 223 of the valve sleeve 22, and the second water inlet 13 can form a water inlet channel. The second water inlet 13 can be connected to the main water inlet pipe 16 through the second water pipe 16. Figure 2 The inlet branch pipe 104 is connected to the valve body 1. The first water inlet 12, the center hole 221 of the valve sleeve 22, the second connecting groove 224 of the valve sleeve 22, and the bypass outlet 14 can form a bypass flow channel. The bypass outlet 14 can be connected to the valve body 1 through the bypass pipe 17. Figure 2The bypass branch pipe 106 is connected.

[0109] refer to Figure 7 In the first state, the one-in-two-outlet valve 92 can be directly opposite the second water inlet 13, and the area of ​​direct opposition is relatively large. That is, the area of ​​the projection of the first connecting groove 223 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 onto the side wall of the cylinder 19 that coincides with the area of ​​the second water inlet 13 is relatively large. In the first state, the second connecting groove 224 can be directly opposite the bypass outlet 14, and the area of ​​direct opposition can be relatively small. That is, the area of ​​the projection of the first connecting groove 223 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 onto the side wall of the cylinder 19 that coincides with the area of ​​the second water inlet 13 is relatively small.

[0110] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the second state, the one-in-two-outlet valve 92 can be directly opposite the second water inlet 13, and the area of ​​direct opposition is relatively small. That is, the area of ​​the projection of the first connecting groove 223 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 onto the side wall of the cylinder 19 that coincides with the area of ​​the second water inlet 13 is relatively small. In the second state, the second connecting groove 224 can be directly opposite the bypass water outlet 14, and the area of ​​direct opposition can be relatively large. That is, the area of ​​the projection of the second connecting groove 224 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 onto the side wall of the cylinder 19 that coincides with the area of ​​the bypass water outlet 14 is relatively large.

[0111] It should be noted that the area of ​​the bypass outlet 14 can be as follows: Figures 7-9 The area shown is larger than that of the second connecting channel 224. Of course, the area of ​​the bypass outlet 14 can also be smaller than that of the second connecting channel 224.

[0112] refer to Figure 8 In order to avoid excessively affecting the water inlet volume of the water heater in the second state, that is, to ensure the flow rate of the water inlet channel in the second state, the connection point between the first connecting groove 223 and the second water outlet 13 can be lower than the second connecting groove 224. In other words, in the second state, only liquid higher than the lower end of the second connecting groove 224 can flow into the bypass pipe 17 through the second connecting groove 224 and the bypass outlet 14.

[0113] Specifically, refer to Figure 9 In the second state, a portion of the first connecting groove 223 is obscured by the inner surface of the cylinder 19. The portion of the first connecting groove 223 not obscured by the inner surface of the cylinder 19 can be opposite to and communicate with the second water inlet 13. (Reference) Figure 8 The lower end of the first connecting groove 223, which is not obscured by the inner surface of the cylinder 19, may be lower than the second connecting groove 224. The upper end of part of the first connecting groove 223 may be as follows: Figure 8The portion shown is higher than the lower end of the second connecting groove 224 and lower than the upper end of the second connecting groove 224. Of course, the upper end of this portion of the first connecting groove 223 may also be lower than the lower end of the second connecting groove 224.

[0114] In order to ensure that, in the second state, the portion of the first connecting groove 223 that is not obscured by the inner surface of the cylinder 19, i.e., the portion of the first connecting groove 223 opposite to the second water inlet 13, is lower than the second connecting groove 224, the shape of the first connecting groove 223 can be configured as follows:

[0115] refer to Figure 5 Optionally, at least a portion of the highest point of the first connecting groove 223 may gradually tilt upwards along a preset direction. The preset direction may be the rotation direction of the valve sleeve 22 as it transitions from the first state to the second state. For example, Figure 5 The middle arrow W indicates a counter-clockwise direction. (Reference) Figure 2 The valve sleeve 22 can rotate from the first state to the second state in the W direction, i.e., counterclockwise. The upper edge of the first connecting groove 223 can gradually slope upward in the counterclockwise direction.

[0116] In order to increase the opening size of the first connecting groove 223, at least a portion of the first connecting groove 223 may be disposed on the upper part of the side wall of the valve sleeve 22, and at least a portion of the first connecting groove 223 may be disposed on the lower part of the side wall of the valve sleeve 22. For example, Figure 5 The left edge of the first connecting groove 223 can be arc-shaped, and the center of the left edge can be located on the right side of the left edge. That is, the first connecting groove 223 can be a shape symmetrical about the central axis of the valve sleeve 22, and the center of the left edge can be located on the central axis of the valve sleeve 22. The central axis of the valve sleeve 22 can be parallel to the bottom surface of the valve sleeve 22, and the distance from the upper end surface of the valve sleeve 22 to the central axis is equal to the distance from the lower end surface of the valve sleeve 22 to the central axis.

[0117] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 Optionally, to allow the valve sleeve 22 to rotate relatively stably within the cylinder 19, the outer surface of the sidewall of the valve sleeve 22 can contact the inner surface of the cylinder 19, and the outer surface of the valve sleeve 22 can be adapted to the inner surface of the cylinder 19. To allow the outer surface of the sidewall of the valve sleeve 22 to contact the inner surface of the first water pipe 15, the upper end face of the valve sleeve 22 can be higher than the highest point of the second water inlet 13 and the bypass outlet 14. The lower end face of the valve sleeve 22 can be lower than the lowest point of the second water inlet 13 and the bypass outlet 14.

[0118] Continue to refer to Figures 5-8To rotate the valve sleeve 22, the valve sleeve 22 may optionally include a side wall and a top wall, with a valve stem 21 fixed to the top wall. The valve stem 21 can extend through the cover plate 18 and connect to a driver 5 located outside the cover plate 18. The driver 5 can drive the valve stem 21 to rotate, thereby causing the valve sleeve 22 to rotate. The driver 5 can communicate with the controller 7 mentioned above. The driver 5 can be a motor, which may have a motor shaft. The motor shaft can be directly connected to the valve stem 21 by welding, interference fit, coupling, etc., or it can be indirectly connected to the valve stem 21 via a reducer, etc.

[0119] To ensure stable rotation of the valve stem 21, a bushing 4 can be accommodated within the space formed by the cover plate 18 and the cylinder 19. The outer surface of the bushing 4 can be fixed to the inner surface of the cylinder 19, and the upper surface of the bushing 4 can abut against the cover plate 18. The valve stem 21 can pass through the bushing 4 and rotate relative to the bushing 4. The outer surface of the bushing 4 can be provided with a groove, and a sealing ring 8 can be accommodated between the groove and the inner surface of the cylinder 19 to achieve a seal between the bushing 4 and the inner surface of the cylinder 19.

[0120] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 To achieve axial positioning of the valve sleeve 22 within the cylinder 19, the top wall of the valve sleeve 22 can abut against the lower surface of the bushing 4. A first water pipe 15 can be fixed to the lower end of the cylinder 19. The first water pipe 15 can be coaxially arranged with the cylinder 19, and the diameter of the first water pipe 15 can be smaller than the diameter of the cylinder 19, so that the inner surface of the first water pipe 15 can be closer to the axis of the cylinder 19 than the inner surface of the cylinder 19, thereby forming a limiting step surface for restricting the lower end face of the valve sleeve 22.

[0121] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the second type of one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 provided in the embodiments of this application in the first state. Figure 11 for Figure 10 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 in its second state. (Reference) Figure 10 and Figure 11 In another example, the second water inlet 13 and the bypass water outlet 14 are located at different axial positions on the side wall of the cylinder 19. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The example shown is that the second water inlet 13 is located at the lower end of the cylinder 19, and the bypass water outlet 14 is located at the upper end of the cylinder 19.

[0122] The valve sleeve 22 is slidably disposed within the accommodating space formed by the cylinder 19 and the cover plate 18, and the valve sleeve 22 can slide along the axial direction of the cylinder 19. The interior of the valve sleeve 22 may have a central hole 221, which is opposite to and communicates with the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1. The sidewall of the valve sleeve 22 may have a first connecting groove 223 and a second connecting groove 224 communicating with the central hole 221. The first connecting groove 223 and the second connecting groove 224 may have a predetermined distance in the axial direction of the valve sleeve 22. The first connecting groove 223 can be used to connect to the second water inlet 13, and the second connecting groove 224 can be used to connect to the bypass outlet 14.

[0123] Additionally, the valve sleeve 22 may include a top wall and side walls. A valve stem 21 may be connected to the top wall of the valve sleeve 22. The valve stem 21 can extend through the cover plate 18 and move axially relative to the cover plate 18 along the cylinder 19. The portion of the valve stem 21 located outside the cover plate 18 can be connected to the actuator 5. The actuator 5 can communicate with the controller 7 mentioned above. The actuator 5 may be a linear motor, cylinder, or other device capable of outputting axial force. The actuator 5 may also be a rotary motor or a conversion mechanism that converts torque into linear motion.

[0124] In another possible implementation of the connecting slot 222 Figure 12 This is a transverse sectional view of the third type of one-inlet, two-outlet valve provided in the embodiments of this application in its first state. Figure 13 for Figure 10 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve in its second state. (Reference) Figure 12 and Figure 13 At least a portion of the valve sleeve 22 may have a semi-annular cross-sectional shape. A central hole 221 communicating with the first water inlet 12 may be formed on the inner surface of the valve sleeve 22. The valve sleeve 22 may have a circumferential first end face 225 and a second end face 226; that is, one circumferential end of the valve sleeve 22 may have the first end face 225, and the other circumferential end of the valve sleeve 22 may have the second end face 226. Connecting groove 222 ( Figure 12 and Figure 13 (Not shown in the figure) It can also be formed between the first end face 225 and the second end face 226 of the valve sleeve 22.

[0125] The circumference of the inner surface between the second end of the second water inlet 13 of the cylinder 19 and the first end of the bypass outlet 14 of the cylinder 19 can be smaller than the circumference of the outer surface of the valve sleeve 22 (that is, the circumference between the first end face 225 and the second end face 226 of the valve sleeve 22).

[0126] Specifically, the outer surface of the valve sleeve 22 can be attached to the inner surface of the cylinder 19 and can rotate relative to the inner surface of the cylinder 19. When the valve sleeve 22 is in such a position... Figure 12In the first state shown, the valve sleeve 22 may block a small portion of the second water inlet 13 or may not block the second water inlet 13, that is, the projection of the valve sleeve 22 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 on the cylinder 19 does not fall within the second water inlet 13 or only a small portion falls within the second water inlet 13, so that the opening of the second water inlet 13 is larger; the valve sleeve 22 may block at least a portion of the bypass outlet 14, so that the opening of the bypass outlet 14 is smaller.

[0127] When valve sleeve 22 is in such a position Figure 13 In the second state shown, the valve sleeve 22 can block at least part of the second water inlet 13, that is, the projection of the valve sleeve 22 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 on the cylinder 19 falls at least partially within the second water inlet 13, so that the opening of the second water inlet 13 is smaller; the valve sleeve 22 can block a small part of the bypass outlet 14 or not block the bypass outlet 14, that is, the projection of the valve sleeve 22 along the radial direction of the cylinder 19 on the cylinder 19 does not fall within the bypass outlet 14 or only a small part falls within the bypass outlet 14, so that the opening of the bypass outlet 14 is larger.

[0128] The following is for reference. Figures 14-22 This describes a one-inlet, two-outlet valve that can change the three openings. Using a one-inlet, two-outlet valve that can change the three openings has the advantage of changing a large range of flow with a small range of drive.

[0129] The similarity between the one-in-two-out valve with two openings described above and the one-in-two-out valve with three openings described below lies in the fact that the valve core assembly 2 may include a valve sleeve 22, which can change the opening degree of the second water inlet 13 and the bypass water outlet 14 by rotating within the cylinder 19. The difference lies in the fact that the valve core assembly 2 may also include a valve stem 21, which can pass through the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1 and can change the opening degree of the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1 by sliding along the axis of the cylinder 19.

[0130] Figure 19 for Figure 14 The diagram shows a longitudinal sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 in its first state. Figure 21 for Figure 14 The diagram shows a longitudinal sectional view of the one-inlet, two-outlet valve 92 in its second state. (Reference) Figure 19 and Figure 21 The valve stem 21 can be inserted through the cylinder 19 along its axial direction. Part of the valve stem 21 can be located outside the cover plate 18 for connection with the actuator 5; another part of the valve stem 21 can be located inside the cylinder 19 and inserted through the first inlet 12 of the valve body 1, with the outer surface of this part of the valve stem 21 forming a flow channel between it and the inner surface of the first inlet 12 of the valve body 1 for liquid flow. The size of this flow channel can be changed during the axial movement of the valve stem 21 along the cylinder 19.

[0131] For example, Figure 19 and Figure 21 In this configuration, a baffle plate 24 can be fixed to the valve stem 21, and an annular baffle platform 32 can be fixed to the inner surface of the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1, i.e., the baffle platform 32 can have a central hole 221 inside. During the transition of the valve stem 21 from the first state to the second state, the flow path of the valve body 1 decreases as it moves downward. To achieve this trend, at least one of the outer surface of the baffle plate 24 and the inner surface of the baffle platform 32 has an inclined surface. In one example, refer to... Figure 19 and Figure 21 The center hole 221 of the baffle platform 32 may include an inverted cone section, the diameter of which may be along the end face near the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1 (i.e., Figure 19 and Figure 21 The lower end face of the cylinder 19 gradually decreases in size, so that as the interceptor plate 24 gradually approaches the end face of the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1, the distance between the interceptor plate 24 and the central hole 221 gradually decreases. Optionally, the central hole 221 may also include a cylindrical section, which may be closer to the end face of the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1 than the inverted conical section, and the diameter of the cylindrical section may be equal to the minimum diameter of the inverted conical section. In the second state, part of the interceptor plate 24 may be located within the cylindrical section to extend the length of the smaller flow channel.

[0132] In another example, the interceptor plate 24 may be coaxial with the valve stem 21, and at least a portion of the diameter of the interceptor plate 24 gradually decreases along the direction close to the end face of the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1. In the first state, the smaller diameter end of the interceptor plate 24 may be located within the central hole 221 of the baffle platform 32. During the transition from the first state to the second state, the larger diameter end of the interceptor plate 24 gradually falls into the central hole 221 of the baffle platform 32, so as to gradually reduce the distance between the interceptor plate 24 and the central hole 221 of the baffle platform 32.

[0133] Figure 22 for Figure 21 The cross-sectional view at mounting plate 31 shown is for reference. Figure 21 and Figure 22 To ensure stable movement of the valve stem 21 relative to the valve body 1, an optional mounting plate 31 may be fixed inside the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1. The mounting plate 31 may have a limiting hole for the valve stem 21 to pass through, and part of the valve stem 21 may slide within the limiting hole. Additionally, a flow channel for liquid to flow may be provided between the mounting plate 31 and the cylinder 19 or the baffle platform 32.

[0134] To simplify control, a single actuator 5 can be used to both move the valve stem 21 and rotate the valve sleeve 22. (Reference) Figure 19 and Figure 21Optionally, the valve stem 21 may include a first end and a second end. The first end of the valve stem 21 may be threadedly connected to the valve body 1, so that when the actuator 5 drives the valve stem 21 to rotate, the valve stem 21 can rotate while moving along the axial direction of the valve stem 21. The second end of the valve stem 21 may be connected to the valve sleeve 22, so that the valve stem 21 can drive the valve sleeve 22 to rotate when it moves. Of course, in order to facilitate the valve stem 21 to change the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1, the second end of the valve stem 21 may pass through the valve sleeve 22 and pass through the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1.

[0135] Additionally, to ensure the diameter of the valve stem 21 is smaller than the diameter of the cylinder 19, facilitating the installation of the valve sleeve 22, a bushing 4 may be accommodated within the receiving space formed by the cylinder 19 and the cover plate 18. The bushing 4 may include a mounting portion 41. The outer surface of the mounting portion 41 may be fixed to the inner surface of the cylinder 19, and the interior of the mounting portion 41 may have a threaded hole for threaded connection with the first end of the valve stem 21. To prevent liquid leakage from the receiving space, a sealing ring 8 may be provided between the mounting portion 41 and the inner surface of the cylinder 19. Furthermore, to facilitate the rotation of the valve sleeve 22 within the cylinder 19, refer to... Figure 19 and Figure 21 The bushing 4 may further include a limiting portion 42, which may be coaxially arranged with the mounting portion 41 and located below the mounting portion 41. The diameter of the limiting portion 42 may be smaller than the diameter of the mounting portion 41, so that there may be a certain gap between the limiting portion 42 and the inner surface of the cylinder 19. The valve sleeve 22 may be accommodated within this gap. That is, the valve sleeve 22 may be sleeved on the outside of the limiting portion 42 and may be embedded in the inside of the cylinder 19 to limit the radial displacement of the valve sleeve 22.

[0136] In addition, the valve stem 21 can drive the valve sleeve 22 to move in several possible ways:

[0137] In one possible implementation, the valve sleeve 22 can be as follows: Figures 15-21 The movement is shown relative to valve stem 21. (Reference) Figures 15-21 A mounting rod 23 may be fixed to the side wall of the valve stem 21, and the mounting rod 23 may be arranged radially along the valve stem 21. The side wall of the valve sleeve 22 may have a mounting groove 227 that mates with the mounting rod 23. Since the valve stem 21 rotates and moves, the mounting groove 227 is approximately L-shaped, and one end of the mounting groove 227 may have an opening.

[0138] During the process of the valve stem 21 driving the valve sleeve 22 to rotate via the mounting rod 23 and the mounting groove 227, the valve stem 21 may have the following characteristics: Figure 15 The first position shown and as Figure 17 The second position shown. (Reference) Figure 16The mounting groove 227 may include a first portion 2271 and a second portion 2272. The first portion 2271 may extend axially along the valve sleeve 22, and the second portion 2272 may extend circumferentially along the valve sleeve 22, with one end of the second portion 2272 opposite to the first portion 2271 being open.

[0139] refer to Figure 19 In the first state, the second water inlet 13 is at a large opening, the bypass outlet 14 is at a small opening, and the first water inlet 12 of the valve body 1 is at a large opening. The valve stem 21 is... Figure 19 Exercise to Figure 21 During the process, the valve stem 21 can rotate clockwise while descending, and the mounting rod 23 is initially in the position... Figure 15 The first position shown allows the valve stem 21 to drive the valve sleeve 22 to rotate and descend simultaneously, thus forming... Figure 20 and Figure 21 The opening degree of the bypass outlet 14 is shown. When the lower end face of the valve sleeve 22 abuts against the limiting part 42 inside the valve body 1, the mounting rod 23 can be moved from... Figure 15 The first position shown indicates clockwise rotation, and the rod slides out of the opening of the second portion 2272 of the mounting groove 227. The mounting rod 23 is... Figure 17 The second position shown moves to Figure 15 After the first position shown, to form Figure 20 The location of the interceptor plate 24 is shown.

[0140] Similarly, in valve stem 21, Figure 21 Rotate to Figure 19 During the process, the valve stem 21 can rotate counterclockwise while rising, causing the mounting rod 23 to move from... Figure 17 The second position shown moves to Figure 15 The first position is shown. After the mounting rod 23 moves to the first position, the valve stem 21 continues to rotate counterclockwise, causing the valve sleeve 22 to rotate counterclockwise and rise simultaneously, thus forming... Figure 18 and Figure 19 The opening degree of the bypass outlet 14 is shown.

[0141] It should be noted that the limiting part 42 mentioned above can limit the lowest position of the valve sleeve 22 rotation so that the limiting part 42 can support the valve sleeve 22 when the mounting rod 23 is disengaged from the mounting groove 227 of the valve sleeve 22. Figure 19 and Figure 21 In the middle, the upper end surface of the water baffle 32 can be higher than the second water inlet 13, so as to support the valve sleeve 22.

[0142] The following is for reference. Figures 23-28 This describes a one-in-two-out valve that can change the opening degree of three openings. Using a one-in-two-out valve that can change the opening degree of three openings has the advantage of changing a large range of flow with a small range of drive.

[0143] The water inlet device uses a one-inlet-two-outlet valve, which includes a valve body 1 and a valve assembly 2. The valve body is provided with a first water inlet 12, a second water inlet 13, and a bypass water outlet 14.

[0144] The valve core assembly 2 includes a valve stem 21 and a valve sleeve 22. One end of the valve stem 21 is provided with an interceptor plate 24. The valve sleeve 22 is fitted on the valve stem 21 and can intermittently rotate with the valve stem 21.

[0145] The valve stem 21 is rotatably mounted on the valve body 1 and can move relative to the valve body 1 during rotation. The valve sleeve 22 and the interceptor plate 24 are located in the valve body 1. The valve sleeve 22 is arranged on one side of the bypass outlet 14 and is used to adjust the opening of the bypass outlet 14. The interceptor plate 24 is arranged opposite to the second water inlet 13 and is used to adjust the opening of the second water inlet 13.

[0146] Specifically, the valve body 1 may include a cylinder 19 and a cover plate 18. The cylinder 19 may be arranged vertically, and both its upper and lower ends may have openings. The cover plate 18 may cover the upper opening of the cylinder 19 to form a closed end 11 at the upper end of the cylinder 19, and a second water inlet 13 at the lower end of the cylinder 19. The side wall of the valve body 1 between the second water inlet 13 and the closed end 11 of the valve body 1 may be provided with a first water inlet 12 and a bypass outlet 14.

[0147] In use, the valve stem 21 rotates to move the interceptor plate 24 closer to or further away from the second water inlet 13 to change its opening. At the same time, during the rotation of the valve stem 21, the valve stem 21 can also drive the valve sleeve 22 to rotate in the valve body 1, thereby changing the opening of the bypass outlet 14.

[0148] Similarly, a central hole 221 is formed inside the valve sleeve 22, which is arranged opposite to the second water inlet 13. A first connecting groove 223 is formed on the side of the valve sleeve 22 to connect the central hole 221. The first connecting groove 223 is used to connect the bypass outlet 14.

[0149] During the adjustment of the bypass outlet 14, the overlap area between the first connecting groove 223 and the bypass outlet 14 will change. A larger overlap area will increase the opening of the bypass outlet 14, and vice versa. Correspondingly, as the valve sleeve 22 rotates with the valve stem 21, it can block at least part of the bypass outlet 14 to change the opening of the bypass outlet 14.

[0150] Preferably, the valve sleeve 22 can also change the opening degree of the first water inlet 12 and the bypass water outlet 14 by rotating within the cylinder 19. Specifically, the side wall of the valve sleeve 22 is also provided with a second connecting groove 224, through which the first water inlet 12 connects to the central hole 221.

[0151] During the process of opening the first water inlet 12, the overlapping area between the second connecting groove 224 and the first water inlet 12 will change. A larger overlapping area will increase the opening of the first water inlet 12, and vice versa. Correspondingly, as the valve sleeve 22 rotates with the valve stem 21, the valve sleeve 22 can also block at least part of the first water inlet 12 to change the opening of the first water inlet 12.

[0152] in addition, Figures 23-28 The lower end face of the bypass outlet 14 shown is higher than the upper end face of the first inlet 12, that is, along the axial direction of the valve sleeve 22, the first inlet 12 and the bypass outlet 14 are staggered; see reference. Figure 24 , Figure 26 as well as Figure 28 The valve sleeve 22 has a first connecting groove 223 and a second connecting groove 224 arranged vertically along the axial direction of the valve sleeve 22.

[0153] Valve sleeve 22 can be as Figures 23-28 The valve stem 21 is fixed to the valve sleeve 22. The second end of the valve stem 21 can pass through the valve sleeve 22 and be fixed to it. The fixing method between the valve stem 21 and the valve sleeve 22 can be a non-removable connection such as welding or bonding, or a detachable connection such as a snap-fit ​​connection or a threaded connection. For example, Figure 23 and Figure 24 In the valve sleeve 22, the side wall may be provided with a mounting groove 227, which may have a downward-facing opening. A mounting rod 23 may be fixed to the side wall of the valve stem 21, and the mounting rod 23 may engage with the mounting groove 227. For a stable connection between the valve stem 21 and the valve sleeve 22, there may be at least two mounting rods 23, which may be evenly distributed around the outer periphery of the valve stem 21. Figure 23 and Figure 24 The example is shown with two mounting rods 23.

[0154] For example, the valve stem 21 is fixed with a baffle plate 24, and an annular baffle platform 32 can be fixed on the inner surface of the second water inlet 13 of the valve body 1. During the process of the valve stem 21 changing from the first state to the second state, the baffle plate 24 moves downward to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the water flow in the second water inlet 13, thereby reducing the flow channel.

[0155] To achieve this, at least one of the outer surface of the interceptor plate 24 and the inner surface of the water-blocking platform 32 has an inclined surface. That is, an annular water-blocking platform 32 is provided in the second water inlet 13, the water-blocking platform 32 is provided with a first inclined surface to form a conical hole structure, and the interceptor plate is provided with a second inclined surface to form a conical head structure.

[0156] Specifically, the central through-hole of the baffle platform 32 may include an inverted conical section to form a conical hole structure. The diameter of the inverted conical section may gradually decrease along the direction close to the end face of the second water inlet 13 of the valve body 1, so that the distance between the interceptor plate 24 and the central hole 221 gradually decreases as the interceptor plate 24 gradually approaches the end face of the second water inlet 13 of the valve body 1. Optionally, the central through-hole of the baffle platform 32 may also include a cylindrical section, which may be closer to the end face of the second water inlet 13 of the valve body 1 than the inverted conical section, and the diameter of the cylindrical section may be equal to the minimum diameter of the inverted conical section. In the second state, part of the interceptor plate 24 may be located within the cylindrical section to extend the length of the smaller flow channel.

[0157] In another example, the interceptor plate 24 may be coaxial with the valve stem 21, and at least a portion of the diameter of the interceptor plate 24 gradually decreases along the direction close to the end face of the second water inlet 13 of the valve body 1 to form a conical head structure. In the first state, the smaller diameter end of the interceptor plate 24 may be located within the central through hole of the baffle platform 32. During the transition from the first state to the second state, the larger diameter end of the interceptor plate 24 gradually falls into the central through hole of the baffle platform 32, so as to gradually reduce the distance between the interceptor plate 24 and the central through hole of the baffle platform 32.

[0158] To ensure stable movement of the valve stem 21 relative to the valve body 1, an optional mounting plate 31 may be fixed inside the second water inlet 13 of the valve body 1. The mounting plate 31 may have a limiting hole for the valve stem 21 to pass through, and part of the valve stem 21 may slide within the limiting hole. Additionally, a flow channel for liquid to flow may be provided between the mounting plate 31 and the cylinder 19 or the baffle platform 32.

[0159] To simplify control, a single actuator 5 can be used to both move the valve stem 21 and rotate the valve sleeve 22. (Reference) Figure 19 and Figure 21 Optionally, the valve stem 21 may include a first end and a second end. The first end of the valve stem 21 may be threadedly connected to the valve body 1, so that when the actuator 5 drives the valve stem 21 to rotate, the valve stem 21 can rotate while moving along the axial direction of the valve stem 21. The second end of the valve stem 21 may be connected to the valve sleeve 22, so that the valve stem 21 can drive the valve sleeve 22 to rotate when it moves. Of course, in order to facilitate the valve stem 21 to change the second water inlet 13 of the valve body 1, the second end of the valve stem 21 may pass through the valve sleeve 22 and pass through the second water inlet 13 of the valve body 1.

[0160] Additionally, to ensure the diameter of the valve stem 21 is smaller than the diameter of the cylinder 19, facilitating the installation of the valve sleeve 22, a bushing 4 may be accommodated within the receiving space formed by the cylinder 19 and the cover plate 18. The bushing 4 may include a mounting portion 41. The outer surface of the mounting portion 41 may be fixed to the inner surface of the cylinder 19, and the interior of the mounting portion 41 may have a threaded hole for threaded connection with the first end of the valve stem 21. To prevent liquid leakage from the receiving space, a sealing ring 8 may be provided between the mounting portion 41 and the inner surface of the cylinder 19. Furthermore, to facilitate the rotation of the valve sleeve 22 within the cylinder 19, refer to... Figure 19 and Figure 21 The bushing 4 may further include a limiting portion 42, which may be coaxially arranged with the mounting portion 41 and located below the mounting portion 41. The diameter of the limiting portion 42 may be smaller than the diameter of the mounting portion 41, so that there may be a certain gap between the limiting portion 42 and the inner surface of the cylinder 19. The valve sleeve 22 may be accommodated within this gap. That is, the valve sleeve 22 may be sleeved on the outside of the limiting portion 42 and may be embedded in the inside of the cylinder 19 to limit the radial displacement of the valve sleeve 22. Example 2

[0161] The control method provided in this application embodiment may include:

[0162] Get the time when the user last used water;

[0163] Get the user's current water usage start time;

[0164] Calculate the time interval between the user's current water usage start time and the user's last water usage end time;

[0165] The time interval is compared with a preset time period. When the time interval is less than the preset time period, the valve is controlled to reduce the flow rate of cold water flowing into the inlet 101 of the water heater and increase the flow rate of cold water flowing into the hot water end 102 of the water heater.

[0166] Optionally, the control method for the water heater may also include:

[0167] Obtain the operating status of the water heater;

[0168] Get the heating status of the water heater;

[0169] Obtain the temperature of the water outlet 103 of the water heater;

[0170] Based on the operating status, heating status, and temperature of the outlet 103, the valve is controlled to adjust the flow rate of cold water flowing into the inlet 101 of the water heater and the flow rate of cold water flowing into the hot water outlet 102 of the water heater.

[0171] The terms "upper" and "lower" are used to describe the relative positions of the various structures in the accompanying drawings. They are only for clarity of description and are not intended to limit the scope of implementation of this application. Any changes or adjustments to the relative positions without substantially altering the technical content shall also be considered within the scope of implementation of this application.

[0172] It should be noted that, in 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 indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than 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 indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0173] Furthermore, in this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "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 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. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0174] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this disclosure. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0175] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A water heater, characterized in that, include: The outer casing is provided with an inlet main pipe and an outlet main pipe; A burner, which is disposed in the housing and is used to burn fuel gas; A heat exchanger, which is arranged above the burner and is used for heat exchange of water flow; A water inlet device includes a valve body and a valve assembly. The valve body has a first water inlet, a second water inlet, and a bypass outlet. The valve assembly includes a valve stem, a valve sleeve, and a baffle plate. The valve sleeve and the baffle plate are sequentially fixed on the valve stem, with the baffle plate positioned near one end of the valve stem. The valve stem is rotatably mounted on the valve body and can move relative to the valve body during rotation. The valve sleeve and the baffle plate are located within the valve body. The valve sleeve is positioned on one side of the bypass outlet and is used to adjust the opening of the bypass outlet. The baffle plate is positioned opposite the second water inlet and is used to adjust the opening of the second water inlet. The water inlet device is disposed in the outer casing, the first water inlet is connected to the main water inlet pipe, the second water inlet is connected to the water inlet end of the heat exchanger, and the hot water end of the heat exchanger and the bypass water outlet are respectively connected to the main water outlet pipe; A mounting rod is fixed to the side wall of the valve stem. The mounting rod is arranged radially along the valve stem. The side wall of the valve sleeve has a mounting groove that mates with the mounting rod. The mounting groove includes a first part and a second part. The first part extends axially along the valve sleeve, and the second part extends circumferentially along the valve sleeve. The end of the second part opposite to the first part is open. The valve body is provided with a bushing. The bushing includes a limiting part, which is configured to limit the rotation of the valve sleeve to its lowest position so that the limiting part can support the valve sleeve when the mounting rod is disengaged from the mounting groove of the valve sleeve.

2. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second water inlet is connected to the water inlet of the heat exchanger via an inlet branch pipe, the hot water end of the heat exchanger is connected to the main outlet via an outlet branch pipe, and the bypass outlet is connected to the main outlet via the bypass branch pipe.

3. The water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bypass branch pipe is arranged below the burner, the water inlet branch pipe is arranged on one side of the burner, and the water outlet branch pipe is arranged on the other side of the burner.

4. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing also includes a fan, and both the fan and the water inlet device are located below the burner. The fan is close to one side wall of the housing, and the water inlet device is close to the other side wall of the housing.

5. The water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, The heat exchanger includes a enclosure and heat exchange tubes, which are arranged in a circuitous manner within the enclosure and connected between the inlet branch pipe and the outlet branch pipe.

6. The water heater according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The valve stem has a first end and a second end. The first end of the valve stem is provided with a threaded portion, and the valve stem is threadedly connected to the valve body through the threaded portion. The second end of the valve stem is provided with the interceptor plate.

7. The water heater according to claim 6, characterized in that, The bushing is provided with a threaded hole, and the threaded part is threadedly connected in the threaded hole.

8. The water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that, The bushing includes a mounting portion and a limiting portion arranged sequentially. The mounting portion is embedded in the valve body and fixed to the inner surface of the valve body. The valve stem is threaded onto the mounting portion. The limiting portion is arranged on the mounting portion and has a through hole for the valve stem to pass through. A preset distance is formed between the limiting portion and the inner surface of the valve body. The valve sleeve is rotatably arranged within the preset distance.

9. The water heater according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The valve sleeve has a central hole inside, and a first connecting groove is provided on the side wall of the valve sleeve. The first connecting groove connects to the central hole and is used to selectively connect to the bypass outlet. The central hole is arranged opposite to the second water inlet, and the valve stem passes through the central hole.

10. The water heater according to claim 9, characterized in that, The side wall of the valve sleeve is also provided with a second connecting groove, and the first water inlet is connected to the central hole through the second connecting groove; along the axial direction of the valve sleeve, the first water inlet and the bypass outlet are staggered; the first connecting groove and the second connecting groove are distributed sequentially along the axial direction of the valve sleeve.

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