Three-way valve assembly, water heater system and control method

Abstract

The application discloses a three-way valve assembly, a water heater system and a control method, wherein the three-way valve assembly is used for an inner circulation pipeline of a water heater, the inner circulation pipeline comprises a bypass pipe, the three-way valve assembly comprises a valve body, the valve body is provided with a first water inlet, a second water inlet and a water outlet; the valve body is internally provided with a first channel, a second channel, a bypass channel and a plugging mechanism, the first channel is connected between the first water inlet and the water outlet, the first channel is a normally open channel, the second channel is connected between the first water inlet and the water outlet, and the bypass channel is connected between the second water inlet and the water outlet; and the plugging mechanism simultaneously plugs and opens the second channel and the bypass channel. The application can realize water quantity regulation by opening and closing the second channel through the plugging mechanism, and can also realize opening and closing of the bypass channel simultaneously.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water heater technology, specifically to a three-way valve assembly, a water heater system, and a control method. Background Technology

[0002] In winter, gas water heaters often experience problems due to low tap water temperatures and high water temperature requirements. If a large volume of water is used, the water may not heat up sufficiently. In summer, the water may become scalding hot. A common solution is to add a flow control system. However, adding a flow control system and a buffer tank is expensive and takes up internal space, increasing the overall size of the water heater. Another approach is to install a flow regulating valve on the water heater's inlet pipe.

[0003] Additionally, gas water heaters often experience a period of cold water, known as "intercalated water," when the water is turned off and then back on during showers, which negatively impacts the user experience. A common solution is to install a buffer tank at the water heater's outlet. Another approach involves connecting a bypass pipe between the water heater's inlet and outlet. After the water is turned off, the water discharged from the outlet flows through this bypass pipe back into the inlet, controlling the internal circulation system's heating. This prevents cold water from flowing out when the user turns the water back on.

[0004] The aforementioned regulation of inlet water flow and control of bypass pipe opening and closing are usually two separate structures. If these two different structures and functions are integrated into the same water heater, they must be improved. Otherwise, the water flow regulation structure and the bypass pipe opening and closing control structure will occupy a large space and be difficult to install in the water heater. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art in which the water flow regulation structure and the bypass pipe opening and closing control structure are directly installed in the water heater, occupying a large space. The invention provides a highly integrated three-way valve assembly, water heater system and control method to simultaneously realize the regulation of water flow and the opening and closing of the bypass pipe.

[0006] The present invention solves the above-mentioned technical problems through the following technical solution:

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a three-way valve assembly for use in the internal circulation pipeline of a water heater, the internal circulation pipeline including a bypass pipe, the two ends of the bypass pipe being respectively connected to the water inlet pipeline and the water outlet pipeline of the water heater, the three-way valve assembly including a valve body, the valve body being provided with a first water inlet, a second water inlet and a water outlet;

[0008] The valve body is internally provided with a first channel, a second channel, a bypass channel, and a sealing mechanism.

[0009] The first channel is connected between the first inlet and the outlet, and the first channel is a normally open channel. The second channel is connected between the first inlet and the outlet, and the bypass channel is connected between the second inlet and the outlet.

[0010] The blocking mechanism simultaneously blocks and opens the second channel and the bypass channel.

[0011] In this design, a first channel and a second channel are configured. The first channel is normally open, and the second channel is opened or closed via a sealing mechanism. In summer, when using a gas water heater, the high temperature of the tap water often results in excessively high outlet water temperatures. Even when the heater is operating at minimum load, the outlet water temperature remains higher than the set temperature. In this solution, the three-way valve assembly opens the second channel to increase the water flow and prevent overheating. Similarly, in winter, when using a gas water heater, the low temperature of the tap water often results in excessively low outlet water temperatures. Even when the heater is operating at maximum load, the outlet water temperature remains lower than the set temperature. In this solution, the three-way valve assembly closes the second channel to reduce the water flow and prevent excessively low outlet water temperatures.

[0012] Because the blocking mechanism can simultaneously close and open the bypass channel while closing and opening the second channel, the blocking component can simultaneously drive the adjustment of water flow and the opening and closing of the bypass pipe.

[0013] Preferably, the second channel has a manifold cavity, which is a shared part of the second channel and the bypass channel. The manifold cavity has a manifold outlet, which is connected to the water outlet. The blocking mechanism blocks the manifold outlet of the manifold cavity to simultaneously block the second channel and the bypass channel.

[0014] In this solution, only the merging outlet needs to be blocked to simultaneously block the second channel and the bypass channel, making the blocking operation simple.

[0015] Preferably, the valve body includes an outer shell and an inner shell disposed on the inner wall of the outer shell. The inner shell has an internal cavity. The inner shell has an inner shell inlet and an inner shell outlet communicating with the internal cavity. The inner shell inlet constitutes the confluence outlet of the confluence cavity, and the inner shell outlet communicates with the water outlet. The internal cavity also constitutes a common part of the second channel and the bypass channel.

[0016] In this design, water in the manifold flows through the internal cavity of the embedded shell to the outlet of the valve body. The bypass channel and the second channel merge in the manifold and no longer split, but flow together to the outlet of the valve body. Therefore, there is no need to set up other cavities in the valve body that are connected to the outlet of the valve body for the purpose of diverting water. The internal structure of the valve body is more compact.

[0017] Preferably, the interior of the outer shell forms an inner cavity, and the inner shell divides the inner cavity into a first chamber and a second chamber. The second chamber forms the confluence cavity. The inner shell is also provided with another inner shell inlet, which is used to connect the first chamber and the inner cavity. The first channel includes the first chamber, and the first chamber flows into the inner cavity through the other inner shell inlet.

[0018] In this design, the water flow in the first channel merges with the second channel and the bypass channel in the internal cavity of the embedded shell, and then flows to the outlet of the valve body. The first channel does not need to be set up in the valve body with other cavities connected to the outlet of the valve body. The internal structure of the valve body is more compact. Furthermore, since the two inner shell inlets of the embedded shell are connected to the second chamber and the first chamber respectively, the sealing mechanism does not affect the water flow in the first channel when sealing the confluence outlet.

[0019] Preferably, the valve body is provided with a first water inlet cylinder, the inner wall of the first water inlet cylinder surrounds to form a first water inlet cavity, the inlet of the first water inlet cavity forms a first water inlet of the valve body, and a diversion unit is provided in the first water inlet cavity, the diversion unit divides the first water inlet cavity into a first diversion channel and a second diversion channel, the first diversion channel is connected to the first chamber, and the second diversion channel is connected to the second chamber.

[0020] In this scheme, water can be diverted after entering through the first inlet to form the first channel and the second channel.

[0021] Preferably, the diversion unit is cylindrical, with one end of the diversion unit near the inlet of the first water inlet cavity being an open end and the other end near the outlet of the first water inlet cavity being a closed end. The space formed by the inner wall of the diversion unit is the second diversion channel, and the gap layer between the outer wall of the diversion unit and the inner wall of the first water inlet cylinder is the first diversion channel.

[0022] In this scheme, the cylindrical diversion unit makes it easy to achieve different water flow rates in the first and second channels.

[0023] Preferably, the second diversion channel extends into the embedded housing, and a second chamber inlet is provided on the side wall of the embedded housing for connecting the second diversion channel and the second chamber; a first chamber inlet is provided on the common wall of the first diversion channel and the first chamber for connecting the first diversion channel and the first chamber.

[0024] In this design, the first diversion channel and the first chamber can be connected by the water inlet of the first chamber, and the second diversion channel and the second chamber can be connected by the water inlet of the second chamber. The structure is more compact, and the second diversion channel extends into the embedded shell, which increases the length of the second diversion channel. With the length of the diversion unit remaining unchanged, there is enough space in the second diversion channel to install other parts.

[0025] Preferably, both the first and second diversion channels are equipped with flow stabilizers.

[0026] In this scheme, the flow stabilizer is used to stabilize the maximum water flow rate in the first and second diversion channels.

[0027] Preferably, a flow stabilizer is provided in the first diversion channel, and the flow stabilizer in the first diversion channel is a wave spring flow stabilizer. The wave spring flow stabilizer is attached between the outer wall of the diversion unit and the inner wall of the first water inlet cylinder, and the outer wall of the diversion unit is provided with a circumferential recess at the wave spring flow stabilizer. The two sides of the wave spring flow stabilizer are connected through the recess.

[0028] In this design, the shape of the wave spring stabilizer is adapted to the annular space of the first diversion channel, and the space on both sides of the wave spring stabilizer is connected by the recess on the outer wall of the diversion unit, so that water can flow from one side of the wave spring stabilizer to the other side.

[0029] Preferably, the valve body is provided with a second water inlet cylinder, the inner wall of the second water inlet cylinder surrounds to form a second water inlet cavity, the inlet of the second water inlet cavity forms a second water inlet of the valve body, and a bypass check valve is provided in the second water inlet cavity.

[0030] In this design, the bypass check valve prevents water from flowing directly from the first inlet through the bypass pipe to the water outlet of the water heater.

[0031] Preferably, the three-way valve assembly further includes a flow detection unit, which includes a water turbine and a water flow sensor; the valve body is provided with a water outlet cylinder, the inner wall of which surrounds and forms a water outlet cavity, and the outlet of the water outlet cavity forms the water outlet of the valve body; the water turbine is disposed inside the first water inlet cylinder or the water outlet cylinder, and the water flow sensor is disposed on the outer side of the first water inlet cylinder or the water outlet cylinder corresponding to the water turbine.

[0032] In this solution, the flow detection unit can detect the water flow rate in the three-way valve assembly. When the flow detection unit is set in the first inlet cylinder, it can detect the inlet water flow rate. When the flow detection unit is set in the outlet cylinder, it can detect both the inlet water flow rate and the bypass circulation flow rate.

[0033] Preferably, the blocking mechanism includes a blocking unit and a driving unit, wherein the driving unit is used to drive the blocking unit to move linearly to open or close the outlet of the manifold.

[0034] In this solution, the driving method using linear motion is simpler.

[0035] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a water heater system, including a water heater, a bypass pipe, an inlet water temperature detection unit, an outlet water temperature detection unit, a circulation pump, and a control unit;

[0036] The bypass pipe is installed inside the water heater, and its two ends are respectively connected to the water inlet pipe and the water outlet pipe of the water heater;

[0037] The water inlet pipe of the water heater is equipped with the three-way valve assembly. The first water inlet is used to connect to the water supply end of the water heater, the second water inlet is used to connect to the bypass pipe, and the water outlet is used to connect to the water inlet port of the heat exchanger of the water heater.

[0038] The inlet water temperature detection unit is used to obtain the water temperature value at the inlet of the water heater;

[0039] The outlet water temperature detection unit is used to obtain the water temperature value at the outlet of the water heater;

[0040] The circulation pump is located at the inlet port of the heat exchanger of the water heater and downstream of the outlet of the three-way valve assembly. The circulation pump is used to transport the water from the outlet of the heat exchanger of the water heater through the bypass channel to the second inlet of the three-way valve assembly.

[0041] The control unit is electrically connected to the sealing mechanism, the outlet water temperature detection unit, and the inlet water temperature detection unit;

[0042] The control unit is used to detect that the water heater is operating at its minimum load when the water outlet is in a hot water state, and to control the sealing mechanism to open the second channel according to the water temperature value at the outlet of the water heater.

[0043] The control unit is used to detect that the water heater is operating at its maximum load when the water outlet is in a hot water state, and to control the sealing mechanism to close the second channel according to the water temperature value at the outlet of the water heater.

[0044] The control unit is used to control the blocking mechanism to open the bypass channel and control the water heater to perform bypass circulation preheating when the water outlet is in a non-outflow state, based on the water temperature value at the inlet of the water heater.

[0045] This solution enables control over water volume to ensure a constant water temperature at the water supply outlet when there are significant temperature variations. It also enables bypass circulation preheating control to ensure a constant water temperature during water usage.

[0046] Preferably, the water heater system further includes a zero-cold-water circulation pipe, which is located outside the water heater and its two ends are respectively connected to the water supply end and the water outlet end of the water heater.

[0047] The circulating pump is used to transport water from the heat exchanger outlet of the water heater through the zero cold water circulation pipeline to the first inlet of the three-way valve assembly.

[0048] The control unit is used to control the bypass channel to close and control the water heater to perform zero cold water circulation preheating when the water outlet is in a non-outflow state, based on the water temperature value at the outlet of the water heater. Then, it controls the bypass channel to open and controls the water heater to perform bypass circulation preheating based on the water temperature value at the inlet of the water heater.

[0049] This solution enables zero-cold-water circulation preheating, and it first performs zero-cold-water circulation preheating and then bypass circulation preheating to solve the problem that some cold water still exists in the external circulation pipe of the water heater during zero-cold-water circulation preheating.

[0050] Thirdly, the present invention provides a control method for a water heater system, used in the water heater system, the control method comprising:

[0051] When the water outlet is in the hot water output state, the first water flow control step is executed;

[0052] When the water outlet is in the hot water output state, execute the second water flow control step;

[0053] When the water outlet is in the hot water output state, the bypass circulation preheating control step is executed;

[0054] The first water volume control step specifically includes: when it is detected that the water temperature at the outlet of the water heater is greater than the preset outlet temperature when the water heater is operating at minimum load, controlling the sealing mechanism to open the second channel;

[0055] The second water volume control step specifically includes: when it is detected that the water temperature at the outlet of the water heater is less than the preset outlet temperature when the water heater is operating at maximum load, controlling the sealing mechanism to close the second channel;

[0056] The bypass circulation preheating control step specifically includes: when the difference between the water temperature at the inlet of the water heater and the preset inlet temperature is greater than or equal to a certain value, controlling the blocking mechanism to open the bypass channel and controlling the circulation pump and the heat exchanger of the water heater to run, and starting the bypass circulation preheating; when the water temperature at the inlet of the water heater reaches the preset inlet temperature, controlling the circulation pump and the heat exchanger of the water heater to stop running, and controlling the blocking mechanism to close the bypass channel, and the bypass circulation preheating ends.

[0057] Preferably, the control method further includes performing a zero-cold-water circulation preheating control step when the water-using end is in a non-outflow state, and the bypass circulation preheating control step is further included after the zero-cold-water circulation preheating control step.

[0058] The zero-cold-water circulation preheating control specifically includes:

[0059] When the user activates the zero-cold-water function of the water heater, and the difference between the outlet water temperature and the preset outlet water temperature is greater than or equal to a certain value, the bypass channel is closed, and the circulation pump and the heat exchanger of the water heater are started to begin zero-cold-water circulation preheating. The water from the outlet of the water heater flows through the zero-cold-water circulation pipe to the inlet of the water heater. When the zero-cold-water circulation preheating is completed, the circulation pump and the heat exchanger of the water heater are stopped.

[0060] The positive and progressive effects of this invention are as follows:

[0061] This invention, by setting up a first channel, a second channel, a bypass channel, and a blocking mechanism, can regulate the water volume by opening and closing the second channel. At the same time, the blocking mechanism can also open and close the bypass channel, thereby enabling the water heater to achieve bypass circulation preheating.

[0062] Furthermore, since the water volume regulation and control are carried out when the water-using end is in the hot water output state, while the bypass circulation preheating and zero cold water circulation preheating are carried out when the water-using end is in the non-outflow state, there is a time difference between these two control processes, and they do not interfere with each other. Therefore, the control of the two states can be achieved by using the same blocking mechanism. Attached Figure Description

[0063] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a water heater system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the three-way valve assembly.

[0065] Figure 3 for Figure 2 An axial sectional view of one structure of a three-way valve assembly.

[0066] Figure 4 for Figure 2 A half-section structural schematic diagram of the three-way valve assembly from one perspective.

[0067] Figure 5 for Figure 2 A half-section diagram of the three-way valve assembly from another perspective.

[0068] Figure 6 This is an axial sectional view of another structure of the three-way valve assembly according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 7 for Figure 1 Block diagram of the control principle of a medium-sized water heater system.

[0070] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of the control method for a water heater system according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0071] The reference numerals in the figures include:

[0072] Three-way valve assembly 100

[0073] First water inlet 1001

[0074] Second water inlet 1002

[0075] Outlet 1003

[0076] Blocking mechanism 101

[0077] Blocking Unit 1011

[0078] Drive unit 1012

[0079] Water outlet barrel 102

[0080] Second water inlet cylinder 103

[0081] Bypass manifold 1030

[0082] First water inlet cylinder 104

[0083] Sealed end cap 105

[0084] Water flow sensor 106

[0085] Water Turbine 107

[0086] 108 unidirectional current stabilizer

[0087] Waveform spring current regulator 109

[0088] Built-in housing 110

[0089] Elongated segment 111

[0090] Depression 1110

[0091] Transition section 112

[0092] Connector segment 113

[0093] Separator 114

[0094] First Channel 120

[0095] Second Channel 130

[0096] First chamber 121

[0097] First chamber water inlet 1210

[0098] Second chamber 122

[0099] Second chamber water inlet 1220 water heater 200

[0100] Inlet end 201

[0101] Water outlet 202

[0102] Bypass pipe 203

[0103] Circulating pump 204

[0104] Heat exchanger 205

[0105] 300 cold water circulation pipe

[0106] 301 faucet

[0107] Water check valve 302

[0108] Water pipe 303

[0109] Water supply end 400

[0110] Control Unit 500

[0111] Water outlet status detection unit 510; water heater operating load detection unit 520; zero cold water function on / off detection unit 530; inlet water temperature detection unit 540

[0112] 550 outlet water temperature detection unit Detailed Implementation

[0113] The present invention will be further illustrated by way of embodiments below, but the present invention is not limited to the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0114] Example 1

[0115] This embodiment provides a water heater system, such as Figure 1-7 As shown, it includes a water heater 200, a bypass pipe 203, a zero cold water circulation pipe 300, an inlet water temperature detection unit 540, an outlet water temperature detection unit 550, a water heater operating load detection unit 520, a zero cold water function on / off detection unit 530, a water outlet status detection unit 510, a circulation pump 204, a control unit 500, and a three-way valve assembly 100.

[0116] The water outlet status detection unit 510 is used to detect the water outlet status at the water outlet. The water outlet status includes three states: hot water outlet, cold water outlet, and no water outlet. The water outlet status detection unit 510 can be implemented by installing a flow meter and a temperature sensor at the water outlet. When the flow rate at the water outlet is greater than a certain preset value, and the water temperature at the water outlet is higher than a certain preset hot water temperature, it indicates that the water outlet is in the hot water outlet state. When the flow rate at the water outlet is greater than a certain preset value, and the water temperature at the water outlet is lower than a certain preset value, it indicates that the water outlet is in the cold water outlet state. When the flow rate at the water outlet is zero, it indicates that the water outlet is in the no water outlet state.

[0117] The water heater operating load detection unit 520 is used to detect the operating load of the water heater 200.

[0118] The zero cold water function on / off detection unit 530 is used to detect the on / off status of the zero cold water function of the water heater 200.

[0119] A bypass pipe 203 is installed inside the water heater 200, and the two ends of the bypass pipe 203 are connected to the water inlet pipe and the water outlet pipe of the water heater 200, respectively.

[0120] A zero-cold-water circulation pipe 300 is installed outside the water heater 200, with its two ends connected to the water supply end 400 and the water outlet end 202 of the water heater 200, respectively. A one-way valve 302 is installed on the zero-cold-water circulation pipe 300, directing the flow from the water outlet end 202 to the water supply end 400 of the water heater 200. Several water pipes 303 are also connected in parallel to the zero-cold-water circulation pipe 300, with their two ends located on either side of the one-way valve 302. A faucet 301 is installed on each water pipe.

[0121] The three-way valve assembly 100 is installed on the inlet pipe of the water heater 200. The structure of the three-way valve assembly 100 is combined with... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, it includes a valve body with three ports: a first inlet 1001, a second inlet 1002, and an outlet 1003. (Combined with...) Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the first inlet 1001 is used to connect to the water supply end 400 of the water heater 200, the second inlet 1002 is used to connect to the bypass pipe 203, and the outlet 1003 is used to connect to the inlet port of the heat exchanger 205 of the water heater 200.

[0122] The circulating pump 204 is located downstream of the outlet 1003. When the user turns off the zero-cold-water function on the water heater 200, the circulation pump 204 is turned on. The circulation pump 204 is used to transport the water from the outlet port of the heat exchanger 205 of the water heater 200 through the bypass pipe 203 to the second inlet 1002 of the three-way valve assembly 100. The water flows from the second inlet 1002 of the three-way valve assembly 100 to the outlet 1003, thereby realizing the bypass circulation of the water heater 200, that is, the internal circulation of the water heater 200. When the user turns on the zero-cold-water function on the water heater 200, the circulation pump 204 is used to transport the water from the outlet port of the heat exchanger 205 of the water heater 200 through the zero-cold-water circulation pipe 300 to the first inlet 1001 of the three-way valve assembly 100. The water flows from the first inlet 1001 of the three-way valve assembly 100 to the outlet 1003, thereby realizing the zero-cold-water circulation of the water heater 200, that is, the external circulation of the water heater 200.

[0123] The inlet water temperature detection unit 540 is installed at the inlet 201 of the water heater 200 to detect the water temperature at the inlet 201. Specifically, the inlet water temperature detection unit 540 can be installed inside the three-way valve assembly 100. The inlet water temperature detection unit 540 is a temperature sensor. The inlet water temperature detection unit 540 is used to detect the water temperature inside the three-way valve assembly 100 when circulating within the water heater 200, and also when circulating outside the water heater 200.

[0124] The outlet water temperature detection unit 550 is installed at the outlet 202 of the water heater 200 to detect the water temperature at the outlet 202 of the water heater 200. The outlet water temperature detection unit 550 is also a temperature sensor.

[0125] The following combination Figure 2-6 The structure of the three-way valve assembly 100 is described in detail.

[0126] The valve body of the three-way valve assembly 100 has a first inlet cylinder 104, a second inlet cylinder 103, and an outlet cylinder 102. The first inlet cylinder 104, the second inlet cylinder 103, and the outlet cylinder 102 are all fixed in the middle of the valve body. In actual manufacturing, the first inlet cylinder 104, the second inlet cylinder 103, the outlet cylinder 102, and the middle of the valve body can be manufactured by an integral molding process, or they can be processed by welding and fixing the sub-components.

[0127] The valve body internally comprises a first channel 120, a second channel 130, a bypass channel, and a blocking mechanism 101. The first channel 120 connects the first inlet 1001 and the outlet 1003, and is a normally open channel. The second channel 130 also connects the first inlet 1001 and the outlet 1003. The bypass channel connects the second inlet 1002 and the outlet 1003. The blocking mechanism 101 can simultaneously block and open the second channel 130 and the bypass channel.

[0128] The inner wall of the first inlet cylinder 104 forms a first inlet cavity, and the inlet of the first inlet cavity forms the first inlet 1001 of the three-way valve assembly 100. The inner wall of the second inlet cylinder 103 forms a second inlet cavity, and the inlet of the second inlet cavity forms the second inlet 1002 of the three-way valve assembly 100. The inner wall of the outlet cylinder 102 forms an outlet cavity, and the outlet of the outlet cylinder 102 forms the outlet 1003 of the three-way valve assembly 100.

[0129] Valve body internal structure combination Figure 2-5 As shown, the valve body includes an outer shell and an inner housing 110 disposed on the inner wall of the outer shell.

[0130] The outer casing is roughly cylindrical in the middle, with an internal cavity. Both ends of the middle section of the outer casing are open; one end is used to install the sealing end cap 105 of the valve body, and the other end is used to install the sealing mechanism 101. The first inlet cylinder 104 and the outlet cylinder 102 are coaxially arranged, and their axes extend radially along the middle of the outer casing. The axis of the second inlet cylinder 103 also extends radially along the middle of the valve body, and the second inlet cylinder 103 is perpendicular to the first inlet cylinder 104 and the outlet cylinder 102.

[0131] The second water inlet chamber is equipped with a bypass check valve, which can prevent water from flowing directly from the first water inlet 1001 through the bypass pipe 203 to the water outlet pipe of the water heater 200.

[0132] The three-way valve assembly 100 also includes a flow detection unit, such as Figure 2 As shown, the flow detection unit includes a water turbine 107 and a water flow sensor 106. The water turbine 107 is disposed inside the first inlet cylinder 104, and the water flow sensor 106 is disposed on the outer side of the first inlet cylinder 104 corresponding to the water turbine 107. In other embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the water turbine 107 can be installed inside the water outlet cylinder 102, and the water flow sensor 106 is installed on the outer side of the water outlet cylinder 102 corresponding to the water turbine 107.

[0133] The inner housing 110 divides the inner cavity of the outer shell into a first chamber 121 and a second chamber 122. For example... Figure 5As shown, the outlet port of the second water inlet cylinder 103 is connected to the second chamber 122 through the bypass manifold 1030, so that the water in the second water inlet cylinder 103 can flow into the second chamber 122 through the bypass manifold 1030.

[0134] The inner shell 110 has an internal cavity. The inner shell 110 has a first inner shell inlet, a second inner shell inlet, and an inner shell outlet. The first inner shell inlet connects the first chamber 121 and the internal cavity, allowing water in the first chamber 121 to enter the internal cavity of the inner shell 110. The second inner shell inlet connects the second chamber 122 and the internal cavity, allowing water in the second chamber 122 to flow into the internal cavity of the inner shell 110. The inner shell outlet connects to the water outlet 1003, allowing water in the internal cavity of the inner shell 110 to flow into the water outlet cylinder 102.

[0135] The embedded housing 110 includes an elongated section 111, a transition section 112, a partition section 114, and a connecting section 113. The structure of the embedded housing 110 is as follows: Figure 3 , 4 As shown in Figure 5.

[0136] The elongated section 111 is a cylindrical structure with its axis coinciding with the axis of the first water inlet cylinder 104. One end of the elongated section 111 is open, and the other end is closed. The open end of the elongated section 111 extends into the first water inlet cylinder 104, thus forming a diversion unit capable of diverting the water flow within the first water inlet cavity. The diversion unit divides the first water inlet cavity into a first diversion channel and a second diversion channel. The space formed by the inner wall of the diversion unit is the second diversion channel, and the gap layer between the outer wall of the diversion unit and the inner wall of the first water inlet cylinder 104 is the first diversion channel.

[0137] A first chamber water inlet 1210 is provided between the first chamber 121 and the first branch channel. The first chamber water inlet 1210 is located on the side of the extended section 111 near the first chamber 121, so that water entering from the first branch channel can enter the first chamber 121 through the first chamber water inlet 1210. A second chamber water inlet 1220 is provided on the side wall of the extended section 111 located inside the second chamber 122. The second chamber water inlet 1220 is used to connect the second branch channel and the second chamber 122, so that water from the second branch channel can enter the second chamber 122 through the second chamber water inlet 1220.

[0138] The second diversion channel is equipped with a one-way flow stabilizing valve 108 to stabilize the water flow inside the second diversion channel. The end face of the closed end of the extension section 111 has a semi-cylindrical recess.

[0139] The extended section 111 has multiple recesses 1110 along its circumferential direction on the outer wall of the first inlet cylinder 104. Corresponding to the position of the recess 1110, a wave spring flow stabilizer 109 is also installed in the first diversion channel. The wave spring flow stabilizer 109 is attached between the outer wall of the extended section 111 and the inner wall of the first inlet cylinder 104. The recesses 1110 on the outer wall of the extended section 111 provide space for water flow. That is, the direction of water flow in the first diversion channel is that water flows in the recesses 1110 and flows from one side of the wave spring flow stabilizer 109 to the other side. Thus, the wave spring flow stabilizer 109 plays a role in stabilizing the water flow in the first diversion channel.

[0140] The transition section 112 is generally cylindrical, with openings at both ends. One end opens towards the first chamber 121, and the other end opens towards the second chamber 122. The inner wall of the transition section 112 forms a cylindrical cavity. This cylindrical cavity and the semi-cylindrical recess at the closed end of the elongated section 111 are located on the same virtual cylindrical surface. A section of the sidewall of the transition section 112 and the closed end of the elongated section 111 share a common sidewall. Water from the first chamber 121 and the second chamber 122 can enter the cavity inside the transition section 112 through the openings at both ends of the transition section 112.

[0141] One end of the connecting section 113 is fixedly connected to the side wall of the transition section 112, and the other end is fixedly connected to the top wall of the middle part of the valve body shell. The cylindrical cavity of the transition section 112 and the water outlet cylinder 102 are both connected to the internal cavity of the connecting section 113. One side wall of the connecting section 113 is open to connect to the first chamber 121. That is, the water in the first chamber 121 can directly enter the water outlet cylinder 102 through the connecting section 113. The water in the second chamber 122 can first enter the interior of the transition section 112, then pass through the interior of the connecting section 113, and finally flow into the water outlet cylinder 102.

[0142] Therefore, the transition section 112 and the connecting section 113 actually constitute a three-way structure. The opening end of the transition section 112 in the first chamber 121 and the opening on the side wall of the connecting section 113 constitute the first water inlet port (i.e., the first inner shell inlet of the embedded shell 110) of the three-way structure. The opening end of the transition section 112 in the second chamber 122 constitutes the second water inlet port (i.e., the second inner shell inlet of the embedded shell 110) of the three-way structure. The opening of the connecting section 113 facing the water outlet cylinder 102 constitutes the water outlet port (i.e., the inner shell outlet of the embedded shell 110) of the three-way structure. In this embodiment, the opening end of the transition section 112 in the first chamber 121 and the opening on the side wall of the connecting section 113 are connected to form a large opening, which is the first water inlet port of the three-way structure. In other embodiments, the opening end of the transition section 112 in the first chamber 121 or the opening on the side wall of the connecting section 113 can be closed, and only one of the two can be used as the first water inlet port of the three-way structure. This is not limited to this embodiment.

[0143] The dividing section 114 is used to fill the gap between the elongated section 111 and the connecting section 113 and the inner wall of the middle part of the valve body, thereby separating the first chamber 121 and the second chamber 122, and making the first chamber 121 and the second chamber 122 only able to communicate through the cylindrical cavity inside the transition section 112 and the cavity inside the connecting section 113.

[0144] Water flows into the first inlet cylinder 104 from the first inlet 1001, passes through the first branch channel, enters the first chamber 121 through the first chamber inlet 1210, then enters the internal cavity of the inner shell 110 through the first inner shell inlet, flows through the outlet cavity, and finally flows out from the outlet 1003. This water flow path constitutes the first channel 120 of the three-way valve assembly 100. The first channel 120 is a normally open channel and is a low-flow channel.

[0145] Water flows into the first inlet cylinder 104 from the first inlet 1001, flows through the second branch channel, enters the second chamber 122 through the second chamber inlet 1220, then enters the internal cavity of the inner shell 110 through the second inner shell inlet, flows through the outlet cavity, and finally flows out from the outlet 1003. This water flow path constitutes the second channel 130 of the three-way valve assembly 100. The second channel 130 is a high-flow channel, and the second inner shell inlet of the inner shell 110 can be closed or opened by the sealing mechanism 101, thereby closing or opening the second channel 130.

[0146] Water flows from the second inlet 1002 into the second inlet cylinder 103, then through the bypass manifold 1030 into the second chamber 122, and then through the second inner shell inlet of the inner shell 110 into the internal cavity of the inner shell 110, before flowing through the outlet cavity and finally out from the outlet 1003. This water flow path constitutes the bypass channel of the three-way valve assembly 100. Since the water in the bypass channel must pass through the second chamber 122 and then through the second inner shell inlet into the internal cavity of the inner shell 110 before entering the outlet cylinder 102, the bypass channel can also be closed or opened when the sealing mechanism 101 closes or opens the second inner shell inlet of the inner shell 110.

[0147] Reference Figure 3 The sealing mechanism 101 includes a sealing unit 1011 and a drive unit 1012. The drive unit 1012 drives the sealing unit 1011 to move linearly, thereby opening or closing the second inner shell inlet of the embedded housing 110. The sealing unit 1011 includes a diaphragm and a diaphragm support frame, with the diaphragm fixed to the diaphragm support frame. The drive unit 1012 includes a solenoid valve, the stroke rod of which can drive the diaphragm support frame to reciprocate linearly, thereby driving the diaphragm to open or close the second inner shell inlet of the embedded housing 110.

[0148] The control unit 500 is electrically connected to the sealing mechanism 101, the outlet water temperature detection unit 550, the inlet water temperature detection unit 540, the water heater operating load detection unit 520, the zero cold water function on / off detection unit 530, and the water outlet status detection unit 510.

[0149] In this embodiment, the electrical connection can be a wire connection or a wireless connection, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The control unit 500 adopts the control assembly found in the existing water heater 200.

[0150] The control unit 500 is used to control the water heater operating load detection unit 520 to detect the operating load of the water heater when the water outlet status detection unit 510 detects that the water outlet is in the hot water outlet state.

[0151] The control unit 500 is used to control the zero cold water function on / off detection unit 530 to detect the on / off status of the zero cold water function of the water heater when the water outlet status detection unit 510 detects that the water outlet is in a non-outflow state.

[0152] The control unit 500 is used to control the sealing mechanism 101 to open the second channel when the operating load of the water heater 200 is detected to be the minimum operating load, based on the water temperature value of the water outlet 202 of the water heater 200 detected by the water outlet temperature detection unit 550.

[0153] The control unit 500 is used to control the sealing mechanism 101 to close the second channel when the operating load of the water heater 200 is detected to be at its maximum load, based on the water temperature value of the water inlet 201 of the water heater 200 detected by the water inlet temperature detection unit 540.

[0154] The control unit 500 is used to control the blocking mechanism 101 to open the bypass channel and control the circulation pump 204 and the heat exchanger 205 of the water heater 200 to open for bypass circulation preheating when the operating load of the water heater 200 is detected to be between the minimum load and the maximum load, and the zero cold water function on / off detection unit 530 detects that the water heater 200 is in the zero cold water function off state, according to the water temperature value of the water inlet 201 of the water heater 200.

[0155] The control unit 500 is used to control the blocking mechanism 101 to close the bypass channel when the operating load of the water heater 200 is detected to be between the minimum load and the maximum load, and when the zero cold water function on / off detection unit 530 detects that the water heater 200 is in the zero cold water function on state, according to the water temperature value of the water outlet 202 of the water heater 200 detected by the water outlet water temperature detection unit 550, and to control the circulation pump 204 and the heat exchanger 205 of the water heater 200 to start zero cold water circulation preheating. After the zero cold water circulation preheating is completed, the control unit 500 controls the circulation pump 204 and the heat exchanger 205 of the water heater 200 to close, and then controls the blocking mechanism 101 to open the bypass channel according to the water temperature value of the water inlet 201 of the water heater 200 detected by the water inlet water temperature detection unit 540, and controls the circulation pump 204 and the heat exchanger 205 of the water heater 200 to start bypass circulation preheating.

[0156] Example 2

[0157] This embodiment provides a control method for a water heater system, which is used in the water heater system of Embodiment 1.

[0158] like Figure 8 As shown, the control method for a water heater system includes the following steps:

[0159] The system detects the water outlet status at the water outlet. If the water outlet is in the hot water outlet state, the system detects the water heater's operating load and determines the relationship between the detected water heater's operating load and the minimum and maximum operating loads. If the water outlet is not in the water outlet state, the system detects the on / off status of the water heater's zero cold water function.

[0160] If the water heater is operating at its minimum operating load, execute the first water flow control step for the water heater.

[0161] If the water heater is operating at its maximum load, execute the second water flow control step for the water heater.

[0162] If the water heater's zero cold water function is off, execute the water heater bypass circulation preheating step;

[0163] If the water heater's zero cold water function is enabled, the zero cold water circulation preheating step will be executed first, followed by the water heater bypass circulation preheating step.

[0164] Specifically, the first water flow control step of the water heater includes: when the water temperature at the outlet of the water heater is greater than the preset outlet temperature, the control sealing mechanism 101 opens the second channel 130. Especially in summer, when the water heater is running at minimum load, the outlet temperature is still higher than the preset outlet temperature. At this time, the control sealing mechanism 101 opens the second channel 130 to increase the water inflow of the water heater, thereby regulating the water heater to a constant temperature.

[0165] The second water flow control step for the water heater specifically includes: when the water temperature at the outlet of the water heater is lower than the preset outlet temperature, the control sealing mechanism 101 closes the second channel 130. Especially in winter, when the water heater is running at maximum load, the outlet temperature is still lower than the preset outlet temperature. At this time, the control sealing mechanism 101 closes the second channel 130, reducing the water inflow to the water heater, thereby regulating the water heater to maintain a constant temperature.

[0166] The bypass circulation preheating step of the water heater specifically includes: when the difference between the detected water temperature at the inlet of the water heater and the preset inlet temperature is greater than or equal to the preset inlet temperature difference (in this embodiment, the preset inlet temperature difference is set to 12℃), the circulation pump 204 and the heat exchanger 205 of the water heater are turned on to start bypass circulation preheating. When the detected water temperature at the inlet of the water heater reaches the preset inlet temperature, the circulation pump 204 and the heat exchanger 205 are stopped, and the blocking mechanism 101 is closed to shut off the bypass channel, thus ending the bypass circulation preheating. The stopping of the circulation pump 204 and the heat exchanger 205 can be done simultaneously, or the heat exchanger 205 can stop first, the circulation pump 204 can continue running for 5 seconds, and then the blocking mechanism 101 closes the bypass channel.

[0167] The bypass circulation preheating step of the water heater is typically applied during the period between when the user turns off the hot water and when the user turns it back on. After the user turns off the hot water for a period of time, when the water temperature at the inlet of the water heater meets the conditions for starting the bypass circulation preheating, bypass circulation preheating will begin, and no cold water will flow out when the user turns the hot water back on.

[0168] The specific steps of the zero-cold-water circulation preheating process for the water heater include: when the difference between the outlet water temperature and the preset outlet water temperature is detected to be greater than or equal to the preset outlet water temperature difference (in this embodiment, the preset inlet water temperature difference is set to 12℃), the blocking mechanism 101 is controlled to close the bypass channel, and the circulation pump 204 and the heat exchanger 205 of the water heater are controlled to start the zero-cold-water circulation preheating. After the circulation pump 204 runs for 1 minute, the water temperature value at the inlet of the water heater is collected every 1 second. When the water temperature value at the inlet of the water heater is greater than 25℃, and the water temperature value at the inlet of the water heater collected for five consecutive times shows an increasing trend, the circulation pump 204 and the heat exchanger 205 of the water heater are controlled to stop running, and the zero-cold-water circulation preheating ends.

[0169] If the water temperature at the inlet of the water heater meets the above-mentioned conditions for starting the bypass circulation preheating within 30 seconds after the zero cold water circulation preheating is completed, the water heater bypass circulation preheating will be carried out.

[0170] The zero-cold-water circulation preheating step of the water heater is usually performed before the user uses hot water for the first time. When the user needs hot water, they can turn on the zero-cold-water function on the water heater to perform zero-cold-water circulation preheating. After the zero-cold-water circulation preheating is completed, hot water will flow out immediately when the user turns on the hot water for the first time, and no cold water will flow out.

[0171] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, those skilled in the art should understand that these are merely illustrative examples, and the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. Those skilled in the art can make various changes or modifications to these embodiments without departing from the principles and essence of the present invention, but all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A three-way valve assembly for use in the internal circulation pipeline of a water heater, the internal circulation pipeline including a bypass pipe, the two ends of the bypass pipe being respectively connected to the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe of the water heater, the three-way valve assembly including a valve body, the valve body being provided with a first inlet, a second inlet and an outlet; Its features are, The valve body is internally provided with a first channel, a second channel, a bypass channel, and a sealing mechanism. The first channel is connected between the first inlet and the outlet, and the first channel is a normally open channel. The second channel is connected between the first inlet and the outlet, and the bypass channel is connected between the second inlet and the outlet. The blocking mechanism simultaneously blocks and opens the second channel and the bypass channel. The second channel has a confluence cavity, which is a shared part of the second channel and the bypass channel. The confluence cavity has a confluence outlet, which is connected to the outlet. The sealing mechanism seals the confluence outlet of the confluence cavity to simultaneously seal the second channel and the bypass channel. The valve body includes an outer shell and an inner shell disposed on the inner wall of the outer shell. The inner shell has an internal cavity. The inner shell has an inner shell inlet and an inner shell outlet that are connected to the internal cavity. The inner shell inlet constitutes the confluence outlet of the confluence cavity, and the inner shell outlet is connected to the outlet. The internal cavity also constitutes a shared part of the second channel and the bypass channel.

2. The three-way valve assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The outer shell forms an inner cavity, and the inner shell divides the inner cavity into a first chamber and a second chamber. The second chamber forms the confluence cavity. The inner shell is also provided with another inner shell inlet, which is used to connect the first chamber and the inner cavity. The first channel includes the first chamber, and the first chamber flows into the inner cavity through the other inner shell inlet.

3. The three-way valve assembly as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The valve body is provided with a first water inlet cylinder, the inner wall of the first water inlet cylinder surrounds to form a first water inlet cavity, the inlet of the first water inlet cavity forms the first water inlet of the valve body, and a diversion unit is provided in the first water inlet cavity, the diversion unit divides the first water inlet cavity into a first diversion channel and a second diversion channel, the first diversion channel is connected to the first chamber, and the second diversion channel is connected to the second chamber.

4. The three-way valve assembly as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The diversion unit is cylindrical, with one end of the diversion unit near the inlet of the first water inlet cavity being an open end and the other end near the outlet of the first water inlet cavity being a closed end. The space formed by the inner wall of the diversion unit is the second diversion channel, and the gap layer between the outer wall of the diversion unit and the inner wall of the first water inlet cylinder is the first diversion channel.

5. The three-way valve assembly as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The second diversion channel extends into the inner shell, and a second chamber inlet is provided on the side wall of the inner shell for connecting the second diversion channel and the second chamber; a first chamber inlet is provided on the common wall of the first diversion channel and the first chamber for connecting the first diversion channel and the first chamber.

6. The three-way valve assembly as described in claim 3, characterized in that, Both the first and second diversion channels are equipped with flow stabilizers.

7. The three-way valve assembly as described in claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The first diversion channel is equipped with a flow stabilizer, which is a wave spring flow stabilizer. The wave spring flow stabilizer is attached between the outer wall of the diversion unit and the inner wall of the first water inlet cylinder. The outer wall of the diversion unit is provided with a circumferential recess at the wave spring flow stabilizer. The two sides of the wave spring flow stabilizer are connected through the recess.

8. The three-way valve assembly as described in any one of claims 3-6, characterized in that, The valve body is provided with a second water inlet cylinder, the inner wall of the second water inlet cylinder surrounds to form a second water inlet cavity, the inlet of the second water inlet cavity forms the second water inlet of the valve body, and a bypass check valve is provided in the second water inlet cavity.

9. The three-way valve assembly as described in any one of claims 3-6, characterized in that, The three-way valve assembly further includes a flow detection unit, which includes a water turbine and a water flow sensor; the valve body is provided with a water outlet cylinder, the inner wall of which surrounds and forms a water outlet cavity, and the outlet of which forms the water outlet of the valve body; the water turbine is disposed inside the first water inlet cylinder or the water outlet cylinder, and the water flow sensor is disposed on the outer side of the first water inlet cylinder or the water outlet cylinder corresponding to the water turbine.

10. The three-way valve assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The blocking mechanism includes a blocking unit and a driving unit. The driving unit is used to drive the blocking unit to move linearly to open or close the outlet of the manifold.

11. A water heater system, characterized in that, Includes a water heater, bypass pipe, inlet water temperature detection unit, outlet water temperature detection unit, circulation pump, and control unit; The bypass pipe is installed inside the water heater, and its two ends are respectively connected to the water inlet pipe and the water outlet pipe of the water heater; The water inlet pipe of the water heater is provided with a three-way valve assembly as described in any one of claims 1-10, the first water inlet is used to connect to the water supply end of the water heater, the second water inlet is used to connect to the bypass pipe, and the water outlet is used to connect to the water inlet port of the heat exchanger of the water heater; The inlet water temperature detection unit is used to obtain the water temperature value at the inlet of the water heater; The outlet water temperature detection unit is used to obtain the water temperature value at the outlet of the water heater; The circulation pump is located at the inlet port of the heat exchanger of the water heater and downstream of the outlet of the three-way valve assembly. The circulation pump is used to transport the water from the outlet of the heat exchanger of the water heater through the bypass channel to the second inlet of the three-way valve assembly. The control unit is electrically connected to the sealing mechanism, the outlet water temperature detection unit, and the inlet water temperature detection unit; The control unit is used to detect that the water heater is operating at its minimum load when the water outlet is in a hot water state, and to control the sealing mechanism to open the second channel according to the water temperature value at the outlet of the water heater. The control unit is used to detect that the water heater is operating at its maximum load when the water outlet is in a hot water state, and to control the sealing mechanism to close the second channel according to the water temperature value at the outlet of the water heater. The control unit is used to control the blocking mechanism to open the bypass channel and control the water heater to perform bypass circulation preheating when the water outlet is in a non-outflow state, based on the water temperature value at the inlet of the water heater.

12. The water heater system as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The water heater system also includes a zero-cold-water circulation pipe, which is located outside the water heater and is connected at both ends to the water supply end and the water outlet end of the water heater, respectively. The circulating pump is also used to transport water from the heat exchanger outlet of the water heater through the zero cold water circulation pipeline to the first inlet of the three-way valve assembly. The control unit is used to control the bypass channel to close and control the water heater to perform zero cold water circulation preheating when the water outlet is in a non-outflow state, based on the water temperature value at the outlet of the water heater. Then, it controls the bypass channel to open and controls the water heater to perform bypass circulation preheating based on the water temperature value at the inlet of the water heater.

13. A control method for a water heater system, characterized in that, For the water heater system as described in claim 12, the control method includes: When the water outlet is in the hot water output state, the first water flow control step is executed; When the water outlet is in the hot water output state, execute the second water flow control step; When the water-using end is in a non-outflow state, the bypass circulation preheating control step is executed; The first water volume control step specifically includes: when the water temperature at the outlet of the water heater is detected to be greater than the preset outlet temperature value under the minimum load operation state, controlling the sealing mechanism to open the second channel; The second water volume control step specifically includes: when the water temperature at the outlet of the water heater is less than the preset outlet temperature when the water heater is operating at maximum load, controlling the sealing mechanism to close the second channel; The bypass circulation preheating control step specifically includes: when the difference between the water temperature at the inlet of the water heater and the preset inlet temperature is greater than or equal to a certain value, controlling the blocking mechanism to open the bypass channel and controlling the circulation pump and the heat exchanger of the water heater to run, and starting the bypass circulation preheating; when the water temperature at the inlet of the water heater reaches the preset inlet temperature, controlling the circulation pump and the heat exchanger of the water heater to stop running, and controlling the blocking mechanism to close the bypass channel, and the bypass circulation preheating ends.

14. The control method for a water heater system as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The control method further includes executing a zero-cold-water circulation preheating control step when the water-using end is in a non-outflow state, and the bypass circulation preheating control step is further included after the zero-cold-water circulation preheating control step. The zero-cold-water circulation preheating control specifically includes: When the user activates the zero-cold-water function of the water heater, and the difference between the outlet water temperature and the preset outlet water temperature is greater than or equal to a certain value, the bypass channel is closed, and the circulation pump and the heat exchanger of the water heater are started to begin zero-cold-water circulation preheating. The water from the outlet of the water heater flows through the zero-cold-water circulation pipe to the inlet of the water heater. When the zero-cold-water circulation preheating is completed, the circulation pump and the heat exchanger of the water heater are stopped.

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