Antifreeze device and water heater including the same

Abstract

The present invention discloses an antifreeze device and a water heater including the same, and relates to the technical field of water heaters. The antifreeze device includes a cavity, a valve core, and a limiting sleeve. The valve core includes a first end and a second end located inside and outside the cavity. A clamping portion is provided on the side wall of the valve core. The limiting sleeve is provided on the periphery of the valve core and fixed relative to the cavity. A limiting groove is provided on the side wall of the limiting sleeve. The limiting groove is provided with a first position and a second position. The clamping portion is clamped at the first position, and the limiting sleeve limits the valve core to allow water to flow through the cavity. When the valve core moves toward its second end, the valve core rotates relative to the limiting sleeve to drive the clamping portion to disengage from the first position. When the valve core moves toward its first end, the clamping portion moves to the second position in the limiting groove, so that the valve core closes the cavity. At this time, if the pipe in the water heater freezes and cracks, the antifreeze device can prevent water from entering the water heater, thereby avoiding losses and safety issues.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of water heaters, and in particular to an antifreeze device and a water heater comprising the same. Background Art

[0002] Household gas water heaters are generally connected to the outdoor environment through an exhaust pipe. In the cold winter, when the outdoor temperature is low, cold air can easily enter the water heater through the exhaust pipe, causing the water in the internal pipes of the water heater to freeze. Due to the increase in volume, the pipes are easily cracked. When the temperature rises, the ice in the pipes melts. If the user does not discover it in time and turns off the water inlet switch, it will cause property losses and safety problems such as water leakage of the entire machine, water soaking of the base plate, and electrical leakage.

[0003] To address this issue, gas water heaters installed in cold northern environments are often equipped with electric heaters to provide some degree of frost protection. However, electric heaters must be powered on to operate properly. If there is a power outage, such as when the user unplugs the power cord or a power outage occurs, the electric heater may not activate, causing the water heater pipes to freeze and crack. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the defect in the prior art that installing an electric heating device cannot completely solve the problem of water leakage caused by freezing and cracking of pipes in the water heater at low temperatures, and to provide an antifreeze device and a water heater containing the same.

[0005] The present invention solves the above technical problems through the following technical solutions:

[0006] The closure of the valve core is fixed to the closure member so that the closure member may be opened and closed by the spring, and the closure member may be opened by the spring when the closure member is opened.

[0007] In this embodiment, through this arrangement, during normal use of the water heater, the engaging portion engages the first position of the limiting groove on the limiting sleeve, limiting the valve core and preventing it from blocking the water flow. Water then flows normally through the cavity. When the outdoor temperature is low, cold air enters the water heater through the exhaust pipe, causing the water within the cavity to continuously freeze. As the frozen water increases in volume, it exerts an external force on the first end of the valve core, causing the valve core to move toward its second end. During this movement, the valve core simultaneously rotates relative to the limiting sleeve, utilizing the cooperation between the engaging portion and the limiting groove. During this process, the engaging portion first disengages from the first position of the limiting groove. When the outdoor temperature rises or the ice melts due to other reasons, the valve core moves toward its first end, and the engaging portion moves within the limiting groove to the second position within the limiting groove, driving the valve core to seal the cavity. At this time, if the pipes in the water heater have been frozen and cracked, the antifreeze device can prevent water from flowing into the water heater, thereby preventing the entire machine from leaking, causing property losses and safety problems such as water soaking of the bottom plate and electrical leakage.

[0008] Furthermore, the limiting groove includes a first guide surface, and the first guide surface is respectively provided with a first recessed portion and a second recessed portion at the first position and the second position, the first recessed portion and the second recessed portion are arranged at circumferential intervals on the side wall of the limiting sleeve, and the opening direction of the first recessed portion and the second recessed portion is consistent with the movement direction of the valve core toward its second end.

[0009] In this embodiment, the first and second recesses are arranged on the first guide surface corresponding to the first and second positions, respectively. When the valve core moves and rotates simultaneously relative to the limiting sleeve, the engaging portion moves within the limiting groove and rotates circumferentially, ultimately moving from the first recess to the second recess. Simultaneously, the openings of the first and second recesses allow the first and second recesses to hook onto the engaging portion similar to a hook, further satisfying the requirements of the limiting sleeve for limiting the valve core or the valve core for sealing the cavity.

[0010] Furthermore, a protrusion is provided on the first guide surface, and the protrusion is located between the first recessed portion and the second recessed portion; the limiting groove also includes a second guide surface, and when the valve core moves toward its second end, the clamping portion rotates in the limiting groove and jumps over the protrusion, so that when the valve core moves toward its first end, the clamping portion moves to the second position in the limiting groove.

[0011] In the present solution, through this arrangement, a protrusion is provided on the first guide surface between the first recess and the second recess. When the valve core moves toward its second end, the clamping portion on the valve core moves and rotates under the action of the second guide surface, so that the clamping portion can jump over the protrusion. At this time, when the valve core moves toward its first end, the valve core will no longer rotate, so the clamping portion will no longer return to the first recess in the first position in the clamping groove, but can move directly to the second recess in the second position, thereby ensuring the reliability of the use of the entire device.

[0012] Furthermore, the second guiding surface is an inclined surface, and the inclination direction is consistent with the movement direction of the valve core toward the second end thereof.

[0013] In this solution, through this arrangement, when the valve core moves toward its second end, the clamping portion on the valve core abuts against the inclined surface of the second guide surface, thereby ensuring that the valve core rotates while moving.

[0014] Furthermore, the antifreeze device also includes a deflection sleeve, which is arranged in the limit sleeve. When the valve core moves toward its second end, the second end of the valve core abuts against the deflection sleeve and is rotatable relative to the deflection sleeve.

[0015] In this solution, through this arrangement, the deflection sleeve is arranged inside the limit sleeve. When the valve core moves toward its second end, the second end of the valve core can abut against the deflection sleeve. The deflection sleeve makes it easier for the valve core to rotate relative to the limit sleeve during movement.

[0016] Furthermore, a first inclined sliding surface is provided at the second end of the valve core, and a second inclined sliding surface is provided at the end of the deflection sleeve. When the valve core moves toward its second end, the first inclined sliding surface abuts against the second inclined sliding surface, so that the valve core can rotate relative to the deflection sleeve.

[0017] In this solution, through this arrangement, when the second end of the valve core abuts against the deflection sleeve, the first inclined sliding surface and the second inclined sliding surface can cooperate with each other, and the sliding surface can be used to allow the valve core to rotate simultaneously during the linear motion process, and the structure is simple and reliable.

[0018] Furthermore, the antifreeze device also includes a first elastic member, which is arranged inside the deflection sleeve, and two ends of the first elastic member respectively abut against the end of the deflection sleeve where the second inclined sliding surface is set and the limiting sleeve.

[0019] In this solution, through this setting, the first elastic member is utilized to enable the deflection sleeve to move linearly inside the limit sleeve. When the valve core abuts against the deflection sleeve, the elastic force of the first elastic member is overcome, pushing the deflection sleeve to move linearly at the same time. The coordinated movement between the two is more elastic, thereby improving the service life of the overall device.

[0020] Furthermore, the antifreeze device also includes an extension sleeve, which is connected to the cavity and extends outward in the radial direction of the cavity. The valve core is arranged in the extension sleeve and is movable along the axial direction of the extension sleeve; the limit sleeve is connected to the extension sleeve and is fixed relative to the cavity through the extension sleeve.

[0021] In this solution, an extension sleeve is connected to the side wall of the cavity to limit the valve core within the extension sleeve, so that the movement of the valve core can follow a specific trajectory, and the valve core can be further prevented from detaching from the cavity during movement; on the other hand, the extension sleeve can also be connected to the limit sleeve to make the limit sleeve more convenient to fix relative to the cavity, so that the position of the limit groove on the limit sleeve will not move.

[0022] Furthermore, the antifreeze device also includes a second elastic member, which is arranged on the periphery of the valve core, and two ends of the second elastic member are respectively in contact with the first end of the valve core and the limiting sleeve.

[0023] In this solution, through this arrangement, when the outdoor temperature rises or the ice melts due to other reasons, the valve core can better move toward its first end, so that the clamping part moves to the second position in the limiting groove.

[0024] Furthermore, the interior of the cavity is provided with a first partition and a second partition at intervals along its radial direction, and a first flow opening and a second flow opening are formed between the first partition and the second partition and the side wall of the cavity respectively; the interior of the cavity is provided with a third partition along its axial direction, and a third flow opening is opened on the third partition, and the third partition is respectively connected to the first partition and the second partition, and the water flows through the first flow opening, the third flow opening and the second flow opening in the cavity in sequence.

[0025] In the present solution, through this arrangement, the water flow inside the cavity passes through the first flow port or the second flow port, and then flows out from the third flow port opened in the radial direction of the cavity. At this time, the valve core closing the cavity only needs to abut and seal against the third flow port. Compared with completely closing the cavity, it is simpler and more reliable, and during the normal use of the water heater, it will not hinder the flow of water in the cavity.

[0026] Furthermore, the antifreeze device also includes a reset member, a reset clip is provided at the end of the reset member, and a reset groove is provided on the second end of the valve core. The reset member can be inserted from the limit sleeve away from the end face of the valve core, so that the reset clip and the reset groove can rotate with each other after cooperating with each other.

[0027] In this solution, through this setting, the reset buckle at the end of the reset member can be directly inserted into the interior of the limit sleeve, and rotate after cooperating with the reset groove on the second end of the valve core. At the same time, the reset member can abut the reset groove, so that the limit part can move and rotate in the opposite direction, returning from the second position of the limit groove to the first position, restoring the normal flow of water, and realizing the state switching of the antifreeze device.

[0028] A water heater is characterized in that it comprises: a water heater body; and the antifreeze device as described above, wherein a water outlet of the antifreeze device is connected to a water inlet end of the water heater body.

[0029] In this solution, through this setting, the above-mentioned antifreeze device is applied to the water heater body, which effectively solves the defect that the electric heating device installed in the water heater cannot completely solve the problem of the pipes in the water heater freezing and cracking at low temperatures, thereby causing water leakage.

[0030] The positive progress effect of the present invention is:

[0031] During normal use of the water heater, the clamping portion engages the first position of the retaining groove on the retaining sleeve, restricting the valve core and preventing it from blocking water flow. Water then flows normally through the cavity. When the outdoor temperature is low, cold air enters the water heater through the exhaust pipe, causing the water inside the cavity to freeze. As the frozen water increases in volume, it exerts an external force on the first end of the valve core, forcing it to move toward its second end. During this movement, the valve core simultaneously rotates relative to the retaining sleeve, leveraging the clamping portion and the retaining groove. During this process, the clamping portion first disengages from the first position of the retaining groove. When the outdoor temperature rises or the ice melts due to other factors, the valve core moves toward its first end, and the clamping portion moves within the retaining groove to the second position, driving the valve core to seal the cavity. If the pipes within the water heater are frozen and cracked, the antifreeze device prevents water from entering the water heater, thereby preventing leakage that could cause property damage and safety issues such as floor soaking and electrical leakage. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the antifreeze device in Example 1 of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the overall structure of the antifreeze device in Example 1 of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure explosion of the antifreeze device in Example 1 of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the valve core and the limiting sleeve in Example 1 of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the valve core and the deflection sleeve in Example 1 of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 6 This is a structural schematic diagram of the valve core in Example 1 of the present invention (1).

[0038] Figure 7 This is a structural schematic diagram (2) of the valve core in Example 1 of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 8 This is a schematic structural diagram of the limiting sleeve in Example 1 of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the main structure of the limiting sleeve in Example 1 of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 10 Schematic diagram of the structure of the deflection sleeve in Example 1 of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the valve core and the limiting sleeve when the antifreeze device in Example 1 of the present invention is in the open state.

[0043] Figure 12 Schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the valve core and the limit sleeve of the antifreeze device in embodiment 1 of the present invention when in a transition state.

[0044] Figure 13 Schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the valve core and the limit sleeve when the antifreeze device in Example 1 of the present invention is in the closed state.

[0045] Description of reference numerals:

[0046] Antifreeze device 1

[0047] Cavity 100

[0048] First separator 110

[0049] Second partition 120

[0050] The third partition 130

[0051] The third flow opening 131

[0052] Spool 200

[0053] Valve core first end 210

[0054] Valve core second end 220

[0055] First inclined sliding surface 221

[0056] Reset groove 222

[0057] Clamping portion 230

[0058] Limit sleeve 300

[0059] Limiting groove 310

[0060] Second guide surface 320

[0061] raised portion 330

[0062] Limiting plate 340

[0063] First recessed portion 350

[0064] Second recessed portion 360

[0065] Connecting column 370

[0066] Deflection sleeve 400

[0067] Second inclined sliding surface 410

[0068] First elastic member 500

[0069] Extension sleeve 600

[0070] Second elastic member 700

[0071] Reset 800

[0072] Reset buckle 810

[0073] Screw 900 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] The following describes in detail embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are intended to be used to explain the present invention, and are not to be construed as limiting the present invention. All other embodiments obtained by persons of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0075] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "circumferential", "radial", etc., indicating the orientation or position relationship, are based on the orientation or position relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operate in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0076] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of the technical features being referred to. Thus, a feature identified as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of the present invention, "plurality" means two or more, unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0077] Example 1

[0078] This embodiment provides an antifreeze device 1, such as Figure 1 As shown, the antifreeze device 1, viewed from the outside as a whole, mainly includes a cavity 100, an extension sleeve 600 and a limit sleeve 300. The cavity 100 is a cylindrical tubular structure, mainly used for the passage of water. The extension sleeve 600 is also a cylindrical tubular structure. One end of the extension sleeve 600 along its axial direction is connected to the cavity 100. The extension sleeve 600 and the cavity 100 are combined to form a "T"-shaped structure. One end of the limit sleeve 300 is connected to the extension sleeve 600, and a limit plate 340 is provided at the other end. The main structure of the limit plate 340 and the limit sleeve 300 can be set as an integral whole, or they can be set separately and then assembled.

[0079] The antifreeze device 1 also includes a valve core 200, which includes a first end located in the cavity 100 and a second end located outside the cavity 100, and a clamping portion 230 is provided on the side wall of the valve core 200; a limiting sleeve 300 is sleeved on the periphery of the valve core 200 and fixed relative to the cavity 100, and a limiting groove 310 is provided on the side wall of the limiting sleeve 300, and the limiting groove 310 is provided with a first position and a second position; the clamping portion 230 is clamped at the first position, and the limiting sleeve 300 limits the valve core 200 to allow water to flow through the cavity 100; when the valve core 200 moves toward its second end, the valve core 200 rotates relative to the limiting sleeve 300 to drive the clamping portion 230 to disengage from the first position, and when the valve core 200 moves toward its first end, the clamping portion 230 moves to the second position in the limiting groove 310, so that the valve core 200 closes the cavity 100.

[0080] Specifically, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the valve core 200 is disposed inside the extension sleeve 600, the first end 210 of the valve core is located inside the cavity 100, and the second end 220 of the valve core is located outside the cavity 100. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the first end 210 of the valve core is a cylinder, and the outer diameter of the cylinder matches the inner diameter of the extension sleeve 600 to prevent the water inside the cavity 100 from flowing out of the extension sleeve 600. The second end 220 of the valve core is also a cylinder, but the outer diameter of the second end 220 of the valve core is smaller than the outer diameter of the first end 210 of the valve core. A clamping portion 230 is formed on the side wall of the second end 220 of the valve core, and the structure of the clamping portion 230 is a cylindrical structure. Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the overall structure of the limiting sleeve 300 is a circular cylindrical structure. The limiting sleeve 300 extends outward from the middle of its axial direction to form a connecting plate. The four corners of the connecting plate are provided with threaded holes. The connecting plate divides the limiting sleeve 300 into two parts. The part close to the valve core 200 is sleeved around the periphery of the valve core 200, specifically, the outer side wall of the second end 220 of the valve core, and the side wall of this part is provided with a limiting groove 310. The part away from the valve core 200 is surrounded by four connecting columns 370. One end of each of the four connecting columns 370 is connected to the connecting plate, and the other end is connected to the limiting plate 340, connecting the limiting plate 340 with the main structure of the extension sleeve 600, thereby forming a complete limiting sleeve 300 structure. A first position and a second position are provided on the limiting groove 310. The first position is provided with a first recessed portion 350, and the second position is provided with a second recessed portion 360. When the clamping portion 230 is clamped at the first position, the limiting sleeve 300 limits the valve core 200 so that water flows normally through the cavity 100. When the valve core 200 moves toward the direction of the second end 220 of the valve core, the valve core 200 rotates relative to the limiting sleeve 300 to drive the clamping portion 230 to disengage from the first position, and when the valve core 200 moves toward the direction of the first end 210 of the valve core, the clamping portion 230 moves to the second position in the limiting groove 310, so that the valve core 200 closes the cavity 100.

[0081] With this arrangement, when the water heater is in normal use, the engaging portion 230 engages with the first position of the limiting groove 310 on the limiting sleeve 300, limiting the valve core 200 and preventing it from blocking the water flow. Water then flows normally through the cavity 100. When the outdoor temperature is low, cold air enters the water heater through the exhaust pipe, causing the water inside the cavity 100 to freeze. As the frozen water expands in volume, it exerts an external force on the first end 210 of the valve core, causing the valve core 200 to move toward the second end 220. During this movement, the valve core 200 simultaneously rotates relative to the limiting sleeve 300, utilizing the cooperation between the engaging portion 230 and the limiting groove 310. During this process, the clamping portion 230 first disengages from the first position of the retaining groove 310. When the outdoor temperature rises or the ice melts due to other reasons, the valve core 200 moves toward the first end 210 of the valve core. The clamping portion 230 moves within the retaining groove 310 to the second position of the retaining groove 310, driving the valve core 200 to seal the cavity 100. At this time, if the pipes in the water heater have frozen and cracked, the antifreeze device 1 can prevent water from entering the water heater, thereby preventing the entire water heater from leaking and causing property damage and safety issues such as water soaking of the bottom plate and electrical leakage.

[0082] Furthermore, the limiting groove 310 includes a first guide surface, and the first guide surface is respectively provided with a first recessed portion 350 and a second recessed portion 360 at the first position and the second position. The first recessed portion 350 and the second recessed portion 360 are arranged at circumferential intervals on the side wall of the limiting sleeve 300, and the opening direction of the first recessed portion 350 and the second recessed portion 360 is consistent with the movement direction of the valve core 200 toward its second end.

[0083] Specifically, such as Figure 4 and Figure 9As shown, the limiting groove 310 includes a first guide surface, which is the side wall of the limiting groove 310 close to the valve core 200. The first recessed portion 350 and the second recessed portion 360 are respectively provided at the first position and the second position on the first guide surface. The opening direction of the first recessed portion 350 and the second recessed portion 360 on the side wall of the limiting sleeve 300 is consistent with the moving direction of the valve core 200 toward its second end. The first recess 350 and the second recess 360 are arranged parallel to each other along the axial direction on the sidewall of the limiting sleeve 300, and the distance between the first recess 350 and the end surface of the limiting sleeve 300 is greater than the distance between the second recess 360 and the end surface of the limiting sleeve 300. When the clamping portion 230 is clamped to the first recess 350 in the first position, the valve core 200 does not block the cavity 100, and water can flow normally through the cavity 100. When the clamping portion 230 is clamped to the second recess 360 in the second position, the overlap between the valve core 200 and the limiting sleeve 300 is reduced, thereby allowing the valve core 200 to block the cavity 100. With this arrangement, when the valve core 200 moves and rotates relative to the limiting sleeve 300, the clamping portion 230 moves within the limiting groove 310 and rotates circumferentially, ultimately moving from the first recess 350 to the second recess 360. At the same time, the openings of the first recessed portion 350 and the second recessed portion 360 are utilized so that the first recessed portion 350 and the second recessed portion 360 hook the clamping portion 230 in a form similar to a hook, further satisfying the limit sleeve 300 limiting the valve core 200 or the valve core 200 sealing the cavity 100.

[0084] Furthermore, a protrusion 330 is provided on the first guide surface, and the protrusion 330 is located between the first recessed portion 350 and the second recessed portion 360; the limiting groove 310 also includes a second guide surface 320, and when the valve core 200 moves toward its second end, the clamping portion 230 rotates in the limiting groove 310 and jumps over the protrusion 330, so that when the valve core 200 moves toward its first end, the clamping portion 230 moves to the second position in the limiting groove 310.

[0085] Specifically, such as Figure 4 and Figure 9As shown, since the first recessed portion 350 and the second recessed portion 360 are arranged in the same direction and are spaced apart along the circumferential direction on the side wall of the limiting sleeve 300, a protrusion 330 is provided between the first recessed portion 350 and the second recessed portion 360 in the circumferential direction of the limiting sleeve 300. The second guide surface 320 is opposite to the first guide surface in the limiting groove 310, that is, the second guide surface 320 is the side wall of the limiting groove 310 close to the valve core 200. When the valve core 200 moves toward the second end 220 of the valve core, the clamping portion 230 will first disengage from the first recessed portion 350 in the first position, and then abut against the second guide surface 320, and move under the action of the second guide surface 320, and jump over the raised portion 330 on the first guide surface during the movement. At this time, when the valve core 200 moves toward the first end 210 of the valve core, because the clamping portion 230 has jumped over the raised portion 330, it will not return to the first recessed portion 350 in the first position, but can move directly to the second recessed portion 360 in the second position, thereby ensuring the reliability of the use of the entire device.

[0086] Furthermore, the second guide surface 320 is an inclined surface, and the inclination direction is consistent with the movement direction of the valve core 200 toward its second end. Figure 4 and Figure 9 As shown, when the valve core 200 moves toward the second end 220 of the valve core, the engaging portion 230 abuts against the second guide surface 320. At this time, the inclination direction of the second guide surface 320 is exactly consistent with the movement direction of the valve core 200, so that the engaging portion 230 moves along the inclination direction of the second guide surface 320, thereby jumping over the protrusion 330. In this embodiment, the second position in the limiting groove 310 needs to be set according to actual needs, because it is necessary to ensure that when the engaging portion 230 is engaged with the second recessed portion 360 in the second position, the valve core 200 is located inside the cavity 100 and seals the cavity 100.

[0087] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the valve core 200 is rotatable relative to the limiting sleeve 300. This is intended to allow the valve core 200 to rotate within the limiting recess 310 of the limiting sleeve 300 when the limiting sleeve 300 is fixed relative to the cavity 100. This allows the valve core 200 to be engaged with the first recess 350 in the first position and the second recess 360 in the second position, respectively, under different conditions. Because the valve core 200 can only move linearly under the action of an external force, when the valve core 200 rotates relative to the limiting sleeve 300 during linear movement, it is equivalent to the valve core 200 rotating in a fixed direction. By cooperating with the first and second guide surfaces 320 within the limiting recess 310, the valve core 200 can engage with the first recess 350 in the first position and, after disengaging from the first recess 350, leap over the protrusion 330 to reach the second recess 360 in the second position, thereby achieving the corresponding effect.

[0088] In this embodiment, the solution for achieving the rotation of the valve core 200 relative to the limiting sleeve 300 is as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the antifreeze device 1 also includes a deflection sleeve 400, which is arranged in the limiting sleeve 300. When the valve core 200 moves toward its second end, the second end 220 of the valve core abuts against the deflection sleeve 400 and can rotate relative to the deflection sleeve 400.

[0089] Specifically, such as Figure 2 、 Figure 7 and Figure 10 As shown, the deflection sleeve 400 is arranged in the limit sleeve 300 and can move along the axial direction of the limit sleeve 300. A first inclined sliding surface 221 is provided at the second end of the valve core 200, and a second inclined sliding surface 410 is provided at one end of the deflection sleeve 400. When the valve core 200 moves toward its second end, the second end of the valve core 200 will abut on the deflection sleeve 400, that is, the first inclined sliding surface 221 and the second inclined sliding surface 410 will abut each other. The first inclined sliding surface 221 and the second inclined sliding surface 410 can cooperate with each other when abutting, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, when the second end 220 of the valve core abuts against the deflection sleeve 400, since the deflection sleeve 400 itself cannot rotate, during the process of the valve core 200 moving linearly toward the second end 220 of the valve core, the first inclined sliding surface 221 of the second end 220 of the valve core will rotate and slide under the action of the second inclined sliding surface 410 of the deflection sleeve 400, thereby driving the clamping part 230 on the valve core 200 to rotate and move in the limiting groove 310, and the structure is simple and reliable.

[0090] In this embodiment, a deflection sleeve 400 is provided, and the second inclined sliding surface 410 on the deflection sleeve 400 cooperates with the first inclined sliding surface 221 of the second end 220 of the valve core, thereby providing a rotational deflection force to the valve core 200. The component direction of this deflection force in the circumferential direction of the valve core 200 is from the first recessed portion 350 to the direction of the second recessed portion 360 (i.e. Figure 13 When the valve core 200 moves toward the second end 220 of the valve core, the valve core 200 tends to deflect downward, thereby driving the clamping portion 230 on the valve core 200 to have a downward deflection trend during the movement toward the second end 220 of the valve core, thereby ensuring that the clamping portion 230 can move closely against the second guide surface 320. When the valve core 200 moves toward the first end 210 of the valve core, the deflection sleeve 400 will not apply a deflection force to the valve core 200, and the valve core 200 will directly move to the second recessed portion 360 without returning to the first recessed portion 350.

[0091] Further, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the antifreeze device 1 also includes a first elastic member 500, which is disposed within the deflection sleeve 400. The first elastic member 500's two ends abut the end of the deflection sleeve 400 where the second inclined sliding surface 410 is provided, and the stop sleeve 300, respectively. In this embodiment, the first elastic member 500 is specifically a compression spring. Of course, other elastic structures may also be used in other embodiments. Through this arrangement, the first elastic member 500 enables the deflection sleeve 400 to move linearly within the stop sleeve 300. When the valve core 200 abuts the deflection sleeve 400, it overcomes the elastic force of the first elastic member 500, pushing the deflection sleeve 400 to move linearly at the same time. This makes the coordinated movement between the two more elastic, thereby increasing the service life of the entire device.

[0092] Further, such as Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the antifreeze device 1 further includes an extension sleeve 600, which is connected to the cavity 100 and extends outward in the radial direction of the cavity 100. The valve core 200 is disposed in the extension sleeve 600 and is movable in the axial direction of the extension sleeve 600. The limiting sleeve 300 is connected to the extension sleeve 600 and is fixed relative to the cavity 100 by the extension sleeve 600. Four threaded holes are formed at the end corners of the end surface of the extension sleeve 600 extending outward from the cavity 100. These four threaded holes correspond one-to-one to the four threaded holes on the connecting plate of the limiting sleeve 300 and are connected by screws 900, so that the limiting sleeve 300 and the extension sleeve 600 can be fixed. By providing the extension sleeve 600, the movement of the valve core 200 can be controlled along a specific trajectory, and the valve core 200 can be further prevented from being separated from the cavity 100 during movement. On the other hand, the extension sleeve 600 can be connected to the limiting sleeve 300 to more conveniently fix the limiting sleeve 300 relative to the cavity 100, thereby preventing the position of the limiting groove 310 on the limiting sleeve 300 from moving. Of course, in other embodiments, the extension sleeve 600 can be omitted, and the side wall of the valve core 200 can be directly connected to the cavity 100 and moved relative to the cavity 100. However, it should be noted that the valve core 200 should be prevented from being separated from the cavity 100 during movement.

[0093] Further, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the antifreeze device 1 further includes a second elastic member 700, which is disposed on the periphery of the valve core 200. The two ends of the second elastic member 700 abut the valve core first end 210 and the limiting sleeve 300, respectively. In this embodiment, when the outdoor temperature rises or the ice melts due to other reasons, the valve core 200 can better move toward the valve core first end 210, so that the clamping portion 230 moves to the second position within the limiting groove 310. In this embodiment, the second elastic member 700 is still a compression spring. In other embodiments, other elastic members can also be provided to enable the valve core 200 to better move toward the valve core first end 210.

[0094] Furthermore, the interior of the cavity 100 is provided with a first partition 110 and a second partition 120 at intervals along its radial direction, and a first flow opening and a second flow opening are formed between the first partition 110 and the second partition 120 and the side walls of the cavity 100, respectively; the interior of the cavity 100 is provided with a third partition 130 along its axial direction, and a third flow opening 131 is opened on the third partition 130, and the third partition 130 is respectively connected to the first partition 110 and the second partition 120, and the water flows through the first flow opening, the third flow opening 131 and the second flow opening in the cavity 100 in sequence.

[0095] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first baffle 110 and the second baffle 120 inside the cavity 100 are both arranged along the radial direction of the cavity 100, and the portions where the first baffle 110 and the second baffle 120 connect to the cavity 100 are located at positions opposite the sidewalls of the cavity 100. A first flow opening is formed between the first baffle 110 and the inner wall of the cavity 100, and a second flow opening is formed between the second baffle 120 and the inner wall of the cavity 100. The first flow opening and the second flow opening are arranged alternately inside the cavity 100. The third baffle 130 connects the first baffle 110 and the second baffle 120, and is provided with a third flow opening 131. This ensures that, under normal use of the water heater, if water enters from the first flow opening, it can only pass through the third flow opening and then the second flow opening. Alternatively, if water enters from the second flow opening, it can only pass through the third flow opening and then the first flow opening. Through this arrangement, the water flow inside the cavity 100 passes through the first flow port or the second flow port, and then flows out from the third flow port opened in the radial direction of the cavity 100. At this time, the valve core 200 only needs to abut against the third flow port to close the cavity 100. Compared with completely closing the cavity 100, it is simpler and more reliable, and during normal use of the water heater, it will not hinder the flow of water in the cavity 100.

[0096] In addition, the antifreeze device 1 in this embodiment also includes a reset member 800, a reset buckle 810 is provided at the end of the reset member 800, and a reset groove 222 is provided on the second end 220 of the valve core. The reset member 800 can be inserted from the limit sleeve 300 away from the end face of the valve core 200, so that the reset buckle 810 and the reset groove 222 can rotate with each other after cooperating with each other.

[0097] Specifically, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the reset member 800 is a rod-shaped structure, and a reset buckle 810 is provided at one end of the rod-shaped structure, and the reset buckle 810 is perpendicular to the extension direction of the rod-shaped structure. A through hole is provided on the limit plate 340 of the limit sleeve 300, so that the end of the reset member 800 with the reset buckle 810 can pass through the through hole and extend to the second end of the valve core 200. Figure 7 As shown, a reset groove 222 is provided on the end surface of the second end 220 of the valve core. The reset rod and the reset clip 810 at its end can be inserted into the reset groove 222 together to achieve mutual engagement. After engagement, the reset member 800 can be rotated, and the reset member 800 can abut the valve core 200 in the reset groove 222, so that the clamping portion 230 can move and rotate in the opposite direction, returning from the second position of the limiting groove 310 to the first position, restoring normal water flow and achieving state switching of the antifreeze device 1. The reset rod can be provided separately from the other components of the antifreeze device 1, and then inserted into the second end 220 of the valve core for reset when needed. The reset rod can also be provided integrally with the other components of the antifreeze device 1, so that the movement or rotation of the valve core 200 drives the reset member 800 to move or rotate simultaneously.

[0098] The following combination Figure 11 、 Figure 12 and Figure 13 The working process of the antifreeze device 1 is introduced as a whole:

[0099] Figure 11 、 Figure 12 and Figure 13 Schematic diagrams of the assembly structures of the valve core 200 and the limiting sleeve 300 of the antifreeze device 1 in the open state, the transition state and the closed state respectively.

[0100] like Figure 11 As shown, when the water heater is in normal use, the clamping portion 230 on the valve core 200 is clamped at the first position of the limiting groove 310 on the limiting sleeve 300, and the first recessed portion 350 at the first position overcomes the elastic force of the second elastic member 700, preventing the valve core 200 from moving toward the inside of the cavity 100 and sealing the third flow port 131. At this time, water flows normally through the cavity 100.

[0101] like Figure 12As shown, when the outdoor temperature is low, cold air enters the interior of the water heater along the exhaust pipe, causing the water inside the cavity 100 to freeze continuously. Since the volume of water increases after freezing, an external force is applied to the first end 210 of the valve core at the third flow port 131, prompting the valve core 200 to move toward the second end 220 of the valve core. During the movement, the second elastic member 700 is compressed, and the second end 220 of the valve core abuts the deflection sleeve 400 inside the limit sleeve 300. The elastic force applied by the first elastic member 500 to the deflection sleeve 400 will not separate from the second end 220 of the valve core. Therefore, during the continuous movement of the valve core 200, the first inclined sliding surface 221 of the second end 220 of the valve core and the second inclined sliding surface 410 on the deflection sleeve 400 cooperate with each other, so that the valve core 200 can rotate while moving linearly. During this process, the clamping portion 230 first disengages from the first recessed portion 350 in the first position in the limiting groove 310, then abuts against the second guide surface 320, and under the action of the second guide surface 320, jumps over the raised portion 330 on the first guide surface and reaches the bottom end of the second guide surface 320.

[0102] like Figure 13 As shown, when the outdoor temperature rises or the ice melts due to other reasons, the pressure on the first end 210 of the valve core decreases, and the valve core 200 begins to move toward the first end 210 of the valve core under the elastic force of the second elastic member 700. At this time, the second end 220 of the valve core gradually separates from the deflection sleeve 400, that is, it will no longer rotate relative to the deflection sleeve 400. Therefore, the valve core 200 can only move linearly in the direction of the first end 210 of the valve core, and the clamping portion 230 on the second end 220 of the valve core will directly move to the second position of the limiting groove 310, and will not return to the first position of the limiting groove 310. When the clamping portion 230 reaches the second position of the limiting groove 310, it is limited by the second recessed portion 360 at the second position. At this time, the first end 210 of the valve core is completely in contact with the third flow port 131, thereby sealing the third flow port 131. At this time, if the pipe in the water heater has been frozen and cracked, the antifreeze device 1 can prevent water from entering the water heater, thereby avoiding water leakage of the entire machine, causing property losses and safety problems such as water soaking of the bottom plate and electrical leakage. This embodiment also provides a water heater, which uses the antifreeze device 1 as described above. The water outlet of the antifreeze device 1 is connected to the water inlet of the water heater body, which can effectively solve the defect that the installation of an electric heating device in the water heater cannot completely solve the problem of water leakage caused by the freezing and cracking of the pipe in the water heater at low temperatures.

[0103] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, those skilled in the art will appreciate that these are merely illustrative and that the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. Those skilled in the art may make various changes or modifications to these embodiments without departing from the principles and essence of the present invention, and such changes and modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An antifreeze device, characterized in that: The antifreeze device comprises: a cavity, the cavity being used for passage of water; a valve core, the valve core comprising a first end located in the cavity and a second end located outside the cavity, and a clamping portion being provided on a side wall of the valve core; A limiting sleeve, the limiting sleeve is arranged on the periphery of the valve core and fixed relative to the cavity, a limiting groove is provided on the side wall of the limiting sleeve, and the limiting groove is provided with a first position and a second position; The clamping portion is clamped at the first position, and the limiting sleeve limits the valve core to allow water to flow through the cavity; when the valve core moves toward its second end, the valve core rotates relative to the limiting sleeve to drive the clamping portion to disengage from the first position, and when the valve core moves toward its first end, the clamping portion moves to the second position in the limiting groove, so that the valve core closes the cavity.

2. The antifreeze device according to claim 1, characterized in that The limiting groove includes a first guide surface, and the first guide surface is respectively provided with a first recessed portion and a second recessed portion at the first position and the second position. The first recessed portion and the second recessed portion are circumferentially spaced apart on the side wall of the limiting sleeve, and the opening direction of the first recessed portion and the second recessed portion is consistent with the movement direction of the valve core toward its second end.

3. The antifreeze device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first guide surface is further provided with a raised portion, and the raised portion is located between the first recessed portion and the second recessed portion; The limiting groove also includes a second guide surface. When the valve core moves toward its second end, the clamping portion rotates in the limiting groove and jumps over the protrusion, so that when the valve core moves toward its first end, the clamping portion moves to the second position in the limiting groove.

4. The antifreeze device according to claim 3, characterized in that The second guiding surface is an inclined surface, and the inclination direction is consistent with the movement direction of the valve core toward the second end thereof.

5. The antifreeze device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The antifreeze device also includes a deflection sleeve, which is arranged in the limit sleeve. When the valve core moves toward its second end, the second end of the valve core abuts against the deflection sleeve and is rotatable relative to the deflection sleeve.

6. The antifreeze device according to claim 5, characterized in that The second end of the valve core is provided with a first inclined sliding surface, and the end of the deflection sleeve is provided with a second inclined sliding surface. When the valve core moves toward its second end, the first inclined sliding surface abuts against the second inclined sliding surface, so that the valve core can rotate relative to the deflection sleeve.

7. The antifreeze device according to claim 6, characterized in that The antifreeze device further includes a first elastic member, which is arranged inside the deflection sleeve. Two ends of the first elastic member respectively abut against the end of the deflection sleeve where the second inclined sliding surface is arranged and the limiting sleeve.

8. The antifreeze device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The antifreeze device further includes an extension sleeve, the extension sleeve is connected to the cavity and extends outward in the radial direction of the cavity, the valve core is arranged in the extension sleeve and is movable along the axial direction of the extension sleeve; The limiting sleeve is connected to the extending sleeve and is fixed relative to the cavity through the extending sleeve.

9. The antifreeze device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The antifreeze device further includes a second elastic member, which is arranged on the periphery of the valve core. Two ends of the second elastic member are respectively in contact with the first end of the valve core and the limiting sleeve.

10. The antifreeze device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A first baffle and a second baffle are provided in the cavity along a radial direction thereof, and a first flow opening and a second flow opening are formed between the first baffle and the second baffle and the side wall of the cavity, respectively. A third partition is provided inside the cavity along its axial direction, and a third flow opening is provided on the third partition. The third partition is connected to the first partition and the second partition respectively, and water flows through the first flow opening, the third flow opening and the second flow opening in the cavity in sequence.

11. The antifreeze device according to claim 1, wherein: The antifreeze device also includes a reset member, a reset buckle is provided at the end of the reset member, and a reset groove is provided on the second end of the valve core. The reset member can be inserted from the end face of the limit sleeve away from the valve core, so that the reset buckle and the reset groove can rotate with each other after cooperating with each other.

12. A water heater, characterized in that: The water heater comprises: Water heater body; The antifreeze device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the water outlet of the antifreeze device is connected to the water inlet end of the water heater body.

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