Water flow sensor and water heater

Abstract

The present invention provides a water flow sensor and a water heater. The water flow sensor includes: a water valve body, the water valve body is provided with a water flow channel, the water flow channel has a water inlet and a water outlet, the water valve body is further provided with a valve port connected to the water flow channel, the valve port is located between the water inlet and the water outlet; a valve assembly is provided at the valve port and connected to the water valve body, is used to open or close the valve port, and defines a water flow channel between the valve body and the water valve body when the valve port is open, and the two ends of the water flow channel are respectively connected to the water inlet and the water outlet. The present invention integrates a stop valve on the basis of the water flow sensor, so that the water flow sensor has the functions of sensing water flow and regulating water flow, thereby eliminating the water regulating valve in the prior art, saving the space occupied by the water regulating valve near the pipe of the water heater, and eliminating the connection structure between the water regulating valve and the pipe, thereby saving space, simplifying the product structure, and further reducing production costs.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent with application date of November 29, 2019, application number 201911207093.4, and invention name “Automatic water regulating water flow sensor with flow stabilization function”. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to the technical field of water heaters, and in particular to a water flow sensor and a water heater comprising the water flow sensor. Background Art

[0003] Water heaters in the related art are generally equipped with a water flow sensor and a water regulating valve. The water flow sensor detects the water flow, and the water regulating valve adjusts the water volume. Because the water flow sensor and the water regulating valve are connected in series to the water heater pipe, they take up a lot of space and have a complex connection structure. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In order to solve at least one of the above technical problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a water flow sensor.

[0005] Another object of the present invention is to provide a water heater comprising the above-mentioned water flow sensor.

[0006] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the technical solution of the first aspect of the present invention provides a water flow sensor, including: a water valve body, the water valve body is provided with a water flow channel, the water flow channel has a water inlet and a water outlet, the water valve body is also provided with a valve port connected to the water flow channel, the valve port is located between the water inlet and the water outlet; a valve assembly, arranged at the valve port and connected to the water valve body, used to open or close the valve port, and when the valve port is opened, a water flow channel is defined between the water valve body and the water valve body, and the two ends of the water flow channel are respectively connected to the water inlet and the water outlet.

[0007] The water flow sensor provided by the technical solution of the first aspect of the present invention has a valve assembly added to the water valve body, and the water volume is adjusted by using the cooperation of the valve assembly and the water valve body, which is equivalent to integrating a stop valve on the basis of the water flow sensor, so that the water flow sensor has the functions of sensing water flow and regulating water flow, thereby eliminating the water regulating valve in the prior art, saving both the space occupied by the water regulating valve near the pipe of the water heater and the connection structure between the water regulating valve and the pipe, which is beneficial to saving space, simplifying the product structure, and thus helping to reduce production costs.

[0008] Specifically, the water flow sensor includes a water valve body and a valve assembly. The water valve body is provided with a water flow channel, and the water flow channel has a water inlet and a water outlet. Water flowing into the water flow sensor enters the water valve body through the water inlet and flows out of the water valve body through the water outlet. The water valve body is also provided with a valve port, and the valve port is located between the water inlet and the water outlet. The valve port is used to cooperate with the valve assembly to define a water flow channel to increase the flow rate, or to be closed by the valve assembly to reduce the flow rate, thereby achieving a flow regulation function. Specifically, when the valve assembly closes the valve port, water entering the water valve body from the water inlet can only reach the water outlet through the water flow channel and flow out. When the valve assembly opens the valve port, a water flow channel is defined between the valve assembly and the water valve body. Since the two ends of the water flow channel are connected to the water inlet and the water outlet, respectively, water entering the water valve body from the water inlet can be divided into two paths: one path reaches the water outlet through the water flow channel and flows out, and the other path reaches the water outlet through the water channel and flows out. Compared with the case where the valve assembly closes the valve port, the water flow rate is increased. Therefore, when the valve assembly closes the valve port, the water flow sensor switches to low water mode, enabling low-flow water supply, which helps maintain the outlet water temperature under low-temperature conditions. When the valve assembly opens the valve port, the water flow sensor switches to high water mode, enabling high-flow water supply, which helps meet high-flow water demand under high-temperature conditions. Because the water flow sensor and the water control valve are integrated into one unit, they save space and simplify the structure. Furthermore, compared to water proportional valve-type water control structures, this solution is less expensive. Compared to memory alloy structures, this solution also produces less noise, and the water flow rate is not limited by the memory alloy structure.

[0009] It is understandable that the flow detection mechanism of the water flow sensor can be partially arranged inside the water valve body, or can be completely arranged outside the water valve body, such as in a pipe joint connected to the water inlet.

[0010] In addition, the water flow sensor in the above technical solution provided by the present invention may also have the following additional technical features:

[0011] In the above technical solution, the valve assembly includes: a seal, which is arranged at the valve port and is suitable for defining a water passage between the seal and the water valve body when the valve assembly opens the valve port; a valve, which is connected to the water valve body and cooperates with the seal to open or close the valve port.

[0012] The valve assembly includes a seal and a valve. The seal is located at the valve port and can fit tightly with the water valve body to ensure the sealing reliability of the valve assembly to the valve port; the valve is connected to the water valve body to ensure the assembly stability of the valve assembly and the water valve body, and cooperates with the seal to ensure that the valve assembly can achieve the shut-off function.

[0013] In the above technical solution, a water-containing cavity is enclosed between the valve and the sealing member, and a pressure relief hole and a water through hole are provided on the sealing member. The pressure relief hole is correspondingly connected to the valve port and is connected to the water-containing cavity, and the water through hole is connected to the water-containing cavity and the water inlet;

[0014] The water valve body is provided with a water through port, which is located on the upstream side of the valve port; the sealing member is provided with a water through hole corresponding to the water through port to connect the water containing cavity and the water inlet.

[0015] The cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the pressure relief hole away from the valve is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the pressure relief hole close to the valve.

[0016] A water-receiving chamber is defined between the valve and the seal. The chamber communicates with the water inlet of the water valve body via a water hole in the seal and a water port in the water valve body. The valve port is located downstream of the water port and is therefore connected to the water outlet. When the valve assembly is closed, the side of the seal facing away from the valve port communicates with the water inlet, while the side of the seal facing the valve port communicates with the water outlet. Because the inlet pressure is greater than the outlet pressure, the pressure differential across the seal presses the seal tightly against the water valve body and makes it less susceptible to changes in water pressure, significantly improving the valve assembly's sealing reliability against the valve port. This also reduces the force exerted by the valve on the seal, thereby lowering the power requirements for the valve, helping to reduce costs and extend service life. When the valve assembly is open, the water port forms the entrance to the water passage, while the valve port forms the exit from the water passage. Water flows through the water port into the water passage, then through the valve port into the water valve body, and finally out through the water outlet.

[0017] In the above technical solution, a pressure relief hole corresponding to the valve port is provided on the sealing member; a part of the valve is suitable for moving relative to the sealing member to open or close the pressure relief hole, and when the pressure relief hole is opened, the sealing member opens the valve port and defines a water passage between the sealing member and the water valve body.

[0018] A pressure relief hole is provided at the position of the sealing member corresponding to the valve port. Since the pressure relief hole is connected to the water flow channel, when the valve opens the pressure relief hole, the pressure relief hole is instantly connected to the water containing chamber and the water outlet, so that the water pressure in the water containing chamber drops rapidly, and the force balance of the sealing member is broken. Under the action of the water inlet pressure, the sealing member at least partially moves in the direction away from the valve port, thereby opening the valve port and defining a water flow channel between the sealing member and the water valve body.

[0019] In the above technical solution, in the projection along the axis of the valve port, the pressure relief hole is located on the inner side of the valve port, and the water through hole is located on the outer side of the valve port.

[0020] In the above technical solution, the outer periphery of the seal is fixed on the water valve body; the middle part of the seal is suitable for deformation to open the valve port when the pressure relief hole is opened and define a water passage between the seal and the water valve body.

[0021] The outer periphery of the seal is fixed on the water valve body, and the deformation of the middle part of the seal is used to ensure that a water passage is formed between the seal and the water valve body. Compared with the solution of opening the valve port by the overall displacement of the seal, this can prevent the seal from repeatedly moving during use, causing displacement, misalignment, etc., thereby improving the stability of the seal position and thus improving the reliability of the valve assembly.

[0022] In the above technical solution, the outer periphery of the sealing member is pressed and fixed on the water valve body by the valve.

[0023] The outer periphery of the seal is pressed against the water valve body by utilizing the fixed part of the valve, which not only ensures the stability of the seal position but also does not require other components for fixing the seal. The structure is simple and the design is ingenious.

[0024] In the above technical solution, a sealing groove is provided on the water valve body, and the outer periphery of the seal is embedded in the sealing groove; the water valve body is also provided with an annular protrusion, and a part of the valve is inserted into the annular protrusion and abuts against the outer periphery of the seal.

[0025] The sealing groove on the water valve body not only serves as a positioning function during assembly, facilitating quick assembly of the seal, but also acts as a limiter after assembly to prevent the seal from moving, thereby improving the stability of the seal's position. The water valve body is also provided with an annular protrusion, which not only serves as a positioning function during assembly, facilitating quick assembly of the valve, but also acts as a limiter after assembly to prevent the valve from moving, thereby improving the stability of the valve's position.

[0026] In any of the above technical solutions, the sealing member includes: a sealing gasket, which is engaged with the valve mouth and is suitable for defining a water passage between the water valve body; and a support member, which is connected to the sealing gasket and is located between the valve and the sealing gasket, and is used to support the sealing gasket and cooperate with the valve.

[0027] The seal includes a gasket and a support member. The gasket can fit tightly with the water valve body to play a sealing role. The support member is connected to the gasket and is located between the valve and the seal. When subjected to the force of the valve, it can play a strong supporting role for the gasket, preventing the gasket from being deformed or shifted under the action of water pressure, thereby improving the reliability of the gasket. At the same time, it is also beneficial to reduce the size of the matching part between the valve and the seal, thereby simplifying the structure of the valve; and it is beneficial to increase the size of the valve port to increase the flow rate under high water conditions. Of course, the support member can also be omitted and only the gasket can be provided. For example, when the valve port is small or the size of the matching part between the valve and the seal is relatively large, omitting the support member can also ensure the reliability of the gasket.

[0028] In the above technical solution, the support member includes: a support body, which is in contact with the sealing gasket; and a connecting part, which is connected to the support body, and one end of the connecting part is connected to the sealing gasket, and the other end of the connecting part is matched with the valve.

[0029] The support member includes a support body and a connecting portion. The support body is in contact with the sealing gasket and provides support for the sealing gasket. The connecting portion is connected to the support body, and one end of the connecting portion is connected to the sealing gasket to ensure the assembly and fixation of the support member and the sealing member. The other end of the connecting portion is engaged with the valve to ensure the functional coordination between the sealing member and the valve. Specifically, one end of the connecting portion can be connected to the sealing gasket through a snap fit, interference fit, injection molding, or other methods.

[0030] In the above technical solution, the connecting portion passes through the sealing gasket, and the pressure relief hole is provided on the connecting portion.

[0031] The connecting portion passes through the sealing gasket and is provided with a pressure relief hole, which ensures that the sealing member can achieve reliable sealing by utilizing water pressure and can be deformed by utilizing water pressure to form a water passage.

[0032] In the above technical solution, the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the connecting portion away from the valve is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the connecting portion close to the valve.

[0033] The cross-sectional area of ​​the connection portion at the end away from the valve is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection portion at the end closer to the valve, which helps reduce the size of the area where the valve and seal meet, thereby simplifying the valve structure. This also helps reduce the size of the port facing the valve, making it easier to seal the pressure relief hole and further simplifying the valve structure.

[0034] In the above technical solution, the outer periphery of the support body is located inside the outer periphery of the sealing gasket.

[0035] The outer periphery of the support body is located inside the outer periphery of the sealing gasket, so the outer periphery of the sealing gasket protrudes from the support body. In this way, the outer periphery of the sealing gasket can be fixed to the water valve body to ensure the stability of the seal. The support body can be displaced to ensure that the middle part of the sealing gasket can deform, thereby opening the valve port and forming a water passage between the sealing gasket and the water valve body. This helps to reduce the difficulty of deformation of the sealing gasket, thereby ensuring smooth opening of the valve port.

[0036] In the above technical solution, the supporting member is a plastic member.

[0037] The support member is a plastic member, which is easy to be processed into a desired shape according to demand, has a certain strength to ensure reliable support for the sealing gasket, and has a low cost.

[0038] In the above technical solution, a first elastic member is further provided between the valve and the support member, and both ends of the first elastic member respectively abut against the fixed parts of the support member and the valve.

[0039] A first elastic member is provided between the valve and the support member, and the elastic force of the first elastic member can be utilized to further improve the stability of the seal position. Specifically, the first elastic member is a spring, and the support member is provided with a limiting groove, and one end of the spring is limited in the limiting groove to improve the position stability of the spring.

[0040] In any of the above technical solutions, the valve is an electrically controlled valve.

[0041] The valve adopts an electric control valve, which is convenient for automatic control, thereby improving user comfort.

[0042] In the above technical solution, the valve includes: an electromagnetic coil; and an iron core inserted in the electromagnetic coil, suitable for moving along the axis of the electromagnetic coil and cooperating with the sealing member.

[0043] The valve includes an electromagnetic coil and an iron core. The valve operation can be controlled by controlling the on and off power of the electromagnetic coil, which is conducive to simplifying the control program. Furthermore, the iron core and the sealing member are in a stop-and-go fit, and the sealing reliability of the sealing member is ensured by using water pressure.

[0044] In the above technical solution, the valve further includes: a conduit, the electromagnetic coil is sleeved on the outside of the conduit, and the iron core is inserted into the conduit.

[0045] The valve also includes a conduit, with an iron core inserted within the conduit and an electromagnetic coil sleeved outside the conduit. The iron core can move along the conduit, thereby guiding and limiting the iron core, thereby improving its reliability. The conduit also isolates the electromagnetic coil, thereby improving its reliability. It is understood that a protective layer may be provided on the surface of the electromagnetic coil, the outer surface of the iron core, and the inner surface of the conduit to prevent water corrosion, which could cause damage, malfunction, or the generation of harmful substances.

[0046] In the above technical solution, the catheter includes a tube body with an open end and a support cover connected to the open end of the tube body. The support cover abuts against the outer periphery of the seal, and the electromagnetic coil is sleeved on the outside of the tube body.

[0047] The conduit comprises a tube body and a support cover. One end of the tube body is open, allowing the iron core to be inserted and the electromagnetic coil to be sheathed, thereby assembling the iron core and electromagnetic coil. The support cover is connected to the open end of the tube body and abuts against the outer periphery of the sealing member, securing the sealing member. Furthermore, a water-receiving cavity is defined between the support cover and the sealing member, and a first elastic member is supported between the support cover and the support member.

[0048] In the above technical solution, the valve further includes: a magnetic conductive sleeve, which is sleeved on the conduit and located on the inner side of the electromagnetic coil.

[0049] The valve further comprises a second elastic member which is arranged in the conduit, and two ends of the second elastic member respectively abut against the conduit and an end of the iron core away from the sealing member.

[0050] The valve also includes a magnetic sleeve, which is arranged on the conduit, which is beneficial to improving the matching reliability of the electromagnetic coil and the iron core, thereby improving the reliability of the valve.

[0051] A second elastic member is provided within the conduit, and the elastic force of the second elastic member can be utilized to further improve the stability of the iron core position. Specifically, the second elastic member is a spring, and a limiting boss is provided at one end of the iron core near the second elastic member. One end of the spring is sleeved on the limiting boss to improve the position stability of the spring.

[0052] In the above technical solution, the valve further comprises: a sealing component, which is arranged at one end of the iron core facing the sealing member.

[0053] The sealing component is arranged at one end of the iron core facing the sealing element, which is beneficial to improving the sealing reliability of the valve to the pressure relief hole. Furthermore, a supporting boss is arranged at one end of the iron core facing the sealing element, and the sealing component is sleeved and fixed on the supporting boss.

[0054] In any of the above technical solutions, a first flow stabilizing ring is embedded in the water valve body; when the valve assembly opens the valve port and defines a water passage with the water valve body, the passage defined by the first flow stabilizing ring is connected in parallel with the water passage.

[0055] A first flow stabilizing ring is provided in the water valve body. In the high water state, the channel defined by the first flow stabilizing ring is connected in parallel with the water flow channel. Therefore, the water flow entering the water inlet in the high water state is divided into two paths, one path reaches the water outlet through the first flow stabilizing ring, and the other path reaches the water outlet through the water channel. In the low water state, the valve port is closed, and the water flow can only reach the water outlet through the first flow stabilizing ring. The first flow stabilizing ring can deform according to the different water inlet pressures to change the cross-sectional area of ​​the channel defined by it, thereby keeping the water outlet flow rate stable in the low water state. In other words, the first flow stabilizing ring enables the water flow sensor to have the function of stabilizing the water outlet flow rate in the low water state, so that the water flow sensor can adapt to different water inlet pressures in the low water state.

[0056] In the above technical solution, a flow stabilizing ring sheath is embedded in the water valve body, and the first flow stabilizing ring is embedded in the flow stabilizing ring sheath.

[0057] A flow stabilizing ring sheath is provided in the water valve body, and the first flow stabilizing ring is embedded in the flow stabilizing ring sheath, which is beneficial to ensuring the stability of the first flow stabilizing ring and is also convenient for reasonably arranging the position of the first flow stabilizing ring according to needs.

[0058] In any of the above technical solutions, the water flow sensor further includes: a second flow stabilizing ring, which is arranged at the water inlet or the water outlet.

[0059] A second flow stabilizing ring is installed at the water inlet or outlet. Since the water flow must pass through the second flow stabilizing ring in high water conditions, the water flow sensor also has a flow stabilizing function in high water conditions, and the water flow rate is not easily affected by water pressure fluctuations. Of course, the second flow stabilizing ring can also be omitted, or the second flow stabilizing ring can be installed in the water inlet joint connected to the water inlet or the water outlet joint connected to the water outlet, which can also achieve the flow stabilization function.

[0060] In any of the above technical solutions, the water flow sensor is provided with a flow detection mechanism connected to the water valve body, and the flow detection mechanism is used to detect the water flow in the water flow channel.

[0061] The water flow sensor is provided with a temperature detection mechanism connected to the water valve body, and the temperature detection mechanism is used to detect the water temperature in the water flow channel.

[0062] The flow detection mechanism ensures that the water flow sensor has flow detection capabilities, allowing the water heater controller to promptly obtain flow information and thus properly control the water heater. Specifically, the flow detection mechanism may include a rotor assembly and a Hall effect sensor. The rotor assembly is located within the water valve body and includes a rotor and an impeller. The incoming water flow propels the rotor through the impeller, cutting the magnetic flux lines generated by the Hall effect sensor. The Hall effect sensor senses the frequency of the rotor cutting the magnetic flux lines and feeds this frequency back to the controller to calculate the water flow rate.

[0063] The flow detection mechanism is arranged upstream of the valve port.

[0064] In the projection along the valve opening, the flow detection mechanism is arranged on a side of the valve opening close to the water inlet.

[0065] The temperature detection mechanism ensures that the water flow sensor has a temperature detection function, which makes it easier for the water heater controller to obtain the water temperature in time and then reasonably control the water heater.

[0066] The water valve body includes a first pipe section and a middle section. One end of the first pipe section is configured with a water inlet and the other end is connected to the middle section. The valve port is arranged on the middle section, and the flow detection mechanism is arranged in the first pipe section.

[0067] The first pipe section includes a first reducing pipe section and a fixed diameter pipe section. One end of the first reducing pipe section is formed as a water inlet, and the other end is connected to the fixed diameter pipe section. The first reducing pipe section and the fixed diameter pipe section extend in the same direction, and the flow detection mechanism is arranged in the fixed diameter pipe section.

[0068] The water valve body includes a first reducing pipe section, which includes a first section and a second section. One end of the first section is formed as a water inlet, and the other end is connected to the second section. The radial dimension of the second section is smaller than the radial dimension of the first section, so that the first reducing pipe section is constructed in a flared shape.

[0069] The water valve body includes a second reducing pipe section, the second reducing pipe section includes a third pipe section and a fourth pipe section, one end of the third pipe section is formed as a water outlet, and the other end is connected to the fourth pipe section, the radial dimension of the fourth pipe section is smaller than the radial dimension of the third pipe section, so that the second reducing pipe section is constructed into a flared shape.

[0070] A first hook is provided on the outer side of the peripheral wall of the water inlet. The first hook extends along the radial direction of the water inlet and is arranged in a direction away from the water outlet.

[0071] A second hook is provided on the outer side of the peripheral wall of the water outlet. The second hook extends along the radial direction of the water outlet and is arranged in a direction away from the water outlet.

[0072] The technical solution of the second aspect of the present invention provides a water heater, including the water heater as described in any one of the technical solutions of the first aspect.

[0073] The water heater provided by the technical solution of the second aspect of the present invention includes the water flow sensor of any one of the technical solutions of the first aspect, and thus has all the beneficial effects of any of the above technical solutions, which will not be repeated here.

[0074] In the above technical solution, the controller of the water heater is electrically connected to the water flow sensor and is used to control the valve assembly of the water flow sensor according to the detection result of the water flow sensor.

[0075] The controller of the water heater is electrically connected to the water flow sensor, and controls the valve assembly according to the detection results of the water flow sensor (water flow and / or water temperature), so that the water flow sensor automatically switches between the low water state and the high water state, realizing automatic control, which is beneficial to ensuring the outlet water temperature under low temperature conditions and to ensuring the high flow water demand under high temperature conditions.

[0076] In the above technical solution, the water heater is a gas water heater.

[0077] Specifically, the gas water heater includes: a heat exchanger system, a water inlet, a water outlet, a combustion system, a gas control system, and a water flow sensor according to any one of the above-mentioned first technical solutions. Specifically, the water inlet is connected to the heat exchange system; the water outlet is connected to the heat exchange system; the combustion system is used to heat the heat exchange system; and the gas control system is connected to the combustion system. The water flow sensor is connected between the water inlet and the heat exchange system, with the water inlet connected to the water inlet and the water outlet connected to the heat exchange system. A controller communicates with the flow detection mechanism of the water flow sensor and the gas control system, respectively, and controls the gas supply ratio of the gas control system based on the water flow rate feedback from the flow detection mechanism.

[0078] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description which follows, or may be learned by practice of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0079] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0080] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a water flow sensor according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0081] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the water flow sensor shown;

[0082] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The left side structural diagram of the water flow sensor shown;

[0083] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional structural diagram of the water flow sensor in the first state is shown;

[0084] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the enlarged structure of the middle part A;

[0085] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional structural diagram of the water flow sensor in the second state;

[0086] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the flow stabilizing ring sheath of the water flow sensor shown;

[0087] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 The figure shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the assembly of the flow stabilizing ring sheath and the flow stabilizing ring of the water flow sensor.

[0088] in, Figures 1 to 8The corresponding relationship between the reference numerals and component names is as follows:

[0089] 1 water valve body, 11 water flow channel, 111 water inlet, 112 water outlet, 113 valve port, 114 water outlet, 12 water passage, 13 sealing groove, 14 annular protrusion, 2 valve assembly, 21 valve, 211 electromagnetic coil, 212 iron core, 2121 limiting boss, 2122 supporting boss, 213 conduit, 2131 pipe body, 2132 supporting cover, 214 magnetic sleeve, 215 sealing component, 22 sealing member, 221 sealing gasket, 222 supporting member, 2221 supporting body, 2222 connecting portion, 2223 limiting groove, 224 water hole, 225 pressure relief hole, 23 water containing cavity, 24 first elastic member, 25 second elastic member, 3 first flow stabilizing ring, 4 flow stabilizing ring sheath, 41 through hole, 5 flow detection mechanism, 51 rotor assembly, 511 rotor, 512 impeller, 52 Hall sensor, 6 temperature detection mechanism;

[0090] in, Figure 4 and Figure 6 The arrows in the figure indicate the direction of water flow. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0091] In order to more clearly understand the above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention, the present invention is further described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that, in the absence of conflict, the embodiments of the present application and the features therein can be combined with each other.

[0092] In the following description, many specific details are set forth to facilitate a full understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0093] Refer to the following Figures 1 to 8 A water flow sensor and a water heater according to some embodiments of the present invention are described.

[0094] Example 1

[0095] A water flow sensor, comprising: a water valve body 1 and a valve assembly, such as Figure 1 and Figure 3 shown.

[0096] Specifically, the water valve body 1 is provided with a water flow channel 11, such as Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown. The water flow channel 11 has a water inlet 111 and a water outlet 112. Figure 1 、 Figure 4 and Figure 6 The water valve body 1 is also provided with a valve port 113 communicating with the water flow channel 11, as shown. Figure 6As shown, the valve port 113 is located between the water inlet 111 and the water outlet 112 .

[0097] The valve assembly is located at the valve port 113 and is connected to the water valve body 1 for opening or closing the valve port 113. Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, when the valve port 113 is opened, a water passage 12 is defined between the valve body 1 and the water valve body 1. Figure 6 As shown, the two ends of the water passage 12 are respectively connected to the water inlet 111 and the water outlet 112.

[0098] The water flow sensor provided in this embodiment has a valve assembly added to the water valve body 1, and the water volume is adjusted by using the cooperation of the valve assembly and the water valve body 1, which is equivalent to integrating a stop valve on the basis of the water flow sensor, so that the water flow sensor has the functions of sensing water flow and regulating water flow, thereby eliminating the water regulating valve in the prior art, saving the space occupied by the water regulating valve near the pipe of the water heater, and eliminating the connection structure between the water regulating valve and the pipe, which is beneficial to saving space, simplifying the product structure, and thus helping to reduce production costs.

[0099] Specifically, the water flow sensor includes a water valve body 1 and a valve assembly. The water valve body 1 is provided with a water flow channel 11 having a water inlet 111 and a water outlet 112. Water flowing into the water flow sensor enters the water valve body 1 through the water inlet 111 and flows out of the water valve body 1 through the water outlet 112. The water valve body 1 is also provided with a valve port 113, located between the water inlet 111 and the water outlet 112. This port 113 cooperates with the valve assembly to define the water flow channel 12 to increase flow, or is closed by the valve assembly to reduce flow, thereby achieving a flow regulation function.

[0100] Specifically, when the valve assembly closes the valve port 113, the water entering the water valve body 1 from the water inlet 111 can only reach the water outlet 112 through the water flow channel 11 and flow out. Figure 4 As shown; when the valve assembly opens the valve port 113, a water passage 12 is defined between the valve assembly and the water valve body 1. Since the two ends of the water passage 12 are connected to the water inlet 111 and the water outlet 112, respectively, the water entering the water valve body 1 from the water inlet 111 can be divided into two paths, one path reaches the water outlet 112 through the water flow channel 11 and flows out, and the other path reaches the water outlet 112 through the water channel 12 and flows out. Figure 6 As shown, compared with the case where the valve assembly closes the valve port 113, the water flow rate is increased.

[0101] Therefore, when the valve assembly closes valve port 113, the water flow sensor switches to a low-flow state, achieving a low-flow water supply, which is beneficial for ensuring the outlet water temperature under low-temperature conditions. When the valve assembly opens valve port 113, the water flow sensor switches to a high-flow state, achieving a high-flow water supply, which is beneficial for ensuring high-flow water demand under high-temperature conditions. Since the water flow sensor and the water regulating valve are integrated into one unit, it is beneficial for saving space and simplifying the structure.

[0102] At the same time, compared with the water proportional valve type water regulation structure, this solution is cheaper. Compared with the memory alloy type structure, this solution is quieter, and the water flow rate is not limited by the memory alloy structure.

[0103] It is understandable that the flow detection mechanism 5 of the water flow sensor can be partially arranged in the water valve body 1, or can be completely arranged outside the water valve body 1, such as in a pipe joint connected to the water inlet 111.

[0104] Furthermore, the valve assembly includes: a sealing member 22 and a valve 21, such as Figure 6 shown.

[0105] The sealing member 22 is provided at the valve port 113 and is adapted to define a water passage 12 between the sealing member 22 and the water valve body 1 when the valve port 113 is opened by the valve assembly. Figure 6 The valve 21 is connected to the water valve body 1 and cooperates with the sealing member 22 to open or close the valve port 113. Figures 4 to 6 shown.

[0106] The valve assembly includes a seal 22 and a valve 21. The seal 22 is arranged at the valve port 113 and can fit tightly with the water valve body 1 to ensure the sealing reliability of the valve assembly to the valve port 113; the valve 21 is connected to the water valve body 1 to ensure the assembly stability of the valve assembly and the water valve body 1, and cooperates with the seal 22 to ensure that the valve assembly can achieve the shut-off function.

[0107] Example 2

[0108] On the basis of embodiment one, a water containing chamber 23 is further enclosed between the valve 21 and the sealing member 22, and a pressure relief hole 225 and a water through hole 224 are provided on the sealing member 22. The pressure relief hole 225 is correspondingly connected to the valve port 21 and is connected to the water containing chamber 23. The water through hole 224 connects the water containing chamber 23 and the water inlet 111.

[0109] A water-containing cavity 23 is provided between the valve 21 and the sealing member 22. Figure 5 The water valve body 1 is provided with a water port 114, which is located on the upstream side of the valve port 113. Figure 5 The sealing member 22 is provided with a water hole 224 corresponding to the water opening 114. Figure 5As shown, the water holding chamber 23 is connected to the water inlet 111.

[0110] A water outlet chamber 23 is enclosed between the valve 21 and the sealing member 22. The water outlet chamber 23 is connected to the water inlet 111 of the water valve body 1 through the water hole 224 on the sealing member 22 and the water through port 114 on the water valve body 1. The valve port 113 is located on the downstream side of the water through port 114 and is therefore connected to the water outlet 112. When the valve assembly closes the valve port 113, the side of the sealing member 22 facing away from the valve port 113 is connected to the water inlet 111, and the side of the sealing member 22 facing the valve port 113 is connected to the water outlet 112. Since the water inlet pressure is greater than the water outlet pressure, the pressure formed by the pressure difference on both sides of the sealing member 22 can press the sealing member 22 tightly against the water valve body 1, and is not easily affected by changes in water pressure, thereby significantly improving the sealing reliability of the valve assembly to the valve port 113.

[0111] At the same time, this can also reduce the force exerted by the valve 21 on the seal 22, thereby reducing the power requirement of the valve 21, which is beneficial to reducing costs and extending service life. When the valve assembly opens the valve port 113, the water flow port 114 forms the entrance of the water passage 12, and the valve port 113 forms the outlet of the water passage 12. Water flows through the water flow port 114 into the water passage 12, then enters the water valve body 1 through the valve port 113, and finally flows out through the water outlet 112.

[0112] The cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the pressure relief hole 225 away from the valve 21 is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the pressure relief hole 225 close to the valve.

[0113] In addition, optionally, in the projection along the axis of the valve port, the pressure relief hole is located on the inner side of the valve port, and the water through hole is located on the outer side of the valve port.

[0114] Furthermore, the sealing member 22 is provided with a pressure relief hole 225 correspondingly connected to the valve port 113. Figure 5 The valve 21 is partially adapted to move relative to the sealing member 22 to open or close the pressure relief hole 225 (eg Figures 4 to 6 As shown), the seal 22 opens the valve port 113 when the pressure relief hole 225 is opened and defines a water passage 12 between the water valve body 1, as shown Figure 6 shown.

[0115] A pressure relief hole 225 is provided at the position of the sealing member 22 corresponding to the valve port 113. Since the pressure relief hole 225 is connected to the water flow channel 11, when the valve 21 opens the pressure relief hole 225, the pressure relief hole 225 is instantly connected to the water containing chamber 23 and the water outlet 112, so that the water pressure in the water containing chamber 23 drops rapidly, and the force balance of the sealing member 22 is broken. Under the action of the water inlet pressure, the sealing member 22 at least partially moves in a direction away from the valve port 113, thereby opening the valve port 113 and defining a water flow channel 12 between the sealing member 22 and the water valve body 1.

[0116] Furthermore, the outer periphery of the sealing member 22 is fixed to the water valve body 1. The middle portion of the sealing member 22 is adapted to be deformed, such as Figure 6 As shown, when the pressure relief hole 225 is opened, the valve port 113 is opened and a water passage 12 is defined between the valve body 1 and the water valve body 1 .

[0117] The outer periphery of the seal 22 is fixed on the water valve body 1, and the deformation of the middle part of the seal 22 is used to ensure that a water passage 12 is formed between the seal 22 and the water valve body 1. Compared with the solution of opening the valve port 113 by the displacement of the entire seal 22, the seal 22 can be prevented from repeatedly moving during use, resulting in displacement, misalignment, etc., thereby improving the stability of the position of the seal 22 and further improving the reliability of the valve assembly.

[0118] Specifically, the outer periphery of the sealing member 22 is pressed and fixed on the water valve body 1 by the valve 21. Figure 5 shown.

[0119] The outer periphery of the seal 22 is pressed against the water valve body 1 by utilizing the fixed portion of the valve 21 , which ensures the stability of the position of the seal 22 and does not require other components for fixing the seal 22 . The structure is simple and the design is ingenious.

[0120] Furthermore, a sealing groove 13 is provided on the water valve body 1, and the outer periphery of the sealing member 22 is embedded in the sealing groove 13, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 The water valve body 1 is also provided with an annular protrusion 14, and a portion of the valve 21 is inserted into the annular protrusion 14 and abuts against the outer periphery of the sealing member 22, as shown. Figure 5 shown.

[0121] The sealing groove 13 is provided on the water valve body 1, which not only plays a positioning role during the assembly process, facilitating the rapid assembly of the seal 22, but also plays a limiting role after the assembly is completed, preventing the seal 22 from moving, thereby improving the position stability of the seal 22. The water valve body 1 is also provided with an annular protrusion 14, which not only plays a positioning role during the assembly process, facilitating the rapid assembly of the valve 21, but also plays a limiting role after the assembly is completed, preventing the valve 21 from moving, thereby improving the position stability of the valve 21.

[0122] Example 3

[0123] On the basis of the second embodiment, the sealing member 22 further includes: a sealing gasket 221 and a supporting member 222 .

[0124] Specifically, the sealing gasket 221 is in abutment with the valve port 113 and is adapted to define a water passage 12 with the water valve body 1. Figure 6The support member 222 is connected to the sealing gasket 221 and is located between the valve 21 and the sealing gasket 221. Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, it is used to support the sealing gasket 221 and cooperate with the valve 21.

[0125] The sealing member 22 includes a sealing gasket 221 and a supporting member 222. The sealing gasket 221 can fit tightly with the water valve body 1 to play a sealing role; the supporting member 222 is connected to the sealing gasket 221 and is located between the valve 21 and the sealing member 22. When subjected to the force of the valve 21, it can provide strong support for the sealing gasket 221 to prevent the sealing gasket 221 from being deformed or shifted under the action of water pressure, thereby improving the reliability of the sealing gasket 221.

[0126] At the same time, it is also beneficial to reduce the size of the matching part of the valve 21 and the seal 22, thereby simplifying the structure of the valve 21; and it is beneficial to increase the size of the valve port 113 to increase the flow rate under high water conditions.

[0127] Of course, the support member 222 can also be omitted and only the sealing gasket 221 can be provided. For example, when the valve port 113 is small or the size of the matching part between the valve 21 and the sealing member 22 is relatively large, the support member 222 can be omitted and the reliability of the sealing gasket 221 can also be ensured.

[0128] Furthermore, the support member 222 includes: a support body 2221 and a connecting portion 2222, such as Figure 5 The supporting body 2221 fits the sealing gasket 221 , the connecting portion 2222 is connected to the supporting body 2221 , one end of the connecting portion 2222 is connected to the sealing gasket 221 , and the other end of the connecting portion 2222 fits the valve 21 .

[0129] The support member 222 includes a support body 2221 and a connecting portion 2222. The support body 2221 is in contact with the sealing gasket 221 to support the sealing gasket 221. The connecting portion 2222 is connected to the support body 2221, and one end of the connecting portion 2222 is connected to the sealing gasket 221 to ensure that the support member 222 and the sealing member 22 are assembled and fixed. The other end of the connecting portion 2222 cooperates with the valve 21 to ensure the cooperation function of the sealing member 22 and the valve 21.

[0130] Specifically, one end of the connecting portion 2222 can be connected by snapping (such as Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown), interference fit, injection molding, etc. are used to connect with the sealing gasket 221.

[0131] Furthermore, the connecting portion 2222 passes through the sealing gasket 221 and is provided with a pressure relief hole 225. In other words, the pressure relief hole 225 is provided on the connecting portion 2222. Figure 5 shown.

[0132] The connecting portion 2222 passes through the sealing gasket 221 and is provided with a pressure relief hole 225 , which ensures that the sealing member 22 can achieve reliable sealing by water pressure and can be deformed by water pressure to form the water passage 12 .

[0133] Furthermore, the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the connecting portion 2222 away from the valve 21 is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the connecting portion 2222 close to the valve 21. Figure 5 shown.

[0134] The cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the connecting portion 2222 away from the valve 21 is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the connecting portion 2222 close to the valve 21, which is beneficial to reducing the size of the matching part between the valve 21 and the sealing member 22, thereby simplifying the structure of the valve 21.

[0135] At the same time, it is also beneficial to reduce the size of the port of the pressure relief hole 225 facing the valve 21, which can reduce the difficulty of the valve 21 sealing the pressure relief hole 225, and further simplify the structure of the valve 21.

[0136] Furthermore, the outer periphery of the support body 2221 is located inside the outer periphery of the sealing gasket 221, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 shown.

[0137] The outer periphery of the support body 2221 is located inside the outer periphery of the sealing gasket 221, and the outer periphery of the sealing gasket 221 protrudes from the support body 2221. Figure 5 As shown, the outer periphery of the sealing gasket 221 can be fixed to the water valve body 1 to ensure the stability of the position of the sealing member 22; while the supporting body 2221 can be displaced to ensure that the middle portion of the sealing gasket 221 can deform, thereby opening the valve port 113 and forming a water passage 12 between the sealing gasket 221 and the water valve body 1. This helps to reduce the difficulty of deformation of the sealing gasket 221, thereby ensuring that the valve port 113 can be opened smoothly.

[0138] Specifically, the support member 222 is a plastic member.

[0139] The support member 222 is a plastic member, which is easy to be processed into a desired shape according to needs, has a certain strength to ensure reliable support for the sealing gasket 221, and has a low cost.

[0140] Of course, the support member 222 may also be made of other materials, such as metal or composite materials.

[0141] Furthermore, a first elastic member 24 is provided between the valve 21 and the support member 222. Figure 2 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, two ends of the first elastic member 24 respectively abut against the support member 222 and the fixing portion of the valve 21 .

[0142] The first elastic member 24 is provided between the valve 21 and the support member 222 , and the elastic force of the first elastic member 24 can be utilized to further improve the stability of the position of the sealing member 22 .

[0143] Specifically, the first elastic member 24 is a spring, and the support member 222 is provided with a limiting groove 2223. Figure 5 As shown, one end of the spring is limited in the limiting groove 2223 to improve the position stability of the spring.

[0144] Example 4

[0145] On the basis of the third embodiment, further, the valve 21 is an electrically controlled valve.

[0146] The valve 21 is an electrically controlled valve, which facilitates automatic control and thus improves user comfort.

[0147] Of course, the valve 21 may also be a mechanical valve, which is operated manually.

[0148] Specifically, the valve 21 includes an electromagnetic coil 211 and an iron core 212 . The iron core 212 is inserted into the electromagnetic coil 211 , adapted to move along the axis of the electromagnetic coil 211 , and cooperates with the sealing member 22 .

[0149] The valve 21 includes an electromagnetic coil 211 and an iron core 212 . The operation of the valve 21 can be controlled by controlling the on and off of power to the electromagnetic coil 211 , which helps to simplify the control procedure.

[0150] Furthermore, the iron core 212 and the sealing member 22 are in a stop-fitting manner, and water pressure is used to ensure the sealing reliability of the sealing member 22 .

[0151] Furthermore, the valve 21 further comprises: a conduit 213, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 The electromagnetic coil 211 is sleeved on the outside of the guide tube 213 , and the iron core 212 is inserted into the guide tube 213 .

[0152] The valve 21 also includes a conduit 213, an iron core 212 is inserted into the conduit 213, and the electromagnetic coil 211 is sleeved on the outside of the conduit 213, so that the iron core 212 can move along the conduit 213, so that the conduit 213 plays a guiding and limiting role for the iron core 212, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the use of the iron core 212, and plays an isolating role for the electromagnetic coil 211, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the use of the electromagnetic coil 211.

[0153] It is understandable that a protective layer may be provided on the surface of the electromagnetic coil 211 , the outer surface of the iron core 212 and the inner surface of the conduit 213 to prevent damage or malfunction caused by water or the generation of harmful substances.

[0154] Furthermore, the conduit 213 includes a tube body 2131 with an open end and a support cover 2132 connected to the open end of the tube body 2131. Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown. The support cover 2132 abuts against the outer periphery of the sealing member 22, as shown. Figure 5 As shown, the electromagnetic coil 211 is sleeved on the outside of the tube body 2131 .

[0155] The conduit 213 includes a tube body 2131 and a support cover 2132. One end of the tube body 2131 is open, allowing the iron core 212 to be inserted and the electromagnetic coil 211 to be sleeved, thereby assembling the iron core 212 and the electromagnetic coil 211. The support cover 2132 is connected to the open end of the tube body 2131 and abuts against the outer periphery of the seal 22, thereby securing the seal 22.

[0156] Furthermore, a water-containing cavity 23 is formed between the support cover 2132 and the sealing member 22. Figure 5 As shown, the first elastic member 24 is supported between the support cover 2132 and the support member 222 .

[0157] Furthermore, the valve 21 further includes a magnetic conductive sleeve 214. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the magnetic conductive sleeve 214 is sleeved on the guide tube 213 and is located inside the electromagnetic coil 211 .

[0158] The valve 21 further includes a magnetic sleeve 214 , which is sleeved on the conduit 213 , and is beneficial for improving the matching reliability between the electromagnetic coil 211 and the iron core 212 , thereby improving the reliability of the valve 21 .

[0159] The number of the magnetic conductive sleeves 214 may be one, or two or more, and the plurality of magnetic conductive sleeves 214 may be distributed along the length direction of the conduit 213 .

[0160] Furthermore, the valve 21 further comprises: a second elastic member 25, such as Figure 4 The second elastic member 25 is disposed in the conduit 213 , and both ends of the second elastic member 25 respectively abut against the conduit 213 and the end of the iron core 212 away from the sealing member 22 .

[0161] The second elastic member 25 is disposed in the conduit 213 , and the elastic force of the second elastic member 25 can be utilized to further improve the stability of the position of the iron core 212 .

[0162] Specifically, the second elastic member 25 is a spring, and one end of the iron core 212 close to the second elastic member 25 is provided with a limiting boss 2121. Figure 2 One end of the spring is sleeved on the limiting boss 2121 to improve the position stability of the spring.

[0163] Furthermore, the valve 21 further comprises: a sealing component 215, such as Figure 2 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5 The sealing component 215 is provided at one end of the core 212 facing the sealing member 22, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 shown.

[0164] A sealing component 215 is provided at one end of the iron core 212 facing the sealing member 22 , which is beneficial to improving the sealing reliability of the valve 21 to the pressure relief hole 225 .

[0165] Furthermore, a support boss 2122 is provided at one end of the iron core 212 facing the seal 22. Figure 2 and Figure 5 The sealing component 215 is sleeved and fixed on the supporting boss 2122 .

[0166] Example 5

[0167] On the basis of any of the above embodiments, further, a first flow stabilizing ring 3 is embedded in the water valve body 1, such as Figure 4 and Figure 6 When the valve assembly opens the valve port 113 and defines a water passage 12 with the water valve body 1, the passage defined by the first flow stabilizing ring 3 is connected in parallel with the water passage 12, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 shown.

[0168] A first flow stabilizing ring 3 is provided in the water valve body 1. In the flood state, the channel defined by the first flow stabilizing ring 3 is connected in parallel with the water passage 12. Therefore, the water flowing into the water inlet 111 in the flood state is divided into two paths, one path passes through the first flow stabilizing ring 3 to reach the water outlet 112, and the other path passes through the water passage 12 to reach the water outlet 112. Figure 6 shown.

[0169] In the low water state, the valve port 113 is closed, and the water flow can only reach the water outlet 112 through the first flow stabilizing ring 3. Figure 4 The first flow stabilizing ring 3 can be deformed according to the different inlet water pressures to change the cross-sectional area of ​​the channel defined by it, thereby keeping the outflow rate stable in the low water state.

[0170] In other words, the first flow stabilizing ring 3 enables the water flow sensor to have the function of stabilizing the water outflow in a low water state, so that the water flow sensor can adapt to different water inlet pressures in a low water state.

[0171] Specifically, the water valve body 1 is embedded with a flow stabilizing ring sheath 4, such as Figure 4 and Figure 6 The first flow stabilizing ring 3 is embedded in the flow stabilizing ring sheath 4, as shown. Figure 8 shown.

[0172] A flow stabilizing ring sheath 4 is provided in the water valve body 1 , and the first flow stabilizing ring 3 is embedded in the flow stabilizing ring sheath 4 , which is beneficial to ensuring the stability of the first flow stabilizing ring 3 and is also convenient for reasonably arranging the position of the first flow stabilizing ring 3 according to needs.

[0173] Furthermore, the length of the flow stabilizing ring sheath 4 is greater than the length of the flow stabilizing ring, which is beneficial to increase the contact area between the flow stabilizing ring sheath 4 and the water valve body 1, thereby improving the stability of the flow stabilizing ring sheath 4. Among them, a through hole 41 communicating with the water port 114 can be provided on the flow stabilizing ring sheath 4, such as Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, it is ensured that the water flow can pass through the flow stabilizing ring sheath 4 to reach the water outlet 114.

[0174] Example 6

[0175] On the basis of any of the above embodiments, the water flow sensor further includes: a second flow stabilizing ring, provided at the water inlet 111 or the water outlet 112 .

[0176] A second flow stabilizing ring is provided at the water inlet 111 or the water outlet 112. Since the water flow must pass through the second flow stabilizing ring in a flood state, the water flow sensor also has a flow stabilizing function in a flood state, and the water outlet flow is not easily affected by water pressure fluctuations.

[0177] Specifically, a limiting step is provided at the water inlet 111 or the water outlet 112 to ensure that the second flow stabilizing ring can be directly assembled on the water valve body 1 without the need for a flow stabilizing ring sheath 4 .

[0178] Of course, the second flow stabilizing ring may be omitted, or the second flow stabilizing ring may be arranged in the water inlet joint connected to the water inlet 111 or in the water outlet joint connected to the water outlet 112, which can also achieve the flow stabilizing function.

[0179] In any of the above embodiments, the water flow sensor is provided with a flow detection mechanism 5 connected to the water valve body 1 , and the flow detection mechanism 5 is used to detect the water flow in the water flow channel 11 .

[0180] The flow detection mechanism 5 ensures that the water flow sensor has a flow detection function, so that the controller of the water heater can obtain the flow situation in time and then reasonably control the water heater.

[0181] Specifically, the flow detection mechanism 5 may include a rotor assembly 51 and a Hall sensor 52, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, the rotor assembly 51 is disposed within the water valve body 1 and includes a rotor 511 and an impeller 512. The inlet water flow passes through the impeller 512 to drive the rotor 511 to rotate, cutting the magnetic flux lines generated by the Hall sensor 52. The Hall sensor 52 senses the frequency at which the rotor 511 cuts the magnetic flux lines and feeds this frequency back to the controller to calculate the water flow rate.

[0182] The flow detection mechanism 5 can be arranged upstream of the valve port to avoid turbulence of the liquid passing through the valve port, thereby affecting the flow detection.

[0183] As shown in the figure, in addition, it can also be arranged that, in the projection along the valve port, the flow detection mechanism 5 is arranged on the side of the valve port close to the water inlet.

[0184] Furthermore, the water flow sensor is provided with a temperature detection mechanism 6 connected to the water valve body 1 , and the temperature detection mechanism 6 is used to detect the water temperature in the water flow channel 11 .

[0185] The temperature detection mechanism 6 ensures that the water flow sensor has a temperature detection function, so that the controller of the water heater can obtain the water temperature in time and thus reasonably control the water heater.

[0186] Example 7

[0187] A water heater comprises the water heater according to any one of the embodiments of the first aspect.

[0188] The water heater provided in this embodiment includes the water flow sensor of any one of the above embodiments, and thus has all the beneficial effects of any of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0189] Furthermore, the controller of the water heater is electrically connected to the water flow sensor and is used to control a valve assembly of the water flow sensor according to a detection result of the water flow sensor.

[0190] The controller of the water heater is electrically connected to the water flow sensor, and controls the valve assembly according to the detection results of the water flow sensor (water flow and / or water temperature), so that the water flow sensor automatically switches between the low water state and the high water state, realizing automatic control, which is beneficial to ensuring the outlet water temperature under low temperature conditions and the high flow water demand under high temperature conditions.

[0191] Furthermore, the water heater is a gas water heater.

[0192] The gas water heater includes: a heat exchanger system, a water inlet device, a water outlet device, a combustion system, a gas control system and a water flow sensor according to any one of the above-mentioned first aspect embodiments.

[0193] Specifically, the water inlet and outlet are connected to the heat exchange system. The combustion system is used to heat the heat exchange system. The gas control system is connected to the combustion system to control the amount of gas supplied to the combustion system. A water flow sensor is connected between the water inlet and the heat exchange system, with water inlet 111 connected to the water inlet and water outlet 112 connected to the heat exchange system. The controller communicates with the flow detection mechanism 5 of the water flow sensor and the gas control system, respectively. Based on the water flow rate feedback from the flow detection mechanism 5, the controller controls the gas supply ratio of the gas control system, thereby controlling the combustion load of the combustion system and ensuring that the outlet water reaches the desired temperature.

[0194] like Figure 4 The water valve body 1 includes a first pipe section 101 and a middle section 102. One end of the first pipe section 101 is configured with a water inlet and the other end is connected to the middle section 102. The valve port is provided on the middle section 102, and the flow detection mechanism is provided in the first pipe section 101.

[0195] The first pipe section 101 includes a first reducing pipe section 1011 and a fixed diameter pipe section 1012. One end of the first reducing pipe section 1011 is formed as a water inlet 111, and the other end is connected to the fixed diameter pipe section 1012. The first reducing pipe section 1011 and the fixed diameter pipe section 1012 extend in the same direction, and the flow detection mechanism is arranged in the fixed diameter pipe section 1012.

[0196] The water valve body 1 includes a first reducing pipe section 1011, which includes a first section 1011a and a second section 1011b. One end of the first section 1011a is formed as a water inlet 111, and the other end is connected to the second section 1011b. The radial dimension of the second section 1011b is smaller than the radial dimension of the first section 101, so that the first reducing pipe section 1011 is constructed into a flared shape.

[0197] The water valve body 1 includes a second reducing pipe section 1031, which includes a third pipe section 1031a and a fourth pipe section 1031b. One end of the third pipe section 1031a is formed as a water outlet, and the other end is connected to the fourth pipe section 1031b. The radial dimension of the fourth pipe section 1031b is smaller than the radial dimension of the third pipe section 1031a, so that the second reducing pipe section 1031 is constructed into a flared shape.

[0198] A first hook 104 is provided on the outer side of the peripheral wall of the water inlet. The first hook 104 extends along the radial direction of the water inlet and is arranged in a direction away from the water outlet.

[0199] A second hook 105 is provided on the outer side of the peripheral wall of the water outlet. The second hook 105 extends along the radial direction of the water outlet and is arranged in a direction away from the water outlet.

[0200] The following describes in detail using a gas water heater as an example and compares it with the prior art.

[0201] A water flow sensor is an essential component of a gas water heater. It detects the inlet water temperature and flow rate, providing feedback to the controller so it can issue the correct combustion instructions. The proper operation of a gas water heater is closely related to the user's water usage conditions. In cold weather, users demand a higher hot water temperature than in summer. However, due to the low inlet water temperature, even operating the gas water heater at maximum power may not achieve the set outlet water temperature. The most common approach is to reduce the water flow rate to increase the outlet water temperature.

[0202] Currently, common methods for regulating water flow in gas water heaters include mechanical manual water regulating valves, water proportional valves, and memory alloy valves. Mechanical water regulating valves require manual adjustment each time, making them inconvenient to operate. Water proportional valves are expensive and bulky, making them uncommon. Memory alloy valves, however, often attract user complaints due to their severe flow interception and high noise levels.

[0203] To this end, the present invention designs an automatic water flow sensor with a flow stabilization function. When the inlet water temperature is low and the water heater detects that even at maximum power, the set outlet water temperature cannot be reached, the controller issues a command, and the water flow sensor automatically switches to a low-flow state. This flow stabilization function also ensures that even fluctuations in inlet water pressure will not affect the water flow rate and outlet water temperature. When the inlet water temperature exceeds the controller's set value, the water flow sensor switches to a high-flow state to meet high-flow water demand.

[0204] In other words, the present invention integrates a water shut-off valve structure on the basis of the existing water flow sensor, realizing the functions of detecting water temperature, sensing water flow, regulating water flow and stabilizing water flow, thereby solving the following technical problems: in winter, the inlet water temperature is low and the outlet water temperature of the water heater does not meet the set requirements; in summer, the inlet water temperature is high and a large amount of water is used; the inlet water pressure fluctuates and the water flow is sometimes large and sometimes small.

[0205] Specifically, an automatic water flow sensor with a steady flow function, such as Figures 1 to 6 As shown, it mainly includes a water valve body 1, a rotor assembly 51, a small water flow stabilizing ring (i.e., the first flow stabilizing ring 3), a flow stabilizing ring sheath 4, a stop valve (i.e., the valve 21), a Hall sensor 52, and a temperature probe (i.e., the temperature detection mechanism 6).

[0206] Its working principle is:

[0207] Water enters the rotor assembly 51 through the water inlet 111 of the water valve body 1. The rotor assembly 51 houses an impeller. The incoming water flow passes through the impeller 512, driving the rotor 511 to rotate. This in turn cuts the magnetic flux lines generated by the Hall effect sensor 52. The Hall effect sensor 52 senses the frequency of the rotor 511 cutting the magnetic field and feeds this frequency back to the controller, which calculates the water flow rate. A temperature probe detects the inlet water temperature and provides feedback to the controller. The controller uses the collected data, including the water flow rate, inlet water temperature, and the set outlet water temperature, to calculate whether the shutoff valve needs to be opened or closed. Opening and closing are entirely electronically controlled, eliminating the need for manual operation.

[0208] Low water status: The stop valve is not energized and closes valve port 113. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the sealing gasket 221 is tightly attached to the valve port 113 of the water valve body 1. After passing through the rotor assembly 51, the inlet water flow can only pass through the small water stabilizing ring to reach the outlet 112 of the water valve body 1. The small water stabilizing ring has the function of stabilizing the outlet water flow, and the fluctuation of the inlet water pressure will not affect the outlet water flow.

[0209] Flood state: The stop valve is powered on and opened. Figure 6 An opening (ie, water passage 12) is formed between the sealing gasket 221 and the valve port 113 of the water valve body 1. Figure 6 As shown, after the inlet water flows through the rotor assembly 51, a portion enters the water outlet 112 through this opening, while the other portion still reaches the water outlet 112 through the flow stabilization ring, achieving a large amount of water surging bathing water. In the case of high water flow, the flow stabilization function (i.e., whether to add a second flow stabilization ring) can be selected according to actual conditions.

[0210] Among them, the working principle of the stop valve is: when the stop valve is not energized, the sealing gasket 221 and the support member 222 are tightly attached together, the left end face of the stop valve sealing gasket 221 is connected to the water inlet, and the right end face is connected to the water outlet. Since the water inlet pressure is greater than the water outlet pressure, the sealing gasket 221 is sealed with the valve port 113 of the water valve body 1 by the pressure formed by the left and right pressure differences; when the electromagnetic coil 211 of the stop valve is energized, a magnetic field is generated, and the iron core 212 moves to the left along the conduit 213 under the action of the magnetic field force, and the sealing component 215 is assembled with the iron core 212 and moves to the left with the iron core 212, away from the support member 222. There is a small hole (i.e., pressure relief hole 225) in the center of the support member 222. At the moment when the iron core 212 moves to the left, the force balance of the sealing gasket 221 is broken. Under the action of the water inlet pressure, the middle part of the stop valve sealing gasket 221 is deformed, thereby forming an opening between the valve port 113 of the water valve body 1 and the sealing gasket 221, and the water flow increases to enter the high water state.

[0211] Therefore, the present invention integrates a shutoff valve and a flow stabilization ring into the water flow sensor, saving space by not occupying other locations. While the functionality is increased, the effective space occupied remains unchanged. Compared to water proportional valve-based water regulation structures, the cost is lower. Compared to memory alloys, the noise level is lower, and the water flow rate is not limited by the structure of the memory alloy.

[0212] In summary, the water flow sensor and water heater provided by the present invention have a valve assembly added to the water valve body, and the water volume is adjusted by using the cooperation of the valve assembly and the water valve body, which is equivalent to integrating a stop valve on the basis of the water flow sensor, so that the water flow sensor has the functions of sensing water flow and regulating water flow, thereby eliminating the water regulating valve in the prior art, saving both the space occupied by the water regulating valve near the pipe of the water heater and the connection structure between the water regulating valve and the pipe, which is beneficial to saving space, simplifying the product structure, and thus helping to reduce production costs.

[0213] In the present invention, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. The term "plurality" refers to two or more, unless expressly limited otherwise. Terms such as "installed," "connected," "connected," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connected" can mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; "connected" can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediary. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of these terms in the present invention based on specific circumstances.

[0214] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the directions or positional relationships indicated by terms such as "up", "down", "left", "right", "front" and "back" are based on the directions or positional relationships 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 unit referred to must have a specific direction, be constructed and operated in a specific direction. Therefore, they should not be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0215] Throughout this specification, terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," and "specific embodiments" mean that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in conjunction with that embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, schematic representations of these terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0216] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and variations of the present invention are possible. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention shall be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A water flow sensor, characterized in that: include: The water valve body is provided with a water flow channel, the water flow channel has a water inlet and a water outlet, and the water valve body is further provided with a valve port communicating with the water flow channel, the valve port being located between the water inlet and the water outlet; The valve assembly is provided at the valve port and is connected to the water valve body, and is used to open or close the valve port. When the valve port is open, a water passage is defined between the valve assembly and the water valve body, and the two ends of the water passage are connected to the water inlet and the water outlet respectively. The valve assembly includes a seal and a valve. The seal is provided at the valve port and is suitable for defining a water passage between the valve body and the water valve body when the valve assembly opens the valve port. The valve is connected to the water valve body and cooperates with the seal to open or close the valve port. A water-containing cavity is enclosed between the valve and the sealing member, and a pressure relief hole and a water-through hole are provided on the sealing member. The pressure relief hole is connected to the valve port and is connected to the water-containing cavity. The water-through hole is connected to the water-containing cavity and the water inlet. The valve portion is adapted to move relative to the seal to open or close the pressure relief hole.

2. The water flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that In the projection along the axis of the valve port, the pressure relief hole is located on the inner side of the valve port, and the water through hole is located on the outer side of the valve port.

3. The water flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that The water flow sensor is provided with a flow detection mechanism connected to the water valve body, and the flow detection mechanism is used to detect the water flow in the water flow channel.

4. The water flow sensor according to claim 3, characterized in that: The flow detection mechanism includes a rotor assembly and a Hall sensor. The rotor assembly is located in the water valve body and includes a rotor and an impeller. The inlet water flow drives the rotor to rotate through the impeller, cutting the magnetic flux lines generated by the magnetic field of the Hall sensor. The Hall sensor senses the frequency of the rotor cutting the magnetic flux lines and feeds this frequency back to the controller to calculate the water flow rate. Alternatively, the flow detection mechanism is provided upstream of the valve port; Alternatively, in the projection along the valve opening, the flow detection mechanism is arranged on a side of the valve opening close to the water inlet.

5. The water flow sensor according to claim 3, characterized in that: The water valve body includes a first pipe section and a middle section. One end of the first pipe section is configured with a water inlet and the other end is connected to the middle section. The valve port is arranged on the middle section, and the flow detection mechanism is arranged in the first pipe section.

6. The water flow sensor according to claim 5, characterized in that: The first pipe section includes a first reducing pipe section and a fixed diameter pipe section. One end of the first reducing pipe section is formed as a water inlet, and the other end is connected to the fixed diameter pipe section. The first reducing pipe section and the fixed diameter pipe section extend in the same direction, and the flow detection mechanism is arranged in the fixed diameter pipe section.

7. The water flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The water valve body includes a first reducing pipe section, which includes a first section and a second section. One end of the first section is formed as a water inlet, and the other end is connected to the second section. The radial dimension of the second section is smaller than the radial dimension of the first section, so that the first reducing pipe section is configured in a flared shape. And / or, the water valve body includes a second reducing pipe section, the second reducing pipe section includes a third pipe section and a fourth pipe section, one end of the third pipe section is formed as a water outlet, and the other end is connected to the fourth pipe section, the radial dimension of the fourth pipe section is smaller than the radial dimension of the third pipe section, so that the second reducing pipe section is constructed into a flared shape.

8. The water flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The water flow sensor is provided with a temperature detection mechanism connected to the water valve body, and the temperature detection mechanism is used to detect the water temperature in the water flow channel.

9. The water flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that: A first hook is provided on the outer side of the peripheral wall of the water inlet, and the first hook extends radially along the water inlet and is arranged in a direction away from the water outlet; And / or, a second hook is provided on the outer side of the peripheral wall of the water outlet, and the second hook extends along the radial direction of the water outlet and is arranged in a direction away from the water outlet.

10. The water flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the pressure relief hole away from the valve is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the pressure relief hole close to the valve.

11. The water flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The outer periphery of the sealing member is fixed to the water valve body, and the middle portion of the sealing member is adapted to deform so as to open the valve port and define a water passage between the sealing member and the water valve body when the pressure relief hole is opened; and / or, the outer periphery of the sealing member is pressed and fixed on the water valve body by the valve; And / or, a sealing groove is provided on the water valve body, and the outer periphery of the seal is embedded in the sealing groove. The water valve body is also provided with an annular protrusion, and a part of the valve is inserted into the annular protrusion and abuts against the outer periphery of the seal.

12. The water flow sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that: Seals include: A sealing gasket is engaged with the water valve body and is adapted to define a water passage between the sealing gasket and the water valve body; and The support member is connected to the sealing gasket and is located between the valve and the sealing gasket, and is used to support the sealing gasket and cooperate with the valve.

13. The water flow sensor according to claim 12, characterized in that: The support components include: Support the main body and fit with the sealing gasket; and The connecting part is connected to the supporting body, and one end of the connecting part is connected to the sealing gasket, and the other end of the connecting part is matched with the valve. In which, the connecting part passes through the sealing gasket, and the pressure relief hole is provided on the connecting part; and / or the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the connecting part away from the valve is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the connecting part close to the valve; and / or the outer periphery of the support body is located on the inner side of the outer periphery of the sealing gasket.

14. The water flow sensor according to claim 12, characterized in that: A first elastic member is further provided between the valve and the support member, and two ends of the first elastic member respectively abut against the fixed parts of the support member and the valve.

15. The water flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that: Valves include: electromagnetic coil; and The iron core is inserted into the electromagnetic coil, adapted to move along the axis of the electromagnetic coil, and cooperates with the sealing member; The electromagnetic coil is placed on the outside of the catheter, and the iron core is inserted into the catheter. In which, the catheter includes a tube body with an open end and a support cover connected to the open end of the tube body, the support cover is in abutment against the outer periphery of the seal, and the electromagnetic coil is sleeved on the outside of the tube body; and / or, the valve also includes a magnetic sleeve, which is sleeved on the catheter and located on the inner side of the electromagnetic coil; and / or, the valve also includes a second elastic member, which is arranged in the catheter, and the two ends of the second elastic member are respectively in abutment against the catheter and the end of the iron core away from the seal; and / or, the valve also includes a sealing component, which is arranged at the end of the iron core facing the seal.

16. The water flow sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that: A first flow stabilizing ring is embedded in the water valve body; When the valve assembly opens the valve port and defines a water passage with the water valve body, the passage defined by the first flow stabilizing ring is connected in parallel with the water passage.

17. The water flow sensor according to claim 16, characterized in that: A flow stabilizing ring sheath is embedded in the water valve body, and the first flow stabilizing ring is embedded in the flow stabilizing ring sheath.

18. The water flow sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that: Also includes: The second flow stabilizing ring is arranged at the water inlet or outlet.

19. A water heater, characterized in that: Comprising the water flow sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

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