Water heater and control method of water heater

Abstract

The application discloses a water heater and a control method of the water heater. The water heater comprises a first inner container for storing water; a first heating element for heating the water in the first inner container; a second inner container for containing a phase change material; a second heating element for heating the phase change material in the second inner container; a heat exchanger arranged in the second inner container and used for exchanging heat with the phase change material, the heat exchanger having an inlet for water and an outlet for water; a water inlet of the first inner container is connected with a water supply pipeline, and a water outlet of the first inner container is used for outputting hot water; and / or the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected with the water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the heat exchanger is used for outputting hot water. The application can improve the amount of hot water supplied by the water heater to meet the user's water temperature demand.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water heater technology, and in particular to a water heater and a method for controlling the water heater. Background Technology

[0002] Existing water heaters mainly include gas-fired water heaters, solar water heaters, air-source heat pump water heaters, and electric water heaters. Electric water heaters use electricity as an energy source for heating. Most electric water heaters use storage-type heating, which mainly includes: a storage tank, an anode rod to prevent corrosion, an electric heating element to heat the water in the tank, and other supporting equipment. Due to the size of the user's bathroom and the installation environment, the capacity of the inner tank of commonly used electric water heaters generally does not exceed 100L. For example, the most common household electric water heater sold on the market has a capacity of 60L. This type of electric water heater has a limited continuous hot water supply time, and users generally report insufficient hot water. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In order to overcome the above-mentioned defects of the prior art, the technical problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a water heater and a water heater control method, which can solve the problem of insufficient continuous supply of hot water.

[0004] This specification provides a water heater, comprising: a first inner tank for storing water; a first heating element for heating the water in the first inner tank; a second inner tank for containing a phase change material; a second heating element for heating the phase change material in the second inner tank; a heat exchanger disposed in the second inner tank for exchanging heat with the phase change material, the heat exchanger having an inlet for inlet water and an outlet for outlet water; the inlet of the first inner tank being connected to a water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the first inner tank being for discharging hot water; and / or, the inlet of the heat exchanger being connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the heat exchanger being for discharging hot water.

[0005] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes a switching device for adjusting the ratio of water flowing from the water supply pipe into the first inner tank and the second inner tank.

[0006] In some embodiments, the switching device has at least one or a combination of two or more of a first state, a second state, and a third state; when the switching device is in the first state, the inlet of the first inner tank is connected to the water supply pipeline, the outlet of the first inner tank is used to output hot water, and the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the heat exchanger is used to output hot water; when the switching device is in the second state, the inlet of the first inner tank is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the first inner tank is used to output hot water; when the switching device is in the third state, the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the second inner tank is used to output hot water.

[0007] In some embodiments, the switching device can be connected to the water inlet of the first inner tank, the inlet of the heat exchanger, and the water supply pipeline, so that water in the water supply pipeline flows into the first inner tank and / or the second inner tank.

[0008] In some embodiments, the outlet of the first inner tank and the outlet of the heat exchanger are connected to a temperature control valve, which can also be connected to a water supply pipeline and a water usage pipeline.

[0009] In some embodiments, the thermostatic valve includes a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet, and a mixing outlet. The hot water inlet is connected to the outlet of the first inner tank and the outlet of the heat exchanger. The cold water inlet is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the mixing outlet is connected to the water supply pipeline. The thermostatic valve is used to mix water from the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet and supply the mixed water to the mixing outlet.

[0010] In some embodiments, the switching device can be connected to the outlet of the first inner tank, the outlet of the heat exchanger, and the water pipe, so that the water flowing out of the first inner tank and / or the second inner tank flows to the water pipe.

[0011] In some embodiments, a temperature control valve is provided on the water supply pipeline, and the temperature control valve can also be connected to the water supply pipeline.

[0012] In some embodiments, the thermostatic valve includes a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet, and a mixing outlet. The hot water inlet is used to receive water flowing out of the first inner tank and / or the second inner tank, and the cold water inlet is used to receive water flowing out of the water supply pipeline. The thermostatic valve is used to mix the water from the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet to obtain mixed water, and the mixing outlet is used to input the mixed water into the water supply pipeline.

[0013] In some embodiments, the switching device includes a flow switching valve, or at least two solenoid valves.

[0014] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes a thermostatic valve, which includes a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet, and a mixing outlet; the hot water inlet is connected to the outlet of the first inner tank and the outlet of the heat exchanger; the cold water inlet is connected to the water supply pipeline; and the mixing outlet is connected to the water supply pipeline.

[0015] In some embodiments, the hot water inlet of the thermostatic valve can also be connected to the hot water output terminal of the gas-fired water heater.

[0016] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes: a temperature sensor for acquiring the temperature of the water flowing out of the outlet of the heat exchanger; and a switching device for adjusting the ratio of water flowing from the water supply pipe into the first inner tank and the second inner tank according to the detection result of the temperature sensor.

[0017] In some embodiments, both the first heating element and the second heating element are electric heating elements, with the first heating element disposed in the lower middle part of the first inner liner and the second heating element disposed in the lower middle part of the second inner liner.

[0018] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes: a first temperature probe assembly for acquiring the water temperature in the first inner tank; a second temperature probe assembly for acquiring the temperature of the phase change material in the second inner tank; and a controller electrically connected to the first temperature probe assembly and the second temperature probe assembly, wherein the controller controls the operating state of the first heating element and the second heating element based on the temperature information detected by the first temperature probe assembly and the second temperature probe assembly.

[0019] In some embodiments, the inlet and outlet of the first inner tank are located at the end of the first inner tank, and the inlet and outlet of the heat exchanger are located at the end of the second inner tank. The inlet, outlet, inlet, and outlet of the first inner tank are located on the same side.

[0020] A second aspect of this specification provides a water heater, comprising: a first inner tank for storing water; a first heating element for heating the water in the first inner tank; a second inner tank for containing a phase change material; a second heating element for heating the phase change material in the second inner tank; and a heat exchanger disposed in the second inner tank for exchanging heat with the phase change material, the heat exchanger having an inlet for water inlet and an outlet for water outlet; the first inner tank and the second inner tank are arranged in parallel.

[0021] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes a first connecting device, which includes a first port, a second port and a third port. The first port is connected to a water supply pipe, the second port is connected to the water inlet of the first inner tank, and the third port is connected to the inlet of the heat exchanger.

[0022] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes a second communication device, which includes a first port, a second port and a third port. The first port is connected to a water pipe, the second port is connected to the outlet of the first inner tank, and the third port is connected to the outlet of the heat exchanger.

[0023] In some embodiments, the communication device includes a tee or a combination of a tee and a switching valve.

[0024] This specification provides a third aspect of a method for controlling a water heater, the water heater comprising: a first inner tank for storing water; a first heating element for heating the water in the first inner tank; a second inner tank for containing a phase change material; a second heating element for heating the phase change material in the second inner tank; a heat exchanger disposed in the second inner tank for exchanging heat with the phase change material; and a switching device for adjusting the ratio of water flowing from a water supply pipe into the first inner tank and the second inner tank; the control method comprising: when a first preset condition is met, controlling the switching device to be in the first state, such that the inlet of the first inner tank is connected to the water supply pipe, the outlet of the first inner tank outputs hot water, and the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the water supply pipe, and the outlet of the heat exchanger outputs hot water.

[0025] In some embodiments, the control method includes: when a second preset condition is met, controlling the switching device to be in a second state so that the inlet of the first inner tank is connected to the water supply pipeline and the outlet of the first inner tank outputs hot water.

[0026] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: when a third preset condition is met, controlling the switching device to be in a third state so that the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the water supply pipeline and the outlet of the heat exchanger outputs hot water.

[0027] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: when a third preset condition is met, controlling the switching device to be in a third state so that the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the water supply pipeline and the outlet of the heat exchanger outputs hot water.

[0028] In some embodiments, the control method includes: when the water heater starts discharging water, a second preset condition is met, and the switching device is controlled to operate in a second state; when the outlet water temperature of the first inner tank is lower than a first preset temperature or the water temperature inside the first inner tank is lower than a second preset temperature, a third preset condition is met, and the first heating element in the first inner tank is controlled to start heating, and the switching device is controlled to switch to a third state.

[0029] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: when the outlet water temperature of the heat exchanger is less than a third preset temperature, a first preset condition is met, and the switching device is controlled to switch to the first state for operation.

[0030] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: when the temperature of the water outlet from the first inner tank and the water outlet from the heat exchanger after mixing is less than a fourth preset temperature, a second preset condition is met, and the water heater is controlled to switch to a second state of operation.

[0031] In some embodiments, when the switching device is operating in the first state, the inlet flow rate ratio or outlet flow rate ratio of the first inner tank and the second inner tank is adjusted to control the temperature of the water outlet from the first inner tank and the water outlet from the second inner tank after mixing to be greater than or equal to the fourth preset temperature.

[0032] In some embodiments, the control method includes: when the switching device is switched to any one of the first state, the second state, and the third state and the water temperature supplied by the water heater to the water pipe cannot reach the fifth preset temperature, controlling the hot water output terminal of the gas water heater to supply hot water to the water pipe.

[0033] The water heater provided in this specification includes a first inner tank for storing water, a first heating element for heating the water in the first inner tank, a second inner tank for containing a phase change material, a second heating element for heating the phase change material in the second inner tank, and a heat exchanger disposed in the second inner tank for exchanging heat with the phase change material. The inlet of the first inner tank is connected to a water supply pipe, and the outlet of the first inner tank is used to output hot water; and / or, the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to a water supply pipe, and the outlet of the heat exchanger is used to output hot water. The water heater provided in this specification has multiple water circuit connection methods, thus enabling multiple operating states. By switching between these operating states, the amount of hot water continuously supplied by the water heater to meet the user's water temperature requirements can be increased.

[0034] Specific embodiments of the invention are disclosed in detail below with reference to the description and accompanying drawings, indicating how the principles of the invention can be employed. It should be understood that the embodiments of the invention are not therefore limited in scope. Features described and / or shown for one embodiment may be used in the same or similar manner in one or more other embodiments, combined with features in other embodiments, or substituted for features in other embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Furthermore, the shapes and proportions of the components in the drawings are merely illustrative to aid in understanding the invention and do not specifically limit the shapes and proportions of the components. Those skilled in the art, guided by the teachings of this invention, can select various possible shapes and proportions to implement the invention according to specific circumstances.

[0036] Figure 1 This instruction manual shows a schematic diagram of the water heater in one of its operating states.

[0037] Figure 2 This instruction manual shows another schematic diagram of the water heater in operation.

[0038] Figure 3 This instruction manual shows another schematic diagram of the water heater in operation, or... Figure 3 A schematic diagram of water heaters connected in parallel is shown;

[0039] Figure 4 This specification shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a water heater provided in this manual;

[0040] Figure 5 This instruction manual shows a schematic diagram of another type of water heater.

[0041] Figure 6 This specification shows a structural diagram of yet another type of water heater provided in this manual;

[0042] Figure 7 This instruction manual shows a schematic diagram of the outer end of the water heater.

[0043] Figure 8 A flowchart of a water heater control method provided in this specification is shown;

[0044] Figure 9 This is a graph showing the changes in water discharge time, hot water temperature, inlet water temperature, and mixing water temperature during the water discharge process of an electric water heater.

[0045] Figure 10 for Figure 9A graph showing the change in water discharge time and temperature when the power is turned off after the water temperature reaches 40 degrees Celsius and the water is discharged.

[0046] The reference numerals in the above figures are as follows: 10-first inner liner; 101-inlet of the first inner liner; 102-outlet of the first inner liner; 20-second inner liner; 22-heat exchanger; 221-inlet of the heat exchanger; 222-outlet of the heat exchanger; 30-switching device; 40-temperature control valve; L1-first connecting device; L2-second connecting device. Detailed Implementation

[0047] The details of the present invention can be more clearly understood by referring to the accompanying drawings and the description of specific embodiments. However, the specific embodiments of the present invention described herein are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the invention in any way. Under the teachings of this invention, those skilled in the art can conceive of any possible modifications based on the invention, all of which should be considered within the scope of the invention. It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is referred to as being "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be interpreted broadly, for example, they can refer to mechanical or electrical connections, or internal communication between two elements, and can be direct or indirect connections through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms according to the specific circumstances. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only embodiments.

[0048] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0049] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the water heater provided in this specification includes a first inner tank 10 for storing water, a first heating element for heating the water in the first inner tank 10, a second inner tank 20 for containing a phase change material, a second heating element for heating the phase change material in the second inner tank 20, and a heat exchanger 22 disposed in the second inner tank 20 for exchanging heat with the phase change material. The heat exchanger 22 has an inlet 221 for water inlet and an outlet 222 for water outlet.

[0050] The inlet 101 of the first inner tank 10 is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet 102 of the first inner tank 10 is used to output hot water; and / or, the inlet 221 of the heat exchanger 22 is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22 is used to output hot water. Specifically, the water connection method can be... Figures 1 to 3 Any one of the three schemes shown. Figures 4 to 6 Is Figure 3 This is a further improvement on the waterway connection scheme shown.

[0051] For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the inlet 101 of the first inner tank 10 is connected to the water supply pipe, the outlet 102 of the first inner tank 10 is used to output hot water, and the inlet 221 of the heat exchanger 22 is connected to the water supply pipe, and the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22 is used to output hot water. That is, the water supplied by the water supply pipe flows into the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20 simultaneously, and the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20 simultaneously provide hot water to the user. In this case, the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20 form a parallel structure.

[0052] Compared to the second inner tank 20 independently providing hot water to the user, the parallel structure results in a slower water flow rate and longer heat exchange time in the heat exchanger 22 of the second inner tank 20. This allows it to absorb more heat from the phase change material, leading to a higher temperature of the water flowing out of the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22. Therefore, when the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20 are connected in parallel, the time it takes for the water temperature from the second inner tank 20 to reach the user's required water temperature is longer.

[0053] Compared to the first inner tank 20 independently providing hot water to the user, the water flow rate in the first inner tank 10 is slower in the parallel structure, and the heating power required to heat the cold water in the first inner tank 10 to the predetermined temperature is lower, thus reducing the power demand on the first heating element.

[0054] like Figure 1 The inlet 101 of the first inner tank 10 is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the first inner tank 10 is used to output hot water.

[0055] like Figure 2 As shown, the inlet 221 of the heat exchanger 22 is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22 is used to output hot water.

[0056] For example, in summer when users shower for shorter periods or when fewer households are home for a period, the hot water supplied by one inner tank may be sufficient. In such cases, a different approach can be adopted. Figure 1 or Figure 2 The waterway connection method is shown.

[0057] exist Figures 1 to 6In the diagram, different lines indicate changes in water temperature. A represents water supplied by the water supply pipe, B represents water flowing out of outlet 102 of heat exchanger 22, C represents water flowing out of outlet 102 of the first inner tank 10, and D represents water in the water supply pipe. Cold water A supplied by the water supply pipe enters the heat exchanger 22 of the second inner tank 20 and exchanges heat with the phase change material, gradually increasing in temperature to become hot water B. Cold water A supplied by the water supply pipe enters the first inner tank 10 and is heated to obtain hot water C. Hot water B and hot water C are mixed with cold water A supplied by the water supply pipe in the thermostatic valve 30 to obtain constant temperature water D that meets the user's water temperature requirements. Figures 1 to 6 The water bladder in the middle is also the first inner bladder 10.

[0058] Although Figures 2 to 4 In the heat exchanger 22, cold water A flows through one half of the pipes, and phase-change hot water B flows through the other half. This diagram is only used to illustrate that the temperature of cold water A gradually increases as it flows through heat exchanger B. Figures 2 to 4 This does not imply a limitation on the temperature of the water flowing through the pipes in each part of the heat exchanger 22.

[0059] The second inner tank 20 has a cavity for filling with phase change material. Phase change material refers to a substance that changes its shape with temperature and provides latent heat. The phase change material described in this specification refers to a substance whose heat storage capacity per unit volume is higher than that of water, excluding water. By using phase change material to store heat in a portion of the water heater's space, the water heater can pre-store more heat without changing its volume, thus providing users with a larger volume of hot water and for a longer period.

[0060] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the water heater may include a switching device 30, which is used to adjust the ratio of water flowing out of the water supply pipe into the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20.

[0061] The "ratio" can include M:N, where M and N are both positive numbers. M and N can be integers or decimals. That is, when water flowing out of the water supply pipe flows into the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20 at the same time (i.e., when the water heater is in the first working state), the switching device 30 can adjust the ratio of water flowing into the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20.

[0062] The "ratio" may also include 1:0 or 0:1. When the ratio is 1:0, the water flowing out of the water supply pipe flows into the first inner tank 10 and not into the second inner tank 20; when the ratio is 0:1, the water flowing out of the water supply pipe flows into the second inner tank 20 and not into the first inner tank 10.

[0063] In some cases, the switching device 30 can determine whether to switch states based on the operating duration of each state.

[0064] In other cases, the switching device 30 can adjust the flow rate ratio of water flowing from the water supply line into the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20 based on the temperature of the water flowing out of the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22. Accordingly, the water heater may include a temperature sensor for obtaining the temperature of the water flowing out of the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22, and the switching device 30 adjusts the flow rate ratio of water flowing from the water supply line into the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20 based on the detection result of the temperature sensor.

[0065] The switching device 30 may have any one or more combinations of the first state, the second state, and the third state.

[0066] When the switching device 30 is in the first working state, the inlet 101 of the first inner tank 10 is connected to the water supply pipeline, the outlet 102 of the first inner tank 10 is used to output hot water, and the inlet 221 of the heat exchanger 22 is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22 is used to output hot water.

[0067] When the switching device 30 is in the second working state, the inlet 101 of the first inner tank 10 is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the first inner tank 10 is used to output hot water.

[0068] When the switching device 30 is in the third working state, the inlet 221 of the heat exchanger 22 is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22 is used to output hot water.

[0069] In some embodiments, the switching device 30 may be disposed on the inlet side of the first inner liner 10 and the second inner liner 20. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the switching device 30 can be connected to the water inlet 101 of the first inner tank 10, the inlet 221 of the heat exchanger 22, and the water supply pipeline, so that water in the water supply pipeline flows into the first inner tank 10 and / or the second inner tank 20.

[0070] Furthermore, such as Figure 4 As shown, the outlet 102 of the first inner tank 10 and the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22 are used to connect to the thermostatic valve 40, which can also be connected to the water supply pipeline and the water supply pipeline.

[0071] The thermostatic valve 40 can be installed inside the water heater, as part of the water heater. In other embodiments, the thermostatic valve 40 can also be installed outside the water heater, as a device used in conjunction with the water heater. For example, the thermostatic valve 40 can be a temperature regulating device in a shower room or a washbasin.

[0072] like Figure 4As shown, the thermostatic valve 40 may include a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet, and a mixing outlet. The hot water inlet is connected to the outlet 102 of the first inner tank 10 and the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22. The cold water inlet is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the mixing outlet is connected to the water usage pipeline. The thermostatic valve 40 is used to mix water from the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet and supply the mixed water to the mixing outlet.

[0073] In other embodiments, the switching device 30 may be located on the outlet side of the first inner liner 10 and the second inner liner 20. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the switching device 30 can be connected to the outlet 102 of the first inner tank 10, the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22, and the water pipe, so that the water flowing out of the first inner tank 10 and / or the second inner tank 20 flows to the water pipe.

[0074] Since the water in the first inner tank 10 and the heat exchanger 22 flows under water pressure, the switching device 30 is installed on the outlet side of the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20 to control whether the water in the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20 flows. When the water in the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20 does not flow, it will naturally not flow into the water pipes.

[0075] Furthermore, such as Figure 6 As shown, a thermostatic valve 40 is installed on the water supply pipeline, and the thermostatic valve 40 can also be connected to the water supply pipeline.

[0076] The thermostatic valve includes a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet, and a mixing outlet. The hot water inlet is used to receive water flowing out of the first inner tank 10 and / or the second inner tank 20, the cold water inlet is used to receive water flowing out of the water supply pipeline, and the mixing outlet is used to discharge mixed water.

[0077] The “switching device” mentioned in this specification can be a flow switching valve or a combination of at least two solenoid valves and pipelines.

[0078] In some embodiments, the water heater includes a thermostatic valve 40, which includes a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet, and a mixing outlet. The hot water inlet is connected to the outlet 102 of the first inner tank 10 and the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22, the cold water inlet is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the mixing outlet is connected to the water supply pipeline.

[0079] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the hot water inlet of the thermostatic valve 40 can also be connected to the hot water output terminal of the gas water heater. When neither the first inner tank 10 nor the second inner tank 20 can provide hot water that meets the user's temperature requirements, a gas water heater can be used to provide hot water, thereby increasing the duration of continuous hot water supply and meeting the user's need for long-term continuous hot water use.

[0080] The gas-fired water heater of this application refers to a device that obtains hot water by burning gas and adding cold water. For example, the gas-fired water heater can be a gas water heater commonly used in households.

[0081] In some embodiments, a first heating element may be disposed in the lower middle part of the first inner tank 10 for heating the water stored in the first inner tank 10. The first heating element may be an electric heating element, an air source heat pump heating element, or a phase change material heating element.

[0082] Preferably, the first heating element is an electric heating rod. Electric heating rods are characterized by their small size, simple structure, and high heating efficiency, enabling high-power heating with a relatively small footprint in the first inner tank 10, thus ensuring a longer hot water supply time for the water heater.

[0083] In some embodiments, the second heating element for heating the phase change material in the second inner liner 20 can be an electric heating element, an air source heat pump heating element, or a phase change material heating element. The second heating element can be positioned at any location within the second inner liner 20, depending on its structure.

[0084] Preferably, the second heating element can be an electric heating rod. Electric heating rods are small in size and simple in structure, occupying less space in the second inner liner 20, thus leaving more space for filling the phase change material. Since heat diffuses upwards, the electric heating rod, as the second heating element, can be positioned in the lower middle part of the second inner liner 20 to improve heating efficiency.

[0085] The second heating element may extend in a straight line. The heat exchanger 22 may include multiple connected heat exchange tubes arranged substantially parallel to the second heating element.

[0086] The first heating element is located in the lower middle part of the first inner tank 10, and the second heating element is located in the lower middle part of the second inner tank 20, which can improve heating efficiency and shorten the time users wait for water.

[0087] Taking the first inner tank 10 as an example, during the process of the first heating element heating the water in the first inner tank 10, the water temperature in the inner tank will be stratified along the height direction. Specifically, along the height direction, the temperature gradually decreases from top to bottom, that is, the water with a higher temperature is located in the upper part of the first inner tank 10, and the water with a lower temperature is located in the lower part of the first inner tank 10. When the first heating element 10 is located in the lower middle part of the lower temperature region, it can heat this part of the water in time, so that the average water temperature of the whole tank is efficiently close to the target water temperature.

[0088] In some embodiments, the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20 can be two elongated cylinders of substantially the same length, arranged in parallel, so that the water heater is also elongated. The ends of the water heater refer to the two cross-sectional ends of the elongated shape of the water heater; that is, the water heater has two ends. Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the outer end of the water heater is shown. The inlet 101 and outlet 102 of the first inner tank 10 are located at the end of the first inner tank 10, and the inlet 221 and outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22 are located at the end of the second inner tank 20. Furthermore, the inlet 101 and outlet 102 of the first inner tank 10, the inlet 221 and outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22 are all located on the same side. This arrangement facilitates water heater maintenance and installation, and also allows for full utilization of the water heater space to accommodate the first and second inner tanks.

[0089] The water heater described in this manual includes a first inner tank for storing water, a first heating element for heating the water in the first inner tank, a second inner tank for containing a phase change material, a second heating element for heating the phase change material in the second inner tank, and a heat exchanger disposed in the second inner tank for exchanging heat with the phase change material. The inlet of the first inner tank is connected to the water supply pipe, and the outlet of the first inner tank is used to output hot water; and / or the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the water supply pipe, and the outlet of the water heater is used to output hot water. The water heater described in this manual has multiple water circuit connection methods, thus enabling multiple operating states. By switching between these operating states, the amount of hot water continuously supplied by the water heater to meet the user's water temperature requirements can be increased.

[0090] This specification also provides a parallel-connected water heater, which falls under the aforementioned first operating state. Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a water heater connected in parallel is shown.

[0091] like Figure 3 As shown, this parallel-connected water heater includes a first inner tank 10 for storing water, a first heating element for heating the water in the first inner tank 10, a second inner tank 20 for containing a phase change material, a second heating element for heating the phase change material in the second inner tank 20, and a heat exchanger 22 disposed in the second inner tank 20 for exchanging heat with the phase change material. The heat exchanger 22 has an inlet 221 for water inlet and an outlet 222 for water outlet. The first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20 are connected in parallel.

[0092] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes a first connecting device L1, which includes a first port, a second port, and a third port. The first port is connected to a water supply pipe, the second port is connected to the water inlet 101 of the first inner tank 10, and the third port is connected to the inlet 221 of the heat exchanger 22. The first connecting device L1 may be a tee connector, or it may be a combination of a tee connector and a switching valve.

[0093] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes a second connecting device L2, which includes a first port, a second port, and a third port. The first port is connected to a water pipe, the second port is connected to the outlet 102 of the first inner tank 10, and the third port is connected to the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22. The second connecting device L2 may be a tee connector, or it may be a combination of a tee connector and a switching valve.

[0094] For the water heater with the switching device 30 described above, this specification provides a control method for the water heater. For example... Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the water heater with switching device 30 includes a first inner tank 10 for storing water, a first heating element for heating the water in the first inner tank 10, a second inner tank 20 for containing a phase change material, a second heating element for heating the phase change material in the second inner tank 20, and a heat exchanger 22 disposed in the second inner tank 20 for exchanging heat with the phase change material. The switching device 30 is used to adjust the ratio of water flowing from the water supply pipe into the first inner tank 10 and the second inner tank 20.

[0095] Regarding the aforementioned water heater with switchable operating states, this specification provides a control method for the water heater. The method includes: when a first preset condition is met, controlling the switching device 30 to be in a first state, such that the inlet 101 of the first inner tank 10 is connected to the water supply pipeline, hot water is output from the outlet of the first inner tank 10, and the inlet 221 of the heat exchanger 22 is connected to the water supply pipeline, and hot water is output from the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22.

[0096] The aforementioned first preset condition may be that the switching device 30 operates in the second or third state for a certain predetermined time, or that the water temperature at a certain point in the water circuit of the water heater reaches a certain preset temperature.

[0097] The control method for the water heater also includes: when the second preset condition is met, the control switching device 30 is in the second state so that the inlet 101 of the first inner tank 10 is connected to the water supply pipeline and the outlet 102 of the first inner tank 10 outputs hot water.

[0098] The aforementioned second preset condition may be that the switching device 30 operates in the first state or the second state for a certain predetermined time, or that the water temperature at a certain point in the water circuit of the water heater reaches a certain preset temperature.

[0099] The control method for the water heater also includes: when the third preset condition is met, the control switching device 30 is in the third state so that the inlet 221 of the heat exchanger 22 is connected to the water supply pipeline and the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22 outputs hot water.

[0100] The aforementioned third preset condition may be that the switching device 30 operates in the first state or the second state for a certain predetermined time, or that the water temperature at a certain point in the water circuit of the water heater reaches a certain preset temperature.

[0101] The "predetermined duration" corresponding to each of the above states can be the same or different; the "water temperature" corresponding to each of the above states can be the water temperature at the same location in the waterway or the water temperature at different locations in the waterway; the "preset temperature" corresponding to each of the above states can be the same temperature value or different temperature values.

[0102] Whether the switching device 30 switches to each state can be determined entirely based on the aforementioned working time, or it can be determined based on the working time of a specific state, while the temperature is used to determine whether to switch to other states. For example, whether to switch to the first state is determined based on the working time, while whether to switch to the second or third state is determined based on the temperature.

[0103] When determining whether the switching device 30 should switch states based on the working duration, the state to which it should switch can be predetermined.

[0104] In some embodiments, when the water heater starts discharging water, a second preset condition is met, and the control switching device 30 operates in a second state; the outlet water temperature of the first inner tank 10 is lower than the first preset temperature or the water temperature inside the first inner tank 10 (e.g., Figures 4 to 6 When T1 shown is lower than the second preset temperature, the third preset condition is met, the first heating element in the first inner liner 10 is controlled to start heating, and the switching device 30 is controlled to switch to the third state of operation.

[0105] If there is a long time interval between the current water discharge and the previous water discharge, and the first inner tank 10 has pre-stored hot water before the current water discharge, then when the water heater starts discharging, it can be controlled to first use the first inner tank 10 to provide hot water to the user. That is, the second preset condition can be that the water heater starts discharging.

[0106] Before the water heater starts discharging water, a large amount of hot water (e.g., 70°C) is pre-stored in the first inner tank 10. When the switching device 30 is in the second state, water supplied by the water supply pipe enters the first inner tank 10, pushing out the hot water in the first inner tank 10 for use by the user. Since the temperature of the cold water supplied by the water supply pipe is relatively low (e.g., 10°C), the temperature of the water in the first inner tank 10 will gradually decrease as the switching device 30 operates in the second state for a longer period of time.

[0107] When the outlet water temperature of the first inner tank 10 is lower than the first preset temperature or the water temperature inside the first inner tank 10 is lower than the second preset temperature, the third preset condition is met, the switching device 30 switches to the third state, and at the same time the first heating element in the first inner tank 10 can start heating so as to increase the water temperature in the first inner tank 10 while providing hot water to the user using the second inner tank 10.

[0108] When the switching device 30 is in the third state, the water supplied by the water supply pipeline is provided to the user after heat exchange in the heat exchanger 22. In the initial stage of switching the switching device 30 to the third state, a lot of heat is stored in the phase change material, and the temperature difference between the phase change material and the water in the heat exchanger 22 is large, resulting in high heat exchange efficiency. Therefore, the temperature of the water flowing out of the heat exchanger 22 is high (e.g., 70°C), which means that the hot water that can be provided to the user at this time is at a high temperature.

[0109] As the cumulative amount of hot water provided to the user by the switching device 30 in the third state increases, the residual heat stored in the phase change material decreases, the temperature difference between the phase change material and the water in the heat exchanger 22 decreases, the heat exchange efficiency decreases, and the temperature of the water flowing out of the heat exchanger 22 gradually decreases (e.g., 39°C), approaching or possibly slightly below the required water temperature (e.g., 40°C). In this situation, if the switching device 30 continues to operate in the third state, it may not be able to provide the user with hot water that meets the user's temperature requirements. Therefore, the switching device 30 can be controlled to switch to the first state. Thus, when the outlet water temperature of the heat exchanger 22 is lower than the third preset temperature, the first preset condition is met.

[0110] When the switching device 30 is in the first state, cold water supplied by the water supply pipeline simultaneously enters the first inner tank 10 and the heat exchanger 22, and the first inner tank 10 and the heat exchanger 22 simultaneously provide hot water to the user, that is, the first inner tank 10 and the heat exchanger 22 form a parallel structure. In the parallel structure, the first inner tank 10 shares part of the water flow supplied by the water supply pipeline, resulting in a smaller water flow in the heat exchanger 22 and a longer heat exchange time, thereby increasing the temperature of the water flowing out of the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22 (for example, from 39°C to 42°C). The water flowing out of the outlet 222 of the heat exchanger 22 mixes with the water flowing out of the first inner tank 10 and is then provided to the user.

[0111] In some embodiments, the inlet flow rate ratio or outlet flow rate ratio of the first inner tank 10 and the heat exchanger 22 is adjustable. Therefore, when the switching device is operating in the first state, adjusting the inlet flow rate ratio or outlet flow rate ratio of the first inner tank 10 and the heat exchanger 22 controls the temperature of the mixed water from the first inner tank 10 and the heat exchanger 22 to be greater than or equal to a fourth preset temperature. Specifically, the inlet flow rate ratio or outlet flow rate ratio can be adjusted according to the temperature of the mixed water from the first inner tank 10 and the heat exchanger 22, or it can be adjusted according to a pre-stored correspondence between the inlet flow rate ratio or outlet flow rate ratio and the temperature of the mixed water.

[0112] In some cases, the temperature of the water coming from the first inner tank 10 and the water coming from the heat exchanger 22 may be too low to guarantee that the hot water provided by the water heater meets the user's water temperature requirements. In this case, the switching device 30 can be controlled to switch to the second state, that is, only the first inner tank 10 is used to provide hot water to the user. Therefore, when the temperature of the water coming from the first inner tank and the water coming from the heat exchanger is lower than the fourth preset temperature, the second preset condition is met.

[0113] Specifically, during the operation of the switching device 30 in the first state, the inlet flow rate ratio or outlet flow rate ratio of the first inner tank 10 and the heat exchanger 22 is continuously adjusted to ensure that the temperature of the water after mixing with the water from the first inner tank 10 and the heat exchanger 22 is greater than or equal to the user's water temperature (e.g., 40 degrees Celsius). As the amount of hot water provided by the water heater increases, the switching device 30 in the first state can no longer output enough water to meet the user's water temperature requirements. In this case, the second preset condition is met, and the switching device 30 is controlled to operate in the second state.

[0114] The switching device 30 then enters the second state again, pushing out the warmer water from the upper layer of the first inner tank to provide for the user, until the temperature of the water discharged from the water heater falls below a preset temperature (the temperature suitable for the user's use, such as 40°C). At this point, the water discharge ends. It should be noted that "water discharge ends" here means the water heater cannot provide hot water that meets the user's temperature requirements, not that it cannot provide water at all.

[0115] In the above embodiment, the water heater operates in the second state first, which quickly activates the first heating element in the first inner tank 10. The earlier the first heating element starts operating, the more heat it can provide, thus enabling the water heater to supply more hot water. When the switching device 30 is in the first state, since the water in the first inner tank 10 has already been heated to hot water (e.g., 70°C), even if the temperature of the water flowing out of the heat exchanger 22 is lower (e.g., 20°C, 12°C, etc.), hot water that meets the user's water needs can be obtained by mixing the water flowing out of the heat exchanger 22 with the water flowing out of the first inner tank 10. Therefore, in this case, the heat in the phase change material can be fully utilized.

[0116] It should be noted that, apart from the water heater starting to release water, the second preset condition can be met under other circumstances. For example, since water in the supply pipe flows into the first inner tank 10 during the process of the water heater outputting hot water, and the first heating element also heats the water in the first inner tank 10, the second preset condition can also be met when: during the process of the water heater releasing water, the temperature of the water flowing out of the outlet 102 of the first inner tank 10 is equal to or higher than the preset temperature.

[0117] When the switching device 30 is in the third state, the first heating element is heating. When the water in the first inner tank 10 is heated to a preset temperature, the switching device 30 can also be controlled to switch to the second state. That is, the second preset condition can also be met when the water temperature in the first inner tank 10 reaches a preset temperature.

[0118] In some cases, switching the switching device to any of the first, second, or third states fails to ensure that the water temperature supplied by the water heater to the water pipes reaches the fifth preset temperature. To address this, the water heater control method provided in this manual can control the hot water output of the gas water heater to supply hot water to the user's pipes.

[0119] The fifth preset temperature can be equal to the fourth preset temperature, or slightly higher or lower than the fourth preset temperature. That is, the difference between the fifth preset temperature and the fourth preset temperature is within the predetermined temperature threshold.

[0120] Normally, the time interval between the current water discharge and the previous water discharge is relatively long. This time is sufficient for the water volume in the first inner tank 10 to reach the preset volume and for the first heating element to heat the water to the preset temperature. Therefore, the normal operating process of the water heater can be as follows: Figure 8 As shown, it includes the following steps:

[0121] S10: When the water heater starts discharging water, the control switching device is in the second state.

[0122] S20: When the water temperature at the outlet of the first inner tank is lower than the first preset temperature or when the water temperature inside the first inner tank is lower than the second preset temperature, control the first heating element in the first inner tank to start heating, and control the switching device to switch to the third state.

[0123] S30: When the outlet water temperature of the heat exchanger is lower than the third preset temperature, control the switching device to switch to the first state.

[0124] S40: When the temperature of the water coming out of the first inner tank and the water coming out of the heat exchanger is lower than the fourth preset temperature, control the water heater to switch to the second state of operation.

[0125] S50: If the water temperature supplied by the water heater to the water pipe cannot reach the fifth preset temperature when the switching device is switched to any of the first, second, or third states, the hot water output terminal of the gas water heater is controlled to supply hot water to the water pipe.

[0126] Figure 8 For a detailed description of each step, please refer to the descriptions in other parts of this manual, which will not be repeated here.

[0127] In one embodiment, the water heater may further include a first temperature probe assembly for acquiring the water temperature in the first inner tank 10; a second temperature probe assembly for acquiring the temperature of the phase change material in the second inner tank 20; and a controller electrically connected to the first temperature probe assembly and the second temperature probe assembly, wherein the controller controls the operating state of the first heating element and the second heating element based on the temperature information detected by the first temperature probe assembly and the second temperature probe assembly.

[0128] In this embodiment, a first temperature probe assembly may be provided in the first inner tank 10, which is used to acquire the water temperature in the first inner tank 10. Specifically, the first temperature probe assembly may include a first temperature probe and a second temperature probe. The first temperature probe and the second temperature probe may be arranged at intervals along the height direction in the first inner tank 10. Through the temperature data acquired by the first temperature probe and the second temperature probe, the controller can determine the current water temperature in the first inner tank 10, thereby controlling the working state of the first heating element. The working state of the first heating element mainly includes starting heating or stopping heating.

[0129] The second inner liner 20 may be equipped with a second temperature probe assembly for acquiring the temperature of the phase change material within the second inner liner 20. Specifically, the second temperature probe assembly may include a third temperature probe and a fourth temperature probe. The third and fourth temperature probes may be spaced apart along the height direction within the second inner liner 20. Using the temperature data acquired by the third and fourth temperature probes, the controller can determine the current temperature of the phase change material within the second inner liner 20, thereby controlling the operating state of the second heating element. The operating state of the second heating element mainly includes starting heating or stopping heating.

[0130] The controller can control the working state of the first heating element based on the temperature information detected by the first temperature probe assembly, and control the working state of the second heating element based on the temperature information detected by the second temperature probe assembly.

[0131] The controller can also control the working state of the first heating element by combining the temperature information detected by the first temperature probe assembly and the second temperature probe assembly, and control the working state of the second heating element by combining the temperature information detected by the first temperature probe assembly and the second temperature probe assembly.

[0132] In this specification, "controlling the working state of the first heating element" refers to controlling under what conditions the first heating element starts heating and under what conditions it stops heating, and "controlling the working state of the second heating element" refers to controlling under what conditions the second heating element starts heating and under what conditions it stops heating.

[0133] For example, in a certain application scenario, after the water temperature in the first inner tank 10 and the temperature of the phase change material in the second inner tank 20 are both heated to a preset temperature, both the first heating element and the second heating element are in a stopped heating state. Subsequently, if a user water usage signal is received, the probe assembly continuously monitors the temperature. If the second temperature probe detects a decrease in water temperature by a first preset temperature difference, the second heating element can be activated to heat the water; if the first temperature probe detects a decrease in water temperature by a second preset temperature difference, the first heating element can be activated to heat the water.

[0134] Please refer to the following: Figure 9 and Figure 10 The inventors of this application discovered that: when an existing electric water heater continuously discharges water at a flow rate of 7L / min, a water temperature of 10℃, and a user-set outlet water temperature of 40℃, the area indicated by the arrow represents the energy that the electric water heater can still release, but this energy cannot be used by the user. Figure 10 The energy in it is heat.

[0135] This invention combines a second inner tank 20 incorporating phase change material with a first inner tank 10 for containing water, forming a phase change + water tank hybrid system. This system fully utilizes 15%-20% of the energy from the phase change material below 40 degrees Celsius, increasing the hot water output by over 75% compared to electric water heaters of the same capacity. Furthermore, compared to pure phase change systems, this application reduces costs by at least 30%. Additionally, since the second inner tank 20 incorporating phase change material does not require an anode rod, an electronic anode can be installed only on the first inner tank 10, thus ensuring a longer service life for the water heater's inner tank.

[0136] The various embodiments described in this specification are presented in a progressive manner. The same or similar parts between the embodiments can be referred to each other. Each embodiment focuses on the differences from other embodiments.

[0137] Any numerical values ​​cited herein include all values ​​ranging from a lower limit to an upper limit, increasing by one unit, with at least two units between any lower and any higher value. For example, if the quantity of a component or a process variable (e.g., temperature, pressure, time, etc.) is described as ranging from 1 to 90, preferably from 20 to 80, more preferably from 30 to 70, it is intended to illustrate that values ​​such as 15 to 85, 22 to 68, 43 to 51, 30 to 32 are also explicitly listed in this specification. For values ​​less than 1, a unit is appropriately considered to be 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, etc. These are merely examples intended for explicit expression, and it can be assumed that all possible combinations of values ​​listed between the minimum and maximum values ​​are similarly explicitly stated in this specification.

[0138] Unless otherwise stated, all ranges include the endpoints and all numbers between them. The terms "approximately" or "about" used with ranges apply to both endpoints of the range. Thus, "approximately 20 to 30" is intended to cover "approximately 20 to approximately 30," including at least the specified endpoints.

[0139] All articles and references disclosed herein, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated herein by reference for various purposes. The term “substantially constitutes…” used to describe a combination should include the identified elements, components, parts, or steps, as well as other elements, components, parts, or steps that do not substantially affect the essential novelty of the combination. The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” to describe combinations of elements, components, parts, or steps herein also contemplates embodiments substantially constituted by such elements, components, parts, or steps. The use of the term “may” herein is intended to indicate that any described attribute included by “may” is optional.

[0140] Multiple elements, components, parts, or steps can be provided by a single integrated element, component, part, or step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, component, part, or step can be divided into multiple separate elements, components, parts, or steps. The use of "a" or "an" to describe an element, component, part, or step does not imply the exclusion of other elements, components, parts, or steps.

[0141] The above descriptions are merely a few embodiments of the present invention. Although the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are as described above, the content is only for the purpose of facilitating understanding of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art to which this invention pertains may make any modifications and changes in the form and details of the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope disclosed in the present invention. However, the patent protection scope of the present invention shall still be determined by the scope defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A water heater, characterized by, include: The first inner tank used for water storage; A first heating element for heating the water in the first inner tank; A second inner liner for containing phase change materials; A second heating element for heating the phase change material in the second inner liner; A heat exchanger is disposed in the second inner liner for absorbing heat from the phase change material, the heat exchanger having an inlet for water intake and an outlet for water discharge; The inlet of the first inner tank is used to connect to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the first inner tank is used to output hot water; the inlet of the heat exchanger is used to connect to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the heat exchanger is used to output hot water. The water heater also includes a switching device, which has at least a first state and a third state; When the switching device is in the first state, the inlet of the first inner tank is connected to the water supply pipeline, the outlet of the first inner tank outputs hot water, and the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the heat exchanger outputs hot water. When the switching device is in the third state, the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the heat exchanger outputs hot water; The switching device can operate in the third state and switch to the first state when the outlet water temperature of the heat exchanger is less than a preset temperature. The switching device is used to adjust the ratio of water flowing from the water supply pipe into the first inner tank and the second inner tank in the first state.

2. The water heater of claim 1, wherein The switching device also includes a second state. When the switching device is in the second state, the inlet of the first inner tank is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the first inner tank outputs hot water.

3. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The switching device can be connected to the water inlet of the first inner tank, the inlet of the heat exchanger, and the water supply pipeline, so that water in the water supply pipeline flows into the first inner tank and / or the second inner tank.

4. The water heater according to claim 3, characterized in that, The outlet of the first inner tank and the outlet of the heat exchanger are connected to a temperature control valve, which can also be connected to a water supply pipeline and a water usage pipeline.

5. The water heater according to claim 4, characterized in that, The temperature control valve includes a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet, and a mixing outlet. The hot water inlet is connected to the outlet of the first inner tank and the outlet of the heat exchanger. The cold water inlet is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the mixing outlet is connected to the water supply pipeline. The temperature control valve is used to mix water from the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet and supply the mixed water to the mixing outlet.

6. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The switching device can be connected to the outlet of the first inner tank, the outlet of the heat exchanger, and the water pipe, so that the water flowing out of the first inner tank and / or the second inner tank flows to the water pipe.

7. The water heater according to claim 6, characterized in that, A temperature control valve is installed on the water supply pipeline, and the temperature control valve can also be connected to the water supply pipeline.

8. The water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that, The temperature control valve includes a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet, and a mixing outlet. The hot water inlet is used to receive water flowing out of the first inner tank and / or the second inner tank, and the cold water inlet is used to receive water flowing out of the water supply pipeline. The temperature control valve is used to mix the water from the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet to obtain mixed water, and the mixing outlet is used to input the mixed water into the water supply pipeline.

9. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The switching device includes: a flow switching valve, or at least two solenoid valves.

10. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water heater also includes a thermostatic valve, which includes a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet, and a mixing outlet. The hot water inlet can be connected to the outlet of the first inner tank and the outlet of the heat exchanger; The cold water inlet can be connected to the water supply pipeline; The mixing outlet can be connected to the water supply pipeline.

11. The water heater according to claim 10, characterized in that, The hot water inlet of the temperature control valve can also be connected to the hot water output terminal of the gas-fired water heater.

12. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A temperature sensing element, used to acquire the temperature of the water flowing out of the heat exchanger; The switching device adjusts the ratio of water flowing from the water supply pipe into the first inner tank and the second inner tank based on the detection result of the temperature detection element.

13. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the first heating element and the second heating element are electric heating elements. The first heating element is located in the lower middle part of the first inner liner, and the second heating element is located in the lower middle part of the second inner liner.

14. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water heater also includes: A first temperature probe assembly for obtaining the water temperature in the first inner tank; A second temperature probe assembly for obtaining the temperature of the phase change material in the second inner liner; A controller electrically connected to the first temperature probe assembly and the second temperature probe assembly controls the operating state of the first heating element and the second heating element based on the temperature information detected by the first temperature probe assembly and the second temperature probe assembly.

15. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inlet and outlet of the first inner tank are located at the end of the first inner tank, and the inlet and outlet of the heat exchanger are located at the end of the second inner tank. The inlet, outlet, inlet, and outlet of the first inner tank are located on the same side.

16. A method for controlling a water heater, characterized in that, The water heater includes: The first inner tank used for water storage; A first heating element for heating the water in the first inner tank; A second inner liner for containing phase change materials; A second heating element for heating the phase change material in the second inner liner; A heat exchanger is provided in the second inner liner for absorbing heat from the phase change material; A switching device is used to adjust the ratio of water flowing out of the water supply pipe into the first inner tank and the second inner tank; the switching device has at least a first state and a third state. The control method includes: The switching device is controlled to operate in a third state, so that the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the water supply pipeline, and the outlet of the heat exchanger outputs hot water. When the outlet water temperature of the heat exchanger is lower than the third preset temperature, thus satisfying the first preset condition, the switching device is controlled to switch to the first state, so that the inlet of the first inner tank is connected to the water supply pipeline, the outlet of the first inner tank outputs hot water, the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the water supply pipeline, the outlet of the heat exchanger outputs hot water, and the switching device is controlled to adjust the ratio of water flowing from the water supply pipeline into the first inner tank and the second inner tank.

17. The control method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The control method includes: when a second preset condition is met, controlling the switching device to be in a second state so that the inlet of the first inner tank is connected to the water supply pipeline and the outlet of the first inner tank outputs hot water.

18. The control method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The control method further includes: when a third preset condition is met, controlling the switching device to be in a third state so that the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the water supply pipeline and the outlet of the heat exchanger outputs hot water.

19. The control method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The control method further includes: when a third preset condition is met, controlling the switching device to be in a third state so that the inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the water supply pipeline and the outlet of the heat exchanger outputs hot water.

20. The control method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The control method includes: When the water heater starts discharging water, the second preset condition is met, and the switching device is controlled to operate in the second state. When the outlet water temperature of the first inner tank is lower than the first preset temperature or the water temperature inside the first inner tank is lower than the second preset temperature, the third preset condition is met, the first heating element in the first inner tank is controlled to start heating, and the switching device is controlled to switch to the third state of operation.

21. The control method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The control method further includes: When the temperature of the water coming out of the first inner tank and the water coming out of the heat exchanger is lower than the fourth preset temperature, the second preset condition is met, and the water heater is controlled to switch to the second state of operation.

22. The control method according to claim 21, characterized in that, When the switching device is in the first state, the inlet flow rate ratio or outlet flow rate ratio of the first inner tank and the heat exchanger is adjusted to control the temperature of the water coming out of the first inner tank and the water coming out of the second inner tank after mixing to be greater than or equal to the fourth preset temperature.

23. The control method according to any one of claims 16-21, characterized in that, The control method includes: when the switching device cannot supply water to the water pipe at a temperature that reaches a fifth preset temperature when switching to any one of the first, second, or third states, controlling the hot water output terminal of the gas water heater to supply hot water to the water pipe.

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