Plug-in housing, gas water heater and plug-in housing processing method

Abstract

This invention belongs to the field of heating technology, specifically disclosing a plug-in housing, a gas water heater, and a method for processing the plug-in housing. The plug-in housing disclosed in this invention includes a bottom shell, two opposing first end plates, and two opposing second end plates. Both the first and second end plates are integrally formed with the bottom shell, and the first and second end plates surround the bottom shell to form a receiving cavity. One of the first and second end plates is provided with a plug-in hole, and the other is provided with a plug-in tooth. The plug-in tooth and the plug-in hole are correspondingly plugged in, and one side wall of the plug-in tooth abuts against either the first or second end plate. The plug-in housing structure of this invention is simple and can be mass-produced using automated processing equipment, giving the gas water heater both low processing cost and good sealing performance. The plug-in housing processing method is used to process the plug-in housing, offering a higher degree of automation, further reducing labor costs and improving production efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of heating technology, and more particularly to a plug-in housing, a gas water heater, and a method for processing the plug-in housing. Background Technology

[0002] Gas water heaters are a common type of heating equipment. They heat water by burning gas, transferring heat to cold water flowing through a heat exchanger to produce hot water. To accommodate the heat exchanger, burner, and water tank, existing gas water heaters typically use sheet metal parts as the base assembly. This base assembly consists of five structural components: a main body, an upper plate, a lower plate, a left side plate, and a right side plate, connected by welding or riveting. During actual manufacturing, due to the large number of components, manual alignment of the main body and the upper, lower, left, and right side plates is necessary to ensure accurate positioning between adjacent components. Furthermore, welding or riveting involves numerous steps, resulting in low production efficiency and tolerances between components. This often leads to unevenness on the four sides of the mating surface after welding or riveting, causing a decrease in sealing performance. To improve appearance quality, the relative fixation between adjacent components must be maintained throughout the welding or riveting process to prevent deformation. This results in low automation, further increasing labor costs and reducing production efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The first technical problem solved by this invention is to provide a plug-in housing with a simple structure, which can be mass-produced using automated processing equipment, has a smooth appearance, and good sealing performance.

[0004] The second technical problem solved by the present invention is to provide a gas water heater with a plug-in housing, which has the advantages of low processing cost and good sealing performance.

[0005] The third technical problem solved by this invention is to provide a method for processing plug-in housings, which is more automated, can further reduce labor costs, and improve production efficiency.

[0006] The first technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0007] A plug-in housing is provided, including:

[0008] Bottom shell;

[0009] Two first end plates and two second end plates are arranged opposite to each other. The first end plates and the second end plates are integrally formed with the bottom shell. The first end plates and the second end plates surround the bottom shell to form an accommodating cavity.

[0010] One of the first end plate and the second end plate is provided with a plug hole, and the other is provided with a plug tooth. The plug tooth and the plug hole are plugged in and engaged, and one side wall of the plug tooth abuts against the first end plate or the second end plate.

[0011] Compared with the prior art, the plug-in housing of the present invention has the following advantages: Both the first end plate and the second end plate are integrally formed with the bottom shell, allowing the first and second end plates to surround the bottom shell. Only bending operations are required. As long as the dimensional accuracy and cutting position accuracy of the sheet metal are ensured, there is no need for repeated manual adjustments to the relative positions of the first end plate, the second end plate, and the bottom shell, nor is it necessary to use manual assistance for positioning during processing. This results in a high degree of automation and improved production efficiency. Furthermore, there are no seams between the first end plate and the bottom shell, or between the second end plate and the bottom shell. The gap is improved, enhancing the sealing and waterproofing performance of the plug-in housing. The plug teeth pass through the plug holes and bend in the opposite direction, causing one side wall to abut against the second end plate. The plug teeth can partially block the plug holes, thereby increasing the sealing performance between the first and second end plates. This not only ensures a reliable connection between the first and second end plates, preventing loosening, but also simplifies the plugging and bending operations. It requires lower machining precision and tolerances between the first, second, and bottom plates, resulting in a high degree of automation. It can be mass-produced using automated equipment, improving production efficiency and reducing labor costs. Compared to welded or riveted structures, the plug-in housing of this invention has no welding slag, riveting burrs, or other process residues, thus maintaining an overall aesthetically pleasing and smooth appearance.

[0012] In one embodiment, the first end plate or the second end plate has a first flap formed by bending, and the insertion hole is disposed at the bend of the first flap, and the plurality of insertion holes are evenly spaced.

[0013] In one embodiment, the first flap fits against the outer side of the first end plate or the second end plate, and one side wall of the insertion tooth abuts against the first flap.

[0014] In one embodiment, the insertion tooth includes an extension transition section, a reverse bending section and a crimping section arranged sequentially. The crimping section crimps the first end plate or the second end plate through the reverse bending section, and the extension transition section extends away from the crimping section to block the insertion hole.

[0015] In one embodiment, the first end plate or the second end plate further includes an overlapping tooth, the overlapping tooth being disposed on one side of the insertion hole away from the insertion tooth, the overlapping tooth pressing against the insertion tooth to block the insertion hole.

[0016] In one embodiment, the first end plate or the second end plate is provided with a countersunk groove facing the receiving cavity, and the insertion teeth are received in the countersunk groove.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first end plate or the second end plate has a second flap formed by bending, the second flap fitting against the inner side of the first end plate, and the insertion teeth are disposed on the edge of the second flap to pass through the corresponding insertion holes.

[0018] The second technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0019] A gas water heater is provided, including a plug-in housing as described above, a combustion heat exchange assembly and a front panel, wherein the combustion heat exchange assembly is disposed within a receiving cavity of the plug-in housing, and the front panel is detachably connected to the plug-in housing to close the receiving cavity.

[0020] Compared with the prior art, the gas water heater of the present invention has the following advantages: The gas water heater adopts a plug-in shell, with its first end plate and second end plate integrally formed with the bottom shell. During assembly, repeated manual adjustments are unnecessary, resulting in a high degree of automation. The first and second end plates are fixed and connected through the plug-in engagement of plug teeth and plug holes. The plugging and bending operations of the plug teeth are simple, requiring lower processing precision and tolerances between the first end plate, second end plate, and bottom shell. This high degree of automation allows for batch processing using automated equipment, improving production efficiency and reducing labor costs. There are no gaps between the first end plate, second end plate, and bottom shell, and the plug teeth can seal the plug holes, resulting in good sealing performance of the gas water heater and effectively protecting the combustion heat exchange components within the housing.

[0021] The third technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0022] A method for manufacturing plug-in housings is provided, comprising the following steps:

[0023] Step S1: Cut the sheet material to form a bottom shell, two first end plates and two second end plates that are connected as one piece. The two first end plates and two second end plates are respectively connected to the four sides of the bottom shell.

[0024] Step S2: Process one of the first end plate and the second end plate to form a insertion hole, and process the other end plate to form an insertion tooth;

[0025] Step S3: Fold the two second end plates toward the first direction and fold the two first end plates toward the first direction respectively. At the same time, align the insertion hole with the insertion tooth so that the insertion tooth is inserted into the insertion hole.

[0026] Step S4: Bend the insertion teeth so that one side wall of the insertion teeth abuts against the first end plate or the second end plate.

[0027] Compared with the prior art, the plug-in shell processing method of the present invention has the following advantages: The plug-in shell processing method forms an integral connection structure of a first end plate, a second end plate, and a bottom shell by blanking. The first end plate and the second end plate are bent respectively to realize the insertion of the plug-in teeth into the plug-in holes. The plug-in teeth are then bent to abut against the first end plate or the second end plate, thereby realizing a reliable connection between the first end plate and the second end plate, giving the plug-in shell the advantage of good sealing performance. The blanking and bending process does not require manual adjustment and positioning. It can be completed by using bending equipment and molds. The process is simple, easy to implement, and has a higher degree of automation, which can further reduce labor costs and improve production efficiency.

[0028] In one embodiment, in step S2, the first end plate is processed to form a insertion hole, and the second end plate is processed to form insertion teeth. After step S2 and before step S3, the following steps are also included: bending the first end plate toward the first direction to form a first flap, or bending the second end plate toward the first direction to form a second flap.

[0029] In one embodiment, step S4 specifically includes the following steps:

[0030] Step S4 specifically includes the following steps:

[0031] Step S41: Press the insertion teeth to transition towards the first end plate to form an extended transition section, thereby sealing the insertion hole;

[0032] Step S41: Bend the free end of the extended transition section in the opposite direction to form a reverse bending section;

[0033] Step S42: Press the free end of the reverse bending section to form a press section to fit the second end plate.

[0034] In one embodiment, before step S4, the following steps are included: stamping the first end plate or the second end plate to form a recessed groove; in step S4, the insertion tooth is bent so that the insertion tooth is accommodated in the recessed groove, and one side wall of the insertion tooth abuts against the first end plate or the second end plate.

[0035] In one embodiment, step S2 further includes the following steps: cutting the first end plate or the second end plate to form the insertion hole, with one side of the insertion hole retaining an overlapping tooth; correspondingly, after step S4, the following steps are further included: bending the overlapping tooth and pressing it onto the insertion tooth to seal the insertion hole. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the plug-in housing provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0037] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the unfolded structure of the plug-in housing provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the plug-in housing provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0039] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A magnified view of part A in the middle;

[0040] Figure 5 This is a magnified schematic diagram of a portion of the insert tooth structure provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the plug-in housing provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 3 ;

[0042] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A magnified view of part B in the middle section;

[0043] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the insertion tooth housed in the countersunk groove according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the plug-in housing provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0045] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the plug-in housing provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0046] Figure 11 The steps of the plug-in housing processing method provided in Embodiment 4 of the present invention Figure 1 ;

[0047] Figure 12 The steps of the plug-in housing processing method provided in Embodiment 4 of the present invention Figure 2 ;

[0048] Figure 13 for Figure 12 A magnified view of part C in the middle;

[0049] Figure 14 The steps of the plug-in housing processing method provided in Embodiment 4 of the present invention Figure 3 ;

[0050] Figure 15 The steps of the plug-in housing processing method provided in Embodiment 4 of the present invention Figure 4 ;

[0051] Figure 16 for Figure 15 A magnified view of part D in the middle;

[0052] Figure 17 The steps of the plug-in housing processing method provided in Embodiment 4 of the present invention Figure 5 ;

[0053] Figure 18 The steps of the plug-in housing processing method provided in Embodiment 4 of the present invention Figure 6 .

[0054] Label Explanation:

[0055] 1. Bottom shell; 11. Receiving cavity; 2. First end plate; 21. Insertion hole; 22. First flap; 23. Overlap tooth; 3. Second end plate; 31. Insertion tooth; 311. Extension transition section; 312. Reverse bending section; 313. Pressing section; 32. Second flap; 4. Settled groove. Detailed Implementation

[0056] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0057] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0058] The terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first," "second," and "third" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0059] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0060] Example 1

[0061] Embodiment 1 of the present invention provides a plug-in housing, such as Figures 1-8 As shown, the plug-in housing includes a bottom shell 1, two oppositely arranged first end plates 2, and two oppositely arranged second end plates 3. The first end plates 2 and second end plates 3 are integrally formed with the bottom shell 1. The structure of the plug-in housing after unfolding is as follows: Figure 2 As shown, the connection structure of the first end plate 2, the second end plate 3, and the bottom shell 1 can be formed by cutting sheet metal. The cutting methods include, but are not limited to, stamping, laser cutting, and other methods. The two first end plates 2 and the two second end plates 3 are bent so that they surround the bottom shell 1 to form a receiving cavity 11, as shown. Figure 1 As shown, the accommodating cavity 11 is used to install other structural components of the gas water heater. For this integrated structure, the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 surround the bottom shell 1, requiring only bending operations. As long as the dimensional accuracy and cutting position accuracy of the sheet metal are ensured, there is no need for repeated manual adjustments to the relative positions of the first end plate 2, the second end plate 3, and the bottom shell 1, nor is it necessary to use manual assistance for positioning the first end plate 2, the second end plate 3, and the bottom shell 1 during processing. This high degree of automation improves production efficiency. Furthermore, there are no connecting gaps between the first end plate 2 and the bottom shell 1, or between the second end plate 3 and the bottom shell 1, enhancing the sealing and waterproof performance of the plug-in shell.

[0062] One of the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 is provided with a insertion hole 21, and the other is provided with an insertion tooth 31. The insertion tooth 31 and the insertion hole 21 are correspondingly inserted and engaged, and one side wall of the insertion tooth 31 abuts against the first end plate 2 or the second end plate 3. In this embodiment of the invention, the first end plate 2 is provided with a plurality of insertion holes 21, and the second end plate 3 is provided with a plurality of insertion teeth 31. The plurality of insertion holes 21 and the plurality of insertion teeth 31 correspond one-to-one. The insertion tooth 31 passes through the insertion hole 21 and is bent to abut against the first end plate 2 or the second end plate 3, so that the insertion tooth 31 at least blocks part of the insertion hole 21. The number, geometry and arrangement of the insertion teeth 31 can be designed according to the actual working conditions and are not limited to the drawings of this embodiment. In other embodiments, the first end plate 2 may also be provided with a plurality of insertion teeth 31 and the second end plate 3 may be provided with a plurality of insertion holes 21, all of which are within the protection scope of this application.

[0063] In this embodiment of the invention, the insertion teeth 31 on the second end plate 3 pass through the insertion holes 21, bend in the opposite direction, and abut against the second end plate 3, thereby partially blocking the insertion holes 21 and increasing the sealing performance between the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3. Of course, after passing through the insertion holes 21, the insertion teeth 31 on the second end plate 3 can also be bent and abut against the first end plate 2, achieving relative fixation and connection between the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3. This insertion and mating structure of the insertion teeth 31 and the insertion holes 21 not only achieves a reliable connection between the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3, preventing loosening between them, but also simplifies the insertion and bending operations of the insertion teeth 31. It places lower requirements on the machining accuracy and fit tolerances between the first end plate 2, the second end plate 3, and the bottom shell 1, resulting in a high degree of automation. It can be mass-produced using automated processing equipment, which helps improve production efficiency and reduce labor costs. Compared to welded or riveted structures, the plug-in housing of this invention has no welding slag, riveting burrs or other process residues, thus maintaining an overall aesthetic and smooth appearance.

[0064] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 only represent the name difference of side plates at different positions. In fact, the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 may be the same or different in terms of appearance, size, or other process parameters. This embodiment of the invention does not impose specific limitations. In this embodiment of the invention, the length of the first end plate 2 is greater than the length of the second end plate 3. When the plug-in housing is assembled into the complete machine, the two second end plates 3 serve as the upper end plate and the lower end plate, and the two first end plates 2 serve as the upright left end plate and the right end plate. The plug-in housing of this embodiment of the invention can be applied not only to gas water heaters but also to other fields, such as electronic products, all of which are within the protection scope of this invention.

[0065] In one embodiment, the first end plate 2 includes a first flap 22 formed by bending, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the first flap 22 fits against the outer side of the second end plate 3, and the insertion hole 21 is provided at the bend of the first flap 22. Multiple insertion holes 21 are evenly spaced. The first flap 22 can not only reduce the gap between the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3, but also increase the stability of the connection between the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3, thereby increasing the overall structural strength of the plug-in housing.

[0066] More specifically, the insertion teeth 31 bend and abut against the first flap 22, thereby increasing the pressing force on the first flap 22, so that the first flap 22 is tightly pressed against the outside of the second end plate 3, preventing the first flap 22 from deforming or loosening. Moreover, the second end plate 3 serves as the upper and lower end plates of the plug-in housing. After the plug-in housing is assembled into the complete machine, the first flap 22 and the insertion teeth 31 are located on the upper and lower sides of the plug-in housing, respectively, which provides better concealment and further enhances the overall aesthetics of the plug-in housing.

[0067] In one embodiment, the insertion tooth 31 includes an extended transition section 311, a reverse bending section 312, and a crimping section 313 arranged sequentially, such as Figure 5 As shown, the crimping section 313 crimps the second end plate 3 through the reverse bending section 312, and the extension transition section 311 extends toward the first end plate 2 to seal the insertion hole 21. Because the extension transition section 311 extends toward the first end plate 2, the insertion tooth 31 forms a certain inclined shape, which can more tightly seal the insertion hole 21. The cooperation of the reverse bending section 312 and the crimping section 313 gives the insertion tooth 31 a better locking structure.

[0068] Furthermore, the first end plate 2 also includes overlapping teeth 23, such as... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the overlapping tooth 23 is disposed at the insertion hole 21, and the overlapping tooth 23 presses against the insertion tooth 31 to seal the insertion hole 21. When processing the insertion hole 21, no excess material is removed; only the shape of the insertion hole 21 is cut out. When the first flap 22 is bent to form the insertion hole 21, the overlapping tooth 23 is retained on one side inside the insertion hole 21. Furthermore, in order to avoid the overlapping tooth 23 obstructing the insertion tooth 31 from entering the insertion hole 21, the overlapping tooth 23 can be bent away from the insertion tooth 31 first. After the insertion tooth 31 is inserted into the insertion hole 21 and bent in the opposite direction to abut against the second end plate 3, the overlapping tooth 23 is bent again, so that the overlapping tooth 23 presses against the insertion tooth 31 to seal the insertion hole 21. In this way, the sealing performance is better along the length of the insertion hole 21.

[0069] In one embodiment, the first end plate 2 and / or the second end plate 3 are provided with a countersunk groove 4 facing the receiving cavity 11, such as Figure 8As shown. The insertion tooth 31 is accommodated within the recessed groove 4 and does not protrude from the receiving cavity 11. In this embodiment of the invention, the recessed groove 4 is disposed on the second end plate 3, and both the first flap 22 and the insertion tooth 31 are accommodated within the recessed groove 4. Preferably, the outer wall of the insertion tooth 31 is flush with the edge of the recessed groove 4. The recessed groove 4 provides accommodating space for the insertion tooth 31, which not only protects the insertion tooth 31 but also maintains the neatness and smoothness of the appearance of the plug-in housing, reducing aesthetic damage caused by protrusions. This makes the plug-in housing structure compact and has a clean appearance; moreover, the recessed groove 4 prevents the insertion tooth 31 from protruding from the outer surface of the plug-in housing, making it less prone to deformation and damage due to collisions during transportation or use.

[0070] Example 2

[0071] Embodiment 2 of the present invention provides a plug-in housing, which has the same bottom shell 1 as in Embodiment 1, two oppositely arranged first end plates 2 and two oppositely arranged second end plates 3; the first end plates 2 and the second end plates 3 are integrally formed with the bottom shell 1, and the first end plates 2 and the second end plates 3 surround the bottom shell 1 to form an accommodating cavity 11; the first end plates 2 are provided with a plurality of plug-in holes 21, and the second end plates 3 are provided with a plurality of plug-in teeth 31, the plurality of plug-in holes 21 and the plurality of plug-in teeth 31 correspond one-to-one, the plug-in teeth 31 pass through the plug-in holes 21 and bend to abut against the first end plate 2 or the second end plate 3, so that the plug-in teeth 31 at least block part of the plug-in holes 21.

[0072] The difference in Embodiment 2 of the present invention is that, as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the second end plate 3 includes a second flap 32 formed by bending. The second flap 32 fits against the inner side of the first end plate 2, and the insertion teeth 31 are disposed on the edge of the second flap 32 to pass through the insertion hole 21. The second flap 32 fits against the inner side of the first end plate 2, and the insertion teeth 31 are bent from the inside of the receiving cavity 11 to the outside of the plug-in housing. Part of the structure of the second flap 32 and the insertion teeth 31 is hidden inside the plug-in housing, which makes the appearance of the plug-in housing neater and more beautiful.

[0073] It should be noted that when processing the second end plate 3 in this embodiment, the second end plate 3 needs to be bent on both sides to form the insertion teeth 31 and the second flap 32 respectively; and when assembling the insertion housing, the second end plate 3 is first bent so that it is vertically arranged around the bottom shell 1, as shown. Figure 9 As shown; then bend the first end plate 2 so that it is vertically arranged around the bottom shell 1, and make the insertion hole 21 engage with the insertion tooth 31, as shown. Figure 10 As shown.

[0074] Of course, in other embodiments, the second flap 32 and the insertion teeth 31 may be disposed on the first end plate 2, and the plurality of insertion holes 21 may be disposed on the second end plate 3. All of these are within the protection scope of this application.

[0075] Example 3

[0076] Embodiment 3 of the present invention provides a gas water heater, which includes the plug-in housing as described in Embodiment 1. The gas water heater also includes a combustion heat exchange assembly and a front panel. The combustion heat exchange assembly is disposed within the receiving cavity 11 of the plug-in housing, and the front panel is detachably connected to the plug-in housing to close the receiving cavity 11. The combustion heat exchange assembly includes structures such as a burner, a heat exchanger, a fume hood, and an exhaust pipe. The burner provides heat to the cold water flowing through the heat exchanger through gas combustion, and the fume hood collects the flue gas after heat exchange and discharges it through the exhaust pipe.

[0077] In the gas water heater of Embodiment 3 of the present invention, the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 of the plug-in housing are integrally formed with the bottom shell 1. During assembly, repeated manual adjustments to alignment are unnecessary, resulting in a high degree of automation. The first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 are fixed and connected through the engagement of the plug-in teeth 31 and the plug-in holes 21. The insertion and bending operations of the plug-in teeth 31 are simple, and the requirements for machining accuracy and fit tolerances between the first end plate 2, the second end plate 3, and the bottom shell 1 are low, resulting in a high degree of automation. Automated processing equipment can be used for batch processing, which helps improve production efficiency and reduce labor costs. There are no connecting gaps between the first end plate 2, the second end plate 3, and the bottom shell 1, and the plug-in teeth 31 can seal the plug-in holes 21, resulting in good sealing performance of the gas water heater and effectively protecting the combustion heat exchange components inside the accommodating cavity 11.

[0078] Example 4

[0079] Embodiment 4 of the present invention provides a method for processing a plug-in housing, used for processing a plug-in housing as shown in Embodiment 1, such as... Figures 11-18 As shown; the plug-in housing processing method includes the following steps:

[0080] Step S1: Cut the sheet material to form a bottom shell 1, two first end plates 2 and two second end plates 3 connected as one piece. The two first end plates 2 and two second end plates 3 are respectively connected to the four sides of the bottom shell 1. In this step, the size and shape of the sheet material are not limited. Before cutting, the sheet material is stretched and formed, and trimmed and punched to remove excess sheet material to obtain the required outline. The cutting method includes, but is not limited to, stamping, laser cutting and other methods. The two first end plates 2 and two second end plates 3 are respectively connected to the four sides of the bottom shell 1.

[0081] Step S2: Process one of the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 to form a insertion hole 21, and process the other to form an insertion tooth 31.

[0082] Step S3: Fold both second end plates 3 and both first end plates 2 in the first direction, respectively, while aligning the insertion hole 21 with the insertion tooth 31 so that the insertion tooth 31 is inserted into the insertion hole 21. It should be noted that the order in which the second end plates 3 and first end plates 2 are folded in this step depends on the specific structure; that is, first fold the one with the insertion tooth 31 from the second end plate 3 and the first end plate 2, then fold the one with the insertion hole 21. For ease of understanding, as follows... Figure 11 As shown in the figure, the Z direction is the first direction, that is, the direction perpendicular to the bottom shell 1 and upwards is the first direction. In this embodiment, firstly, two second end plates 3 are bent perpendicular to the bottom shell 1 in the first direction. The second end plates 3 are provided with insertion teeth 31, so that the second end plates 3 surround the bottom shell 1. Then, two first end plates 2 are bent perpendicular to the bottom shell 1 in the first direction. The first end plates 2 are provided with insertion holes 21. During the bending process, there is no need for repeated alignment and positioning, which can ensure the accurate relative position between the insertion holes 21 and the insertion teeth 31. The insertion teeth 31 can be easily inserted into the insertion holes 21. Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown. In this step, the second end plate 3 is bent first, and then the first end plate 2 is bent, which can avoid interference from the insertion teeth 31 on the second end plate 3 to the bending operation of the first end plate 2.

[0083] Step S4: Bend the insertion tooth 31 so that one side wall of the insertion tooth 31 abuts against the first end plate 2 or the second end plate 3. In this embodiment, the insertion tooth 31 is bent in the opposite direction so that the insertion tooth 31 abuts against the second end plate 3, thereby achieving a reliable connection between the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 and preventing loosening between the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3.

[0084] The plug-in housing processing method provided in Embodiment 4 of the present invention is used to process the plug-in housing in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2. The plug-in housing is formed by blanking to create an integral connection structure of the first end plate 2, the second end plate 3 and the bottom shell 1. The first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 are bent respectively to allow the plug teeth 31 to be inserted into the plug holes 21. The plug teeth 31 are then bent again to abut against the first end plate 2 or the second end plate 3, thereby achieving a reliable connection between the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3. This gives the plug-in housing the advantage of good sealing performance. The blanking and bending process does not require manual adjustment or positioning. It can be completed using bending equipment and with the help of molds. The process is simple, easy to implement, and has a higher degree of automation, which can further reduce labor costs and improve production efficiency.

[0085] As a preferred embodiment, after step S2 and before step S3, the following steps are also included: bending one of the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3, with the insertion hole 21, on both sides toward the first direction to form a first flap 22; or bending one of the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3, with the insertion tooth 31, on both sides toward the first direction to form a second flap 32. When the first flap 22 is set to abut against the second end plate 3 to improve sealing performance, after the insertion hole 21 is processed, the two sides of the first end plate 2 need to be bent toward the first direction along the width direction of the first end plate 2. The first flap 22 formed by bending is perpendicular to the bottom shell 1, such as... Figure 11 As shown; or, when the second flap 32 is provided to improve the sealing performance, after the insertion teeth 31 are processed, the two sides of the second end plate 3 need to be bent towards the first direction along the width direction of the second end plate 3, and the second flap 32 formed by bending is perpendicular to the bottom shell 1. Then, step S3 is performed: first, the second end plate 3 is bent towards the first direction perpendicular to the bottom shell 1 (refer to...). Figure 9 In actual processing, either the first flap 22 or the second flap 32 mentioned above should be used.

[0086] As a preferred option, step S4 specifically includes the following steps:

[0087] Step S41: The crimping insertion teeth 31 transition towards the first end plate 2 or the second end plate 3 to form an extended transition section 311, thereby sealing the insertion hole 21; the extended transition section 311 increases the sealing performance of the insertion teeth 31, such as... Figure 14 As shown;

[0088] Step S42: Bend the free end of the extended transition section 311 in the opposite direction to form the reverse bending section 312;

[0089] In step S43, the free end of the reverse bending section 312 is crimped to form a crimping section 313 to fit the second end plate 3 or the first end plate 2. The crimping section 313 increases the contact area with the second end plate 3 or the first end plate 2 to improve the fastening performance of the insertion teeth 31. In this embodiment, in step S2, the first end plate 2 is processed to form an insertion hole 21, and the second end plate 3 is processed to form an insertion tooth 31. Correspondingly, in step S44, the crimping insertion teeth 31 transition to the first end plate 2 to form an extended transition section 311, and in step S43, the free end of the reverse bending section 312 is crimped to form a crimping section 313 to fit the second end plate 3.

[0090] As a preferred embodiment, the following step is included before step S4: stamping the first end plate 2 or the second end plate 3 to form a countersunk groove 4. In step S4, the insertion teeth 31 are bent so that they are accommodated within the countersunk groove 4 and abut against the first end plate 2 or the second end plate 3. The countersunk groove 4 can accommodate the insertion teeth 31, preventing them from protruding from the first end plate 2 or the second end plate 3, thus maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the plug-in housing. The stamping of the countersunk groove 4 can be performed in either step S2 or step S3, and can be adjusted according to the processing equipment, offering considerable flexibility.

[0091] As a preferred embodiment, step S2 further includes the following steps: cutting the first end plate 2 to form an insertion hole 21, with one side of the insertion hole 21 retaining an overlapping tooth 23; correspondingly, after step S4, the following steps are also included: bending the overlapping tooth 23 and pressing it onto the insertion tooth 31 to seal the insertion hole 21. When cutting the insertion hole 21, it can be cut along three sides inside the insertion hole 21, with the overlapping tooth 23 retained on the other side; therefore, after step S4, the overlapping tooth 23 can be bent and pressed onto the insertion tooth 31, and the overlapping tooth 23 can seal the insertion hole 21 between the overlapping tooth 23 and the insertion tooth 31, further improving the sealing performance. In this step, to avoid the overlapping tooth 23 obstructing the insertion of the insertion tooth 31 into the insertion hole 21, the overlapping tooth 23 can be bent away from the insertion tooth 31 first, such as... Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown; after inserting the insertion tooth 31 into the insertion hole 21 and bending it in the opposite direction to abut against the second end plate 3, the overlapping tooth 23 is then bent, as shown. Figure 17 As shown, first, the overlapping teeth 23 are flattened so that they are in the same plane as the first end plate 2, and then bent so that the overlapping teeth 23 are pressed onto the insertion teeth 31 to seal the insertion hole 21, as shown. Figure 18 As shown; in this way, the interlocking teeth 23 can avoid interfering with the insertion teeth 31.

[0092] In the specific implementation of the above embodiments, the technical features can be combined in any non-contradictory way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the above technical features are described. However, as long as the combination of these technical features is not contradictory, it should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0093] The specific embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementations of the present invention, and while the descriptions are detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these modifications and improvements all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of this patent should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. Plug-in housing, characterized in that include: Bottom shell (1); Two first end plates (2) and two second end plates (3) are arranged opposite to each other. The first end plates (2) and the second end plates (3) are integrally formed with the bottom shell (1). The first end plates (2) and the second end plates (3) surround the bottom shell (1) to form a receiving cavity (11). One of the first end plate (2) and the second end plate (3) is provided with a plug hole (21), and the other is provided with a plug tooth (31). The plug tooth (31) and the plug hole (21) are connected and engaged. One side wall of the plug tooth (31) abuts against the first end plate (2) or the second end plate (3). The first end plate (2) or the second end plate (3) further includes an overlapping tooth (23), which is disposed on the side edge of the insertion hole (21) away from the insertion tooth, and the overlapping tooth (23) is pressed onto the insertion tooth (31) to block the insertion hole (21).

2. A plug-in housing, characterized in that, include: Bottom shell (1); Two first end plates (2) and two second end plates (3) are arranged opposite to each other. The first end plates (2) and the second end plates (3) are integrally formed with the bottom shell (1). The first end plates (2) and the second end plates (3) surround the bottom shell (1) to form a receiving cavity (11). One of the first end plate (2) and the second end plate (3) is provided with a plug hole (21), and the other is provided with a plug tooth (31). The plug tooth (31) and the plug hole (21) are connected and engaged. One side wall of the plug tooth (31) abuts against the first end plate (2) or the second end plate (3). The insertion tooth (31) includes an extension transition section (311), a reverse bending section (312), and a crimping section (313) arranged in sequence. The crimping section (313) crimps the first end plate (2) or the second end plate (3) through the reverse bending section (312). The extension transition section (311) extends in a direction away from the crimping section (313) to block the insertion hole (21).

3. The plug-in housing according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first end plate (2) or the second end plate (3) has a first flap (22) formed by bending, and the insertion hole (21) is provided at the bending point of the first flap (22), and the plurality of insertion holes (21) are evenly spaced.

4. The plug-in housing according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first flap (22) fits against the outer side of the first end plate (2) or the second end plate (3), and one side wall of the insertion tooth (31) abuts against the first flap (22).

5. The plug-in housing according to any one of claims 1-2, characterized in that, The first end plate (2) or the second end plate (3) is provided with a countersunk groove (4) facing the receiving cavity (11), and the insertion tooth (31) is received in the countersunk groove (4).

6. The plug-in housing according to any one of claims 1-2, characterized in that, The first end plate (2) or the second end plate (3) has a second flap (32) formed by bending, the second flap (32) is attached to the inner side of the first end plate (2), and the insertion teeth (31) are provided on the edge of the second flap (32) to pass through the corresponding insertion hole (21).

7. A gas-fired water heater, characterized in that, The device includes a plug-in housing as described in any one of claims 1-6, and further includes a combustion heat exchange assembly and a front panel, wherein the combustion heat exchange assembly is disposed within the receiving cavity (11) of the plug-in housing, and the front panel is detachably connected to the plug-in housing to close the receiving cavity (11).

8. A method for processing a plug-in housing, characterized in that, For processing the plug-in housing as described in any one of claims 1-6, the following steps are included: Step S1: Cut the sheet material to form a bottom shell (1), two first end plates (2) and two second end plates (3) that are connected as one piece. The two first end plates (2) and the two second end plates (3) are respectively connected to the four sides of the bottom shell (1). Step S2: Process one of the first end plate (2) and the second end plate (3) to form a plug hole (21), and process the other to form a plug tooth (31). Step S3: Fold the two second end plates (3) toward the first direction and fold the two first end plates (2) toward the first direction. At the same time, align the insertion hole (21) with the insertion tooth (31) so that the insertion tooth (31) is inserted into the insertion hole (21). Step S4: Bend the insertion tooth (31) so that one side wall of the insertion tooth (31) abuts against the first end plate (2) or the second end plate (3).

9. The method for processing a plug-in housing according to claim 8, characterized in that, In step S2, the first end plate (2) is processed to form a plug hole (21), and the second end plate (3) is processed to form a plug tooth (31). After step S2 and before step S3, the following steps are also included: bending the first end plate (2) toward the first direction to form a first flap (22), or bending the second end plate (3) toward the first direction to form a second flap (32).

10. The method for processing a plug-in housing according to claim 9, characterized in that, Step S4 specifically includes the following steps: Step S41: Press the insertion teeth (31) to transition to the first end plate (2) to form an extended transition section (311) to block the insertion hole (21). Step S42: Bend the free end of the extended transition section (311) in the opposite direction to form a reverse bending section (312). Step S43: Press the free end of the reverse bending section (312) to form a pressing section (313) to fit the second end plate (3).

11. The method for processing a plug-in housing according to claim 8, characterized in that, Before step S4, the following steps are also included: stamping the first end plate (2) or the second end plate (3) to form a recessed groove (4). In step S4, the insertion tooth (31) is bent so that the insertion tooth (31) is accommodated in the recessed groove (4), and one side wall of the insertion tooth (31) abuts against the first end plate (2) or the second end plate (3).

12. The method for processing a plug-in housing according to claim 8, characterized in that, In step S2, the following steps are also included: cutting the first end plate (2) or the second end plate (3) to form the insertion hole (21), with one side of the insertion hole (21) retaining an overlapping tooth (23); correspondingly, after step S4, the following steps are also included: bending the overlapping tooth (23) and pressing it onto the insertion tooth (31) to seal the insertion hole (21).

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