A thermostatic valve and shower

Abstract

The application discloses a thermostatic valve and a shower. In the thermostatic valve, a valve body is provided with a mixed water cavity, a cold water inlet hole, a hot water inlet hole and an outlet hole; a thermostatic assembly comprises a temperature sensing water control member, an elastic connecting member and a first sealing member connected to the temperature sensing water control member by the connecting member; the temperature sensing water control member is adapted to elongate or shorten based on the change of the water temperature in the mixed water cavity to respectively reduce and increase the water inlet area of the hot water inlet hole and drive the first sealing member to respectively increase and reduce the water inlet area of the cold water inlet hole; the lowest response temperature of the temperature sensing water control member is a first temperature; the temperature sensing member is arranged in the valve body and is adapted to drive the first sealing member to gradually reduce the water inlet area of the cold water inlet hole with the decrease of the water temperature when the water temperature in the mixed water cavity is lower than the first temperature; and the response speed of the temperature sensing member to temperature is greater than that of the temperature sensing water control member. The shower adopts the thermostatic valve. The thermostatic valve and the shower can quickly respond to the suddenly reduced temperature and quickly restore the outlet water temperature to be constant.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of valves, and more specifically to a thermostatic valve and a shower. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, in order to keep the water temperature constant and improve the user experience, showers are generally equipped with thermostatic valves. The thermostatic valve has a built-in temperature sensing component, which can adjust the flow rate of cold and hot water, so that the mixed water is always kept within an appropriate range.

[0003] In actual use, the water pressure at the cold water supply end of the house often varies, leading to inconsistent water temperature in the water heater and inconsistent flow of cold water into the thermostatic valve. This causes the thermostatic valve to experience fluctuating water temperature. If a user encounters a sudden drop in water temperature while showering, and the drop is short-lived, the thermostat's temperature-sensing action is usually noticeably delayed, preventing it from adjusting the temperature in time. However, if the drop is prolonged, the thermostat will shrink to its minimum size in response to the low temperature. At this point, the hot water inlet area is at its maximum, while the cold water temperature is at its minimum, causing a rapid rise in water temperature within the mixing chamber. Before the thermostat can react, there is a risk of scalding. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the aforementioned defects or problems in the prior art and to provide a thermostatic valve and shower that can quickly respond to a sudden drop in temperature and quickly restore the outlet water temperature to a constant level, so as to better meet the user's needs and reduce the risk of use.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention and its preferred embodiments employ the following technical solutions, but the embodiments are not limited to the following solutions:

[0006] A thermostatic valve includes: a valve body having a mixing chamber and a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and an outlet communicating with the mixing chamber; and a thermostatic component disposed within the valve body, including a temperature-sensing and water-controlling element, an elastic connector, and a first sealing element connected to the temperature-sensing and water-controlling element via the connector; the two ends of the connector along its elastic deformation direction are respectively fixedly connected to the temperature-sensing and water-controlling element and the first sealing element; the temperature-sensing and water-controlling element is adapted to sense the water temperature of the mixing chamber and to extend or shorten based on changes in water temperature to respectively reduce and increase the temperature of the hot water inlet and outlet. The water inlet area of ​​the water inlet hole and the corresponding increase and decrease of the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet hole caused by the first sealing element are respectively; the minimum response temperature of the temperature-sensing water control element is the first temperature; the temperature-sensing element is placed in the valve body and is adapted to sense the water temperature of the mixing chamber, and when the water temperature is lower than the first temperature, it drives the first sealing element to overcome the elastic movement of the connecting member and gradually decreases the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet hole as the water temperature decreases; the temperature-sensing element's response speed to temperature is greater than the temperature-sensing water control element's response speed to temperature.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment, the temperature sensing element is adapted to drive the first sealing element to close the cold water inlet when the water temperature in the mixing chamber is lower than the second temperature; the second temperature is lower than the first temperature.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment, the temperature-sensing water control component includes a temperature bulb and a second sealing element; the temperature bulb is adapted to expand or contract according to the water temperature change in the mixing chamber; the second sealing element is fixedly connected to the temperature bulb and is used to adjust the inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet hole.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the temperature bulb is a paraffin temperature bulb; the temperature sensing element is a memory metal spring.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, along the axial direction of the valve body, the first seal is relatively far from the mixing chamber relative to the second seal; a water passage is formed between the first seal and the second seal, connecting the cold water inlet and the mixing chamber; the temperature sensing element is placed inside the mixing chamber and is adapted to expand when the water temperature is sensed to be lower than the first temperature and to contract to its minimum size when the water temperature is sensed to be higher than the first temperature.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the first seal has an abutment portion extending toward the mixing chamber; the abutment portion is for the temperature sensing element to abut against; the second seal has an avoidance hole for avoiding the abutment portion.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the thermostatic component further includes a reset member; the reset member abuts against the valve body and the temperature bulb or the second seal member along the axial direction of the valve body, and is adapted to push the temperature bulb back to its original position in the direction of increasing the size of the hot water inlet hole when the temperature bulb contracts.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the system further includes an operating component; the operating component includes a valve stem, a nut, an elastic element, and a top cap; the valve stem is axially rotatably connected to the valve body, with one end extending out of the valve body for operation, and the other end located within the valve body and screwed to the nut; the nut is axially slidable within the valve body and engages with the valve body to prevent rotation; the elastic element abuts against the nut and the top cap axially; the end of the temperature-sensing water control element away from the mixing chamber abuts against the top cap.

[0014] A shower unit includes a shower unit body and a thermostatic valve as described above; the shower unit body is provided with a cold water channel, a hot water channel, and a water outlet channel; the cold water channel and the hot water channel are respectively adapted to receive cold water and hot water; the water outlet channel is adapted to output mixed water; the thermostatic valve is installed in the shower unit body; the cold water channel is connected to the cold water inlet; the hot water channel is connected to the hot water inlet; and the water outlet channel is connected to the water outlet.

[0015] As can be seen from the above description of the present invention and its preferred embodiments, compared with the prior art, the technical solution of the present invention and its preferred embodiments have the following beneficial effects due to the adoption of the following technical means:

[0016] 1. In the relevant technical solutions and their preferred embodiments, the thermostatic component includes a temperature-sensing water control element, a connector, and a first sealing element. The temperature-sensing water control element can sense the water temperature in the mixing chamber and adjust the water inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet towards the mixing chamber based on changes in the water temperature within the mixing chamber. Specifically, the temperature-sensing water control element only changes volume with the water temperature when the water temperature reaches a set first temperature or higher. The first sealing element is connected to the temperature-sensing water control element via the connector and can move synchronously with the temperature-sensing water control element when its volume changes. When the water temperature in the mixing chamber is above the first temperature, as the water temperature exceeds the preset temperature value of the temperature-sensing water control element, the temperature-sensing water control element reduces the water inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet. The first sealing element increases the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet. As the water temperature falls below the preset temperature value of the temperature-sensing water control element, the temperature-sensing water control element increases the water inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet, while the first sealing element reduces the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet. The water inlet ratio of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet is adjusted according to the temperature of the mixing chamber in the above manner, thereby maintaining the temperature at a constant level and achieving a constant temperature effect. Since the minimum response temperature of the temperature-sensing water control element is the first temperature, it should be understood that when the water temperature in the mixing chamber reaches the first temperature, the temperature-sensing water control element returns to its original state, that is, it shrinks to its minimum size, and will not continue to shrink when the water temperature is lower than the first temperature. This is also a basic characteristic of existing temperature-sensing elements. The temperature sensing element is suitable for sensing the water temperature in the mixing chamber, and its response speed to temperature is faster than that of the temperature-sensing water control element. When the water temperature in the mixing chamber is lower than a first temperature, it drives the first sealing element to move against the elastic force of the connecting element. Furthermore, as the water temperature decreases below the first temperature, the inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet gradually shrinks. Thus, when the user uses a thermostatic valve, if the water temperature suddenly drops, the temperature sensing element can respond quickly and reduce the inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet accordingly, thereby reducing the amount of cold water entering the valve and allowing the water temperature to quickly return to a constant temperature. During this process, because the temperature-sensing water control element has not yet had time to change its volume based on the water temperature, the water entering the hot water inlet... The area remains unchanged. This method, which keeps the inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet constant and only adjusts the inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet to cope with sudden changes in water temperature, provides more precise temperature control compared to adjusting the inlet areas of both the hot and cold water inlets simultaneously. It eliminates the need for repeated adjustments of the inlet areas of the hot and cold water inlets, and the water temperature in the mixing chamber reaches a constant level more quickly. Therefore, it is more conducive to meeting people's needs. Furthermore, during the adjustment process, the inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet changes gradually, and the cold water inlet always supplies water to the mixing chamber. Therefore, there will be no sudden increase in water temperature due to the cold water inlet being closed, which can prevent users from being scalded.

[0017] 2. In the relevant technical solutions and their preferred embodiments, the temperature sensing element is adapted to drive the first sealing element to close the cold water inlet when the water temperature in the mixing chamber is lower than the second temperature. The second temperature is lower than the first temperature, and the second temperature can be set to room temperature according to actual conditions. Thus, each time the shower product is used, the temperature sensing element will close the cold water inlet after sensing the water temperature in the mixing chamber. At this time, only the hot water inlet is open, and the cold water stored in the hot water pipe connecting the water heater and the shower product will be quickly discharged from the thermostatic valve, realizing automatic fast cold water discharge. Since the cold water at the cold water end will not flow into the thermostatic valve during cold water discharge, the cold water discharge speed is fast and the waiting time is short, which can effectively improve the user experience and eliminate the tedious operation of manual adjustment for cold water discharge.

[0018] 3. In the relevant technical solutions and their preferred embodiments, the temperature-sensing water control component includes a temperature bulb and a second sealing component. The temperature bulb can expand or contract according to the water temperature change in the mixing chamber. The second sealing component is fixedly connected to the temperature bulb and can adjust the water inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet hole. Separating the two parts with different functions helps to reduce the difficulty of structural molding and reduce production costs.

[0019] 4. In the relevant technical solutions and their preferred embodiments, the temperature bulb is a paraffin temperature bulb, and the temperature sensing element is a memory metal spring. The difference in the response speed of the two to temperature is obvious, which can well meet the corresponding requirements of this technical solution and its preferred embodiments.

[0020] 5. In the relevant technical solutions and their preferred embodiments, along the axial direction of the valve body, the first sealing element is farther away from the mixing chamber than the second sealing element. Correspondingly, the cold water inlet is farther away from the mixing chamber than the hot water inlet. This shortens the path for hot water to enter the mixing chamber, preventing temperature loss. By forming a water passage between the first and second sealing elements, it is ensured that cold water introduced through the cold water inlet is not blocked by the first and second sealing elements and can reliably flow into the mixing chamber. The temperature sensing element is adapted to expand when the sensed water temperature is lower than a first temperature and contract to its minimum size when the sensed water temperature is higher than the first temperature. When the temperature sensing element is installed in the mixing chamber, this "thermal contraction and cold expansion" method can directly drive the first sealing element in the corresponding direction, thereby reducing structural complexity.

[0021] 6. In the relevant technical solutions and their preferred embodiments, the first sealing member is provided with an abutting part extending toward the mixing chamber. The abutting part is used to abut against the temperature sensing element, so as to ensure that the temperature sensing element is completely located in the mixing chamber and to ensure the temperature sensing effect of the temperature sensing element.

[0022] 7. In the relevant technical solutions and their preferred embodiments, the thermostatic component further includes a reset member, which abuts against the valve body and the temperature bulb along the axial direction of the valve body or between the valve body and the second sealing member. It is adapted to push the temperature bulb in the direction of increasing the hot water inlet after the temperature bulb contracts, so as to reliably reset the temperature bulb.

[0023] 8. In the relevant technical solutions and their preferred embodiments, the valve stem can be operated by the user to adjust the constant temperature of the water outlet of the thermostatic valve. When the valve stem is rotated, the nut will move up and down, thereby pushing the elastic element and the top cap to move. The top cap pushes the temperature bulb to move, and the temperature bulb drives the first sealing element and the second sealing element to move, thereby adjusting the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet and the hot water inlet. Among these, the elastic element can prevent the temperature bulb from being damaged due to excessive force at both ends when it deforms under the influence of temperature.

[0024] 9. In the relevant technical solutions and their preferred embodiments, the shower uses the above-mentioned thermostatic valve, thus inheriting all the advantages of thermostatic valves. It has the function of quickly responding to a sudden drop in temperature and quickly restoring the outlet water temperature to a constant value, thus well meeting the user's needs and reducing the risk of use. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments are briefly introduced. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional exploded view of an embodiment of the thermostatic valve of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of the thermostatic valve of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of an embodiment of the thermostatic valve of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure combining the first sealing element and the temperature-sensing water control element in an embodiment of the thermostatic valve of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure combining the first sealing element and the temperature-sensing water control element in an embodiment of the thermostatic valve of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0031] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the thermostatic valve embodiment of the present invention when draining cold water;

[0032] Figure 7This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the thermostatic valve embodiment of the present invention under a thermostatic state.

[0033] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram showing the response of the temperature sensing element when the thermostatic valve of the present invention suddenly cools down during use.

[0034] Explanation of key figure labels:

[0035] Valve body 1; upper valve shell 2; through hole 3; lower valve shell 4; mixing chamber 5; cold water inlet hole 6; hot water inlet hole 7; bottom opening 8; first support surface 9; second support surface 10; base 11; water outlet hole 12; positioning groove 13; thermostatic component 14; temperature sensing and water control component 15; temperature bulb 16; second seal 17; second water passage hole 18; clearance hole 19; top rod 20; limiting component 21; connecting component 22; first seal 23; first water passage hole 24; abutment part 25; abutment groove 25a; reset component 26; temperature sensing component 27; operating component 28; valve stem 29; first retaining spring 30; nut 31; slide 32; elastic component 33; top cap 34; second retaining spring 35. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are preferred embodiments of the present invention and should not be considered as excluding other embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0037] Unless otherwise expressly defined, the use of terms such as "first," "second," or "third" in the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention is for distinguishing different objects and not for describing a specific order.

[0038] Unless otherwise expressly defined, in the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention, the use of directional terms such as "center," "lateral," "longitudinal," "horizontal," "vertical," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise" to indicate orientation or positional relationships is based on the orientation and positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and is only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and is not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the specific scope of protection of this invention.

[0039] Unless otherwise expressly defined, the terms "fixed connection" or "fixed connection" used in the claims, description and drawings of this invention should be interpreted broadly to refer to any connection in which there is no displacement or relative rotation relationship between the two parties, including non-removable fixed connection, detachable fixed connection, integral connection and fixed connection by other means or components.

[0040] In the claims, description and accompanying drawings of this invention, the terms "comprising," "having," and variations thereof are used to mean "including but not limited to."

[0041] See Figure 1 and Figure 3 , Figure 1 and Figure 3 The diagram shows an exploded three-dimensional structure and a cross-sectional structure of the thermostatic valve provided in this embodiment. Specifically, the thermostatic valve provided in this embodiment includes a valve body 1, a thermostatic component 14, a temperature sensing element 27, and an operating component 28.

[0042] The valve body 1 is provided with a mixing chamber 5 and a cold water inlet 6, a hot water inlet 7, and an outlet 12 that connect to the mixing chamber 5. Specifically, as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the valve body 1 includes an upper valve housing 2, a lower valve housing 4, and a base 11. Both the upper valve housing 2 and the lower valve housing 4 are generally cylindrical. The top of the upper valve housing 2 has a through hole 3 for the operating component 28 to pass through. The bottom of the upper valve housing 2 is inserted into the top of the lower valve housing 4 and threadedly connected to the inner wall of the lower valve housing 4. The side wall of the lower valve housing 4 has vertically arranged cold water inlet holes 6 and hot water inlet holes 7. The bottom of the lower valve housing 4 has an opening. The inner wall of the lower valve housing 4 has an upward-facing first support surface 9 and a second support surface 10. Both the first support surface 9 and the second support surface 10 are annular surfaces, with the first support surface 9 located on the outer periphery of the second support surface 10. They are used for the contact of part of the thermostatic component 14 with the base 11. The base 11 is supported on the second support surface 10 and has an upward-facing annular positioning groove 13 for the insertion of the temperature sensing element 27. A water outlet hole 12 with a connecting opening is located at the center of the groove.

[0043] The thermostatic component 14 is placed inside the valve body 1, and includes a temperature-sensing water control component 15, a flexible connector 22, a first seal 23, and a reset component 26.

[0044] The temperature-sensing water control element 15 is adapted to sense the water temperature of the mixing chamber 5 and extend or shorten based on water temperature changes to respectively reduce and increase the inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet hole 7. The minimum response temperature of the temperature-sensing water control element 15 is a first temperature. Specifically, as shown in the figure... Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, the temperature-sensing water control component 15 includes a temperature bulb 16 and a second sealing element 17. The temperature bulb 16 is adapted to expand or contract according to the water temperature change in the mixing chamber 5. In this embodiment, the temperature bulb 16 is, but is not limited to, a paraffin temperature bulb 16, which extends axially along the valve body 1. Its bottom is located inside the mixing chamber 5 for sensing the water temperature, and its top extends from the top of the mixing chamber 5 for mounting the first sealing element 23 and the second sealing element 17. The second sealing element 17 is fixed to the temperature bulb 16 and is used to adjust the water inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet hole 7. The second sealing element 17 and the temperature bulb 16 have different functions and are usually made of different materials. Therefore, separating them helps to reduce the difficulty of structural molding and reduce production costs. Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the second sealing element 17 has an annular structure, which is sleeved on the part of the temperature bulb 16 located above the mixing chamber 5 and screwed to the outer wall of the temperature bulb 16. The second sealing element 17 is provided with a second water passage hole 18 that passes through the valve body 1 along the axial direction. The second water passage hole 18 is used to form a part that connects the cold water inlet hole 6 and the mixing chamber 5. In use, when the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 is higher than the first temperature, such as when the water temperature is higher than the preset temperature value of the heating element 16, the heating element 16 expands and extends downwards. At this time, the heating element 16 drives the second seal 17 to move downwards and reduces the water inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet 7. When the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 is higher than the first temperature, but lower than the preset temperature value of the heating element 16, the heating element 16 contracts and shortens upwards. At this time, the heating element 16 drives the second seal 17 to move upwards and increases the water inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet 7. When the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 is lower than the first temperature, since the minimum response temperature of the temperature sensing and water control element 15 is the first temperature, the heating element 16 returns to its original state and contracts to its minimum size. That is, the heating element 16 will not continue to contract when the water temperature is lower than the first temperature. The minimum response temperature of the paraffin heating element 16 is usually around 35°C. The preset temperature value of the heating element 16 is generally set at around 38°C based on the user's usage requirements. In addition, if Figure 3 As shown in the example given in this embodiment, the temperature-sensing water control component 15 also includes a push rod 20 and a limiting member 21. The push rod 20 is fixed to the top of the temperature bulb 16 by a tight insertion method, and it is used to form an abutment with the operating component 28 so that the operating component 28 limits the upward movement range of the temperature-sensing water control component 15. The limiting member 21 is screwed to the outer wall of the top of the temperature bulb 16, and it is used to limit the movement range of the first seal 23. The following will describe in detail the relevant content of the cooperation between the first seal 23 and the temperature sensing component 27.

[0045] The two ends of the connector 22 along its elastic deformation direction are respectively fixed to the first seal 23 and the temperature-sensing water control element 15, so that the first seal 23 can move synchronously with the expansion or contraction of the temperature bulb 16. Specifically, as shown in the figure... Figure 3As shown, the connector 22 is elastic, and it adopts, but is not limited to, a spring. It extends along the axial direction of the valve body 1, that is, the elastic deformation direction of the connector 22 is parallel to the axial direction of the valve body 1. Its two ends along its elastic deformation direction are respectively fixed to the first seal 23 and the second seal 17.

[0046] The first seal 23 is used to adjust the inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet hole 6. Specifically, as shown in the figure... Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the first sealing element 23 is annular and is sleeved on the portion of the temperature bulb 16 located above the mixing chamber 5 and above the second sealing element 17. It is adapted to slide axially relative to the temperature bulb 16. In this embodiment, along the axial direction of the valve body 1, the first sealing element 23 is farther away from the mixing chamber 5 relative to the second sealing element 17, and the cold water inlet 6 is farther away from the mixing chamber 5 relative to the hot water inlet 7. In this way, the path for hot water to enter the mixing chamber 5 is shorter, which can avoid the loss of hot water temperature. The first sealing element 23 is connected to the second sealing element 17 by the connecting element 22. When no external force is applied, the connecting element 22 is in a natural, unforced state. When the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 is greater than the preset temperature value of the heating element 16, the heating element 16 expands, causing the second sealing element 17 to reduce the water inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet 7, while simultaneously moving the first sealing element 23 downward and correspondingly increasing the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet 6. When the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 is less than the preset temperature value of the heating element 16, the heating element 16 contracts, causing the second sealing element 17 to increase the water inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet 7, while simultaneously moving the first sealing element 23 upward and correspondingly reducing the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet 6. In this way, the water inlet ratio of the hot water inlet 7 and the cold water inlet 6 are adjusted respectively, thereby maintaining the temperature at a constant level and achieving a constant temperature effect. In this embodiment, the first sealing member 23 is provided with a first water passage hole 24 that extends through the valve body 1 along the axial direction. The first water passage hole 24 is connected to the second water passage hole 18 and forms a water passage channel. The water passage channel is connected to the cold water inlet hole 6 and the mixing chamber 5. That is, a water passage channel is formed between the first sealing member 23 and the second sealing member 17 to connect the cold water inlet hole 6 and the mixing chamber 5. This ensures that the cold water introduced by the cold water inlet hole 6 will not be blocked by the first sealing member 23 and the second sealing member 17, and can reliably flow into the mixing chamber 5.

[0047] The reset element 26 is used to push against the temperature-sensing water control element 15 and the first seal 23 to reset when the temperature bulb 16 contracts. The reset element 26 is, but is not limited to, a spring, which extends axially along the valve body 1 and abuts against the valve body 1 and the temperature bulb 16 or the second seal 17. Figure 3As shown, in this embodiment, the top end of the reset member 26 abuts against the second sealing member 17, and its bottom end abuts against the first support surface 9. It is adapted to push the temperature bulb 16 back to its original position in the direction of enlarging the hot water inlet hole 7 when the temperature bulb 16 contracts. The top of the base 11 protrudes upward from the first support surface 9. Thus, the outer wall of the base 11, the inner wall of the lower valve housing 4, and the first support surface 9 cooperate to form a positioning groove. This positioning groove accommodates at least the bottom of the reset member 26, thereby preventing the reset member 26 from dislodging from the first support surface 9 and improving the stability of the reset member 26.

[0048] like Figure 3As shown, the temperature sensing element 27 is placed inside the valve body 1 and extends along the axial direction of the valve body 1. Its top end abuts against the first sealing element 23, and its bottom end is placed in the positioning groove 13 and abuts against the bottom of the positioning groove 13. It is suitable for sensing the water temperature of the mixing chamber 5, and when the water temperature is lower than the first temperature, it drives the first sealing element 23 to overcome the elastic movement of the connecting element 22 and gradually reduces the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet hole 6 as the water temperature decreases. The temperature sensing element 27 responds to temperature faster than the temperature sensing and water control element 15. The temperature sensing element 27 uses, but is not limited to, a memory metal spring, which has an extremely high response speed to temperature and its response speed to temperature is significantly different from that of the paraffin heating element 16. Therefore, in use, it can usually react to the water temperature before the heating element 16. In this embodiment, the temperature sensing element 27 is placed inside the mixing chamber 5. It is adapted to expand when the water temperature is sensed to be lower than a first temperature, and to contract to its minimum size when the water temperature is sensed to be higher than the first temperature. Based on this, when the user uses a thermostatic valve, if the water temperature suddenly drops, the temperature sensing element 27 can quickly respond before the temperature sensor 16 has time to respond. Based on the decrease in water temperature, the inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet hole 6 is reduced accordingly, thereby reducing the amount of cold water entering the valve and allowing the water temperature to quickly return to a constant temperature. During this process, since the temperature sensing and water control element 15 has not yet had time to change its volume based on the water temperature, the inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet hole 7 will not change, thus maintaining the hot water temperature. The method of keeping the inlet area of ​​the water inlet 7 constant and adjusting only the inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet 6 to cope with sudden changes in water temperature is more precise than adjusting the inlet areas of both the hot water inlet 7 and the cold water inlet 6 at the same time. It eliminates the need for repeated adjustments of the inlet areas of the hot water inlet 7 and the cold water inlet 6, and the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 reaches a constant level faster. Therefore, it is more conducive to meeting people's needs. Furthermore, during the adjustment process, the inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet 6 changes gradually, and the cold water inlet 6 always supplies water to the mixing chamber 5. Therefore, there will be no sudden increase in water temperature due to the cold water inlet 6 being closed, which can prevent users from being scalded. The temperature sensing element 27 is adapted to expand when the water temperature is lower than the first temperature and to contract to its minimum size when the water temperature is higher than the first temperature. When the temperature sensing element 27 is installed in the mixing chamber 5, this "thermal contraction and cold expansion" method can directly drive the first sealing element 23 in the corresponding direction, thereby reducing the structural complexity.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the temperature sensing element 27 is adapted to drive the first sealing element 23 to close the cold water inlet hole 6 when the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 is lower than the second temperature. The second temperature is lower than the first temperature, and this second temperature can be set to room temperature according to actual conditions. Thus, each time the shower product is used, the temperature sensing element 27 will close the cold water inlet hole 6 after sensing the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5. At this time, only the hot water inlet hole 7 is open, and the cold water stored in the hot water pipe connecting the water heater and the shower product will be quickly discharged from the thermostatic valve, realizing automatic fast cold water discharge. Since the cold water at the cold water end will not flow into the thermostatic valve during cold water discharge, the cold water discharge speed is fast and the waiting time is short, which can effectively improve the user experience and eliminate the tedious operation of manual adjustment for cold water discharge. It should be understood that both the first temperature and the second temperature can be a temperature range value with allowable deviation. For example, the first temperature can be 35±1℃; the second temperature can be 25±1℃.

[0050] In this embodiment, to facilitate the contact between the temperature sensing element 27 and the first sealing element 23, the first sealing element 23 is provided with a contact portion 25 extending toward the mixing chamber 5. This contact portion 25 is used for the temperature sensing element 27 to contact. Specifically, as shown in the figure... Figure 1 and Figure 5 As shown, the abutment portion 25 is formed into several columnar structures located on the bottom surface of the first sealing member 23. Each columnar structure is arranged circumferentially and abuts against the temperature sensing member 27. The second sealing member 17 is provided with clearance holes 19 for avoiding the abutment portion 25. Based on this, it can be ensured that the temperature sensing member 27 is completely located within the mixing chamber 5, ensuring the temperature sensing effect of the temperature sensing member 27. In the example given in this embodiment, each columnar structure included in the abutment portion 25 is provided with an abutment groove 25a. Each abutment groove 25a is used for the top of the temperature sensing member 27 to be inserted, thereby improving the stability of the temperature sensing member 27 and preventing the temperature sensing member 27 from being misaligned with the abutment portion 25.

[0051] In this embodiment, a limiting member 21 is screwed onto the outer wall of the temperature bulb 16. The limiting member 21 can restrict the range of upward movement of the first sealing member 23. In this way, when the first sealing member 23 is pushed and moved by the temperature sensing member 27, the connecting member 22 can always be within the effective elastic deformation range, thus avoiding the elastic failure of the connecting member 22.

[0052] The operating assembly 28 includes a valve stem 29, a nut 31, an elastic element 33, and a top cap 34.

[0053] The valve stem 29 is rotatably connected to the valve body 1 and axially limited relative to the valve body 1. One end extends out of the valve body 1 for operation, and the other end is located inside the valve body 1 and screwed onto the nut 31. Specifically, refer to... Figure 1 and Figure 3The valve stem 29 is an axially extending shaft that passes through the through hole 3 at the top of the upper valve housing 2. The part of the stem extending out of the top of the upper valve housing 2 abuts against the top surface of the upper valve housing 2 through the first snap ring 30, and the part inside the upper valve housing 2 abuts against the inner wall surface of the upper valve housing 2. Thus, it is fixed relative to the upper valve housing 2 in the axial direction and can rotate relative to the upper valve housing 2. The top of the valve stem 29 extends out of the top of the upper valve housing 2 for operation, and its bottom end is located inside the upper valve housing 2 to be screwed with the nut 31. The outer wall of the valve stem 29 is sealed with the inner wall of the upper valve housing 2 through a sealing element to prevent water inside the thermostatic valve from leaking out from the top of the upper valve housing 2.

[0054] Nut 31 slides axially on the upper valve housing 2 and engages with the upper valve housing 2 in an anti-rotation fit. (Refer to...) Figure 1 and Figure 3 The nut 31 is cylindrical, with a closed top and an open bottom. Its channel forms a slide 32 for the top cap 34 to slide on. The nut 31 is engaged with the inner wall of the upper valve housing 2 in a non-rotational surface contact manner. In the example given in this embodiment, the nut 31 is specifically a hexagonal nut 31, and the non-rotational surface contact specifically refers to the contact between the plane of the outer wall of the nut 31 and the plane provided on the inner wall of the upper valve housing 2.

[0055] The elastic element 33 and the top cap 34 are placed within the slide rail 32. The top cap 34 moves more reliably under the guidance of the slide rail 32. The top end of the elastic element 33 abuts against the top wall of the nut 31, and its bottom end abuts against the top cap 34. A second retaining spring 35 is secured to the inner wall of the slide rail 32, preventing the top cap 34 from disengaging from the slide rail 32. (See reference...) Figure 1 and Figure 3 The elastic element 33 is, but is not limited to, a spring, which abuts against the nut 31 and the top cap 34 along the axial direction of the valve body 1. The end of the push rod 20 away from the temperature bulb 16 abuts against the top cap 34, that is, the end of the temperature sensing and water control element 15 away from the mixing chamber 5 abuts against the top cap 34.

[0056] In this embodiment, the valve stem 29 can be operated by the user to adjust the constant temperature of the water outlet of the thermostatic valve. When the valve stem 29 is rotated, the nut 31 will move up and down, thereby pushing the elastic element 33 and the top cap 34 to move. The top cap 34 pushes the temperature bulb 16 to move, and the temperature bulb 16 drives the first sealing element 23 and the second sealing element 17 to move, thereby adjusting the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet hole 6 and the hot water inlet hole 7. Among these, the elastic element 33 can prevent the temperature bulb 16 from being damaged due to excessive force at both ends when it deforms under the influence of temperature.

[0057] In use, when the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 is higher than the preset temperature value of the heating element 16, the heating element 16 expands, the top of the push rod 20 is restricted by the top cap 34, the second seal 17, the first seal 23 and the connecting piece 22 move downwards, the cold water inlet 6 enlarges, the hot water inlet 7 decreases, and the reset piece 26 contracts to store energy. When the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 is lower than the preset temperature value of the heating element 16, the heating element 16 contracts, the reset piece 26 pushes the heating element 16 upwards, the second seal 17, the first seal 23 and the connecting piece 22 move upwards accordingly, the cold water inlet 6 decreases, and the hot water inlet 7 increases. This mechanism regulates the flow rate of cold and hot water into the mixing chamber 5 and maintains a constant water temperature in the mixing chamber 5. This is done to improve the user experience.

[0058] The installation principle of the thermostatic valve provided in this embodiment is as follows:

[0059] The elastic element 33 and the top cap 34 are inserted into the slide rail 32 from the bottom end of the nut 31 in sequence, and the second snap ring 35 is snapped into the inner wall of the slide rail 32 to prevent the top cap 34 and the second elastic element 33 from coming out of the slide rail 32.

[0060] The second seal 17 and the temperature bulb 16 are screwed together and fixed. The first seal 23 is connected to the second seal 17 via the connector 22. The limiting member 21 is screwed into place with the temperature bulb 16.

[0061] Screw the valve stem 29 and nut 31 into place, then insert the valve stem 29 from the bottom of the upper valve housing 2 until it passes through the through hole 3 at the top of the upper valve housing 2, and then use the first snap ring 30 to limit the valve stem 29 to the top wall of the upper valve housing 2.

[0062] Insert the base 11 into the lower valve housing 4 from the top of the lower valve housing 4 until it abuts against the second support surface 10.

[0063] Insert the reset component 26 into the lower valve housing 4 from the top until it abuts against the first support surface 9; insert the temperature sensing component 27 into the lower valve housing 4 from the top until its bottom is placed into the positioning groove 13; insert the assembled temperature sensing and water control component 15 into the lower valve housing 4 from the top, and insert the bottom end of the temperature bulb 16 into the water outlet hole 12.

[0064] The installation is complete when the lower valve housing 4 and the upper valve housing 2 are joined together and screwed into place.

[0065] The operating principle of the thermostatic valve provided in this embodiment is as follows:

[0066] like Figure 6As shown, before use, the temperature sensing element 27 detects that the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 is at the second temperature extension, and pushes the first sealing element 23 upward and completely blocks the cold water inlet hole 6. At this time, the cold water inlet hole 6 cannot input cold water into the mixing chamber 5, and the hot water inlet hole 7 is opened to the maximum. When not in use, the cold water stored between the water heater and the thermostatic valve flows through the hot water inlet hole 7 and the mixing chamber 5 and is quickly discharged from the outlet hole 12. During this process, the cold water at one end of the cold water inlet hole 6 cannot flow in, so the cooling speed is fast, which can reduce the user's waiting time and improve the user experience.

[0067] like Figure 7 As shown, when the cold water is drained, hot water inlet 7 gradually injects hot water into the mixing chamber 5. When the temperature sensor 16 detects that the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 is higher than the first temperature, it begins to change its volume according to the temperature change. When the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 exceeds the set temperature value of the temperature sensor 16, the temperature sensor 16 expands downward, causing the second seal 17 to reduce the water inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet 7 and the first seal 23 to increase the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet 6 through the connector 22. When the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 is lower than the set temperature value of the temperature sensor 16, the temperature sensor 16 contracts and moves upward under the action of the reset member 26. At this time, it causes the second seal 17 to increase the water inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet 7 and the first seal 23 to reduce the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet 6 through the connector 22. This adjustment is repeated until the water temperature in the mixing chamber 5 reaches the preset temperature value.

[0068] like Figure 8 As shown, when the water temperature suddenly drops due to water pressure during use, the temperature sensing element 27 responds preferentially to the water temperature value that is lower than the first temperature, and expands and gradually pushes the first sealing element 23 upward to reduce the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet hole 6. During this process, the cold water inlet volume gradually decreases and is linearly adjusted, while the hot water inlet volume remains unchanged. Therefore, the water temperature will gradually return to a constant temperature.

[0069] This application embodiment also provides a shower (not shown in the figure), the shower includes a shower body and the above-mentioned thermostatic valve; the shower body is provided with a cold water channel, a hot water channel and a water outlet channel; the cold water channel and the hot water channel are respectively adapted to receive cold water and hot water; the water outlet channel is adapted to output mixed water; the thermostatic valve is installed in the shower body; the cold water channel is connected to the cold water inlet hole 6; the hot water channel is connected to the hot water inlet hole 7; the water outlet channel is connected to the water outlet hole 12.

[0070] The shower uses the aforementioned thermostatic valve, thus inheriting all the advantages of thermostatic valves. It has the function of quickly responding to sudden drops in temperature and rapidly restoring the outlet water temperature to a constant level, thereby well meeting the user's needs and reducing the risk of use.

[0071] The foregoing description of the specifications and embodiments is intended to explain the scope of protection of this invention, but does not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Modifications, equivalent substitutions, or other improvements to the embodiments of this invention or a portion thereof that can be obtained by those skilled in the art through logical analysis, reasoning, or limited experimentation, based on the teachings of this invention or the foregoing embodiments, in conjunction with common knowledge, general technical knowledge, and / or existing technology, should all be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A thermostatic valve, characterized in that it comprises: The valve body (1) is provided with a mixing chamber (5) and a cold water inlet (6), a hot water inlet (7) and an outlet (12) that are connected to the mixing chamber (5); A thermostatic component (14), which is placed inside the valve body (1), includes a temperature-sensing water control element (15), an elastic connector (22), and a first seal (23); the two ends of the connector (22) along its elastic deformation direction are respectively fixed to the temperature-sensing water control element (15) and the first seal (23); the temperature-sensing water control element (15) is adapted to sense the water temperature of the mixing chamber (5), and based on the water temperature change, it extends or shortens to reduce and increase the water inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet hole (7) respectively, and drives the first seal (23) to correspondingly increase and decrease the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet hole (6); the lowest response temperature of the temperature-sensing water control element (15) is a first temperature; The temperature sensing element (27) is placed inside the valve body (1). It is adapted to sense the water temperature of the mixing chamber (5) and, when the water temperature is lower than the first temperature, drives the first sealing element (23) to overcome the elastic movement of the connecting element (22) and gradually reduces the water inlet area of ​​the cold water inlet hole (6) as the water temperature decreases. The temperature sensing element (27) has a greater response speed to temperature than the temperature sensing and water control element (15).

2. The thermostatic valve as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature sensing element (27) is adapted to drive the first sealing element (23) to close the cold water inlet (6) when the water temperature in the mixing chamber (5) is lower than the second temperature; the second temperature is lower than the first temperature.

3. A thermostatic valve as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The temperature-sensing water control component (15) includes a temperature bulb (16) and a second sealing element (17); the temperature bulb (16) is adapted to expand or contract according to the water temperature change of the mixing chamber (5); the second sealing element (17) is fixedly connected to the temperature bulb (16) and is used to adjust the water inlet area of ​​the hot water inlet hole (7).

4. A thermostatic valve as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The temperature sensor (16) is a paraffin temperature sensor (16); the temperature sensing element (27) is a memory metal spring.

5. A thermostatic valve as described in claim 4, characterized in that, Along the axial direction of the valve body (1), the first seal (23) is relatively far from the mixing chamber (5) relative to the second seal (17); a water passage is formed between the first seal (23) and the second seal (17) to connect the cold water inlet (6) and the mixing chamber (5); the temperature sensing element (27) is placed in the mixing chamber (5) and is adapted to expand when the water temperature is sensed to be lower than the first temperature and to contract to a minimum size when the water temperature is sensed to be higher than the first temperature.

6. A thermostatic valve as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The first sealing member (23) is provided with an abutting portion (25) extending toward the mixing chamber (5); the abutting portion (25) is used for the temperature sensing element (27) to abut; the second sealing member (17) is provided with a relief hole (19) for avoiding the abutting portion (25).

7. A thermostatic valve as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The thermostatic component (14) further includes a reset member (26); the reset member (26) abuts against the valve body (1) and the thermostat (16) or the second seal (17) along the axial direction of the valve body (1), and is adapted to push the thermostat (16) back to its original position in the direction of increasing the hot water inlet (7) when the thermostat (16) contracts.

8. A thermostatic valve as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an operating component (28); the operating component (28) includes a valve stem (29), a nut (31), an elastic element (33), and a cap (34); The valve stem (29) is axially limited and rotatably connected to the valve body (1), with one end extending out of the valve body (1) for operation, and the other end located inside the valve body (1) and screwed to the nut (31); the nut (31) is axially slidably disposed inside the valve body (1) and is anti-rotationally engaged with the valve body (1); the elastic element (33) abuts against the nut (31) and the top cap (34) axially; the end of the temperature-sensing water control element (15) away from the mixing chamber (5) abuts against the top cap (34).

9. A shower unit, characterized in that, The shower includes a shower body and a thermostatic valve as described in any one of claims 1 to 8; the shower body is provided with a cold water channel, a hot water channel, and a water outlet channel; the cold water channel and the hot water channel are respectively adapted to receive cold water and hot water; the water outlet channel is adapted to output mixed water; The thermostatic valve is installed inside the shower body; the cold water channel is connected to the cold water inlet (6); the hot water channel is connected to the hot water inlet (7); and the water outlet channel is connected to the water outlet (12).

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