Water mixing valve and water outlet device

Abstract

The application discloses a water mixing valve and water outlet equipment, and relates to the field of bathroom equipment.The water mixing valve comprises a valve body, a first control device and a spiral flow guide structure, the valve body is provided with a first water inlet channel, a second water inlet channel and a water outlet channel, water flows into the valve body through the first water inlet channel and the second water inlet channel, and then is mixed in the water outlet channel to form outlet water.The opening of the first water outlet can be adjusted by changing the position of the first piston, so that the flow of hot water can be adjusted to adjust the outlet water temperature.When the water flows through the first flow guide surface and the first water outlet, the spiral flow guide structure is arranged at least one of the inner wall of the first water outlet, the first flow guide surface and the inner wall of the water outlet channel, so that the spiral flow guide structure can guide the water to rotate spirally, and the stirring effect of the water flow is enhanced, so that the uniformity of the mixing of water flows with different temperatures in the water outlet channel is improved, the situation of uneven cold and hot water is reduced when the water is discharged, and the use experience of the user can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of bathroom equipment, and in particular to a mixing valve and a water outlet device. Background Technology

[0002] A mixing valve can mix cold and hot water, and by controlling the flow rate of either cold or hot water, the final outlet water temperature can be adjusted. In related technologies, mixing valves can automatically adjust the outlet water temperature based on a user-set temperature. For example, a temperature sensor can acquire the outlet water temperature and feed it back to the controller. After comparing this temperature with the user-set temperature, the controller controls the valve opening to adjust the temperature. However, when the cold and hot water are not mixed evenly, the detection error can increase, potentially leading to a significant deviation between the final outlet water temperature and the user-set temperature. This results in fluctuating outlet water temperatures, reducing the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes a mixing valve that can improve the uniformity of mixing cold and hot water, thereby enhancing the user experience.

[0004] The present invention also proposes a water outlet device having the above-mentioned mixing valve.

[0005] A mixing valve according to a first aspect of the present invention includes:

[0006] The valve body has a first water inlet channel, a second water inlet channel and a water outlet channel inside. The first water inlet channel and the second water inlet channel can communicate with the water outlet channel. The first water inlet channel has a first water outlet.

[0007] The first control device includes a first piston, which is used to adjust the opening of the first water outlet. The first piston has a first guide surface along the direction from the water inlet end of the first water outlet to the water outlet end of the first water outlet.

[0008] A spiral flow guiding structure is disposed at least at one of the inner wall of the first water inlet, the first flow guiding surface, and the inner wall of the water outlet channel.

[0009] The mixing valve according to embodiments of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0010] Water flows into the valve body through the first and second inlet channels, and then mixes in the outlet channel before exiting. For example, the first inlet channel can be connected to hot water, and the second inlet channel to cold water. By changing the position of the first piston, the opening of the first through-hole can be adjusted, thereby regulating the flow rate of hot water and thus the outlet water temperature. When the water flows through the first guide surface and the first through-hole, the spiral guide structure, located at least at one of the inner walls of the first through-hole, the first guide surface, and the outlet channel, guides the water flow to rotate in a spiral, enhancing the agitation effect and improving the uniformity of mixing water of different temperatures in the outlet channel. This reduces uneven heating and cooling at the outlet, improving the user experience.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the spiral guide structure includes a plurality of spiral ribs, the plurality of ribs being arranged circumferentially along the first guide surface; or

[0012] The spiral flow guiding structure includes multiple spiral grooves, which are arranged circumferentially along the first flow guiding surface.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the helix angle of the rib is α1, satisfying: 10°≤α1≤50°, or the helix angle of the groove is α2, satisfying: 10°≤α2≤50°.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first guide surface is provided with at least three of the said ribs or the said grooves.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first guide surface is inclined in the direction close to the axis of the first piston along the direction from the inlet end of the first water outlet to the outlet end of the first water outlet.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the inclination angle of the first guide surface is β1, which satisfies: 5°≤β1≤25°.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the second water inlet channel is provided with a second water outlet, and the mixing valve further includes a second control device. The second control device includes a second piston for adjusting the opening of the second water outlet. The second piston has a second guide surface along the direction from the water inlet end of the second water outlet to the water outlet end of the second water outlet. The second guide surface and / or the inner wall of the second water outlet are provided with the spiral guide structure.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first control device further includes a first connector, the first piston is provided with mounting holes extending through both ends thereto, the first connector is disposed in the mounting holes and is capable of sealing the mounting holes, when the first connector moves a first distance away from the first water outlet, the first water inlet channel is connected to the water outlet channel through the mounting holes, when the first connector moves a second distance away from the first water outlet, the first connector drives the first piston to move to open the first water outlet.

[0019] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the peripheral wall of the end of the first connector that protrudes from the mounting hole is provided with an annular groove, and a limiting piece is sleeved in the annular groove. The limiting piece can abut against one end of the first piston so that the first connector drives the first piston to move.

[0020] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first connector has a first mating surface on the side wall facing the mounting hole, and the inner wall of the mounting hole has a second mating surface, wherein the first mating surface can seal with the second mating surface.

[0021] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first control device further includes a first motor, and the first motor and the first connector are driven to be connected.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the mixing valve further includes a water softening device, which is connected to the first inlet channel, the second inlet channel, or the outlet channel.

[0023] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the mixing valve further includes an installation pipe, one end of which is connected to the valve body, the other end of which is connected to the water softening device, and the inner cavity of the installation pipe is in communication with the first water inlet channel.

[0024] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the water softening device is installed in the water outlet channel.

[0025] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the water softening device includes a housing and a filter screen, wherein a receiving cavity for containing a treatment medium is formed within the housing, and the filter screen is disposed within the receiving cavity and covers the opening of the receiving cavity.

[0026] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the water outlet device includes the mixing valve described in the above embodiments.

[0027] The water outlet device according to embodiments of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0028] The water in the mixing valve enters the valve body through the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel, and then mixes with the water in the outlet channel before being discharged. For example, the first inlet channel can be connected to hot water, and the second inlet channel can be connected to cold water. By changing the opening of the first outlet by adjusting the first piston, the flow rate of hot water can be adjusted to regulate the outlet water temperature. When the water flows through the first guide surface and the first outlet, the spiral guide structure, which is located at least at one of the inner walls of the first outlet, the first guide surface, and the outlet channel, guides the water flow to rotate in a spiral, enhancing the agitation effect and improving the uniformity of mixing of water flows of different temperatures in the outlet channel. This reduces uneven heating and cooling at the outlet, thus improving the user experience.

[0029] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0030] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments, wherein:

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a mixing valve according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of a mixing valve according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Enlarged view of point A in the image;

[0034] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first piston according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first piston according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a first piston blocking a first water inlet according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the first connector moving to a first position according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the first connector moving to the second position according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 9 This is a side view of a mixing valve according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 Sectional view at point BB;

[0041] Figure 11 This is a top view of a mixing valve according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A sectional view at CC;

[0043] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of a water softening treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure label:

[0045] Mixing valve 1000;

[0046] Valve body 100; first inlet channel 110; first outlet 111; second inlet channel 120; second outlet 121; outlet channel 130; installation pipe 140;

[0047] First control device 200; first piston 210; first guide surface 211; mounting hole 212; second mating surface 213; first connector 220; annular groove 221; limiting piece 222; first mating surface 223; first motor 230;

[0048] Second control device 300; second piston 310; second motor 330;

[0049] Spiral guide structure 400; raised rib 410; groove 420;

[0050] Soft water treatment device 500; outer shell 510; receiving cavity 511; treatment medium 512; filter screen 520; first pipe section 530; second pipe section 540; first through hole 550; second through hole 560; sealing element 570; check valve 590. Detailed Implementation

[0051] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0052] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation descriptions, such as up, down, front, back, left, right, etc., are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention 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 limiting this invention.

[0053] In the description of this invention, "several" means one or more, "more than" means two or more, "greater than," "less than," and "exceeding" are understood to exclude the stated number, while "above," "below," and "within" are understood to include the stated number. The use of "first" and "second" in the description is merely for distinguishing technical features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features, or implicitly indicating the order of the indicated technical features.

[0054] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly defined, terms such as "set up," "install," and "connect" should be interpreted broadly, and those skilled in the art can reasonably determine the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention in conjunction with the specific content of the technical solution.

[0055] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The dashed arrows in the diagram indicate the direction of water flow. A mixing valve 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention can be used to mix two different water flows before discharging water, for example, mixing cold water and hot water in different proportions to adjust the outlet water temperature. The mixing valve 1000 of this embodiment includes a valve body 100 and a first control device 200. The valve body 100 has a first inlet channel 110, a second inlet channel 120, and an outlet channel 130 inside. The first inlet channel 110 has a first water outlet 111, and the first inlet channel 110 can communicate with the outlet channel 130 through the first water outlet 111. The second inlet channel 120 has a second water outlet 121, and the second inlet channel 120 can communicate with the outlet channel 130 through the second water outlet 121. The first control device 200 includes a first piston 210, which cooperates with a first water outlet 111. By moving the first piston 210, the opening of the first water outlet 111 can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the flow rate through the first water outlet 111.

[0056] For example, the first inlet channel 110 is connected to hot water, and the second inlet channel 120 is connected to cold water, or the first inlet channel 110 is connected to cold water, and the second inlet channel 120 is connected to hot water. For ease of explanation, all subsequent embodiments will be described using the example of the first inlet channel 110 being connected to hot water and the second inlet channel 120 being connected to cold water. Hot water enters from the first inlet channel 110, passes through the first water outlet 111, and enters the outlet channel 130. Cold water enters from the second inlet channel 120, passes through the second water outlet 121, and enters the outlet channel 130, where it mixes with the hot water and finally exits from devices such as shower heads and faucets. When it is necessary to adjust the outlet water temperature, the position of the first piston 210 is moved to change the opening of the first water outlet 111, thereby adjusting the hot water inlet flow rate. When it is necessary to increase the outlet water temperature, the opening of the first water outlet 111 is increased; when it is necessary to decrease the outlet water temperature, the opening of the first water outlet 111 is decreased. When only cold water is needed, the opening of the first water inlet 111 is reduced to zero, that is, the first piston 210 blocks the first water inlet 111.

[0057] To improve the uniformity of mixing cold and hot water, refer to Figure 4 As shown, in an embodiment of the present invention, the first piston 210 has a first guide surface 211 along the direction from the inlet end of the first water outlet 111 to the outlet end of the first water outlet 111. The mixing valve 1000 also includes a spiral guide structure 400, which is disposed at least at one of the inner wall of the first water outlet 111, the first guide surface 211, and the inner wall of the outlet channel 130. For example, if the spiral guide structure 400 is disposed on the first guide surface 211, hot water will pass through the first guide surface 211 when it passes through the first water outlet 111. Under the guidance of the spiral guide structure 400, the hot water flows in a spiral shape, which strengthens the agitation of the water flow, improves the uniformity of mixing with cold water, reduces uneven heating and cooling, and improves the user experience.

[0058] When the mixing valve 1000 adopts a constant temperature water outlet scheme, that is, after the user sets the corresponding temperature, the mixing valve 1000 can adjust the outlet water temperature to the set temperature. Specifically, the mixing valve 1000 is equipped with a temperature sensor and a controller. The temperature sensor detects the outlet water temperature in the outlet channel 130 and feeds the corresponding signal back to the controller. The controller controls the displacement of the first piston 210, thereby adjusting the opening degree of the first water outlet 111 to regulate the outlet water temperature. When cold and hot water are mixed evenly, the detection accuracy of the temperature sensor is improved, reducing the increase in detection error caused by uneven heating and cooling, and improving the accuracy of temperature regulation by preventing the outlet water temperature from being too high or too low.

[0059] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, in an embodiment of the present invention, the spiral flow guiding structure 400 includes a plurality of spiral ribs 410, which are spaced apart circumferentially along the first flow guiding surface 211 and extend spirally along the water flow direction. A flow guiding groove is formed between adjacent ribs 410, allowing water to flow along the extension direction of the flow guiding groove, thereby generating a spiral flow. The spiral direction of the ribs 410 can be clockwise or counterclockwise, and they can cover the entire first flow guiding surface 211 or occupy only a portion of it. In another embodiment of the present invention, the spiral flow guiding structure 400 may also include a plurality of spiral grooves 420, which are spaced apart circumferentially along the first flow guiding surface 211. Water flows along the extension direction of the grooves 420, ultimately forming a spiral flow. The grooves 420 can be arranged clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on the specific circumstances.

[0060] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in embodiments of the present invention, the number of protruding ribs 410 or grooves 420 is at least three. It is understood that when the number of protruding ribs 410 or grooves 420 is less than three, the water flow is difficult to achieve a spiral shape, and the uniformity of the mixing of cold and hot water deteriorates. This is because having at least three protruding ribs 410 or grooves 420 effectively guides the water flow in a spiral shape, thereby improving the uniformity of the mixing of cold and hot water.

[0061] In embodiments of the present invention, the helix angle of the rib 410 is α1, satisfying: 10°≤α1≤50°, for example, α1=15°, α1=20°, α1=25°, α1=30°. The helix angle of the rib 410 refers to the acute angle between the generatrix of the first guide surface 211 and the tangent of the edge contour line of the rib 410. Taking the helix angle of the rib 410 as an example, when α1 is less than 10°, the angle of the helix angle is too small, making it difficult to guide the water flow to rotate and generate a spiral water flow; when α1 is greater than 50°, the angle of the helix angle is too large, and the water flow is prone to detach from the guide channel, thus making it difficult to form a spiral water flow. Therefore, limiting α1 to the range of 10° to 50° can ensure that most of the water flow rotates in a spiral shape, thereby improving the uniformity of the mixing of cold and hot water.

[0062] In another embodiment of the present invention, the helix angle of the groove 420 is α2, satisfying: 10°≤α2≤50°, for example, α2=15°, α2=20°, α2=25°, α2=30°. The helix angle of the groove 420 refers to the acute angle between the generatrix of the first guide surface 211 and the tangent to the edge contour line of the groove 420. The effect is basically the same as the parameter limitation of the helix angle of the rib 410 mentioned above, and will not be repeated here.

[0063] To further improve the mixing effect of cold and hot water, refer to Figure 7 As shown in the embodiment of the present invention, the water outlet direction of the first water inlet 111 is perpendicular to the extension direction of the water outlet channel 130, and the water outlet direction of the second water inlet 121 is perpendicular to the extension direction of the water outlet channel 130. Therefore, after the hot water and cold water pass through the first water inlet 111 and the second water inlet 121 respectively, they can directly impact the inner wall of the water outlet channel 130, further increasing the agitation of the hot and cold water and making the hot and cold water mix more evenly.

[0064] Reference Figure 4 As shown in the embodiment of the present invention, along the direction from the inlet end of the first water outlet 111 to the outlet end of the first water outlet 111, the first guide surface 211 is inclined towards the axis of the first piston 210. This facilitates adjusting the opening size of the first water outlet 111 by translation, thereby changing the water flow rate of the first water inlet channel 110 and conveniently adjusting the outlet water temperature.

[0065] Continue to refer to Figure 4 As shown in the embodiment of the present invention, the inclination angle of the first guide surface 211 is β1, satisfying: 5°≤β1≤25°. For example, β1=10°, β1=15°, β1=20°. When β1 is less than 5°, the mating area between the first piston 210 and the first water outlet 111 becomes larger, resulting in a longer stroke required for the first piston 210 to move when the flow rate increases from zero to the maximum flow rate, i.e., the time required for feedback adjustment increases. At the same time, in order to ensure the sealing performance when the first piston 210 closes the first water outlet 111, the length of the first piston 210 will be increased, resulting in an increase in the overall structural size of the mixing valve 1000, a larger space occupation, and an increased cost. When β1 is greater than 25°, in order to ensure that the end wall of the first water inlet 111 can seal with the first guide surface 211, the inclination angle of the end wall of the first water inlet 111 is basically the same as the inclination angle of the first guide surface 211. At the same time, the distance between the end walls of the first water inlet 111 increases, resulting in a smaller water passage cross-section of the first water inlet 111 and insufficient flow. It also easily leads to a reduction in the flow control area between the first guide surface 211 and the first water inlet 111, resulting in a larger fluctuation range when adjusting the water flow, making it difficult to control the flow during fine-tuning, and causing a larger temperature change range. Therefore, a reasonable design of the inclination angle of the first guide surface 211 is necessary to reduce the size of the first water inlet 111 and the first piston 210 while still meeting the water flow requirements, facilitating flow control, and improving the accuracy of temperature regulation.

[0066] Reference Figure 3As shown in the embodiment of the present invention, the first control device 200 further includes a first motor 230 and a first connector 220. The first piston 210 is provided with mounting holes 212 extending through its left and right ends, and the first connector 220 is capable of sealing within the mounting holes 212. The first motor 230 is connected to the valve body 100 and driven by the first connector 220, thus the first motor 230 can drive the first connector 220 to move. Assuming the default state is that the first piston 210 seals the first water outlet 111, when the first motor 230 drives the first piston 210 to move to the left through the first connector 220, the first piston 210 opens the first water outlet 111. During the process of the first piston 210 moving to the left, the opening of the first water outlet 111 gradually increases from zero to its maximum. Therefore, by changing the relative distance between the first piston 210 and the first water outlet 111, the flow rate can be adjusted.

[0067] Understandably, if the first piston 210 were directly driven by the motor to open the first water inlet 111, the water pressure to be overcome would be large, increasing the torque required by the motor and thus increasing power consumption. Therefore, when the first motor 230 drives the first connector 220 to move a first distance away from the first water inlet 111 (i.e., the first connector 220 moves a first distance to the left), the first connector 220 opens the mounting hole 212, connecting the first water inlet channel 110 to the water outlet channel 130, allowing water to flow from the mounting hole 212 into the water outlet channel 130. When the first connector 220 continues to move a second distance to the left, it can drive the first piston 210 to open the first water inlet 111. Using this solution, because the pressure-bearing area of ​​the first connector 220 is small, the torque required to open the mounting hole 212 is smaller, reducing the power consumption of the first motor 230. After the mounting hole 212 is opened, water flows into the water outlet channel 130, which reduces the pressure difference between the two ends of the first piston 210. Therefore, the torque required to move the first piston 210 through the first connector 220 is reduced, and the power consumption is reduced.

[0068] Reference Figure 6 As shown, in an embodiment of the present invention, the peripheral wall of the end of the first connector 220 that protrudes from the mounting hole 212 is provided with an annular groove 221, and a limiting piece 222 is fitted into the annular groove 221. When the first piston 210 is in the initial position, the limiting piece 222 and the right end of the first piston 210 are spaced apart; refer to Figure 7 As shown, when the first connector 220 moves a first distance to the left, the limiting piece 222 and the right end of the first piston 210 abut against each other, and the first connector 220 opens the mounting hole 212, allowing water to flow through the mounting hole 212 into the outlet channel 130. (Refer to...) Figure 8As shown, when the first connector 220 moves a second distance to the left, with the cooperation of the limiting plate 222 and the first piston 210, the first connector 220 can drive the first piston 210 to move to open the first water inlet 111. Under the action of the water flow, the right end of the first piston 210 separates from the limiting plate 222, and the first connector 220 seals the mounting hole 212. Using the above solution can reduce the torque and power consumption required by the first motor 230, and the structure is simple, reasonable, and reliable.

[0069] To improve the sealing performance of the first connector 220 when sealing the mounting hole 212, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown in the embodiment of the present invention, the first connector 220 has an inclined first mating surface 223 on the side wall facing the mounting hole 212, and the inner wall of the mounting hole 212 has an inclined second mating surface 213. The inclination direction of the first mating surface 223 is the same as that of the second mating surface 213. By sealing the first mating surface 223 and the second mating surface 213, the sealing performance of the mounting hole 212 can be guaranteed, and the leakage and seepage can be reduced.

[0070] During use, the mixing valve 1000 may experience issues where the hot water temperature is insufficient. Even when the opening of the first inlet 111 is adjusted to its maximum, the outlet water temperature remains too low to meet the user's water usage needs. To resolve this issue, refer to... Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown in the embodiment of the present invention, the mixing valve 1000 further includes a second control device 300, which includes a second piston 310. The second piston 310 cooperates with the second water outlet 121 to adjust the opening degree of the second water outlet 121. It can be understood that when the opening degree of the first water outlet 111 is adjusted to its maximum, but the outlet water temperature is still too low, the outlet water temperature can be increased by reducing the opening degree of the second water outlet 121, i.e., reducing the flow rate of cold water. Furthermore, the flow rate of cold water can be adjusted to zero, meaning the second piston 310 can seal the second water outlet 121. Therefore, by adjusting the opening degrees of the first water outlet 111 and the second water outlet 121, the outlet water temperature is ensured to meet the user's needs as much as possible.

[0071] In an embodiment of the present invention, the second control device 300 includes a second motor 330 and a second connector. The second motor 330 is connected to the second piston 310 via the second connector. Therefore, the second motor 330 can drive the second piston 310 to move, thereby adjusting the opening of the second water outlet 121 and thus adjusting the flow rate through the second water outlet 121. It should be noted that the structure of the second control device 300 is similar to that of the first control device 200, and the beneficial effects are similar, so they will not be described again here.

[0072] Reference Figure 1 As shown in the embodiments of the present invention, the mixing valve 1000 further includes a water softening device 500, which is connected to a first inlet channel 110, a second inlet channel 120, or an outlet channel 130. The water softening device 500 is used to reduce scale formation by releasing a scale inhibitor, which affects the nucleation and growth process of scale crystals, alters the adhesion and dispersion properties of scale, thereby improving or delaying the effect of scale accumulation on the inner surface of the valve body 100, reducing the blockage of various openings, reducing the impact of scale on the interior of the valve body 100 and the detection accuracy of the temperature sensor, and improving the service life of the mixing valve 1000.

[0073] For example, the water softening device 500 contains a treatment medium 512, such as a multi-element alloy, or it can release a FOF (Follicular Unit Extract) scale inhibitor. The FOF scale inhibitor is a substance that prevents scale formation. Its chemical structure can be designed to react with ions or solutes in the water to form stable complexes or colloidal particles, forming a protective film covering the inner surface of the valve body 100 to prevent scale adhesion and deposition. The multi-element alloy can be a copper-based catalyst alloy. Without changing the water composition or pH, the copper-based catalyst alloy continuously releases free electrons, reducing the cation concentration in the water and altering the electrostatic potential, thereby reducing the scaling index and thus reducing scale formation.

[0074] Reference Figure 10 As shown, in an embodiment of the present invention, the water softening device 500 includes a housing 510 and a filter screen 520. The housing 510 has a receiving cavity 511 for containing the treatment medium 512. The filter screen 520 is disposed within the receiving cavity 511 and covers the opening of the receiving cavity 511. The filter screen 520 allows the scale inhibitor released by the treatment medium 512 to pass through, while preventing the entire treatment medium 512 from being discharged through the opening of the receiving cavity 511. The scale inhibitor needs to be replenished promptly after use. If the scale inhibitor is continuously released at any time, the loss is significant, the replenishment frequency is high, and the cost is high. Therefore, referring to… Figure 13As shown, in an embodiment of the present invention, the water softening device 500 stops releasing scale inhibitor when water is discharged from the mixing valve 1000, and releases scale inhibitor into the first inlet channel 110, the second inlet channel 120, or the outlet channel 130 when water is stopped from being discharged from the mixing valve 1000. The housing 510 is also provided with a scale inhibitor along the water outlet direction (…). Figure 13 The first pipe segment 530 and the second pipe segment 540 (connected sequentially by the dotted arrows in the diagram) are arranged alternately with the receiving cavity 511. It should be noted that the first pipe segment 530 and the second pipe segment 540 are located within the water outlet channel 130, meaning the water flow within the water outlet channel 130 must pass through the first pipe segment 530 and the second pipe segment 540. Along the direction from the first pipe segment 530 to the second pipe segment 540, the inner diameter of the first pipe segment 530 gradually decreases, while the inner diameter of the second pipe segment 540 remains essentially unchanged. Therefore, as the water flows from the first pipe segment 530 to the second pipe segment 540, the water flow velocity gradually increases, while the water pressure gradually decreases, resulting in a relatively high pressure in the first pipe segment 530 and a relatively low pressure in the second pipe segment 540. That is, during the water flow, the water pressure in the first pipe segment 530 is greater than the water pressure in the second pipe segment 540; when the water flow stops, the water pressure in the first pipe segment 530 is equal to the water pressure in the second pipe segment 540.

[0075] The outer casing 510 also has a first through hole 550 and a second through hole 560, which are located between the receiving cavity 511, the first pipe section 530, and the second pipe section 540. The first pipe section 530 is connected to the receiving cavity 511 through the first through hole 550, and the second pipe section 540 is connected to the opening of the receiving cavity 511 through the second through hole 560. A check valve 590 is provided in the first through hole 550, allowing water in the first pipe section 530 to flow into the receiving cavity 511 in one direction. A sealing element 570 is provided in the second through hole 560, which can block or open the second through hole 560.

[0076] It should be noted that the sealing element 570 can open or close the second through hole 560 in the following ways: the density of the sealing element 570 is less than that of water, allowing it to float in the water and thus open the second through hole 560; it can also close the second through hole 560 under water pressure; or the sealing element 570 may have a cavity, and the buoyancy of the cavity can be used to lift the sealing element 570, which then closes the second through hole 560 under water pressure. Alternatively, the sealing element 570 can open the second through hole 560 through the elastic force of a spring, or it can close the second through hole 560 by overcoming the elastic force of the spring under water pressure. The appropriate solution should be selected based on the actual situation.

[0077] Therefore, the working process of the soft water treatment device 500 can be as follows: When water is discharged from the mixing valve 1000, that is, the water flows along the first pipe section 530 to the second pipe section 540. The water pressure in the first pipe section 530 is greater than the water pressure in the second pipe section 540. Since the first pipe section 530 is connected to the receiving cavity 511 through the first through hole 550, the pressure in the receiving cavity 511 is the same as the pressure in the first pipe section 530, resulting in a pressure difference between the receiving cavity 511 and the second pipe section 540. That is, the sealing element 570 closes the second through hole 560 under the action of water pressure. Furthermore, a check valve 590 is provided in the first through hole 550, meaning that the scale inhibitor in the receiving cavity 511 cannot be discharged into the drainage channel through the first through hole 550 and the second through hole 560. When the mixing valve 1000 stops discharging water, the water pressure in the first pipe section 530 is the same as that in the second pipe section 540. This means that the sealing element 570 can open the second through hole 560 under the action of the spring or its own buoyancy, allowing the scale inhibitor to be discharged from the second through hole 560 to the water outlet channel 130, thereby reducing scale formation. Simultaneously, this reduces the frequency of replacing the treatment medium 512, lowers the operating cost of the water softening device 500, and extends its service life.

[0078] Reference Figure 10 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, the water softening device 500 can be connected to the outside of the outlet channel 130, and the receiving cavity 511 can communicate with the outlet channel 130. In another embodiment of the present invention, the water softening device 500 can also be entirely located within the outlet channel 130. In this case, the water softening device 500 can continuously release elements that reduce scale formation without waiting for the mixing valve 1000 to close. In another embodiment of the present invention, the mixing valve 1000 further includes an installation pipe 140. One end of the installation pipe 140 is connected to the valve body 100, and the other end of the installation pipe 140 is connected to the water softening device 500. The inner cavity of the installation pipe 140 communicates with the first inlet channel 110. The installation pipe 140 extends in the left-right direction and is located below the first water outlet 111. The specific installation position of the water softening device 500 is selected according to the actual situation.

[0079] One embodiment of the water outlet device of the present invention can be a shower set, faucet assembly, etc. The water outlet device includes the mixing valve 1000 of the above embodiment. In this embodiment of the water outlet device, using the mixing valve 1000 of the above embodiment, water flows into the valve body 100 through the first inlet channel 110 and the second inlet channel 120 respectively, and then mixes in the outlet channel 130 before being discharged. For example, the first inlet channel 110 is connected to hot water, and the second inlet channel 120 is connected to cold water. By changing the position of the first piston 210 to adjust the opening of the first water outlet 111, the flow rate of hot water can be adjusted to regulate the outlet water temperature. When water flows through the first guide surface 211 and the first inlet 111, the spiral guide structure 400, located at least once on the inner wall of the first inlet 111, the first guide surface 211, and the inner wall of the outlet channel 130, guides the water flow in a spiral rotation, enhancing the agitation effect and improving the uniformity of water mixing at different temperatures within the outlet channel 130. This reduces uneven heating and cooling during water output, improving the user experience. The mixing valve 1000 also includes a water softening device 500, which releases an antiscalant to reduce scale formation inside the first inlet channel 110, the second inlet channel 120, or the outlet channel 130. This also mitigates the problem of scale buildup on the temperature sensor, which reduces accuracy, thus improving the accuracy and lifespan of the mixing valve 1000's temperature control.

[0080] Since the water outlet equipment adopts all the technical solutions of the mixing valve 1000 in the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions in the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0081] The embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Within the scope of knowledge possessed by those skilled in the art, various changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

Claims

1. A mixing valve, characterized in that, include: The valve body has a first water inlet channel, a second water inlet channel and a water outlet channel inside. The first water inlet channel and the second water inlet channel can communicate with the water outlet channel. The first water inlet channel has a first water outlet. The first control device includes a first piston, which is used to adjust the opening of the first water outlet. The first piston has a first guide surface along the direction from the water inlet end of the first water outlet to the water outlet end of the first water outlet. A spiral guide structure is disposed at least at one of the inner wall of the first water inlet, the first guide surface, and the inner wall of the water outlet channel; the first guide surface is inclined towards the axis of the first piston along the direction from the water inlet end to the water outlet end of the first water inlet; the second water inlet channel is provided with a second water inlet, and the mixing valve further includes a second control device, the second control device including a second piston for adjusting the opening of the second water inlet, the second piston having a second guide surface along the direction from the water inlet end to the water outlet end of the second water inlet, the spiral guide structure being provided on the second guide surface and / or the inner wall of the second water inlet; the spiral guide structure includes a plurality of spiral ribs, the plurality of ribs being arranged circumferentially along the first guide surface; or The spiral flow guiding structure includes multiple spiral grooves, which are arranged circumferentially along the first flow guiding surface.

2. The mixing valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The helix angle of the convex rib is α1, satisfying: 10°≤α1≤50°, or the helix angle of the groove is α2, satisfying: 10°≤α2≤50°.

3. The mixing valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first guide surface is provided with at least three of the aforementioned ribs or grooves.

4. The mixing valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inclination angle of the first guide surface is β1, which satisfies: 5°≤β1≤25°.

5. The mixing valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first control device further includes a first connector. The first piston has mounting holes extending through both ends thereto. The first connector is located in the mounting holes and can seal the mounting holes. When the first connector moves a first distance away from the first water outlet, the first water inlet channel is connected to the water outlet channel through the mounting holes. When the first connector moves a second distance away from the first water outlet, the first connector drives the first piston to move to open the first water outlet.

6. The mixing valve according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first connector has an annular groove on the peripheral wall of one end of the mounting hole. A limiting piece is fitted in the annular groove. The limiting piece can abut against one end of the first piston so that the first connector can drive the first piston to move.

7. The mixing valve according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first connector has a first mating surface on the side wall facing the mounting hole, and the inner wall of the mounting hole has a second mating surface. The first mating surface can seal with the second mating surface.

8. The mixing valve according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first control device further includes a first motor, which is driven to connect to the first connector.

9. The mixing valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mixing valve also includes a water softening device, which is connected to the first inlet channel, the second inlet channel, or the outlet channel.

10. The mixing valve according to claim 9, characterized in that, The mixing valve also includes an installation pipe, one end of which is connected to the valve body, and the other end of which is connected to the water softening device. The inner cavity of the installation pipe is connected to the first water inlet channel.

11. The mixing valve according to claim 9, characterized in that, The water softening device is installed inside the water outlet channel.

12. The mixing valve according to claim 9, characterized in that, The water softening device includes a housing and a filter screen. The housing has a cavity for containing the treatment medium, and the filter screen is disposed in the cavity and covers the opening of the cavity.

13. A water outlet device, characterized in that, Includes the mixing valve as described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

Images