A water purification system, a water and heat purification integrated machine and a control method of the water purification system
By setting non-regeneration and regeneration modes in the water purification system and using warm water backwashing technology to regenerate the carbon filter cartridge, the problem of short carbon filter cartridge life is solved, the life of the carbon filter cartridge is extended and the replacement frequency is reduced, thereby improving user experience and water quality safety.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202411335272.7
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-09-24
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-27
- Estimated Expiration
- 2044-09-24
AI Technical Summary
Carbon filter cartridges in water purification systems have a short lifespan, and frequent replacements cause inconvenience to users.
By setting non-regeneration and regeneration modes in the water purification system, and using control valve components to switch the water flow path and direction, combined with warm water backwashing technology, the carbon filter cartridge can be regenerated, extending its lifespan.
It effectively extends the lifespan of carbon filter cartridges, reduces replacement frequency, simplifies pipeline structure, lowers replacement costs, and ensures water quality safety and user experience.
Smart Images

Figure CN119236530B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of water purification technology, specifically to a water purification system, an integrated water purification and heating machine, and a control method for the water purification system. Background Technology
[0002] A water purifier and heater is a new type of water purification equipment that integrates water purification and heating functions, eliminating the need to draw purified water and then boil it, thus providing pure hot water that is ready to drink immediately.
[0003] Water purification systems in integrated water purifiers and heaters typically include pretreatment filters and reverse osmosis (RO) filters. The RO filter achieves deep water purification through nanochannels in the polyamide separation layer on the surface of the reverse osmosis membrane. However, the polyamide separation layer has poor resistance to oxidizing substances, and its pleated structure is easily damaged. To effectively extend the lifespan of the RO filter, the industry commonly uses pretreatment to ensure the quality of the incoming water. Water quality requirements mainly include turbidity and SDI. 15 Residual chlorine. Both the PP cotton in the pretreatment filter cartridge and ultrafiltration can effectively reduce the turbidity and SDI of the water. 15 While other filters exist, only activated carbon filters can effectively remove residual chlorine. Therefore, activated carbon filters are an essential component of pre-treatment filters in water purifiers. Although optimizing materials, manufacturing methods, and increasing the amount used can improve their water purification performance and lifespan to some extent, the effects are limited. Activated carbon filters always have a saturation point and eventually need to be disassembled and replaced, causing inconvenience. It is evident that activated carbon filters in water purification systems in related technologies have a relatively short lifespan and require frequent replacement, causing inconvenience to users. Summary of the Invention
[0004] In view of this, the present invention provides a water purification system, an integrated water purification and heating machine, and a control method for the water purification system to solve the problem of short lifespan of carbon filter cartridges and the inconvenience caused to users by frequent replacement.
[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a water purification system having a non-regenerative mode and a regenerative mode, the water purification system comprising:
[0006] Connecting pipes;
[0007] The cooking unit includes a heating unit and a heat exchange unit. The heating unit is adapted to heat water to boil to obtain boiling water. The heat exchange unit is connected to the heating unit and is adapted to cool the boiling water to obtain warm water.
[0008] The filtration unit includes a pre-carbon filter element. In the non-regeneration mode, the pre-carbon filter element is located upstream of the curing unit in the direction of water flow. In the regeneration mode, the pre-carbon filter element is located downstream of the curing unit in the direction of water flow, so that the warm water backwashes and regenerates the pre-carbon filter element.
[0009] A control valve assembly is disposed in the connecting pipeline, and the control valve assembly is adapted to control the water purification system to switch between the non-regeneration mode and the regeneration mode.
[0010] Beneficial Effects: This invention controls and adjusts the control valve assembly installed in the connecting pipeline to change the flow path and direction of water in the pipeline, allowing the water purification system to flexibly switch between non-regeneration and regeneration modes. When the carbon filter reaches or approaches saturation, the regeneration mode is activated, and reverse rinsing regenerates the carbon filter. The heat exchange unit in the water purification system cools the boiling water produced by the heating unit to create warm water. This temperature effect disrupts the adsorption balance of the pre-filter carbon, causing adsorption to reverse, i.e., pollutant desorption, achieving a regeneration effect and effectively extending the lifespan and replacement cycle of the carbon filter. Furthermore, compared to regeneration with boiling water, using warm water does not cause material damage to the carbon filter. The warm water is more effective in extending the lifespan of the carbon filter. Moreover, the warm water used for rinsing in this invention is obtained by cooling boiling water through the heat exchange unit, without changing the system's heating temperature, minimizing the impact on the purification system and not affecting user operation.
[0011] In one optional embodiment, the filtration unit further includes a fine filter cartridge; the connecting pipeline includes:
[0012] An external water inlet pipe is connected to the pre-filter carbon cartridge, which is suitable for introducing an external water source into the water purification system;
[0013] A fine filter inlet pipe is connected between the pre-carbon filter element and the fine filter element.
[0014] A pure water pipe, suitable for conveying purified water to the cooking unit;
[0015] A hot water intake pipe is connected between the cooking unit and the boiling water outlet of the water purification system.
[0016] A warm water intake pipe is connected between the cooking unit and the warm water inlet of the water purification system.
[0017] A water storage connection pipe, wherein a water storage unit is connected to the first end of the water storage connection pipe, and a pure water pipe is connected to the second end of the water storage connection pipe;
[0018] A regeneration flushing pipe is connected between the warm water intake pipe and the fine filter inlet pipe;
[0019] A regenerated drain pipe is connected in parallel to the external inlet pipe and is suitable for discharging regenerated water.
[0020] Beneficial effects: In non-regeneration mode, an external water inlet pipe introduces external water into the water purification system. After primary filtration by the pre-filter carbon filter, the water passes through the fine filter inlet pipe into the fine filter cartridge for further filtration. The finely filtered water then enters the heat exchange and heating units via a pure water pipe for cooking, and is subsequently supplied to users via a boiling or warm water outlet. In regeneration mode, water from the storage unit enters the cooking unit via a storage connection pipe. The resulting warm water, after heating and heat exchange, enters the pre-filter carbon filter through a regeneration flushing pipe for backwashing. The temperature disrupts the adsorption balance of the pre-filter carbon filter, causing pollutants to desorb and achieving the regeneration purpose of the pre-filter carbon filter. Furthermore, the regeneration flushing pipe is directly led out from the warm water outlet pipe of the cooking unit, eliminating the need for a separate dedicated water circuit and simplifying the piping structure of the water purification system.
[0021] In one alternative embodiment, the control valve assembly includes:
[0022] The first valve body is installed in the external water inlet pipe;
[0023] The second valve body is installed in the fine filter inlet pipe;
[0024] The third valve body is installed in the pure water pipe;
[0025] The fourth valve body is disposed in the regeneration flushing pipe;
[0026] The fifth valve body is installed in the regeneration drain pipe;
[0027] In the non-regeneration mode, the fourth valve body and the fifth valve body are in the closed state; in the regeneration mode, the first valve body and the second valve body are in the closed state.
[0028] Beneficial effects: By installing the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valve bodies in the connecting pipeline, it is convenient to connect and disconnect any of the following pipelines: external water inlet pipe, fine filter water inlet pipe, pure water pipe, regeneration flushing pipe, and regeneration drain pipe. This changes the water flow path and direction, enabling the water purification system to switch between non-regeneration and regeneration modes. It ensures reliable water production and effective regeneration without changing the structure of the water purification system. The pre-carbon filter cartridge does not need to be replaced, improving convenience and reducing filter replacement costs.
[0029] In one optional embodiment, the filtration unit further includes a first post-carbon filter element disposed in the pure water pipe.
[0030] Beneficial effects: The first post-carbon filter cartridge installed in the pure water pipe can purify the water entering the cooking unit from the water storage unit during the regeneration mode, preventing water that has been stored in the water storage unit for a long time from contaminating the water purification system and ensuring water quality safety.
[0031] In one optional embodiment, the filtration unit further includes a second post-carbon filter element, which is configured in combination with the pre-carbon filter element; a post-carbon filter inlet pipe is provided between the second post-carbon filter element and the fine filter element.
[0032] Beneficial effects: The second post-carbon filter can improve the taste of water after fine filtration and increase user satisfaction; combining the second post-carbon filter with the pre-carbon filter in one housing makes the water purification system more compact; in non-regeneration mode, the water filtered by the fine filter enters the second post-carbon filter through the post-carbon filter inlet pipe, and then enters the pure water pipe after filtration.
[0033] In one optional embodiment, the temperature range of the warm water is 35°C to 60°C.
[0034] Beneficial effects: The temperature range of the warm water used for regenerating carbon filter cartridges is 35℃~60℃. Compared with room temperature water, the increased temperature improves the activity of pollutants. Temperature acts as an external force to drive the desorption of pollutants, thus improving the desorption efficiency. Compared with hot water with a temperature higher than 60℃, it will not cause material damage to the carbon filter cartridge, nor will it affect the life extension of the carbon filter cartridge due to excessively high water temperature, thus avoiding any adverse effects.
[0035] Secondly, the present invention also provides an integrated water purification and heating system, including any of the water purification systems described above.
[0036] Beneficial effects: Since the integrated water purifier and heat pump includes the water purification system of the present invention, it has the same technical effects as the water purification system of the present invention, which will not be described in detail here.
[0037] Thirdly, the present invention also provides a control method for a water purification system, applicable to any of the above-described water purification systems or the integrated water purification and heating machine, the control method comprising the following steps:
[0038] Obtain the cumulative purified water volume Q of the pre-filter cartridge and the preset regeneration point flow rate Q. n For comparison, n represents the number of regenerations;
[0039] Determine if Q = Q n ;
[0040] If Q = Q n Control the water purification system to enter the regeneration state;
[0041] Once the regeneration conditions are met, the control will initiate the regeneration mode.
[0042] Beneficial effect: Preset regeneration point flow rate Q n It is the cumulative purified water volume corresponding to each adsorption saturation state of the pre-filter cartridge, Q = Q n This indicates that the pre-filter has reached adsorption saturation and needs to be regenerated. At this point, the water purification system can be controlled to enter the regeneration standby state to prepare for starting the regeneration mode.
[0043] In one optional implementation, the regeneration mode includes the following control steps:
[0044] Obtain the water level h of the water storage unit and the water temperature T of the heating unit, respectively, and compare them with the preset water level h. 满 and preset water temperature T 沸 Comparison;
[0045] Determine whether h = h simultaneously 满 and T=T 沸 ;
[0046] If h = h 满 and T=T 沸 Control and regulate the control valve assembly, and use warm water to backwash the pre-carbon filter element.
[0047] Beneficial effects: In regeneration mode, it is necessary to first determine whether the regeneration conditions are met. The water storage unit must be full to ensure a continuous supply of flushing water, and the water in the heating unit must be in a boiling and heat-preserving state to provide the required regeneration temperature water. Therefore, the regeneration conditions include the water storage unit being full and the water in the heating unit being in a boiling and heat-preserving state. Regeneration can only be started when both the water storage unit is full and the water is in a boiling and heat-preserving state. Using the water level in the water storage unit as the basis for determining whether the water is full is highly reliable, and directly using the detected water temperature as the basis for determining whether to enter the boiling and heat-preserving state is direct and accurate.
[0048] In one alternative implementation, if h = h is not satisfied simultaneously 满 and T=T 沸 Then, the control valve assembly is activated to replenish water, and / or the heating unit is activated or the heating unit continues heating until h = h is simultaneously satisfied. 满 and T=T 沸 .
[0049] Beneficial effect: When h = h is not satisfied at the same time 满 and T=T 沸 This indicates that the water purification system does not yet meet the regeneration conditions. If the water level is not full, water replenishment needs to be started until the water level is full. If the temperature has not reached the preset boiling temperature, heating should be started or heating should continue until the water in the heating unit reaches the boiling and heat preservation state.
[0050] In one optional embodiment, after the warm water backwash of the pre-carbon filter element, a pre-carbon filter element cooling step is further included:
[0051] Control the shut-off control valve assembly;
[0052] Obtain the water temperature T1 inside the pre-filter and compare it with the preset target temperature T0;
[0053] Determine whether T1 = T0 is satisfied;
[0054] If T1 = T0, the non-regenerative mode is activated.
[0055] Beneficial effects: After the warm water backwash is completed, the pre-filter carbon cartridge is cooled to prevent high-temperature water in the carbon cartridge in non-regeneration mode from entering the downstream components that are not resistant to high temperatures, causing damage to the components and affecting the reliability of the water purification system.
[0056] In one optional implementation, if T1 = T0 is not satisfied, the system controls the initiation of room temperature water replacement or natural cooling until T1 = T0 is satisfied.
[0057] Beneficial effects: If the water in the pre-filter cartridge is not cooled to the target value after the warm water backwash is completed, it can be quickly cooled by starting the room temperature water replacement, or you can wait for a period of time to allow the water in the carbon filter cartridge to cool naturally to the target temperature.
[0058] In one alternative implementation, the fulfillment of regeneration conditions includes:
[0059] Obtain time information t, and idle time t 闲 Or compare during off-peak time periods [t1, t2];
[0060] Determine whether t = t 闲 Or t∈[t1, t2];
[0061] If t = t 闲 Or t∈[t1, t2], controls the start of regeneration mode.
[0062] Beneficial effects: Setting idle time points or idle time periods indicates that the water purification system is not in water production mode. When it is in idle time, it can enter the regeneration mode to regenerate the pre-carbon filter. The pre-carbon filter is only regenerated during idle time, which will not affect the user's normal water production and use, thus improving the user experience. Attached Figure Description
[0063] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments or related technologies of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.
[0064] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a water purification system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0065] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the pipeline connection of the water purification system in non-regeneration mode. Solid lines in the diagram represent pipes that are connected, and dashed lines represent pipes that are not connected.
[0066] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the pipeline connection of the water purification system in regeneration mode. Solid lines in the diagram represent connected pipelines, and dashed lines represent non-connected pipelines.
[0067] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another water purification system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0068] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the pipeline connection of the water purification system in non-regeneration mode. Solid lines in the diagram represent pipes that are connected, and dashed lines represent pipes that are not connected.
[0069] Figure 6 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the pipeline connection of the water purification system in regeneration mode. Solid lines in the diagram represent connected pipelines, and dashed lines represent non-connected pipelines.
[0070] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the first control method of the water purification system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0071] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a second control method for a water purification system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0072] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the third control method of the water purification system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0073] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the fourth control method of the water purification system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0074] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the fifth control method of the water purification system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0075] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:
[0076] 100. Connecting pipes;
[0077] 101. External water inlet pipe; 102. Fine filter water inlet pipe; 103. Pure water pipe; 104. Hot water intake pipe; 105. Warm water intake pipe; 106. Water storage connection pipe; 107. Regeneration flushing pipe; 108. Regeneration drain pipe; 109. Post-carbon filter water inlet pipe;
[0078] 1. Cooking unit;
[0079] 11. Heating unit; 12. Heat exchange unit;
[0080] 2. Filter unit;
[0081] 21. Pre-filter; 22. Fine filter; 23. First post-filter; 24. Carbon composite filter;
[0082] 3. Control valve assembly;
[0083] 31. First valve body; 32. Second valve body; 33. Third valve body; 34. Fourth valve body; 35. Fifth valve body;
[0084] 4. Check valve;
[0085] 5. Pumping device;
[0086] 6. Temperature control valve;
[0087] 7. Water storage unit. Detailed Implementation
[0088] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, 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 only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0089] In the description of the invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more; the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," "front end," "rear end," "head," "tail," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.
[0090] In the description of this invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.
[0091] The following is combined with Figures 1 to 11 The following describes embodiments of the present invention.
[0092] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in one aspect, such as Figures 1-6 As shown, a water purification system is provided, having a non-regeneration mode and a regeneration mode. The water purification system includes:
[0093] Connecting pipe 100;
[0094] The cooking unit 1 includes a heating unit 11 and a heat exchange unit 12. The heating unit 11 is adapted to heat water to boil to obtain boiling water. The heat exchange unit 12 is connected to the heating unit 11 and is adapted to cool the boiling water to obtain warm water.
[0095] Filtering unit 2 includes a pre-carbon filter element 21. In non-regeneration mode, the pre-carbon filter element 21 is located upstream of the curing unit 1 in the direction of water flow. In regeneration mode, the pre-carbon filter element 21 is located downstream of the curing unit 1 in the direction of water flow, so that warm water backwashes and regenerates the pre-carbon filter element 21.
[0096] The control valve assembly 3 is disposed in the connecting pipe 100 and is adapted to control the water purification system to switch between non-regeneration mode and regeneration mode.
[0097] This invention controls and adjusts the control valve assembly 3 installed in the connecting pipe 100 to change the flow path and direction of water in the connecting pipe 100, allowing the water purification system to flexibly switch between non-regeneration and regeneration modes. When the carbon filter reaches or approaches saturation, the regeneration mode is activated, and reverse flushing regenerates the carbon filter. The heat exchange unit 12 in the water purification system cools the boiling water produced by the heating unit 11 to form warm water. This temperature effect breaks the adsorption balance of the pre-filter carbon element 21, causing adsorption to reverse, i.e., pollutant desorption, achieving a regeneration effect and effectively extending the lifespan and replacement cycle of the carbon filter. Furthermore, compared to boiling water regeneration, using warm water does not cause material damage to the carbon filter. Using warm water is more effective in extending the lifespan of the carbon filter. Moreover, the warm water used for flushing in this invention is obtained by cooling boiling water through the heat exchange unit 12, without changing the system's heating temperature, minimizing the impact on the purification system and not affecting user operation.
[0098] It should be noted that non-renewable modes include water production modes.
[0099] In some embodiments, the filtration unit 2 further includes a fine filter element 22; the connecting pipe 100 includes:
[0100] An external water inlet pipe 101 is connected to the pre-filter carbon cartridge 21, which is suitable for introducing an external water source into the water purification system.
[0101] The fine filter inlet pipe 102 is connected between the pre-carbon filter element 21 and the fine filter element 22;
[0102] Pure water pipe 103 is suitable for transporting purified pure water to cooking unit 1;
[0103] A hot water intake pipe 104 is connected between the cooking unit 1 and the boiling water outlet of the water purification system.
[0104] A warm water intake pipe 105 is connected between the cooking unit 1 and the warm water inlet of the water purification system.
[0105] A water storage connection pipe 106 is provided with a water storage unit 7 at its first end and a pure water pipe 103 at its second end.
[0106] The regeneration flushing pipe 107 is connected between the warm water intake pipe 105 and the fine filter inlet pipe 102.
[0107] The regenerated drain pipe 108 is connected in parallel to the external water inlet pipe 101 and is suitable for discharging regenerated water.
[0108] like Figure 2 and Figure 5As shown, in non-regeneration mode, the external water inlet pipe 101 introduces external water into the water purification system. After primary filtration by the pre-filter carbon filter 21, the water enters the fine filter filter 22 through the fine filter inlet pipe 102 for fine filtration. The finely filtered water then enters the heat exchange unit 12 and the heating unit 11 through the pure water pipe 103 for cooking. After cooking, the water is connected to the boiling water outlet or warm water outlet through the boiling water outlet 104 or warm water outlet 105 to supply water to the user. Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, in regeneration mode, water in storage unit 7 enters the cooking unit 1 via storage connection pipe 106. After heating and heat exchange, the resulting warm water enters the pre-filter cartridge 21 via regeneration flushing pipe 107 for backwashing. The temperature effect disrupts the adsorption balance of the pre-filter cartridge 21, causing pollutants to desorb and achieving the regeneration purpose of the pre-filter cartridge 21. Furthermore, the regeneration flushing pipe 107 is directly led out from the warm water intake pipe 105 of the cooking unit, eliminating the need for a separate dedicated water path and simplifying the piping structure of the water purification system.
[0109] Specifically, the external water inlet pipe 101 can be directly connected to tap water or to a water storage device.
[0110] In some embodiments, the control valve assembly 3 includes:
[0111] The first valve body 31 is installed in the external water inlet pipe 101;
[0112] The second valve body 32 is installed in the fine filter inlet pipe 102;
[0113] The third valve body 33 is installed in the pure water pipe 103;
[0114] The fourth valve body 34 is installed in the regeneration flushing pipe 107;
[0115] The fifth valve body 35 is installed in the regeneration drain pipe 108;
[0116] In non-regeneration mode, the fourth valve body 34 and the fifth valve body 35 are closed; in regeneration mode, the first valve body 31 and the second valve body 32 are closed.
[0117] By using the first valve body 31, the second valve body 32, the third valve body 33, the fourth valve body 34, and the fifth valve body 35 installed in the connecting pipe 100, it is convenient to connect and disconnect any of the following pipes: external water inlet pipe 101, fine filter water inlet pipe 102, pure water pipe 103, regeneration flushing pipe 107, and regeneration drain pipe 108. This changes the water flow path and direction, enabling the water purification system to switch between non-regeneration and regeneration modes. Without changing the structure of the water purification system, reliable water production is guaranteed while effective regeneration is achieved. The pre-carbon filter 21 does not need to be replaced, improving convenience and reducing filter replacement costs.
[0118] It should be noted that a check valve 4 is also installed in the regeneration flushing pipe 107 to prevent water backflow. A temperature regulating valve 6 is also installed at the heat exchange unit 12 to regulate the outlet temperature of the warm water.
[0119] Specifically, the first valve body 31, the second valve body 32, the third valve body 33, the fourth valve body 34, and the fifth valve body 35 are all solenoid valves, which facilitate automatic control.
[0120] In some embodiments, the filtration unit 2 further includes a first post-carbon filter element 23, which is disposed in the pure water pipe 103.
[0121] The first post-carbon filter element 23 installed in the pure water pipe 103 can purify the water entering the cooking unit 1 from the water storage unit 7 during the regeneration mode, preventing water that has been stored in the water storage unit 7 for a long time from contaminating the water purification system and ensuring water quality safety.
[0122] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4-6 As shown, the filter unit 2 also includes a second post-carbon filter element, which is combined with the pre-carbon filter element 21; a post-carbon filter inlet pipe 109 is provided between the second post-carbon filter element and the fine filter element 22. Alternatively, the PP cotton filter element, the pre-carbon filter element 21, and the second post-carbon filter element can be combined into one unit to form a carbon composite filter element 24. Backwashing the carbon composite filter element 24 effectively regenerates the pre-carbon filter element 21 and also cleans the PP cotton filter element within the carbon composite filter element 24.
[0123] The second post-carbon filter can improve the taste of the finely filtered water and increase user satisfaction. The second post-carbon filter and the pre-carbon filter 21 are combined into one housing, making the water purification system structure more compact. In non-regeneration mode, the water filtered by the fine filter 22 enters the second post-carbon filter through the post-carbon filter inlet pipe 109, and then enters the pure water pipe 103 after filtration.
[0124] Specifically, the fine filter cartridge 22 includes an RO membrane filter cartridge. The pre-carbon filter cartridge 21 is used to remove organic matter, some heavy metals, residual chlorine, discoloration, and odor from the raw water; the RO membrane filter cartridge can filter out all impurity molecules except water molecules; and the post-carbon filter cartridge can adjust the taste of the water.
[0125] In some embodiments, the temperature range of the warm water is 35°C to 60°C.
[0126] The temperature range of the warm water used for regenerating carbon filter cartridges is 35℃~60℃. Compared with room temperature water, the increased temperature increases the activity of pollutants. Temperature acts as an external force to drive the desorption of pollutants, thus improving the desorption efficiency. Compared with hot water with a temperature higher than 60℃, it will not cause material damage to the carbon filter cartridge, nor will it affect the life extension of the carbon filter cartridge due to excessively high water temperature, thus avoiding any adverse effect.
[0127] Secondly, the present invention also provides an integrated water purification and heating machine, including a water purification system.
[0128] Since the integrated water purifier and heat pump includes the water purification system of this invention, it has the same technical effects as the water purification system of this invention, which will not be described in detail here.
[0129] Thirdly, the present invention also provides a control method for a water purification system, applicable to water purification systems or integrated water purification and heating systems, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the control method includes the following steps:
[0130] Obtain the cumulative purified water volume Q of the pre-filter cartridge 21 and the preset regeneration point flow rate Q. n For comparison, n represents the number of regenerations;
[0131] Determine if Q = Q n ;
[0132] If Q = Q n Control the water purification system to enter the regeneration state;
[0133] Once the regeneration conditions are met, the control will initiate the regeneration mode.
[0134] Preset regeneration point flow rate Q n This is the cumulative purified water volume corresponding to each adsorption saturation state reached by the pre-carbon filter element 21, Q = Q n This indicates that the pre-carbon filter cartridge 21 has reached adsorption saturation and needs to be regenerated. At this point, the water purification system can be controlled to enter the regeneration state, preparing for the start of the regeneration mode.
[0135] In some embodiments, such as Figure 8 As shown, the regeneration mode includes the following control steps:
[0136] The water level h of the water storage unit 7 and the water temperature T of the heating unit 11 are obtained and compared with the preset water level h. 满 and preset water temperature T 沸 Comparison;
[0137] Determine whether h = h simultaneously 满 and T=T 沸 ;
[0138] If h = h 满 and T=T沸 Control and regulating valve assembly 3, warm water backwashing of pre-carbon filter element 21.
[0139] In regeneration mode, it is necessary to first determine whether the regeneration conditions are met. Only when the water storage unit 7 is full can the continuous supply of flushing water be guaranteed, and only when the water in the heating unit 11 is in a boiling and heat-preserving state can the required regeneration temperature water be provided. Therefore, the regeneration conditions include the water storage unit 7 being full and the water in the heating unit 11 being in a boiling and heat-preserving state. Regeneration can only be started when both the water level in the storage unit 7 and the boiling and heat-preserving state are met simultaneously. Using the water level in the storage unit 7 as the basis for determining whether the water is full or not is highly reliable. Using the detected water temperature as the basis for determining whether to enter the boiling and heat-preserving state is direct and accurate.
[0140] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 As shown, the regeneration mode includes the following control steps:
[0141] The water level h of the water storage unit 7 and the water temperature T of the heating unit 11 are obtained and compared with the preset water level h. 满 and preset water temperature T 沸 Comparison;
[0142] Determine whether h = h simultaneously 满 and T=T 沸 ;
[0143] If so, control and regulate the control valve assembly 3, and use warm water to backwash the pre-carbon filter element 21;
[0144] If not, then control the regulating valve assembly 3 to start water replenishment, and / or control the start of heating unit 11 or control heating unit 11 to continue heating until h = h is simultaneously satisfied. 满 and T=T 沸 .
[0145] When h = h does not satisfy at the same time 满 and T=T 沸 This indicates that the water purification system does not yet meet the regeneration conditions. If the water is not full, water replenishment needs to be started until the water is full. If the temperature has not reached the preset boiling temperature, heating should be started or heating should continue until the water in the heating unit 11 reaches the boiling and heat preservation state.
[0146] In some embodiments, such as Figure 10 As shown, the control method includes the following steps:
[0147] Obtain the cumulative purified water volume Q of the pre-filter cartridge 21 and the preset regeneration point flow rate Q. n For comparison, n represents the number of regenerations;
[0148] Determine if Q = Q n ;
[0149] If Q = Q n Control the water purification system to enter the regeneration state;
[0150] Once the regeneration conditions are met, the control will initiate the regeneration mode:
[0151] The water level h of the water storage unit 7 and the water temperature T of the heating unit 11 are obtained and compared with the preset water level h. 满 and preset water temperature T 沸 Comparison;
[0152] Determine whether h = h simultaneously 满 and T=T 沸 ;
[0153] If h = h 满 and T=T 沸 Control and regulating valve assembly 3, warm water backwashing of pre-carbon filter element 21;
[0154] Control valve assembly 3 to close;
[0155] Get the water temperature T1 inside the pre-filter 21 and compare it with the preset target temperature T0;
[0156] Determine whether T1 = T0 is satisfied;
[0157] If T1 = T0, control the start of non-regenerative mode;
[0158] If T1 = T0 is not satisfied, start the system to replace with room temperature water or allow natural cooling until T1 = T0 is satisfied.
[0159] After the warm water backwash is completed, the pre-filter carbon cartridge 21 is cooled to prevent high-temperature water from entering the downstream components that are not resistant to high temperatures in non-regeneration mode, which could damage the components and affect the reliability of the water purification system. If the water in the pre-filter carbon cartridge 21 has not cooled to the target temperature after the warm water backwash is completed, it can be quickly cooled by starting the room temperature water replacement, or you can wait for a period of time to allow the water in the carbon cartridge to cool naturally to the target temperature.
[0160] In some embodiments, such as Figure 11 As shown, the control method includes the following steps:
[0161] Obtain the cumulative purified water volume Q of the pre-filter cartridge 21 and the preset regeneration point flow rate Q. n For comparison, n represents the number of regenerations;
[0162] Determine if Q = Q n ;
[0163] If Q = Q n It enters a state of waiting to be regenerated;
[0164] Obtain time information t, and idle time t 闲 Or compare during off-peak time periods [t1, t2];
[0165] Determine whether t = t 闲 Or t∈[t1, t2];
[0166] If t = t 闲 Or t∈[t1, t2], controls the start of regeneration mode:
[0167] The water level h of the water storage unit 7 and the water temperature T of the heating unit 11 are obtained and compared with the preset water level h. 满 and preset water temperature T 沸 Comparison;
[0168] Determine whether h = h simultaneously 满 and T=T 沸 ;
[0169] If h = h 满 and T=T 沸 Control and regulating valve assembly 3, warm water backwashing of pre-carbon filter element 21;
[0170] Control valve assembly 3 to close;
[0171] Get the water temperature T1 inside the pre-filter 21 and compare it with the preset target temperature T0;
[0172] Determine whether T1 = T0 is satisfied;
[0173] If T1 = T0, control the start of non-regenerative mode;
[0174] If T1 = T0 is not satisfied, start the system to replace with room temperature water or allow natural cooling until T1 = T0 is satisfied.
[0175] Setting idle time points or idle time periods indicates that the water purification system is not in water production mode. When it is in idle time, it can enter the regeneration mode to regenerate the pre-carbon filter 21. The pre-carbon filter 21 is only regenerated during idle time, which will not affect the user's normal water production and use, thus improving the user experience.
[0176] In some embodiments, if h = h cannot be satisfied simultaneously during the idle time 满 and T=T 沸 If so, the judgment will be re-evaluated in the next idle time period.
[0177] In one embodiment, the water purification system of the integrated water purifier and heater uses a warm water backwashing method for regeneration. Warm water is used as the medium, and the pre-filter 21 is regenerated in situ through reverse flow rinsing. Based on the original water purification system, the warm water regeneration function of the pre-filter 21 is achieved without affecting its original function. The control process is as follows:
[0178] By identifying idle time through user settings, default preset time, or intelligent learning of user habits, the system analyzes water purification volume, idle time, and overall machine status, and automatically initiates regeneration once the regeneration conditions are met.
[0179] The water purification system mainly includes a filtration unit 2, a heat exchange unit 12, a heating unit 11, a water storage unit 7, and a control valve assembly 3. The filtration unit 2 mainly includes a pretreatment filter cartridge, an RO membrane filter cartridge, a post-treatment filter cartridge, and related pumping devices 5. The pretreatment filter cartridge includes a nitrogen pre-carbon filter cartridge 21 or a composite pre-carbon filter cartridge, and the pre-carbon filter cartridge 21 is the target for warm water regeneration.
[0180] The water storage unit 7 is generally a pressure tank or a water storage device with a self-priming pump. The key feature of this unit is that it has a water output driving force, including the pressure tank with its own pressure or a water pump.
[0181] Heating unit 11 is generally a hot water tank, a water storage device with a built-in heating element, etc., which can heat the water in it to boiling.
[0182] The heat exchange unit 12 generally includes a heat exchanger, and the heating unit 11 is connected to two water inlets, a boiling water inlet and a warm water inlet, which can take boiling water or warm water cooled by the heat exchanger.
[0183] The specific regeneration process of the pre-filter cartridge 21 is as follows:
[0184] (1) Preparation stage: Before regeneration, the water storage unit 7 needs to be full of water, and the heating unit 11 has heated the water to boiling and kept it warm.
[0185] (2) Warm water regeneration stage: After the conditions of water fullness and heat preservation are met, the first valve body 31 and the second valve body 32 are closed (the first valve body 31 is used to close the external tap water, and the second valve body 32 is used to prevent warm water from entering the back end components that are not resistant to high temperature), the third valve body 33, the fourth valve body 34 and the fifth valve body 35 are opened, and the water in the water storage unit 7 enters the heating unit 11 through the third valve body 33 and the heat exchange unit 12 by its own driving force. The boiling water in the heating unit 11 is cooled by the heat exchange unit 12 to make warm water, and then enters the pre-carbon filter 21 in reverse through the fourth valve body 34 for reverse flushing and regeneration. Finally, the regenerated wastewater is discharged by the fifth valve body 35.
[0186] (3) Filter element cooling stage: After the pre-carbon filter element 21 completes the warm water regeneration, the water temperature inside the filter element is high. In order to protect the downstream components that are not resistant to high temperatures, after the warm water regeneration stage is completed, all valves in the system are closed, and the warm water in the pre-carbon filter element 21 is allowed to cool naturally to meet the downstream temperature resistance limit.
[0187] This water purification system uses warm water as a medium to regenerate the pre-carbon filter cartridge 21, restoring its adsorption capacity. Through reverse flushing, it can clean composite filter cartridge components such as PP cotton to a certain extent, extending the filter cartridge replacement cycle. This water purification system can achieve in-situ, non-disassembly regeneration of the pre-carbon filter cartridge 21, controlled only by valve components, without manual intervention.
[0188] An embodiment of the present invention provides a control method for intelligent identification and automatic regeneration of the pre-filter cartridge 21, comprising:
[0189] Step 1, Setting Idle Time: Since the water purification system cannot start producing water when the pre-carbon filter 21 is undergoing in-situ thermal regeneration, in order to optimize the user experience, users can set idle time or have the intelligent system automatically collect and learn idle time. The idle time can be set to the time period t1 to t2 (e.g., 24:00 to 5:00).
[0190] Step 2: Calculate the cumulative purified water volume Q of the pre-filter cartridge 21: The purified water volume of the pre-filter cartridge 21 is calculated by monitoring the operating time of the pumping device 5 or using a flow meter, etc., to identify whether the preset regeneration point has been reached. When it reaches the designed regeneration point (Q = Q...), the purified water volume is calculated. n The filter element enters the regeneration state, where n is the number of regenerations. The regeneration number is automatically incremented by 1 after each regeneration, and multiple regenerations are performed within the filter element's lifespan; Q2 = 2 * Q1,
[0191] Q3 = 3 * Q1, ..., Q n = n*Q1; In one embodiment, Q1 ranges from 200L to 3000L;
[0192] Step 3: Preparation stage: After the preset idle time is reached, the whole machine is identified as being in a state of heat preservation and full water. If the conditions are not met, the whole machine is heated and water is added until the conditions are met, then proceed to step 4. If the conditions of the preparation stage are not met and the preset time period has been exceeded, then proceed to the identification of the next idle time.
[0193] Step 4: Regeneration stage: After completing step 3, the pre-carbon filter element 21 starts warm water regeneration and filter element cooling. After completion, the cumulative purified water volume of the pre-carbon filter element 21 is calculated (i.e., step 2).
[0194] Step 4 includes more specific sub-steps:
[0195] Sub-step 1, warm water regeneration: Use hot water to rinse and regenerate the pre-carbon filter element 21 to restore its adsorption performance and extend its lifespan;
[0196] Sub-step 2, filter element cooling: Cool the filter element by natural cooling or room temperature water replacement to prevent the high-temperature water in the pre-carbon filter element 21 from flowing into the downstream components that are not resistant to high temperatures during normal water production.
[0197] This invention identifies idle time by user settings, default preset time, or intelligent learning of user habits, and automatically initiates regeneration when conditions such as cumulative purified water volume, idle time, and overall machine status are met, thereby improving the user experience.
[0198] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A water purification system, characterized in that, The water purification system includes a non-regenerative mode and a regenerative mode. Connecting pipe (100); The cooking unit (1) includes a heating unit (11) and a heat exchange unit (12). The heating unit (11) is adapted to heat water to boil water to obtain boiling water. The heat exchange unit (12) is connected to the heating unit (11) and is adapted to cool the boiling water to obtain warm water. The filtration unit (2) includes a pre-carbon filter element (21). In the non-regeneration mode, the pre-carbon filter element (21) is located upstream of the curing unit (1) in the direction of water flow. In the regeneration mode, the pre-carbon filter element (21) is located downstream of the curing unit (1) in the direction of water flow, so that the warm water backwashes and regenerates the pre-carbon filter element (21). A control valve assembly (3) is disposed in the connecting pipe (100), and the control valve assembly (3) is adapted to control the water purification system to switch between the non-regeneration mode and the regeneration mode; The filtration unit (2) further includes a fine filter element (22); the connecting pipe (100) includes: An external water inlet pipe (101) is connected to the pre-carbon filter element (21) and is suitable for introducing an external water source into the water purification system. A fine filter inlet pipe (102) is connected between the pre-carbon filter element (21) and the fine filter element (22); Pure water pipe (103) is suitable for conveying purified pure water to the cooking unit (1). A hot water intake pipe (104) is connected between the cooking unit (1) and the boiling water outlet of the water purification system; A warm water intake pipe (105) is connected between the cooking unit (1) and the warm water inlet of the water purification system; A water storage connection pipe (106) is provided with a water storage unit (7) at its first end and a pure water pipe (103) at its second end. A regeneration flushing pipe (107) is connected between the warm water intake pipe (105) and the fine filter inlet pipe (102); A regenerated drain pipe (108) is connected in parallel to the external inlet pipe (101) and is suitable for discharging regenerated water; In non-regeneration mode, the external water inlet pipe (101) introduces external water into the water purification system. After primary filtration by the pre-carbon filter element (21), the water enters the fine filter element (22) through the fine filter inlet pipe (102) for fine filtration. The finely filtered water enters the heat exchange unit (12) and the heating unit (11) through the pure water pipe (103) for cooking. After cooking, the water is connected to the boiling water outlet or the warm water outlet through the boiling water outlet (104) or the warm water outlet (105) to supply water to the user.
2. The water purification system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control valve assembly (3) includes: The first valve body (31) is disposed in the external water inlet pipe (101); The second valve body (32) is disposed in the fine filter inlet pipe (102); The third valve body (33) is disposed in the pure water pipe (103); The fourth valve body (34) is disposed in the regeneration flushing pipe (107); The fifth valve body (35) is disposed in the regeneration drain pipe (108); In the non-regeneration mode, the fourth valve body (34) and the fifth valve body (35) are in the closed state; in the regeneration mode, the first valve body (31) and the second valve body (32) are in the closed state.
3. The water purification system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The filtration unit (2) further includes a first post-carbon filter element (23), which is disposed in the pure water pipe (103).
4. The water purification system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The filtration unit (2) also includes a second post-carbon filter element, which is configured in combination with the pre-carbon filter element (21); a post-carbon filter inlet pipe (109) is provided between the second post-carbon filter element and the fine filter element (22).
5. The water purification system according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The temperature range of the warm water is 35℃~60℃.
6. A combined air purifier and heat dissipation unit, characterized in that, The water purification system includes any one of claims 1-5.
7. A control method for a water purification system, characterized in that, The control method, applicable to any one of the water purification systems of claims 1-5 or the integrated water purifier and heat pump of claim 6, comprises the following steps: Obtain the cumulative purified water volume Q of the pre-filter cartridge and the preset regeneration point flow rate Q. n For comparison, n represents the number of regenerations; Determine if Q=Q n ; If Q=Q n Control the water purification system to enter the regeneration state; Once the regeneration conditions are met, the control will initiate the regeneration mode.
8. The control method for the water purification system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The regeneration mode includes the following control steps: Obtain the water level h of the water storage unit and the water temperature T of the heating unit, respectively, and compare them with the preset water level h. 满 and preset water temperature T 沸 Comparison; Determine whether h=h simultaneously 满 and T = T 沸 ; If h=h 满 and T = T 沸 Control and regulate the control valve assembly, and use warm water to backwash the pre-carbon filter element.
9. The control method for the water purification system according to claim 8, characterized in that, If h=h are not satisfied simultaneously 满 and T = T 沸 Then, the control valve assembly is activated to replenish water, and / or the heating unit is activated or the heating unit continues heating until h=h is simultaneously satisfied. 满 and T = T 沸 .
10. The control method for the water purification system according to any one of claims 7-9, characterized in that, After the pre-carbon filter element is backwashed with warm water, a pre-carbon filter element cooling step is also included: Control the shut-off control valve assembly; Obtain the water temperature T1 inside the pre-filter and compare it with the preset target temperature T0; Determine whether T1 = T0; If T1 = T0, control enters non-regeneration mode.
11. The control method for the water purification system according to claim 10, characterized in that, If T1 = T0 is not satisfied, start the system to replace with room temperature water or allow natural cooling until T1 = T0 is satisfied.
12. The control method for the water purification system according to any one of claims 7-9, characterized in that, The complete regeneration conditions include: Obtain time information t, and idle time t 闲 Or compare during off-peak time periods [t1, t2]; Determine if t=t 闲 Or t∈[t1, t2]; If t=t 闲 Or t∈[t1, t2], controls the start of regeneration mode.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Water purification device and water production control method thereof
CN117069339A