Hot water module

Abstract

The invention discloses a hot water module. The hot water module comprises a shell, a water tank and a heat exchanger. A cavity is defined by the shell. The water tank is arranged in the cavity; the heat exchanger is arranged in the cavity and located on the side, close to the bottom plate of the shell in the vertical direction, of the water tank. The water tank and the heat exchanger are integrated in the cavity defined by the shell, the heat exchanger is located on the side, close to the bottom plate of the shell, of the water tank in the vertical direction, the space below the water tank can be fully utilized for arranging the heat exchanger, and the hot water module reasonable in layout and compact in structure is formed. The hot water module can serve as an optional accessory of heating and ventilation equipment and can be installed, transported, moved and the like independent of an outdoor host, and a user can independently select and match the domestic hot water module according to actual requirements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of domestic hot water storage, and in particular to a hot water module. Background Art

[0002] In the energy-saving design of HVAC systems, heat pumps are selected as an efficient heat source system. Heat pumps mainly use a large amount of renewable, low-grade energy contained in nature as heat sources, such as surface water, solar energy, atmosphere, geothermal energy, etc. Through the operation of the compressor, heat energy is absorbed from the heat source, and the temperature is increased before being transmitted to the high-temperature heat source. The heat pump hot water system is a system that uses heat pump technology to produce hot water. It can be used as a part of HVAC equipment to provide users with domestic hot water. Some existing heat pump equipment will have the function of producing domestic hot water. One form is to build both the domestic hot water tank and the heat recovery heat exchanger into the heat pump host, that is, the domestic hot water module is integrated with the heat pump host; or, another form is to set the domestic hot water tank independently outside the heat pump host, but the heat recovery heat exchanger is still arranged in the heat pump host, that is, a part of the domestic hot water module (heat recovery heat exchanger) is integrated with the heat pump host. However, both forms of domestic hot water modules are partially or fully integrated with the heat pump host, and users cannot flexibly select domestic hot water modules separately according to actual needs. Summary of the invention

[0003] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a hot water module in view of at least one defect existing in the related technology mentioned in the above background technology.

[0004] The technical solution adopted by the present invention to solve its technical problem is: to provide a hot water module, which includes an outer shell, a water tank and a heat exchanger; the outer shell encloses a cavity and includes at least a bottom plate; the water tank is arranged in the cavity; the heat exchanger is arranged in the cavity and is located on one side of the water tank close to the bottom plate in the vertical direction.

[0005] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger is annular; the horizontal dimension of the heat exchanger is substantially consistent with the horizontal dimension of the water tank; or, the length of the heat exchanger is 70% to 110% of the length of the water tank; or, the width of the heat exchanger is 60% to 110% of the width of the water tank.

[0006] In some embodiments, the hot water module also includes a water pump unit, and the water pump unit is arranged in the cavity; wherein, the water pump unit is located on one side of the heat exchanger along the horizontal direction, the horizontal direction includes a first horizontal direction, the outer shell also includes two long side panels relatively spaced apart along the first horizontal direction, and the water pump unit is at least partially arranged on one side of the heat exchanger along the first horizontal direction; and / or, the water pump unit is at least partially arranged on one side of the water tank close to the bottom plate in the vertical direction.

[0007] In some embodiments, the hot water module further comprises a support unit disposed on the bottom plate, the water tank abuts against the support unit, the support unit defines a first avoidance space; the heat exchanger is at least partially disposed in the first avoidance space.

[0008] In some embodiments, the support unit includes at least two support seats arranged on the bottom plate, and the support seats are used to support the water tank; the support seats are arranged at intervals, and the intervals between the support seats define the first avoidance space.

[0009] In some embodiments, the hot water module also includes an electrical control box disposed in the cavity; the electrical control box is located on one side of the end of the water tank; or, the water tank includes a first end and a second end opposite to each other, and the first end is provided with a cover body; the electrical control box and the cover body are located on the same side of the water tank.

[0010] In some embodiments, projections of the electric control box and the cover in the vertical direction at least partially overlap.

[0011] In some embodiments, the housing includes a first short side panel and a second short side panel that are arranged opposite to each other, the first short side panel is located on one side of the first end of the water tank, and the electric control box is arranged on the first short side panel.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first short side panel is provided with at least one inspection opening, and the outer shell further includes at least one inspection cover; the inspection cover is arranged on the first short side panel, is detachably connected or rotatably connected to the first short side panel, and can cover the inspection opening; the cover body and the electrical control box can be exposed through at least one of the inspection openings.

[0013] In some embodiments, the number of the inspection cover is one, and the inspection cover completely covers the inspection opening.

[0014] In some embodiments, the hot water module also includes a pipe assembly, the outer circumferential surface of the water tank includes a first semicircular surface and a second semicircular surface connected to each other, the first semicircular surface is closer to the bottom plate than the second semicircular surface; the pipe assembly includes a plurality of pipes connected to the water tank, and the interfaces of the pipes connected to the water tank on the water tank are located on the first semicircular surface.

[0015] The present invention also provides a heat pump hot water system, which comprises an outdoor main unit and any one of the above described hot water modules, wherein the hot water module is independently arranged outside the outdoor main unit and connected to the outdoor main unit through a pipeline.

[0016] The present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: the present invention integrates the water tank and the heat exchanger in the cavity formed by the enclosure, and the heat exchanger is located on the side of the water tank close to the bottom plate in the vertical direction, and the space under the water tank can be fully utilized to arrange the heat exchanger, forming a hot water module with a reasonable layout and compact structure. The hot water module can be used as an optional part of the HVAC equipment, and can be installed, transported, and moved independently of the outdoor host. Users can select a domestic hot water module separately according to actual needs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of the present invention, the present invention will be further described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments, in which:

[0018] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a hot water module in some embodiments of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The hot water module is shown as a three-dimensional structural diagram with part of the housing hidden;

[0020] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A front view structural schematic diagram of the hot water module shown;

[0021] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the hot water module from top view shown;

[0022] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The hot water module is shown as a schematic diagram of the structure after the water tank is hidden;

[0023] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the hot water module after the water tank is hidden in some embodiments of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the hot water module shown in another viewing angle;

[0025] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 The cross-sectional structure diagram of the hot water module along the AA direction is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] In order to have a clearer understanding of the technical features, purposes and effects of the present invention, the specific implementation methods of the present invention are now described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, it should be understood that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installed", "connected", "connected", "fixed", "set" and the like should be understood in a broad sense, for example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral body; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, it can be the internal connection of two elements or the interaction relationship between two elements. When an element is referred to as being "on" or "under" another element, the element can be "directly" or "indirectly" located on the other element, or there may be one or more intermediate elements. The terms "first", "second", etc. are only for the convenience of describing the present technical solution, and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, the features defined as "first", "second", etc. can explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0027] First, in some embodiments, the present invention provides a heat pump hot water system, which includes an outdoor host (not shown) and a hot water module, wherein the hot water module is independently arranged outside the outdoor host, and the hot water module and the outdoor host are connected by a pipeline.

[0028] See also Figures 1 to 5 A hot water module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an outer shell 1, a water tank 2, and a heat exchanger 3. The outer shell 1 is enclosed to form a cavity. The water tank 2 and the heat exchanger 3 are both arranged in the cavity. The heat exchanger 3 and the outdoor host are connected by a pipeline. The water tank 2 and the heat exchanger 3 are connected by a pipeline. The water tank 2 is fluidically connected to a cold water source (such as a tap or other running water end) through an external pipeline to access cold water. The principle of preparing hot water by the hot water module is roughly as follows: the external high-temperature refrigerant provided by the outdoor host enters the heat exchanger 3, the cold water in the water tank 2 enters the heat exchanger 3, and the cold water is heated by heat exchange with the high-temperature refrigerant in the heat exchanger 3. The heated hot water returns to the water tank 2, and the refrigerant returns to the outdoor host after heat release. Please continue to refer to Figures 1 to 5, the arrows in the figure indicate the mutually perpendicular directions A, B and C. The directions A and B together constitute a horizontal direction, and the horizontal direction described herein includes a first horizontal direction and a second horizontal direction, the first horizontal direction can refer to the direction A, and the second horizontal direction can refer to the direction B; the vertical direction described herein can refer to the direction C.

[0029] See also Figures 1 to 7 In some embodiments, the housing 1 includes a side panel and a bottom panel 13 connected to each other, and a top cover panel 14 arranged parallel to and spaced from the bottom panel 13. The side panel includes two long side panels 12 arranged spaced from each other along a first horizontal direction and two short side panels arranged spaced from each other along a second horizontal direction. When the hot water module is placed naturally on the ground, the bottom panel 13 is in contact with the ground, the bottom panel 13 and the top cover panel 14 are parallel to the ground, the long side panel 12 and the short side panel are perpendicular to the ground, and the long side panel 12 and the short side panel are perpendicular to each other. The maximum side length of the long side panel 12 is greater than the maximum side length of the short side panel. The top cover panel 14, the bottom panel 13, the long side panel 12 and the short side panel are connected to enclose a rectangular cavity. At least two of any adjacent ones of the top cover panel 14, the bottom panel 13, the long side panel 12 and the short side panel can be independent and detachable components, or can be an integral structure that cannot be detached. For example, as shown in the figure, in some embodiments, the bottom plate 13 and one of the short side panels are an integrated structure. The two ends of the water tank 2 along its length direction are respectively facing the two short side panels.

[0030] The heat exchanger 3 is located on one side of the water tank 2 close to the bottom plate 13 in the vertical direction. That is, the heat exchanger 3 is arranged on one side of the water tank 2 in the vertical direction, and the heat exchanger 3 is closer to the bottom plate 13 relative to the water tank 2. In other words, the heat exchanger 3 is located below the water tank 2. The projections of the heat exchanger 3 and the water tank 2 in the vertical direction at least partially overlap. It should be noted that when the hot water module is put into operation, the whole can be placed on the ground; or, the hot water module can also be placed on the top surface of the outdoor main unit, that is, the hot water module and the outdoor main unit are stacked up and down. Therefore, when the hot water module is put into operation, the placement surface of the hot water module can refer to the ground or other surfaces for placing the hot water module. The water pump unit 4 is located on one side of the heat exchanger 3 in the horizontal direction.

[0031] In summary, the present invention integrates the water tank 2 and the heat exchanger 3 in the cavity enclosed by the shell 1, and the heat exchanger 3 is located on the side of the water tank 2 close to the bottom plate 13 in the vertical direction, and the space below the water tank 2 can be fully utilized to arrange the heat exchanger 3, forming a hot water module with a reasonable layout and compact structure. The hot water module can be used as an optional part of the HVAC equipment, and can be installed, transported, and moved independently of the outdoor host. Users can select a domestic hot water module separately according to actual needs.

[0032] In addition, the heat exchanger 3 is located on one side of the water tank 2 close to the bottom plate 13 in the vertical direction, which is conducive to reducing the horizontal size of the housing 1. After the horizontal size of the housing 1 is reduced, it can be adapted to the external size of the outdoor host, that is, the external sizes of the hot water module and the outdoor host can be consistent, thereby ensuring that the hot water module and the outdoor host have good alignment when they are stacked up and down.

[0033] See also Figures 2 to 5 In some embodiments, the hot water module further comprises a water pump unit 4 disposed in the cavity. The water pump unit 4 is respectively connected to the water tank 2 and the heat exchanger 3 through pipelines. The water pump unit 4 is at least used to provide power for the circulation of water between the water tank 2 and the heat exchanger 3. The water pump unit 4 is located on one side of the heat exchanger 3 in the horizontal direction.

[0034] See also Figures 2 to 5 In some embodiments, the water pump unit 4 is at least partially arranged on one side of the water tank 2 close to the bottom plate 13 in the vertical direction. That is, the water pump unit 4 is at least partially arranged on one side of the water tank 2 in the vertical direction, and the water pump unit 4 is closer to the bottom plate 13 relative to the water tank 2. In other words, the water pump unit 4 is at least partially located below the water tank 2. The projections of the water pump unit 4 and the water tank 2 in the vertical direction at least partially overlap. As a result, the water pump unit 4 and the heat exchanger 3 are both arranged below the water tank 2, and the space below the water tank 2 can be fully utilized to arrange the water pump unit 4 and the heat exchanger 3, which is further conducive to reducing the horizontal size of the housing 1, thereby ensuring that the hot water module and the outdoor host have a good alignment when they are stacked up and down. In addition, since the bottom of the water tank 2 has a support unit 5 and a heat exchanger 3, arranging the water pump unit 4 at a position closer to the bottom plate 13 can make full use of the bottom space of the water tank 2, which is conducive to reducing the size of the housing 1 in the vertical direction.

[0035] See also Figures 2 to 5 ,as well as Figure 8 In some embodiments, the water pump unit 4 is at least partially disposed on one side of the heat exchanger 3 along the first horizontal direction (ie, direction A). In other words, the projections of the water pump unit 4 and the heat exchanger 3 in the first horizontal direction at least partially overlap.

[0036] See also Figures 2 to 7 , the heat exchanger 3 is annular. Specifically, the heat exchanger 3 is a flat ring structure, that is, the height of the heat exchanger 3 along the vertical direction is much smaller than the size of the heat exchanger 3 along the first horizontal direction or along the second horizontal direction. The heat exchanger 3 is arranged below the water tank 2. Specifically, the heat exchanger 3 can be a shell and tube heat exchanger. The shell and tube heat exchanger is a concentric circular tube structure, which is usually composed of two concentric tubes, and an annular space is formed between the inner tube and the outer tube for heat exchange.

[0037] See also Figures 2 to 5 , further, in some embodiments, the size of the heat exchanger 3 along the horizontal direction and the size of the water tank 2 along the horizontal direction may be substantially the same. In other words, the length and / or width of the heat exchanger 3 and the water tank 2 along the horizontal direction are substantially the same. Among them, the length of the heat exchanger 3 along the horizontal direction can refer to the size of the heat exchanger 3 along the B direction; the width of the heat exchanger 3 along the horizontal direction can refer to the size of the heat exchanger 3 along the A direction; the length of the water tank 2 along the horizontal direction can refer to the size of the water tank 2 along the B direction; the width of the water tank 2 along the horizontal direction can refer to the size of the water tank 2 along the A direction. It should be noted that the width of the water tank 2 refers to its maximum width in the horizontal direction, that is, if the water tank 2 is cylindrical, the maximum width refers to the diameter of the cylindrical water tank 2. In other embodiments, the size of the heat exchanger 3 along the horizontal direction and the size of the water tank 2 along the horizontal direction can also be equivalent to the cross-sectional area of ​​the heat exchanger 3 along the horizontal direction and the cross-sectional area of ​​the water tank 2 along the horizontal direction. Alternatively, the size of the heat exchanger 3 in the horizontal direction may be slightly smaller than the size of the water tank 2 in the horizontal direction, that is, the heat exchanger 3 does not protrude relative to the water tank 2 in the horizontal direction as much as possible, but is completely covered by the water tank 2 below the water tank 2 as much as possible. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank 2 completely covers the heat exchanger 3 and the water pump unit 4 in a top view, and the horizontal dimension of the housing 1 is largely determined by the horizontal dimension of the water tank 2. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the size of the heat exchanger 3 along the horizontal direction may be smaller than the size of the water tank 2 along the horizontal direction, thereby reserving an area below the water tank 2 for arranging the water pump unit 4.

[0038] Further, in some embodiments, the length of the heat exchanger 3 may be 70% to 110% of the length of the water tank 2. For example, please refer to Figures 2 to 5 As shown in the orientation mark, the size of the heat exchanger 3 along the B direction can be 70% to 110% of the size of the water tank 2 along the B direction. For example, the length of the heat exchanger 3 can be 70% of the length of the water tank 2, or it can be 80%, 90%, 100% or 110%, etc. This is conducive to reducing the height of the hot water module in the vertical direction.

[0039] Further, in some embodiments, the width of the heat exchanger 3 may be 60% to 110% of the width of the water tank 2. For example, please refer to Figures 2 to 5As shown in the orientation mark, the size of the heat exchanger 3 along the A direction can be 60% to 110% of the size of the water tank 2 along the A direction. For example, the width of the heat exchanger 3 can be 60% of the width of the water tank 2, or it can be 70%, 80%, 90%, 100% or 110%. This is conducive to reducing the height of the hot water module along the vertical direction. In some embodiments, the hot water module also includes a pipeline assembly, and the pipeline assembly includes a plurality of pipelines connected to the water tank 2. Please refer to Figure 8 In some embodiments, the outer circumference of the water tank 2 includes a first semicircular surface 24 and a second semicircular surface 25 connected to each other, and the first semicircular surface 24 is closer to the bottom plate 13 than the second semicircular surface 25; the interface of the pipeline connected to the water tank 2 on the water tank 2 is located on the first semicircular surface 24. In other words, the interface of the pipeline connected to the water tank 2 on the water tank 2 is located on the side of the water tank 2 facing the bottom plate 13. As a result, the pipelines connected to the water tank 2 can be centrally arranged below the water tank 2, making full use of the space below the water tank 2, avoiding the pipelines from winding, and helping to reduce the size of the housing 1 in the horizontal direction.

[0040] See also Figures 2 to 7 In some embodiments, the hot water module further includes a support unit 5 disposed on the bottom plate 13, the support unit 5 is used to support the water tank 2, and the support unit 5 defines a first avoidance space. The heat exchanger 3 is at least partially disposed in the first avoidance space. That is, the heat exchanger 3 may be partially or completely disposed in the first avoidance space. The water pump unit 4 is at least partially located in the first avoidance space. That is, the water pump unit 4 may be partially or completely disposed in the first avoidance space. Thus, the water tank 2 can be fixed on the bottom plate 13 by the support unit 5, and the support unit 5 used to support and fix the water tank 2 can also provide a first avoidance space for the heat exchanger 3 and the water pump unit 4, which can fully utilize the space below the water tank 2 to place the heat exchanger 3 and the water pump unit 4 without hindering the support and fixation of the water tank 2. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, only the heat exchanger 3 may be at least partially disposed in the first avoidance space; or, only the water pump unit 4 may be at least partially disposed in the first avoidance space.

[0041] For further information, please refer to Figures 2 to 5 In some embodiments, the support unit 5 includes four support seats 50 and two support frames 53. Each support seat 50 is arranged on the bottom plate 13. One of the support frames 53 is mounted on two of the support seats 50 adjacent to each other along the A direction, and is respectively connected to the two support seats 50; another support frame 53 is mounted on the other two support seats 50 adjacent to each other along the A direction, and is respectively connected to the other two support seats 50. The support frame 53 is located on a side of the heat exchanger 3 away from the bottom plate 13 in the vertical direction, that is, the support frame 53 is located above the heat exchanger 3. The support seat 50 and the support frame 53 jointly support the water tank 2. For example Figures 2 to 5,as well as Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank 2 rests against each support frame 53, and the support frame 53 is provided with an arc-shaped surface that fits the outer peripheral shape of the water tank 2, and the support frame 53 contacts the water tank 2 with its arc-shaped surface. In this case, the support seat 50 is not in direct contact with the water tank 2, and the support seat 50 only provides support force for the support frame 53 and the water tank 2. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the support seat 50 used to support the water tank 2 may be in direct contact with the water tank 2. Specifically, an arc-shaped surface that fits the outer peripheral shape of the water tank 2 may be designed on the support seat 50, so that the support seat 50 contacts the water tank 2 with its arc-shaped surface. The support seats 50 are arranged at intervals, and the intervals between the support seats 50 define a first avoidance space. Specifically, the first avoidance space includes the interval between two support seats 50 adjacent to each other along the A direction, and the interval between two support seats 50 adjacent to each other along the B direction. As shown in FIG. Figures 2 to 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the heat exchanger 3 is at least partially inserted into the gap between two support seats 50 adjacent to each other along the A direction, and the water pump unit 4 is at least partially located in the gap between two support seats 50 adjacent to each other along the B direction. Each support seat 50 can be fixed to the base plate 13 by bolts. The four support seats 50 are arranged diagonally. In some other embodiments, the number of support seats 50 can be two, three, five, etc. That is, the number of support seats 50 is at least two. The number of support frames 53 can be one, three, four, etc. That is, the number of support frames 53 is at least one. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the support unit 5 can also be an indivisible whole, and the support unit 5 is provided with through grooves, through holes, etc. to define the first avoidance space.

[0042] See also Figure 5 In some embodiments, the hot water module further includes at least one first fastener 51 , which is connected between the base plate 13 and the heat exchanger 3 and is used to fix the heat exchanger 3 on the base plate 13 .

[0043] See also Figures 2 to 7 In some embodiments, the water pump unit 4 includes a first water pump 41 and a second water pump 42. Of course, in other embodiments, the water pump unit 4 may also include one or more water pumps. In some embodiments, the first water pump 41 may be a circulating water pump, and the second water pump 42 may be a zero-cooling water pump. When the water pump unit 4 includes only one water pump, the water pump is a circulating water pump, which is used to provide power for the circulation of water between the water tank 2 and the heat exchanger 3.

[0044] See also Figure 2 and Figure 6In some embodiments, the hot water module further includes at least one second fastener 52, which is connected between the water pump unit 4 and the bottom plate 13, and is used to fix the heat exchanger 3 on the bottom plate 13. Specifically, the hot water module further includes two second fasteners 52, one of which is connected between the first water pump 41 and the bottom plate 13, and is used to fix the first water pump 41 on the bottom plate 13; the other second fastener 52 is connected between the second water pump 42 and the bottom plate 13, and is used to fix the second water pump 42 on the bottom plate 13.

[0045] See also Figures 2 to 4 In some embodiments, the water tank 2 is placed horizontally in the cavity. That is, the water tank 2 is arranged horizontally in the cavity. Specifically, the water tank 2 is roughly cylindrical, and the length direction of the water tank 2 is parallel to the placement surface where the hot water module is located; in other words, the length direction of the water tank 2 is parallel to the bottom plate 13 and is consistent with the length direction of the bottom plate.

[0046] Please continue reading Figures 2 to 4 In some embodiments, the hot water module further includes an electric control box 7 disposed in the cavity. The electric control box 7 is located at one side of the end of the water tank 2. Specifically, the end of the water tank 2 may be the end of the water tank 2 along the B direction. The water tank 2 includes an opposite first end 21 and a second end 22 along its length direction, and the electric control box 7 may be located at one side of the first end 21 or the second end 22 of the water tank 2.

[0047] Furthermore, a cover 23 is provided at the first end 21 of the water tank 2, and the electric control box 7 and the cover 23 are located on the same side of the water tank 2. Figures 2 to 4 The illustrated orientation of the embodiment shown is used as a reference, the electric control box 7 is located at the side of the first end 21 of the water tank 2 away from the second end 22 thereof, that is, the cover 23 is located at the first end 21 of the water tank 2, and the electric control box 7 is located on the right side of the first end 21 of the water tank 2. The cover 23 can be a cover for closing the water tank 2, or a cover for at least partially covering the electrical components located at the end of the water tank 2.

[0048] Furthermore, the projections of the electric control box 7 and the cover 23 in the vertical direction at least partially overlap. That is, the electric control box 7 and the cover 23 are at least partially aligned in the vertical direction. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the electric control box 7 is just below the cover 23. That is, the electric control box 7 is closer to the bottom plate 13 than the cover 23. Therefore, the electric control box 7 can be placed in the gap between the first end 21 of the water tank 2 and the housing 1, and the structure is compact, which is conducive to reducing the size of the housing 1 in the horizontal direction.

[0049] Please continue reading Figures 2 to 7, for the convenience of distinction, the two short side panels of the housing 1 are defined as a first short side panel 111 and a second short side panel 112, respectively. In some embodiments, the first short side panel 111 is located on one side of the first end 21 of the water tank 2. Specifically, the first short side panel 111 may be closer to the first end 21 of the water tank 2 than the second short side panel 112. That is, the first end 21 of the water tank 2 faces the first short side panel 111 along the B direction, and the second end 22 of the water tank 2 faces the second short side panel 112 along the B direction. The electric control box 7 is disposed on the first short side panel 111. Specifically, the electric control box 7 may be fastened to the first short side panel 111 by bolts, buckles, etc.

[0050] Please continue reading Figures 1 to 7 In some embodiments, the first short side panel 111 is provided with at least one inspection opening 15, and the housing 1 further comprises at least one inspection cover 16, which is arranged on the first short side panel 111 and covers the inspection opening 15; the cover body 23 and the electric control box 7 can be exposed through at least one inspection opening 15. That is, the number of the inspection openings 15 can be one or more. The cover body 23 and the electric control box 7 can be exposed through the same inspection opening 15; or, the cover body 23 and the electric control box 7 can be exposed through different inspection openings 15 respectively. The number of the inspection covers 16 can be one or more. The same inspection cover 16 can cover multiple different inspection openings 15 at the same time, or multiple inspection covers 16 and multiple inspection openings 15 can be arranged one by one. Specifically, the inspection cover 16 is detachably or rotatably connected to the first short side panel 111. After the personnel move the inspection cover 16, the electrical components, wiring terminals, etc. inside the electric control box 7 are exposed through the inspection opening 15, and the cover 23 of the water tank 2 is also exposed for personnel to inspect. Thus, the water tank 2 and the electric control box 7 can be inspected on the same side of the housing 1, which is more convenient. The second short side panel 112 on the opposite side of the first short side panel 111 can be installed against the wall, without the need to reserve maintenance space on both sides, which saves more installation space.

[0051] For further information, please refer to Figures 1 to 7 In some embodiments, the number of the inspection cover plate 16 is one, and the same inspection cover plate 16 covers all the inspection openings 15. Thus, the water tank 2 and the electric control box 7 share one inspection cover plate 16, and one inspection cover plate 16 can cover the cover body 23 of the water tank 2 and the electric control box 7 at the same time, which can save the number of inspection cover plates 16 (sheet metal parts) to the greatest extent and reduce the production, manufacturing and assembly costs.

[0052] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the first short side panel 111 is provided with a plurality of pipe interfaces 60. Figures 2 to 7In some embodiments, the hot water module further includes a pipeline assembly, which is connected to at least one of the water tank 2, the heat exchanger 3 and the water pump unit 4. That is, the pipeline assembly includes a plurality of pipelines, which are connected to at least one of the water tank 2, the heat exchanger 3 and the water pump unit 4, and can also be connected between any two or three of the water tank 2, the heat exchanger 3 and the water pump unit 4. The pipeline assembly is at least partially penetrated in the pipeline interface 60. That is, the pipeline interface 60 is used to penetrate the pipeline assembly, and the pipeline assembly extends out of the cavity through the pipeline interface 60 and is connected to external devices such as the outdoor host and the water end. According to the specific number of pipelines and the pipeline arrangement of the pipeline assembly, in different embodiments, part of the pipelines of the pipeline assembly may be penetrated in the pipeline interface 60, or all the pipelines of the pipeline assembly may be penetrated in the pipeline interface 60. At the same time, the second short side panel 112 is not provided with the pipeline interface 60. The long side panels 12, the bottom plate 13 and the top cover plate 14 are also not provided with the pipe interface 60. In other words, the outer shell 1 is not provided with a pipe interface 60 at any position other than the first short side panel 111. That is, the pipes used to connect the equipment inside and outside the cavity are all concentrated from one side of the first short side panel 111, and the second short side panel 112 on the opposite side of the first short side panel 111 may not be provided with any interface. As a result, the pipes used to connect the equipment inside and outside the cavity can be concentrated on one of the short sides of the outer shell 1, avoiding the detour of the pipes; when installing the hot water module, it is only necessary to consider the layout relationship between the first short side panel 111 where the pipe interface 60 is located and the outdoor host. According to different layout requirements, the hot water module can be flexibly flipped and installed. When the hot water module is installed, the second short side panel 112 without any interface can be set against the wall, which is conducive to saving installation space.

[0053] Please also read Figures 2 to 7 In some embodiments, the pipeline assembly includes a refrigerant input pipe 82, a refrigerant output pipe 81, a heat exchanger water inlet pipe 83, a heat exchanger water outlet pipe 84, a zero cold water inlet pipe 85, a zero cold water outlet pipe 86, a cold water access pipe 87, a hot water output pipe 88 and a sewage pipe 89. The connection relationship and function of each pipeline are as follows:

[0054] The refrigerant input pipe 82 and the refrigerant output pipe 81 are each connected to the heat exchanger 3 at one end, and the other end of each is extended out of the cavity through two pipe interfaces 60 to connect to the outdoor host. The refrigerant input pipe 82 is used to input the refrigerant in the outdoor host into the heat exchanger 3, and the refrigerant output pipe 81 is used to output the refrigerant in the heat exchanger 3 to the outdoor host.

[0055] The heat exchanger water inlet pipe 83 and the heat exchanger water outlet pipe 84 are each connected to the heat exchanger 3 at one end, and are each connected to the water tank 2 at the other end. The first water pump 41 (circulating water pump) is connected to the heat exchanger water inlet pipe 83. The water inlet body of the heat exchanger water inlet pipe 83 is the heat exchanger 3, and the heat exchanger water inlet pipe 83 is used to input the water in the water tank 2 into the heat exchanger 3 for heat exchange. The water outlet body of the heat exchanger water outlet pipe 84 is the heat exchanger 3, and the heat exchanger water outlet pipe 84 is used to output the water in the heat exchanger 3 after heat exchange to the water tank 2.

[0056] One end of the cold water inlet pipe 87 is connected to the water tank 2, and the other end extends out of the cavity through one of the pipe interfaces 60 and is used to connect to a cold water source such as tap water. One end of the hot water outlet pipe 88 is connected to the water tank 2, and the other end extends out of the cavity through one of the pipe interfaces 60 and is used to connect to a water end (such as a shower, a faucet, etc.).

[0057] Taking the second water pump 42 as a zero-cold water pump as an example, one end of the zero-cold water inlet pipe 85 is connected to the second water pump 42, and the other end extends out of the cavity through one of the pipe interfaces 60 and can be used to connect the pipe at the water end. One end of the zero-cold water outlet pipe 86 is connected to the second water pump 42, and the other end is connected to the water tank 2. Alternatively, the other end of the zero-cold water outlet pipe 86 can also be connected to the same tap water inlet pipe as the water tank 2. The cold water in the pipe at the water end is sent to the water tank 2 for reheating via the zero-cold water inlet pipe 85. In an embodiment in which there is no zero-cold water pump but only a circulating water pump, the pipe assembly may not be provided with the zero-cold water inlet pipe 85 and the zero-cold water outlet pipe 86.

[0058] One end of the drain pipe 89 is connected to the water tank 2 , and the other end thereof extends out of the cavity through one of the pipe interfaces 60 for draining the water tank 2 .

[0059] The principle of preparing hot water by the corresponding hot water module is roughly as follows: the external high-temperature refrigerant provided by the outdoor host enters the heat exchanger 3 through the refrigerant input pipe 82; the cold water in the water tank 2 is output through the heat exchanger water inlet pipe 83 and enters the heat exchanger 3 under the power provided by the circulating water pump, and the cold water is heated by heat exchange with the high-temperature refrigerant in the heat exchanger 3. The heated hot water comes out of the heat exchanger water outlet pipe 84 and returns to the water tank 2, and the refrigerant after releasing heat returns to the outdoor host through the refrigerant output pipe 81.

[0060] Correspondingly, if Figures 2 to 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the refrigerant input pipe 82 , the refrigerant output pipe 81 , the zero cold water inlet pipe 85 , the zero cold water outlet pipe 86 , the cold water access pipe 87 and the hot water output pipe 88 are respectively passed through the corresponding pipeline interfaces 60 .

[0061] In some embodiments, a second avoidance space is defined between at least part of the pipeline assembly and the first short side panel 111, and the electric control box 7 is located in the second avoidance space. Specifically, the second avoidance space may be defined between part of the pipelines of the pipeline assembly and the first short side panel 111; or, the second avoidance space may be defined between all the pipelines of the pipeline assembly and the first short side panel 111. Thus, a space may be reserved between the pipeline assembly and the first short side panel 111 to accommodate the electric control box 7, thereby avoiding physical position interference between the pipeline assembly and the electric control box 7. For example, see Figures 5 to 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the interval between the refrigerant inlet pipe 82 and the first short side panel 111 defines the second avoidance space, that is, the refrigerant inlet pipe 82 is bent in two sections on the extension path to avoid the electric control box 7. In other words, the electric control box 7 is located between the refrigerant inlet pipe 82 and the first short side panel 111.

[0062] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the center of the pipe connected to the water tank 2 (which may include at least one of the heat exchanger water inlet pipe 83, the heat exchanger water outlet pipe 84, the cold water inlet pipe 87, the hot water outlet pipe 88 and the sewage pipe 89) is aligned with the center of the cross section of the water tank 2 along the direction A, and is led out from the bottom of the water tank 2. Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the outer circumference of the water tank 2 includes a first semicircular surface 24 and a second semicircular surface 25 connected to each other. Figure 8 The dotted line shown is the boundary line between the first semicircular surface 24 and the second semicircular surface 25. The first semicircular surface 24 is closer to the bottom plate 13 than the second semicircular surface 25. The interface of the pipeline connected to the water tank 2 (which may include at least one of the heat exchanger water inlet pipe 83, the heat exchanger water outlet pipe 84, the cold water access pipe 87, the hot water output pipe 88 and the sewage pipe 89) on the water tank 2 is located on the first semicircular surface 24. In other words, the interface of the pipeline connected to the water tank 2 on the water tank 2 is located on the side of the water tank 2 facing the bottom plate 13. As a result, the pipeline connected to the water tank 2 can be centrally arranged below the water tank 2, making full use of the space below the water tank 2, avoiding the pipeline from winding, and helping to reduce the size of the shell 1 in the horizontal direction.

[0063] Furthermore, in some embodiments, a heating element (not shown) capable of generating heat by power is provided inside the water tank 2 . The heating element is in direct contact with the water stored inside the water tank 2 . The heating element serves as an auxiliary heating element for directly heating the water inside the water tank 2 .

[0064] like Figures 3 to 5 As shown, since the heat exchanger 3 and the water pump unit 4 are both arranged below the water tank 2, an area can be left on one side of the water tank 2 in the horizontal direction for arranging the pipeline components. The pipeline components can thus be centrally arranged on one side of the water tank 2 in the horizontal direction, thus avoiding pipeline detours to a great extent.

[0065] It can be understood that the above embodiments only express the preferred implementation modes of the present invention, and the description thereof is relatively specific and detailed, but it cannot be understood as limiting the patent scope of the present invention. It should be pointed out that, for ordinary technicians in this field, without departing from the concept of the present invention, the above technical features can be freely combined, and several deformations and improvements can be made, which all belong to the protection scope of the present invention. Therefore, all equivalent changes and modifications made to the scope of the claims of the present invention should belong to the scope covered by the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A hot water module, characterized in that: include: A housing (1), the housing (1) encloses a cavity and comprises at least a bottom plate (13); A water tank (2), wherein the water tank (2) is arranged in the cavity; A heat exchanger (3), the heat exchanger (3) being arranged in the cavity and located on a side of the water tank (2) close to the bottom plate (13) in the vertical direction.

2. The hot water module according to claim 1, characterized in that: The heat exchanger (3) is annular; wherein The size of the heat exchanger (3) in the horizontal direction is substantially consistent with the size of the water tank (2) in the horizontal direction; Or, the length of the heat exchanger (3) is 70% to 110% of the length of the water tank (2); Alternatively, the width of the heat exchanger (3) is 60% to 110% of the width of the water tank (2).

3. The hot water module according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hot water module further comprises: a water pump unit (4), wherein the water pump unit (4) is arranged in the cavity; wherein: The water pump unit (4) is located on one side of the heat exchanger (3) along a horizontal direction, the horizontal direction includes a first horizontal direction, the housing (1) further includes two long side panels (12) arranged at a relative interval along the first horizontal direction, and the water pump unit (4) is at least partially arranged on one side of the heat exchanger (3) along the first horizontal direction; and / or, The water pump unit (4) is at least partially arranged on a side of the water tank (2) close to the bottom plate (13) in the vertical direction.

4. The hot water module according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hot water module further comprises a support unit (5) arranged on the bottom plate (13), the water tank (2) abuts against the support unit (5), and the support unit (5) defines a first avoidance space; The heat exchanger (3) is at least partially disposed in the first avoidance space.

5. The hot water module according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hot water module also includes an electric control box (7) arranged in the cavity; The electric control box (7) is located on one side of the end of the water tank (2); or, The water tank (2) comprises a first end (21) and a second end (22) opposite to each other, the first end (21) being provided with a cover (23); the electric control box (7) and the cover (23) are located on the same side of the water tank (2).

6. The hot water module according to claim 5, characterized in that: The projections of the electric control box (7) and the cover body (23) in the vertical direction at least partially overlap.

7. The hot water module according to claim 5, characterized in that: The housing (1) comprises a first short side panel (111) and a second short side panel (112) which are arranged opposite to each other, the first short side panel (111) being located on one side of a first end (21) of the water tank (2), and the electric control box (7) being arranged on the first short side panel (111).

8. The hot water module according to claim 7, characterized in that: The first short side panel (111) is provided with at least one inspection opening (15), and the housing (1) further comprises at least one inspection cover (16); The inspection cover plate (16) is arranged on the first short side panel (111), is detachably connected or rotatably connected to the first short side panel (111), and is capable of covering the inspection opening (15); The cover body (23) and the electric control box (7) can be exposed through at least one inspection opening (15).

9. The hot water module according to claim 8, characterized in that: The number of the inspection cover plate (16) is one, and the inspection cover plate (16) completely covers the inspection opening (15).

10. The hot water module according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hot water module further comprises a pipeline assembly, the outer circumferential surface of the water tank (2) comprises a first semicircular surface (24) and a second semicircular surface (25) connected to each other, the first semicircular surface (24) being closer to the bottom plate (13) than the second semicircular surface (25); The pipeline assembly comprises a plurality of pipelines connected to the water tank (2), and the interfaces of the pipelines connected to the water tank (2) on the water tank (2) are located on the first semicircular surface (24).

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