water softener
By placing the brine tank above the resin tank in the water softener, and using gravity flow instead of a water pump, the structure is simplified and the cost is reduced. This solves the problems of complexity and high cost of existing water softeners, and achieves efficient utilization of brine and convenient mode switching.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- FOSHAN MIDEA CHUNGHO WATER PURIFICATION MFG
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-17
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-24
Smart Images

Figure CN120208366B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of water softener technology, and particularly to a water softener. Background Technology
[0002] Water softeners have a regeneration mode. In this mode, brine from the brine tank flows into the resin tank to react with the resin particles, restoring them to a state capable of softening. Related technologies typically use a pump in the brine tank to pump the brine to the resin tank. This approach results in a complex water softener structure and high product cost. Summary of the Invention
[0003] The main objective of this invention is to propose a water softener that simplifies its structure and reduces its product cost.
[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a water softener comprising:
[0005] A resin tank, comprising a resin chamber and a water inlet communicating with the resin chamber; and
[0006] A salt tank is located above the resin tank and has a salt solution outlet connected to the water inlet. The salt solution in the salt tank flows into the resin tank by gravity.
[0007] In one embodiment, the water inlet is located on the top surface of the resin tank, and the water softener further includes a water circuit plate located at the water inlet and below the salt tank. The water circuit plate has a water passage cavity, and the salt outlet is connected to the water inlet through the water passage cavity.
[0008] In one embodiment, the water passage includes a regeneration chamber, an inlet channel and an outlet channel respectively connected to the regeneration chamber, the chamber wall of the regeneration chamber is provided with a brine inlet connected to the brine outlet, the inlet channel is connected to an external water source, the outlet channel is connected to the inlet, and the water softener also includes a regeneration piston, which is movably disposed in the regeneration chamber to switch between regeneration mode and water production mode;
[0009] In the water production mode, the water inlet channel is connected to the water outlet channel, and the brine inlet is isolated from the water outlet channel;
[0010] In the regeneration mode, the brine inlet is connected to the water outlet channel, and the water inlet channel is separated from the water outlet channel.
[0011] In one embodiment, the water inlet channel and the water outlet channel extend in the same direction and are located on opposite sides of the regeneration chamber.
[0012] In one embodiment, the regeneration chamber wall is further provided with a water inlet and a water outlet, the water inlet being connected to the water inlet channel and the water outlet being connected to the water outlet channel; the regeneration piston is provided with a liquid guiding channel, a liquid guiding inlet and a liquid guiding outlet connected to the liquid guiding channel, the liquid guiding inlet being connected to the brine inlet and the liquid guiding outlet being connected to the water outlet; in the water production mode, the liquid guiding inlet and / or the liquid guiding outlet are isolated; in the regeneration mode, the liquid guiding inlet and the liquid guiding outlet are connected.
[0013] In one embodiment, the regeneration piston moves along a first direction and includes a piston and a first conduit connected to the side of the piston near the brine inlet. The liquid channel is at least partially formed in the piston and the first conduit. The regeneration chamber includes a piston chamber and a conduit chamber that are in communication. The piston chamber has a water inlet and a water outlet on its wall. The conduit chamber has a brine inlet on its wall. The piston is disposed in the piston chamber. The first conduit has the liquid inlet at its end that extends into the conduit chamber.
[0014] In one embodiment, the end face of the first conduit is closed, the liquid inlet is located on the side wall of the first conduit, and the saline inlet is located on the side wall of the conduit chamber. In the water production mode, the liquid inlet and the saline inlet are offset in the first direction. In the regeneration mode, the liquid inlet and the saline inlet overlap in at least a partial area in the first direction.
[0015] In one embodiment, the regeneration piston further includes a second conduit connected to the side of the piston away from the brine inlet and having the liquid outlet. The liquid channel is partially formed in the second conduit, and the liquid outlet is connected to the water outlet in both the water production mode and the regeneration mode.
[0016] In one embodiment, the water softener further includes a button connected to the regeneration piston, the button being at least partially exposed on the exterior of the water circuit board.
[0017] In one embodiment, the water circuit board has an installation hole communicating with the regeneration chamber, and the water softener further includes a plug in the installation hole. The plug has a guide hole communicating with the regeneration chamber. The button includes a pressing plate and a connecting post connected together. The end of the connecting post away from the pressing plate passes through the guide hole and is connected to the regeneration piston.
[0018] In one embodiment, the regeneration piston can switch from the regeneration mode to the water production mode after being subjected to the inlet pressure of an external water source.
[0019] In one embodiment, the regeneration chamber wall is further provided with a water inlet and a water outlet, the water inlet communicating with the water inlet channel and the water outlet communicating with the water outlet channel; the regeneration chamber extends along a first direction, the regeneration piston includes a piston that moves along the first direction, the water inlet and the water outlet are staggered in the first direction, and the regeneration chamber has a first side and a second side respectively disposed on opposite sides of the piston, the water inlet being located on the first side;
[0020] In the water production mode, the water outlet is at least partially exposed on the first side, the water outlet is connected to the water inlet, and is separated from the brine inlet;
[0021] In the regeneration mode, the water outlet is at least partially exposed on the second side, and the water outlet is connected to and separated from the brine inlet.
[0022] In one embodiment, the salt tank is detachably mounted on the water circuit board.
[0023] In one embodiment, one of the water circuit board and the salt tank is provided with a plurality of positioning holes at intervals, and the other is provided with a positioning post corresponding to the positioning holes, the positioning post being inserted into the positioning holes.
[0024] In one embodiment, the salt tank is provided with a discharge well and a well cover covering the discharge well. The salt outlet is located at the discharge well. The side wall of the well cover is provided with a liquid passage. The outer surface of the discharge well and the well cover are spaced apart to form a liquid passage space. The liquid passage space connects the liquid passage and the salt outlet.
[0025] In one embodiment, the salt tank includes a tank body and a salt grid. The salt grid is disposed in the tank body to divide the inner cavity of the tank body into a liquid passage and a salt cavity located above the liquid passage. The liquid passage communicates with the salt cavity through the grid holes of the salt grid and also communicates with the liquid outlet. The liquid outlet well is disposed on the bottom wall surface of the tank body, and the well cover is formed on the salt grid.
[0026] In one embodiment, the outlet well includes a first well section and a second well section. The first well section is located inside the brine tank and cooperates with the well cover, while the second well section is located outside the brine tank. The water softener also includes a water circuit board and a connector seat located on the water circuit board. The water circuit board has a water passage cavity and a brine inlet. The brine inlet is connected to the water inlet through the water passage cavity. The connector seat is sealed and inserted into the second well section and connects the brine outlet and the brine inlet.
[0027] In one embodiment, the resin tank is provided with an outlet communicating with the resin chamber, and the water softener further includes a flow regulating mechanism, which is located at the outlet to regulate the water flow rate. The flow rate of the flow regulating mechanism in regeneration mode is less than the flow rate in water production mode.
[0028] In one embodiment, the flow regulating mechanism includes:
[0029] The mounting base includes a main flow channel and branch flow channels, wherein the flow rate of the main flow channel is greater than the flow rate of the branch flow channels; and
[0030] A check valve is installed in the main flow channel, where the static water pressure corresponding to the highest water level in the salt tank is less than the minimum opening pressure of the check valve.
[0031] The check valve blocks the main flow channel in the regeneration mode, and opens the main flow channel in the water production mode. The tributary channel is open in both the regeneration mode and the water production mode.
[0032] In one embodiment, the inner wall of the main channel is recessed to form the branch channel.
[0033] In one embodiment, the check valve includes a valve seat, a valve plug, and an elastic element. The valve seat is sealed to the inner wall of the main channel and has a flow cavity connecting the inlet and outlet of the main channel. The valve plug is movably disposed in the flow cavity, and the elastic element connects the valve plug and the valve seat.
[0034] In this invention, because the salt tank is positioned above the resin tank, the hydrostatic pressure difference corresponding to the height difference between the salt solution level inside the salt tank and the inlet of the resin tank can cause the salt solution to flow from the salt tank into the resin tank. That is, the salt solution in the salt tank of this invention can enter the resin tank without relying on a water pump, saving on water pumps and related water circuit structures, thereby simplifying the structure of the water softener and reducing its product cost. Attached Figure Description
[0035] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.
[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a structure of an embodiment of the water softener provided by the present invention;
[0037] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the structure shown;
[0038] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The structure shown is a partial cross-sectional view of the regeneration piston from a side view angle, at which point the water softener is in water production mode.
[0039] Figure 4 for Figure 3 The structure shown is another partial cross-sectional view from a side angle, in which the water softener is in regeneration mode;
[0040] Figure 5 for Figure 1 The structure shown is a partial cross-sectional view from a top angle with the regeneration piston in position, at which point the water softener is in water production mode;
[0041] Figure 6 for Figure 5 The structure shown is another partial cross-sectional view from a side angle, in which the water softener is in regeneration mode;
[0042] Figure 7 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the assembly of the water circuit board and the regeneration piston assembly.
[0043] Figure 8 for Figure 7 The diagram shows the structure of the water channel plate.
[0044] Figure 9 for Figure 8 Side view of the water channel plate shown;
[0045] Figure 10 for Figure 8 The water channel plate shown is a cross-sectional view from the main viewing angle;
[0046] Figure 11 for Figure 8 The water channel plate shown is a cross-sectional view from the left viewing angle;
[0047] Figure 12 for Figure 8 The water channel plate shown is a cross-sectional view from the right viewing angle.
[0048] Figure 13 for Figure 7 Exploded view of the regenerative piston assembly shown;
[0049] Figure 14 for Figure 13 The diagram shows the structure of the piston.
[0050] Figure 15 for Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the piston shown.
[0051] Figure 16 for Figure 13The diagram shows the structure of the button.
[0052] Figure 17 for Figure 13 The diagram shows the structure of the plug;
[0053] Figure 18 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the salt tank and water circuit board.
[0054] Figure 19 for Figure 18 Top view of the structure shown;
[0055] Figure 20 for Figure 19 Sectional view at point AA;
[0056] Figure 21 for Figure 19 The diagram shows the structure of the salt grid.
[0057] Figure 22 for Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the flow regulating mechanism shown;
[0058] Figure 23 for Figure 22 Exploded view of the structure shown;
[0059] Figure 24 for Figure 22 Top view of the structure shown.
[0060] Explanation of icon numbers:
[0061] 100. Resin tank; 101. Resin chamber; 102. Inlet; 103. Outlet; 104. Inlet; 105. Inlet channel; 120. Upper water distributor; 130. Side plug; 131. First plug;
[0062] 200. Salt tank; 201. Salt chamber; 202. Salt outlet; 203. Fluid passage; 210. Tank body; 211. Outlet well; 212. First well section; 213. Second well section; 220. Salt grid; 221. Well cover; 222. Fluid inlet; 223. Fluid passage space;
[0063] 300. Water circuit board; 301. Water inlet channel; 302. Water inlet; 303. Water outlet; 304. Brine inlet; 306. Water outlet channel; 307. Water inlet; 308. Water outlet; 309. Positioning hole; 310. Regeneration chamber; 311. Piston chamber; 312. Conduit chamber; 313. Conduit body; 314. Mounting hole; 315. First side; 316. Second side; 320. Cover; 330. Pipe body; 331. First pipe section; 332. Second pipe section; 333. Third pipe section; 334. Fourth pipe section; 335. Water guide rib;
[0064] 400, Regeneration piston; 403, Liquid guiding channel; 404, Liquid guiding inlet; 405, Liquid guiding outlet; 410, Piston; 411, Piston sealing ring; 420, First conduit; 421, First sealing ring; 422, Second sealing ring; 430, Second conduit; 431, Clip hole;
[0065] 500. Button; 510. Pressing plate; 520. Connecting post; 521. Locking protrusion; 522. Clearance opening;
[0066] 600. Plug; 610. Guide hole; 611. Disc hole section; 612. Column hole section; 613. Button sealing ring;
[0067] 700, Adapter;
[0068] 800. Flow regulating mechanism; 801. Mounting base; 802. Check valve; 803. Main flow channel; 804. Branch flow channel; 810. Valve seat; 811. First ring body; 812. Second ring body; 813. Connecting rib; 814. Flow cavity; 820. Valve plug; 821. Second plug head; 822. Guide rod; 823. Fourth sealing ring; 830. Elastic element; 840. Third sealing ring; 851. Mounting part; 852. Connecting part; 853. Threaded structure.
[0069] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation
[0070] 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 a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0071] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indications are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.
[0072] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.
[0073] Water softeners have a regeneration mode. In this mode, brine from the brine tank flows into the resin tank to react with the resin particles, restoring them to a state capable of softening. Related technologies typically use a pump in the brine tank to pump the brine to the resin tank. This approach results in a complex water softener structure and high product cost.
[0074] In view of this, the present invention proposes a water softener that can save on the structural setup of water pumps and related water circuits, thereby simplifying the structure of the water softener and reducing its product cost.
[0075] Please see Figure 1 In one embodiment of the present invention, the water softener includes a resin tank 100 and a brine tank 200. The resin tank 100 is provided with a resin cavity 101 and a water inlet 102 communicating with the resin cavity 101. The brine tank 200 is located above the resin tank 100 and is provided with a brine outlet 202. The brine outlet 202 is communicating with the water inlet 102. The brine in the brine tank 200 flows into the resin tank 100 by gravity.
[0076] In this invention, since the salt tank 200 is positioned above the resin tank 100, the hydrostatic pressure difference corresponding to the height difference between the salt solution level in the salt tank 200 and the inlet 102 of the resin tank 100 can cause the salt solution to flow from the salt tank 200 into the resin tank 100. That is, the salt solution in the salt tank 200 can enter the resin tank 100 without relying on a water pump, saving on the water pump and its related water circuit structure, thereby simplifying the structure of the water softener and reducing its product cost.
[0077] It should be noted that the water softeners protected by this invention include, but are not limited to, central water softeners and point-of-use water softeners. Point-of-use water softeners primarily provide soft water to localized or individual water-using devices or water outlets to improve the water quality delivered to these devices or outlets, reduce the impact of hard water on equipment structures, people, or clothing, and enhance the comfort of localized water use. Specifically, water-using devices include, but are not limited to, water heaters, washing machines, or humidifiers, and water outlets include, but are not limited to, showerheads, faucets, etc. For example, a point-of-use water softener used in a bathroom can ensure that the water from the showerhead is soft water, thereby improving the user's water comfort. For ease of explanation, this invention will use a point-of-use water softener applied in a bathroom as an example for illustration.
[0078] In one embodiment, the inlet 102 is located on the top surface of the resin tank 100. The water softener also includes a water channel plate 300 located at the inlet 102 and below the brine tank 200. The water channel plate 300 has a water passage cavity, and the brine outlet 202 is connected to the inlet 102 through the water passage cavity. Thus, the water channel plate 300 covers the inlet 102 of the resin tank 100 and connects to the brine outlet 202 of the brine tank 200, simplifying the structure of the resin tank 100 and facilitating its manufacturing. Of course, in other embodiments, the water channel plate 300 may be omitted, and a structure for connecting the brine tank 200 may be directly provided on the resin tank 100.
[0079] In one embodiment, the water passage includes a regeneration chamber 310, an inlet channel 301 and an outlet channel 306 respectively connected to the regeneration chamber 310. The chamber wall of the regeneration chamber 310 is provided with a brine inlet 304 connected to the brine outlet 202. The inlet channel 301 is connected to an external water source, and the outlet channel 306 is connected to the inlet 102. The water softener also includes a regeneration piston 400, which is movably disposed in the regeneration chamber 310 to switch between regeneration mode and water production mode. In water production mode, the inlet channel 301 and the outlet channel 306 are connected, and the brine inlet 304 is separated from the outlet channel 306. In regeneration mode, the brine inlet 304 and the outlet channel 306 are connected, and the inlet channel 301 is separated from the outlet channel 306.
[0080] Specifically, in water production mode, the inlet channel 301 and the outlet channel 306 are connected. External water flows through the regeneration chamber 310 to the inlet 102 and into the resin chamber 101. In the resin chamber 101, it is softened by the resin particles and converted into soft water. This softened water flows out through the outlet 103 and is supplied externally. At this time, the brine inlet 304 is separated from the outlet channel 306, so the brine tank 200 and the resin tank 100 cannot be connected through the regeneration chamber 310, and the brine cannot enter the resin chamber 101.
[0081] In regeneration mode, the brine inlet 304 is connected to the outlet channel 306. The brine in the brine tank 200 flows through the regeneration chamber 310 to the inlet 102 and then into the resin chamber 101. In the resin chamber 101, calcium and magnesium ions are displaced from the resin particles to achieve the regeneration function. The wastewater generated by the regeneration function is discharged through the outlet 103. At this time, the inlet channel 301 and the outlet channel 306 are isolated, so external water sources cannot enter the resin tank 100 through the regeneration chamber 310.
[0082] After the regeneration piston 400 is driven to switch from the self-water production mode to the regeneration mode, the water softener enters the regeneration mode and uses the brine in the brine tank 200 to regenerate the resin particles in the resin tank 100. After the regeneration piston 400 is driven to switch from the self-regeneration mode to the water production mode, the water softener resumes the water production mode and uses the brine in the brine tank 200 to regenerate the resin particles in the resin tank 100.
[0083] In this embodiment, the water softener switches between water production mode and regeneration mode by setting up a regeneration chamber 310 and a regeneration piston 400. The structure is simple and easy to implement. The driving force on the regeneration piston 400 can be manually driven by the user, electrically controlled by a drive component such as a motor, or caused by the pressure difference on both sides of the regeneration piston 400.
[0084] In one embodiment, the regeneration piston 400 can switch from regeneration mode to water production mode after being subjected to the inlet pressure of an external water source. Specifically, when a user needs to use a water softener to produce soft water and opens the inlet valve (e.g., the mixing valve used in a bathroom water heater) connected to the inlet 104 of the water softener, the inlet pressure of the inlet 104 is transmitted to the regeneration chamber 310 and acts on the regeneration piston 400. Under the action of the inlet pressure of the external water source, the regeneration piston 400 will switch from the position corresponding to the regeneration mode to the position corresponding to the water production mode, thereby causing the water softener to automatically return to the water production mode, so as to achieve the effect of generating soft water using the resin particles in the resin tank 100.
[0085] In this embodiment, the regeneration piston 400, under the pressure of the inlet water from the external water source, will switch from the position corresponding to the regeneration mode to the position corresponding to the water production mode. That is, the regeneration piston 400 has the characteristic of automatically resetting when water is used, without the need for the user to manually operate the regeneration piston 400 to reset. This solves the problem of the cumbersome operation of opening and closing the regeneration mode and improves the ease of operation of the water softener's regeneration mode.
[0086] In one embodiment, the inlet channel 301 and the outlet channel 306 extend in the same direction and are located on opposite sides of the regeneration chamber 310. Thus, in water production mode, the raw water flows from the inlet channel 301 into the regeneration chamber 310 and into the outlet channel 306 in essentially the same direction, reducing pressure loss along the flow path and increasing the pressure when it enters the resin tank 100, thereby improving the softening rate and effect, and also increasing the supply pressure of the softened water. Of course, in other embodiments, the inlet channel 301 and the outlet channel 306 may extend in different directions, or they may be located on the same side of the regeneration chamber 310.
[0087] Please see Figures 3 to 6 In one embodiment, the regeneration chamber 310 extends along a first direction, and the regeneration piston 400 includes a piston 410 that moves along the first direction. A water inlet 302 and a water outlet 303 are staggered along the first direction. The regeneration chamber 310 has a first side 315 and a second side 316 located on opposite sides of the piston 410. The water inlet 302 is located on the first side 315. In water production mode, the water outlet 303 is at least partially exposed on the first side 315, communicating with the water inlet 302 and separated from the brine inlet 304. In regeneration mode, the water outlet 303 is at least partially exposed on the second side 316, communicating with the brine inlet 304 and separated from the water inlet 302. The first direction is parallel or nearly parallel to the axial direction of the piston 410. Thus, by moving the piston 410 along the first direction, the water outlet 303 can be connected to the water inlet 302 on the first side 315 of the regeneration chamber 310, or the water outlet 303 can be connected to the brine inlet 304 on the second side 316 of the regeneration chamber 310. That is, the first side 315 and the second side 316 of the regeneration chamber 310 are used to connect the water inlet 302 and the brine inlet 304 respectively, thereby realizing mode switching. The structure is simple and the operation is reliable.
[0088] Specifically, piston 410 can move along the extending direction of regeneration chamber 310. When piston 410 moves to a position where both water inlet 302 and water outlet 303 are at least partially located on the first side 315, water inlet 302 and water outlet 303 are connected through the space of the first side 315 of regeneration chamber 310. At this time, water outlet 303 and brine inlet 304 are isolated. The water softener enters water production mode; please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 3 and Figure 5 .
[0089] When piston 410 moves to the point where water inlet 302 is located on the first side 315 and water outlet 303 is not fully exposed on the first side 315, water inlet 302 and water outlet 303 are blocked by piston 410. At this time, water outlet 303 and brine inlet 304 are connected. The water softener enters regeneration mode. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 4 and Figure 6 .
[0090] In regeneration mode, after the brine flows from the brine tank 200 into the resin tank 100, the water outlet 303 and the space on the second side 316 of the regeneration chamber 310 are connected to the atmosphere through the brine inlet 304. The end face of the piston 410 facing the second side 316 is subjected to atmospheric pressure. If the water inlet valve connected to the water inlet 104 is opened at this time, the water inlet 104 is connected to an external water source, and the water source flows into the space on the first side 315 of the regeneration chamber 310 through the water inlet 302. The water pressure on the end face of the piston 410 facing the first side 315 is greater than the atmospheric pressure on its end face facing the second side 316, causing the piston 410 to move along the direction from the first side 315 to the second side 316 to the position corresponding to the water production mode. After the piston 410 moves into position, the water inlet 302 can be connected to the water outlet 303 through the space on the first side 315 of the regeneration chamber 310, so that the raw water can flow to the water outlet 303 and flow into the resin tank 100.
[0091] It is understandable that the first side 315 and the second side 316 of the regeneration chamber 310 are relative concepts, with the piston 410 as the dividing reference. Therefore, when the piston 410 moves, the volume of the first side 315 and the second side 316 will change, but the relative positional relationship between the two remains unchanged.
[0092] Of course, in other embodiments, the piston 410 may move along the first direction so that the water outlet 303 can be connected to the water inlet 302 or the brine inlet 304 on the first side 315. That is, both the brine inlet 304 and the water inlet 302 utilize the space of the first side 315 of the regeneration chamber 310.
[0093] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 4In one embodiment, the regeneration chamber 310 is further provided with a water inlet 302 and a water outlet 303. The water inlet 302 is connected to the water inlet channel 301, and the water outlet 303 is connected to the water outlet channel 306. The regeneration piston 400 is provided with a liquid guiding channel 403, a liquid guiding inlet 404 and a liquid guiding outlet 405 connected to the liquid guiding channel 403. The liquid guiding inlet 404 is connected to the brine inlet 304, and the liquid guiding outlet 405 is connected to the water outlet 303. In the water production mode, the liquid guiding inlet 404 and / or the liquid guiding outlet 405 are isolated. In the regeneration mode, the liquid guiding inlet 404 and the liquid guiding outlet 405 are connected. Specifically, when the piston 410 is moved to the position corresponding to the water production mode, at least one of the liquid guiding inlet 404 and the liquid guiding outlet 405 on the liquid guiding channel 403 is isolated, thereby blocking the connection between the water outlet 303 and the brine inlet 304. Thus, the brine inlet 304 is indirectly connected to the water outlet 303 through the liquid guiding channel 403, and the water inlet 302 is indirectly connected to the water outlet 303 through the space outside the liquid guiding channel 403 in the regeneration chamber 310. This allows the brine and raw water to flow relatively independently within the regeneration chamber 310, which is beneficial for switching between the water production mode and the regeneration mode.
[0094] Optionally in this embodiment, both the brine inlet 304 and the water inlet 302 are located on the first side 315. The brine inlet 304 is indirectly connected to the water outlet 303 through a dedicated liquid guiding channel 403, allowing both the brine inlet 304 and the water inlet 302 to be arranged on the first side 315 of the regeneration chamber 310, thereby improving the compactness of the structure. Of course, in other embodiments, the brine inlet 304 may be located on the second side 316, in which case the liquid guiding channel 403, the liquid guiding inlet 404, and the liquid guiding outlet 405 may not be provided.
[0095] Please see Figures 3 to 6 In one embodiment, the regeneration piston 400 moves along a first direction and includes a piston 410 and a first conduit 420. The first conduit 420 is connected to the side of the piston 410 near the brine inlet 304. A liquid guiding channel 403 is at least partially formed in the piston 410 and the first conduit 420. The regeneration chamber 310 includes a piston chamber 311 and a conduit chamber 312 that are connected. The wall of the piston chamber 311 is provided with a water inlet 302 and a water outlet 303. The wall of the conduit chamber 312 is provided with a brine inlet 304. The piston 410 is located in the piston chamber 311. The first conduit 420 has a liquid guiding inlet 404 at its end extending into the conduit chamber 312. This design is simple and easy to implement. Furthermore, the water inlet 302 and the brine inlet 304 are separated by the wall of the conduit chamber 312, reducing the risk of mutual interference between liquid flows under different operating modes. Of course, in other embodiments, the first conduit 420 may not be provided.
[0096] It is understood that the first conduit 420 and the conduit chamber 312 cooperate with each other to achieve the function of opening or closing the fluid inlet 404 and the saline inlet 304. For example, in one embodiment, the end face of the first conduit 420 is closed, the fluid inlet 404 is located on the side wall of the first conduit 420, and the saline inlet 304 is located on the side wall of the conduit chamber 312. In the water production mode, the fluid inlet 404 and the saline inlet 304 are staggered in the first direction. In the regeneration mode, the fluid inlet 404 and the saline inlet 304 overlap in at least a partial area in the first direction. Thus, the structure is simple and the function is easy to implement.
[0097] Specifically, in the water production mode, the first conduit 420 moves to the position corresponding to the water production mode in the conduit chamber 312, so that the liquid inlet 404 and the brine inlet 304 are misaligned in the first direction, so that the brine in the brine tank 200 cannot enter the liquid channel 403 through the liquid inlet 404, and thus cannot flow to the second side 316 of the regeneration chamber 310 and the water outlet 303.
[0098] In regeneration mode, the first catheter 420 moves within the catheter chamber 312 to a position corresponding to the regeneration mode, such that the fluid inlet 404 and the saline inlet 304 overlap at least partially in the first direction. That is, the fluid inlet 404 and the saline inlet 304 are connected, so the saline in the saline tank 200 can enter the fluid channel 403 through the fluid inlet 404 and enter the second side 316 of the regeneration chamber 310 through the fluid channel 403 to flow to the water outlet 303.
[0099] Of course, in other embodiments, the brine inlet 304 can be located on the end face of the first conduit 420, and the inner wall of the conduit chamber 312 can be provided with a brine conduit with a closed end face. The brine inlet 304 is located on the side wall of the brine conduit, and the brine inlet 404 includes a large-hole section and a small-hole section that are connected. The large-hole section is located near the brine outlet 405, and the brine conduit is inserted into the brine inlet 404. In water production mode, the brine inlet 304 is located in the small-hole section, and the side wall of the brine conduit is sealed to the hole wall of the small-hole section, so that the brine inlet 304 cannot be connected to the large-hole section and the brine channel 403. In regeneration mode, the brine inlet 304 is located in the large-hole section, and the outer surface of the brine conduit is spaced apart from the hole wall of the large-hole section, and a gap is formed at the interval for brine to flow through. The brine inlet 304 can be connected to the large-hole section and the brine channel 403 through this gap.
[0100] Please see Figure 5In one embodiment, a first sealing ring 421 is fitted around the outer periphery of the first conduit 420, and the liquid inlet 404 is located on the side of the first sealing ring 421 near the piston chamber 311. In water production mode, the outer periphery of the first sealing ring 421 seals the side wall of the conduit chamber 312. Thus, by providing the first sealing ring 421, the sealing effect between the first conduit 420 and the conduit chamber 312 can be improved in water production mode, preventing brine from leaking into the first side 315 of the regeneration chamber 310 and mixing into the raw water flow, thus affecting the softening process of the resin tank 100 and ensuring the softening effect in water production mode. Of course, in other embodiments, the first sealing ring 421 may not be provided.
[0101] Please see Figure 5 In one embodiment, a second sealing ring 422 is fitted around the outer periphery of the first conduit 420. The liquid inlet 404 is located on the side of the second sealing ring 422 away from the piston chamber 311. The outer periphery of the second sealing ring 422 seals the side wall of the conduit chamber 312, thus isolating the liquid inlet 404 from the water inlet 302. In this way, by providing the second sealing ring 422, the sealing effect between the first conduit 420 and the conduit chamber 312 can be improved in regeneration mode, thereby preventing brine from entering the first side 315 of the regeneration chamber 310 through the gap between the inner wall of the first conduit 420 and the conduit chamber 312, and flowing back into the water inlet 104 and the external water inlet valve connected to the water inlet 104, causing corrosion of the internal structure of the water valve. Of course, in other embodiments, the first sealing ring 421 may not be provided.
[0102] It is understood that in embodiments where the first conduit 420 is simultaneously provided with a first sealing ring 421 and a second sealing ring 422, the first sealing ring 421 and the second sealing ring 422 are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the liquid inlet 404, wherein the first sealing ring 421 is located on the side of the liquid inlet 404 away from the piston chamber 311. When the first conduit 420 is in the position corresponding to the water production mode, both the first sealing ring 421 and the second sealing ring 422 are located on the side of the brine inlet 304 closer to the piston chamber 311. During the process of the first conduit 420 moving to the position corresponding to the regeneration mode, the first sealing ring 421 will pass over the brine inlet 304 until the first sealing ring 421 is located on the side of the brine inlet 304 away from the piston chamber 311, at which time the second sealing ring 422 is still located on the side of the brine inlet 304 closer to the piston chamber 311.
[0103] Please see Figure 3In one embodiment, the regeneration piston 400 further includes a piston 410 sealing ring fitted around the outer periphery of the piston 410, with the outer periphery of the piston 410 sealing ring abutting against the inner wall of the piston chamber 311. Thus, in regeneration mode, the piston 410 sealing ring can seal against the inner wall of the piston chamber 311, preventing raw water located in the first side 315 space from entering the second side 316 through the gap between the regeneration piston 400 and the inner wall of the piston chamber 311. This prevents the brine from being diluted by accidentally mixed raw water, thus avoiding a weakening of the regeneration effect when the brine enters the resin tank 100 for regeneration. Of course, in other embodiments, the piston 410 sealing ring may not be provided.
[0104] Please see Figure 9 and Figure 11 In one embodiment, the water outlet 303 includes a plurality of water outlet grilles, which are spaced apart circumferentially along the piston 410. Thus, by configuring the water outlet 303 as a structure with water outlet grilles, the water outlet 303 is divided into multiple grilles. When the piston 410 passes over the water outlet 308, not too much of the piston 410 sealing ring will be trapped inside the water outlet 303, thereby avoiding the problem of the piston 410 sealing ring being scratched or damaged by the edge of the water outlet 303 when it passes over the water outlet 308. Of course, in other embodiments, the water outlet 303 can also be configured as a simple through-hole structure.
[0105] Please see Figures 3 to 6 In one embodiment, the regeneration piston 400 further includes a second conduit 430, which is connected to the side of the piston 410 away from the brine inlet 304 and has a liquid outlet 405. A liquid channel 403 is partially formed in the second conduit 430, and the liquid outlet 405 is connected to the water outlet 303 in both water production and regeneration modes. That is, in this embodiment, the liquid outlet 405 remains connected to the water outlet 303, regardless of whether the water softener is in water production or regeneration mode. Based on this, whether the liquid inlet 404 is connected to the brine inlet 304 determines whether the brine inlet 304 can be connected to the second side 316 space via the liquid channel 403. Thus, by setting the second conduit 430 to form the liquid outlet 405 and extending the liquid channel 403, the structure of the piston 410 is simplified and its manufacturing cost is reduced. Of course, in other embodiments, the second conduit 430 may not be provided, the liquid channel 403 is partially formed in the piston 410, and the liquid outlet 405 is provided in the piston 410.
[0106] Please see Figure 12In one embodiment, a conduit cavity 313 protrudes inward from the end face of the piston chamber 311, a conduit cavity 312 is disposed within the conduit cavity 313, and the axis of the water inlet 302 is located outside the conduit cavity 313. That is, the arrangement of the water inlet 302 is adjusted to deviate as far as possible from the protruding structure of the conduit cavity 313. Specifically, the axis of the water inlet 302 intersects with the first direction, and water at the water inlet 302 flows into the first side 315 space along the direction intersecting the first direction. If the water inlet 302 is completely facing the conduit cavity 313, most of the water flow will directly impact the conduit cavity 313, leading not only to poor water intake but also potentially causing water flow noise. Therefore, by adjusting the arrangement of the water inlet 302 to deviate as far as possible from the protruding structure of the conduit cavity 313, the interference and obstruction of the water flow from the water inlet 302 by the conduit cavity 313 can be reduced, thereby improving water intake smoothness and reducing water flow noise. Of course, in other embodiments, the axis of the water inlet 302 may pass through the conduit cavity 313.
[0107] Please see Figure 12 Optionally, the axis of the conduit cavity 313 extends along a first direction, and the axis of the water inlet 302 is located below the middle of the conduit cavity 313. This improves the structural compactness of the water circuit board 300, thus facilitating the miniaturization design of the water softener. Of course, in other embodiments, the axis of the water inlet 302 may also be located above or in front of the conduit cavity 313.
[0108] It should be noted that in this embodiment of the invention, the front-back direction refers to the first direction, the up-down direction refers to the height direction of the water softener, and the left-right direction refers to the axial direction of the water inlet 302. The first side 315 and the second side 316 of the regeneration chamber 310 are distributed sequentially from back to front.
[0109] Please see Figure 5 and Figure 7 In one embodiment, the water softener also includes a button 500 connected to the regeneration piston 400, with the button 500 at least partially exposed on the exterior of the water circuit board 300. That is, in this embodiment, the regeneration piston 400 is manually driven by the user to switch from the self-watering mode to the regeneration mode. This results in a simple structure and low product cost. Optionally, in this embodiment, the button 500 is exposed on the front surface of the water softener. This design is more in line with user habits, facilitating user operation of the button 500 and checking whether the button 500 is pressed properly.
[0110] Please see Figure 4 and Figure 7In one embodiment, the water circuit board 300 has a mounting hole 314 communicating with the regeneration chamber 310. The water softener also includes a plug 600 disposed in the mounting hole 314. The plug 600 has a guide hole 610 communicating with the regeneration chamber 310. The button 500 includes a pressing plate 510 and a connecting post 520 connected together. The end of the connecting post 520 away from the pressing plate 510 passes through the guide hole 610 and is connected to the regeneration piston 400. Thus, the structure is simple and easy to install.
[0111] Specifically, during the assembly of the water softener, the regeneration piston 400 is first inserted into the regeneration chamber 310 through the mounting hole 314. Then, the plug 600 is installed onto the mounting hole 314. Next, the connecting post 520 of the button 500 passes through the guide hole 610 on the plug 600 and extends into the regeneration chamber 310 until the connecting post 520 and the regeneration piston 400 are connected and fixed. Of course, in other embodiments, the plug 600 may not be provided. Alternatively, the connecting post 520 of the button 500 is first inserted through the guide hole 610 on the plug 600 and connected and fixed to the regeneration piston 400. Then, the regeneration piston 400, together with the plug 600 and the button 500, is installed onto the water circuit board 300 so that the regeneration piston 400 can be inserted into the regeneration chamber 310 and the plug 600 is installed onto the mounting hole 314.
[0112] Please see Figure 4 and Figure 17 In one embodiment, the guide hole 610 includes a connected disc hole section 611 and a column hole section 612. The press plate 510 can be received in the disc hole section 611, and the connecting post 520 is movably inserted through the column hole section 612 and seals with the hole wall of the column hole section 612. On the one hand, by using the sealing fit between the connecting post 520 and the hole wall of the column hole section 612, the sealing effect between the button 500 and the guide hole 610 can be improved while allowing the button 500 to move in the first direction, thereby preventing the problem of liquid in the regeneration chamber 310 leaking out through the guide hole 610. On the other hand, by using the disc hole section 611 to receive the press plate 510, the press plate 510 can move within the disc hole section 611, which reduces the risk of the press plate 510 protruding outside the guide hole 610 and being accidentally pushed.
[0113] Please refer to the following: Figure 3Optionally, in this embodiment, the water softener also includes a button sealing ring 613. The button sealing ring 613 is embedded in the hole wall of the column hole section 612, and the inner circumferential side of the button sealing ring 613 seals against the connecting column 520. Thus, the button sealing ring 613 achieves a sealing effect between the connecting column 520 and the hole wall of the column hole section 612. The structure is simple and easy to implement. Furthermore, the button sealing ring 613 is embedded in the hole wall of the column hole section 612, allowing it to remain stationary relative to the plug 600. This reduces the problem of positional displacement of the button sealing ring 613 after multiple movements with the connecting column 520, which could weaken the sealing effect. Of course, in other embodiments, the button sealing ring 613 may not be included.
[0114] Please see Figure 4 , Figures 13 to 16 In one embodiment, the regeneration piston 400 further includes a second conduit 430 connected to the piston 410 and located on the second side 316. One of the second conduit 430 and the connecting post 520 has a locking protrusion 521, and the other has a locking hole 431. The locking protrusion 521 is secured to the locking hole 431. Thus, by adding the second conduit 430, the length of the connecting post 520 is shortened, and the locking protrusion 521 and the locking hole 431 are used to secure the connecting post 520 and the regeneration piston 400, achieving a simple structure and easy installation. Of course, in other embodiments, the locking protrusion 521 and the locking hole 431 may not be provided; instead, the second conduit 430 and the connecting post 520 may be secured using fasteners such as screws or rivets, or they may be directly welded together. In other embodiments, the second conduit 430 may not be provided, and the connecting post 520 may be directly connected to the piston 410.
[0115] Optionally in this embodiment, the locking protrusion 521 is disposed on the connecting post 520, and the locking hole 431 is disposed on the second conduit 430. Of course, in other embodiments, the locking protrusion 521 may be disposed on the second conduit 430, and the locking hole 431 may be disposed on the connecting post 520.
[0116] It should be noted that in the embodiment where the regeneration piston 400 is provided with a second conduit 430, and the second conduit 430 is provided with a liquid guiding channel 403 and a liquid guiding outlet 405, the second conduit 430 is reused as an installation structure for connecting the button 500. This simplifies the structure of the water softener and reduces its product cost.
[0117] In one embodiment, a locking hole 431 is disposed through the side wall of the liquid guiding channel 403, and a locking protrusion 521 is disposed on the outer surface of the connecting post 520. The end of the connecting post 520 can be inserted into the liquid guiding channel 403 so that the locking protrusion 521 can be locked onto the locking hole 431. The connecting post 520 is provided with an avoidance opening 522 corresponding to the liquid guiding outlet 405. Thus, the structure is simple and easy to implement. Of course, in other embodiments, the connecting post 520 can also be disposed around the outer periphery of the second conduit 430, and the locking protrusion 521 can be disposed on the inner surface of the connecting post 520.
[0118] Please see Figure 14 and Figure 16 Optionally in this embodiment, the liquid outlet 405 penetrates both the end face and the peripheral side of the second conduit 430, and the clearance opening 522 penetrates both the end face and the peripheral side of the connecting post 520. This facilitates the manufacturing of the second conduit 430 and the connecting post 520 to form the liquid outlet 405 and the clearance opening 522.
[0119] Optionally, two liquid outlets 405 and two locking holes 431 are provided, and the liquid outlets 405 and two locking holes 431 are alternately distributed along the circumference of the second conduit 430. It can be understood that two clearance openings 522 and two locking protrusions 521 are also provided on the connecting post 520, and the clearance openings 522 and two locking protrusions 521 are alternately distributed along the circumference of the second conduit 430. In this way, on the one hand, the total flow area of the liquid outlet 405 can be increased, thereby facilitating the outflow of brine from the liquid channel 403 in regeneration mode; on the other hand, the two sets of mating structures formed by the locking protrusions 521 and the locking holes 431 can improve the connection stability and reliability of the connecting post 520 and the second conduit 430. Of course, in other embodiments, only one liquid outlet 405 or one locking hole 431 may be provided, or three or more may be provided.
[0120] This invention also proposes a water softener; please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The water softener includes a resin tank 100, a brine tank 200, and the aforementioned water softener. The specific structure of the water softener is as described in the above embodiments. Since this water softener adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it possesses at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be elaborated upon here. Specifically, the resin tank 100 is provided with a resin chamber 101 and a water inlet 102 communicating with the resin chamber 101; the brine tank 200 is provided with a brine chamber 201 and a brine outlet 202 communicating with the brine chamber 201; the water outlet 303 of the water circuit board 300 is connected to the water inlet 102, and the brine inlet 304 is connected to the brine outlet 202.
[0121] Please see Figures 7 to 10In one embodiment, the water softener further includes a water circuit board 300 disposed at the water inlet 102. The water circuit board 300 is provided with a water passage, a water inlet 307 and a water outlet 308 connected to the water passage. The water inlet 307 is connected to an external water source, and the water outlet 308 is connected to the water inlet 102. The water passage includes a regeneration chamber 310, a water inlet channel 301 and a water outlet channel 306. The water inlet 307 is disposed at the water inlet end of the water inlet channel 301, and the water outlet 308 is disposed at the water outlet end of the water outlet channel 306.
[0122] Please see Figures 7 to 10 In one embodiment, the water circuit board 300 includes a cover 320 and a pipe 330 disposed on the cover 320. The cover opening of the cover 320 faces downward and is connected to the water inlet 102. A water passage is disposed on the pipe 330. The pipe 330 includes an intersecting first pipe segment 331 and a second pipe segment 332. The first pipe segment 331 extends along the length direction of the water inlet 102 and is provided with a water outlet 308. The second pipe segment 332 is provided with a regeneration chamber 310 and a water outlet 303 is formed at the position where it intersects with the first pipe segment 331. On the one hand, by setting the water circuit board 300 as a structure combining a cover 320 and a pipe 330, the structure of the water circuit board 300 is simplified. On the other hand, the first pipe segment 331 allows the water outlet 308 to be arranged in the middle region corresponding to the water inlet 102, which facilitates the more even distribution of raw water to different areas within the resin tank 100, thereby improving the softening rate and effect of the resin tank 100.
[0123] Please see Figure 3 Optionally, in this embodiment, the water softener also includes an upper water distributor 120, which is installed on the inlet 102 by means of bonding, welding, or screw connection. Thus, by using the upper water distributor 120 in conjunction with the first pipe section 331, the raw water can be more evenly distributed to different areas within the resin tank 100, thereby improving the softening rate and effect of the resin tank 100. Of course, in other embodiments, the upper water distributor 120 may not be provided.
[0124] Please see Figure 2 , Figures 8 to 10 In one embodiment, the top wall of the water circuit board 300 is integrally formed into a first pipe section 331, and the side wall of the water circuit board 300 is provided with forming holes corresponding to the first pipe section 331. The water softener also includes a side plug 130, which is installed on the forming holes. This integrally formed structural design reduces the assembly process of the water softener and ensures structural stability and reliability. Of course, in other embodiments, the first pipe section 331 and the water circuit board 300 can be separately formed and then installed as a whole by screw connection or welding.
[0125] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 8Optionally, in this embodiment, the end face of the first pipe segment 331 is spaced apart from the inner side of the water circuit board 300. The side plug 130 has a first plug 131 at its end extending into the water circuit board 300, and the first plug 131 is sealed and inserted into the end face of the first pipe segment 331. In this way, by using the first plug 131 to block the end of the first pipe segment 331 away from the second pipe segment 332, a closed structure is formed, which allows the liquid flowing into the first pipe segment 331 to flow out only through the water outlet 308 located in the middle, so as to promote the liquid to be more evenly distributed to different areas in the resin tank 100. Of course, in other embodiments, the end of the first pipe segment 331 may be connected to the inner side of the water circuit board 300, or the side plug 130 may not have a first plug 131.
[0126] Please see Figure 7 and Figure 8 In one embodiment, the pipe body 330 further includes an intersecting third pipe segment 333 and a fourth pipe segment 334. The third pipe segment 333 intersects with the second pipe segment 332, and a water inlet 302 is formed at the intersection. The fourth pipe segment 334 is provided with a water inlet 307 at the end away from the third pipe segment 333.
[0127] Please refer to the following: Figure 5 and Figure 10 Optionally, in this embodiment, the axis of the fourth pipe segment 334 extends vertically, the axis of the third pipe segment 333 extends horizontally, and the axis of the second pipe segment 332 extends longitudinally. The inner wall of the third pipe segment 333 is provided with multiple water-guiding ribs 335, which are spaced apart circumferentially along the third pipe segment 333 and extend along its axial direction. It is understood that since the third pipe segment 333 and the fourth pipe segment 334 are intersecting, the water flowing from the fourth pipe segment 334 into the third pipe segment 333 needs to undergo a turning motion before flowing from the third pipe segment 333 into the second pipe segment 332. By providing the water-guiding ribs 335, the turning water flow can be rectified, thereby improving the smoothness of the raw water flow and reducing vibration and noise problems caused by water flow impact. Of course, in other embodiments, the water-guiding ribs 335 may not be provided.
[0128] Channel 301 is formed in the third pipe section 333, regeneration chamber 310 is formed in the second pipe section 332, and water outlet channel 306 is formed in the first pipe section 331.
[0129] Please see Figure 2In one embodiment, the resin tank 100 is integrally formed with a water inlet channel 105, which extends vertically and is spaced apart from the resin chamber 101. The lower end of the water inlet channel 105 forms a water inlet 104, and the upper end of the water inlet channel 105 is opposite to and connected to the fourth pipe section 334. Specifically, raw water flows into the water inlet channel 105 from the water inlet 104 and flows upward into the fourth pipe section 334. After changing direction in the third pipe section 333, it flows into the regeneration chamber 310 of the second pipe section 332, then flows into the first pipe section 331 through the water outlet 303, and finally flows to the water inlet 102 through the water outlet 308 in the middle of the first pipe section 331. This simplifies the assembly process of the water softener and improves its production efficiency. Of course, in other embodiments, the water softener may also include a water inlet pipe installed on the resin tank 100, with the water inlet channel 105 formed on the water inlet pipe.
[0130] Optionally in this embodiment, the water inlet channel 105 protrudes at least partially from the outer surface of the resin cavity 101. This reduces the space occupied by the water inlet channel 105 in the resin cavity 101, which helps increase the volume of the resin cavity 101, allowing it to accommodate more resin particles and improving its softening rate and effect. Of course, in other embodiments, the water inlet channel 105 may be completely housed within the inner side of the outer surface of the resin tank 100.
[0131] In one embodiment, the cover 320, the first pipe section 331, the second pipe section 332, the third pipe section 333, and the fourth pipe section 334 are integrally formed. This simplifies the assembly process of the water circuit board 300, improves the production efficiency of the water softener, and makes the structure of the water circuit board 300 more stable and reliable.
[0132] In one embodiment, the edge of the cover 320 is welded and fixed to the edge of the water inlet 102. This results in a simple structure, reliable connection, and helps to shorten the assembly time of the water circuit board 300 and the resin tank 100. Of course, in other embodiments, the cover 320 can also be installed on the water inlet 102 by a snap-fit structure, or the edge of the cover 320 can be glued and fixed to the edge of the water inlet 102.
[0133] In one embodiment, the brine tank 200 is detachably mounted on the water circuit board 300. This allows the brine tank 200 to be removed from the water circuit board 300 for individual cleaning, maintenance, or replacement, thereby improving the ease of use of the water softener. Of course, in other embodiments, the brine tank 200 may also be welded or bonded to the water circuit board 300.
[0134] In one embodiment, one of the water circuit board 300 and the salt tank 200 is provided with a plurality of positioning holes 309 spaced apart, and the other is provided with a positioning post corresponding to the positioning holes 309, with the positioning post inserted into the positioning hole 309. In this way, the structure is simple and easy to implement.
[0135] Please see Figure 7 Optionally, in this embodiment, the axis of the positioning hole 309 extends vertically and is located on the top wall of the water channel plate 300, while the positioning post is located on the bottom wall of the salt tank 200. Multiple positioning holes 309 are provided, with at least two holes spaced apart along the length of the water channel plate 300 and at least two holes spaced apart along the width of the water channel plate 300. Specifically, the positioning post is inserted into the positioning hole 309 from top to bottom, simultaneously completing the positioning and installation of the salt tank 200 and the water channel plate 300. When disassembling the salt tank 200, it is only necessary to lift it. Thus, the structure is simple and facilitates the installation and disassembly of the salt tank 200. Of course, in other embodiments, the salt tank 200 can also be detachably installed with the water channel plate 300 via screw connections or snap-fit connections.
[0136] Please see Figure 20 and Figure 21 In one embodiment, the salt tank 200 is provided with an outlet well 211 and a cover 221 covering the outlet well 211. A salt outlet 202 is located at the outlet well 211. A passage port 222 is provided on the side wall of the cover 221. A passage space 223 is formed between the outer surface of the outlet well 211 and the cover 221, connecting the passage port 222 and the salt outlet 202. Thus, by using the outlet well 211 and the cover 221 in conjunction, large salt particles can be prevented from flowing out of the salt outlet 202 along with the salt solution, thereby reducing the problem of salt blockage in the internal space of the water circuit board 300. Simultaneously, the concentration of the salt solution flowing into the resin tank 100 can be kept stable. Of course, in other embodiments, the outlet well 211 and the cover 221 may not be provided.
[0137] Please refer to the following: Figure 18 and Figure 19In one embodiment, the salt tank 200 includes a tank body 210 and a salt grid 220. The salt grid 220 is disposed inside the tank body 210 to divide the inner cavity of the tank body 210 into a liquid passage 203 and a salt cavity 201 located above the liquid passage 203. The liquid passage 203 communicates with the salt cavity 201 through the grid holes of the salt grid 220 and is connected to a liquid outlet 222. A liquid outlet well 211 is disposed on the bottom wall surface of the tank body 210, and a well cover 221 is formed in the salt grid 220. Specifically, the salt grid 220 is used to divide the inner cavity of the tank body 210 into the liquid passage 203 and the salt cavity 201. Salt blocks are stored in the salt cavity 201. The salt grid 220 can prevent salt blocks from entering the liquid passage 203, thereby playing a pre-filtration role. In this way, the problem of salt blocks entering the liquid passage 203 and clogging the liquid outlet 222, causing difficulty in salt liquid outflow, can be avoided. The structure is simple and easy to implement. Of course, in other embodiments, the salt grid 220 may not be provided.
[0138] Please see Figure 20 In one embodiment, the outlet well 211 includes a first well section 212 and a second well section 213. The first well section 212 is located inside the brine tank 200 and cooperates with the well cover 221, while the second well section 213 is located outside the brine tank 200. The water softener also includes a water circuit board 300 and a connector 700 located on the water circuit board 300. The water circuit board 300 has a water passage cavity and a brine inlet 304. The brine inlet 304 is connected to the water inlet 102 through the water passage cavity. The connector 700 is sealed and inserted into the second well section 213, and connects the brine outlet 202 and the brine inlet 304. Thus, the second well section 213 and the water circuit board 300 are connected through the connector 700, which simplifies the structure of the brine tank 200 and the water circuit board 300, while improving the sealing connection between them. Of course, in other embodiments, the connector 700 may not be provided.
[0139] In related technologies, the outflow rate of the resin tank 100 in the regeneration mode is relatively large, resulting in a short residence time of the brine within the resin tank 100. Consequently, the brine fails to react sufficiently with the resin particles within this short time before flowing away. It can be seen that the reaction between the brine and resin particles within the resin tank 100 in the regeneration mode is insufficient, leading to poor regeneration results.
[0140] For information regarding the poor regeneration effect, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 2 In this embodiment of the invention, optionally, the resin tank 100 is provided with an outlet 103 communicating with the resin chamber 101, and the water softener also includes a flow regulating mechanism 800, which is provided at the outlet 103 to regulate the water flow rate. The flow rate of the flow regulating mechanism 800 in the regeneration mode is less than the flow rate in the water production mode.
[0141] By installing a flow regulating mechanism 800 at the outlet 103 of the resin tank 100, the flow regulating mechanism 800 can reduce the flow rate when the water softener enters the regeneration mode. It can be understood that, under the condition that the total amount of brine flowing into the resin tank 100 is equal, a smaller brine outlet flow rate allows the brine to remain in the resin tank 100 for a longer period, thus giving the brine more time to react with the resin particles and improve the regeneration effect. Secondly, in water production mode, the resin tank 100 can still maintain a high flow rate of softened water, achieving the goal of high throughput in water production mode and high salt efficiency in regeneration mode. This better meets usage needs, reduces the rate of brine consumption, and decreases the frequency of brine replenishment for users.
[0142] It is understood that the flow regulating mechanism 800 in this embodiment of the invention can either actively regulate its flow rate or passively regulate its flow rate.
[0143] For example, in one embodiment, the pressure of the brine flowing into the outlet 103 in regeneration mode is P1, and the pressure of the raw water flowing into the outlet 103 in water purification mode is P2, where P1 < P2. In this embodiment, the flow regulation mechanism 800 is configured as a passive regulation structure, which changes its opening degree due to the difference between the brine pressure and the raw water pressure, thereby changing the water flow rate. Specifically, the raw water pressure is higher in water purification mode, so the flow regulation mechanism 800 has a larger opening degree and a larger water flow rate; the brine pressure is lower in regeneration mode, so the flow regulation mechanism 800 has a smaller opening degree and a smaller water flow rate. This saves on the electrical control structure and wiring of the flow regulation mechanism 800, thereby reducing the product cost of the water softener and helping to reduce the electrical failure rate of the water softener.
[0144] It should be noted that the pressure of the brine does not specifically refer to the liquid flowing into the outlet 103 being only brine, but rather indicates that the source of this pressure is the brine flowing from the brine tank 200 into the resin tank 100. Similarly, the pressure of the raw water does not specifically refer to the liquid flowing into the outlet 103 being raw water. It can be understood that the liquid flowing into the outlet 103 at this time should be softened water after softening. Here, the pressure of the raw water also refers to the source of this pressure being the raw water flowing into the resin tank 100 from the inlet 104.
[0145] Of course, in other embodiments, the flow regulating mechanism 800 can also be configured as an active regulating mechanism. For example, in another embodiment, the flow regulating mechanism 800 is configured as a flow regulating valve with adjustable opening, specifically a solenoid valve, etc. The flow regulating valve is electrically connected to the control circuit board of the water softener, and thus can be controlled by the electrical signals of the control circuit board. When the water softener switches between water production mode and regeneration mode, the flow regulating valve can be controlled in a timely manner by the control circuit board to regulate the flow rate.
[0146] In another embodiment, the outlet 103 includes a main outlet 103 and a secondary outlet 103 that are independent of each other. The flow regulating mechanism 800 includes a sealing member movably disposed in the resin tank 100. The sealing member selectively seals the main outlet 103 and the secondary outlet 103. The flow cross-sectional area of the main outlet 103 is larger than that of the secondary outlet 103. The main outlet 103 is sealed by the sealing member in the regeneration mode. That is, the main outlet 103 with a large flow rate corresponds to the water production mode being activated, and the secondary outlet 103 with a small flow rate corresponds to the regeneration mode being activated. In this way, the sealing of the main outlet 103 and the secondary outlet 103 is completed by switching the position of the sealing member, which is simple in structure and easy to implement.
[0147] The blocking component can be switched in position either electrically or manually. For example, the flow regulating mechanism 800 also includes a driving component that drives the blocking component. The driving component includes, but is not limited to, a motor, a pneumatic cylinder, or a hydraulic cylinder. Under the action of the driving component, the blocking component can move and selectively block the main outlet 103 and the auxiliary outlet 103. The displacement trajectory of the blocking component can be set according to the arrangement of the main outlet 103 and the auxiliary outlet 103. For example, if the main outlet 103 and the auxiliary outlet 103 are distributed in a straight line, the blocking component can move linearly between the main outlet 103 and the auxiliary outlet 103 in a straight line and selectively cover the main outlet 103 and the auxiliary outlet 103.
[0148] The brine tank 200 is stacked on top of the resin tank 100. The hydrostatic pressure corresponding to the height difference between the brine level in the brine tank 200 and the outlet 103 of the resin tank 100 is approximately equal to the hydrostatic pressure P1 of the brine flowing into the outlet 103 during regeneration mode. It's understandable that point-of-use water softeners are typically small in size to save space in the home; that is, the overall height of the water softener is not very high. The inlet 104 of the resin tank 100 is usually connected to an external water source, such as tap water. Therefore, the raw water pressure flowing into the outlet 103 during water purification mode is approximately equal to the tap water pressure, resulting in a relatively high pressure. Consequently, the hydrostatic pressure from the brine level in the brine tank 200 to the outlet 103, i.e., the hydrostatic pressure P1, will have a significant difference from the raw water pressure P2, which helps improve the response accuracy of the flow regulation mechanism 800.
[0149] Please refer to the following: Figure 22 and Figure 23 ,in, Figure 22The arrows indicate the direction of water flow. In one embodiment, optionally, the flow regulating mechanism 800 includes a mounting base 801 and a check valve 802. The mounting base 801 is provided with a main flow channel 803 and a branch flow channel 804. The water flow rate of the main flow channel 803 is greater than the water flow rate of the branch flow channel 804. The check valve 802 is located in the main flow channel 803, wherein the static water pressure corresponding to the highest water level in the brine tank 200 is less than the minimum opening pressure of the check valve 802. The check valve 802 blocks the main flow channel 803 in regeneration mode and opens the main flow channel 803 in water production mode. The branch flow channel 804 is open in both regeneration mode and water production mode.
[0150] In this embodiment, the static water pressure corresponding to the highest water level in the brine tank 200 refers to the static water pressure from the brine surface to the outlet 103 of the resin tank 100 when the brine level in the brine tank 200 reaches its highest level. That is, in regeneration mode, even if the brine in the brine tank 200 reaches its highest water level, it cannot cause the check valve 802 to open, thus preventing the main flow channel 803 containing the check valve 802 from being open, and the liquid in the resin tank 100 can only flow out through the small-flow branch channel 804. However, in water production mode, because the raw water pressure flowing into the resin tank 100 through the inlet 104 is high and greater than the minimum opening pressure of the check valve 802, the raw water pressure P2 is sufficient to cause the check valve 802 to open, allowing the soft water produced in the resin tank 100 to flow out simultaneously through both the large-flow main flow channel 803 and the small-flow branch channel 804, thereby meeting the demand for a large-flow supply of soft water.
[0151] For example, in one embodiment, the minimum opening pressure of the check valve 802 can be set to 4 kPa, which roughly corresponds to the hydrostatic pressure of a water column 40 cm high. The height difference between the highest water level in the brine tank 200 and the outlet 103 is set to be less than 40 cm, or the overall height of the water softener can be set to be less than 40 cm. Thus, in water production mode, the high inlet pressure allows the liquid in the resin tank 100 to easily push and open the check valve 802, enabling water to exit simultaneously through both the main channel 803 and the branch channel 804, achieving unrestricted soft water output. In regeneration mode, the brine in the brine tank 200 flows into the resin tank 100 by gravity to regenerate with the resin particles. The liquid in the resin tank 100 is insufficient to open the check valve 802, which remains closed. The wastewater after regeneration can only flow out through the branch channel 804, achieving flow restriction for the regenerated wastewater output.
[0152] Thus, this embodiment has a simple structure and is easy to implement. By cleverly utilizing the relationship between the minimum opening pressure of the check valve 802 and the maximum water level of the brine tank 200, it is possible to achieve the characteristics of unlimited soft water outflow under high pressure inlet during water production mode operation and limited wastewater outflow under gravity conveying during regeneration mode operation, thereby better meeting the equipment's requirements for high throughput and high salt efficiency.
[0153] Of course, in other embodiments, the brine in the salt tank 200 may not flow into the resin tank 100 by gravity. For example, a water pump can be installed at the brine outlet 202 of the salt tank 200 to pump the brine into the resin tank 100. In this case, the pumping pressure of the water pump can be set to be less than the original water pressure, so as to meet the requirement that the brine pressure P1 is less than the original water pressure P2, so that the flow regulating mechanism 800 can passively adjust its flow rate according to the water pressure.
[0154] It is understandable that the main channel 803 and the branch channel 804 have various structural forms; for example, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 22 to 24 In one embodiment, optionally, the inner wall of the main channel 803 is recessed to form a branch channel 804. That is, the branch channel 804 is connected to the peripheral sidewall of the main channel 803. In this way, the structure of the mounting base 801 can be made more compact, which is conducive to the miniaturization design of the flow regulating mechanism 800, and thus helps to reduce the size and volume of the water softener.
[0155] Of course, in other embodiments, the branch channel 804 and the main channel 803 may be spaced apart. For example, the mounting base 801 may have a branch channel 804 and a main channel 803 spaced apart, wherein the branch channel 804 and the main channel 803 may extend in the same direction or may have different extension directions.
[0156] Please see Figure 22 and Figure 23 In embodiments where a branch channel 804 is formed by a recess in the inner wall of the main channel 803, the branch channel 804 may optionally extend in the same direction as the main channel 803. For example, when the main channel 803 is configured as a through-hole structure with its axis extending vertically, the axis of the branch channel 804 also extends vertically. This improves the smoothness of liquid flow in the main channel 803 and the branch channel 804, preventing interference between the two streams of liquid flowing through them, thereby improving the smoothness and stability of the water softener's output. Furthermore, it simplifies the structure of the mounting base 801 and reduces its manufacturing cost. Of course, in other embodiments, the branch channel 804 may extend along a three-dimensional spiral line on the inner wall of the main channel 803.
[0157] Please refer to the following: Figure 24In one embodiment, at least two branch channels 804 are provided, and the at least two branch channels 804 are distributed at intervals on the outer periphery of the main channel 803. Specifically, optionally, two branch channels 804 are provided. It can be understood that when the branch channel 804 is formed by recesses in the inner wall surface of the main channel 803, it is equivalent to forming a branch channel 804 at multiple circumferential locations on the inner wall surface of the main channel 803. In this way, in regeneration mode, when the liquid in the resin tank 100 flows out through multiple branch channels 804, the problem of the check valve 802 shaking due to water flow impact in the main channel 803 can be avoided, thereby improving the installation stability and reliability of the check valve 802 and reducing the risk of abnormal noise caused by structural shaking. Of course, in other embodiments, only one branch channel 804 may be provided.
[0158] It is understood that the check valve 802 has various structural forms; for example, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 22 and Figure 23 In one embodiment, optionally, the check valve 802 includes a valve seat 810, a valve plug 820, and an elastic element 830. The valve seat 810 is sealed to the inner wall of the main flow channel 803 and has a flow cavity 814 connecting the inlet and outlet of the main flow channel 803. The valve plug 820 is movably disposed in the flow cavity 814, and the elastic element 830 connects the valve plug 820 and the valve seat 810. Specifically, in the water production mode, the raw water pressure is sufficient to overcome the elastic force applied to the valve plug 820 by the elastic element 830, so that the valve plug 820 can move from the position of blocking the flow cavity 814 to the position of opening the flow cavity 814, thereby allowing the inlet and outlet of the main flow channel 803 to be interconnected through the flow cavity 814. In regeneration mode, the hydraulic pressure of the brine is insufficient to overcome the elastic force exerted by the elastic element 830 on the valve plug 820. The valve plug 820 remains in the position of blocking the flow cavity 814. Therefore, the inlet and outlet ends of the main flow channel 803 cannot be connected to each other through the flow cavity 814. Thus, the structure is simple and easy to implement.
[0159] Of course, in other embodiments, the check valve 802 can also be configured in other structural forms, as long as it can meet the goal of high pressure without flow restriction and low pressure with flow restriction.
[0160] It is understandable that the elastic force exerted by the elastic element 830 on the valve plug 820 can keep the valve plug 820 in a state of blocking the flow chamber 814. That is, the minimum opening pressure of the check valve 802 is related to the structural performance of the elastic element 830. The minimum opening pressure of the check valve 802 can be changed by selecting existing check valve 802 products on the market, or by directly replacing or adjusting the elastic element 830 of existing products, so that the minimum opening pressure of the check valve 802 can be adapted to different water softener products. For example, for water softener products with a larger overall height and a higher maximum water level in the brine tank 200, a check valve 802 with a higher minimum opening pressure needs to be selected; for water softener products with a smaller overall height and a lower maximum water level in the brine tank 200, a check valve 802 with a lower minimum opening pressure can be selected.
[0161] Please see Figure 22 and Figure 23 In one embodiment, the check valve 802 may optionally include a third sealing ring 840 fitted onto the outer peripheral surface of the valve seat 810. The outer peripheral surface of the third sealing ring 840 abuts against the inner wall surface of the main flow channel 803. The inner wall surface of the main flow channel 803 is recessed to form a branch flow channel 804, and the wall surface of the branch flow channel 804 is at least partially spaced from the third sealing ring 840. Thus, the third sealing ring 840 improves the sealing fit between the valve seat 810 and the inner wall surface of the main flow channel 803. It is understood that with the third sealing ring 840 present, since the branch flow channel 804 is directly formed on the inner wall surface of the main flow channel 803, it is necessary to avoid the third sealing ring 840 being completely embedded in the branch flow channel 804. The structure of the third sealing ring 840 completely blocks the branch flow channel 804, thereby ensuring that the flow regulating mechanism 800 still has a certain effective flow cross-sectional area in the regeneration mode. Of course, in other embodiments, the third sealing ring 840 may not be provided.
[0162] In this embodiment, the problem of the third sealing ring 840 being completely embedded in the branch channel 804 can be avoided by selecting the third sealing ring 840 and designing the structure of the main channel 803 and the branch channel 804. For example, a relief ring groove is formed on the wall surface of the branch channel 804 corresponding to the third sealing ring 840. The width of the relief ring groove is greater than the thickness of the third sealing ring 840, and the outer diameter of the relief ring groove is 1.1 to 1.5 times the outer diameter of the third sealing ring 840.
[0163] Please see Figure 23In one embodiment, optionally, the valve seat 810 includes a first ring body 811, a second ring body 812, and a plurality of connecting ribs 813 connecting the first ring body 811 and the second ring body 812. The plurality of connecting ribs 813 are distributed circumferentially along the first ring body 811, and a cavity outlet of a flow cavity 814 is formed between two adjacent connecting ribs 813. The inner cavity of the first ring body 811 is configured as the cavity inlet of the flow cavity 814, and the valve plug 820 is movably disposed on the first ring body 811.
[0164] Specifically, the first ring 811 and the second ring 812 are spaced apart along the extending direction of the connecting rib 813, and the first ring 811, the second ring 812, and the connecting rib 813 together define the outlet of the flow cavity 814. When the valve plug 820 is sealed and inserted into the inner cavity of the first ring 811, the flow cavity 814 is blocked and not conductive; when the valve plug 820 is removed from the first ring 811, the inlet and outlet of the flow cavity 814 are connected, and the flow cavity 814 can connect the inlet and outlet of the main flow channel 803. In this way, the structure is simple and easy to implement, and the ends of the multiple connecting ribs 813 that are away from the first ring 811 can be connected into one unit through the second ring 812 to improve the structural stability of the connecting ribs 813.
[0165] Of course, in other embodiments, the valve seat 810 can also be configured in other structural forms, for example, only the first ring body 811 and multiple connecting ribs 813 are provided.
[0166] To improve the smoothness and stability of valve plug 820's displacement, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figure 22 and Figure 23 In one embodiment, optionally, the valve plug 820 includes a second plug head 821 and a guide rod 822 connected to each other. The guide rod 822 is slidably disposed on the second ring body 812, and the second plug head 821 is slidably disposed on the first ring body 811. Thus, in this embodiment, the second ring body 812 also serves as a guide, with the guide rod 822 cooperating with the second ring body 812 and the second plug head 821 cooperating with the first ring body 811, jointly improving the smoothness and stability of the valve plug 820's displacement. Of course, in other embodiments, the guide rod 822 may not be provided.
[0167] Please see Figure 22 and Figure 23 In one embodiment, the valve plug 820 may optionally include a fourth sealing ring 823 fitted onto the outer peripheral surface of the second plug head 821, with the outer peripheral surface of the fourth sealing ring 823 abutting against the inner cavity surface of the first ring body 811. Thus, the fourth sealing ring 823 enhances the sealing fit between the second plug head 821 and the first ring body 811, and the structure is simple and easy to implement. Of course, in other embodiments, the fourth sealing ring 823 may not be provided.
[0168] Please see Figure 22 and Figure 23 In one embodiment, optionally, the elastic element 830 is disposed around the outer periphery of the guide rod 822 and connected between the second plug 821 and the second ring 812. Specifically, during the process of the second plug 821 disengaging from the first ring 811, the elastic element 830 is compressed and its deformation increases. When the water inlet pressure of the second plug 821 decreases, the force of the elastic element 830 can push the second plug 821 to re-insert into the first ring 811, thereby sealing the flow cavity 814. Thus, the elastic element 830 surrounding the outer periphery of the guide rod 822 can improve the smoothness of the valve plug 820 displacement, and only one elastic element 830 is needed to achieve this, making the structure simple and easy to implement. Of course, in other embodiments, multiple elastic elements 830 can also be provided, with multiple elastic elements 830 distributed around the outer periphery of the guide rod 822.
[0169] Optionally, in this embodiment, the elastic element 830 is configured as a compression spring. This results in a mature, reliable, and low-cost structure. Of course, in other embodiments, the elastic element 830 can also be a tension spring, or a rubber or silicone body.
[0170] Please see Figure 22 and Figure 23 In one embodiment, optionally, the mounting base 801 includes a mounting portion 851 and a connector portion 852 connected together. A check valve 802 is disposed on the mounting portion 851, and the connector portion 852 is provided with a threaded structure 853. That is, the flow regulating mechanism 800 also functions as a connector, with its connector portion 852 exposed on the outside of the water softener for connection to external structures such as three-way valves, faucets, or water pipes. The threaded structure 853 can be either an external thread or an internal thread. For example, in this embodiment, optionally, the threaded structure 853 is configured as an external thread on the outer circumferential surface of the connector portion 852. Of course, in other embodiments, the connector portion 852 may not be provided.
[0171] The above description is merely an exemplary embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the present invention's specification and drawings under the technical concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A water softener, characterized in that, include: A resin tank is provided with a resin chamber and a water inlet communicating with the resin chamber; and A salt tank is located above the resin tank and has a salt solution outlet connected to the water inlet. The salt solution in the salt tank flows into the resin tank by gravity. The water inlet is located on the top surface of the resin tank. The water softener also includes a water circuit board located at the water inlet and below the salt tank. The water circuit board has a water passage cavity, and the salt solution outlet is connected to the water inlet through the water passage cavity. The water passage includes a regeneration chamber, an inlet channel and an outlet channel respectively connected to the regeneration chamber. The wall of the regeneration chamber is provided with a brine inlet connected to the brine outlet. The inlet channel is connected to an external water source, and the outlet channel is connected to the inlet. The water softener also includes a regeneration piston, which is movably disposed in the regeneration chamber to switch between regeneration mode and water production mode. In the water production mode, the water inlet channel is connected to the water outlet channel, and the brine inlet is isolated from the water outlet channel; In the regeneration mode, the brine inlet is connected to the water outlet channel, and the water inlet channel is separated from the water outlet channel; The regeneration chamber wall is further provided with a water inlet and a water outlet. The water inlet is connected to the water inlet channel, and the water outlet is connected to the water outlet channel. The regeneration piston is provided with a liquid guiding channel, a liquid guiding inlet and a liquid guiding outlet connected to the liquid guiding channel. The liquid guiding inlet is connected to the brine inlet, and the liquid guiding outlet is connected to the water outlet. In the water production mode, the liquid guiding inlet and / or the liquid guiding outlet are isolated. In the regeneration mode, the liquid guiding inlet and the liquid guiding outlet are connected.
2. The water softener as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The water inlet channel and the water outlet channel extend in the same direction and are located on opposite sides of the regeneration chamber.
3. The water softener as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The regeneration piston moves along a first direction and includes a piston and a first conduit. The first conduit is connected to the side of the piston near the brine inlet. The liquid channel is at least partially formed in the piston and the first conduit. The regeneration chamber includes a piston chamber and a conduit chamber that are connected. The piston chamber has a water inlet and a water outlet on its wall. The conduit chamber has a brine inlet on its wall. The piston is located in the piston chamber. The first conduit has the liquid inlet at its end that extends into the conduit chamber.
4. The water softener as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The end face of the first conduit is closed. The liquid inlet is located on the side wall of the first conduit, and the saline inlet is located on the side wall of the conduit chamber. In the water production mode, the liquid inlet and the saline inlet are staggered in the first direction. In the regeneration mode, the liquid inlet and the saline inlet overlap in at least a portion of the first direction.
5. The water softener as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The regeneration piston also includes a second conduit connected to the side of the piston away from the brine inlet and having a liquid outlet. The liquid channel is partially formed in the second conduit, and the liquid outlet is connected to the water outlet in both the water production mode and the regeneration mode.
6. The water softener as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The water softener also includes a button connected to the regeneration piston, the button being at least partially exposed on the exterior of the water circuit board.
7. The water softener as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The water circuit board has an installation hole that connects to the regeneration chamber. The water softener also includes a plug in the installation hole. The plug has a guide hole that connects to the regeneration chamber. The button includes a pressing plate and a connecting post connected together. The end of the connecting post away from the pressing plate passes through the guide hole and is connected to the regeneration piston.
8. The water softener as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The regeneration piston can switch from the regeneration mode to the water production mode after being subjected to the inlet pressure of an external water source.
9. The water softener as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The regeneration chamber extends along a first direction, the regeneration piston includes a piston that moves along the first direction, the water inlet and the water outlet are staggered in the first direction, and the regeneration chamber has a first side and a second side respectively disposed on opposite sides of the piston, with the water inlet located on the first side; In the water production mode, the water outlet is at least partially exposed on the first side, the water outlet is connected to the water inlet, and is separated from the brine inlet; In the regeneration mode, the water outlet is at least partially exposed on the second side, and the water outlet is connected to and separated from the brine inlet.
10. The water softener as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The salt tank is detachably mounted on the water circuit board.
11. The water softener as described in claim 10, characterized in that, One of the water circuit board and the salt tank is provided with a plurality of positioning holes at intervals, and the other is provided with a positioning post corresponding to the positioning holes, the positioning post being inserted into the positioning holes.
12. The water softener as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The salt tank is provided with a liquid outlet well and a well cover covering the liquid outlet well. The salt outlet is located at the liquid outlet well. The side wall of the well cover is provided with a liquid passage port. The outer surface of the liquid outlet well and the well cover form a liquid passage space, which connects the liquid passage port and the salt outlet.
13. The water softener as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The salt tank includes a tank body and a salt grid. The salt grid is disposed in the tank body to divide the inner cavity of the tank body into a liquid passage and a salt cavity located above the liquid passage. The liquid passage communicates with the salt cavity through the grid holes of the salt grid and also communicates with the liquid outlet. The liquid outlet well is disposed on the bottom wall surface of the tank body, and the well cover is formed on the salt grid.
14. The water softener as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The outlet well includes a first well section and a second well section. The first well section is located inside the brine tank and cooperates with the well cover. The second well section is located outside the brine tank. The water softener also includes a water circuit board and a transition seat located on the water circuit board. The water circuit board has a water passage cavity and a brine inlet. The brine inlet is connected to the water inlet through the water passage cavity. The transition seat is sealed and inserted into the second well section and connects the brine outlet and the brine inlet.
15. The water softener as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The resin tank is provided with an outlet that connects to the resin chamber. The water softener also includes a flow regulating mechanism, which is located at the outlet to regulate the water flow rate. The flow rate of the flow regulating mechanism in regeneration mode is less than the flow rate in water production mode.
16. The water softener as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The flow regulation mechanism includes: The mounting base includes a main flow channel and branch flow channels, wherein the flow rate of the main flow channel is greater than the flow rate of the branch flow channels; and A check valve is installed in the main flow channel, where the static water pressure corresponding to the highest water level in the salt tank is less than the minimum opening pressure of the check valve. The check valve blocks the main flow channel in the regeneration mode, and opens the main flow channel in the water production mode. The tributary channel is open in both the regeneration mode and the water production mode.
17. The water softener as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The inner wall of the main channel is recessed to form the branch channel.
18. The water softener as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The check valve includes a valve seat, a valve plug, and an elastic element. The valve seat is sealed to the inner wall of the main channel and has a flow cavity that connects the inlet and outlet of the main channel. The valve plug is movably disposed in the flow cavity, and the elastic element connects the valve plug and the valve seat.