Water heater

Abstract

The invention discloses a water heater, and relates to the technical field of water heaters. The water heater comprises a water tank, a heater, a heat exchanger, a water supplementing pipe and a water supplementing valve set, and the heater is used for heating water in the water tank; the inlet end of the water flow channel is connected with a water inlet pipe, and the outlet end of the water flow channel is connected with a water outlet pipe; the water supplementing pipe is communicated with the water inlet pipe and the water tank and used for supplementing water to the water tank; the water supplementing valve set is installed on the water supplementing pipe and comprises a control valve module and a one-way valve module, the control valve module is used for controlling on-off of the water supplementing pipe, and the one-way valve module is arranged to be in one-way connection from the water inlet pipe to the water tank. According to the technical scheme, the reliability of the water supplementing mode of the water heater can be improved, and water mixing is prevented.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of water heaters, and particularly relates to a water heater. Background Art

[0002] With the improvement of people's living standards, the heat exchange type electric water heater that can realize the application of live water heating is more and more popular among people. In the heat exchange type electric water heater, the water use waterway is not in direct contact with the water stored in the inner tank, which can improve the water use quality.

[0003] During the use of the heat exchange type electric water heater, part of the water vapor generated by heating the water in the inner tank will be discharged correspondingly, so the water in the inner tank will be consumed, and the situation of insufficient water level in the inner tank may occur. In the related art, a water supply pipeline is set to supply water to the inner tank to ensure the water level in the inner tank. However, the water supply valve in the related art is usually controlled by a single valve plate for on-off, and there are problems of poor reliability and easy water cross-flow. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main object of the present invention is to propose a water heater, aiming to improve the reliability of the water supply mode of the water heater and prevent water cross-flow.

[0005] To achieve the above object, the water heater proposed by the present invention includes: A water tank; A heater for heating the water in the water tank; A heat exchanger having a water use flow channel for heat exchange with the water in the water tank. The inlet end of the water use flow channel is connected to a water inlet pipe, and the outlet end of the water use flow channel is used to connect to a water outlet pipe; A water supply pipe configured to communicate the water inlet pipe with the water tank for supplying water to the water tank; and A water supply valve group installed on the water supply pipe. The water supply valve group includes a control valve module and a check valve module. The control valve module is used to control the on-off of the water supply pipe, and the check valve module is configured to conduct unidirectionally from the water inlet pipe to the water tank.

[0006] In an embodiment of the present application, the heat exchanger is externally disposed relative to the water tank. The heat exchanger is provided with a heat exchange flow channel communicating with the water tank to form a circulation loop, and the heat exchange flow channel is configured to exchange heat with the water use flow channel; The water heater further includes a driving component configured to drive the water in the circulation loop to circulate; One end of the water supply pipe is connected to the water inlet pipe, and the other end is connected to the circulation loop.

[0007] In an embodiment of the present application, the water heater has a water use mode and a water supply mode: In the water usage mode, the control valve module is closed, the heater and the driving component are turned on, and the water flowing out of the water tank flows back into the water tank after heat exchange through the heat exchange flow channel; the water in the water inlet pipe flows into the water outlet pipe after heat exchange through the water usage flow channel. In the water replenishment mode, the outlet end of the water outlet pipe is closed, the control valve module is opened, and the water in the water inlet pipe flows into the water tank through the water replenishment pipe and the circulation loop.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present application, the driving component is arranged on the downstream side of the heat exchange flow channel, and the outlet end of the water replenishment pipe is connected to the upstream side of the driving component. In the water usage mode, the water in the water tank sequentially passes through the heat exchange flow channel and the driving component and then flows back into the water tank. In the water replenishment mode, the water in the water inlet pipe flows into the water tank through the water replenishment pipe and the driving component.

[0009] In an embodiment of the present application, the heater is externally arranged outside the water tank and is located on the upstream side of the heat exchange flow channel, and the outlet end of the water replenishment pipe is connected to the upstream side of the heater. In the water usage mode, the water in the water tank sequentially passes through the heater, the heat exchange flow channel, and the driving component and then flows back into the water tank. In the water replenishment mode, the water in the water inlet pipe flows into the water tank through the water replenishment pipe, the heater, the heat exchange flow channel, and the driving component.

[0010] In an embodiment of the present application, the heater is turned on in the water replenishment mode.

[0011] In an embodiment of the present application, a water inlet assembly and a water outlet assembly are arranged in the water tank. The water inlet assembly is located in the upper region of the water tank, and the water outlet assembly is located in the lower region of the water tank. The heat exchanger is arranged on the outer side of the water tank; in the height direction, the heat exchanger is located between the water inlet assembly and the water outlet assembly. The inlet end of the heat exchange flow channel is located at the lower part of the heat exchanger, and the outlet end of the heat exchange flow channel is located at the upper part of the heat exchanger.

[0012] In an embodiment of the present application, the water replenishment valve group further includes a valve body connected in series on the water replenishment pipe. The control valve module and the one-way valve module are both arranged on the valve body, and among them, the one-way valve module is arranged on the downstream side of the control valve module.

[0013] In an embodiment of the present application, the valve body includes: A pipe body, provided with a water inlet end, a water outlet end, and a flow channel cavity communicating the water inlet end and the water outlet end; and A partition structure is a cylindrical structure disposed in the pipe body, and divides the flow channel cavity into a first flow channel, a transition flow channel and a second flow channel; a first valve port connecting the first flow channel and the transition flow channel is disposed at an end of the partition structure, and a water outlet connecting the transition flow channel and the second flow channel is disposed on a side wall of the partition structure; The control valve module is installed on the pipe body and is used to open or block the first valve port. The one-way valve module is installed in the second flow channel.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present application, the partition structure is extended in a direction forming an angle with the axial direction of the tube body, an end of the partition structure away from the first valve port is connected to the inner wall surface of the tube body, and an end of the partition structure where the first valve port is provided passes through the outer wall of the tube body; A mounting seat is provided at a position of the outer wall of the tube body corresponding to the first valve port, and the mounting seat is provided with a mounting cavity connecting the transition flow channel and the first flow channel. The control valve module is installed on the mounting seat and seals the mounting cavity. The control valve core of the control valve module slides in the mounting cavity to block or open the first valve port.

[0015] In the water heater of the technical solution of the present invention, a water replenishment valve group is arranged on the water replenishment pipe of the heat exchanger, and the water replenishment valve group includes a control valve module and a one-way valve module. The control valve module is used to control the on-off of the water replenishment pipe, and the one-way valve module is configured to be unidirectional from the water inlet pipe to the water tank. The control valve module and the one-way valve module form a double seal, which ensures unidirectional water flow in the water replenishment mode of the water heater, and blocks forward leakage and reverse backflow at the same time in the non-water replenishment state, thereby eliminating the risk of water tank water flowing into the water use flow path, and improving the reliability of the water replenishment mode of the water heater. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without paying creative work.

[0017] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the water use mode structure of an embodiment of the water heater of the present invention in which the heat exchanger is built into the water tank; Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of the water replenishment mode structure of the embodiment of the water heater of the present invention in which the heat exchanger is built into the water tank; Figure 3 It is a structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the water heater of the present invention in which the heat exchanger is externally arranged in the water tank; Figure 4Schematic diagram of the water usage mode of the embodiment where the heat exchanger in the water heater of the present invention is externally disposed outside the water tank; Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the water replenishment mode of the embodiment where the heat exchanger in the water heater of the present invention is externally disposed outside the water tank; Figure 6 Schematic diagram of an embodiment of the water replenishment valve group in the water heater of the present invention; Figure 7 Plan sectional view of the water replenishment valve group in the water heater of the present invention; Figure 8 Three - dimensional sectional view of the water replenishment valve group in the water heater of the present invention; Figure 9 Schematic diagram of the structure of the valve body in the embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 Sectional view of the valve body in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Explanation of the reference numerals in the attached drawings:

[0019] The realization of the object, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further described with reference to the embodiments and the attached drawings. Detailed implementation manners

[0020] Next, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described with reference to the attached drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, rather than all the embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative efforts shall fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0021] It should be noted that if there are directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back,...) involved in the embodiments of the present invention, the directional indications are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement conditions between components in a specific posture (as shown in the attached drawings). If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0022] At the same time, the meaning of "and / or" or "and / or" appearing throughout the text is that it includes three scenarios. Taking "A and / or B" as an example, it includes the scenario of A, or the scenario of B, or the scenario where A and B are satisfied simultaneously.

[0023] In addition, if the descriptions such as "first" and "second" are involved in the embodiments of the present invention, these descriptions of "first", "second", etc. are only for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, the features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In addition, the technical solutions between various embodiments may be combined with each other, but it must be based on the fact that those of ordinary skill in the art can implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the protection scope required by the present invention.

[0024] Traditionally, in a storage water heater, the water in the inner tank is usually heated by a heater and directly supplied to users for use. This method has problems such as a large volume of the inner tank occupying a lot of space and being prone to bacterial growth. To solve these problems, an exchange heat type electric water heater has emerged. It enables the water use water path and the inner tank water to exchange heat without direct contact by setting a heat exchanger with an independent flow path, and can realize the application of live water heating, effectively improving the water use quality.

[0025] During the use of the exchange heat type electric water heater, a part of the water vapor generated by heating the water in the inner tank will be discharged accordingly, so the water in the inner tank will be consumed, and the situation of insufficient water level in the inner tank may occur. In the related art, a water replenishing pipeline is set to replenish water into the inner tank to ensure the water level in the inner tank. However, the water replenishing valve in the related art is usually controlled by a single valve plate for on-off, and there is a problem of poor reliability. During the water replenishing process, the phenomenon of reverse water flow and cross-flow is likely to occur, that is, the water in the water tank may flow back into the water use water path through the water replenishing pipeline. This not only affects the water replenishing effect but also may pollute the water quality of the water use water path.

[0026] For this reason, the present invention proposes a water heater 100. By setting a water replenishing valve group 1 on the water replenishing pipe 4 of the water heater 100, when the water heater is in the water replenishing mode, the water replenishing valve group 1 can open the water replenishing pipe 4, enabling the water replenishing pipe 4 to smoothly replenish water into the water tank 2, and at the same time having an anti-backflow function to prevent the water in the water tank 2 from flowing back in reverse. It can be understood that the water heater in this embodiment is not limited to a certain specific type of water heater. For example, it can be an exchange heat type water heater with internal heat exchange in the water tank 2, or an exchange heat type water heater with external heat exchange in the water tank 2, or a water heater with a heater inside the water tank 2, or a water heater with a heater outside the water tank 2, etc. The structure of the water heater 100 will be described below in the form of embodiments.

[0027] Please refer to Figures 1 to 5, the water heater 100 includes a water tank 2, a heater 3, a heat exchanger 5, a make-up water pipe 4, and a make-up water valve group 1. The heater 3 is used to heat the water in the water tank 2; the heat exchanger 5 has a water flow channel 502 for heat exchange with the water in the water tank 2. The inlet end of the water flow channel 502 is connected to the inlet pipe 81, and the outlet end of the water flow channel 502 is used to connect to the outlet pipe 82; the make-up water pipe 4 is configured to communicate the inlet pipe 81 with the water tank 2 for making up water to the water tank 2; the make-up water valve group 1 is installed on the make-up water pipe 4. The make-up water valve group 1 includes a control valve module 12 and a check valve module 13. The control valve module 12 is used to control the on-off of the make-up water pipe 4, and the check valve module 13 is configured to conduct unidirectionally from the inlet pipe 81 to the water tank 2.

[0028] In this embodiment, the water tank 2 serves as a water storage container, and the water is heated by the heater 3. The water flow channel 502 of the heat exchanger 5 is used for heat exchange with the water in the water tank 2. The inlet end of the water flow channel 502 is connected to the inlet pipe 81 (the inlet pipe 81 can be used to connect to the water supply pipe so that cold water flows into the water flow channel 502), and the outlet end of the water flow channel 502 is used to connect to the outlet pipe 82 (the outlet pipe 82 can be connected to the water using terminal). Thus, in the water usage mode, after the cold water flows into the water flow channel 502 through the inlet pipe 81 for heat exchange, it flows out from the outlet pipe 82 to the water using terminal for the user to use, realizing the function of heating and using live water.

[0029] The make-up water pipe 4 communicates the inlet pipe 81 with the water tank 2 to form a make-up water path. By integrating the make-up water valve group 1 with the control valve module 12 and the check valve module 13 on the make-up water pipe 4 of the water heater, the make-up water valve group 1 ensures that the water flow flows unidirectionally from the inlet pipe 81 into the water tank 2 during make-up water, and also prevents the water in the water tank 2 from flowing reversely into the inlet pipe 81 or the water flow channel 502 due to pressure changes in the non-make-up water state. Specifically, during the make-up water process, the control valve module 12 is opened, and the water flow in the make-up water pipe 4 passes through the check valve module 13. The check valve module 13 is opened under the action of water pressure, allowing the water flow to pass unidirectionally and flow out into the water tank 2 to achieve the make-up water operation; when the make-up water stops, the control valve module 12 is closed to block the water flow. At this time, the check valve module 13 will automatically close to prevent the water flow from flowing reversely, thereby preventing the water in the water tank 2 from flowing back into the inlet pipe 81 or the water flow channel.

[0030] It can be understood that the control valve module 12 can be implemented by an electromagnetic valve, an electric valve, or a mechanically driven valve. During the normal water usage process of the water heater, the make-up water mode is not turned on, and the control valve module 12 is in a closed state. When the water using end of the water heater is closed and the water tank 2 needs to be made up with water, the make-up water mode is turned on. It can be understood that for the water heater, the make-up water mode is not often turned on. Optionally, the control valve module 12 can be selected as a normally closed control valve. Optionally, the check valve module 13 can be implemented by a spring + valve core, a rubber diaphragm, or a gravity type valve disc structure to prevent the water flow from flowing reversely.

[0031] In summary, in the water heater of the technical solution of the present invention, a water replenishment valve group 1 is arranged on the water replenishment pipe 4 of the heat exchanger, and the water replenishment valve group 1 includes a control valve module 12 and a one-way valve module 13. The control valve module 12 is used to control the on-off of the water replenishment pipe 4, and the one-way valve module 13 is configured to be unidirectional from the water inlet pipe 81 to the water tank 2. The control valve module 12 and the one-way valve module 13 form a double seal, which ensures that the water flow is unidirectional when the water heater is in the water replenishment mode, and blocks both forward leakage and reverse backflow in the non-water replenishment state, thereby eliminating the risk of water from the water tank 2 flowing into the water use flow path, thereby improving the reliability of the water replenishment mode of the water heater.

[0032] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment of the present application, the heat exchanger 5 is built into the water tank 2 , and the heat exchanger 5 is used for heat exchange with the water in the water tank 2 .

[0033] The water heater in this embodiment is a heat exchange electric water heater that exchanges heat in the water tank 2. The water supply pipe 4 connects the water inlet pipe 81 and the water tank 2. The water supply valve group 1 is installed on the water supply pipe 4. The water supply valve group 1 is used to open when the water tank 2 needs to be replenished with water, and close when water replenishment is not required.

[0034] See also Figures 3 to 5 In one embodiment of the present application, the heat exchanger 5 is externally disposed on the water tank 2, and the heat exchanger 5 is provided with a heat exchange channel 501 connected with the water tank 2 to form a circulation loop, and the heat exchange channel 501 is configured to exchange heat with the water flow channel 502; the water heater 100 also includes a driving component 6, and the driving component 6 is configured to drive the water in the circulation loop to circulate; one end of the water supply pipe 4 is connected to the water inlet pipe 81, and the other end is connected to the circulation loop.

[0035] The water heater in this embodiment is a heat exchange electric water heater that exchanges heat outside the water tank 2. The heat exchanger 5 is placed outside the water tank 2, so that the heat exchange channel 501 and the water tank 2 form an independent circulation loop, and the water flow channel 502 is directly connected to the water inlet pipe 81 and the water outlet pipe 82, and the water channel and the circulation loop are physically isolated to reduce the risk of cross-flow. The driving component 6 actively drives the water flow in the circulation loop to ensure efficient heat exchange between the water in the water tank 2 and the heat exchanger 5, while maintaining the pressure of the circulation loop stable to avoid reverse leakage of water flow during water replenishment due to pressure fluctuations.

[0036] It can be understood that the heat exchanger 5 is arranged outside the water tank 2. Compared with the way of placing the heat exchanger 5 inside the water tank 2, the installation position and fixing method of this heat exchanger 5 are more flexible and simple. For example, it can be arranged inside the water heater casing, such as above, below or on the side of the water tank 2, etc.; for example, it can also be arranged outside the water heater casing, such as near the casing or near the water-using terminal, etc. Thus, the installation and fixing difficulty of the heat exchanger 5 is simplified, and the assembly efficiency is improved. The specific structure of the heat exchanger 5 can be determined according to the actual situation. For example, it can be a plate heat exchanger, a shell-and-tube heat exchanger or some other types of heat exchangers, etc.

[0037] The specific installation position of the driving component 6 can be determined according to the actual situation. For example, it can be installed on the pipeline outside the water tank 2 in the circulation loop, or can be installed at the water inlet or outlet of the water tank 2. In actual application, considering the service life of the driving component 6, it can be selected to arrange the driving component 6 at the downstream position of the heat exchanger 5. In this way, the water temperature flowing through the driving component 5 is lower than the water temperature at the upstream position of the heat exchanger 5, which can avoid the damage of the high-temperature hot water before heat exchange to the driving component 6, thereby prolonging the service life of the driving component 6. Optionally, the driving component 6 can be a fixed-quota water pump structure or a variable-frequency water pump.

[0038] The make-up water pipe 4 connects the water inlet pipe 81 and the circulation loop. In the make-up water mode, the water inlet in the water inlet pipe 81 can flow through the make-up water pipe 4 to the circulation loop, and then flow back to the water tank 2 through the circulation loop to realize the function of making up water into the water tank 2. It can be understood that the specific connection position of the outlet end of the make-up water pipe 4 and the circulation loop can not be specifically limited. For example, it can be connected at a position close to the water inlet / outlet of the water tank 2 in the circulation loop, or can be connected at a position close to the heat exchanger 5 in the circulation loop, or other positions, etc.

[0039] Optionally, in order to improve user comfort, a thermostatic valve 7 can be set to connect the water inlet pipe 81 and the water outlet pipe 82 for adjusting the water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe 82.

[0040] This water heater has a water-using mode and a make-up water mode. The water-using mode is the mode when the user discharges water and uses it at the water-using terminal, and the make-up water mode is the mode when the make-up water is supplied to the water tank 2 through the make-up water pipe 4 when the water-using mode is closed.

[0041] Please refer to Figure 4, in the water usage mode, the control valve module 12 of the water replenishing valve group 1 is closed (i.e., the flow path of the water replenishing pipe 4 is blocked), the heater 3 and the driving component 6 are turned on, and the water flowing out of the water tank 2 is heated through the heat exchange flow path 501 and then flows back into the water tank 2; the water in the water inlet pipe 81 is heated through the water usage flow path 502 and then flows into the water outlet pipe 82. In this mode, the water in the circulation loop circulates under the action of the driving component 6. After the water flowing out of the water tank 2 exchanges heat with the cold water in the heat exchange flow path 501 and the water usage flow path 502, it flows back into the water tank 2. At the same time, in the water usage water path, cold water enters from the inlet end of the water inlet pipe 81, is heated into hot water in the water usage flow path 502 of the heat exchanger 5, and then flows into the water outlet pipe 82, and finally flows out from the water usage terminal for the user to use. It should be noted that the circulation loop and the water usage water path are two independent water paths, and the function of heating and using live water can be realized.

[0042] Please refer to Figure 5 , in the water replenishing mode, the outlet end of the water outlet pipe 82 is closed (i.e., the water usage terminal is closed), the control valve module 12 of the water replenishing valve group 1 is opened (i.e., the flow path of the water replenishing pipe 4 is conducted), and the water in the water inlet pipe 81 flows into the water tank 2 through the water replenishing pipe 4 and the circulation loop. In this mode, the water usage water path is in a closed state, the control valve module 12 on the water replenishing pipe 4 is opened, the water replenishing pipe 4 is in a conducted state, and the cold water entering from the inlet end of the water inlet pipe 81 will directly enter the water replenishing pipe 4 and flow into the water tank 2 through the circulation loop for water replenishing operation until the water level in the water tank 2 reaches the preset water level, and the water replenishing stops.

[0043] In practical applications, a water level sensor can be set in the water tank 2 to detect the water level in the water tank 2. This water level sensor can be electrically connected to the main control module of the water heater. When the water level is insufficient, the control valve module 12 on the water replenishing pipe 4 is controlled to open through the main control module to realize the water replenishing operation; when the water level meets the preset water level, the main control module controls the control valve module 12 on the water replenishing pipe 4 to close and stop the water replenishing.

[0044] Please refer to Figures 3 to 5 , in an embodiment of the present application, the driving component 6 is arranged on the downstream side of the heat exchange flow path 501.

[0045] With such a setting, in the water usage mode, the water in the water tank 2 sequentially passes through the heat exchange flow path 501 and the driving component 6 and then flows back into the water tank 2. After the hot water in the heat exchange flow path 501 exchanges heat with the cold water in the water usage flow path 502, the water temperature decreases. By arranging the driving component 6 on the downstream side of the heat exchange flow path 501, the water temperature flowing through the driving component 6 is lower than the water temperature at the upstream position of the heat exchange flow path 501, which can avoid damage to the driving component 6 caused by high-temperature hot water, thereby prolonging the service life of the driving component 6.

[0046] It can be understood that after the driving component 6 stops running for a period of time, a cavity may appear at its inlet end. When it is started again, an idling phenomenon may occur. Based on this, in this embodiment, the outlet end of the water replenishing pipe 4 is connected to the upstream side of the driving component 6. In the water replenishing mode, the water in the water inlet pipe 81 flows through the water replenishing pipe 4 and the driving component 6 into the water tank 2. That is, whether in the water using mode or the water replenishing mode, it can ensure that there is water flow at the inlet end of the driving component 6, thereby achieving the effect of preventing the driving component 6 from idling.

[0047] Please refer to Figures 3 to 5 , in an embodiment of the present application, the heater 3 is externally disposed on the water tank 2 and is located on the upstream side of the heat exchange flow path 501. The outlet end of the water replenishing pipe 4 is connected to the upstream side of the heater 3.

[0048] In this embodiment, the heater 3 is an external heater 3. Compared with the method of disposing the heater 3 inside the water tank 2, on the one hand, it is more convenient for installation, and on the other hand, it can make the box structure of the water tank 2 more complete without the need to open an installation opening for the heater 3, simplifying the structure of the water tank 2 and making the forming process of the water tank 2 simpler. Optionally, the heater 3 is a cast aluminum heater, and a heating flow path communicating with the circulation loop is provided inside the heater 3.

[0049] In this structure, in the water using mode, the water in the water tank 2 is heated by the heater 3 in sequence and then flows into the heat exchange flow path 501 for heat exchange with the cold water in the water using flow path 502, and then flows through the driving component 6 and returns to the water tank 2. At the same time, the water in the water tank 2 flows out and is heated by the heater 3 again, and then flows into the heat exchange flow path 501 to heat the cold water flowing in the water using flow path 502.

[0050] In the water replenishing mode, the water in the water inlet pipe 81 flows through the water replenishing pipe 4, the heater 3, the heat exchange flow path 501, and the driving component 6 into the water tank 2. It can be understood that in the water replenishing mode, the heater 3 can be turned on or off.

[0051] As an example, considering the hot water preparation efficiency, the heater 3 can be turned on in the water replenishing mode, so that in the water replenishing mode, the cold water is heated into hot water before entering the water tank 2. Through the heat preservation effect of the water tank 2, when using water again, the water flowing out of the water tank 2 has a certain temperature, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the water in the circulation loop and shortening the hot water preparation time. In some embodiments, in the water replenishing mode, the heater 3 can also be turned off. At this time, on the one hand, it can avoid heat dissipation when the water replenishing passes through the heat exchanger 5, and on the other hand, it can avoid the phenomenon of stop water temperature rise caused by the heat exchange flow path 501 heating the water in the water using flow path 502.

[0052] Please refer to Figures 3 to 5, in an embodiment of the present application, a water inlet assembly 21 and a water outlet assembly 22 are provided in the water tank 2. The water inlet assembly 21 is located in the upper region of the water tank 2, and the water outlet assembly 22 is located in the lower region of the water tank 2; the heat exchanger 5 is provided on the outer side of the water tank 2; in the height direction, the heat exchanger 5 is located between the water inlet assembly 21 and the water outlet assembly 22, the inlet end of the heat exchange flow channel 501 is located at the lower part of the heat exchanger 5, and the outlet end of the heat exchange flow channel 501 is located at the upper part of the heat exchanger 5.

[0053] With such an arrangement, the water flowing in from the water inlet assembly 21 can squeeze the water in the lower region of the water tank 2 out from the water outlet assembly 22 into the circulation loop to be heated by the heater 3, so that the water in the water tank 2 and the water in the circulation loop are forced to convect, improving the heating efficiency of the circulation water path, and further improving the heat exchange efficiency and accelerating the preparation of hot water. In addition, in this embodiment, the water outlet assembly 22 is in the lower region of the water tank 2, and the inlet end of the heat exchange flow channel 501 is in the lower position of the heat exchanger 5, effectively shortening the length of the connecting pipe section connecting the water outlet assembly 22 and the inlet end of the heat exchange flow channel 501, effectively saving the layout space; correspondingly, the water inlet assembly 21 is in the upper region of the water tank 2, and the outlet end of the heat exchange flow channel 501 is in the upper position of the heat exchanger 5, effectively shortening the length of the connecting pipe section connecting the water inlet assembly 21 and the outlet end of the heat exchange flow channel 501, effectively saving the layout space.

[0054] Please refer to Figures 6 to 10 , in an embodiment of the present application, the makeup water valve group 1 further includes a valve body 11 connected in series on the makeup water pipe 4, and both the control valve module 12 and the one-way valve module 13 are provided on the valve body 11, and the one-way valve module 13 is provided on the downstream side of the control valve module 12.

[0055] The valve body 11 functions to install each module in the makeup water valve group 1 and construct a water flow channel. Specifically, the valve body 11 can be a housing structure having a water inlet end 101, a water outlet end 102 and a flow channel cavity 103, and can be processed or molded by using metal or plastic materials. The valve body 11 can be an integrally formed structure or a split structure. Optionally, the water inlet end 101 can be set as a quick-release joint, and the water outlet end 102 can be set as a quick-release joint to facilitate the pipe connection operation.

[0056] Please refer to Figures 7 to 10, the flow channel cavity 103 includes a first flow channel 1031 and a second flow channel 1032 that are spaced apart. The first flow channel 1031 communicates with the water inlet end 101, and the second flow channel 1032 communicates with the water outlet end 102; a first valve port 104 for communicating the first flow channel 1031 and the second flow channel 1032 is provided in the valve body 11. The control valve module 12 is used to open or block the first valve port 104, and the check valve module 13 is installed in the second flow channel 1032. In this embodiment, when the control valve module 12 is opened, water flows from the water inlet end 101 into the first flow channel 1031, flows into the second flow channel 1032 through the first valve port 104. At this time, the valve core of the check valve module 13 is pushed open by the water flow pressure, allowing the water to flow toward the water outlet end 102. When the control valve module 12 is closed, the first valve port 104 is completely blocked, and a physical isolation is formed between the first flow channel 1031 and the second flow channel 1032. At this time, the check valve module 13 in the second flow channel 1032 automatically closes due to the reverse pressure, preventing the water from flowing back to the first flow channel 1031. Optionally, the first flow channel 1031 and the second flow channel 1032 can be separated by arranging a partition in the valve body 11. The first valve port 104 can be arranged on the partition, and the shape can be circular or oval.

[0057] Further, please refer to Figures 7 to 10 , the valve body 11 includes a pipe body 111 and a partition structure 112. The pipe body 111 is provided with a water inlet end 101 and a water outlet end 102, and forms a flow channel cavity 103; the partition structure 112 is arranged inside the pipe body 111 to divide the flow channel cavity 103 into a first flow channel 1031 and a second flow channel 1032; the first valve port 104 is arranged on the partition structure 112, and the control valve module 12 is installed at the part of the pipe body 111 corresponding to the partition structure 112.

[0058] In this embodiment, the pipe body 111 serves as an overall load-bearing structure, and a complete flow channel cavity 103 is formed through its water inlet end 101 and water outlet end 102, providing a basic path for the water flow. The partition structure 112 is arranged inside the pipe body 111 to divide the cavity into independent first flow channel 1031 and second flow channel 1032, thereby ensuring the functional isolation of the two flow channels. The first valve port 104 is arranged on the partition structure 112, and at the same time, the control valve module 12 is installed at the part of the pipe body 111 corresponding to the partition structure 112, so that the control valve core 122 is aligned with the first valve port 104, avoiding seal failure or abnormal water flow control caused by installation deviation, thereby improving the overall control accuracy of the water replenishing valve group 1.

[0059] It can be understood that there may be a process port 106 during the processing of the pipe body 111. In actual application, a plug 14 can be arranged at the process port 106 to ensure the sealing performance of the flow channel cavity 103 inside the pipe body 111.

[0060] Specifically, the partition structure 112 is a cylindrical structure, the inner cavity of the partition structure 112 forms a transition channel 1033, the first valve port 104 is formed at one end of the partition structure 112 and connects the first channel 1031 with the transition channel 1033, and the side wall of the partition structure 112 is provided with a water port 105 connecting the transition channel 1033 with the second channel 1032. In this embodiment, after the fluid enters the first channel 1031 from the water inlet end 101, it flows into the transition channel 1033 of the cylindrical structure through the first valve port 104, and the cylindrical inner cavity of the transition channel 1033 can rectify the fluid so that the fluid flows evenly along the axial direction, and then flows into the second channel 1032 from the water port 105 on the side wall, and then flows to the water outlet end 102 through the one-way valve module 13. The first valve port 104 is disposed at one end of the partition structure 112 and is directly connected to the transition channel 1033. Combined with the axial extension characteristics of the cylinder structure, the movement direction of the control valve core 122 of the control valve module 12 is adapted to the fluid flow direction, thereby enhancing the sealing effect.

[0061] For further information, see Figures 7 to 10 The partition structure 112 is extended in a direction forming an angle with the axial direction of the tube body 111, and the end of the partition structure 112 facing away from the first valve port 104 is connected to the inner wall surface of the tube body 111, and the end of the partition structure 112 where the first valve port 104 is set passes through the outer wall of the tube body 111; a mounting seat 1111 is provided at a position of the outer wall of the tube body 111 corresponding to the first valve port 104, and the mounting seat 1111 is provided with a mounting cavity connecting the transition flow channel 1033 and the first flow channel 1031, the control valve module 12 is installed on the mounting seat 1111 and seals the mounting cavity, and the control valve core 122 of the control valve module 12 slides in the mounting cavity to block or open the first valve port 104.

[0062] It is understandable that the angle between the extending direction of the partition structure 112 and the axial direction of the tube body 111 can be an acute angle, a right angle, or an obtuse angle. Preferably, the extending direction of the partition structure 112 is perpendicular to the axial direction of the tube body 111, and the connection structure between the partition structure 112 and the tube body 111 is more reliable by the right-angle connection. One end of the partition structure 112 is connected and fixed to the tube body 111, and the other end extends to the outer wall of the tube body 111 and communicates with the mounting cavity of the mounting seat 1111. The design of penetrating the outer wall enables the mounting seat 1111 to be directly positioned on the outside of the first valve port 104; by installing the control valve module 12 on the mounting seat 1111 and sealing the mounting cavity, the cavity wall of the mounting cavity can limit and guide the control valve core 122 of the control valve module 12, so that the control valve core 122 can be more accurately aligned with the first valve port 104, and the linear movement direction of the control valve core 122 is aligned with the axis of the first valve port 104. By moving closer to or away from the first valve port 104, the first valve port 104 can be blocked or opened. When the control valve core 122 blocks the first valve port 104, the end face of the control valve core 122 forms a surface contact seal with the edge of the valve port, further improving the on-off control stability of the flow channel cavity 103.

[0063] In addition, by directly arranging the mounting seat 1111 on the outer wall of the pipe body 111, the installation process of the control valve module 12 is simplified and the assembly efficiency is improved.

[0064] See also Figures 7 to 10 In one embodiment of the present application, the control valve module 12 is a normally closed solenoid valve; the control valve module 12 includes a control component 121 installed on the valve body 11 and a control valve core 122 driven and connected to the control component 121, and the control valve core 122 is used to block or open the flow channel cavity 103 under the drive of the control component 121.

[0065] This embodiment illustrates the structure of the control valve module 12. The control valve module 12 is a solenoid valve. After receiving an external electrical signal, the control component 121 drives the control valve core 122 to move axially along the installation cavity. When water replenishment operation is required, the control valve core 122 is completely separated from the first valve port 104, the flow channel cavity 103 is connected, and the water flows through the first flow channel 1031 into the transition flow channel 1033, and enters the second flow channel 1032 from the water port 105; when water replenishment is not required, the control valve core 122 is pressed against the first valve port 104 by the electromagnetic force to block the water flow and close the flow channel cavity 103.

[0066] In actual application, the control component 121 of the control valve module 12 can be connected to the electric control system signal of the water heater, and act according to the water replenishment instruction issued by the electric control system. Optionally, the control valve module 12 is a normally closed solenoid valve.

[0067] See also Figures 7 to 8, in an embodiment of the present application, the one-way valve module 13 includes a one-way valve seat 131, a one-way valve core 132, and an elastic member 133. The one-way valve seat 131 is sealingly disposed in the flow channel cavity 103, and the one-way valve seat 131 is provided with a second valve port 1311; the one-way valve core 132 is movably disposed in the one-way valve seat 131 for blocking or opening the second valve port 1311; the elastic member 133 connects the one-way valve seat 131 and the one-way valve core 132 to apply an elastic force for blocking the second valve port 1311 to the one-way valve core 132.

[0068] In this embodiment, when the water flow is from the water inlet end 101 to the water outlet end 102, the water pressure pushes the one-way valve core 132 to compress the elastic member 133, opens the second valve port 1311, and allows the water flow to pass through. When the water flow stops or there is a reverse flow trend, the elastic force of the elastic member 133 pushes the one-way valve core 132 to reset, blocks the second valve port 1311, and prevents reverse flow.

[0069] It can be understood that the one-way valve seat 131 is sealingly fixed in the flow channel cavity 103, which can ensure the sealed connection between the second valve port 1311 and the flow channel cavity 103 and avoid the bypass leakage of the water flow. The one-way valve core 132 can be opened under the positive water pressure and quickly reset by the elastic force of the elastic member 133 when there is reverse flow or the pressure disappears, forcibly blocking the second valve port 1311 and blocking the reverse flow. The continuously applied elastic force of the elastic member 133 not only ensures the normal sealing of the valve core when there is no water flow, but also improves the adaptability to instantaneous pressure fluctuations and avoids the sealing failure caused by external interference.

[0070] Optionally, the one-way valve seat 131 can be set as an annular structure made of metal or plastic, and the outer diameter thereof and the inner wall of the flow channel cavity 103 can achieve sealing through interference fit, for example, a rubber sealing ring is used to assist in sealing.

[0071] Optionally, the shape of the one-way valve core 132 can be designed as a conical or spherical structure.

[0072] Optionally, the elastic member 133 can be a compression spring.

[0073] Please refer to Figures 6 to 9 , in an embodiment of the present application, the valve body 11 is provided with a connecting pipe section 113 at the water inlet end 101. The connecting pipe section 113 and the water inlet end 101 form a tee structure, and both ends of the connecting pipe section 113 are docking ports.

[0074] With such a design, the first pair of interfaces 1131 and the second pair of interfaces 1132 of the connecting pipe section 113 can be connected in series in the water inlet pipe 81. At this time, the connecting pipe section 113 forms a part of the water inlet pipe 81 path, and the first flow channel 1031 of the valve body 11 forms a bypass branch pipeline of the water inlet pipe 81 path. Thus, the makeup water valve group 1 can be integrated with the water inlet pipe 81. Compared with the method of separately arranging pipelines, the structural compactness is improved, and at the same time, the pipe connection operation is simplified.

[0075] The above are only the preferred embodiments of the present invention, and do not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structural transformation made under the inventive concept of the present invention by using the content of the specification and drawings of the present invention, or directly / indirectly applied in other related technical fields, is included in the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A water heater, characterized in that, Comprising: A water tank; A heater for heating the water in the water tank; A heat exchanger having a water flow channel for heat exchange with the water in the water tank, an inlet end of the water flow channel being connected to a water inlet pipe, and an outlet end of the water flow channel being configured to be connected to a water outlet pipe; A make-up water pipe configured to connect the water inlet pipe and the water tank for making up water to the water tank; and A make-up water valve group installed on the make-up water pipe, the make-up water valve group including a control valve module and a check valve module, the control valve module being used to control the on-off of the make-up water pipe, and the check valve module being configured to conduct unidirectionally from the water inlet pipe to the water tank.

2. The water heater according to claim 1, wherein, The heat exchanger is externally disposed with respect to the water tank, and the heat exchanger is provided with a heat exchange flow channel communicating with the water tank to form a circulation loop, the heat exchange flow channel being configured to exchange heat with the water flow channel; The water heater further includes a driving component configured to drive the water in the circulation loop to circulate; One end of the make-up water pipe is connected to the water inlet pipe, and the other end is connected to the circulation loop.

3. The water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water heater has a water use mode and a make-up water mode: In the water use mode, the control valve module is closed, the heater and the driving component are turned on, the water flowing out of the water tank is heat-exchanged through the heat exchange flow channel and then flows back into the water tank; the water in the water inlet pipe is heat-exchanged through the water flow channel and then flows into the water outlet pipe; In the make-up water mode, the outlet end of the water outlet pipe is closed, the control valve module is opened, and the water in the water inlet pipe flows into the water tank through the make-up water pipe and the circulation loop.

4. The water heater according to claim 3, wherein, The driving component is disposed on the downstream side of the heat exchange flow channel, and the outlet end of the make-up water pipe is connected to the upstream side of the driving component; In the water use mode, the water in the water tank sequentially passes through the heat exchange flow channel and the driving component and then flows back into the water tank; In the make-up water mode, the water in the water inlet pipe flows into the water tank through the make-up water pipe and the driving component.

5. The water heater according to claim 4, characterized in that The heater is externally disposed with respect to the water tank and is located on the upstream side of the heat exchange flow channel, and the outlet end of the make-up water pipe is connected to the upstream side of the heater; In the water use mode, the water in the water tank sequentially passes through the heater, the heat exchange flow channel, and the driving component and then flows back into the water tank; In the make-up water mode, the water in the water inlet pipe flows into the water tank through the make-up water pipe, the heater, the heat exchange flow channel, and the driving component.

6. The water heater according to claim 5, characterized in that, In the make-up water mode, the heater is turned on.

7. The water heater according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, An inlet component and an outlet component are provided in the water tank, the inlet component is located in the upper region of the water tank, and the outlet component is located in the lower region of the water tank; The heat exchanger is disposed on the outer side of the water tank; in the height direction, the heat exchanger is located between the inlet component and the outlet component, the inlet end of the heat exchange flow channel is located at the lower part of the heat exchanger, and the outlet end of the heat exchange flow channel is located at the upper part of the heat exchanger.

8. The water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The make-up water valve group further includes a valve body connected in series on the make-up water pipe, the control valve module and the check valve module are both disposed on the valve body, wherein the check valve module is disposed on the downstream side of the control valve module.

9. The water heater according to claim 8, characterized in that, The valve body includes: A pipe body, provided with a water inlet end, a water outlet end, and a flow channel cavity connecting the water inlet end and the water outlet end; and A partition structure is a cylindrical structure disposed in the pipe body, and divides the flow channel cavity into a first flow channel, a transition flow channel and a second flow channel; a first valve port connecting the first flow channel and the transition flow channel is disposed at an end of the partition structure, and a water outlet connecting the transition flow channel and the second flow channel is disposed on a side wall of the partition structure; The control valve module is installed on the pipe body and is used to open or block the first valve port. The one-way valve module is installed in the second flow channel.

10. The water heater according to claim 9, characterized in that, The partition structure is extended in a direction forming an angle with the axial direction of the tube body, one end of the partition structure away from the first valve port is connected to the inner wall surface of the tube body, and one end of the partition structure where the first valve port is arranged passes through the outer wall of the tube body; A mounting seat is provided at a position of the outer wall of the tube body corresponding to the first valve port, and the mounting seat is provided with a mounting cavity connecting the transition flow channel and the first flow channel. The control valve module is installed on the mounting seat and seals the mounting cavity. The control valve core of the control valve module slides in the mounting cavity to block or open the first valve port.

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